Engineers for Communities

This show will allow smaller disadvantaged communities in Colorado and other states connect on topics such as water, wastewater, city project planning, government funding, and everything in between.

Advanced Water Treatment: Chlorination, Flushing & Real-Time Data | WEFTEC SERIES 2 | EP 9 03/03/2025

Simplifying Screening Design & Process | WEFTEC SERIES 2 | EP 8 02/10/2025

Simplifying Screening Design & Process | WEFTEC SERIES 2 | EP 8 In this episode of Engineers for Communities, host Michael Groselle, PE engages with Terry Duperon of Duperon Corporation to discuss innovative wastewater treatment solutions, the role of creativity in engineering, and fostering a culture of innovation in the water sector. Terry shares his journey from traditional engineering to becoming a disruptor in the industry, offering insights on designing adaptable and sustainable wastewater systems. ★ Learn about Duperon Corporation’s innovative approach to wastewater treatment equipment, emphasizing simplicity, adaptability, and operator efficiency. ★ Explore the importance of flexible designs like screens and scrapers that can accommodate varying debris volumes, ensuring resilience during high flows or unexpected challenges. ★ Discover how Duperon Skunkworks R&D team drives innovation through rapid prototyping and real-world testing, allowing for continuous product improvement and customer-driven solutions. ★ Understand the value of designing systems with fewer parts, minimizing maintenance and improving reliability in harsh wastewater environments. ★ Hear how Duperon integrates operator feedback to create user-friendly equipment that enhances performance and reduces long-term operational costs. ★ Gain insights into the evolving acceptance of new technologies in wastewater treatment, as societal expectations and environmental challenges drive innovation. ★ See why fostering a culture of creativity and risk-taking within an organization leads to groundbreaking advancements and a competitive edge in today’s fast-paced market. ★ Learn about Duperon latest products, from advanced drum screens with direct drive systems to compactors designed to maximize efficiency and minimize waste. ★ Understand how Duperon’s commitment to trial and error has resulted in robust systems capable of handling extreme conditions, from stormwater debris to high gravel loads. ★ Discover why the creative process is essential not just for product design but for building an organizational culture that encourages innovation, collaboration, and long-term success. Join us as we explore how Duperon Corporation is leading the charge in reimagining wastewater treatment with simple yet revolutionary solutions that meet the challenges of today’s water infrastructure needs. /episode/index/show/gro-show/id/35223345

Tracking and Solving Inflow and Infiltration (I&I) Challenges | WEFTEC SERIES 2 | EP7 01/24/2025

Tracking and Solving Inflow and Infiltration (I&I) Challenges | WEFTEC SERIES 2 | EP7 In this episode of Engineers for Communities, host Michael Groselle welcomes Mark Serres from Utility Systems Science and Software (US3) to discuss innovative approaches to identifying, tracking, and resolving inflow and infiltration (I&I) issues in wastewater collection systems. From practical solutions to leveraging advanced data technologies, this conversation offers valuable insights for communities looking to enhance system efficiency and reduce costs. ↳ Understand the basics of I&I: what it is, how groundwater infiltration and stormwater inflow occur, and their impact on collection systems and treatment plants. ↳ Discover practical detection techniques like smoke testing, flow monitoring, and visual surveys to pinpoint problem areas and assess their severity. ↳ Learn about leveraging dry and wet weather flow data to quantify I&I and how US3 integrates Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) data for faster, more precise diagnostics. ↳ Explore how flow monitoring combined with temperature, rain gauge, and AMI data helps identify common offenders such as school systems, golf courses, and improperly connected storm drains. ↳ Hear case studies of rapid, cost-effective solutions where targeted fixes eliminated major I&I contributors, avoiding costly treatment plant upgrades. ↳ Gain insights into advanced calibration techniques, 3D camera inspections, and LiDAR technology for accurate data collection and manhole assessments. ↳ Understand the importance of "boots on the ground" contextual knowledge in collaboration with city technicians for efficient problem-solving. This episode is a must-watch for anyone seeking actionable strategies to improve wastewater system management while minimizing unnecessary expenses. Learn how fresh perspectives, innovative technology, and collaboration can lead to quick, impactful results for your community or development project. /episode/index/show/gro-show/id/34993900

Energy Solutions for Water and Wastewater Treatment Facilities |WEFTEC SERIES 2 | EP6 01/10/2025

