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Volume 12
Number 2
Inflow/Infiltration Spring 1998
A Growing Problem among America’s Sewered Communities
Small Flows
by Jeremy Canody Over time, the presence of this the system becomes overloaded cracks in underground pipes
Small Flows Editor excess groundwater and and can cause street mains to burst, caused by shifted joints due to
stormwater runoff in wastewater basements to flood, sewer back- aging or tree roots that have pen-
As many of the nation’s sewer collection systems increases opera- ups, and reduced treatment efficiency. etrated it.
systems begin to show signs of tion and treatment costs, causes
deterioration caused by aging, surcharging and overflows, and Inflow is unwanted and excessive I/I is the combined volume of
inadequate system design, poor can present a significant health stormwater that directly enters the inflow and infiltration water found
construction or location, and high threat to humans. sewer system. This inflow can in sewer systems.
levels of precipitation, managing a come from roof drains that directly
safe and effective wastewater Cracks and broken joints in sewer flow into the sewer, catch basins of Causes of I/I
collection and treatment system is lines also allow the inflow and street gutters, commercial and In general, levels of I/I vary de-
becoming a significant challenge infiltration (I/I) of untreated waste- industrial discharges, and low pending on location, age, and
for small cities and towns across water to pass by, spill, and/or di- backyards drained through direct structural integrity of a system. In
the country. rectly enter into vital groundwater connection to the sanitary sewer the long run, identifying the causes
and drinking water supplies. pipe below the yard. of I/I as they happen or preventing
Deterioration factors, such as those problems before they happen will
mentioned above, allow excess What is I/I? Infiltration is the unwanted greatly reduce costs to the commu-
stormwater and groundwater to A sanitary sewer system is de- groundwater and stormwater that nity, the environment, and to indi-
enter sewer systems causing them signed to handle the steady flow indirectly enters a sanitary sewer vidual customers.
to exceed their maximum flow of wastewater coming from system through foundation drains,
capacities and preventing them sources such as homes, commer- defective joints, uncovered man- Infiltration generally occurs as a
from performing the task they cial buildings, industries, schools, holes, broken or cracked pipes and result of poor soil conditions, poor
were designed for—the safe col- and hospitals. When hydraulic manholes, or faulty sewer line construction workmanship, or low
lection and transportation of waste- flows increase in a sanitary sewer connections. For example, ground-
water to a treatment plant. system, due to heavy precipitation, water can enter a system through Continued on page 2
Restaurants and Commercial Facilities Present Specific Problems
for Onsite Sytems
by Natalie Eddy suspended solids) also have been Puyallup, Washington. “Primarily, Important Design Concerns
NSFC Staff Writer identified as major problems in it’s the flow coming from the Ted Walker, senior environmental
treating restaurant wastewater in kitchen or food processing area health specialist for the Sonoma
Editor’s Note: The following ar- both septic tank systems and con- that causes the high BOD, grease, County, California, Permit Re-
ticle is intended to provide a non- ventional collection and treatment and oil. In a typical residence, the source Management Department,
technical overview of how com- systems. kitchen may contribute only 10 agrees that treating restaurant and
mercial businesses are attempting percent of the total waste flow. In a other commercial waste streams
to control grease and oil before The trouble arises when the grease restaurant or supermarket, the food can be a very tricky business.
they become a problem for onsite and oil reach the soil absorption preparation area may constitute 40
wastewater disposal systems. In field or sewer lines, cooling and to 90 percent of the waste flow,” “They are the hardest systems to
this case, the article discusses solidifying to form a thin layer on said Garrison. design and maintain for a variety
how restaurants and other commer- the soil distribution system and in of reasons. You need to know
cial facilities can prevent grease the sewer lines. “This increase in biological load exactly what factors you’re dealing
from clogging an onsite system’s and solids, coupled with higher with when properly designing this
leachfield by using grease traps. It is a common problem, according temperatures and higher flows, is type of system,” he said.
More detailed articles on commer- to Carl Garrison, staff engineer of more than most biological treatment
cial waste and onsite treatment NCS (Northwest Cascade-Stuth, and disposal systems can handle.” William Stuth, a developer of onsite
will appear in upcoming issues. Inc.) Wastewater Solutions in wastewater pre-treatment systems,
outlines some design considerations
Restaurants and other small com- in a 1992 paper he presented at the
mercial businesses are popping University of Washington Wastewater
up all over the country. While this Treatment Course and Exhibition.
widespread boom may be good
for the economy, it also can Some of those design concerns
present problems for the environ- include:
ment if proper steps are not taken
to ensure reliable onsite wastewa- • Number of Days: Seating
ter disposal. capacity, and hours of business
operation. This helps deter-
Most wastewater professionals mine the type of business done L SMALL
NA
FL
today would agree that grease and at the restaurant and when the
O
OW
NAT I
oil—natural byproducts from peak flows occur.
S
cooking and food processing in
E
CL
EA
S
restaurants, delis, grocery stores, • Flow Gallons Per Day (gpd): R IN GHOU
and other small commercial facili- Includes average gpd, peak flow
ties—are the most common prob- (within a two to four hour Helping
This watertight effluent filter tank has metal lids that allow for easy access
lems in treating restaurant waste- period), and percentage of America’s small
to monitor and service 12 filters used to treat effluent coming from a com-
water. High BOD (biochemical communities meet
mercial grease trap.
oxygen demand) and TSS (total Continued on page 4 their wastewater
needs
SMALL FLOWS-Spring 1998; Vol.12, No. 2 1
Inflow/Infiltration
A Growing Problem among America’s Sewered Communities
Continued from page 1 According to the U.S. Environ-
mental Protection Agency’s Office
quality building materials. Any of of Research and Development, the
these reasons can cause sewer lines effects of I/I can cause the following:
to crack or shift, causing unwanted
water to infiltrate a sanitary sewer • the utilization of sewer facility
system. Other causes of infiltration capacity that would otherwise
include high groundwater levels; be reserved for present sanitary
poor condition of pipes, joints, and wastewater flows and future
connecting sewer lines; precipitation growth;
and percolation of surface waters; • the need for construction of
and water retention in the soil. relief sewer facilities before
originally scheduled dates;
Although excessive stormwater • backflooding of sewers into
flows tend to be the most common streets and private properties;
cause of sewer inflow, they are not • hydraulic overload of the treat-
the only cause. ment plant and the potential
“washout” of treatment processes;
Excessive base flows (flows from • increased run time for pumps
The public needs notification prior to smoke testing. As seen here, smoke
residential, commercial, and indus- and pump stations;
I/I prevention
will surface from structural openings including basements, gutters, and
trial sources that are supposed to • additional costs for repair, stormwater vents. Photo: West Virginia Rural Water Association
be collected by the sewer system) replacement, recovery, energy,
are another contributing factor to and supplies; and including treatment plant operators, Extremely critical to this fact-
unwanted wastewater inflows. • environmental health effects. sewer maintenance personnel, finding process is the use of sewer
Commonly, the largest generators community government officials, maps—all sewer maps that have
of excessive base flows are a The presence of any one or all of local engineers, local contractors, ever been on file in the community.
community’s residential areas. these problems not only affects a local industry, homeowners, and Sewer maps can provide informa-
system’s collection and treatment sewer industry representatives. tion on new construction, additions
A sewer’s base flow can significantly facilities, it also affects the cus- that have been made in the past,
increase if the community it serves tomers that use the system. In For example, maintenance person- types of joints, buried manholes,
has homes with leaky fixtures, addition to basement overflows nel should be asked about the the location of treatment plants and
faucets, and toilets, as well as and yard flooding caused by I/I, current condition of the sewer and pumping stations, types of bedding,
conventional fixtures such as six- increased costs at the treatment about any additions or changes that groundwater elevations, and over-
gallon-per-flush toilets and high- facility will eventually mean higher have been made to the sewer sys- flow and bypass points. Essen-
volume shower heads. service charges to the customer. tem in the past; local contractors tially, many places that can be a
should be asked about soil and potential source of I/I can be found
A leaking toilet can add approxi- Determining the Problem groundwater conditions and instal- on these maps.
mately 750 additional gallons of The only way to determine if an lation practices that may contribute
wastewater to a collection system I/I problem exists—besides the to an I/I problem; homeowners Finding the I/I Problem
each month. A leaking faucet can obvious signs like basement flood- should be asked about frequent A sewer system evaluation survey
add an additional 300 gallons per ing, sewer overflows, and treatment basement flooding, ponding in (SSES) is helpful in quantifying
month. plant bypassing—is to perform a their backyards, and if their roof the total amount of I/I that can be
system-wide inventory. The leaders are connected to the sewer reduced and the cost of such reduc-
Installing water-saving fixtures correction of an I/I problem system; and wastewater treatment tion on a source-by-source basis.
and low-flush toilets (those that requires a systematic approach, plant operators should be asked if
use less than 3.5 gallons per flush) and information must be collected, treatment is bypassed during wet In order to precisely detect a sani-
can drastically reduce the amount identified, and assessed so that a weather conditions or if heavy base tary sewer I/I problem satisfacto-
of unnecessary wastewater on a plan of action to correct the prob- flows are putting a strain on the rily and economically, excessive
community-wide basis. lem can be developed. overall treatment process. baseflow and I/I flows should be
calculated separately to determine
For example, a community of A community suspecting an I/I The purpose of the interviews is to the individual costs associated with
10,000 will see a reduction of problem must first define its prob- gather as much information about the removal and reduction of each.
315,000 gallons of wastewater a day lem as clearly as possible before that particular sewer system as
if it simply uses low-flush toilets. taking action to correct it. Many possible. As a result of the inter- When estimating the location,
Therefore, it is both beneficial and communities hire a consultant to views, answers should be provided severity, and source of the I/I prob-
cost-effective for the community and do this for them; however, a small concerning the seriousness of the lem, monitoring the flow over a
the public to conserve water. community concerned about the I/I problem, the locations of prob- period of time and in a variety of
high costs of hiring a consultant lem areas, what can be done to conditions will be helpful in deter-
Problems Caused by I/I may want to correct the problem correct the problems, and how to mining the actual relative contribu-
Some problems caused by I/I have on its own. To do this, community prevent future problems once the I/ tions of each I/I source.
already been mentioned (basement leaders must ask questions. I/I I problem is corrected.
flooding, surcharging, sewer over- problems are corrected through One of the more basic and less
flows, and bypasses); however, on communication, compromise, and Information also should be gath- expensive methods for detecting an
a much larger scale, I/I is not only the application of the appropriate ered on local soils, rainfall I/I problem is visually checking
a major deterrent to the successful technology. amounts, base flow amounts, local manholes, as well as connections
performance of a sewer system, industry water usage and dis- and joints along the sewer lines.
but it can also adversely affect a When asking questions, the person charges, and areas commonly This method can also be extremely
community’s environment and the or people in charge should interview flooding in the community. dangerous if a person does not
overall quality of water resources. those who are most familiar with know what he is doing (see related
the community’s sewer system
Continued on next page
2 SMALL FLOWS-Spring 1998; Vol.12, No. 2
Continued from previous page Smoke Testing and building vents, dry traps, de- Smaller communities that do not
Smoke testing is an easy and rela- fective toilet wax rings, or missing own their own equipment gener-
article on confined space safety tively inexpensive way to locate I/I sewer clean-out plugs. Smoke seen ally opt to contract with a profes-
beginning on page 6). problems, particularly near the coming from building sewer vents sional. Depending on the type of
surface. Some of the specific probably indicates no problem. sewer system, a contractor can
When performing a visual manhole sources detected by smoke testing Smoke observed from other inspect approximately 700 to 2,000
and pipeline inspection, timing is include yard and area drain con- sources, as well as vents, may feet of sewer line per day. A pro-
everything. Observations for infil- nections, ponding areas, roof lead- indicate a potential source of I/I. fessional may be more thorough
tration should be made only during ers, faulty service connections, Any location where smoke is seen than community personnel and will
periods of high groundwater, and catch basins, and laterals. This test should be recorded for further often provide a video copy and log
accurate inflow observations can also helps to detect illegal storm evaluation. describing his or her observations.
only be made during times of drain connections, which are con-
heavy rainfall. Therefore, when sidered to be major contributors of Dye Testing Where To Go for Help
checking for infiltration sources, inflow problems. Dye testing is particularly helpful Determining how to correct an I/I
observations should not be made when detecting storm drains and problem will essentially depend on
for at least 24 hours after a rain- The smoke test works by forcing storm sewer sources, as well as the frequency of I/I, type of I/I
storm or when it has been dry for smoke from a smoke bomb inflow sources from private prop- problem, and the location of the
at least 24 hours prior to making through an isolated section of erty. This type of test is beneficial problem.
the observations. This minimizes sewer pipe using an air blower in helping to verify findings that
the direct influence of rainfall. positioned over a manhole. The other tests may have identified. There are a variety of organiza-
idea is that if there are defects tions available to assist communi-
On the other hand, inflow inspec- along the sewer lines or pipe con- All that is needed to perform dye ties in all phases of finding, assess-
tions should be made when it is nections the smoke will surface at testing, otherwise known as dye ing, and correcting an I/I problem.
raining and at a time of day when these points. water flooding, is a source of wa- For example, communities wanting
commercial, residential, and indus- ter, sewer pipe plugs, and the dye. to perform a smoke test to determine
trial flows are at a minimum— Smoke seen coming from building Only biodegradable and environ- if they have cracks or defective
generally late at night or early in sewer vents usually indicates no mentally friendly dye should be joints in their sewer lines can con-
the morning. problem. However, smoke coming used and it should be brightly tact their state Rural Water Asso-
from other sources may indicate a colored so that it is easily detected. ciation (RWA) for advice on where
A follow-up flow inspection potential source of I/I. Any loca- to purchase or rent the equipment
should then be administered when tion where smoke is seen should be There are various procedures for needed.
flows are normal in order to detect recorded for further evaluation to testing with dye, depending largely
any inconsistencies. determine if it is indeed a potential on the source being tested. RWAs, state Departments of Envi-
ronmental Protection (DEP), and
For example, to dye test a manhole other agencies that regulate pub-
for suspected defects, simply flood licly owned treatment works are
the area close to the manhole with good starting contacts for commu-
dyed water and then check for nities that suspect an I/I problem
seepage along the inside of the and want to do something about it.
manhole walls. Various other
methods are used when dye testing These organizations offer services
storm sewer sections, streams, such as technical assistance, equip-
ditches, ponding areas, roof lead- ment rentals, contractor referrals,
ers, and cellars. and literature. Some state agencies
assist with onsite inspections.
Television Inspection
Perhaps the best way to take the To obtain contact information for
guesswork out of checking for I/I your state, call National Small
problems in a sewer line is to do a Flows Clearinghouse (NSFC)
closed-circuit television inspection. Information Assistant Crystal
Stevens at (800) 624-8301 or (304)
This type of inspection is generally 293-4191, ext. 5550.
When smoke testing, smoke emerging from the ground is usually a
the most accurate for locating pipe
certain sign of an I/I problem below the surface. Photo courtesy of the West
or joint separations, root intrusion, For more information on finding,
Virginia Rural Water Association.
protruding or defective lateral correcting, and preventing I/I,
This type of inspection involves source of I/I. The test should only connections, corrosion, improper contact the NSFC and request Item
several people, good communica- be done during calm, dry weather pipe alignment, and illegal storm # WWBLGN31, Inflow/Infiltration:
tion equipment, and adequate conditions because rain, snow, and water connections. A Guide for Decision Makers. This
lighting. In addition, all workers windy conditions could provide publication is particularly helpful
need to use safety equipment (hard false conclusions. A growing number of communities for small communities dealing with
hats, ventilators, gas detectors) and of all sizes are purchasing their I/I problems. The cost is $6.05 plus
exercise safety precautions at all Prior to smoke testing, advanced own television equipment to locate shipping. Also request Item
times. notification must be given to the I/I problems and to continue moni- #WWBKDM67, Sewer System
public about the test and any ac- toring their lines once the prob- Infrastructure Analysis and Reha-
After areas with I/I problems have tions they should take prior to or lems are corrected. However, bilitation. This book is free. Ship-
been detected through a visual during testing. many communities rent television ping charges do apply.
inspection, the next step of an equipment while others contract
SSES is to verify the findings Smoke from the test could enter with professionals to perform the
using smoke testing, dye testing, buildings and homes through de- inspection for them.
or television inspection equipment. fective joints in the sewer system
SMALL FLOWS-Spring 1998; Vol.12, No. 2 3
Restaurants and Commercial Facilities Present Specific Problems For Onsite Systems
Continued from page 1 Many Factors Play A Role system. “The existing septic tanks ties of a business. “Someone may
Walker noted that in addition to were under capacity and the grease have a nice old house they decide
graywater versus blackwater. the technical design concerns, it is traps, which were small, had been to turn into a bed and breakfast inn
These helpto determine the size necessary to pay attention to other full for years, with grease over- or small winery and start serving
of the system; peak flows (when human-related factors. flowing and plugging the entire guests. The current wastewater
they occur and their duration) existing leachfield,” he said. system may be sufficient for that.
can affect the system design/size. He said a common problem with But then they may want to hold
onsite systems is the high turnover “We ended up replacing and weddings on the weekends or add
• BOD (five day test): This deter-
in a facility from one type of busi- redesigning the septic tanks, grease wine tasting or process winery
mines the organic loading rate
ness to another. traps, and sump pump (alternating waste,” Walker added.
placed on the system and the
dosing wastewater into three
type of treatment necessary to
“A system may be set up for a separate pressure distribution “At that point, the waste flows and
remove the BOD.
certain type of restaurant, like a leachfields). We also designed an wastewater strength can skyrocket.
• Oil and grease: High amounts small coffee shop, and then be sold effluent filter tank to slow the flow Essentially, a caterer comes in and
of oil and grease can harm the to a fast food chain,” said Walker. of the graywater coming from the turns a residential kitchen into a
system and need to be removed “The difference in waste strength laundry service, pot and pan sinks, commercial kitchen, and a house
prior to treatment. and flow can be immense, and the high temperature-high volume becomes a moderate sized winery.”
type of onsite system to handle the dishwasher, floor sinks, floor
• Temperature: Grease and flow may need to be changed. It’s drains, and the maintenance sec- Sometimes the answer to a system
grease traps are sensitive to difficult for regulatory agencies to tion mop and bucket sinks.” problem can be a little more cryp-
temperature. Above 57 degrees get a hold on the problem because tic. An example of how one small
F grease will not solidify and turnover in these types of businesses Walker noted that the new system factor can change the performance
separate from the waste stream. may be so rapid.” was designed with three, 950 lineal of a system is illustrated in the
In certain cases, some soaps feet drainfields, low-flow toilets, March/April 1991 issue of the
may emulsify grease and oils, He added that sometimes businesses low-flow washing machines, and Journal of Environmental Health.
causing them to carry passed the become successful and grow and aerators and flow restrictors on all
grease traps. that increased peak flow is another water faucets. It also contained a In an article titled “The Effect of
factor that may require a business ventilation tube on the grease trap Restaurant Wastes on a Small Sys-
• TSS: High levels of solids can to enlarge its onsite system. to let hot air escape in order to cool tem,” author James W. Farr recounts
clog a drainfield or sand filter or the graywater and provide easy an incident that occurred while he
hinder disinfection and need to “Restaurants that use commercial access to the effluent filter chamber. was a sanitarian with a county health
be removed prior to final treat dishwashers can discharge a lot department on Long Island.
ment or disposal. of waste,” he said. “We had one “As a result, the temperature of the
business that started with a design graywater wastewater flow low- He describes a small treatment
Grease Traps Help Process peak flow of 3,000 gpd. When we ered from 97 degrees Farenheight system consisting of five septic
The best way to avoid problems tested the water flow later, we to less than 57 degrees F through tanks connected to a dosing chamber
with grease and oil is to prevent found that it was closer to 12,000 the new large grease trap and efflu- and sand filter bed.
them from getting into the system, gallons per day (gpd). We had to ent filter chamber,” Walker added.
according to Walker. go back and completely redesign The filtered sewage was collected
the system for them.” “I am proud to say that the facility at the bottom of the bed with lines
To help separate the grease and oil is doing fine, the new septic system that carried the filtrate to a concrete
in commercial waste, Walker said Adjusting to Change is working beautifully, and the contact chamber. Here hypochlo-
properly sized and maintained Walker cited a convalescent hospi- staff operating it is well trained rite was added with the use of a
grease traps or grease interceptors tal in a neighboring county as a and manages the system very well.” small pump and the effluent was
are necessary. good example of how facilities gravity-fed to an open body of
change over time. “The hospital Education Prevents Problems water. The receiving water was an
“Most of the restaurants and com- had exceeded its original wastewa- Because of all the factors involved active shell fishing area. The aver-
mercial facilities in our county ter flow production from when it in designing systems and the age flow of the plant was about
have grease traps,” said Walker. first opened in 1977 from 4,000 nature of the business world, the 3,000 gpd.
