VOLUME 55 NUMBER 1 / ISSN 1077-3002 Spring 2021

VOLUME 55 NUMBER 1 / ISSN 1077-3002 spring 2021

Biosolids/Residuals Management Fate of long- and short-chain PFAS, pharmaceuticals, and personal care products in wastewater biosolids Impacts of PFAS on biosolids management costs Thermal drying for cost and risk control Adaptive biosolids master planning to manage PFAS in biosolids ® [email protected], , email us at for more product information. 630.837.5640 Septage Acceptance Plants ® Septage Acceptance Plant Septage Complete Plant www.lakeside-equipment.com Cleaner Water for a Brighter Future Brighter a for Water Cleaner Speak to one of our experts at or visit NOT YOUR ORDINARY RECEIVING SYSTEM Raptor municipal and industrial Removes debris and inorganic solids from septage, FOG, and sludge. This heavy-duty machine incorporates dewatering and compaction. for screening, the Raptor Fine Screen Accessories include security access and automated accounting systems. Raptor With Acceptance Plant the Septage the addition of aerated grit removal, as the Raptor Septage Complete Plant. is offered Raptor Septage Raptor F: 781.878.1219 F: SIMPLE. EFFICIENT. INTELLIGENT. | Generate Revenue with www.themahercorp.com T: 800.456.2437 T: 192 Pleasant St. Rockland, MA 02370 Rockland, 192 Pleasant St.

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upfront President’s Message...... 6 From the Editor...... 8

Industry news 12 Ongoing water quality needs in the Charles River on 25th anniversary of initiative...... 12 Landmark cleanup plan for Housatonic River...... 13 EPA finalizes municipal stormwater general permit modifications for New Hampshire and Massachusetts...... 14

Biosolids/Residuals Management Fate of long- and short-chain PFAS, pharmaceuticals, and personal care products in wastewater biosolids...... 18 by Sydney Adams, Cassidy Yates, Carmela Antonellis, Jenna Luek, James P. Malley, Jr., and Paula Mouser Impacts of PFAS on biosolids management costs...... 32 by Eric Spargimino Thermal drying for cost and risk control...... 38 by John Ross and Natalie Sierra Adaptive biosolids master planning to manage PFAS in biosolids...... 44 by Todd O. Williams

THIS ISSUE Committee Focus...... 50 18 NEBRA Highlights...... 52 State Director Reports...... 58

Events Student Poster Board Competition...... 56 Annual Conference Proceedings...... 68

INSIDE NEWEA Membership Application...... 75

On the cover: 3-D rendering of PFAS molecule 56 Page 61: Measurement unit conversions and abbreviations NEWEA JOURNAL / SPRING 2021 | 1 President Virgil J. Lloyd Manchester, CT President Elect Frederick J. McNeill Manchester, NH Vice President     Robert K. Fischer South Burlington, VT Treasurer Civil Construction Drinking Emergency Clayton “Mac” Richardson Lewiston, ME Engineering Management Water Management Past President Jennifer Kelly Lachmayr Services Wakefield, MA WEF Delegates James R. Barsanti Framingham, MA Peter B. Garvey Boston, MA Susan Guswa Enfield, CT     Raymond A. Vermette, Jr. Dover, NH Directors – State Environmental Infrastructure Owner’s Project Planning William C. Norton Fairfield, CT Asset Management Jeffrey C. McBurnie Saco, ME Management The concepts, ideas, procedures and opinions contained in the articles in this publication are those expressed by F. Adam Yanulis the various authors who submit the material for publication. The New England Water Environment Association, its Westwood, MA executive committee, the editors, the executive director, and administrative staff hereby assume no responsibility for any errors or omissions in the articles as presented in this publication, nor are the concepts, ideas, procedures W. Steven Clifton and opinions in these articles necessarily recommended or endorsed as valid by NEWEA, its executive committee, Portsmouth, NH the editors, the executive director or staff. References to specific products or services do not constitute Edward J. Davies endorsement of those offerings by NEWEA. The Journal’s committee reserves the right to make any editorial North Kingstownt, RI changes deemed necessary for publication of submitted papers. Michael A. Smith Waterbury, VT    STAY CONNECTED NEWEA Journal ISSN #1077-3002 Journal Committee Chair & Editor Technical Editor Directors – Council Philip E. Forzley Published four times annually by Alexandra B. Greenfield (Bowen) Charles Tyler  [email protected] New England Water Environment [email protected] [email protected] Manchester, CT Stormwater Traffic & Wastewater Amy Anderson George Association, Inc. Journal Committee Copy Editor Wakefield, MA  This is Volume 55 Number 1 Jennifer Lawrence (Vice Chair), Thomas Heinlein Transportation Periodical postage paid at Woburn, MA Alan Slater, Joseph Boccadoro Jennifer Kelly Lachmayr 01801, and at additional mailing offices Design/Production Manager Wakefield, MA Charles Tyler, William Murphy Robert Randazzo New England Water Environment Meredith Sullivan, Marie Rivers Dr. Marianne Langridge Association, Inc. Dan Coughlin, Don St. Marie Photo Credits Denver, CO Charles River Basin, Boston 10 Tower Office Park, Suite 601 Eric Staunton, Robert Mack Deborah S. Mahoney from the Esplanade (page 12) Woburn, MA 01801-2155 Helen Gordon, James Barsanti Andover, MA Mac Richardson, Matthew Hross Daderot, Wikimedia Commons Telephone: 781-939-0908 Colin P. O’Brien Meredith Zona, Michael Sullivan Fax: 781-939-0907 Housatonic River (page 13) Andover, MA Email: [email protected] Janine Burke-Wells Housatonic Valley Association Vonnie M. Reis Website: newea.org Guest Editors New Bedford, MA, (page 15) Framingham, MA Postmaster: Matthew Hross Leonardo Dasilva, Wikimedia COLLABORATIVE SOLUTIONS. DRAMATIC RESULTS. Send address changes to: MHross@hazenand sawyer.com Commons Executive Director NEWEA Journal Marie Rivers Mary Barry 10 Tower Office Park, Suite 601 [email protected] Woburn, MA 01801-2155 envpartners.com

2 | NEWEA JOURNAL / SPRING 2021 NEWEA JOURNAL / SPRING 2021 | 3

membership

WE BLEED BLUE... RED, WHITE & BLUE

When you buy an Aquastore®, you Our Association was organized Ninety-TWO years ago in Hartford, Become a NEWEA Member purchase a product that is Made in Connecticut, on April 23, 1929, with the objectives of advancing the knowledge of n Complete and mail the membership design, construction, operation and management of waste treatment works and other application form on pages 75–76 water pollution control activities, and encouraging a friendly exchange of information America from a company that has n Download a membership application and experience. From 40 charter members, the membership has steadily grown to more from newea.org by selecting— than 2,000 today. Membership is divided into the following classes: Join Us / Become a NEWEA Member over 122 years’ experience. Professional Member—shall be any individual involved or interested in water quality n Join online at wef.org by selecting— including any manager or other officer of a private waste treatment works; any person Become a Member engaged in the design, construction, financing, operation or supervision of pollution CST uses American-made iron and steel control facilities, or in the sale or manufacture of waste treatment equipment. 2021 Rates ($) in our tanks and manufactured goods, Executive Member—shall be an upper level manager interested in water quality and who Professional ...... 185 American-made aluminum dome materials, Executive ...... 355 is interested in receiving an expanded suite of WEF products and services. and American-made glass frit to produce Corporate Member—shall be a sewerage board, department or commission; sanitary Corporate ...... 420 district; or other body, corporation or organization engaged in the design, consultation, Regulatory ...... 50 our glass-fused-to-steel tanks. operation or management of water quality systems. Academic ...... 185 Regulatory Member—this membership category is a NEWEA only membership reserved Young Professional . . . . 70 CST AQUASTORE tanks are made in for New England Environmental Regulatory Agencies, including: USEPA Region 1, PWO ...... 110 Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, Maine Department of Dual ...... 45 DeKalb, Illinois and always will be. Environmental Protection, Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection, New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services, Vermont Department of Environmental Student ...... 15 Conservation, and Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management. When looking to fulfill storage tank needs, Academic Member—shall be an instructor or professor interested in subjects related contact Statewide Aquastore, Inc. at to water quality. Young Professional Member—shall be any individual with five or fewer years of (315) 433-2782 or visit www.besttank.com experience in the water quality industry and who is less than 35 years of age. Professional Wastewater Operations Member (PWO)—shall be any individual who is actively involved on a day-to-day basis with the operation of a wastewater collection, Issue date for circulation data below: 09/10/2018 treatment or laboratory facility, or for facilities with a daily flow of <1 million gallons per day. Publication title: Extent and nature of Average No. copies Membership is limited to those actually employed in treatment and collection facilities. circulation: no. copies of single The Technical/ each issue issue Student Member—shall be a student enrolled for a minimum of six credit hours in an NEWEA Educational/ during published Journal Environmental preceding nearest to accredited college or university. 12 months filing date WEF Utility Partnership Program (UPP)—NEWEA participates in the WEF Utility Partner- Total number of copies 2,500 2,500 ship Program (UPP) that supports utilities to join WEF and NEWEA while creating a Legitimate Outside country 0 0 paid and/or paid/requested comprehensive membership package for designated employees. As a UPP a utility can requested mail subscriptions distribution consolidate all members within its organization onto one account and have the flexibility In-country paid/ 2,200 2,200 requested mail to tailor the appropriate value packages based on the designated employees’ needs. subscriptions Contact WEF for questions & enrollment (703-684-2400 x7213). Sales through 8 8 dealers & carriers Requested copies 0 0 New England Water Environment Association | Statement of Ownership, Management and Circulation distributed by Publication Title...... The NEWEA Journal other mail classes Publication...... #24559 Total paid and/or requested 2,208 2,208 circulation Issue Frequency...... Quarterly (four per year) Total nonrequested distribution 0 0 Annual Subscription Price...... $20 (included with membership dues) Total distribution 2,208 2,008 Statewide Aquastore, Inc. | 6010 Drott Drive | East Syracuse, NY 13057 | Ph: 315.433.2782 | www.besttank.com Complete Mailing Address, Known Office of Publication, © 2016. Statewide Aquastore, Inc. Aquastore is a registered trademark of CST Industries, Inc. General Business Office, Editors and Owner Copies not distributed 292 492 (non profit organization)...... NEWEA, 10 Tower Office Park, Suite 601, Woburn, MA 01801 Total 2,500 2,500 Contact Person/Managing Editor...... Mary Barry, NEWEA Executive Director Percent paid and/or requested 100 100 Tax Status ...... No change during the preceding 12 months circulation