Energy Solutions for Water and Wastewater Treatment Facilities |WEFTEC SERIES 2 | EP6 In this episode of Engineers for Communities, host Michael Groselle discusses the vital role of backup generators in water and wastewater infrastructure with Ross Kirschbaum from Rehlko. Learn how reliable power solutions can safeguard essential services and explore the latest innovations in generator technology. ★ Discover why backup power is critical for water systems, especially during storms or emergencies, and how transitioning to stationary generators reduces downtime and operational risk. ★ Explore the pros and cons of diesel, natural gas, and LP vapor generators, and how to select the right fuel option based on maintenance requirements and load schedules. ★ Learn about common challenges with maintaining diesel fuel, such as algae growth and water ingress, and how regular upkeep ensures generator reliability. ★ Understand how service contracts and 24/7 support can provide peace of mind for facilities during power outages. ★ Hear real-world examples of how customer feedback drives innovation in Rehlko’s generator designs, including on-site testing and rapid customization. ★ See how Rehlko integrates cutting-edge technologies like hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) compatibility and hydrogen fuel cells to reduce emissions and environmental impact. ★ Learn about renewable energy applications, such as integrating natural gas digesters and microgrid controllers, to enhance efficiency and sustainability. ★ Explore the importance of scalability, with generator solutions ranging from small 25 kW units to large 4 MW systems, to meet the diverse needs of facilities. ★ Discover how Rehlko hybrid solutions, including prime power generators, can offset costs by feeding excess energy back into the grid. ★ Dive into the future of distributed energy systems, and how innovative technologies are reshaping the power landscape for rural communities and critical infrastructure. /episode/index/show/gro-show/id/34802540

Future Proofing Wastewater Systems for Rural Communities |WEFTEC SERIES 2 | EP5 01/03/2025

Tracking Water Quality in Real-Time: A Game-Changer for WWTP Operators |WEFTEC SERIES 2 | EP4 12/18/2024

Wastewater Solutions for Developers and Operators |WEFTEC SERIES 2 | EP3 11/25/2024

PFAS Removal using Aqueous Electrostatic Concentrators |WEFTEC SERIES 2 |EP2 11/11/2024

Addressing Small System Challenges with Water and Wastewater Experts | WEFTEC SERIES 2 EP1 10/25/2024

Water System Repairs: From Tanks to Underground Pipes | CRWA EP11 10/04/2024

Wastewater Residuals: Managing Evolving Regulations | CRWA EP10 09/20/2024

Ambiente H2O’s Specifiable Solutions for Water and Wastewater Industries | CRWA EP9 09/06/2024

Grouting & Imaging Solutions in Sewer Lines and Manholes with CUES | CRWA EP8 08/26/2024

Importance of Regular Maintenance and Inspection of Water Storage Tanks | CRWA EP7 08/09/2024

Funding Insights & Rural Water System Challenges with CRWA Grant Manager | CRWA EP6 07/26/2024

PFAS Polluters to Pay $14.75B Direct to Public Water Systems in First Round 07/25/2024

PFAS Polluters to Pay $14.75B Direct to Public Water Systems in First Round In this episode of "Engineers for Communities," join me as I host , the former CEO of the and current Water Consultant to Law. NRWA has partnered with Napoli Law to create the PFAS Cost Recovery Program to help water and wastewater systems recoup money spent on treatment and remediation. Over $14 billion in settlements have been won so far with more to come. This episode provides the latest updates on the litigation efforts & clarifies how participation in the settlement is like a “insurance policy without a premium” for public water utilities who have detected or will detect any PFAS in their water supply. ★ Understanding PFAS: Wade explains what PFAS are, their widespread use, and the environmental and health impacts of these "forever chemicals." Learn about the 's new regulations on PFAS and the financial burden they place on water utilities. ★ PFAS Cost Recovery Program Background: Discover why the National Rural Water Association engaged in litigation against PFAS manufacturers and the goal of alleviating financial impacts on ratepayers. ★ Ensuring Access to Funds: Understand the importance of registering for litigation even if a utility currently has no PFAS detections, as a safeguard for future testing. Sam provides insights on how water utilities can apply for funds from the settlements and the necessary documentation required. ★ 3M ($12.5 B) and Dupont ($1.185 B) Settlements: Phase 1 Utilities who have tested PFAS prior to June 22, 2023, have a deadline of July 24, 2024, to complete the form to participate in the settlements. Utilities who tested after June 22, 2023 (UCMR 5) will still be included in the settlement as Phase 2 Utilities ★ 12 More Settlements in progress: Wade estimates that over $20 billion will be distributed to public water utilities by the time all the settlements are completed ★ How Much for Each Utility: Wade discusses how the funds will be distributed to each utility, noting the proportionality to contaminant loading over time and availability of a Fund Estimate Calculator for the and Settlements ★ Case Study: Hear about real-life examples, such as the town council of a small community in the Northeast, and their journey from skepticism to active participation in the litigation. ★ Wastewater & Biosolids Next: Discussing the future implications for wastewater systems and the ongoing efforts to address PFAS contamination in biosolids. /episode/index/show/gro-show/id/32290817