“There is no such thing as too big a gallons per day to a measured flow wastewater industry is increasingly
grease trap. We like to put our of 12,586 gallons per day. It had finding education and regulation BOD and TSS removal for the
grease traps outside the facility and increased from 26 to 50 beds,” compliance to be important ele- plant was historically excellent. On
have the dishwasher, pots and pans Walker said. ments in meeting the demands for the average the plant had an efflu-
sinks, floor drains, and floor sinks proper restaurant onsite disposal. ent BOD of 2.0 milligrams per liter
all go into the grease trap or a “The food service had doubled its (mg/l) and TSS of 5.0 mg/l or less.
series of grease traps, and then tie production of full-service meals Walker believes education and However, in June 1987, a regular
back into an effluent filter cham- into a three-meal, two-snack per attention to detail play large roles monitoring of the plant picked up
ber, then go into a drainfield.” patient kitchen. And the hospital in keeping systems functioning unusually high coliform levels. A
had installed a large, high-tem- properly. special sampling was done. Levels
“We have a very experienced con- perature rinse dishwasher with a of BOD and TSS had increased
tractor who maintains a large fam- large garbage disposal unit to keep “Trouble can arise from inexperi- significantly, and a build-up of
ily camp in the Redwoods,” said up with the kitchen needs. In enced, uneducated business owners yellowish grease-like material
Walker. “In the past, he has had addition, staff had doubled and an or employees,” said Walker. “You appeared in the contact chamber.
nothing but trouble, having to onsite laundry facility had been might have a 16-year-old kid not
replace the system very often. The added.” properly trained working at a fast Further tests showed that better
wastewater stayed hot, and the food restaurant who dumps a treatment was occurring directly
grease never solidified. Walker said his investigation re- bucket of grease down the drain. after the septic tanks than after the
vealed a hazardous situation with That could clog up the entire system.” filter, and that the filter was actu-
He put in a series of grease traps raw sewage surfacing on the ally adding BOD to the system.
with vents allowing the steam and ground everywhere. Employees Walker stressed that it is important
heat to escape to help the grease were flushing plastic gloves, to keep track of the special activi-
cool. That solved his problem.” needles, and syringes into the Continued on next page
4 SMALL FLOWS-Spring 1998; Vol.12, No. 2
Continued from previous page a pretty good track record. With
our planning agency, permits are Transmission lines
The restaurant manager was con- required to effectively manage and coming from a com-
tacted, and after some investiga- control restaurants and commercial mercial effluent filter
tion, it was determined that he had facilities.” use a sump pump to
switched detergents in the kitchen. distribute "grease
The solution to the problem was Walker said his department has free" effluent to
simple—switch back to a less permits that require restaurant each leachfield line
alkaline soap. owners to monitor all waste flows. equally.
The department also requires envi-
Regulations Keep Systems ronmental impact studies on large
Working projected operations.
As an environmental health spe-
cialist with the Sonoma County He added that sand filter and mound
health department, Walker is fa- systems have to be watched very
miliar with the problems involved closely because the wastewater may
in permitting restaurant systems. need to be pretreated before going
into the filters to avoid clogging.
Approximately 35 percent of the
475,000 county residents are In Sonoma County, operational
served by onsite systems. Included permits must be secured by owners
in that onsite treatment category for all innovative systems, such as
are approximately 300 to 350 mound systems or sand filters.
restaurants and commercial facilities. Operators are required to monitor
their systems and report routinely
“In Sonoma County, with educa- to the county on their operation. Sonoma County has a very high inspected every other month, and
tion and experience we have fixed “That gives us ultimate control,” voluntary compliance response. He every month for larger restaurants.
most of our onsite problems. As said Walker. added, “Everyone we have ever
regulators and designers we are written up has eventually complied For information on treating restau-
very heavy handed on our restau- If owners do not comply with and fixed their system.” rant waste or to obtain copies of
rants. We have stricter controls permit restrictions, a permit can be articles listed in this story, contact
over restaurants now than we did revoked and the business shut down. The department also charges a fee the National Small Flows Clearing-
more than 10 years ago,” said for operational permits to cover the house at (800) 624-8301 or (304)
Walker. “We want to know their “The operational permit process of cost of running the program. 293-4191 and request "The Effect of
hours of operation, exactly what self-monitoring/reporting to the Classes are offered to help innova- Restaurant Waste on a Small Sys-
goes down into the tank, peak flow county and occasional inspections tive system owners and the com- tem" Item #L002751 and "Treating
amounts, the wastewater strength, etc.” from our agency have been very munity learn about the proper way Commerical High-Strength Waste"
useful in educating the operator in to run their systems. Item #L003176. The costs are $0.15
He added that even with “mom and properly maintaining his/her per page, plus shipping. You may
pop” restaurants you have to take wastewater system,” said Walker. also contact Garrison at (206)
the time to analyze what is in the Walker said on average a restau- 848-2545 or Walker at (707) 527-
waste stream. “You have to look at “If a problem is found, a notice is rant should inspect its septic tanks 1695.
both the flows and the strength of sent directing correction, giving twice a year for sludge on the
the flows,” he added. “The prob- the owner time to fix the problem. bottom. He recommends pumping
lem is with all the various restau- Then the permit is revoked if the the tank every two years. In addi-
rants, that takes time. But, we have problem goes unaddressed.” tion, he said, grease traps should be
Operator Pollution Prevention Training Module Is Available
A training module designed to “We want to make wastewater “It’s a way for them to look at it discussions of pretreatment issues,
educate wastewater treatment plant plant operators aware that there is and say, ‘Gee, the folks up stream waste reduction, and information
operators about pretreatment and no way to totally control or influ- do prevent pollution. Maybe I can about costs and benefits of different
pollution prevention is available ence internal processes until you get control over my treatment end.’” pollution prevention technologies.
from the Michigan Department of control what is coming in,” he
Environmental Quality (MDEQ). said. “We hope they will be advo- Jackson said it is common for
Industrial waste topics discussed
cates in their communities. We’re industries to invest a lot of money
include auto repair, pulp and paper,
The module focuses on Great telling operators that if they con- into their plant process but neglect
paint, dry cleaning and laundry
Lakes pollutants but can be applied trol what’s coming into their sys- to put much into expanding a treat-
plants, utilities, hospitals, and elec-
across the board to any municipal tems, they have some way to aid in ment system.
troplating.
or industrial wastewater treatment maintaining the water quality of
plant, according to Robert Jackson, the area.” “This is a teaching opportunity,”
The manual may be downloaded
MDEQ chief of technical support. said Jackson. “It’s a time for the
from the MDEQ home page at http://
Jackson added that industrial treat- operator to work with engineers
www.deq.state.mi.us/ead/potw. For
MDEQ developed the materials ment operators could benefit from and process people to encourage
additional information, contact Jack-
with a grant from the U.S. Envi- the training module as well. “For them to consider pollution preven-
son at (517) 373-2731 or in Michi-
ronmental Protection Agency’s example, an industrial operator tion technology and the benefits of
gan call (800) 662-9278.
Great Lakes National Program could benefit from information in industrial pretreatment.”
Office. “Our intent was to provide the module about meeting the
a basic understanding of pollution permit requirements that are neces- Topics in the module include case
prevention and how that informa- sary to hook into a municipality’s study discussions such as setting
tion can be integrated into a com- sewer system,” he said. up a pollution prevention program,
prehensive program,” said Jackson.
SMALL FLOWS-Spring 1998; Vol.12, No. 2 5
Staying Out of a Jam
Confined Spaces Require Safety Measures
by Kathy Jesperson hole. Several more unsuccessful Cathy S. Dixon, communications place inside the space, and possible
NSFC Contributing Writer attempts delayed the notification of specialist for Operations Forum in effects of the external environment.
the fire department for approxi- the September 1994 article, “The
In 19th century London, “doors mately 20 minutes. The victim was Ins and Outs of Confined Spaces.” How does it affect workers?
and windows of homes and facto- eventually transported to a local “Since deaths in confined spaces
ries were sealed shut at sunset to hospital, where he was pronounced Dixon further stated that a facility often occur because the atmosphere
protect occupants from entry of the dead on arrival. requiring employees to enter con- is oxygen-deficient or toxic, con-
feared ‘night air,’” wrote Mary fined spaces must have a confined fined spaces should be tested prior
Gayman in her article for Cleaner Had these workers had proper train- space safety program that includes: to entry and continually moni-
magazine, “A Glimpse Into ing, such as testing the atmosphere tored,” said the NIOSH publica-
London’s Early Sewers.” and then ventilating the sewer vault, • a written plan, tion. Two things make an atmo-
this fatal accident could have been • documentation of confined sphere flammable:
“Entire families and crews of avoided. When the atmosphere was spaces,
workers died of mysterious ‘as- eventually tested, it was found to • a permit system, • the amount of oxygen in the air,
phyxiation’ during the night. Doc- contain 20 percent methane and six • atmospheric monitoring, and
tors had no explanation for linger- percent oxygen. • warning signs, • a flammable gas, vapor, or dust
ing illnesses and these sudden • employee training, in the proper mixture.
‘miasmas’ occurring in the city. But sewers are not the only places • protective equipment, and
Vivid descriptions of horrible where toxic or explosive gases can • an emergency response plan. Different gases have different flam-
deaths were routinely reported at accumulate. NIOSH noted that mable ranges. If a source of
commission hearings and in the hydrogen sulfide and methane gases What makes it dangerous? ignition—such as a spark or electri-
London tabloids,” Gayman wrote. can be generated in a septic tank. OSHA noted that this permit sys- cal tool—is introduced into a space
These gases are extremely danger- tem is important to employees who containing a flammable atmo-
“Most fatalities and injuries de- ous—breathing hydrogen sulfide work in confined spaces because sphere, an explosion may result.
scribed were consistent with as- fumes can cause immediate death. they risk exposure to serious haz-
phyxiation by hydrogen sulfide, ards. In some cases, confinement An oxygen-enriched atmosphere
oxygen deficiency, or methane Because of this danger, never lean poses entrapment hazards or keeps (above 21 percent) will cause
explosions. These conditions re- into or enter a septic tank, particu- employees closer to other hazards, flammable materials, such as
main common in sewers, septic larly during pumping. Further, such as asphyxiating atmospheres clothing and hair, to burn violently
tanks, and confined spaces today,” methane is explosive, so do not use or moving machine parts. Failure when ignited. Therefore, never use
she continued. torches or anything flammable to take proper precautions for pure oxygen to ventilate a confined
near the opening of a septic tank. permit space entry operations has space. Ventilate with normal air.
If your job takes you into places resulted in an increasing number of
such as a pipeline, pumping sta- What is a confined space? fatalities. On the other hand, an oxygen-
tion, septic tank, sewage digester, Because working in confined deficient atmosphere should not be
sewer, storage tank, or similar type spaces can be hazardous to the In addition, OSHA stated that entered without a self-contained
enclosure, you may work in a health or life of the employees who confined spaces, by their very breathing apparatus SCBA. The
confined space. And working in must enter and work in them, the nature and configuration, are dan- oxygen level in a confined space
these areas can be dangerous or Occupational Safety and Health gerous to life and health. “Many can decrease because of work
even fatal if proper precautions are Administration (OSHA) released confined spaces are poorly venti- being done, such as welding, cut-
not taken. its final rule regarding working in lated—a condition that is favorable ting, or brazing. Certain chemical
confined spaces on April 15, 1993. to the creation of an oxygen-defi- reactions can also decrease the
safety
"Confined spaces may be encoun- This rule (29 CFR 1910.146) in- cient atmosphere and the accumu- oxygen level, including rusting or
tered in virtually any occupation; cludes a permit system to help lation of toxic gases,” noted OSHA. fermentation.
therefore their recognition is the ensure that workers are able to
first step in preventing fatalities,” work safely in such a situation. “Furthermore, a confined space is The oxygen level can also decrease
noted a National Institute for Oc- not designed for continuous em- if it is displaced by another gas,
cupational Safety and Health OSHA defines a confined space as ployee occupancy; hence, little such as carbon dioxide or nitrogen.
(NIOSH) publication, Preventing “any space having limited means consideration has been given to Total displacement of oxygen by
Occupational Fatalities in Con- of egress, which is subject to the the preservation of human life another gas, such as carbon diox-
fined Spaces by Ted Pettit, quality accumulation of toxic or flam- within the confined space when ide, will result in unconsciousness,
assurance specialist for NIOSH. mable contaminants or has an employees need to enter it.” followed by death.
oxygen deficient atmosphere.” A
For example, on September 15, confined space, such as a septic “Confined spaces may be classi- “Because these atmospheres can
1986, a plumbing contractor in tank, may have any one of the fied into two categories: open- bring on immediate death, never
Georgia entered a manhole as part following characteristics: topped enclosures with depths that trust your senses to determine if
of his job when laying a sewer restrict the natural movement of the air in a confined space is safe,”
line, noted a NIOSH January 1994 • limited openings for entry or exit, air; and enclosures with extremely warned NIOSH. “You cannot see
publication Worker Deaths in • unfavorable natural ventilation, or limited openings for entry and or smell many toxic gases and
Confined Spaces by Pettit. The • a design unsuitable for continuous exit,” noted a NIOSH article, Pro- vapors, nor can you determine the
manhole was two feet in diameter worker occupancy. fessional Safety: Workers/Rescuers level of oxygen present.”
and 15 feet deep. Upon reaching Continue to Die in Confined
the bottom of the sewer, he com- “Confined space regulations re- Spaces by Pettit. It is important to understand that
plained of a strong odor and then quire that facilities be audited to some gases or vapors are heavier
passed out. identify confined spaces that re- The article also stated that the than air and will settle to the bot-
quire permits, identify employee hazards characteristic of any con- tom of a confined space. By the
Two other workers attempted to training needs, control who enters fined space are determined by the same logic, some gases are lighter
rescue him; however, both of them permitted spaces, and implement materials being stored or used
became dizzy and exited the man- emergency mechanisms,” noted inside the space, the process taking Continued on next page
6 SMALL FLOWS-Spring 1998; Vol.12, No. 2
Continued from previous page would have the ventilating hose
run to the bottom to blow out all
than air and will be found at the harmful gases and vapors. The air
top of a confined space. Therefore, intake should be placed in an area
it is important to test all areas with that will draw in fresh air only.
properly calibrated testing equip-
ment to determine exactly what Ventilation should be continuous
gases are present. where possible because in many
confined spaces, the hazardous
Proper Testing Can Save Lives atmosphere will form again when
If testing reveals oxygen-defi- the flow of air is stopped.
ciency, or the presence of toxic
gases or vapors, the space must be Often the atmosphere or other
ventilated and re-tested before circumstances require that a con- attempting to rescue other workers.
workers enter. If ventilation is not fined space be inaccessible. Isola- Rescuers must be trained in and
possible and entry is necessary (in tion of a confined space means that follow established emergency
an emergency rescue, for example) it is removed from service by either: procedures and use appropriate
workers must wear a SCBA. equipment and techniques.
• locking out electrical sources at
Under certain conditions where the switch, Rescues should be well planned
flammable gases or vapors have • blanking and bleeding pneumatic and drills should be frequently
displaced the oxygen level, but are and hydraulic lines, conducted on emergency proce-
too rich to burn, forced air ventila- • disconnecting belt and chain dures. Unplanned rescue, such as
tion may dilute them until they are drives, and when someone rushes in to help a
within the explosive range and • securing mechanical moving co-worker in trouble, can easily
should be tested before workers parts, such as latches, chains, or result in a double fatality or mul-
enter the area. other devices. tiple fatalities if there is more than
one would-be rescuer.
Also, when inert gases, such as Make a Rescue Plan
carbon dioxide, nitrogen, or argon, In every situation where employees To ensure that rescues run as
are used in the confined space, the must work in confined spaces, a smoothly as possible, employers
space should be well ventilated and rescue plan is required. According are responsible for the training of
re-tested before a worker may enter.to NIOSH, a standby rescue person rescue personnel. Each member
should be assigned to remain out- must be trained to: When working in manholes and other
Ventilation by a blower or a fan side the confined space and be in confined spaces, standby rescue
may be necessary to remove harm- constant contact with the workers • use protective equipment, personnel should always be nearby
ful gases and vapors from confined inside. This person should have no • perform assigned rescue duties, and maintain constant contact with
spaces. Several methods can be duties other than standby responsi- including entering a confined workers inside the confined spaces.
used for ventilating a confined bilities, which include knowing space,
space. The method and equipment who to notify in case of an emergency. • participate in mock rescues, and at (800) 321-OSHA. For more
chosen are dependent upon the size • perform basic first aid and car- information about septic tank
of the openings, the gases present, Standby personnel should never diopulmonary resuscitation maintenance and operation, call
and the source of the air. enter the confined space until help (CPR)—at least one member the National Small Flows Clear-
arrives, and then with the proper must be CPR-certified. inghouse at (800) 624-8301 or
A common method of ventilation equipment, such as respirators, life (304) 293-4191 and order the Fall
requires a large hose, one end lines, or other equipment. For more information about con- 1995 issue of Pipeline, Item#
attached to a fan and the other fined spaces, contact NIOSH at SFPLNL03. There is a $0.20
lowered into a manhole or open- More than 36 percent of the work- (800) 35-NIOSH. To report life- charge, plus shipping and han-
ing. For example, a manhole ers who die in confined spaces are threatening situations, call OSHA dling charges.
Free EPA Report Outlines Privatization of Wastewater Facilities
A recent U.S. Environmental Pro- levels are not expected to ad- Five case studies of public-private private sources must be repaid
tection Agency (EPA) document equately meet these needs. partnership arrangements, with by the wastewater users. Thus,
outlines some of the issues and contact names and phone numbers, privatization is never a source of
options involved in deciding According to the report, an esti- also are included. ‘free’ capital.”
whether to privatize wastewater mated $137 billion, of which
treatment facilities. $47 billion is for wastewater con- The report emphasizes that “the To order a free copy of the report,
cerns, is needed to address all local decision to privatize should be contact the National Center for
The July 1997 report, “Response to government water infrastructure made by local governments and Environmental Publications at
Congress on Privatization of requirements. reflect a balanced evaluation of (800) 490-9198 or (513) 489-8190
Wastewater Facilities,” was devel- the financial, non-financial, and and request document EPA 832/R-
oped at the request of Congress to The 38-page report summarizes other issues and needs of the com- 97-001a. You may also fax orders
examine the use of public-private the most common types of munity.” to (513) 489-8695. The report may
partnerships as a source of funds to privatization, their appeal, federal also be viewed online from EPA’s
meet current and future wastewater requirements, impediments to It also points out that “any waste- National Environmental Publica-
infrastructure needs. Current and privatization, and other factors water capital funds obtained tion Information Site at http://
projected federal and state funding affecting the decision to privatize. through either government or www.epa.gov/cincl/.
SMALL FLOWS-Spring 1998; Vol.12, No. 2 7
Florida Revises Codes to Include Performance-Based Treatment Systems
On March 3, 1998, the Department indicates that currently over 1.6 Bob Rubin and Bill
of Health enacted revisions to million onsite systems are in use Stuth test effluent
Chapter 64E-6 of Florida’s Admin- statewide and an estimated 40,000 samples taken from an
istrative Code for onsite sewage to 70,000 new systems have been aerobic treatment unit
treatment and disposal systems constructed yearly since 1980. located at a private
(OSDS). (Chapter 64-E was formerly This growth in OSDS systems residence in Big Pine
known as Chapter 10D-6 prior to caused officials to question the Key, Florida. Aerobic
Florida’s Department of Health capability of prescriptive practices units and other
reorganization.) This revised code to protect Florida’s groundwater, alternative wastewater
affects the OSDS practices for the source of 87 percent of treatment technologies
single-family residences by setting Florida’s public drinking water are currently being
standards for performance-based supplies and 94 percent of its private installed and
treatment systems that are an alter- supplies. monitored in Florida
native to the systems subject to the to be considered under
current prescriptive standards. To determine if OSDS systems new performance-
were polluting Florida’s ground- based codes.
The specific language of the rule water, Florida’s HRS contracted
was reviewed by a ten-member the engineering firm of Ayres
technical review and advisory Associates, Inc. to evaluate OSDS
panel including septic tank con- systems. This project, begun in
tractors, home builders, realtors, 1986 and completed in 1993, was
soil scientists, homeowners, repre- divided into three major areas of
sentatives from the county health study: the impact of OSDS’s use
departments, Florida’s engineering on groundwater, the capabilities of than having site characteristics of unsaturated soil treatment, but
society, and Florida’s Environmental Florida’s soils to accept and treat dictate whether an OSDS can be prior to discharge to groundwater
Health Association. wastewater, and the suitability of used. must fall within the following
current OSDS design criteria and ranges:
The revised OSDS code defines a installation practices. One of the first places in Florida to
performance-based treatment sys- apply performance-based standards • CBOD5 <5 mg/l
tem as “a specialized onsite sew- Ayres’ initial research into OSDS will likely be the Florida Keys. This • TSS <5 mg/l
age treatment and disposal system use found that approximately 74 is because soil conditions there • TN 15- 25 mg/l
designed by a professional engi- percent of Florida’s soils have were found to be incapable of effec- • TP <5 mg/1
neer with a background in waste- severe or very severe limitations tively treating septic tank effluent.
water engineering, registered in the for conventional OSDS designs This means that many of the currently Secondary wastewater treatment
state of Florida, using appropriate based on USDA Soil Conservation installed prescriptive-based systems standard The arithmetic mean of
application of sound engineering Service criteria. The most common could be contaminating ground- the CBOD5 or TSS values for the
principles to achieve specified limiting soil condition is seasonal waters and have the potential to effluent samples collected
levels of CBOD5 (carbonaceous wetness or shallow groundwater. impact surface water quality. (whether grab or composite tech-
biochemical oxygen demand), TSS Slowly permeable soils, shallow nique is used) during an annual
(total suspended solids), TN (total bedrock, and periodic flooding are Site Evaluation Requirements period shall not exceed 20 mg/l.
nitrogen), TP (total phosphorus) other limiting conditions frequently The conventional septic tank soil
and FC (fecal coliform) found in encountered. absorption system is the baseline • CBOD5 20 mg/l
domestic sewage waste, to a specific system used for comparison. • TSS 20 mg/l
and measurable established perfor- Ayres’ research concluded that Secondary wastewater treatment • FC 200/100 ml
mance standard.” (Package sewage Florida should develop and imple- standards are based on Standard 40 (This is Florida’s definition of
treatment facilities and other treat- ment a performance based program of the NSF International standards basic disinfection.)
ment works regulated under Chapter for siting, design, construction, and for aerobic systems. Advanced
403, Florida Statutes are excluded management of onsite wastewater wastewater treatment standards are Advanced secondary wastewater
from the revised OSDS code.) treatment systems. This approach based on Florida Statutes for dis- treatment standard The arith-
would require that the system charge of publicly-owned treatment metic mean of the CBOD5 or TSS
Conversely, prescriptive regula- design fit the site to meet not only works in sensitive areas. Advanced values for the effluent samples
tions design onsite systems based established public health but also secondary wastewater treatment collected (whether grab or com-
on site conditions and anticipated environmental goals. standards are intermediate between posite technique is used) during an
use of the system. Evaluation of secondary and advanced waste annual period shall not exceed 10
these systems is based on conform- Not only do performance-based treatment standards. (For an easy- mg/l.
ance to a design specification and standards protect public health and to-read listing of the text under this
the system’s capability to keep water quality, but they also enable section, see the chart on the fol- • CBOD5 10 mg/l
wastewater below the ground sur- OSDS systems to be built using lowing page.) • TSS 10 mg/l
face and distant from water supply site constraints that under prescrip- • TN 20 mg/l
wells and surface water. tive code would be unacceptable. Baseline system standard The • TP 10 mg/l
For example, soils with a high effluent concentrations from the • FC 14/100 ml
Prescriptive Practices Not water table could be made suitable treatment tank must fall within the (This is Florida’s definition of
Suitable for Florida under performance-based treat- following ranges: intermediate disinfection.)