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upfront

Screenshot from the 2021 Annual Conference's Women in Water Forum: (l to r) Fredie Kay, Phyllis Arnold Rand, President’s Message Liz Levin, (bottom row) Elisa Speranza, Megan Yoo Schneider reetings to my fellow NEWEA colleagues! I am honored to accept the gavel and serve as the president of this distinguished a piercing and honest forum question-and- So, NEWEA colleagues, I ask that we work Gorganization for 2021. When I think of answer session. More than 170 attendees together to navigate NEWEA among these tides the many brilliant and professionally accomplished participated in this online discussion forum, and of change, to foster healthful diversity, and to be individuals who have held this position, I am truly many appeared deeply moved and inspired (as leaders of change—in NEWEA as well as in our Virgil J. Lloyd humbled to follow in their path, and I pledge to do am I) to continue this discussion and participate Senior Vice President in turning words into positive actions. I ask that we work together to navigate Fuss & O’Neill, Inc., Manchester, CT my best to maintain NEWEA’s role as a nationally We saw that same spirit again on the second NEWEA among these tides of change, [email protected] recognized leader in our industry. Tuesday of the Annual Conference with the to foster healthful diversity, and to be Today, we look around our industry and observe that we Women in Water Forum, “Commemorating the leaders of change—in NEWEA as well as are surrounded by an ocean of change—change in how we 100th Anniversary of the 19th Amendment.” My in our own organizations, in our culture, conduct conferences; change in how we work, where many heartfelt compliments go to Angela Moulton and indeed even in our lives of us now work remotely and probably will continue to do and Michaela Bogosh and their work group so, even after COVID; change in the workforce, through for arranging this forum, which featured more own organizations, in our culture, and indeed retirements and more deliberate, focused recruitment efforts; than 200 attendees! Fredie Kay provided a even in our lives. In the coming months the DE&I change in technology and sustainability. And a new adminis- fascinating history of women’s suffrage and Committee will announce many activities, such tration is in Washington that will likely pass an infrastructure the passage (barely 100 years ago) of the 19th as outreach and educational programs, and I bill and other legislation, profoundly affecting our industry Amendment to the U.S. Constitution that at urge you to participate and lend support. For and bringing further need for us to adapt to change. long last guaranteed women the right to vote. us to succeed, we all need to be “all-in” on this As we gaze upon this sea of change that surrounds us, we The personal highlight of this forum for me was change together. also see a building desire to look inwardly, both personally the inspiring panel discussion, where the four By making NEWEA an organization where and within our organizations, including NEWEA, to confront panelists shared deeply personal experiences everyone feels empowered, valued, respected, inequities and a need to better foster diversity and inclusivity. of overcoming obstacles and attitudes to estab- and safe, we will bring more people into the We have made progress, but we can do better. Long ago (in lish themselves in our water industry. These discussion, with more diverse backgrounds and the 1980s) when I attended my first Annual Conference as a challenges I did not have to face while coming more varied points of view. This will make us a young professional (incidentally the phrase YP would have to up through the industry, and, frankly, I wonder if stronger, more creative, more innovative, and wait another decade or two to be coined!), not much diversity I would have handled them with the same grace more dynamic organization. Including this diver- could be seen at NEWEA events, even with respect to age: and poise or level of success. sity of talent, creativity, and thought will enable in fact, the attendees skewed inarguably toward an older, An important concept was heard at both us to build a more robust association, with a predominantly white, all-male crowd. these forums: Let us not be afraid of change, self-sustaining formula for success. By contrast, fast forward to our recent Annual Conference, but rather let us embrace it. Or, to use the Finally, I thank my employer, Fuss & O’Neill, where on the first Thursday we experienced a wildly imagery heard during these forums: Sharing for its enthusiastic support over the years, both successful and energized Forum on Diversity, Equity, and the pie with more people does not mean there for me personally and for recognizing the value Inclusion (DE&I) that was prepared by our new ad hoc DE&I will be smaller slices with less to go around; it that NEWEA provides to our staff. And I thank Committee. Kudos to Chairperson Marina Fernandes and her means that together we will create and all share you, NEWEA colleagues, as well, and ask for committee for arranging an outstanding group of panelists in a bigger and more flavorful pie. There has your support in navigating the moving tides that included General Manager OJ McFoy of the Buffalo been progress, but it has been stiflingly slow. about us: Let us all strive to be industry leaders Sewer Authority. Mr. McFoy opened the day with a candid Both forums underscored that the time is now in fostering diversity and welcoming change. and inspiring keynote address and finished it by conducting for more meaningful and effective action.

6 | NEWEA JOURNAL / SPRING 2021 NEWEA JOURNAL / SPRING 2021 | 7 From the Editor

ello NEWEA! I hope all were able to enjoy the it’s about creating a bigger table so that there can be Fit-for-future: virtual Annual Conference, even though it more seats; this allows us to consider all perspectives was different. Major kudos to all the speakers, when making important decisions about water and the Creating climate resilient communities moderators, and, especially, the NEWEA staff environment that affect everyone. When asked how H Across New England, communities are taking action for a resilient for the hard work to make the most of this year’s Annual to ensure diverse representation in the water industry Conference experience. I enjoyed and in leadership roles, Ms. Speranza and sustainable future. Working closely with ecosystem partners and having the chance to chat “hello” to challenged the group to “look around communities, our experts help deliver inclusive and digital solutions to many of you, and I look forward to your network, and if everyone looks enhance the safety, equity, and adaptability of coastal regions worldwide. being all together sometime soon. In like you, it’s your responsibility to fix addition to boasting an impressive slew that.” Ms. Rand reflected on her career of technical presentations covering a progression through various leadership Arcadis is proud to partner with Techstars startup, Irys, to raise the comprehensive cross-section of our roles within NEWEA and attributed voice of citizens in project design and delivery. We have developed an industry’s most pressing challenges, those accomplishments to her drive easy-to-use community engagement app that enables community the program also covered discussions and passion for the field. Regarding a inclusion in the decision making process. Through the app, citizens surrounding other more human-like particularly vulnerable moment, she challenges faced by our industry and admitted that “even though at the time I can provide input through surveys, receive event notifications and country: diversity, equity, and inclusion. was the only black woman in the room, access project resources. The Town of Nantucket is one of the first The Women’s Environmental I didn’t feel like the only black woman communities to use the community engagement app.

Network (WEN) hosted a Women in in the room, because I had a role to Social icon Rounded square

Only use blue and/or white.

For more details check out our Brand Guidelines. Water Forum organized by Angela play and things to say.” She added that Connect with us Arcadis. Improving quality of life. Moulton and Michaela Bogosh. This Alexandra Greenfield (Bowen), PE she is pleased about the push toward event showcased the centennial of Environmental Engineer improving diversity but noted that there the 19th Amendment granting women CDM Smith is always room for more. the right to vote and presented [email protected] The feedback and praise after many of the challenges faced by the forum were reassuring. Some women since then during our fight toward equality. The participants commented that they found the panel to forum was moderated by the wildly enthusiastic and be empowering. Common feedback contained themes knowledgeable Fredie Kay, founder of Suffrage 100 of positivity, wisdom, hope for the future—themes MA. Ms. Kay related the largely unknown history of the indicative of a well-received forum. Some participants women’s suffrage movement to a crowd or more than suggested that they would welcome more visibility 200 industry professionals. She described many events around WEN and its networks, as it offers opportunities shaped by extremely brave influential women, many of of which some people may not be aware. More informa- whom are from our region. It’s sobering to reflect on how tion about WEN can be found at newea.org/WEN/. The far we’ve come, and even with that reflection in mind, it’s recorded Women in Water Forum is also posted to astoundingly evident how far we have yet to go. WEN’s homepage on the NEWEA website. WEN looks The impressive group of panelists included Liz Levin, forward to its next event in April. Stay tuned for more Megan Yoo Schneider, Elisa Speranza, and our very information as the date approaches. own past NEWEA president, Phyllis Arnold Rand. These Lastly, I thank Jennifer Kelly Lachmayr for her leader- four industry professionals each come from uncommon ship through this past year as president. Surely, none backgrounds with their own stories and experiences of us could have predicted the complex circumstances that have shaped them into the empowered leaders of your year in this role. Your leadership throughout the they are today. Ms. Kay posed questions to the year was much appreciated, and your guidance will panelists, each of whom responded with insightful, continue in years to come. I also offer a warm welcome honest, and, at the time, vulnerable responses. Ms. to our incoming president, Virgil Lloyd, who is dedicated Levin reflected on her time on the then newly merged to fostering an environment that promotes diversity, board of directors for the Massachusetts Department equity, and inclusion. As I hope you read in his debut ENGINEERING EXCELLENCE THAT of Transportation (MassDOT) and Massachusetts Bay President’s Message, Mr. Lloyd’s wise words resonated Transportation Authority (MBTA); the board initially with me, especially the following: “By making NEWEA consisted of five persons, only one of whom was a an organization where everyone feels empowered, IMPROVES QUALITY OF LIFE white man. It was a diverse board, and it was impressive valued, respected, and safe, we will bring more people how well it functioned because the board members into the discussion, with more diverse backgrounds and www.dewberry.com respected each other’s differences. When reflecting on more varied points of view.” This is exactly how great women in leadership roles, Ms. Schneider suggested things happen; after all, no one of us is as smart as all that it’s not just about creating more seats at the table, of us.