High Impact Lagoon Optimization with Microalgae and Electrocoagulation | EP5 | New Series 07/12/2024

Chemical-Free Ultrasonic Algae Control for Wastewater Lagoons and More | EP4 | New Series 06/28/2024

Innovative Lagoon Pilot: BioAugmentation, Microalgae and Electrocoagulation | EP3 | New Series 06/07/2024

Maximizing Collection System Performance: Targeting I&I with Sensor Data | EP2 | New Series 05/23/2024

Lead and Copper Rule Compliance: Strategies for Small Water Systems | EP1 | New Series 05/09/2024

Simple Wastewater Solutions for Small Municipalities | WEFTEC SERIES | EP 12 05/01/2024

Teledyne’s Contactless Laser Flow Monitoring, Sampling and Data Solutions | WEFTEC SERIES | EP 11 04/17/2024

Teledyne’s Contactless Laser Flow Monitoring, Sampling and Data Solutions | WEFTEC SERIES | EP 11 ★ Revolutionary Non-Contact Laser Flow: Trivedi highlights the unique ability of Teledyne's devices to measure water velocity below the surface, avoiding clogs and maintenance demands, and ensuring accurate data even during overflows. ★ Remote Data Access and Alerts: Discover how Teledyne's technology transmits flow sensor data to a logger device that allows for remote monitoring and instant alerts, enabling swift responses to potential issues. ★ Cost-Saving, Risk-Reducing Solutions: Learn about the financial and safety benefits of non-contact sensors in the field, reducing the need for costly, hazardous manhole entries and maintenance. ★ Innovative Sampling Devices: Explore Teledyne's range of samplers, from portable to refrigerated units, crucial for analyzing water quality in treatment plants and meeting regulatory requirements for temperature-sensitive testing. ★ Emerging Contaminant Detection: Trivedi explains how Teledyne's samplers are pivotal in detecting PFAS—persistent environmental pollutants—and other emerging contaminants, aiding in the responsible management of wastewater treatment plants. ★ Tracking Public Health Threats: Discover Teledyne's role in wastewater disease surveillance, crucial for early detection of viruses like COVID-19, Influenza, and other Pathogens, potentially preventing outbreaks. ★ PFAS Fluorine Molecule: Gain a deeper understanding of how PFAS, a non-degradable fluorine molecule linked to health risks, is monitored by Teledyne's technology to prevent its entry into the ecosystem and food chain. ★ Sampling for Safety: Learn about the innovative portable refrigerated sampler designed for PFAS sampling, ensuring samples are immediately cooled to comply with stringent testing methods and maintain sample integrity. ★ Cloud-Based Data Management: Teledyne's cloud software offers a powerful, secure alternative to traditional SCADA systems, reducing IT demands while enhancing data security against hacking threats. ★ User-Friendly Dashboards and Alarms: Trivedi and Dennis will guide us through the intuitive dashboards that allow operators to monitor key performance indicators, set alarms, and efficiently manage water systems. ★ Rental and Cellular Services: Teledyne's flexible rental options for hardware and software and in-house cellular services simplify setup and provide cost-effective solutions for temporary studies or projects. /episode/index/show/gro-show/id/30867488

Bead Filters: Low-Maintenance with Dual Biological & Mechanical Filtration | WEFTEC SERIES | EP10 04/05/2024