Because prescriptive standards ment standards if the OSDS could
were developed for scattered rural demonstrate reliable and consistent • CBOD5 120-240 mg/l Advanced wastewater treatment
homes, they did not address the pathogen removal to a measurable, • TSS 65-176 mg/l standard The arithmetic mean of
consequences of onsite system use acceptable performance level before • TN 36- 45 mg/l the CBOD5 or TSS values for the
in high-density subdivisions. Yet, release to the groundwater. This • TP 6- 10 mg/l effluent samples collected
unpublished data collected by allows designers the flexibility to (whether grab or composite tech-
Florida’s Department of Health create onsite systems capable of The percolate concentrations from nique is used) during an annual
and Rehabilitative Services (HRS) overcoming site limitations rather the baseline system after two feet
Continued on next page
8 SMALL FLOWS-Spring 1998; Vol.12, No. 2
WINTER
1991 & 1993
REPRINTS
Continued from previous page standards requires inclusion of the responsible for operating, monitor- formance standards for a particular
following information: ing, and maintaining the system. site, the system will need to be re-
period shall not exceed 5 mg/l. • system design calculations, engineered. Reasons for noncom-
• CBOD5 5 mg/l • system design plans and drawings Performance-based treatment systems pliance include effluent samples
• TSS 5 mg/l including a detailed installation and the structures they serve must that fall outside the parameters of a
• TN 3 mg/l drawing, be inspected by the Department of predetermined treatment standard
• TP 1mg/l • contingency plan in the event of Health at least once during the term over a predetermined period of
• FC below detectable limits system failure, of the annual operating permit to time. The cost to re-engineer the
(This is Florida’s definition of • certification of design, ensure the system is in compliance. system is assumed by either the
high-level disinfection.) • operation and maintenance engineer or the homeowner, de-
manual prepared by the design Monitoring the System pending on the homeowner’s con-
Setbacks from any surface water or engineer, Monitoring of the secondary treat- tract with the design engineer.
wet retention or detention area are • copy of changes to the engineering ment and advanced secondary
based on the level of treatment by specifications approved and treatment systems is done through Will Wisconsin be next?
the system (see chart below). Infil- certified by the design engineer, a minimum of two observation Wisconsin began developing its
trative surface area reductions will • changes to the operation and ports in the drainfield. Monitoring code for performance based stan-
be allowed for systems that are maintenance manual approved includes recording the depth of dards in 1991 and submitted its
performance-based designed. The and certified by the design effluent ponding in the drainfield first draft for public hearing in
baseline system will be used for engineer, and in at least two places on a monthly 1995. Citizens opposed a provision
comparison with a typical average • cover letter to the county health basis during the first six months, that mandated nitrate removal to
CBOD5 of 140 mg/l and TSS of department stating that the then quarterly after that. 10 mg/l in order to comply with
105 mg/l. (See the maximum re- applicant wishes to apply for a Wisconsin’s 1984 groundwater
duction in infiltrative surface area in performance-based treatment Monitoring requirements for an law. Citizens successfully peti-
the chart below.) system. advanced wastewater treatment tioned the legislature to eliminate
system are more restrictive. It first this requirement from the code
System Design The county health department requires the system operator to sub- because it was not cost-effective.
Designs for performance-based has 15 days from receipt of a mit monthly maintenance reports to
treatment systems allow for the use completed application to approve the county health department starting The code was rewritten and the
of alternative and innovative meth- or reject the new system. If the one month after the system begins to revised draft was submitted for
ods, materials, processes, and design is rejected, the application operate. This report includes the public hearing in August 1997 to
techniques that reduce the total is sent to the state health depart- following information: opposition from environmental
biological, chemical, hydraulic, ment. The state health department groups. According to Roman
organic, nutrient, bacterial and has 90 days to review the • address of performance-based Kaminski, program manager for
viral discharge to the environment. application, including 30 days treatment system, private sewage systems in the
to request additional information • date and time of inspection, Department of Commerce, envi-
Once a design is chosen, it must be and 60 days to approve, approve • sample collection time and date ronmentalists are concerned that
certified by a professional engineer with modifications, or reject the and name of person who this code will eliminate barriers to
registered in Florida and then request. collected sample, land use development that exists
submitted to the county health • results of all sampling, under the prescriptive code and
department. The health department Operating Permit • volume of effluent treated, will promote urban sprawl. Con-
has five days from receipt of the The homeowner of a performance- including total monthly and versely, many landowners see this
application to request additional based treatment system must ob- daily average, new code as allowing a wide vari-
information. In addition to the site tain an annual operating permit • maintenance performed, ety of private sewage system op-
evaluation report and the soil pro- from the county health department. • problems with system, and tions that would give them the
file descriptions, application under The permit designates the perfor- actions taken to resolve them. opportunity to develop lots which
the performance-based treatment mance system maintenance entity previously could not be developed.
During the first six
Florida Performance-based Site Requirements months of system opera- Additional concerns about perfor-
tion, or after the system mance-based standards are raised
Baseline System Standards (all values are mg/l) has failed, the system is by the county code administrators
monitored a minimum who will be charged with adminis-
treatment percolate Secondary Advanced Advanced
tank concentrations Standards Secondary Wastewater
of once every two tering the new code’s day-to-day
Standards Standards weeks. This includes operation yet are unfamiliar with
sampling for CBOD5, the new code’s requirements. Ac-
CBOD 120-240 <5 20 10 5
TSS, TN, TP, and FC. cording to Mike Corry, administra-
TSS 65-176 <5 20 10 5 Results are sent to a tor of the Safety and Building
TN 36-45 15-25 — 20 3 laboratory for analysis Division, the Department of Com-
TP 6-10 <5 — 10 1 and certification. This merce is currently negotiating with
FC — — 200/100 ml 14/100 ml < detectable laboratory must be the Department of Natural Re-
Setbacks (all values are in feet)
approved by the De- sources and with the county code
partment of Health or administrators to answer these
surface water or 75 65 50 25 the Department of En- concerns.
wet retention or
detention area vironmental Protection.
After six months of For more informationon on
groundwater 15 15 10 10
interceptor compliance with perfor- Florida's perfomance-based codes,
drain mance standards, sam- call Sherman at (850) 488-3943.
dry retention
pling and reporting are To find out more information on
areas and 15 15 10 10 done quarterly. the progress that Wisconsin is
swales making, call Kaminski at (715)
If the installed system 345-5334.
percent Baseline 25 30 40 is unable to comply
reduction in
drainfield size with the required per-
SMALL FLOWS-Spring 1998; Vol.12, No. 2 9
Onsite Wastewater Funding Options Discussed
by Natalie Eddy Most often, these programs offer systems or onsite disposal funded through either grants from
finance NSFC Staff Writer
Editor’s Note: This story provides
a sampling of funding sources for
low-interest loans or grants,
particularly for rural residents
meeting specific income guidelines
or health protection requirements.
systems to reduce nonpoint
source pollution caused by
failing septic systems.
the Rural Hardship Grant Program
or Linked Deposit Loans from the
state revolving loan fund adminis-
tered by the appropriate county.
individual homeowner onsite Contacts for these and other
wastewater treatment systems and CWSRF Supports Projects projects are included in the EPA Section 504 Program
is not meant to be a complete list- Over the past decade, the CWSRF booklet. (See the end of story for Another option that works for
ing of available resources. has most commonly been used to ordering information.) income-eligible homeowners, aged
fund wastewater treatment 62 or older, hoping to repair or
Finding money to repair failing projects, which include individual CDBG, Other Programs replace their onsite system is the
onsite wastewater systems or install homeowner loans. So far, states Random calls to a few states not U.S. Department of Agriculture’s
new ones can be a difficult task for have issued a total of approximately responding to the NSFC survey (USDA) Rural Development
homeowners today. Although there $17 billion in wastewater treatment revealed some additional funding Section 504 Program.
is no magic answer, with a little loans from their CWSRFs, accord- programs for onsite systems.
investigative work, there are several ing to the 1997 EPA booklet, The David J. Adams, senior loan spe-
resources that can be tapped for Clean Water State Revolving Fund: Often, whether homeowners can cialist of the single-family housing
low-interest loans, and even grants, How to Fund Nonpoint Source and obtain funding depends on the processing division at USDA, said
by the industrious homeowner. Estuary Enhancement Projects. state, and even the county, in the program provides loans and
which they live. Some states offer grants to enable very low-income,
A recent National Small Flows The CWSRF succeeded the Con- funding through Community De- owner-occupant families in rural
Clearinghouse (NSFC) contact struction Grants Program, a direct velopment Block Grants (CDBG), areas to repair their homes, includ-
questionnaire revealed that at least grant program for funding waste- although this program is typically ing onsite wastewater treatment
18 states offer some type of funding water treatment projects. used for community-wide projects. systems.
program to help homeowners re- Maryland is one state in which
place systems or install new ones. In addition to low-interest loans, some counties use CDBG funds The loan funds can be used for
the CWSRF also provides loan for individual onsite repairs. repairs to improve or modernize
The NSFC study, conducted annually guarantees, bond insurance, and the property to remove health, sani-
by sending questionnaires to each refinancing of existing debt. In addition, Maryland provides tation, or safety hazards or repair or
state’s onsite regulator, asks a two state-funded low-interest loan remodel dwellings to make them
variety of wastewater-related ques- The EPA booklet highlights 17 programs for low-income resi- accessible and usable for house-
tions, ranging from regulations to states that have provided a total of dents, according to Eileen Hagan, hold members with disabilities.
permit use. Results of the study are $531 million in CWSRF assistance director of the state’s Special Adams estimated that 50 percent
offered in the September 1997 to fund projects aimed at protect- Loans Program. The first program, of the applications request onsite
document, A Guide to State-Level ing surfacewater and groundwater. the Maryland Housing Rehabilita- wastewater or plumbing assistance.
Onsite Regulations. (For ordering tion Program (MHRP) allows
information, see the story's end.) Of those states, the following pro- homeowners to do additional work Section 504’s maximum loan
grams are aimed at helping indi- on their home along with onsite amount is $20,000 with the interest
The questionnaire asked each state’s vidual homeowners repair or re- wastewater improvements. rate currently standing at one per-
onsite regulator if there are “any place failing septic systems: cent. Grants have a maximum
funding programs or mechanisms This program assists homeowners lifetime limit of $7,500. Adams
(grants or loans) available to assist • Delaware has a septic tank reha- who are in low- to moderate-in- said there are more than 700 state
homeowners replacing failing sys- bilitation program to finance come categories with the possibility and local offices of the USDA
tems or installing new systems.” rehabilitation of malfunctioning of being eligible for a deferred loan. Rural Development Program and
or failing septic systems. he urges anyone interested in the
Respondents in the following The second program, the Indoor program to check the local telephone
states indicated that they are aware • Maine helps fund the replacement Plumbing Program, was estab- book for the office nearest them.
of such a program, and provided of failed individual septic systems lished to help homeowners add or
contact names: Connecticut, Dela- to protect groundwater and public improve septic systems and indoor For additional information about
ware, Kansas, Maine, Maryland, health. plumbing. This program follows the Section 504 program, contact
Massachusetts, Minnesota, Missis- the same guidelines as the MHRP Adams at the Rural Housing Ser-
sippi, Missouri, Nebraska, New • Massachusetts provides loans to with the same income restrictions. vice, 1400 Independence Ave. SW,
Jersey, New Mexico, Ohio, Okla- replace failed individual septic Washington, DC 20250.
homa, Virginia, Washington, Wis- systems to protect groundwater, Another example of an onsite
consin, and Wyoming. private drinking water supplies, repair program being funded To order a free copy of The Clean
and public health. through the CDBG program is in Water State Revolving Fund: How
In addition, Alabama noted that Clermont County, Ohio. Donna to Fund Nonpoint Source and Estu-
external grants are available occa- • Pennsylvania runs an individual Hart, administrative assistant for ary Enhancement Projects, call the
sionally; however, there is no state on-lot sewage disposal system the county’s general health district, National Center for Environmental
grant program in place. Not all program, offering loans to said the county offers grants of up Publications and Information at
states responded to the questionnaire. correct problems with on-lot to $15,000 to people who meet (513) 489-8190 and request docu-
disposal systems. low-income guidelines. Funding ment EPA 909-K-97-001.
Funding for the states that have may be used to either repair or
programs comes from a variety of • Virginia is launching an onsite replace a system or to connect to a To order A Guide to State-Level
sources, including the Clean Water wastewater treatment and disposal community sewer system. Onsite Regulations, call the NSFC
State Revolving Fund (CWSRF), a program, beginning with a pilot at (800) 624-8301 or (304) 293-4191
loan program run by states and set program providing loans to Meanwhile, the Ohio EPA has and request Item #WWBKRG01.
up with “seed money” from the repair or replace malfunctioning developed a program to help small, The cost is $12.50; shipping and
U.S. Environmental Protection or inadequate systems. disadvantaged rural communities handling charges will apply.
Agency (EPA), and other federal, address their wastewater needs. As
state, and local sources. • Washington uses CWSRF funds part of this program, on-lot and
to help repair or replace septic small cluster system projects are
10 SMALL FLOWS-Spring 1998; Vol.12, No. 2
Aerobic Treatment Units
N SFC Hotline
QA &
Editor’s Note: This column is chamber. Some ATUs have pre- remedy for failing septic systems tive for difficult sites that require
based on calls received over the treatment chambers and/or screens in many areas. Additionally, aer- onsite wastewater treatment. They
advice
National Small Flows Clearing- to reduce the amount of larger ated effluent has been shown to are most commonly used to replace
house’s (NSFC) technical assis- solids entering the aeration cham- renovate clogged drainfields. Up- failing systems, but they should
tance hotline. The information was ber. The aeration chamber contains grading a septic tank to an ATU also be considered for new con-
compiled by Ed Winant, Ph.D., of a mechanical stirrer or diffuser can rejuvenate an existing struction where their advantages
the technical assistance staff. If lines to add air to the wastewater. drainfield and extend its life. can be utilized.
you have further questions con- Above this chamber, usually at
cerning ATUs, call (800) 624-8301 ground level, is an electric motor There are, of course, some draw- For more information on ATUs,
or (304) 293-4191 and ask to to run the stirrer, or an air com- backs to ATUs. The basic unit is contact the NSFC at (800) 624-
speak with a technical assistant. pressor to feed the diffuser lines. more expensive to own and oper- 8301or (304) 293-4191 and request
ate than a septic tank, and requires Item #SFPLNL04 Pipeline (Winter
What is an aerobic treatment After approximately a day’s reten- more maintenance. The solids 1996) discusses ATUs. The cost is
unit? How does it work? tion in the aeration chamber, the must be pumped out every year, $0.20, plus shipping.
When should I use one in- aerated wastewater passes to the instead of every 3-5 years, and the
stead of a septic tank? settling chamber where solids electrical-mechanical parts must be Also request Item #WWBKRG26,
Aerobic treatment units (ATUs), settle out and are stored. The efflu- maintained. Most ATUs are sold ATUs and Package Plants (Septem-
also known as home aeration units, ent leaves this chamber for disin- with a two year service contract, ber 1997) which is a cutomized
provide wastewater treatment and fection or further treatment, usu- covering inspections and mainte- search of the Manufacturers/Con-
storage functions similar to a nor- ally in a sand filter or soil trench. nance. Manufacturers and regula- sultants Database for makers of
mal septic tank. The ATU, how- tors recommend that such a con- aerobic treatment units and
ever, has a mechanism to inject air Aerated wastewater treatment is tract be extended. ATUs are not package plants. The cost is $12.25,
into the tank. The oxygen in the air more effective and produces a the solution for every situation, but plus shipping.
turns the anaerobic environment better quality effluent than anaero- they do offer a reasonable alterna-
aerobic. This allows aerobic bacte- bic or septic treatment. The im-
ria to treat the wastewater resulting proved effluent quality allows The aerobic
in a cleaner effluent than that from ATUs to be used on sites that are environment in
a septic tank. not suitable for conventional septic an aerobic
systems. treatment unit
AERATOR
Aerobic treatment reduces the (ATU) allows
biochemical oxygen demand In some cases, ATUs allow for bacteria to treat
(BOD), a measure of the strength reduced areas for sand filters, or wastewater result-
of the waste, by 90 percent, com- they can be used in soils that can ing in a cleaner IN OUT
pared to the 50 percent typical for not handle septic tank effluent, effluent than con-
a septic tank, and removes six since they are less likely to cause ventional septic AERATION
COMPAARTMENT
times as many coliforms. Addi- soil clogging. Certain states allow tank procedures
tionally, aerobic treatment nitrifies direct discharge of disinfected MIXING
SETTLING
ROTOR
the effluent, converting ammonia ATU effluent. That is, when the
to nitrate. effluent is disinfected, with a chlo- SLUDGE RETURN
rinator for example, it may be sent
The basic ATU consists of an directly to a surface water course
aeration chamber and a settling such as a stream. This is a typical
Wastewater Treatment Courses Offered by University
The Water Environment Federa- Water Treatment Class C Wastewater Facility Manage- operation and control of thickeners,
tion collaborates with the Univer- Teaches basic plant operation proce- ment Skill Training Package and types of dewatering methods.
sity of Florida Independent Study dures and controls. Prepares students Teaches basic management theo-
Program to offer a variety of envi- to take the water treatment state ries and applications, including Wastewater Stabilization
ronmental management correspon- certification exam at the “C” level. planning, organizing, budgeting, Ponds Skills Training Package
dence courses. These courses offer and safety. Discusses types and processes of
both introductory and advanced Activated Sludge Skills Training ponds, pond operation and perfor-
training for wastewater treatment Package Anaerobic Digestion Skills mance, pond maintenance and
plant operators and managers. Teaches operator and trouble- Training Package laboratory control, and retention
shooting skills needed in activated Teaches the basic functions and pond operation.
Wastewater Treatment Plant sludge wastewater treatment plants. processes of anaerobic digestion
Operation, Class C systems. For more information, contact
Teaches skills to operate, maintain, Pumps-Operation and Laurel Brown at the University of
and supervise “C” level wastewa- Maintenance Skills Training Wastewater Treatment: Sludge Florida at (352) 392-1711 or (800)
ter treatment plants. Package Conditioning, Thickening, and 327-4218; fax: (352) 392-6950; e-
An introductory course that de- Dewatering Skills Training mail: learn@nervm.nerdc.ufl.edu.
Wastewater Treatment Plant scribes various types of motors, Package Visit the University’s Division of
Operation, Class D motor controls, and couplings. Discusses quality and quantity of
Continuing Education Web site at:
An introduction to wastewater Teaches operating principles, com- sludge produced by different treat-
http://www.doce.ufl.edu.
treatment with an emphasis on ponents, and maintenance of cen- ment processes: connection among
/indstudy.
extended aeration-type activated trifugal, positive displacement, and treatment processes, methods used
sludge plants. air lift pumps. to chemically condition sludge,
SMALL FLOWS-Spring 1998; Vol.12, No. 2 11
Allbee, Hudiburgh Accept New U.S. EPA Positions
Gary W. Hudiburgh, Jr. has re- mits Division and Municipal Sup- help to expedite projects through programs that will help border
placed Steve Allbee as Chief of the port Division since 1989. He began the development phase, assist the communities, especially small
Grants Assistance Branch in the working for the Permits Division NADBank in establishing funding communities, successfully con-
Municipal Support Division, Of- as an attorney in 1980. partnerships, and facilitate the struct and maintain water and
fice of Wastewater Management at development of training and tech- wastewater infrastructure.
the U.S. Environmental Protection Allbee has accepted the position of nical assistance
Agency (EPA). EPA Small Community Branch
Chief to assist Mexico border
Prior to accepting his position, agencies. He will assist the Border
Hudiburgh was chief of the Environment Cooperation Com-
NPDES Program Branch in the mission and the North American
Permits Division, Office of Waste- Development Bank (NADBank) in
water Management. the development of environmental
infrastructure projects along the
From 1995 to 1996, he was a tech- U.S. and Mexico border.
nical advisor to the Navajo Nation
Environmental Protection Agency These binational organizations
and helped in the development of were established under side agree-
an NPDES program submission. ments that were signed along with
the North American Free Trade Environmental Services Program Director John Mori, Gary Hudiburgh,
Hudiburgh has served in various Agreement in November 1993. and National Small Flows Clearinghouse's EPA project officer Steve Hogye
management positions in the Per- In his new position, Allbee will discuss NSFC's role as a leader in small community wastewater issues.
Wastewater Information Available on the World Wide Web
Editor’s Note: There is an ample site also contains the Washington database’s information. All of the Greater Vancouver Regional
supply of wastewater-related sites State regulations for cross connec- 6000 publications on this site in- District (GVRD)
on the World Wide Web. The fol- tion control. clude full images and text. Wastewatewater System
resources
lowing sites are only a sample of http://www.gvrd.bc.ca/go/work/
information that is available. At Constructed Wetlands Page Surf Your Watershed drain.html
the time of publication, these sites http://www.usouthal.edu/usa/ http://www.epa.gov/surf/ This site includes an overview and
were current, but due to the civileng/wetlands.htm Users can locate their own water- frequently asked questions about
dynamic nature of the Web, they The University of South Alabama shed, browse The Index of Water- GVRD’s wastewater system, as
may have changed, moved, or Department of Civil Engineering’s shed Indicators, EPA’s first na- well as provides a system map and
disappeared. site offers information on con- tional picture of watershed health, a guide to wastewater treatment
structed wetlands, including where and look through listings of groups and information on new urban
Water and Wastes Digest such systems can be used, benefits working to protect and restore watershed management planning
http://www.wwdigest.com of installing constructed wetlands, watersheds around the country. for the Brunette Drainage Basin.