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10 | NEWEA JOURNAL / SPRING 2021 NEWEA JOURNAL / SPRING 2021 | 11 | induSTRY NEWS |

to produce the rolling three-year average. Such a system will enable a more complete and accurate assessment of recent water quality, better address precipitation variability from year to year, and allow real data trends to be more easily discerned. EPA has taken two additional actions to address elevated levels of nutrients harming water quality throughout the Charles River watershed. First, EPA has finalized a municipal Industry News stormwater permit that will improve stormwater management in Massachusetts communities. Stormwater is the leading source of the river’s phosphorus pollution, which EPA is observing the 25th anniversary of causes annual blooms of toxic algae in the river. Second, EPA using targeted grading methods to improve is gathering stakeholder input about how to address stormwater quality in the Charles River, Boston water runoff from commercial, industrial, institutional, and Housatonic River residential properties in the watershed that is not currently Ongoing water quality needs in the Charles regulated. EPA expects a decision this year. but raised questions about EPA’s decision to dispose of all 100% A A River on 25th anniversary of initiative A- A- “The Commonwealth is proud to partner with EPA, CRWA, excavated material at off-site facilities. In response to the EPA is observing the 25th anniversary of using targeted 80% B and local communities to help achieve the water quality board's decision, EPA initiated mediated negotiations with grading methods to improve water quality in the Charles improvements that we've seen in recent years along the eight parties to the appeal to see if there was one solution that 60% River. This year, as in earlier years, EPA is announcing a report Charles River,” said Kathy Baskin, assistant commissioner provided a more effective cleanup that parties could agree D- card for the river in coordination with the Charles River 40% for water resources in the Massachusetts Department of to. Those discussions led to the February 2020 Settlement Watershed Association (CRWA). The two organizations have Environmental Protection (MassDEP). “MassDEP will continue Agreement entered into by EPA, the State of Connecticut, the developed a new grading system to document water quality 20% to provide hands-on assistance with stormwater and water Rest of River Municipal Committee (comprising the towns for the length of the Charles River, rather than solely the quality issues to help to fully restore this historic waterway.” of Lee, Lenox, Great Barrington, Stockbridge, and Sheffield, 0% lower basin (Watertown to Boston), and other enhancements Upper Stop Upper Lower Lower Muddy Massachusetts), the City of Pittsfield, Massachusetts Audubon to the grading methodology to provide additional information Watershed River Middle Middle Basin River Final MS4 Permit Society, Berkshire Environmental Action Team, C. Jeffrey to the public. Watershed Watershed On December 9, 2020, EPA finalized targeted modifications to Cook, and GE. The cleanup plan in the Revised Final Permit is Figure 1. 2019 Charles River report card “EPA is proud of our 25-year history of collaboration and the 2016 Small Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) consistent with the 2020 Settlement Agreement. (courtesy Charles River Watershed Association) partnership to improve water quality in the Charles River,” general permit for 267 Massachusetts communities. The permit, “EPA is proud of the hard work and commitment of all said EPA New England Regional Administrator Dennis Deziel. which are both public health hazards, especially for boaters which will apply separately to 34 communities in the Charles stakeholders to achieve a cleaned-up Housatonic River that "Thanks to a long-term commitment by many organizations and anyone who contacts the water. Cyanobacterial blooms, River watershed, updates stormwater management across will remain a scenic and recreational foundation in Berkshire and dedicated individuals, we have seen real improvement in which have occurred with greater frequency in the lower urbanized areas that will better protect rivers, streams, ponds, County and Connecticut for generations to come,” said the Charles River and its value as a recreational hub in the basin, are caused partly by excess phosphorous washing into lakes, and wetlands from harmful pollutants. While updating Dennis Deziel. “This cleanup plan will protect public health Boston metro area, and in upper reaches of the river system. the watershed from pavement and other impervious surfaces. ecological protection, the permit also maximizes flexibility for and restore a cleaner, healthier and more robust ecological However, more work needs to be done, especially to reduce CSO discharges occur when heavy precipitation events over- municipalities to tailor efforts to their needs and local conditions. community in and near the river.” phosphorus pollution.” whelm the sewer system and discharges to the river of sewage The Revised Final Permit requires GE to clean up contami- mixed with stormwater become necessary to prevent sewage Landmark cleanup plan for Housatonic River nation in river sediment, banks, and floodplain soil that pose Charles River Report Card backups into streets and residences. EPA has issued a Revised Final Permit for the Rest of River unacceptable risks to human health and the environment. Since 1995, EPA has issued an annual grade based on water “While E. coli bacteria levels are an important public health cleanup plan of the Housatonic River. The Revised Final The excavated material will be disposed of in two ways— quality in the lower basin of the Charles River, using E. coli data indicator, they do not tell the whole story,” said Emily Norton, Permit, issued under the Resource Conservation and Recovery materials with the highest concentrations of PCBs will be from monthly water samples by CRWA volunteers. Starting last executive director of CRWA. “People have a right to know Act (RCRA), spells out the required cleanup measures to transported off-site for disposal at licensed disposal facilities, year, CRWA expanded the assessment to include all 80 miles about the additional risks caused by toxic algae blooms be followed by General Electric Company (GE) to remove and the remaining lower-level PCB materials will be consoli- (129 km) of the river and two tributaries, based on data from 39 and raw sewage discharges. The more people know what contamination caused by polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). dated on-site at a location in Lee. The cleanup is estimated sampling sites rather than eight. The current assessment evalu- is happening to the river, the more motivated they'll be to The Revised Final RCRA Permit Modification (Revised Final to cost $576 million and will take approximately two to three ates water samples from 2019 and looks at six sections of the support the investments necessary to clean it up. The data Permit) updates EPA’s 2016 cleanup plan for the river, its flood- years for initial design and 13 years for implementation. As river: the upper watershed (Hopkinton to Medfield), the upper make it very clear: We have this beautiful resource sitting in plains, and other surrounding areas. part of the agreement, GE will initiate sampling and design middle watershed (Sherborn to Dedham), the lower middle our backyard. If we want to protect it, we have to step it up.” EPA’s remedy as outlined in the Revised Final Permit activities during any appeals, allowing for remediation to watershed (Newton to Waltham), the lower basin (Watertown to The new grading system demonstrates the wide variability protects human health and the environment and will result begin two to three years earlier than if these design activities Boston), the Stop River, and the Muddy River. in water quality in different river stretches. Based on 2019 data, in more contaminated sediment removed from the river and were suspended during appeals. Most of the sediment and The new grading system continues to measure the grades range from an A in the middle reaches of the Charles surrounding areas than EPA’s previous 2016 decision. The floodplain cleanup is targeted within the first 11 miles (18 km) percentage of time bacterial water quality meets swimming River (Sherborn to Waltham) to a D- in the Muddy River, a cleanup plan has specific provisions to expedite cleanup, in Pittsfield, Lee, and Lenox. Phasing the work will disperse and boating standards. Boating standards continue to be met tributary in Boston. The upper watershed, while experiencing significantly enhance the PCB removal in the cleanup, and the effects of construction over time and locations. most of the time throughout the watershed, while swimming reduced water levels and encroaching development in the provide for safe, effective disposal of the excavated materials. Finalizing and issuing the Revised Final Permit follows a standards are typically met in dry weather but continue to be area, received an A-. The popular lower basin of the Charles Additionally, the Revised Final Permit reiterates the Adaptive lengthy and robust process where EPA solicited and consid- affected by precipitation events. In addition to E. coli bacteria, River received a B. Management requirements of the 2016 permit. ered public input on the proposed revised cleanup plan. the river is also being graded on cyanobacteria (toxic blue– Another change in the grading is that a three-year rolling EPA’s 2016 cleanup plan was challenged by various parties Additionally, in February and March 2020, EPA participated green algae) blooms and combined sewer overflows (CSOs), average will now be used to calculate the grade for each segment. before the EPA Environmental Appeals Board. In a 2018 deci- in three public information sessions held in Lee, Great Note: All EPA industry news provided by EPA Press Office The current year’s grade is averaged with the prior two years sion, the board endorsed EPA’s decisions on the PCB cleanup Barrington, and Pittsfield on the 2020 Settlement Agreement.