Bead Filters: Low-Maintenance with Dual Biological & Mechanical Filtration | WEFTEC SERIES | EP10 ★ Learn about the unique bead filter technology, a dual-function system that combines biological and mechanical filtration to tackle various contaminants with unmatched efficiency. ★ Addressing Complex Water Challenges: Malone dives into how excels in removing TSS, VOD, ammonia, and even specialized contaminants like BTEX, showcasing the system's versatility in water treatment. ★ Mastering Denitrification: Uncover the secrets behind achieving effective denitrification, a challenging process for many treatment plants, through AST's innovative approach that ensures compliance with stringent regulations. ★ Cost-Effective Solutions for Lagoon Polishing: Hear real-world success stories of municipalities utilizing AST's bead filters for lagoon polishing, offering a financially viable alternative to expensive mechanical plant upgrades. ★ Competitive Edge: Explore how AST stand out in the market by replacing conventional biological and mechanical systems with a single, efficient unit, simplifying operations and reducing costs. ★ Simplified Operation and Longevity: Delve into the low maintenance needs and operational simplicity of AST's filtration technology, emphasizing the long-term durability and ease of use that appeal to operators. ★ Navigating Regulatory Approvals: Malone shares the journey of securing regulatory approval across different states, highlighting the importance of pilot studies and the adaptability of AST's technology to meet diverse regulatory standards. ★ Environmental Impact and Sustainability: From reducing methane emissions in dairy farm lagoon systems to enhancing nutrient removal, discovering how AST contributes to sustainable environmental practices and energy savings. ★ Future Directions and Innovations: Peek into the future as Malone discusses ongoing research and development efforts at AST Filters, aimed at advancing water treatment technologies to meet the evolving needs of communities and industries globally. /episode/index/show/gro-show/id/30698458

Deep Dive: Iron and Manganese Filtration Solutions in Water Treatment | WEFTEC SERIES | EP9 03/22/2024

Advanced Screening Techniques for Wastewater Challenges | WEFTEC SERIES | EP8 03/08/2024

Strategic Management of Water/Wastewater Systems with Hayden’s Town Manager | Weftec Series 02/26/2024

Strategic Management of Water/Wastewater Systems with Hayden’s Town Manager | Weftec Series In this episode, we explore the multifaceted challenges and innovative solutions in managing water and wastewater infrastructure with Mathew Mendisco, a town manager from a Town of Hayden with extensive experience: ★ Navigating Funding and Infrastructure Aging: Mendisco sheds light on the primary challenges small communities face regarding funding and aging infrastructure. He emphasizes the need for strategic planning and innovative financing to sustainably manage and upgrade essential water and sewer systems. ★ The Importance of Capital Improvement Planning (CIP): Discover how a well-implemented CIP is crucial for the long-term health and efficiency of water and wastewater infrastructure, helping municipalities prioritize investments and manage resources effectively. ★ Roles and Responsibilities in Operational Excellence: Learn about the critical roles that operators, engineers, and city managers play in the daily operation and strategic oversight of water and wastewater systems, ensuring their reliability and effectiveness. ★ Creative Financing for Infrastructure Development: Mendisco introduces groundbreaking strategies for financing infrastructure projects, including the separation of capital investment from operational budgets through the use of Capital Improvement Funds, to enhance financial flexibility and grant accessibility. ★ Proactive Asset Management and Maintenance: Gain insights into the proactive measures and maintenance strategies that are essential for extending the life span of infrastructure assets, including regular system assessments and the adoption of best practices in asset management. ★ Leveraging Grants and Strategic Partnerships: Hear how the Town of Hayden has successfully secured over $10 million in grant funding for infrastructure improvements by leveraging strategic partnerships, innovative project management, and a comprehensive understanding of grant requirements. ★ Innovative Approaches to Infrastructure Financing and Management: Mendisco discusses the innovative approaches small towns like Hayden are taking towards infrastructure financing and management, including tackling the challenges posed by regulatory frameworks and exploring new avenues for funding and project implementation. Join us as Matthew Mendisco provides invaluable insights and practical advice for engineers, city officials, and developers involved in the planning, funding, and management of water and wastewater projects in small communities. This episode offers a comprehensive look at the strategies and solutions that can help ensure the sustainability and resilience of community infrastructure. /episode/index/show/gro-show/id/30118703

Pre-Engineered Wastewater Solutions with Membrane Bioreactor (MBR) | WEFTEC SERIES | EP7 02/14/2024

Learn About Robust Pump Applications: Fluid Handling in Diverse Industries | WEFTEC SERIES | EP6 01/24/2024

Wastewater Engineering: Sludge Reduction, Grit Removal & Cost-Saving Dryers | WEFTEC SERIES | EP5 01/10/2024

Engineers for Communities

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