An online digest, this site contains and size and design requirements,
a searchable archive of previous complete with pictures of the sys- Cooperative Research Centre for Rural Water Research and Edu-
articles, a product and suppliers tems. Also available are perfor- Water Quality and Treatment cation Foundation (RWREF)
guide, and a showcase that pro- mance data from existing con- http://www.med.monash.edu.au/ http://www.rwref.org/
vides information on new water structed wetland systems. epidemiology/crc/index.html Users can browse listings and
and wastewater-related products. To achieve the goal of helping the descriptions of current research
CEUs on the World Wide Web Australian water industry produce initiatives and programs that the
Septic Systems http://lbcc.cc.or.us/watertech/ high quality water at an affordable Foundation is undertaking or read
http://h2osparc.wq.ncsu.edu/estu- process.html/ price, this Web site provides areas short abstracts of the 10 research
ary/rec/septic.html Linn-Benton Community College for education and training informa- projects that have been completed
An introduction to onsite wastewa- offers online courses covering tion, Australian drinking water at this site. The RWREF also con-
ter disposal systems, including biological treatment process con- guidelines, a listing of publica- tains large listing of related links,
information on management of trol, which are designed for the tions, and a calendar of events. as well as a list of board members
such systems, is provided for the operator with a basic background and how to contact them.
viewer. Basic descriptions are in secondary biological treatment British Columbia Operators
provided for denitrification, aquac- process and some hands-on experi- Digest
ulture, mound systems, and other ence. http://www.bulkley.net/~dgare/
wastewater-related topics. index.html
The National Environmental The Digest is a newsletter pub-
City of Vancouver Department Publication Information Site lished by the Environmental Op-
of Public Works Cross Connec- (NEPI) erators Certification Program Soci-
tion Control and Backflow http://www.epa.gov/cinc1/ ety and provides information for
Homepage This U.S. Environmental Protec- more than 1,000 certified operators
http://www.ci.vancouver.wa.us/ tion Agency sponsored Website of water and wastewater systems
vanpw/backflow/backfl~1.htm offers over 6000 EPA publications throughout British Columbia and
Viewers can find definitions of that can be searched and viewed the Yukon. The site also offers a
cross connection and backflow, as using commercial Web browsers. calendar of seminars and courses,
well as a listing of certified Users do not have to purchase or water and wastewater links, and
backflow testers available for download any additional software profiles of British Columbia waste-
testing on a commercial basis. This or licenses to search this water plants.
12 SMALL FLOWS-Spring 1998; Vol.12, No. 2
Spring Special—All NSFC Products Half Off June 22–23
NSFC products insert
Spring is a time for new beginnings, of other products already in the You may pay by MasterCard, Watershed Management
and to help you with a fresh start, the NSFC’s products database. VISA, Discover, check, or money Technology
National Small Flows Clearinghouse order. Some restrictions apply to This booklet defines a watershed,
(NSFC) is offering 50 percent off Products Are Cataloged international orders, and actual shows how it works, provides
the regular price of all products The NSFC maintains an inventory shipping and handling charges examples of successful watershed
for orders placed by phone, fax, of more than 250 educational prod- apply to all orders. management projects, and lists
or e-mail on June 22 and 23. ucts about wastewater treatment additional resources for watershed
technologies and issues for small Most orders are filled within information.
“This is how we support Earth communities—those with popula- 48 hours; however, please allow
Day—by offering everyone a tions of fewer than 10,000 people. two to four weeks for delivery. The cost for this 204-page booklet is
discount on everything in our Among the categories of products $5.90. Ask for Item #WWBLGN57.
inventory,” says Jeanne Allen, offered are Saving Water on Earth Day (1997)
NSFC senior information assistant. • case studies, You can use the following materials
• computer searches, to educate your community about Watershed Protection: Catalog
The NSFC is a nonprofit organiza- • computer software, managing one of the earth’s most of Federal Programs
tion and many of its products are • design manuals/modules, precious resources—water. This 115-page book is a directory of
free. Where there is a price, this cost • finance and management, federal programs that contribute to
has been calculated to cover the • general information, Pipeline: Basic Wastewater and participate in watershed man-
expense of assembling or obtaining • NSFC newsletters, Characteristics agement. This directory provides an
the product and is passed on to • operation and maintenance, This issue of Pipeline answers some overview of both comprehensive
the customer on a cost-recovery • public education, basic questions about wastewater and support programs, giving
basis only. • regulations, characteristics and their potential detailed information on the compre-
• research, impact on public health and the hensive programs and descriptions
If an item that the NSFC wants to • technology packages, environment. Some methods for of the support programs. A contact
offer as a product was not created • fact sheets, and testing and treating wastewater has been provided for each entry
by the NSFC, the clearinghouse • videotapes. also are discussed. so that the reader may seek further
always secures permission to dis- information on programs.
tribute it before either purchasing
large quantities or reproducing This book is free. Ask for Item
it. Either way, it’s offered to #FMBKGN02. (1993)
customers at cost.
Xeriscape Landscaping:
Seeking New Products Preventing Pollution and
The search for new products is Using Resources Efficiently
a constant process, and part of it Xeriscape landscaping is defined as
involves NSFC staff who look for “quality landscaping that conserves
information on potential products water and protects the environment.”
at the public events they attend. This 16-page booklet describes
While representing the NSFC at xeriscaping and its many benefits,
conferences, for instance, they will cites some successful examples,
tour exhibits and talk to various and provides a short bibliography
program representatives, collecting and contact/reference list. County
material and literature on each extension services and garden/
product they believe might interest nursery centers can provide specific
NSFC customers. information about applying
Vernon Deal, ESTD Resource Center supervisor (left) and Jeanne xeriscaping in local areas.
“We also have materials sent to us Allen, NSFC senior information assistant (right), look over a new
by the EPA [U.S. Environmental product while product distribution staff member Holly Wade fills This booklet is free. Ask for Item
Protection Agency] for review as a customer’s order. #GNBLPE01. (1993)
possible products,” says Vernon
Deal, Environmental Services and A complete list of the products The cost for this newsletter is 20 Groundwater Protection
Training Division Resource Center available from the NSFC can be cents. Ask for Item #SFPLNL11, This two-page brochure discusses
supervisor, who conducts searches found within the center pages of Fall 1997 issue. groundwater contamination from
for potential new products. The this newsletter. The NSFC’s Prod- septic systems and how to prevent
nature of calls received on the ucts Guide provides abstracts of Guidelines for Water Reuse it, and also can be found online at
technical assistance hotline is also each of the products and may be This manual covers key issues the NSFC’s Web site.
a driving force that can determine downloaded via the NSFC’s Web needed to evaluate water reclama-
the types of products Deal looks site at http://www.nsfc.wvu.edu. tion and reuse opportunities, how This brochure is free. Ask for Item
for. “We keep an eye out in the You also may call the NSFC for to assess costs and benefits, and #WWBRPE21. (1990)
technical service area for product additional product information. how to implement a water reuse
system. It devotes chapters to each Artificial Marshland Treatment
areas that can serve our customers’
of the technical, financial, legal, Systems
needs,” he says. To take advantage of this special SMALL
institutional, and public involve- This 28-minute videotape is a case L
spring offer, place your order by NA
FL
study of artificial marshland for
O
calling (800) 624-8301 or (304) ment considerations that a reuse
OW
Every potential product goes
NAT I
wastewater treatment in Union,
through a thorough review process 293-4191, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern planner might examine, as well as
S
Mississippi. The town replaced its
by the NSFC’s technical assistance Time. Orders also may be faxed to a chapter on reuse applications in
mechanical wastewater treatment
E
CL
(304) 293-3161 or sent via e-mail other countries. EA
S
specialists, who consider, among R IN GHOU
facility with an artificial marshland
other factors, whether the product to nsfc_orders@estd.wvu.edu and
The cost for this 259-page manual treatment system due to higher
is relevant to wastewater and small will be accepted until midnight
is $30.00. Ask for Item construction and operation and West Virginia University
communities and up-to-date with Tuesday, June 23. Morgantown, WV
#WWBKDM72. (1992) maintenance costs associated with
current technology. It must be easy (800) 624-8301
to read or use and not a duplication (304) 293-4191
Continued on page 2
NSFC Products Insert–Spring 1998 1
NSFC Products Provide Aerobic Treatment Information
In this issue of Small Flows, the There are several books offered handling equipment. This product This 79-page report provides the
National Small Flows Clearing- that deal with this subject. A is offered free of charge. theory, component descriptions,
house (NSFC) technical assistants 148-page book issued by the U.S. operation and maintenance require-
answer a question about aerobic Environmental Protection Agency Another EPA-produced book, ments, and performance data of the
treatment units (ATUs), noting that (EPA), Retrofitting POTWs for Assessment of Single-Stage Trick- vertical loop reactor (VLR). The
aerated wastewater treatment Phosphorus Removal in the ling Filter Nitrification (Item VLR is an aerobic treatment process
results in a higher quality effluent Chesapeake Bay Drainage Basin #WWBKDM64), is a 92-page similar to an oxidation ditch;
than anaerobic or septic treatment (Item #WWBKDM71) assesses report evaluating the use of single- instead of circulating the waste-
and is more effective. (See Q&A the technology, economics, and stage trickling filters for nitrification water in a horizontal loop, the
on page 11.) efficiency of phosphorus removal of municipal wastewater. This is a VLR circulates wastewater in a
processes. Included are pure oxy- biological process application in vertical loop around a horizontal
For those who want to delve gen activated sludge systems and which carbon oxidation and nitrifi- divider baffle. There is no charge
deeper into this subject, the NSFC extended aeration and oxygen ditch cation are accomplished within the for this product.
offers a variety of educational activated sludge systems. There is same unit without separation of the
products about aerobic wastewater no charge for this product. biomass used to accomplish these “Sand Filters” (Item #WWBLCM08)
treatment. Please note that postage operations. Multiple-stage systems is a 76-page NSFC computer search
charges apply to all orders. In-Vessel Composting of Munici- were also included in the study, containing abstracts of more than
pal Wastewater Sludge (Item with performance data measured 120 articles about sand filters as an
The Winter 1996 Pipeline focuses #WWBKDM80) is a 191-page after the first stage so they could alternative wastewater treatment
on “Home Aerobic Wastewater summary report issued by the EPA be compared to single-stage sys- system, often used in combination
Treatment: An Alternative to Sep- that presents the results of eight tems. This product is offered free with either aerobic treatment units
tic Systems” (Item #SFPLNL04). case studies of facilities that have of charge. or septic tanks. The cost is $16.55.
It discusses why aerobic systems attempted to mitigate the odor,
may be a better option than septic labor, and materials-handling A photocopy of the EPA document, For a complete NSFC product
systems for many households, how problems associated with open-air Technical Evaluation of the Vertical listing and ordering instructions,
aerobic treatment works, and offers composting. The facilities contain Loop Reactor Process Technology see pages 3–6 of this insert.
guidelines on aerobic system main- the materials within a vessel and (Item #WWBKRE13), is available.
tenance. The cost is 20 cents. use conveyors and other materials-
NSFC Offers New Issue of The Small Flows Journal
The National Small Flows Clearing- were constructed with varying The previous issue of the journal Subscriptions to The Small Flows
house (NSFC) has recently pub- length-width ratios. The filters (Item #SFJRNL03) included a case Journal are free for U.S. residents.
lished the fourth issue of The Small were subjected to various stress study of an innovative wastewater International subscriptions are
Flows Journal, a peer- tests, and the parameters of bio- system designed for a small resi- $3.50 per year. The Small Flows
reviewed technical chemical oxygen demand, total dential development in California Journal is also available online at
journal devoted to suspended and volatile solids, and a follow-up to a study pub- the NSFC’s Web site at http://
small community ammonium and sulfide effluent lished in the previous issue on the www.nsfc.wvu.edu.
wastewater issues. levels, and biofilm accumulation performance of shallow intermit-
on the gravel were measured over tent sand filters. To subscribe or to request a copy
This new issue (Item a two-year period. of the current or previous journal
#SFJRNL04) features Past issues also have included issues, contact the NSFC at (800)
two studies. The The second paper in this issue articles on a new strategy for man- 624-8301 or (304) 293-4191, or
first one looks at assesses the impact of the disposal aging onsite system maintenance write to NSFC, West Virginia
the effects of of unused household cleaning by offering special homeowner University, P.O. Box 6064,
length-width ratio products on microbial wastewater insurance for onsite systems Morgantown, WV 26506-6064.
and stress on rock-plant filter treatment processes. The authors (Item #SFJRNL02), case studies
operation. Rock-plant filters use a evaluate the microbial toxicity and research on toxic source For information on submitting a
bed of rock or gravel in conjunction tests used to evaluate the effects reduction strategies and pollution manuscript for The Small Flows
with various semi-aquatic plants. of cleaning products on residential prevention for small communities, Journal, contact Cathie Falvey,
Combined with septic tanks, these wastewater treatment systems and a small community system using editor, at the telephone number
filters replace traditional soil absorp- look at the data from four case stud- pressure sewers and a septic sys- or address listed above.
tion fields. In this study, three ies using worst-case scenarios— tem, and scum control in septic
rock-plant filter beds sized to serve single-residence septic tanks. tanks (Item #SFJRNL01).
a typical three-bedroom house
Spring Special—All NSFC Products Half Off June 22–23
Continued from page 1 the importance of water conservation The cost of this videotape is $12.00. property values. It highlights such
and illustrates practical ways to save Ask for Item #WWVTPE33. (1996) items as the importance of filter
mechanical treatment systems. The water. Discussions of residential strips, septic system maintenance,
new system is meeting the advanced water use show a typical value of Keeping Our Shores/Protect- best management practices for
wastewater treatment standards. 260 gallons per day per four-mem- ing Minnesota Waters: recreation, and the importance of
ber family. The video also shows Shoreland Best Management working together as a community
The cost for this videotape is $10.00. how to install low-flow fixtures in Practices to solve problems and protect the
Ask for Item #WWVTPE29. (1992) a new bathroom, how to retrofit This 15-minute videotape, along surrounding environment.
existing bathroom fixtures, and with its packet of 18 fact sheets,
Water Conservation—Manag- how water use affects the effi- focuses on practices that can be The cost of this videotape is $20.00.
ing Our Precious Liquid Asset easily adopted in shoreland areas
ciency of a septic system. Ask for Item #WWVTPE34.
This 22-minute videotape highlights to protect both water quality and (1996)
2 NSFC Products Insert–Spring 1998
National Small Flows Clearinghouse Products List
products list
The National Small Flows Clearinghouse (NSFC) helps small New products are added regularly and are indicated by a shaded box.
communities find practical, affordable solutions to their wastewater Occasionally, the price for a product may change because the product
treatment problems. has been updated, or because it is no longer available and is now being
The NSFC offers more than 300 different manuals, booklets, pam- photocopied. These price changes are indicated with an asterisk (*).
phlets, and videotapes. These materials range from technical design To place an order, follow the directions on the order form on page 8
manuals that detail system design, to general interest videotapes that of this insert. Abstracts of many products are provided in the NSFC’s
help small communities plan for their environmental needs. new Guide to Products and Services. The guide may be downloaded
via the NSFC’s Web site (http://www.nsfc.wvu.edu).
Case Studies WWBLDM02 Cost Effectiveness Analysis .......................................... $6.90
WWBLDM03 Onsite Wastewater Disposal: Distribution Networks for
WWBLCS02 Vacuum Collection System Subsurface Soil Absorption Systems ............................ $6.65
(Cedar Rocks, West Virginia) ....................................... $1.15
WWBLDM04 Onsite Wastewater Disposal: Evapotranspiration and
WWBLCS03 Variable Grade Effluent Sewers Evapotranspiration/Absorption Systems ....................... $2.30
(Maysville Area, Muskingum County, Ohio) ............... $1.90 WWBLDM07 Low-Pressure Sewer Systems ........................................ $6.65
WWBLCS04 Alternating Bed Soil Absorption Systems WWBLDM08 Management Plans and Implementation Issues:
(Crystal Lakes, Colorado) .............................................. $2.20 Small Alternative Wastewater Systems Workshops ..... $3.05
WWBLCS05 Intermittent Sand Filter (Gardiner, New York) ............ $1.15 WWBLDM09 Wisconsin Mound Soil Absorption System Siting,
WWBLCS06 Overland Flow (Kenbridge, Virginia) ........................... $2.45 Design, and Construction Manual ................................. $5.65
WWBLCS07 Wetlands/Marsh (Cannon Beach, Oregon) ................... $2.05 WWBLDM12 Site Evaluation for Onsite Treatment
WWBLCS09 Slow Rate Land Treatment (Craigsville, Virginia) ....... $1.90 and Disposal Systems .................................................... $5.65
WWBLCS10 Year-Round Slow-Rate Land Treatment WWBLDM13 Design Workbook for Small-Diameter, Variable-Grade,
(Hershey’s Mills, Pennsylvania) ................................... $1.30 Gravity Sewers ............................................................... $6.65
WWBLCS11 Flat Grade Sewers (Ericson, Nebraska) ........................ $1.05 WWBLDM14 Subsurface Soil Absorption of Wastewater:
WWBLCS12 Grinder Pump Pressure Sewers (Augusta, Maine) ........ $1.15 Trenches and Beds ......................................................... $3.60
WWBLDM15 Vacuum Sewerage ......................................................... $6.75
WWBLCS13 Minimum Grade Effluent Sewers (Dexter, Oregon) ..... $1.45
WWBLDM16 Subsurface Soil Absorption System Design Work Session:
WWBLCS14 New York State Free Access Intermittent Sand Filter .. $2.45
New Development—Stump Creek Subdivision ............ $3.75
WWBLCS18 New York State Septic Tank Effluent Collection and
WWBLDM18 Onsite Wastewater Treatment: Septic Tanks ................ $2.20
Sand Filter Treatment .................................................... $1.45
WWBLDM20 Technology Assessment of Intermittent Sand Filters ... $4.50
WWBLCS21 Pollution Prevention at POTWs .................................... $0.00
WWBKCS22 Combined Sewer Overflows and the Multimetric WWBLDM21 Design and Installation of Low-Pressure Pipe
Waste Treatment Systems .............................................. $4.75
Evaluation of Their Biological Effects:
Case Studies in Ohio and New York ............................. $0.00 WWBLDM22 Variable Grade Sewers: Special Evaluation Project ..... $2.45
WWBKDM31 Planning Wastewater Management Facilities
for Small Communities ................................................ $22.45
Computer Searches
WWBKDM35 Onsite Wastewater Treatment and Disposal
WWBLCM01 Constructed Wetland, December 1996 .......................... $9.95 Systems ......................................................................... $45.00
WWBLCM02 Composting Toilets, December 1996 ............................ $5.35 WWBKDM36 Municipal Wastewater Stabilization Ponds ................ $48.85
WWBLCM03 Failing Systems, December 1996 ................................ $13.80 WWBKDM38 Constructed Wetlands and Aquatic Plant Systems
WWBLCM04 Greywater, December 1996 ........................................... $7.90 for Municipal Wastewater Treatment .......................... $10.00
WWBLCM05 On Site Management, December 1996 ........................ $49.40 WWBLDM40 Sequencing Batch Reactors ........................................... $3.45
WWBLCM06 Mound Systems, December 1996 ................................ $10.65 WWBKDM41 Phosphorus Removal ................................................... $17.85
WWBLCM07 Pressure Sewers, December 1996 .................................. $7.90 WWBKDM42 Dewatering Municipal Wastewater Sludges ................. $0.00
WWBLCM08 Sand Filters, December 1996 ....................................... $16.55 WWBKDM43 Odor and Corrosion Control in Sanitary
Sewage Systems and Treatment Plants ....................... $20.00
WWBLCM09 Septage, December 1996 ............................................... $8.35
WWBKDM44 Seminar Publication: Composting of Municipal
WWBLCM10 Wastewater Characteristics, December 1996 .............. $10.65 Wastewater Sludges ....................................................... $9.80
WWBLCM11 Water Conservation, December 1996 ......................... $13.10 WWBKDM46 Retrofitting POTWs ....................................................... $0.00
WWPCCM12 Customized Bibliographic Database Search ............... Varies WWBKDM47 Fine Pore Aeration Systems .......................................... $0.00
WWPCCM15 Facilities Database Search ........................................... Varies WWBLDM48 EPA Environmental Regulations and Technology:
WWPCCM16 Manufacturers and Consultants Database Search ....... Varies The National Pretreatment Program .............................. $4.20
WWPCCM17 Lagoons, December 1996 ............................................ $19.85
WWBLCM18
WWBLCM19
Drip Irrigation, June 1997 ............................................. $1.45
Spray System, June 1997 ............................................... $6.20
Explanation of Item Number
WWBLCM20 Additives, June 1997 ...................................................... $2.05 First two characters of item Third two characters of item
WWBLCM21 Low-Flush Toilet, June 1997 ......................................... $2.60 number: (Major Product Category) number: (Content Type)
WWBLCM22 Operator Health and Safety, January 1998 ................... $2.45 WW Wastewater BI Back Issue
FM Finance and Management CM Computer Search
WWBKCM23 Disinfection, February 1998 .......................................... $9.50
GN General Information CS Case Study
WWBKCM24 Site Evaluation, February 1998 ..................................... $8.35 SF Small Flows DM Design Manuals
Second two characters of item FN Finance
Computer Software number: (Document Type) GN General Information
BK Book, greater than 50 pages NL Newsletter
WWSWDM39 Airvac Version 3.2 and User’s Guide ........................... $6.90 BL Booklet, less than 50 pages OM Operation and Maintenance
WWSWDM55 Station Version 3.0 and User’s Guide ........................... $6.60 BR Brochure PE Public Education
WWSWDM58 User Documentation: POTW Expert Version 1.0 ...... $30.60 FS Fact Sheet PP Public-Private Partnerships (P3)
WWSWDM77 Gravity Sewer Design Version 2.2 M and JR Journal RE Research
User’s Guide .................................................................. $6.60 NL Newsletter RG Regulations
PL Pipeline TR Training
WWSWDM79 Variable Grade Effluent Sewer Design
Version 2.2 M and User’s Guide ................................... $9.20 PK Packet Last two characters of item number:
PS Poster Uniquely identifies product within
SW Software major category.