Following these sessions, EPA issued a proposal to modify Springfield organization invited to apply New Bedford harbor cleanup leading to the 2016 cleanup decision and held a public comment for EPA WIFIA loan to improve water economic development period lasting over two months. EPA has entered all quality Rapid progress has been made in addressing PCB comments received into the Administrative Record. It has In early January 2021, EPA announced that 55 new contamination in New Bedford Harbor in the past responded to all significant comments and has modified projects in 20 states were being invited to apply for several years. After 17 years, the Superfund dredging of several permit provisions, including additional language approximately $5.1 billion in Water Infrastructure PCB-contaminated sediments in both the upper and regarding commitments on coordination and consultation Finance and Innovation Act (WIFIA) loans. This funding lower harbor below the low tide line was completed in with stakeholders throughout the design and implementa- will help finance $12 billion in clean water and drinking March 2020. EPA has removed 1 million yd3 (765,000 m3) tion of the cleanup. water infrastructure projects. One invitation was to be of PCB-contaminated sediment from the harbor, EPA recognizes that many of those who commented extended to the Springfield Water and Sewer Commission ending the subtidal dredging. were opposed to the construction of the upland disposal in Springfield, Massachusetts, to apply for a loan of This cleanup has resulted in EPA transferring facility (UDF) in Lee. After evaluating the comments, EPA $252 million for its Water and Wastewater Infrastructure control to the City of New Bedford of a 5 ac (2 ha) confirmed its conclusion that the selected plan in the Renewal Program. industrial port facility with rail access, formerly Revised Final Permit is the best approach to the cleanup, Since the first WIFIA loan closed in 2018, EPA has used as a sediment dewatering facility within New that it can and will be done safely and effectively, and that announced 41 WIFIA loans that are providing $7.8 billion Bedford’s working waterfront. The site is one of it addresses the primary risks at the site—PCB contamina- in credit assistance to help finance $16.8 billion for water the only heavy-duty, rail-accessible port facilities in tion in the river and floodplain. infrastructure. EPA received 67 letters of interest from New England. The marine bulkhead is reinforced for The Revised Final Permit resembles the Draft Revised both public and private entities in response to the 2020 berthing large cargo ships and can support heavy New Bedford Harbor 2020 Permit issued for public review and comment on July WIFIA Notice of Funding Availability (NOFA). After a cranes and other shoreline equipment abutting the 9, 2020. Many of the comments during the public comment statutorily required review process, the WIFIA Selection future North Terminal site. This valuable commercial/ ever undertaken, and this project has been full of period highlighted issues already addressed in the draft Committee asked for submission of loan applications industrial resource will now be transferred to the city challenges since day one. Our team rose to meet those permit and which remain in the Revised Final Permit. from borrowers representing 55 prospective projects and for beneficial reuse. challenges, and now we are turning this valuable piece These include air sampling, effective PCB remediation placed three prospective projects on a waitlist. “EPA is proud that our lengthy history addressing of real estate back to the people of New Bedford.” alternatives, and extensive coordination between EPA and To learn more about the 55 projects that are invited to industrial pollution in New Bedford Harbor has Now that the subtidal Superfund dredging is the communities. apply, visit epa.gov/wifia/wifia-selected-projects. achieved substantial results. EPA is making good complete, and transfer of the dewatering facility final- Together with the Revised Final Permit, EPA continues to on our commitment to see this project through to ized, remediation will focus on those shoreline/salt- support the investigation and development of alternatives EPA finalizes municipal stormwater completion for the residents of New Bedford,” said marsh areas in the upper harbor and Acushnet River to address PCB contamination in the Housatonic River, general permit modifications for Mr. Deziel. “Through our cleanup work, EPA is north of Route 195 that have not yet been remediated. especially technologies that will render the PCBs non-toxic New Hampshire and Massachusetts ensuring that the Harbor does not pose health risks During 2020, the two northern-most shoreline zones or significantly reduce their toxicity. To that end, EPA communities to people contacting sediments or, in the long-term, immediately south of the Wood/Slocum Street bridge committed in the February 2020 Settlement Agreement EPA has finalized targeted modifications to the 2017 Small eating fish in and around the harbor.” have been remediated, resulting in over 20,000 yd3 to facilitate research and testing of innovative treatment Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) general The expedited work to remove and safely dispose (15,000 m3) of shoreline and saltmarsh sediment being and other technologies and approaches for reducing PCB permit for 46 communities in New Hampshire and 267 in of contaminated sediment from New Bedford Harbor excavated and shipped off-site. toxicity and/or concentrations in excavated soil and/or Massachusetts. was made possible by a historic 2012 settlement During 2021, EPA and the U.S. Army Corps of sediment before, during, or after disposal in a landfill. The changes reflected in these final permits are limited reached between the federal and state governments, Engineers will continue to remediate areas south of To follow up on its commitment, EPA will discuss with to modifications to permits already in effect and being and AVX Corp. for $366.25 million, plus interest, for Pleasant Street in Fairhaven and south of Belleville stakeholders designing and issuing a “Challenge” competi- implemented. The modifications either clarify permit cleanup costs at the Superfund site. The settlement Road in New Bedford. The shoreline remediation tion (such as those found at challenge.gov), to identify terms or make them more flexible in implementation. paved the way for expedited implementation of follows similar procedures: All removed soil/sediment innovative technology strategies and solutions that may Modifications include a provision whereby municipalities the cleanup at full capacity, providing more rapid will be thickened with Portland cement at EPA’s apply to this site. EPA’s planned “Challenge” for PCB can seek implementation schedule flexibilities, stream- protection of public health and the environment in Sawyer Street facility and then disposed off-site at a remediation solutions will likely be in stages, with the first lined reporting and requirements for new development addressing PCB-contaminated sediment in the harbor. licensed Toxic Substances Control Act landfill. The stage a competition to identify potential technologies that and redevelopment sites, and more time for meeting “I thank Regional Administrator Dennis Deziel for excavated shoreline areas will be backfilled with clean meet the requirements. The winning solutions will move to post-construction stormwater control milestones. They his strong partnership with the city the last two years topsoil and planted with thousands of native salt the next stage, site-specific testing. Such testing could take either clarify language in the General Permits or provide that has led to significant progress in the cleanup marsh grasses, trees, and shrubs. Air monitoring occurs place at or near the UDF location or another appropriate new, targeted flexibilities for certain permit requirements. of New Bedford Harbor,” said City of New Bedford throughout to ensure it is being performed safely. location. Testing will include evaluating treatment applica- “EPA appreciates the hard work and input from Mayor Jon Mitchell. “While much work remains in Even though the subtidal Superfund dredging is bility to the soil/sediment from the river, implementation stakeholders on this municipal stormwater permit,” said intertidal areas, the city can now take control of the complete, fish and seafood caught in and around the ability, cost-effectiveness, operational challenges, treatment Mr. Deziel. “When fully implemented, the MS4 permit will EPA’s former dewatering facility, which is ready to be harbor will remain contaminated with PCBs for some residuals management, and other factors. EPA will incorpo- protect our environment and adhere to the law, while used as a port facility to support a variety of marine time. Local fishing professionals and hobbyists should rate steps for public involvement throughout this process. also allowing municipal leaders the flexibility to make commerce.” familiarize themselves with applicable fishing restric- EPA signed the Revised Final Permit on December 16, strategic decisions about investments that make sense in “Today is a proud day for the (U.S. Army) Corps of tions and advisories to ensure harvested seafood is 2020, and elected to make the “notification date” of the their communities.” Engineers as we have partnered with the EPA on the safe to eat. permit on January 4, 2021, meaning the Revised Final The modified permit became effective on January clean-up of this harbor for more than 30 years,” said EPA held a virtual public meeting on January 13, Permit became effective on February 3, 2021. 6, 2021. Municipalities and other regulated entities do Col. John A. Atilano II, Commander, U.S. Army Corps 2021, to discuss the status of the harbor cleanup, All documents related to the Revised Final RCRA Permit not need to submit a new Notice of Intent (NOI) for of Engineers, New England District. “Contaminated including remedial work planned for 2021. For more Modification are part of the Administrative Record and continued coverage under the modified permit. since the 1940s, the New Bedford Harbor is one of the information, visit epa.gov/superfund/newbedford. available at epa.gov/ge-housatonic. largest and most complex cleanups our District has

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| long- and short-chain PFAS |

INTRODUCTION that unintended reactions occur during secondary Municipal wastewater treatment facilities (WWTFs) (biological) treatment, potentially increasing the serve many important functions, including the concentration of terminal PFAS (e.g., PFOA and removal of solids, pathogens, nutrients, and PFOS) due to the enzymatic oxidation of unmea- regulated contaminants before water is discharged sured fluorotelomer or precursor compounds in the to receiving water bodies and groundwater. These influent (Schultz et al., 2006; Sinclair & Kannan, 2006; treatment facilities collect and concentrate waste Sun et al., 2012; Yan et al., 2012; Yu et al., 2009). The Fate of long- and short-chain PFAS, products from industrial, commercial, and residen- separation of specific PFAS into solid or aqueous tial sources, and they are conduits back into the phases may also occur, driving accumulation of more pharmaceuticals, and personal care environment for these undegraded contaminants hydrophobic constituents into wastewater solids through effluent discharge or land application of and more hydrophilic constituents into the effluent products in wastewater biosolids biosolids (Angeles et al., 2020; Higgins et al., 2005; (Huset et al., 2011; Ma & Shih, 2010; Sinclair & Kannan, Kovalakova et al., 2020; Sinclair & Kannan, 2006). 2006; Zhou et al., 2010). To this end, municipal Sydney Adams, Cassidy Yates, Carmela Antonellis, Jenna Luek, PhD, James P. Malley, Jr., PhD, Unless they are part of a water reuse system, wastewater sludge has been shown to contain many municipal WWTFs are generally not optimized to perfluorinated carboxylic acids (including PFHxA, and Paula Mouser, PhD, PE (corresponding author) remove organic micropollutants such as per- and PFOA, PFNA) at concentrations 100 to 1,000 times Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of New Hampshire, Durham, New Hampshire polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and pharmaceu- higher than those measured for these constituents in Abstract | Contaminants of emerging concern (CECs), including pharmaceutical and personal care ticals and personal care products (PPCPs). PFAS and the effluent (Dauchy et al., 2017; Sun et al., 2012). This PPCPs represent two large and distinct classes of highlights a potential solids-liquids “fractionation” of products (PPCPs) and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), are widely present in the environment contaminants of emerging concern (CECs) present PFAS within the facility (Arvaniti et al., 2012). due to decades of use in industrial, commercial, medicinal, and household products. For some of these in low concentrations (parts per trillion to parts PFAS represent only one category of CECs in compounds, municipal wastewater treatment facilities (WWTFs) are important collectors, concentrators, and per billion), are unregulated, and may adversely wastewater. PPCPs are diverse and sometimes conduits of CECs to the environment. Undegraded CECs partition into aqueous and sludge phases based on affect humans and ecological systems (Domingo & biologically active compounds that, when discharged their physical and chemical properties, including hydrophobicity and solubility. Here we evaluated changes Nadal, 2017; Gaballah et al., 2020; Kovalakova et al., to the environment, may pose a risk to human health in 24 PFAS and 21 PPCPs during wastewater treatment and assessed the composition of PFAS in biosolids 2020; Liu & Gin, 2018; Yin et al., 2017). Information is or aquatic ecosystems (Baran et al., 2011; de Jesus scarce on the diversity and concentration of CECs in Gaffney et al., 2017). PPCPs have been detected in post-stabilization treatment. Shorter-chain PFAS were abundant in wastewater effluent, while precursor WWTFs, particularly within residuals. Recently, land both wastewater effluent and receiving water bodies and longer-chain PFAS dominated in sludge. Antibiotics, anticonvulsants, and flame retardants were three application using biosolids from WWTFs has been due to their incomplete removal within WWTFs common PPCPs found in effluent and sludge. associated with PFAS contamination in agricultural (Archer et al., 2017; Kovalakova et al., 2020; Yin et al., products (García-Santiago et al., 2016; Petrie et al., 2017). They have also been known to accumulate The composition of PFAS in sludge that had not undergone pathogen or vector reduction treatment 2015; Vestergren et al., 2013; Walters et al., 2010), raising in municipal wastewater sludge (Huang et al., 2019; processes showed similar relative abundances of short-chain, long-chain, and precursor PFAS across public health concerns because of the potential Oberoi et al., 2019), with sorption affinity influenced New Hampshire and Vermont facilities. Sludge stabilization processes did not influence total PFAS toxicity and bioaccumulation of these constituents. by pH (Hörsing et al., 2011), temperature (Hörsing et concentrations. However, biosolids treatment approaches altered PFAS composition based on Better characterizing the fate of CECs in WWTFs is al., 2011), and solids retention time (Hidrovo et al., structure and/or chain length. Of the 39 biosolids considered, 29 had perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) important for identifying their sources and sinks In Review; Huang et al., 2019). Understanding how concentrations above Maine Department of Environmental Protection screening levels for beneficial use and understanding human and ecological health design factors influence the behavior of both PFAS risks from receiving water bodies. and PPCPs within WWTFs will improve our ability to (5.2 μg/kg), indicating that the adoption of similar regulatory limits in New Hampshire and Vermont would PFAS contain a characteristic carbon–fluorine predict their fate. significantly constrain biosolids end uses or require changes in the management of wastewater and/or backbone and are known for their chemical and Residuals are a large unknown concerning the sludges to reduce PFAS levels. This work provides insight into the fate of PFAS and PPCPs in municipal thermal stability (Sun et al., 2012), resistance to overall PFAS and PPCP load from wastewater wastewater facilities and highlights knowledge gaps for CECs in wastewater residuals. biochemical degradation (Lindstrom et al., 2011), facilities. Sludges may be disposed of in landfills or environmental mobility (Brendel et al., 2018), bioaccu- beneficially used after stabilization (e.g., composting, Keywords | PFAS, PPCPs, micropollutants, biosolids, sludge, wastewater treatment mulation potential (Giesy & Kannan, 2001; Lindstrom digestion, or dehumidification). Several recent et al., 2011; Presentato et al., 2020), and toxicity (Das et studies suggest PPCPs and PFAS from land-applied al., 2015; Koskela et al., 2016). The physical–chemical biosolids may accumulate in soils (Ma & Shih, 2010; properties of PFAS are heavily influenced by chain Pan & Chu, 2016; Sepulvado et al., 2011), agricultural length and functional groups. Longer-chain PFAS, crops (Al-Farsi et al., 2017; Blaine et al., 2013; Wu et and PFAS that contain a sulfonate moiety, are al., 2013), and food products (Domingo & Nadal, 2017; increasingly toxic and bioaccumulative, and have a Knutsen et al., 2018; Vestergren et al., 2013), with higher affinity for solids over their short-chain and potential implications up the food chain. In 2019, carboxylic acid-containing counterparts (Sepulvado more than half (51 percent) of WWTF residuals et al., 2011). Research has revealed that WWTFs are produced in the United States were beneficially ineffective at removing PFAS using traditional used in land application (US EPA, 2016), suggesting activated sludge technologies (Gallen et al., 2018), the possible ubiquitous presence of PFAS or PPCPs with some facilities reporting little removal or in agricultural lands and urban plots receiving even an increase between influent and effluent biosolids-based products. Knowledge is limited as (Tavasoli et al., In Review). Some evidence suggests to how differing stabilization approaches (e.g., pH

manipulation, temperature modification, or microbial with isotope dilution at Alpha Analytical Laboratory WWTF 1 WWTF 2 WWTF 3 WWTF 4 Group Compound Effluent Sludge Effluent Sludge Effluent Sludge Effluent Sludge digestion) influence the composition and concentra- (Portsmouth, New Hampshire), quantifying 24 PFAS PFBA tion of CECs in biosolids derived from WWTF sludge. congeners. Samples for PPCP analysis were shipped Short Chain PFCA PFPeA Short-chain PFAS increased in residential compost overnight to Weck Laboratories (Hacienda Heights, PFHxA (Choi et al., 2019), while certain PFAS congeners California) for extraction and LC/MS analysis with PFHpA PFOA increased as a result of heat treatment (Lazcano et electrospray ionization following EPA Method 1694. PFNA al., 2019). On the other hand, composting decreased PFDA certain PPCP concentrations (Brown et al., 2019). Analysis of PPCP and PFAS Data Long Chain PFCA PFUnA Previously, we analyzed PPCPs and PFAS in Concentrations of PFAS and PPCPs in aqueous and PFDoA WWTFs serving New Hampshire seacoast communi- solid samples were converted into molar concen- PFTrDA PFTA ties. PFAS were assessed using an isotope dilution trations for abundance analysis based on their Short Chain PFSA PFBS method combined with a total oxidizable precursor individual molecular weights. PFAS were classified PFPeS (TOP) assay, with season influencing the concentra- as short chain, long chain, and precursor/fluorotel- PFHxS PFHpS tion of terminal products (Tavasoli et al., In Review). omers based on carbon chain length (Tavasoli et al., Long Chain PFSA PPCPs degraded at different rates depending on In Review, Buck et al. 2011) and information from PFOS PFNS secondary treatment design and solids retention the Interstate Technology and Regulatory Council PFDS time (Hidrovo et al., In Review). Here we extend this (ITRC) as shown in Table 1. Short-chain PFAS were 4:2FTS analysis to consider the relationship of PFAS and defined as carboxylic acid compounds (PFCAs) with 6:2FTS PPCPs in aqueous and solid phases. We classify perfluoroalkyl chains of six or fewer CF2 moieties Fluorotelomers and 8:2FTS NEtFOSAA compounds based on chain length and functional and sulfonic acid compounds (PFSAs) with five Precursors NMeFOSAA group moiety, and estimate distribution coefficients or fewer CF2 moieties. Long-chain PFAS included FOSA (KD) that describe the affinity of these compounds PFCAs and PFSAs with up to 14 and 10 perfluoroalkyl for the sludge. Composition and concentration of chain lengths, respectively. The precursors quanti- Table 1. Diversity of PFAS detected in the effluent and sludge of four New Hampshire WWTFs. Compounds are classified PFAS are further compared to samples collected in fied in this study included three fluorotelomers and based on chain length and functional group. Detected compounds are shown in gray, while compounds that were not WWTFs and biosolids processing facilities in New three sulfonamides. PPCPs were classified based detected are shown in white. Hampshire and Vermont and placed in the context on application (pharmaceutical versus personal Environmental Conservation (VTDEC) personnel in at least one effluent sample, while 18 were of Maine residuals screening levels. With several care product) and specific use (e.g., antibiotic, anti- and the report author. Samples reported by NHDES detected in at least one sludge sample (Table 1). A New England states considering PFAS regulation in histamine, or insecticide). Adsorption–desorption and VTDEC were analyzed using solid-phase extrac- greater diversity of compounds belonging to PFCAs wastewater effluents and biosolids, this work has distribution coefficients D(K in L/kg) were calculated tion followed by LC/MS/MS analysis with isotope were consistently detected, whereas most PFSAs implications for the characterization and research by dividing the dewatered or wet sludge concentra- dilution at Alpha Analytical Laboratory quantifying and precursors were sporadically detected across needed to better understand this issue in municipal tion (ng/kg or ppt) of the analyte by its concentra- 24 PFAS congeners. Database samples for New the media. Specifically, four PFCAs (PFPeA, PFHxA, WWTF biosolids. tion in effluent (ng/L). PFAS and PPCP composition Hampshire, Vermont, and Maine that did not report PFOA, and PFDA) and one PFSA (PFOS) were found comparisons, as well as concentration and KD all 24 PFAS constituents were excluded from this in all samples. In contrast, three long-chain carbox- METHODS comparisons, were analyzed in Systat SigmaPlot 14.5 analysis. This resulted in the exclusion of all Maine ylic and sulfonic acids (PFDoA, PFTA, and PFDS) and Sampling and Analysis of University of New using a Kruskal–Wallis one-way analysis of variance samples and the 2018 New Hampshire samples from two PFSA precursors (NEtFOSAA and FOSA) were Hampshire-Collected Samples on ranks, with Dunn’s method for pairwise multiple our analysis. detected in sludge only. Samples for PFAS and PPCP analysis were collected comparisons. As the wastewater moved through the treatment from five locations within four WWTFs in south- RESULTS train, we observed a shift toward increased relative eastern New Hampshire in July 2019. Collection Metadata Analysis of Publicly Available Data PFAS are Fractionated along the Wastewater abundance of short-chain compounds in the effluent points included secondary influent, secondary Publicly available sludge and biosolids data collected Treatment Train (Figure 1—next page). In contrast, sludges were effluent, chlorination basin, dechlorination basin by or reported to state regulatory agencies in New Chain length is often used as a classifier for PFAS dominated by higher relative abundance of long- (representing facility “effluent”), and dewatered Hampshire, Vermont, and Maine were analyzed chemical stability (Lindstrom et al., 2011; Sun et al., chain PFAS and fluorotelomer and precursor PFAS. sludge. Discrete aqueous grab samples were taken WWTFs were chosen based on having similar 2012), mobility (Brendel et al., 2018), and solubility Moreover, average ∑PFAS concentrations in sludge using sampling procedures and precautions influent sources to University of New Hampshire (Huset et al., 2011; Zhou et al., 2010). Short-chain PFAS were 878- to 1,871-fold higher than average ∑PFAS described in EPA Method 537.1 for PFAS in drinking (UNH) samples. We sought data for both PFAS and are generally more soluble and mobile in aqueous measured in the effluent (Figure 1). This partitioning water samples. PFAS samples were collected into 1 L PPCPs but could only obtain information on PFAS systems, while PFAS with a longer perfluoroalkyl to sludge is consistent with previous work showing polyethylene bottles with no preservatives, while in publicly available wastewater treatment and chain are less soluble and have an increased affinity an increased affinity for solids and a correspond- PPCP samples were collected into 1 L amber glass biosolids samples. PFAS data for New Hampshire for solids. UNH collected and analyzed 24 PFAS in ingly higher adsorption–desorption distribution bottles containing sodium azide and ascorbic acid. facilities collected between March 2017 through four WWTFs discharging into tributaries connected coefficient (KD) in PFAS congeners with a greater A field blank for both PFAS and PPCPs was collected July 2020 were obtained from the New Hampshire to New Hampshire estuaries and color-coded the perfluoroalkyl chain length (Arvaniti et al., 2014; at one facility for quality assurance and quality Department of Environmental Services OneStop measured PFAS based on their structure and chain Gallen et al., 2017; Guerra et al., 2014) or containing a control. Sludge samples were collected into 120 ml database (NHDES Onestop-Search, 2008). Data from length. Fluorotelomers and precursors are shown in sulfonate moiety (Higgins et al., 2005). jars using a dedicated metal scoop. Samples were Vermont facilities collected between September and gray; short- and long-chain PFCAs are shown in light The dominance of long-chain and precursor/ placed immediately on ice and held at 39°F (4°C) until October 2019 were from published reports (Poly- and or dark green, while short- and long-chain PFSAs are fluorotelomer structures in sludge was also observed shipment. PFAS were analyzed using solid-phase Perfluoroalkyl Substances at Wastewater Treatment shown in orange or dark red, respectively (Table 1). in sludge samples analyzed from other WWTFs extraction followed by liquid chromatography/ Facilities and Landfill Leachate Summary Report Among the constituents analyzed that exit the across New Hampshire and Vermont (Figure 2). tandem mass spectrometry (LC/MS/MS) analysis 2019, 2020), with insight by Vermont Department of facility in aqueous or solid phases, 13 were detected Total ∑PFAS concentrations across New Hampshire