Design Manuals/Modules VT Videotape
WWBLDM01 Subsurface Soil Absorption of Wastewater: Note: Shaded areas are new products. * Denotes price, title, or item # change.
Artificially Drained Systems ......................................... $2.45
NSFC Products Insert–Spring 1998 3
WWBKDM49 Municipal Wastewater Disinfection .............................. $0.00 FMBLFN29 Federal Funding Sources for Small Community
WWBKDM50 Identification and Correction of Typical Design Wastewater Systems ...................................................... $0.00
Deficiencies at Municipal Wastewater FMBKGN01 It’s Your Choice: A Guidebook for Local Officials on
Treatment Facilities ..................................................... $60.35 Small Community Wastewater Management Options .. $7.50
WWBKDM53 Alternative Wastewater Collection Systems ............... $25.00 FMBLGN04 Looking at User Charges: A State Survey
WWBKDM57 Control of Slug Loadings to POTWs and Report ...................................................................... $5.20
Guidance Manual ......................................................... $14.20 FMBKGN11 Andrew W. Breidenback Environmental Research
products WWBKDM59 Guidance Manual on the Development and
Implementation of Local Discharge Limitations FMBLGN14
Center Small Systems Resource Directory ................... $0.00
Watershed Approach Framework .................................. $0.00
Under the Pretreatment Program ................................. $51.30 FMBLGN15 Why Watersheds? .......................................................... $0.00
WWBLDM65 General Design, Construction, and Operation Guidelines: FMBKMG02 Management of a Construction Project.
Constructed Wetlands Wastewater Treatment Systems for A Guide for Grantees ..................................................... $4.55
Small Users Including Individual Residences
(Second Edition) ............................................................ $5.00 FMBLMG05 Septic Systems and Ground Water Protection:
An Executive’s Guide .................................................... $2.05
WWBKDM68 Technical Support Document for Water Quality Based
Toxics Control ................................................................ $0.00 FMBKPE32 Economic Benefits of Runoff Controls ......................... $0.00
WWBKDM70 Wastewater Treatment and Disposal Systems FMBKPP03 Public-Private Partnerships for Environmental Facilities.
for Small Communities ................................................ $16.50 A Self-Help Guide for Local Governments .................. $0.00
WWBKDM71 Retrofitting POTWs for Phosphorus Removal in the FMBLPP06 Developing Public/Private Partnerships: An Option
Chesapeake Bay Drainage Basin ................................... $0.00 for Wastewater Financing .............................................. $0.00
WWBKDM72 Guidelines for Water Reuse ......................................... $30.00 WWBKMG02 Biosolids Management Handbook for Small Publicly
Owned Treatment Works ............................................. $37.50
WWBKDM73 Guidance to Protect POTW Workers from Toxic and
Reactive Gases and Vapors ........................................... $0.00 WWBLMG03 Septage Management in Ohio ........................................ $1.25
WWBKDM74 Subsurface Flow Constructed Wetlands for Wastewater WWBKMG04 A Manual for Managing Septic Systems ..................... $21.55
Treatment ..................................................................... $12.25 WWBKMG05 Draft Framework for Watershed-Based Training ......... $0.00
WWBKDM75 Combined Sewer Overflow Control .............................. $0.00 WWBKMG07 Environmental Planning for Small Communities:
WWBLDM76 Mound Systems: Pressure Distribution of Wastewater A Guide for Local Decision Makers ........................... $15.00
Design and Construction in Ohio .................................. $2.75
WWBKDM80 In-Vessel Composting of Municipal Wastewater General Information
Sludge ............................................................................. $0.00
WWBKDM81 Surface Disposal of Sewage Sludge and GNBKGN02 Federal Agency Ground Water Technical
Domestic Septage ......................................................... $42.40 Assistance Directory ...................................................... $0.00
WWBKDM83 Handbook of Constructed Wetlands: Volume 1 ......... $10.10 GNBLGN03 Watershed Protection Approach .................................... $0.00
WWBLDM84 Handbook of Constructed Wetlands: Volume 2, GNBLGN04 ENVEST: Engineers Volunteering Environmental
Domestic Wastewater .................................................... $4.35 Service Teams ................................................................ $0.75
WWBLDM85 Handbook of Constructed Wetlands: Volume 3, WWBKGN05 Small Town Task Force ................................................. $5.00
Agricultural Wastewater ................................................ $4.75 GNBKGN08 Watershed Protection: A Project Focus ........................ $0.00
WWBLDM86 Handbook of Constructed Wetlands: Volume 5, GNBLGN09 Office of Compliance An Introductory Guide .............. $0.00
Stormwater ..................................................................... $5.50 GNBLGN10 Top 10 Watershed Lessons Learned .............................. $0.00
GNBLGN11 Section 319 National Monitoring Program:
Fact Sheets An Overview .................................................................. $0.00
WWBRGN15 Water Reuse via Dual Distribution Systems ................. $0.00
WWFSGN84 Constructed Wetlands/Natural Wetlands ...................... $0.30
WWBLGN16 Report on the Use of Wetlands for Municipal
Wastewater Treatment and Disposal ........................... $5.90*
Finance and Management WWBRGN19 Natural Systems for Wastewater Treatment in
Cold Climates ................................................................. $0.00
FMBKCS21 Cost Savings Models for Environmental Protection:
Helping Communities Meet Their Environmental WWBRGN20 Innovations in Sludge Drying Beds:
Goals ............................................................................. $13.65 A Practical Technology ................................................. $0.00
WWBRFN02 EPA's Clean Water Act-Indian Set-Aside WWBLGN31 Inflow/Infiltration: A Guide for Decision Makers ........ $6.05
Grant Program ................................................................ $0.00 WWBKGN35 Municipal Wastewater Reuse: Selected Readings
FMBLFN03 A Water and Wastewater Manager’s Guide for on Water Reuse ............................................................ $10.80
Staying Financially Healthy .......................................... $0.00 WWBKGN36 Waste Water Justice? Its Complexion in Small Places
WWBLFN03 Answers to Frequently Asked Questions About the US Appendix ........................................................................ $0.00
EPA Clean Water Indian Set-Aside Grant Program ..... $0.00 WWBKGN39 Septic Tank Siting to Minimize the Contamination of
WWFSFN04 Rural Community Assistance Program (RCAP) Help Ground Water by Microorganisms .............................. $13.95
for Small Community Wastewater Projects .................. $0.00 WWBLGN40 EPA Journal Reprint: Protecting Ground Water,
FMBKFN06 Combined Sewer Overflows: Guidance for The Hidden Resource ..................................................... $4.75
Funding Options ............................................................. $5.00 WWBLGN55 GAO Report: Water Pollution—Information on the
FMBKFN12 Alternative Financing Mechanisms for Use of Alternative Wastewater Treatment Systems ..... $2.00
Environmental Programs ............................................. $17.50 WWBKGN58 Guide to Septage Treatment and Disposal .................... $0.00
FMBLFN13 A Utility Manager’s Guide to Water and WWBLGN59 Biosolids Recycling: Beneficial Technology for
Wastewater Budgeting ................................................... $0.00 a Better Environment ..................................................... $0.00
FMSWFN16 Determining Wastewater User Service Charge Rates .. $5.00 WWBLGN62 Office of Wastewater Management Primer ................... $4.35
FMBLFN17 The Road To Financing, Assessing, and Improving WWBRGN63 Clean Water . . . A Better Environment:
Your Community’s Credit Worthiness .......................... $0.00 Wastewater Management at EPA .................................. $0.00
FMBKFN18 Financing Models for Environmental Protection: Helping WWBRGN64 Source Reduction, An Integral Part of the
Communities Meet Their Environmental Goals ........... $0.00 MWPP Program ............................................................. $0.00
FMBLFN19 Evaluating Municipal Wastewater User Charge WWBLGN65 Marine and Estuarine Protection Programs and
Systems ........................................................................... $5.50 Activities ........................................................................ $0.00
FMBLFN20 Clean Water State Revolving Fund ............................... $0.00 WWBKGN67 Summary Report: Small Community Water and
FMBKFN22 Beyond SRF: A Workbook for Financing CCMP Wastewater Treatment ................................................. $13.65
Implementation .............................................................. $0.00 WWBLGN71 Combined Sewer Overflows: Screening and
FMFSFN24 Clean Water State Revolving Fund Program ................ $0.00 Ranking Guidance .......................................................... $0.00
FMBLFN25 Clean Water State Revolving Fund Funding WWBKGN72 Combined Sewer Overflows: Guidance for
Framework ..................................................................... $0.00 Long Term Control Plan ................................................ $0.00
FMBKFN26 CSO's: Guidance for Financial Capability WWBKGN73 Combined Sewer Overflows: Guidance for
Assessment and Schedule Development ....................... $0.00 Permit Writers ................................................................ $0.00
FMFSFN27 Hardship Grants Program for Rural Communities ....... $0.00 WWBLGN78 United States Census Data: 1980 and 1990 .................. $1.05
FMBLFN28 State Match Options for the State Revolving Fund WWBLGN79 Combined Sewer Overflow Control Policy: A
Program .......................................................................... $0.00 Consensus Solution to Improve Water Quality ............. $0.60
4 NSFC Products Insert–Spring 1998
WWBKGN85 Guide to the Biosolids Risk Assessment for the EPA WWBKOM16 Detection, Control, and Correction of Hydrogen Sulfide
Part 503 Rule .................................................................. $0.00 Corrosion in Existing Wastewater Systems ................ $23.15
WWBRGN88 Clean Vessel Act: Keep Our Water Clean— WWBKOM17 Chemical Aids Manual for Wastewater Treatment
Use Pumpouts ................................................................ $0.00 Facilities ......................................................................... $0.00
WWBKGN89 National Onsite Wastewater Treatment: A National Small WWBKOM19 Inspectors Guide for Evaluation of Municipal Wastewater
Flows Clearinghouse Summary of Onsite Systems Treatment Plants ............................................................ $0.00
in the United States, 1993 ............................................ $17.50
WWBKGN90 Seminar Publication: National Conference on Sanitary
Sewer Overflows ............................................................ $0.00
Public Education
WWBLGN91 Sewage Sludge (Biosolids) Use or Disposal GNBLPE01 Xeriscape Landscaping: Preventing Pollution and
Documents ...................................................................... $0.45 Using Resources Efficiently .......................................... $0.00
WWBKGN92 Commitment to Watershed Protection: A Review of the GNBRPE02 Everyone Shares a Watershed ....................................... $0.20
Clean Lakes Program ..................................................... $0.00 GNBLPE03 DES Guide to Groundwater Protection: Answers
WWBKGN93 Response to Congress on Use of Decentralized to Questions about Groundwater Protection in
Wastewater Treatment Systems ................................... $13.10 New Hampshire .............................................................. $2.75
WWBLGN94 Waste Water Justice? Its Complexion in Small Places . $0.00 GNBRPE04 Test The Waters! Careers in Water Quality ................. $0.20
WWBKGN96 Compendium of Tools for Wastewater Assessment GNBRPE05 Adopt Your Watershed .................................................. $0.00
and TMDL Development ............................................... $0.00 WWBLPE01 Is Your Proposed Wastewater Project Too Costly?
WWBKHD52 Directory of Local Health Departments ...................... $26.60 Options for Small Communities .................................... $0.90
GNBKIN05 Designing a Water Conservation Program: An WWPSPE02 Small Wastewater Systems: Alternative Systems for
Annotated Bibliography of Source Materials ............... $0.00 Small Communities and Rural Areas ............................ $0.55
WWBRPR04 National Onsite Demonstration Project ......................... $0.00 WWPSPE03 Do More with SCORE Poster ........................................ $0.00
WWBLPE07 Benefits of Water and Wastewater Infrastructure ......... $0.00
NSFC Newsletters WWBLPE08 The State of the Chesapeake Bay 1995 ......................... $0.00
WWBRPE17 Septic Systems: A Guide for Homeowners ................... $0.00
GNBKIN01 NSFC Publications Index, 1997 .................................... $0.00
WWBRPE18 The Care and Feeding of Your Septic Tank .................. $0.00
GNNLBI24 Small Flows, July 1993 .................................................. $0.00
WWBRPE20 So . . . Now You Own A Septic Tank ........................... $0.00
GNNLBI27 Small Flows, Spring 1994 .............................................. $0.00
WWBRPE21 Groundwater Protection ................................................. $0.00
GNNLBI28 Small Flows, Summer 1994 ........................................... $0.00
WWBRPE22 Combined Sewer Overflows in Your Community ........ $0.00
GNNLBI29 Small Flows, Fall 1994 .................................................. $0.00
WWBRPE26 Preventing Pollution Through Efficient Water Use ...... $0.00
GNNLBI31 Small Flows, Spring 1995 .............................................. $0.00
WWPSPE27 Water Quality . . . Potential Sources of Pollution ......... $0.00
GNNLBI32 Small Flows, Summer 1995 ........................................... $0.00
WWPKPE28 Homeowner Septic Tank Information Package
GNNLBI33 Small Flows, Fall 1995 .................................................. $0.00 (NSFC) ......................................................................... $2.00*
GNNLBI34 Small Flows, Winter 1996 ............................................. $0.00 WWBLPE30 Homeowner’s Septic Tank System Guide and
GNNLBI35 Small Flows, Spring 1996 .............................................. $0.00 Record Keeping Folder (NOWRA) ............................... $0.50
GNNLBI36 Small Flows, Summer 1996 ........................................... $0.00 WWBLPE31 Sanitary Sewer Overflows: What are they, and how
GNNLBI37 Small Flows, Fall 1996 .................................................. $0.00 do we reduce them? ....................................................... $0.00
GNNLBI38 Small Flows, Winter 1997 ............................................. $0.00 WWPSPE35 Indicator Organisms in Wastewater Treatment ............. $2.60
GNNLBI39 Small Flows, Spring 1997 .............................................. $0.00 WWPSPE36 Pipeline: Small Community Options & Resources ...... $0.00
GNNLBI43 Small Flows, Spring 1998 ............................................ $0.00 WWBLPE37 Homeowner Onsite System Recordkeeping Folder
(NSFC) ........................................................................... $0.40
SFJRNL01 Small Flows Journal, Vol. 1, No. 1 ............................... $0.00
SFJRNL02 Small Flows Journal, Vol. 2, No. 1 ............................... $0.00
SFJRNL04 Small Flows Journal, Vol. 4, No. 1 .............................. $0.00
Regulations
SFPLNL01 CSO Pipeline .................................................................. $0.20 A number of the regulatory documents have been updated. Please refer to
SFPLNL02 Septic Tanks Pipeline ..................................................... $0.20 them by date.
SFPLNL03 Septic Tanks Operation and Maintenance Pipeline ...... $0.20 GNBLRG01 Introduction to Water Quality Standards ...................... $0.00
SFPLNL04 Aerobic Treatment Units Pipeline ................................. $0.20 WWBKRG01 A Guide to State-Level Onsite Regulations,
SFPLNL05 Management Programs Can Help Small Communities September 1997 .......................................................... $12.50*
Pipeline ........................................................................... $0.20 WWBKRG19 Application Rates and Sizing of Effluent Drainfields
SFPLNL06 Wastewater Treatment Protects Small Community from the State Regulations, November 1996 .............. $13.50
Life, Health Pipeline ...................................................... $0.20 WWBKRG20 Location and Separation Guidelines from the
SFPLNL07
SFPLNL08
SFPLNL09
SFPLNL10
SFPLNL11
Alternative Sewers Pipeline ........................................... $0.20
Choose the Right Consultant for Your Wastewater
Project Pipeline .............................................................. $0.20
Lagoon Systems Pipeline ............................................... $0.20
Sand Filters Pipeline ...................................................... $0.20
Wastewater Characteristics Pipeline..............................$0.20
WWBKRG21
WWBKRG22
WWBKRG23
State Regulations, November 1996 ............................. $13.65
Wastewater Flow Rates from the State Regulations,
October 1996 ................................................................ $15.95
Percolation Tests from the State Regulations,
November 1996 ............................................................ $16.55
No-Flow Toilets from the State Regulations,
products
November 1996 ............................................................ $16.25
SFPLNL12 A Homeowners Guide to Onsite System Regulations $0.20*
WWBLRG24 Greywater Systems from the State Regulations,
SFPLNL13 Onsite System Inspection Pipeline ................................ $0.00 September 1997 ............................................................ $6.90*
WWBKRG26 Package Plants and Aerobic Treatment Systems
Operation and Maintenance from the State Regulations, September 1997 .............. $13.50
WWBKRG27 Site Evaluations from the State Regulations,
WWBLOM01 Reducing the Cost of Operating Municipal November 1996 ............................................................ $31.75
Wastewater Facilities ..................................................... $0.00
WWBKRG30 Control of Pathogens and Vector Attraction in
WWBKOM02 Cost Reduction and Self-Help Handbook ..................... $7.80 Sewage Sludge ............................................................... $0.00
WWBLOM04 Contract Operation and Maintenance: WWBLRG31 NPDES Storm Water Program, Question and Answer
The Answer for Your Town? ......................................... $1.90 Document, Volume 1 ..................................................... $0.00
WWBLOM05 Analysis of Performance Limiting Factors (PLFs) WWBLRG34 State Regulations Contact List, September 1997 ........ $0.00*
at Small Sewage Treatment Plants ................................ $3.05
WWBKRG35 Standards for Use and Disposal of Sewage Sludge
WWBLOM06 The Onsite Operator Training Program: 40 CFR Part 503 ............................................................. $0.00
Success in Every Region! .............................................. $3.75
WWBKRG36 Domestic Septage Regulatory Guidance: A Guide to
WWBLOM07 Alternative Sewers Operation and Maintenance the EPA 503 Rule ........................................................... $0.00
Special Evaluation Project ............................................. $2.60
WWBLRG37 NPDES Storm Water Program Question and Answer
WWBKOM08 Combined Sewer Overflows: Guidance for Nine Document, Volume 2 ..................................................... $0.00
Minimum Controls ......................................................... $0.00
WWBKRG38 Plain English Guide to the EPA Part 503
WWBKOM09 POTW Sludge Sampling and Analysis Guidance Biosolids Rule ................................................................ $0.00
Document ....................................................................... $0.00
NSFC Products Insert–Spring 1998 5
WWBLRG39 NPDES Self-Monitoring System User Guide ............... $3.75 Training Materials
WWBKRG40 Inspections from the State Regulations,
November 1996 ............................................................ $12.80 WWBKTR01 NPDES Compliance Inspection Training Program
Student’s Guide ............................................................ $16.85
WWBLRG41 Federal Register Part VII EPA CSO Control Policy .... $0.00
WWBLTR02 NPDES Compliance Inspection Video Workbook:
WWBLRG42 NPDES and Sewage Sludge Program Authority: A
Inspecting a Parshall Flume ........................................... $4.05
Handbook for Federally Recognized Indian Tribes ...... $0.00
WWBKTR03 NPDES Compliance Monitoring Inspector Training—
WWBKRG43 Land Application of Sewage Sludge ............................. $0.00
Sampling ...................................................................... $13.95
WWBKRG44 Preparing Sewage Sludge for Land Application or
WWBKTR04 NPDES Compliance Monitoring Inspector Training—
Surface Disposal ............................................................ $7.90
Biomonitoring .............................................................. $11.25
WWBKRG45 Surface Disposal of Sewage Sludge .............................. $0.00
WWBKTR05 NPDES Compliance Monitoring Inspector Training—
WWBRRG48 Florida Clean Vessel Act: What It Means For Overview ...................................................................... $12.65
Boaters and Marinas ...................................................... $0.00
WWBKTR06 NPDES Compliance Monitoring Inspector Training—
WWBKRG49 Combined Sewer Overflow Control Policy .................. $4.75 Legal Issues .................................................................. $16.70
WWBKRG50 Part 503 Implementation Guidance ............................... $0.00 WWBKTR07 NPDES Compliance Monitoring Inspector Training—
WWBKRG51 US EPA NPDES Permit Writers' Manual ..................... $0.00 Laboratory Analysis ..................................................... $20.00
WWBKRG52 Septic Tanks-Southeast From the State Regulations:
September 1997 (AL, AR, FL, GA, KY, LA, MD, Videotapes
NC, SC, TN, VA, WV) ................................................ $11.95
WWBKRG53 Septic Tanks-Southwest From the State Regulations: FMVTMG01 Wastewater Management in Unsewered Areas ........... $10.00
September 1997 (AZ, CA, CO, HI, KS, MO, NE, FMVTPE01 Building Support for Increasing User Fees
NV, NM, OK, TX, UT) ................................................. $9.95 (videotape and workbook) ........................................... $12.45
WWBKRG54 Septic Tanks-Northwest From the State Regulations: WWVTGN10 Morrilton, Arkansas, Land Application of
September 1997 (AK, ID, IL, IA, MN, MT, ND, Wastewater ................................................................... $10.00
OR, SD, WA, WI, WY) ................................................. $8.35 WWVTGN13 Alternative Is Conservation ......................................... $10.00
WWBKRG55 Septic Tanks-Northeast From the State Regulations: WWVTGN87 Proper Treatment and Uses of Septage ....................... $15.00
September 1997 (CT, DE, IN, ME, MA, MI, NH,
NJ, NY OH, PA, RI, VT) ............................................... $8.65 WWVTPE03 Sand Filter Technology ................................................ $10.00
WWVTPE04 Small Diameter Effluent Sewers ................................. $10.00
Research WWVTPE05 Planning Wastewater Treatment for Small
Communities ................................................................ $10.00
WWBKRE13 Technical Evaluation of the Vertical Loop Reactor WWVTPE06 Upgrading Small Communities Wastewater
Process Technology ....................................................... $0.00 Treatment ..................................................................... $10.00
WWBLRE14 Methodology to Predict Nitrogen Loading from WWVTPE13 Municipal Wastewater: America’s Forgotten
Conventional Gravity On-Site Wastewater Resources ..................................................................... $15.00
Treatment Systems ......................................................... $3.75 WWVTPE16 Your Septic System: A Guide for Homeowners ......... $10.00
WWBKRE16 Preliminary Risk Assessment for Viruses in Municipal WWVTPE18 The Care and Feeding of Your Septic Tank ................ $10.00
Sewage Sludge Applied to Land ................................... $0.00
WWVTPE22 Surface Water Video ....................................................... Loan
WWBKRE17 Evaluation of Oxidation Ditches for Nutrient
Removal ....................................................................... $15.40 WWVTPE23 Ground Water Video Adventure ..................................... Loan
WWBLRE18 Rock-Plant Filter: An Alternative for Onsite Sewage WWVTPE24 Saving Water—The Conservation Video ....................... Loan
Treatment ....................................................................... $1.30 WWVTPE25 Careers in Water Quality ................................................ Loan
WWBLRE19 NPCA Septic Tank Project 1990-1995 ......................... $4.90 WWVTPE29 Artificial Marshland Treatment Systems .................... $10.00
WWBLRE20 Field Performance of the Waterloo Biofilter with WWVTPE33 Water Conservation—Managing Our Precious
Different Wastewaters ................................................... $3.60 Liquid Asset ................................................................. $12.00
WWBKRE21 Potential Effects of Water Softener Use on Septic WWVTPE34 Keeping Our Shores/Protecting Minnesota Waters:
Tank Soil Absorption On-Site Waste Water Systems .. $7.60 Shoreland Best Management Practices ....................... $20.00
WWBLRE22 Project Summary: Treatment of Municipal Waste-
waters by the Fluidized Bed Bioreactor Process ........... $1.15
WWBKRE23 Treatment Capability of Three Filters for Septic
Tank Effluent ............................................................... $15.70 NSFC Offers New Septic Tank
Information Folder
products
Technology Packages
WWBLGN09 Alternative Toilets Technology Package .................... $7.35*
The NSFC has developed a designer, installer, and pumper.