Figure 1. A) Relative abundance (percentage of total molar mass) of short- chain, long-chain, and precursor PFAS through the wastewater treatment process, and B) total PFAS for aqueous and sludge samples. Bars and Figure 2. PFAS concentrations in WWTF sludge in samples reported by (A) UNH, (B) NHDES, and (C) VTDEC. PFAS are classified whiskers represent average and standard deviation for four WWTFs. as long- and short-chain compounds belonging to PFCA or PFSA and precursor/fluorotelomer compounds, as noted in the methods. Dewatered sludge samples were collected from sludge cake, while NHDES and VTDEC were wet sludge samples. and Vermont samples analyzed here ranged from al., In Review). Total PPCP concentrations entering 12 to 204 μg/kg. Samples collected by UNH showed secondary treatment were on average 12 times A B long-chain compounds made up 56 to 82 percent higher than measured in the sludge, while sludge Pharmaceuticals Personal Care Products Aqueous Phase Sludge of total measured PFAS based on molar mass, with concentrations were 3.7 times higher than concentra- precursors composing an additional 14 to 36 percent tions exiting the facility after dechlorination. This Secondary Influent (Figure 1). Similarly, samples collected by others in suggests that PPCPs are not concentrating in the New Hampshire and Vermont showed long-chain sludge to the same degree as PFAS; however, overall Secondary Effluent PFAS comprised up to 84 percent with precursors/ concentrations of total measured PPCPs in sludge 5 fluorotelomers up to 60 percent. Consistently, long- (6x10 ppt) are about 6 times higher than those Chlorination chain PFSAs were higher in relative abundance and measured PFAS (1.1x105 ppt). concentration than PFCAs in sludge, with average All 21 PPCPs were detected at one or more PFOS concentrations (11 ng/kg) about threefold locations in the treatment train; however, their Dechlorination higher than that of PFOA (3.9 ng/kg)—Figure 2 relative distribution varied by location. Compounds (Arvaniti et al., 2014; Gallen et al., 2018; Guerra et al., classified as analgesics and stimulants dominated Sludge 2014; Higgins et al., 2005; Yu et al., 2009). within the primary effluent; flame retardants and an anticonvulsant had the highest relative abundance PPCPs are Primarily Degraded During in the facility effluent; and antibiotics dominated 0 20 40 60 80 100 120 0.0 5.0e+4 1.0e+5 1.5e+5 2.0e+5 2.5e+5 Treatment, but Some Accumulate in Sludge within the sludge (Figure 4A—page 24). Other PPCP PPCP Composition by Molar Mass (%) Average Concentration (Aqueous ppt) The relative abundance of compounds classified classes commonly detected in the sludge included as pharmaceuticals versus personal care products a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), an Figure 3. A) Relative abundance (percentage of total molar mass) of PPCPs 0.0 5.0e+5 1.0e+6 1.5e+6 2.0e+6 2.5e+6 remained consistent through the treatment train anticonvulsants, an insecticide, and a stimulant. through the wastewater treatment process, and B) total PPCPs for aqueous and sludge samples. Bars and whiskers represent averages and standard Average Concentration (Sludge ppt) (Figure 3A), with pharmaceutical compounds Substantial variability was observed in the number deviations for four WWTFs. composing 54 to 69 percent and personal care prod- of PPCPs detected in sludge across these four facili- ucts composing 31 to 50 percent relative abundance ties (Figure 4B—page 24). Flame retardants (TCPP we calculated an adsorption–desorption distribution affinity for sludge compared to PFOA in these systems. by molar mass. In contrast to PFAS, where the total and TDCPP) were detected in all sludge samples. coefficient (KD) based on measured concentrations The range of KD values observed here is consistent concentration remained relatively unchanged during Commonly detected antibiotics included cipro- in sludge and secondary effluent for four New with previous data for secondary sludge, with PFOS treatment, total measured PPCP concentrations floxacin and trimethoprim. Other PPCPs detected Hampshire treatment facilities and four Vermont KD values typically an order of magnitude larger diminished greatly from an average total 7,216 ppt to in one or more sludges included azithromycin, facilities. In general, the log KD increased with higher than PFOA, although reported distribution coef- 165 ppt between secondary treatment and dechlori- sulfamethoxazole, and methadone. fluoroalkyl chain length (Figure 5—page 25). PFAS ficients for each range over several orders of magni- nation (Figure 3B). Most of this reduction occurred having the same chain length (e.g., eight CF2 units) tude (Arvaniti et al., 2012; Yu et al., 2009). Sorption during secondary treatment, with further removal Distribution of PFAS in Sludge Varies with but containing different functional groups (carboxylic of several PFAAs and precursors to sediments have from chlorination, indicating many of the measured Fluoroalkyl Chain Length and Functional Group versus sulfonic acids) differed considerably in their been shown to be positively correlated with the PPCPs were transformed during biological treat- To assess whether PFAS chain length or functional log KD. For example, the mean log KD for PFOA was 2.6 fraction of sediment organic carbon and calcium ment and, less so, during disinfection (Hidrovo et group influenced compound fate in these WWTFs, compared to 3.5 for PFOS, indicating a 10 times higher in solution, and negatively correlated with solution

A) diversity of emerging contaminants, including Secondary Influent both PFAS and PPCPs in stabilized biosolids. Using Analgesic sample data for biosolids processing facilities Antibiotic in New Hampshire and Vermont between 2019 Secondary Effluent Anti-Convulsant and 2020 (some of which accept residuals from B-Blocker Massachusetts), we applied the same PFAS cate- Narcotic gorical classification to the data (short chain, long Chlorination Sedative chain, and precursors/fluorotelomers). Data gathered SSRI included composted biosolids (n=9), anaerobically Statin digested biosolids (n=8), lime-stabilized biosolids Flame Retardants Dechlorination (n=5), and sludges with no processes to significantly Insecticide reduce pathogens or vector attraction (No PSRP or Treatment Process Treatment Stimulant VAR, n=13). Samples for several other stabilization Tobacco Metabolite Sludge approaches were available but were not included due to insufficient sample size. Significant differences were observed in the Calculated adsorption–desorption distribution coefficient D(K ) based on sludge and secondary effluent 0 20 40 60 80 100 relative abundance of short-chain compounds and precursor/fluorotelomers for these biosolids samples concentrations. Each CF2 unit indicates one carbon and two fluorine molecules (fluoroalkyl chain length). Average Percent Abundance by Weight (Figure 6a). Composted samples had a much higher B) percent composition of short-chain PFAS relative to Several variables within these stabilization Acetaminophen all other stabilization treatment samples (one-way processes may influence the PFAS composition Amoxicillin ANOVA, p<0.001); this predominance of short-chain in biosolids products, including moisture content, Azithromycin WWTF 1 PFAS was observed in seven of the eight composted temperature, pH, oxidation-reduction potential, Ciprofloxacin Sulfamethoxazole samples. Conversely, the relative abundance of and biological activity (Choi et al., 2019; Dinglasan Trimethoprim precursors in both lime-stabilized and anaerobi- et al., 2004; Guerra et al., 2014; Lazcano et al., 2019). Carbamazepine cally digested samples was significantly greater Controlled laboratory and field studies that WWTF 2 Phenytoin (Dilantin) Primidone than that in composted samples (one-way ANOVA, characterize PFAS in all sources used (e.g., residuals Atenolol p=0.012). No significant differences were observed in or compost inputs) and produced during stabiliza- Methadone the abundance of long-chain compounds or in the tion (including biosolids and condensates, gases) Facility Diazepam Meprobamate average ∑PFAS by biosolids treatment (Figure 6B, would greatly improve our understanding of the WWTF 3 Fluoxetin Kruskal–Wallis ANOVA, p=0.270). The predominance factors influencing these preliminary trends and Atorvastatin of short-chain compounds in compost is consistent overall mass balances. The sludge and biosolids TCEP with a recent study evaluating an increase in short- samples collected were somewhat dewatered, TCPP TDCPP chain PFAS in municipally composted food and yard but the efficiency of dewatering in each WWTF WWTF 4 DEET waste (Choi et al., 2019) and another identifying an or biosolids handling facility was not used as a Caffeine increase in PFAA concentrations for commercially normalizing factor in reporting PFAS concentra- Cotinine available biosolids products undergoing thermal tions. Normalization could influence reported PFAS 0 20 40 60 80 100 treatment (Lazcano et al., 2019). and PPCP concentrations but would be unlikely to Average Percent Abundance by Weight