WWBKGN29 Sand Filter Technology Package ................................. $12.10
new Homeowner Onsite System The cost of this folder is 40 cents.
WWBKGN41 STEP Pressure Sewer Technology Package ................ $12.10
Recordkeeping Folder (Item
WWBKGN53 Spray and Drip Irrigation Technology Package .......... $15.55 #WWBLPE37). This folder The Homeowner Septic Tank Infor-
WWBKGN54 Constructed Wetlands General Information provides a place to record and mation Package (NSFC) (Item
Package ......................................................................... $10.10
store information about your #WWPKPE28) provides you with
WWBLGN57 Watershed Management Technology Package ............. $5.90
system and its maintenance. this folder packed with materials
WWBKGN61 Vertical Separation Distance Technology Package .... $9.95*
that give an overview on septic
WWBKGN66 Septic Tank Additives Technology Package ............... $12.10
On the cover of the folder are tanks for homeowners. Included
WWBKGN68 Water Conservation Effects on Onsite Wastewater sections for permit and local are several brochures on how to
Treatment Technology Package .................................. $10.80
health department information maintain a septic tank and how to
WWBKGN69 Design of Constructed Wetlands Technology
Package ........................................................................... $9.80 and for a description of the sys- recognize potential problems
WWBKGN70 Management Districts .................................................. $12.10 tem. This description consists (“Your Septic System: A Reference
WWBKGN74 Gravelless Drainfields Technology Package .............. $10.20 of a checklist that covers septic Guide for Homeowners,” “The Care
WWBKGN75 Operator Protection Information Packet (Aids Virus
tank and pump size, soil treat- and Feeding of Your Septic Tank
in Wastewater Treatment Plants) ............................... $13.40* ment system dimensions and System,” “So...Now You Own a
WWBKGN76 Sand Mound Technology Package ................................ $8.80 components, accessories, and Septic Tank,” and “Groundwater
WWBKGN77 Biomat Technology Package ....................................... $12.35 household information. Protection”). Also included are
WWBKGN80 Grinder Pump Pressure Sewer Technology three issues of the NSFC newsletter
Package ......................................................................... $13.25 Inside are tips for locating your Pipeline that focus on septic sys-
WWPCGN81 Disinfection Package ................................................... $20.55 system, space for a sketch of the tems and several photocopies of
WWBKGN82 Greywater Technology Package .................................. $7.80* system, a safety checklist, and a fact sheets dealing with septic tank
WWPCGN83 Site Evaluation Information Package .......................... $22.55 section for recording the names, maintenance. The package costs
WWPKGN86 Nonpoint Pointers: Understanding and Managing addresses, and certifications two dollars.
Nonpoint Source Pollution in Your Community .......... $0.00 numbers of your system’s
6 NSFC Products Insert–Spring 1998
Many New Products Available from the NSFC
During the past three months, the bioreactor process for secondary as well as for O&M training, There is no charge for this booklet,
National Small Flows Clearing- treatment and as a roughing treat- technical assistance, and education. aside from shipping and handling.
house (NSFC) has added a number ment process in plant upgrades. This fact sheet outlines criteria Ask for Item #GNBLRG01. (1994)
of new products to its inventory. for eligibility and where to go
Descriptions of some of these Along with process design elements, for additional information. Compendium of Tools for
products are provided below. stability of the process under high Watershed Assessment and
hydraulic peak loads typical of There is no charge for this fact sheet, TMDL Development
NPDES Compliance Inspection combined sewer systems also aside from shipping and handling. This 234-page book summarizes
Training Program: Student’s was evaluated. Ask for Item #FMFSFN27. (1997) the available models and tools that
Guide are used in water quality planning
This 117-page book is the The cost for this booklet is $1.15, Combined Sewer Overflows: and pollution control to answer a
student’s guide in the NPDES plus shipping and handling. Ask Guidance for Financial variety of questions, support water-
(National Pollutant Discharge for Item #WWBLRE22. (1988) Capability Assessment shed planning and analysis, and
Elimination System) Compliance and Schedule Development develop total maximum daily
Inspection Training Program. It U.S. EPA NPDES Permit This 64-page book discusses how loads (TMDLs).
provides directed study and ques- Writer’s Manual financial capability and other factors
tions on the U.S. Environmental This 294-page book provides new may be used to negotiate reasonable Three major categories of models
Protection Agency’s (EPA) 1994 permit writers with the fundamental compliance schedules for imple- are discussed: watershed loading,
NPDES Compliance Inspection regulatory framework and technical mentation of controls established receiving water, and ecological.
Manual, five of EPA’s 1990 considerations that support the by the EPA’s final Combined The book includes a wide range
NPDES Compliance Monitoring development of wastewater dis- Sewer Overflow Control Policy. of tools and offers selection criteria
Inspector Training Modules (Over- charge permits as required under Issued on April 11, 1994, this to assist the user in choosing the
view, Legal Issues, Biomonitoring, the NPDES program; it also may policy establishes a consistent model(s) appropriate for a particu-
Sampling Procedures, and Labora- serve as a reference for experi- national approach for controlling lar application.
tory Analysis), the Clean Water enced permit writers. discharges from combined sewer
Act, and pertinent regulations. systems through the NPDES There is no charge for this book,
The manual describes the permit permit program. aside from shipping and handling.
The cost for this book is $16.85, components and the permitting Ask for Item #WWBKGN96. (1997)
plus shipping and handling. Ask process, different types of effluent There is no charge for this book,
for Item #WWBKTR01. (1995) limits, the legal and technical con- aside from shipping and handling. Watershed Protection:
siderations involved in limit devel- Ask for Item #FMBKFN26. (1997) A Project Focus
NPDES Compliance Inspection opment, and other permit conditions. This 138-page book is a guide to
Video Workbook: Inspecting a Introduction to Water Quality watershed protection designed for
Parshall Flume This manual is not intended to be Standards state water quality managers. It
This 28-page booklet instructs a stand-alone reference document, This 40-page booklet provides focuses on one aspect of the Water-
NPDES inspectors on the proper and it identifies and references general information about the shed Protection Approach: develop-
procedures for evaluating the accu- other guidance documents nation’s water quality standards ing watershed-specific programs or
racy of flow measurements using a throughout the text, providing program and is intended to serve projects. The book provides a blue-
Parshall flume, a common primary information on how these docu- as an introductory document for print for designing and implement-
flow measuring device used to ments can be obtained. the general public and for those ing watershed projects and includes
measure wastewater flows at treat- unfamiliar with the program. references and case studies for
ment facilities. While it was pre- There is no charge for this book, specific elements of the process.
pared to be used in conjunction with aside from shipping and handling. Begun under the Clean Water Act
the video “Inspecting a Parshall Ask for Item #WWBKRG51. (1996) of 1972, the program requires that There is no charge for this book,
Flume,” this workbook also can be states, U.S. Territories, and Indian aside from shipping and handling.
used as an independent training tool. Operator Health and Safety— Tribes authorized to administer the Ask for Item #GNBKGN08. (1995)
Computer Search program adopt water quality stan-
The cost for this booklet is $4.05, This 17-page booklet lists article dards for each waterbody within Federal Funding Sources for
plus shipping and handling. Ask citations and abstracts on the topic their boundaries. Small Community Wastewater
for Item #WWBLTR02. (1995) of wastewater operator health and Systems
safety from the NSFC’s Biblio- The booklet discusses how water This 31-page booklet highlights
Inspectors Guide for Evalua- graphic Database. quality standards define the use 10 federal programs that help state,
tion of Municipal Wastewater for a waterbody and describe the tribal, and local officials identify
Treatment Plants The cost for this booklet is $2.45, criteria to achieve that use, how possible funding sources, who
This 359-page book is both a train- plus shipping and handling. Ask antidegradation policies are to contact, and how to apply.
ing tool and a reference source to for Item #WWBLCM22. (1997) adopted and implemented, and While this publication describes
help state and EPA inspectors evalu- how water quality standards are some drinking water programs, it
ate the operation and maintenance Hardship Grants Program for adopted. There is a glossary of focuses mainly on wastewater.
(O&M) of wastewater treatment Rural Communities terms and a section on obtaining
plants. It was developed in conjunc- This two-page fact sheet details the additional information about There is no charge for this booklet,
tion with an EPA O&M inspection Hardship Grants Program for Rural water quality standards. aside from shipping and handling.
form and includes checklists for Communities, which was created by Ask for Item #FMBLFN29. (1997)
individual unit processes. the 1996 Congressional Appropria-
tions Act to help small, disadvan-
There is no charge for this book, taged rural communities address If you would like to see a listing of all of this quarter’s new
aside from shipping and handling. their wastewater treatment needs. products, refer to the list of currently available NSFC
Ask for Item #WWBKOM19. (1979) products in the four inner pages of this insert. New products
The grants are made by the EPA are indicated by a shaded box.
Project Summary: Treatment of to each state to provide financial
Municipal Wastewaters by the assistance to eligible rural commu-
Fluidized Bioreactor Process nities for planning, design, and
This eight-page booklet reports on construction of treatment facilities,
the application of the fluidized bed
NSFC Products Insert–Spring 1998 7
Wastewater Discussion Groups Are on the Web
The online discussion groups of the (NODP) discussion group. The versus percolation tests, and antibac- As well as being able to post
National Small Flows Clearinghouse NODP group allows users to con- terial cleansers. There are more than and respond to questions, users
(NSFC) are the newest addition to nect across the country with people a dozen others, and anyone is free to of the NSFC Web site can make
the services offered by the NSFC to who are interested in the NODP or begin a new discussion. use of a special “chat” feature
Internet users who visit its Web site. are involved in demonstration that allows two or more users
projects of their own. In the NODP discussion group, to communicate in a real-time,
There are two distinct discussion topics include older onsite demon- instant-message format.
groups that users can participate Topics posted for discussion thus stration projects, permaculture,
in: the NSFC discussion group far in the NSFC group include and low-pressure sewer systems. Those interested in participating
(for small community wastewater septic tanks and grease, odors— Anyone interested in demonstration in these discussion groups can
issues in general) and the National house vents, soils evaluation projects is invited to join in or add access the Web site at http://
Onsite Demonstration Project new topics. www.nsfc.wvu.edu.
To Place an Order:
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8 NSFC Products Insert–Spring 1998
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14 SMALL FLOWS-Spring 1998; Vol.12, No. 2
E-train Offers Onsite Training Centers Update;
Free Training Newsletter Available
newsletters
One of the hottest topics in waste- ing centers have gained momen- practical tips and techniques for
water training lately has been the tum in the last few years and some successful instruction. It also
rapid growth in the number of of the challenges they’ve faced includes listings of upcoming
onsite training centers around the such as funding, staffing, opera- training events and training re-
country. At last count, approxi- tions, and selecting and obtaining sources such as books, manuals,
mately 30 centers were either oper- demonstration technologies. The and videos.
ating or in the development stage. summer issue will focus on recent
developments and what representa- Operators, regulatory officials,
To keep those in the field up-to-date tives see as the future for their local officials, technical assistance
with recent onsite training center centers and onsite wastewater specialists, and those involved in
developments, E-train, the environ- training overall. health and safety can find informa- (800) 624-8301 or (304) 293-4191,
mental training newsletter for small tion to help them in educating or write to NETCSC, West Virginia
communities, will publish a special Published quarterly by the Na- others, whether co-workers, local University, P.O. Box 6064,
two-part series on the subject. tional Environmental Training officials, or the general public. Morgantown, WV 26506-6064.
Center for Small Communities The newsletter may also be ac-
The spring issue—published in (NETCSC), E-train covers exem- To receive your free subscription cessed through NETCSC’s Web
March—explores how these train- plary training programs, feature to E-train, including the series site at http://www.netc.wvu.edu.
articles relevant to the field, and about onsite training centers, call
The National Small Flows Clearinghouse,
established by the U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency under the federal Clean
Water Act (CWA) in 1977 and located at
West Virginia University, gathers and
NDWC Publishes Source Water Protection Issue
distributes information about small Conservationists have long held Other articles include an introduc-
community wastewater systems. Small
Flows is published quarterly. the idea that we need to treat the tion to geographic information
environment as a holistic system— systems, a computer-based tool for
Small Flows that we all live downstream. Once mapping and analyzing; a feature
Sponsored by:
a water supply is contaminated, the on land trusts, an increasingly
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency financial cost of remediation can popular method of protecting
Steve Hogye, Project Officer be extraordinary and the ecological source water by purchasing and
Municipal Support Division
cost inestimable. preserving open spaces for public
Office of Wastewater Management
Washington, D.C. benefit; and a review of the U.S.
The 1996 amendments to the Safe Environmental Protection
National Small Flows Clearinghouse Drinking Water Act, the primary Agency's State Source Water As-
West Virginia University
John L. Mori, Ph.D., Manager,
statute that protects our nation’s sessment and Protection Programs
WVU Environmental Services public drinking water supplies, now Guidance. This recently finalized
and Training Division mandate source water protection. document will be states’ source
Peter Casey, P. Eng. water protection “bible.”
NSFC Program Coordinator
The National Drinking Water offering, “Water Treatment Plant
Jeremy Canody, Interim Editor
Natalie Eddy, Staff Writer Clearinghouse (NDWC), a sister The publication includes a histori- Residuals Management.”
Daniel Gloyd, Graphic Designer organization to the National Small cal piece that tells the story of New
Flows Clearinghouse, has devoted York City’s first source water For further information or to re-
International Standard Serial Number
1060-0035 an entire issue of its quarterly news- protection project and provides an ceive a free subscription to On
letter On Tap to source water interesting glimpse into 19th cen- Tap, call the NDWC at (800) 624-
Article Submissions protection, beginning with an tury water system politics and 8301 or (304) 293-4191. To order
Small Flows welcomes letters to the editor, educational feature that discusses engineering. the special source water issue,
articles, news items, photographs, or other
materials for publication. Please address watersheds, aquifers, well-head request Spring 1998 On Tap, Vol-
correspondence to: protection, and the sources and One of On Tap’s most popular ume 7, Issue 1. On Tap is also
dangers posed by drinking water features is the “Tech Brief,” a available on the Internet and may
Editor, Small Flows be downloaded from NDWC’s Web
contaminants. four-page fact sheet. This issue
National Small Flows Clearinghouse
West Virginia University includes the newsletter’s seventh site at http://www.ndwc.wvu.edu.
P.O. Box 6064
Morgantown, WV 26506-6064
1-800-624-8301 or
(304) 293-4191
Products Insert Highlights Half Off Special
http://www.nsfc.wvu.edu The National Small Flows Clear- cost very little to begin with this is A special feature focusing on
Reprints inghouse (NSFC) products insert, an offer that can not be passed up. NSFC products that provide infor-
For permission to reprint information found in the middle of this issue, mation on aerobic treatment units
appearing in Small Flows, please send a offers a wealth of information on For more information on these (ATUs) is also included to comple-
letter of request to the editor.
all products and many services that products or to see a list of NSFC's ment this issue's Q&A topic on
Small Flows is funded by the the NSFC offers. products, see the insert. Shipping ATUs (see page 11).
U.S.Environmental Protection Agency. and handling charges still apply.
The contents of this newsletter do not This particular insert highlights the In addition, articles on the latest
necessarily reflect the views and policies
of the Environmental Protection Agency,
"NSFC Spring Half Off Sale" on Also included in this insert are new edition of the Small Flows Journal
nor does mention of trade names or all product orders placed on June products that have been added and information on how to log on
commercial products constitute endorse- 22 and 23. Customers calling, since the winter issue. Brief sum- to NSFC discussion groups on the
ment or recommendation for use. faxing, or e-mailing their orders on maries about each new product are Web are also included in this prod-
those two days will receive 50 included, as well as their prices ucts insert.
Small Flows is printed percent off of the listed price. and item numbers for ordering.
on recycled paper. Since most of NSFC's products
SMALL FLOWS-Spring 1998; Vol.12, No. 2 15
Clean Water Action Plan Highlights Earth Day Goals
by Margaret McKenzie This is also an appropriate occa- areas along the Tualatin River,
NSFC Contributing Writer sion to recognize that, despite threatening to continue the ban
significant progress, the challenge until wastewater disposal problems
Congress has enacted nearly 40 for all of us in protecting our were solved.
major federal environmental laws nation’s waters remains unfin-
since the first Earth Day on March ished. The health of our people EPA's administration of the
20, 1970. Of these laws, environ- continues to be threatened by ex- CWA
pollution prevention
mentalists identify the U.S. Envi- posure to harmful organisms in our In his October 18 memo, Gore
ronmental Protection Agency’s waters; consumption of fish from gives EPA high marks for its efforts
(EPA) 1972 Clean Water Act many of our waters presents a to protect our nation’s waters,
(CWA) as the most successful. threat to the most vulnerable stating, “In 25 years, the Clean
One of its greatest achievements, among us; polluted runoff has for Water Act has stopped billions of
they note, has been to control point too long eluded control under pounds of pollution from flowing culture (USDA) and EPA collabo-
source pollution from factories and conventional regulatory ap- into our rivers, lakes, and streams, rate with all affected agencies and
communities. proaches.” and doubled the number of water- target the following three goals:
ways that are safe for swimming
Before this law, more than seven EPA’s Clean Water Challenge and fishing.” • Enhanced protection from public
million tons of untreated wastewa- From the smallest community to health threats posed by water
ter were dumped daily into our the largest city, approximately half This is certainly true for the pollution,
waterways, and less than half the of the U.S. population gets its Cuyahoga, Holston, and Tualatin • more effective control of polluted
nation’s population had access to drinking water from rivers and rivers. Today, Cleveland’s runoff, and
adequate wastewater treatment lakes. However, prior to 1972, the riverfront has been transformed • promotion of water quality
facilities, according to the Water quality of these waters was well into a prosperous waterfront com- protection on a watershed basis.
Environment Federation. below the standards necessary to munity. Once little more than a
be considered safe for drinking. waste site, it is now home to res- Protecting Public Health
Waters were too polluted for fish- EPA needed to convince industries taurants, parks, sports facilities, According to an October 15, 1997,
ing, swimming, or sustaining wild- that dumping their waste into the and museums. press release by the Sierra Club,
life. Today, over 60 percent of the waterways would cost the nation there was a total of 2,193 fish
nation’s waters support their in- dearly in health impairment, lost In Tennessee’s Holston River, consumption bans and 3,685 beach
tended uses, but environmentalists recreational resources, and a de- pollutants discharged into the river closures and advisories nationwide
say efforts to improve water qual- cline in the quality of life; and have been reduced by 99 percent, in 1996.
ity must continue. President Bill EPA had plenty of examples it and the number of fish species
Clinton and Vice President Al could point to. living in the river has increased Of particular concern is the runoff
Gore concur. from three to 19. In fact, official of nitrogen and phosphorous in the
Cleveland, Ohio (June 22, 1969) surveys have found an increase in water, since scientists suspect the
Clinton recognized how far this Used as a dumping ground for the endangered bald eagle and over-enrichment of these nutrients
country has come since the intro- industrial waste and raw sewage, river otter and the rare double- to be a factor in Pfiesteria
duction of the CWA in his January the Cuyahoga River burst into crested cormorant now nesting in piscicidsa, the toxic organism that
27, 1998, State of the Union Ad- flames when sparks from a passing the Holston River Basin. has caused numerous fish kills and
dress to Congress. Clinton stated train ignited the floating debris and threatened public health.
that our nation’s waters have im- industrial chemicals that polluted Urban areas along the Tualatin River
proved immensely since then, but the river. in Oregon are now home to two Therefore, Gore has instructed
added that with approximately 40 wetlands, various wildlife preserves, EPA, in conjunction with the
percent of our country’s waters Kingsport, Tennessee (1969) and six riverfront parks that offer a states, to develop and implement
being no better off than they were With 42 separate point sources variety of water recreation. a criteria system for nitrogen and
over 25 years ago, a great deal still dumping wastewater into the South phosphorous runoff by the year
needs to be done. Fork of the Holston River, Tennes- With the help of new wastewater 2000.
see officials named it one of the treatment plants, water in the
The initiative to do something most polluted waters in the state. Tualatin is cleaner than the water One example of controlling nitro-
about this country’s remaining that drains into it from natural gen and phosphorous runoff is the
water quality problems stems from According to fisheries biologists sources, and construction once proper design, installation, and
a directive from Gore who marked from the Tennessee Valley Author- banned in this area is now flourishing. operation of onsite disposal sys-
the anniversary of the CWA last ity, it was common in this five- tems. The Office of Water has
October by ordering EPA and mile stretch of river to find tumors Gore’s Clean Water Initiatives issued a nonpoint source fact sheet
other agencies to develop a plan to and deformities on some species of Although half of America’s water- (EPA841-F-96-004G), which
guide future efforts to clean up fish, particularly the sunfish, while ways meet CWA’s water quality states that “these septic systems
waterways. other species of fish sensitive to standards, still half remain polluted. should be situated away from open
pollution, such as the smallmouth waters and sensitive resources such
In his October 18, 1997, Memo- bass, had abandoned the river. This has prompted Gore to man- as wetlands and floodplains. These
randum to Heads of Departments date in his October 18 memo that a systems should also be inspected,
and Agencies, Gore not only rec- Washington County, Oregon (1969) comprehensive plan be developed pumped out, and repaired at regu-
ognizes the CWA’s past achieve- The Tualatin River is the major (with help from the Secretary of lar intervals. Household mainte-
ments but also identifies its future water source and a wildlife refuge Agriculture, Dan Glickman and the nance of septic systems can play a
challenges. in this suburban area, yet 10 cities Administrator of EPA, Carol M. large role in preventing excessive
and 16 sanitary districts dumped Browner) to address nonpoint system discharges.”
He states, “Rivers once polluted their untreated wastewater into the source pollution (reducing agricul-
enough to catch fire, lakes once rivers and streams that fed into it. tural runoff and developing com- Preventing Polluted Runoff
devoid of life, and streams once In an effort to stop this pollution, bined sewer overflow controls). State and tribal water quality agen-
used as open sewers are now re- the Oregon Environmental Quality cies agree that nitrogen and phos-
stored centerpieces of healthy Commission banned all new con- In developing the plan, Gore asks
communities because of the CWA. struction in the once thriving urban that the U.S. Department of Agri- Continued on next page
16 SMALL FLOWS-Spring 1998; Vol.12, No. 2
Continued from previous page The federal government is already Gore has directed the USDA to designed to spark networking
setting a good example according work with local landowners to among water preservation groups
phorous runoff is a major concern, to a June/July 1996 bulletin in develop a plan for nonpoint source and to spur volunteerism among
and they identify animal feeding Nonpoint Source News published pollution in watersheds that comprise the general public, schools, librar-
operations as the primary source of by the Terrene Institute, a not-for- both public and private lands. ies, and children’s organizations.
runoff of these nutrients. profit organization that links busi-
ness with government, academia, In addition, the USDA in consulta- Information in the catalog includes
This initiative, therefore, requires and citizens to improve the envi- tion with the Department of Inte- a directory of existing partner-
EPA to revise outdated regulations ronment. An article entitled “Strat- rior, is required to develop a plan ships, volunteer opportunities,
governing polluted runoff and egy to Reduce Polluted Runoff to address runoff from abandoned environmental conditions, drinking
charges the U.S. Department of from Federal Lands in D.C.,” out- mines, eliminate unnecessary water supplies, land use practices,
Agriculture (USDA) with guiding lines how the federal government roads, improve road maintenance, and population statistics.
states in developing and presenting has initiated its first comprehen- and ensure coordinated watershed
proposals that address water qual- sive effort to improve stormwater management practices for federal, For more information on the Clean
ity, soil erosion, and fish and wild- runoff in the District of Columbia. state, local, and tribal governments. Water Action Plan, visit EPA's
life habitat needs. Office of Water’s Web site at
Some newly-established practices For this Clean Water Action Plan http://www.epa.gov/cleanwater.
The USDA has already success- are improved management of ani- to succeed, both Clinton and Gore
fully helped some states, such as mal waste at the National Zoo, believe there must be a cooperative This Web site highlights Clinton’s
Maryland and Minnesota, in economically and environmentally approach among federal, state, and State of the Union Address, pro-
achieving these goals. beneficial landscaping methods, local agencies and tribal govern- vides an outline of the Clean Water
reduction in the use of pesticides, ments. Action Plan, explains the develop-
The key program for this federal- and a conversion of 120 postal ment of the plan, and provides
state partnership is the Conserva- service vehicles to natural gas. In addition, the plan must be sup- related information and Web links.
tion Reserve Enhancement Pro- ported by public participation and
gram (CREP) which provides Not only is polluted runoff de- must include all appropriate regu- For those who would like to estab-
direct payments to farmers who stroying our waters, but runoff latory, incentive, compliance, lish a watershed group, detailed
retire erodible acres of land from from agricultural operations, urban enforcement, and budgetary steps. information for getting started is
production or who restore wetlands development, and streets annually provided by those groups that are
and stream buffers on environmen- destroy an average of 117,000 How can we help? already at work protecting our
tally sensitive lands. acres of wetlands, according to While each one of us should do all waters.
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. we can to protect and restore our
The USDA will continue to notify rivers, streams, wetlands, lakes, To locate your watershed and to
states through the Federal Register To reverse this trend, the vice groundwater, and estuaries, EPA view a list of watershed organiza-
of the availability of this program president has required NOAA and challenges us specifically to join or tions, search the Surf Your
and will help these states complete EPA to develop a strategy that will establish a local watershed group. Watershed Web site at http://
pending proposals. ensure a net gain of as many as www.epa.gov/surf/adopt/diff.html.
100,000 acres of wetlands by the To help in this effort, the EPA has
Major constituents of nutrient year 2005. This strategy includes compiled a national catalog of If you do not have Internet access,
pollution in our oceans are due to placing two million miles of buffer watershed information. A joint call Adopt a Watershed, EPA's
human population increase, in- strips along streams to trap fertiliz- effort of the Office of Water and Office of Water, toll free at (888)
creased chemical-based farming ers, animal manure, and other the Office of Oceans, Wetlands, 478-2051 and ask for information
and intensive animal husbandry, polluted runoff. and Watersheds, this catalog is on watershed groups.
and the expanding use of fossil
fuel. Yet, population and develop- In addition, the National Wetlands
ment trends indicate that by 2010 Inventory (NWI) of the U.S. Fish
Catalog Provides Watershed Funding Sources
more than half of the nation will and Wildlife Service will continue
live in coastal towns and cities; to monitor the status of wetlands The Catalog of Federal Funding Sources for Watershed
without proper management, our through their Status and Trends of Protection provides information for state and local
waterways could be devastated by Wetlands in the Conterminous watershed professionals and groups on federal funding
raw sewage and waste from such United States report. programs that may assist them in funding various aspects
development. of watershed protection and local-level watershed projects.
This report is used to help resource The catalog contains one-page fact sheets for each of the
To prevent this, the president and managers gauge the success of 52 sources for grants and loans that indicate what types of
vice president have set June 30, efforts to protect and restore wet- activities are funded and who is eligible. Contacts and
1998, and December 31, 1999, as lands. Congressional mandates Internet sites are also provided for each program, as well
deadlines for the National Oceanic require NWI to produce these as additional publications and Web sites on funding.
and Atmospheric Administration reports at 10-year intervals.
(NOAA) and EPA to respectively Copies of the document are available for free from the
meet in establishing and approving Ensuring Community-Based National Center for Environmental Publications and
all 29 state coastal nonpoint pollution Watershed Management Information (NCEPI) in Cincinnati. Call (800) 490-9198 or
control programs (this includes Under this initiative, EPA will (513) 489-8190 and request U.S. Environmental Protection
states that border the Great Lakes). expand technical and financial Agency document EPA841-B-97-008. You may also fax
assistance to ensure that agricul- orders to (513) 489-8695. This document is also
Not only does Gore expect the tural producers in 1,000 critical available on the Watershed Academy home page at
federal government to help states rural watersheds have the neces- http://www.epa.gov/OWOW/watershed/wacademy/
in achieving water quality standards, sary tools to reduce polluted runoff fund.html.
but he also expects the federal and to comply with current stan-
government to model effective dards.
watershed planning itself for lands
it owns, manages, or controls.
SMALL FLOWS-Spring 1998; Vol.12, No. 2 17
Land-Use Planning and Septic Disposal Systems
by Margaret McKenzie cess can be found in A Manual of Once all the information for land- quantity and quality of open space
NSFC Contributing Writer Build-Out Analysis, Lacy, 1990.) use regulations and design guide- used in the two designs.
lines are incorporated into the
Prior to the 1987 Federal Water Conservation and Develop- land-use plan, the next step is to With OSDD, 50 to 70 percent of
Quality Act, the U.S. Environmen- ment Map find a pattern of development that buildable land is set aside for open
tal Protection Agency (EPA) This second tool can be helpful in can simultaneously protect natural space before development begins.
awarded communities construction developing a land-use plan that resources and satisfy the needs of This open space is in a location
grants to pay for 55 to 85 percent shows sections of a parcel to pre- public officials, developers, and and a configuration that is related
of most project costs. State revolv- serve and to develop. This map residents. to its ultimate purpose like farm-
ing funds, established by the 1987 includes areas for permanent pres- ing, outdoor recreation, and land-
amendments to the Clean Water ervation such as wetlands; flood- Development Design scape protection. Development
Act, are replacing these grants. plains; significant wildlife habitats; According to Randall Arendt, vice areas are then designed around these
Now communities may borrow land along lakes, river, and oceans; president of Natural Lands Trust (a features. With cluster develop-
some of the money needed to build and woodlands. Development Pennsylvania-based conservation ment, however, only 25 to 30 per-
or upgrade wastewater systems. should be regulated by well-writ- group), a pattern of development cent of buildable land is set aside
Unlike grants, this money must be ten, legally defensible zoning that can satisfy all involved parties for open space; and it is usually
repaid to the fund so that it can be ordinances and should be limited is open space design development land that is unsuitable for develop-
borrowed by other communities. ment or conservation.
Figure 1
Moving from grants to loans has Another difference is the density of
caused local officials to rethink development between the two de-
options for choosing an affordable, signs. With OSDD, full density is
effective wastewater system that achievable for layouts in which 50
will support both current and fu- percent or more of the uncon-
ture needs. In selecting a system, strained land is conserved as perma-
officials need to determine the land nent, undivided open space. With
use that will support the intended cluster development, full density
growth and development of a com- can use the entire parcel for devel-
munity (commercial, industrial, opment, with no open space.
Drainfield/
residential, or a mix of these uses), Sand Mound
the density and layout of its hous- Easement Area Does OSDD limit sewage
ing, its public utilities; community system choices?
facilities, and transportation. One Open Space Arendt shows how the flexibility
tool to help answer these questions inherent in the design of OSDD
is a carefully crafted land-use plan. subdivisions make them superior
planning
to conventional layouts in their
Developing a Land-Use Plan Reducing lot sizes within a development site can sometimes help subdivi- ability to provide adequate sewage
Currently, the zoning ordinance sion designers locate homes on soils that can better support conventional treatment. For example, houselots
acts as the primary tool that a septic systems, rather than using larger spaces with marginal soils that are arranged on the piece of prop-
may or may not meet legal requirements. Source: Rural by Design: Main-
community uses to direct and erty that has deeper, better-drained
taining Small Town Character by Randall Arendt
manage land use, and subdivision soils rather than spreading them
regulations are the principal means to locations outside conservation (OSDD). This design resembles a out with some house lots sited on
by which a community controls the areas. To determine if a site can classic rural village settlement and soil that barely meets minimum
layout of new and proposed streets. handle new development, planners clearly illustrates how efficient standards for septic approval.
However, sometimes planners are should prepare an environmental urban development can effectively
unaware of the extent or type of inventory. This inventory includes reduce the total number of acres of He points out that a practical alter-
development these regulations and an analysis of slopes, soils, and land required for the same amount native to central sewage disposal
ordinances allow. Two tools to depth to the water table and bed- of growth. facilities are individually owned
help planners realistically view the rock, floodplains, wetlands, ero- septic systems located within con-
development that can occur are a sion, and sedimentation character- OSDD counters unplanned subur- servation areas. Since there is no
build-out map and a map of con- istics. The information can be used ban sprawl that requires more engineering reason to require that
servation and development. to insure development is directed roads, more sewer and water ex- septic filter beds be located within
toward areas that make sense from tensions, produces greater environ- each houselot, these filter beds can
Build-Out Map the standpoint of infrastructure mental impacts, and ultimately be located under playing fields or
A build-out map shows the prob- provision, service delivery, and may consume every unprotected conservation meadows in the same
able location of houses and new natural resource management. acre of building ground. In addi- way they typically occupy posi-
roads, which legally based upon tion to preserving land and de- tions under suburban lawns.
current zoning ordinances, could Some resources for developing an creasing the cost of a community’s
be constructed on vacant and environmental inventory are state infrastructure, it can also increase For this particular plan to work, the
buildable land remaining within a and regional planning agencies, developers’ profits and landowner final approved subdivision plan
community. To be credible, this your local cooperative extension equity. must clearly show which parts of
map must not project development service, U.S. Geological Survey the undivided open space are desig-
into areas where natural or regula- topographic sheets, and U.S. De- Open Space Development nated for septic disposal, with each
tory constraints would prevent it. partment of Agriculture Soil Con- Arendt details the steps for creat- lot’s disposal area graphically indi-
servation Service soil data. As ing an OSDD community in his cated through dotted lines extend-
This map is an inexpensive and infrastructure changes, such as book Rural by Design. He cautions ing out into the conservation land.
effective tool for showing local constructing a new road, or that OSDD is often confused with
residents and officials the pattern changes in water capacity, docu- “cluster development,” a design Who maintains the systems?
of development allowed by exist- ments should be updated to reflect that is not well received by many Maintenance and repair of septic
ing zoning and subdivision regula- these changes. communities. One difference be- systems remain the responsibility
tions. (A detailed step-by-step tween the two, he explains, is the
description of this mapping pro- Continued on next page
18 SMALL FLOWS-Spring 1998; Vol.12, No. 2
Continued from previous page
Figure 2
of individual lot owners. To ensure This graphic shows
the system is properly cared for, how individual
Better soils septic system
the homeowner can be required to
obtain an operating permit that is disposal areas can
annually reviewed. Depending be located on
upon state regulations, these per- adjacent conserva-
tion lands where the
mits may be required by the state,
better soils are
county, or municipal government. found.
Wet Wet Wet Source: Growing
Another approach to monitor proper Greener by Natural
operation of a septic system is Lands Trust, Inc.
creating a homeowners’ association.
This group could be authorized to Marginal soils
pump individual septic tanks on a
regular basis to ensure that sludge
never rises to a level where it can “Cost Effective Site Planning: percent. Clearly, people were willing environments to treat the wastewa-
flow into the filter beds and clog Single Family Development,” to spend more for equivalent homes ter. Natural systems include apply-
them. Should a homeowner not illustrates cost savings through on smaller lots when they included ing wastewater to the land where it
follow through with required main- compact residential development other neighborhood amenities. interacts with soil and vegetation.
tenance and repair, the homeowners’ designs. For example, on a 166-
association could hire a contractor acre parcel in Ohio, site develop- Choosing Your System Mechanical systems are engineered
to do the work and then place a lien ment costs per dwelling were one- Once your land-use and design treatment facilities that treat large
against the individual’s home until third less for the more compact plans have been defined, you are quantities of wastewater in a small
payment is received. layout ($8,512 versus $12,856). ready to look at the wastewater amount of space. These systems
Even though both designs pro- systems available to you: onsite usually need greater operator atten-
Developers Reap Benefits duced the same number of houses, systems, cluster systems, and cen- tion and use greater amounts of
With OSDD, the developer is the compact design preserved three tralized systems. (A helpful re- power than natural systems.
entitled to the same number of lots times more property as open space source is EPA’s September 1987
as he would ordinarily receive, but than did the conventional layout. issue of It’s Your Choice.) EPA lists the following consider-
he is restricted from spreading Additional cost savings also could ations for choosing your system:
these lots out across the entire be in building roads and, if appli-According to EPA, septic systems
parcel. Instead, he builds houses cable, water and sewer lines. generally work best on large, rela- • construction and equipment
on small lots and preserves 50 to tively level, well-drained lots with costs of the system,
70 percent of the parcel as com- Landowner Equity deep, moderately permeable soil. • operation and maintenance costs
mon open space. The area chosen Landowners find that houses built Simplicity of operation is a major of the system,
for preservation must conform to with open space can appreciate at a advantage of onsite systems. With • user fees needed to pay for all of
those identified in the map of con- greater rate than those built using periodic inspection, servicing, and the community’s costs to build
servation and development. Other- the conventional land-consumptive pumping out of the septic tank and operate the system,
wise, the preserved land might approach. Arendt provides several every three to five years, these • ease of operation and maintenance,
only contain undesirable areas examples in his book. systems can provide years of low- • local environmental impacts of
such as stormwater management cost, trouble-free service. the facilities, such as odor or
facilities and land under high- One example tracks more than generation of sludge,
tension power lines. 800 property sales transactions over EPA explains that cluster systems • public acceptance of the project,
a 21-year period for 227 homes in are an alternative for a community • performance reliability of the
Although developers might reason Amherst, Massachusetts. It com- where onsite systems can not be technology,
that smaller lots mean reduced pares two subdivisions: Orchard used. With this system, you need a • ability to expand to meet future
asking prices, just the opposite is Valley and Echo Hill. Homes in low-cost, reliable, and easily oper- needs, and
often true. Buying trends show both developments had 1,600 ated treatment facility to support • regulatory requirements.
little or no correlation between lot square feet of floor space and sold the system. Alternative sewers
size and price because houses built for average prices of $26,300 and collect wastewater and transport it Individuals and organizations that
using the conservation design $26,900 respectively. Orchard a short distance to a community can assist you at little or no cost
include a parklike setting. Homes Valley had one-half acre houselots, treatment facility. include state water pollution control
can be placed close to the conser- while Echo Hill had one-quarter agencies, health departments, the
vation area, backing up to wood- acre houselots. The major difference EPA points to centralized treat- National Small Flows Clearinghouse
lands or hedgerows for privacy and was in the layout of the subdivisions. ment for communities that have (NSFC), local cooperative exten-
fronting onto a central common, areas of fairly dense development. sion services, and the Rural Com-
wildflower meadow, or open field. Orchard Valley included only a These areas may be unsuitable for munity Assistance Program that can
Contrast that to houses built under small amount of open space either onsite or cluster systems or be reached at (703) 771-8636.
a conventional design that uses all around a pond. Conversely, Echo regulatory agencies may prohibit
available space and provides a Hill preserved half of its parcel as alternative systems in certain ar- Arendt’s book Rural by Design can
view of only other houses. In fact, common open space. This layout eas. In these situations, the best be purchased by contacting the
evidence indicates that open space included a 3.7-acre centrally lo- solution may be to combine con- American Planning Association,
enhances sales in two ways: in- cated playing field, an extensive ventional or alternative sewers 122 South Michigan Avenue, Suite
creased absorption rates and higher woodland trail network, and two with centralized treatment. 1600, Chicago, IL 60603-6107.
prices through premiums added to ponds (one of which included a
the prices of lots that abut the swimming area) and an adjacent Although there are numerous types To purchase It's Your Choice, call
conservation areas. tennis court and baseball diamond. of centralized treatment facilities, the NSFC at (800) 624-8301 or
After two decades, the apprecia- the two general kinds are natural (304) 293-4191 and request Item
A 1986 study by the National tion of houses in Echo Hill out- and mechanical. Natural systems #FMBKGNO1. The cost is $7.50
Association of Home Builders, paced Orchard Valley by 12.7 use soils, vegetation, or aquatic plus shipping.
SMALL FLOWS-Spring 1998; Vol.12, No. 2 19
EPA Programs and Initiatives Help Small Communities
ment periods (up to 20 years). equate wastewater facilities. This planning, design, and construction
There are many Environmental
States may also customize loan must be done at your IHS area of publicly owned treatment works
Protection Agency (EPA)
terms to meet the needs of small office in April and May to meet a or alternative wastewater treat-
programs and initiatives that
and disadvantaged communities. June deadline for submissions; ments such as onsite systems.
deal with wastewater concerns. final priority lists are available in These grants also may be used to
Many of the programs are aimed For more information about the December. The ISA Program uses provide training, technical assis-
at helping small communities, CWSRF or for a program repre- the SDS to identify high priority tance, and educational programs
those with fewer than 10,000 sentative in your state, call (202) wastewater projects for funding, on the operation and maintenance
people, ensure that their local 260-7359; fax (202) 260-1827; and the EPA and the IHS work of wastewater treatment systems.
wastewater systems comply write to Clean Water State Revolv- together to decide which projects
with state and federal regula- ing Fund Branch, Mailcode 4204, to fund. You can obtain a copy of If your community has fewer than
tions. The following programs U.S. Environmental Protection the April 1988 guidance document 3,000 residents, it can qualify for
are only a sampling of what is Agency, 401 M Street SW, Wash- titled Guidelines and Requirements hardship assistance from your
ington, DC 20460; or visit the for Applying for Grants from the state’s program if it also meets the
available to small communities
Office of Wastewater Management Indian Set-Aside Program and its following criteria:
that need help and guidance.