Figure 4. Average percent abundance by weight (mol/L for liquid and mol/kg for sludge) for A) 12 classes of Long Chain PPCPs along the treatment train and B) individual PPCPs measured in the sludge. A Short Chain B C ab Precursor/ No PSRP or VAR a Fluorotelomer pH (Higgins et al., 2005). Hydraulic retention time is only one or two facilities. Additionally, ciprofloxacin also expected to affect the measured distribution was frequently detected in sludge but was below ab constant, with longer exposure time enabling PFAS detection limits in secondary effluent, indicating Lime Stabilization a to approach equilibrium between the aqueous phase substantial partitioning to sludge, consistent with b and sludge solids; indeed, primary and secondary literature (log KD 2.6-7.3 [Fairbairn et al., 2015]). The Anaerobic Digestion a sludge has been shown to exhibit different PFAS high abundance of TCPP and TDCPP in sludge rela- distribution coefficients (Arvaniti et al., 2012). tive to secondary effluent is consistent with literature a Composting b Adsorption–desorption distribution coefficients log Kow values indicating their hydrophobicity; log KD MDEP Screeing Level for PFOS (5.2 ug/kg) were also calculated for PPCPs for the four New values were not identified in the literature. Hampshire WWTFs where sufficient data were available for the calculation. Only TCPP, TDCPP, and PFAS Composition is Influenced by Biosolids 0 50 100 150 200 0 100 200 300 400 500 600 0 20 40 100 120 DEET had quantifiable sludge and secondary effluent Stabilization Treatment PFAS Composition by Molar Mass (%) Σ? PFAS (ppb) PFOS Concentration (ug/kg) values for all four facilities, enabling calculation of Although we understand that more extensive Figure 6. A) Relative abundance of long-chain, short-chain, and precursor/fluorotelomer PFAS, B) average∑ PFAS, and C) PFOS log KD values (1.5–2.3, 0.5–2.4, and 0.5–3.0, respectively); sampling is underway, limited data exist in upper concentrations at each sampling location for different biosolid treatment, including processes to significantly reduce pathogens (PSRP) or vector attraction reduction (VAR) processes. the remaining analytes have log KD values based on New England states on the concentration and

alter the trends observed and their implications for Dodgen et al., 2013; Shenker et al., 2011). The frequent action. Such an investment would enable our region influencing the removal of contaminants and WWTFs. detection of antibiotics, their preferential distribu- to lead knowledge development on this timely topic, pathogens in water and wastewater treatment tion to sludge, and the potential impact to soil health as other states and nations grapple with emerging facilities and is a national expert in UV treatment IMPLICATIONS from antibiotic residuals (McClellan & Halden, constituents such as PFAS and PPCPs in their own technologies. PPCPs, including flame retardants, an anticon- 2010) warrants an expanded analysis of PPCPs in biosolids. • Paula Mouser, PhD, PE, is an associate professor vulsant, and antibiotics, were commonly detected wastewater effluent, sludge, and stabilized biosolids. in the Department of Civil and Environmental in wastewater effluent and sludge. PFAS were While compounds expected to be persistent, bioaccu- Acknowledgments Engineering at the University of New Hampshire consistently detected in wastewater effluent, sludge, mulative, and toxic are of particular concern, PPCPs The authors thank the wastewater professionals and the administrator of the university’s ABET- and biosolids. Short-chain PFAS were dominant not meeting this threshold are still important to who enabled this work through sample collection accredited Bachelor of Science Environmental in effluent, while longer-chain and precursor consider as synergistic toxicities have been observed and discussion. We also acknowledge the support Engineering program. Her research investigates PFAS sequestered in sludge. In 2019, the Maine even at low concentrations (Fent et al., 2006; Prichard and helpful insight by Anthony Drouin and Ray biological processes influencing the fate of Department of Environmental Protection (MDEP) & Granek, 2016). Gordon (NHDES), Eamon Twohig (VTDEC), and emerging contaminants, including PPCPs, PFAS, placed a moratorium on biosolids intended for Beneficial reuse of wastewater biosolids provides Steven LaRosa (Weston & Sampson) during the and pathogens, in engineered systems. land application unless samples contained less essential nutrients for agricultural lands globally and analysis and interpretation of these data. This than 2.5 μg of PFOA/kg, 5.2 μg of PFOS/kg, and is preferential to the environmentally costly alterna- research was enabled through funding from the References 1,900 μg of PFBS/kg (MDEP, 2019) to limit final soil tives of landfill disposal or incineration. However, New Hampshire Sea Grant program (PI Mouser, • (ITRC), I. T. a. R. C. PFAS Public Page and concentrations to 200 parts per trillion. PFOS were recycled nutrients should not compromise soil, co-PI Malley) and through funding from the Factsheet. https://www.itrcweb.org/Team/ the dominant PFAS detected in sludge samples water, and food quality for the applied area. While Collaborative Research Excellence Initiative at the Public?teamID=78. collected, with both PFOS and PFOA frequently managing every known PFAS and PPCP is unreal- University of New Hampshire. • Al-Farsi, R. S., Ahmed, M., Al-Busaidi, A., & Choudri, exceeding these screening levels in biosolids samples istic, quantifying a range of compounds in biosolids This article condenses an extensive data collection B. S. (2017). Translocation of pharmaceuticals and collected in New Hampshire and Vermont regardless and tracking how wastewater treatment and and scientific research project; supplemental infor- personal care products (PPCPs) into plant tissues: of biosolids stabilization approach. If screening biosolids stabilization approaches alter compound mation, including more comprehensive treatment of A review. Emerging Contaminants, 3, 132-137. levels are developed for a short list of PFAS, this degradation and distribution in final products are data and illustrative tables, is available free of charge • Angeles, L. F., Mullen, R. A., Huang, I. J., Wilson, C., may bias regulations of specific treatment regimes. important. To support safe biosolids use and avoid by contacting the corresponding author at Paula. Khunjar, W., Sirotkin, H. I., McElroy, A. E., & Aga, Among stabilized biosolids, composted products compromising human and environmental health, a [email protected]. D. S. (2020). Assessing pharmaceutical removal contained more short-chain PFAS, indicating that subset of PFAS and PPCP analytes representing a and reduction in toxicity provided by advanced compost treatment influences PFAS composition. range of environmental fates should be identified for ABOUT THE AUTHORS wastewater treatment systems †. Environmental Oxygen, temperature, organic matter content, and expanded effluent, sludge, and biosolids monitoring • Sydney Adams is a graduate student in the Science: Water Research and Technology, 6(1), bacterial diversity are likely key to controlling the before surface water and biosolids regulations are Department of Civil and Environmental 1-232. https://doi.org/10.1039/c9ew00559e. oxidation of undegraded PFAS precursors into promulgated. Engineering at the University of New Hampshire • Archer, E., Petrie, B., Kasprzyk-Hordern, B., & smaller/terminal products in these media. The use of Research on this pressing topic in our region working toward her Master of Science degree. She Wolfaardt, G. M. (2017). The fate of pharma- multiple stabilization processes may confound these has been constrained by a lack of federal and is interested in projects that address the fate of ceuticals and personal care products (PPCPs), results (e.g., anaerobic digestion and composting). state investment in the analytical tools, expertise, PFAS in wastewater systems. endocrine disrupting contaminants (EDCs), The diversity of physicochemical properties within and models for characterizing samples, loads, and • Cassidy Yates is a graduate student in the metabolites and illicit drugs in a WWTW and the broad PFAS classification and corresponding fate of these constituents. Municipalities and the Department of Civil and Environmental environmental waters. Chemosphere, 174, 437-446. environmental behaviors influencing their fate are private sector bear the financial burden for sample Engineering at the University of New Hampshire • Arvaniti, O. S., Asimakopoulos, A. G., Dasenaki, M. an ongoing challenge for regulators seeking to limit analysis—costs that will ultimately be passed to working toward her Master of Science degree. She E., Ventouri, E. I., Stasinakis, A. S., & Thomaidis, N. human and environmental health impacts due to the public. Although a handful of research labs at is researching the transformation and degrada- S. (2014). Simultaneous determination of eighteen exposure to these “forever” chemicals. academic institutions in upper New England states tion of PFAS in wastewater treatment through perfluorinated compounds in dissolved and Following land application of biosolids, uptake by can measure these constituents in wastewater advanced reduction processes. particulate phases of wastewater, and in sewage agricultural products for human or animal consump- media and biosolids, dedicated instrumentation • Carmela Antonellis a graduate student in sludge by liquid chromatography-tandem mass tion, and percolation or runoff into groundwater and is not broadly available across university or state the Department of Civil and Environmental spectrometry. Analytical Methods, 6(5), 1341-1349. surface waters serving as drinking water sources are analytical labs. Investment in analytical instrumen- Engineering at the University of New Hampshire https://doi.org/10.1039/C3AY42015A. important human and aquatic exposure pathways tation, personnel (e.g., environmental chemists and working toward her Master of Science degree. She • Arvaniti, O. S., Ventouri, E. I., Stasinakis, A. S., & for both PFAS and PPCPs. Considering the prefer- engineers), and research funding for both the public is investigating the behavior of PPCPs in waste- Thomaidis, N. S. (2012). Occurrence of different ential uptake of PFAS by vegetation (Costello & Lee, and private sector is needed for states to address this water systems, as well as their biotransformation classes of perfluorinated compounds in Greek 2020) and the increased leachability of short-chain issue. Such investment could significantly expand in secondary wastewater treatment. wastewater treatment plants and determination PFAS compared to their long-chain and precursor the following: 1) characterization of wastewater • Jenna Luek, PhD, is an adjunct research associate of their solid–water distribution coefficients. counterparts, consideration must be given to samples, including known and unknown congeners in the Department of Civil and Environmental Journal of Hazardous Materials, 239-240, 24-31. PFAS composition beyond the handful of analytes in these media; 2) lab- and field-based studies Engineering at the University of New Hampshire. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jhazmat.2012.02.015 currently regulated and the potential for their trans- evaluating factors influencing compound fate within She is interested in understanding the distribution (Occurrence and fate of emerging contaminants port from applied lands. facilities; 3) models predicting sources and sinks and fate of legacy and emerging environmental in municipal wastewater treatment systems). Similarly, PPCPs have been detected in biosolids- within facilities; and 4) leaching studies combined contaminants in natural and engineered systems. • Baran, W., Adamek, E., Ziemiańska, J., & Sobczak, amended agricultural soils (Ben Mordechay et al., with fate and transport models for lands receiving • James P Malley, Jr., PhD, is a professor in A. (2011). Effects of the presence of sulfonamides 2018; Wu et al., 2013), and numerous plants have been biosolids. This field is ripe for public–private– the Department of Civil and Environmental in the environment and their influence on human shown to uptake PPCPs while some accumulate in academic partnerships and sorely needs research Engineering at the University of New Hampshire. health. Journal of Hazardous Materials, 196, 1-15. plant tissues (Al-Farsi et al., 2017; Carter et al., 2014; to inform the scope of the problem and regulatory He studies the physical and chemical processes https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jhazmat.2011.08.082.