Web site at http://www. epa.gov/ March 1995 addendum from your
owm on the Financial Assistance— EPA Regional Indian Set-Aside • the community lacks access to
General Information Web page. Coordinator. centralized wastewater treatment
Clean Water State Revolving
or collection systems or needs
Fund (CWSRF)
Clean Water Act Indian Set- EPA’s OWM is stepping up its improvements to onsite waste-
Individuals, municipalities, and
Aside Grant Program efforts to increase tribal awareness water treatment systems;
other organizations can take ad-
assistance
Native Americans who are mem- of and access to ISA grants and • the proposed project will im-
vantage of low-cost state loans for
bers of federally recognized Indian has recently released a brochure prove public health or reduce
water quality projects by applying
tribes with control over reservation that describes the ISA Grant Pro- environmental risk;
to their state’s Clean Water State
lands, Alaskan Native villages, and gram with points of contact for • the community’s per capita
Revolving Fund (SRF) program.
tribes on former reservations in further information. A new booklet income is less than 80 percent of
Each state has one as a result of the
Oklahoma are eligible for grants provides answers to frequently the national average; and
1987 Clean Water Act (CWA),
for the construction of wastewater asked questions about the ISA • its unemployment rate exceeds
which allowed the states and
facilities through the CWA Indian program, including the grant appli- the national average by one
Puerto Rico to create revolving
Set-Aside (ISA) Grant Program. cation process. percentage point or more.
loan funds (83 percent from fed-
The 1987 Amendments to the
eral funds and 17 percent from
CWA established the program and For copies of these documents, call For more information, or to get a
state funds) to provide independent
authorized EPA to administer these (202) 260-7786. They also will be copy of the program’s guidelines
and permanent sources of low-cost
grants in cooperation with the soon available at the OWM’s Web or the number of your state’s Hard-
financing for a range of water
Indian Health Service (IHS). This page at http://www.epa.gov/owm, ship Grants Program representa-
quality infrastructure projects.
partnership maximized the techni- where there is information about tive, call (202) 260-2268; fax (202)
Repayments made on the loans are
cal resources available through Indian programs, including a listing 260-1827; write to Clean Water
recycled to fund additional water
both agencies to address tribal of Regional Office Indian Set-Aside State Revolving Fund Program,
protection projects.
sanitation needs. To date, the ISA Coordinators. For more informa- Mailcode 4204, U.S. Environmen-
program has contributed more than tion about the ISA program, con- tal Protection Agency, 401 M
While this is a partnership between
$72 million in funding for 150 tact Sylvia Bell at (202) 260-7255. Street SW, Washington, DC
the states and the EPA, it is the
projects. 20460; or visit the OWM’s Web
states who choose which projects
Hardship Grants Program site at http://www.epa.gov/owm
to finance, and project eligibility
Native American communities can for Rural Communities under General Information on the
varies according to each state’s
receive grants for planning, design, If your rural community cannot Financial Assistance Page.
program and priorities. Tradition-
and construction of wastewater afford the full cost of a CWSRF
ally, loans have been used to build
treatment facilities with no match- loan to improve an outdated or National Onsite Demonstration
or improve wastewater treatment
ing funds required and with up to failing wastewater treatment sys- Project (NODP)
plants, but they are now being
100 percent of the project costs tem, you may qualify for a grant The NODP is an EPA-funded
increasingly used for agricultural,
funded. Typical projects include from your state through the Hard- project, begun in 1993, that seeks
rural, and urban runoff control;
interceptor sewers, wastewater ship Grants Program. The 1996 to demonstrate the successful
estuary improvement projects; wet
treatment facilities (conventional Congressional Appropriations Act implementation of alternative
weather control, including storm-
or alternative), infiltration/inflow reserved $50 million from CWSRF onsite wastewater technologies in
water and sewer overflows; and
correction, collection sewers, ma- appropriations to start this new small communities throughout the
alternative treatment technologies.
jor sewer rehabilitation, and onsite program, which awards grants to nation. Coordinated by the Na-
systems. the states, Puerto Rico, and U.S. tional Small Flows Clearinghouse
States have flexibility in choosing
Territories, who in turn will pro- (NSFC), the NODP funds the
from a variety of assistance op-
To be eligible for a grant, tribes vide hardship assistance to small design, installation, and monitor-
tions, including providing loans,
must first identify their needs to communities by supplementing ing of wastewater systems in se-
re-financing, guaranteeing local
the IHS’s Sanitation Deficiency CWSRF loans with hardship grant lected communities.
debt, and purchasing bond insur-
System (SDS), which has five assistance.
ance. States also set loan terms,
deficiency levels, ranging from Six communities were selected in
including interest rates (from zero
communities that need only routine These grants may be awarded to the NODP’s Phase I by congres-
percent to market rate) and repay-
maintenance to those lacking ad- qualifying communities for the
Continued on next page
20 SMALL FLOWS-Spring 1998; Vol.12, No. 2
Continued from previous page an EPA-funded program that seeks shops feature NETCSC’s drinking National Small Flows Clear-
to improve the health of small water, wastewater, and solid waste inghouse (NSFC)
sional representatives because the communities by helping environ- curricula and are offered at various The NSFC was established under
communities had been identified as mental trainers improve drinking locations around the country. The the 1977 CWA, and since 1979 has
having an urgent need for waste- water, wastewater, and solid waste training sessions are geared for been serving as an EPA-funded
water treatment or because they or services in those communities. environmental trainers and techni- national collection and distribution
their representatives had expressed cal assistance providers and meet center for information about inno-
an interest in small wastewater NETCSC develops and delivers National Environmental Training vative, low-cost wastewater treat-
treatment systems. They are Para- training materials to meet national Association standards for certified ment for small communities.
dise, California; Monongalia environmental training needs. trainers.
County, West Virginia; Benzie Projects include the enhancement In addition to Small Flows, the
County, Michigan; Gloucester and of existing training programs, the NETCSC provides a toll-free train- NSFC also offers a variety of other
Waquoit Bay, Massachusetts; and adaptation of training programs ing assistance hotline where callers services including a toll-free tech-
Anne Arundel County, Maryland. from one state’s requirements to can get answers to questions about nical assistance hotline; several
(See related articles on page 22.) another’s, and the development of all aspects of environmental train- computer databases to help answer
new curricula. Wastewater-related ing, including upcoming training callers’ questions about treatment
Additional phases of the NODP curriculum packages in stock and events and materials available facilities, small system manufac-
also are under way. The NSFC will available for purchase include nationwide. Callers can also be put turers, consultant contacts, and
be covering NODP progress in Assessing Wastewater Options for in touch with trainers and training regulations; a quarterly newsletter
future Small Flows issues and will Small Communities, Onsite Waste- organizations throughout the coun- specifically for local officials and
be publishing a summary of Phase water System Operation and Main- try. Other services provided by the public; a research journal; a
I in the near future. You may call tenance, Industrial Pretreatment NETCSC are a free quarterly product inventory of more than
the NSFC assistance line to obtain and Hazardous Material Recogni- newsletter, a resource catalog, a 250 educational items (videos,
further information about the tion, and Troubleshooting and Web site, and customized elec- publications, brochures, etc.); and
NODP at (800) 624-8301 or (304) Optimizing Wastewater Treatment tronic database searches. a Web site with discussion groups,
293-4191. The NODP Web page in Small Communities. general information, and links.
and online general discussion For information, call (800) 624-
forum is located at the NSFC Web Environmental trainers who wish 8301 or (304) 293-4191, fax (304) For more information about the
site at http://www.nsfc.wvu.edu. to improve their skills, establish 293-3161 and request a free infor- NSFC, call (800) 624-8301 or
new environmental programs, or mation packet, or visit the Web (304) 293-4191; fax (304) 293-
National Environmental enhance existing training in their site at http://www.netc.wvu.edu, 3161 and request a free informa-
Training Center for Small region may attend NETCSC-spon- where you will also find an online tion packet, or visit the Web site at
Communities (NETCSC) sored train-the-trainer workshops discussion group. (See related http://www.nsfc.wvu.edu.
Established in 1991, NETCSC is throughout the year. These work- article below.)
Training Assistance Available for Wastewater Professionals
With changing regulations and training materials, training events locating drinking water curricula. If you have a training-related
technologies in the field, it is even and activities, training-related They were in the process of re- question, call a NETCSC training
more important today that waste- organizations, and environmental building their drinking water train- assistant at (800) 624-8301 or
water professionals stay informed trainers. ing program and wanted to learn (304) 293-4191. You may also post
and educated. Reading Small more about various existing pack- questions to the trainers discussion
Flows can certainly help, but some- Callers to NETCSC request informa- ages. We provided them with lists forum located on NETCSC’s Web
times hands-on workshops, training tion on a variety of subjects relating of curricula and descriptions of site at http://www.netc.wvu.edu.
manuals, or even correspondence to wastewater, drinking water, solid available materials.”
courses may be needed to increase waste, and adult education.
one’s knowledge and skills. Hoornbeek says callers have dif-
“We’ve received calls from all ferent needs specific to their region
However, finding the right re- over the country,” says Jeff Bailey, or area and are looking for training
sources may sometimes be diffi- who helps staff the assistance line. packages to address the need. For
cult. To address this concern, the “Operators, designers, consultants, instance, he says callers from
National Environmental Training installers, and many others find Florida have requested information
Center for Small Communities they need help in locating training about curricula that are available
(NETCSC) offers a toll-free train- sessions or trainers in their areas. for training local officials. A num-
ing assistance service to help an- It’s as simple as running a search ber of requests have also been
swer the questions trainers, opera- of our databases, printing out the received for NETCSC to bring
tors, and assistance providers may information, and faxing it to them.” training sessions using one or more
have. NETCSC, a “sister organiza- of its 31 curricula to locations
tion” of the National Small Flows Others request information about across the country.
Clearinghouse (NSFC), offers a the certification requirements in
one-stop-shop for training infor- their states and training curricula Trainers and others call to locate
mation. that cover specific subjects such as training materials to supplement
onsite systems or pretreatment. their own training activities. Some
As the NSFC does with small, callers request information to use
onsite wastewater information, “The best first step is probably in writing hand-outs and home-
NETCSC collects and maintains a calling NETCSC,” says John work assignments. One recent
comprehensive clearinghouse of Hoornbeek, training research asso- caller was preparing for a certifica-
environmental training informa- ciate, who also fields incoming tion examination and needed mate- Senior Information Assistant Jeff Bailey speaks
tion. Four specialized databases calls. “The Pennsylvania Depart- rials to help him study. with a caller on the NETCSC assistance line.
house information that helps staff ment of Environmental Protection
answer questions about available recently requested assistance in
SMALL FLOWS-Spring 1998; Vol.12, No. 2 21
NAL ONS
TIO I
NODP Phase I Monitoring Nears Completion
NA
TE
DEMO
ECT
Phase I of the National Onsite Gloucester, Massachusetts; Some of the benefits of the NODP A final report of NODP Phase I
OJ
ST Demonstration Project (NODP) is Waquoit Bay, Massachusetts; that have been realized thus far will be available through the
N
R
R AT I O N P
nearing completion, with success- Anne Arundel County, Maryland; include substantial cost savings NSFC in fall 1998 and will de-
ful alternative onsite wastewater Benzie County, Michigan; and when compared with centralized scribe each system, the installation
NODP update treatment technologies operating in Monongalia County, West Vir- sewage treatment, reduced threats experiences, and the monitoring
six communities around the country. ginia. Installation has been largely to public health, eliminated pollu- results. Updates will be included in
complete for some time. tion, and states’ acceptance of future issues of Small Flows.
Funded by the U.S. Environmental newer, effective technologies.
Protection Agency and managed However, two sites—Gloucester Arthur Adams, director of the Based on the success of Phase I,
by the National Small Flows and Anne Arundel County—have Environmental Health Division of additional demonstration phases
Clearinghouse (NSFC), the NODP remaining funds available for the Monongalia County Health are now underway (see below).
encourages the adoption of appro- additional systems. Gloucester is Department, said, “Many of these
priate wastewater treatment systems in the process of adding another onsite wastewater technologies For further information about the
to protect public health and the aerobic system, while Anne Arundel have proven to be effective and NODP, contact the NSFC at (800)
environment in small communities. County is retrofitting an existing will provide good service, but 624-8301 or (304) 293-4191 or
recirculating sand filter with new management of the systems will be visit the NSFC’s Web site at http://
The six Phase I demonstration sites media. Monitoring will continue the key to overall success.” www.nsfc.wvu.edu.
include Paradise, California; on all sites until June 30, 1998.
Sites in Six States Selected for NODP Phase II
Sites have been selected for Phase • Rockbridge, Missouri, where training and the creation of onsite and member of the EPA Office of
II of the National Onsite Demon- polluted limestone cave river management districts. Pollution Prevention and Compliance
stration Project (NODP), which systems pose a threat to public Assistance, Advanced Science and
was developed to help spur the use health and wildlife; Much of the installation for these Technical Research Team; Robert
of alternative wastewater treatment • Centerville, Pennsylvania, an projects is expected to be com- Mayer, chairman of the Technical
technologies to protect public area with contaminated water- pleted by the end of the summer; Practices Committee of the National
health and the environment in sheds; after which, monitoring will begin Onsite Wastewater Recycling
small and rural communities. • Green Hill Pond, Rhode Island, and continue for the duration of the Association; Richard Piluk, public
which suffers from coastal contract, and possibly beyond. The health engineer for the Anne
According to Project Coordinator pollution; project is being managed by staff Arundel County Health Department;
Clement Solomon, Phase II is the • Monongalia County, West from the National Small Flows Valerie Nelson from the Coalition
result of several states’ requests for Virginia, and Franklin, Addison, Clearinghouse (NSFC), and an for Alternative Wastewater Treat-
demonstration projects, following and Windham Counties, Vermont, expert panel will be available to ment; and Thomas Yeager, con-
the implementation of the project’s where management models for assist the communities with ques- sultant and participant in the Elec-
Phase I. Phase II sites were se- small community treatment tions about the technologies, in- tric Power Research Institute’s
lected based on community interest technologies will help ensure stallations, and monitoring. Community Environmental Center.
and other criteria, such as ecologi- proper system maintenance; and
cally/geologically sensitive areas • Rockbridge,Washington, which Expert panel members include: For more information about the
and areas where no wastewater has polluted salmon breeding Steve Hogye, U.S. Environmental NODP, call the NSFC at (800)
treatment facilities exist. grounds. Protection Agency project coordi- 624-8301 or (304) 293-4191 or
nator; David Gustafson, University visit the NSFC’s Web site at http://
The sites selected for demonstra- In addition, NODP Phase II of Minnesota extension educator www.nsfc.wvu.edu. Updates on
tion projects, along with some projects will involve septic system and instructor of the Onsite Sew- the project also will be included in
of the major problems to be ad- operation and maintenance age Treatment Workshop; Bernard future Small Flows issues.
dressed, include: Hoffnar, Pennsylvania regulator
NSFC To Examine NODP Management Issues in Phase IV
West Virginia University is cur- NODP Director John Mori, Ph.D. lation uses onsite systems, and implement it came with NODP
rently negotiating the scope of “Management districts are a major homeowners are not always aware Phase IV. A three-year project,
work for the fourth phase of the component of the proper protection when their systems are not func- Phase IV is expected to begin in
National Onsite Demonstration of public health.” tioning properly until a problem fall 1998.
Project (NODP). The emphasis of becomes severe.
Phase IV will be to promote and Administered by the U.S. Environ- “The NSFC is very excited about
develop management strategies for mental Protection Agency (EPA) “Onsite systems often fail because undertaking Phase IV of the
onsite wastewater treatment in our with a budget of $1.25 million, they don’t have the regulated man- NODP,” Mori said. “We think this
nation’s small communities. NODP Phase IV will assist local agement that centralized sewer initiative is long overdue and be-
officials in implementing manage- systems have,” Mori continued. lieve that this will provide an an-
Managed by the National Small ment districts around the country “Therefore, it is important to set up swer to many local problems.”
Flows Clearinghouse (NSFC), the by identifying successful manage- management districts that can
first three phases of NODP have ment models and providing infor- oversee the onsite systems in a For more information about the
focused mainly on technologies mation to local officials to educate particular community and ensure NODP, call the NSFC at (800)
and community decision making. them about these models. “The proper operation and maintenance.” 624-8301 or (304) 293-4191. Up-
(See related articles on this page.) goal is to strategically disseminate dates on the project will be in-
“However, to provide a broad- information on many different The concept of management dis- cluded on the NSFC’s Web site at
based, comprehensive demonstra- management models that suit vari- tricts is not new. Preliminary work http://www.nsfc.wvu.edu and in
tion project, it is necessary to focus ous situations,” Mori explained. on the idea has been under way for future Small Flows issues.
on management systems,” said “Twenty-five percent of the popu- two years, and the opportunity to
22 SMALL FLOWS-Spring 1998; Vol.12, No. 2
S M
Calendar of Events T W
4 T F
5 S
1998 11
18
12
6
13
7
14
8
1
2
9 1
3
19 15 0
If your organization is sponsoring an event that you would like to have promoted 25 20 16
in this calendar, please send information to the Small Flows editor at the address printed in 26 21 17
27 22
the staff box on page 15. 28 23
29 24
30
Event: WasteExpo 98 Event: Onsite Wastewater
MAY By: Environmental Industry
Associations By:
Systems Workshop
National Environmental Event: ASCE Structural Engineers
events
Date: June 8–11 Health Association World Congress
Event: 6th Annual Onsite Waste Place: Chicago, IL Date: June 28–July 1 By: American Society of Civil
water Treatment and Re- Phone: (202) 424-4700 Place: Las Vegas, NV Engineers
search Council Conference (800) 424-2869 Phone: (303) 756-9090 Date: July 18–23
By: Texas Natural Resource Jacqueline Wolfe Place: San Francisco, CA
Conservation Commission www.envasns.org/eii/ Event: Advances In Urban Wet Phone: (703) 295-6060
Date: May 20–22 wasteexpo.htm Weather Pollution Vicky Troy
Place: Corpus Christi, TX Reduction
Phone: (512) 239-4799
Diane Stallings
Event: ASTM Committee Meeting
By: American Society for
Testing and Materials
By: Water Environment
Federation
Date: June 28–July1
AUGUST
Event: Municipal Stormwater Date: June 14–17 Place: Clevland, OH Event: ASCE International Wa-
Management Place: New Orleans, LA Phone: (703) 684-2400 ter Resources Engineering
By: American Society of Phone: (610) 832-9732 Nancy Blatt, Barry Conference
Civil Engineers Bob Morgan Eisenberg By: American Society of Civil
Date: May 20–22 Engineers
Place: Amelia Island, FL
Phone: (703) 295-6007
Fax: (703) 295-6144
Event: AWMA 91st Annual
By:
Meeting and Exposition
Air and Waste Manage-
JULY Date: August 3–7
Place: Memphis, TN
Phone: (800) 548-2723
ment Association Event: 53rd Annual Conference
Event: Slope Stability and Date: June 16–18 of the Soil and Water Event: Cross Currents in Water
Stabilization Place: San Diego, CA Conservation Society Policy
By: American Society of Phone: (914) 421-3278 Date: July 5–7 By: University Council of
Civil Engineers Robert Greenbaum Place: San Diego, CA Water Resources
Date: May 27–29 greenbaum.glm@mci By: Soil and Water Conservation Date: August 4–7
Place: Seattle, WA mail.com Soceity Place: Hood River, OR
Phone: (703) 295-6007 Fax: (914) 948-6180 Phone: (515) 289-2331 Phone: (540) 231-8039
Fax: (703) 295-6144 swcs@swcs.org Dr. Tamim Younos
Event: AWWA Annual www.swcs.org
Event: AWRA 1998 Symposium Conference and Exposition Event: Pennsylvania Municipal
Rangeland Management By: American Water Works Event: NWQM Council: Moni- Authorities Association
and Water Resources Association toring—Critical Founda- 56th Annual Conference
By: American Water Re- Date: June 21–25 tions to Protect Our Waters By: Pennsylvania Municipal
sources Association Place: Dallas, TX By: National Water Quality Authorities Association
Date: May 27–30 Phone: (800) 926-7337 Monitoring Council Date: August 30–September 2
Place: Reno, NV (303) 347-6162 Date: July 7–9 Place: Hershey, PA
Phone: (703) 904-1225 Fax: (303) 794-3951 Place: Reno, NV Phone: (717) 737-7655
awrahq@aol.com Phone: (405) 810-4400
Event: Water Quality Interna- Joanne Kurklin These are just a sampling of events
JUNE By:
tional 1988
International Association Event: Treatment Innovation for
taking place this quarter. For a
more comprehensive listing of
on Water Quality the Next Century: events pertaining to wastewater-
Event: ASCE-Engineering Water Date: June 21–26 Innovation 2000 related topics, contact NSFC
Resources Place: Vancouver, British Co- By: European Water Pollution Program Assistant Kelly Stewart at
By: American Society of Civil lumbia, Canada Control Association (800) 624-8301 or (304) 293-4191
Engineers Phone: (604) 681-5226 Date: July 7–10 Ext. 5559.
Date: June 6–10 congress@venuewest.com Place: Churchill College, UK
Place: Chicago, IL Phone: (703) 684-2400
Phone: (206) 543-8974 Event: Western Building Show
Robert Seabloom Conference Event: ASAE International
By: (multiple building sponsors) Meeting: World of
Event: 15th Annual EPA 104(g) Date: June 24–27 Engineering Expo &
National Wastewater Place: San Francisco, CA Sponsorship Opportunities
Operator’s Conference Phone: (916) 443-7933 By: American Society of
By: Arizona State Environ- Agricultural Engineers
mental Technology Training Event: NEHA’s 1998 AEC & Date: July 11–16
Center Exhibition Place: Orlando, FL
Date: June 7–10 By: National Environmental Phone: (616) 429-0300
Place: Tucson, AZ Health Association
Phone: (520) 206-7888 Date: June 27–July1
Caroline Lee Place: Las Vegas, NV
Phone: (303) 756-9090
SMALL FLOWS-Spring 1998; Vol.12, No. 2 23
Small Flows
Volume 12, Number 2, Spring 1998
Also in this issue
1 Inflow/Infiltration
1 Commercial Grease Traps
for Onsite Systems
6 Confined Space Safety
Florida Explores Performance- 11 Q&A Aerobic Treatment Units
Based Treatment Systems 13 Special: Readership Survey
see page 8
18 Land-Use Planning for
Onsite Systems
L SMALL
NA National Small Flows Clearinghouse
FL
O
NONPROFIT
OW
NAT I
West Virginia University
ORGANIZATION
S
P.O. Box 6064
U.S. POSTAGE
E
CL
EA Morgantown, WV 26506-6064
S
R IN GHOU PAID
ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED PERMIT NO. 34
MORGANTOWN, WV
24 SMALL FLOWS-Spring 1998; Vol.12, No. 2