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marine organisms: from single-species studies to • Us Epa, O. W. (2016). Basic Information about an ecosystem-based approach. Environmental Biosolids [Other Policies and Guidance]. US EPA. Science and Pollution Research International, • Vestergren, R., Orata, F., Berger, U., & Cousins, I. 23(22), 22365-22384. https://doi.org/10.1007/ (2013). Bioaccumulation of perfluoroalkyl acids in s11356-016-7282-0. dairy cows in a naturally contaminated environ- • Schultz, M. M., Higgins, C. P., Huset, C. A., ment. Environmental science and pollution Luthy, R. G., Barofsky, D. F., & Field, J. A. (2006). research international, 20. https://doi.org/10.1007/ Fluorochemical Mass Flows in a Municipal s11356-013-1722-x. Wastewater Treatment Facility. Environmental • Walters, E., McClellan, K., & Halden, R. U. (2010). science & technology, 40(23), 7350-7357. Occurrence and loss over three years of 72 phar- • Sepulvado, J. G., Blaine, A. C., Hundal, L. S., maceuticals and personal care products from & Higgins, C. P. (2011). Occurrence and Fate biosolids-soil mixtures in outdoor mesocosms. of Perfluorochemicals in Soil Following the Water Research, 44, 6011-6020. Land Application of Municipal Biosolids. • Wu, X., Ernst, F., Conkle, J. L., & Gan, J. (2013). With offices throughout New England, AECOM’s Environmental Science & Technology, 45(19), Comparative uptake and translocation of expertise in water, wastewater, water resources, 8106-8112. https://doi.org/10.1021/es103903d. pharmaceutical and personal care products community infrastructure, design-build, program • Shenker, M., Harush, D., Ben-Ari, J., & Chefetz, B. (PPCPs) by common vegetables. Environment and construction management enables us to (2011). Uptake of carbamazepine by cucumber International, 60, 15-22. provide comprehensive solutions to manage, plants--a case study related to irrigation • Yan, H., Zhang, C.-J., Zhou, Q., Chen, L., & Meng, protect and conserve our water. with reclaimed wastewater. Chemosphere, X.-Z. (2012). Short- and long-chain perfluorinated 82(6), 905-910. https://doi.org/10.1016/j. acids in sewage sludge from Shanghai, China. chemosphere.2010.10.052. Chemosphere, 88(11), 1300-1305. https://doi. • Sinclair, E., & Kannan, K. (2006). Mass Loading and org/10.1016/j.chemosphere.2012.03.105. Fate of Perfluoroalkyl Surfactants in Wastewater • Yin, L., Wang, B., Yuan, H., Deng, S., Huang, J., Want, Treatment Plants. Environmental Science & Y., & Yu, G. (2017). Pay special attention to the www.aecom.com Technology, 40(5), 1408-1414. https://doi.org/10.1021/ transformation products of PPCPs in environ- es051798v. ment. Emerging Contaminants, 3(2), 69-75. https:// • Sun, H., Zhang, X., Wang, L., Zhang, T., Li, F., He, N., doi.org/10.1016/j.emcon.2017.04.001. & Alder, A. C. (2012). Perfluoroalkyl compounds • Yu, J., Hu, J., Tanaka, S., & Fujii, S. (2009). in municipal WWTPs in Tianjin, China-- Perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) and perfluo- concentrations, distribution and mass flow. rooctanoic acid (PFOA) in sewage treatment Environmental Science and Pollution Research plants. Water Research, 43(9), 2399-2408. https:// International; Heidelberg, 19(5), 1405-1415. https:// doi.org/10.1016/j.watres.2009.03.009. doi.org/http://dx.doi.org.unh.idm.oclc.org/10.1007/ • Zhou, Q., Deng, S., Zhang, Q., Fan, Q., Huang, s11356-011-0727-6. J., & Yu, G. (2010). Sorption of perfluorooctane • Tavasoli, E., Luek, J., Malley, J., & Mouser, P., sulfonate and perfluorooctanoate on activated (In Review). Distribution and Fate of Per- and sludge. Chemosphere, 81(4), 453-458. https://doi. Polyfluoronated Alkyl Substances (PFAS) in org/10.1016/j.chemosphere.2010.08.009. Wastewater Treatment Facilities. Environmental Science: Process and Impacts.

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| Impacts of PFAS on biosolids management costs |

drinking water supplies. PFAS have been manu- potential financial impacts on municipal wastewater factured and used in various industries around and biosolids agencies. This evaluation identified the world since the 1940s. Their prevalence in the facilities across the country that have been affected environment has raised concerns about adverse by PFAS and used the results from an online survey health impacts that have led to many ongoing by the North East Biosolids & Residuals Association toxicological studies. The PFAS family constitutes (NEBRA) to develop and implement an in-depth roughly 8,900 known chemical varieties that have evaluation of the affected facilities. The evaluation Impacts of PFAS on biosolids been in production and in the environment for team contacted the parties affected—such as water nearly eight decades. These chemicals have recently resource recovery facilities (WRRFs), residuals management costs been detected in elevated concentrations in ground- haulers, biosolids land appliers, and facilities water in certain parts of the country, especially dedicated to end use (incineration, compost, landfill, Eric Spargimino, PE, CDM Smith, Manchester, New Hampshire near airports and military bases where aqueous farms, etc.)—and requested information about the film-forming foams (AFFF) were used, as well as near cost and operational impacts from the growing Abstract | The presence of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in water resource recovery facilities industrial manufacturing sites. variety of state and federal PFAS policies and (WRRFs) has been widely reported. This article aims to inform about the cost impacts and unintended These synthetic chemical substances are regulations. consequences of PFAS regulations on biosolids programs. It expands the set of data and results from the engineered and used specifically for their strong An electronic survey was issued consisting of study funded by the Water Environment Federation (WEF), National Association of Clean Water Agencies carbon–fluorine bonds, which resist heat, water, and seven questions, which included yes or no, open- (NACWA), and the North East Biosolids & Residuals Association (NEBRA) to determine the cost impact of oil effectively. As such, PFAS are commonly found ended, and multiple-choice types. Responses were in everyday consumer products, including fast-food collected from 54 respondents and used to develop PFAS on biosolids. containers, non-stick cookware, stain-resistant the expanded survey, targeted at potentially The article also discusses biosolids end use costs for entities before and after the onset of PFAS regulations. coatings, water-resistant clothing, and personal care impacted facilities as potential participants. The End use costs increased on average approximately 72 percent, but in some cases this change was more products. Owing to their chemical structure, commer- team spoke with staff at 30 solids management facili- cial value, and use, PFAS are ubiquitous. They also ties or operations; the responses are presented both than 300 percent. The impact PFAS has had on those surveyed entities is also looked at, as is the cost and persist, bioaccumulate, and do not readily degrade. qualitatively and quantitatively below. Participants non-cost impact that regulations have had on utilities. The hope is to educate the public and regulators and In 2016, following a comprehensive toxicology were selected based on their anticipated—and, in encourage them to use the appropriate science when establishing regulations. Data from the completed study, EPA published perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) some cases, already experienced—impacts from study illustrate the importance of considering the risk to human health as well as the potential detriment to and perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) drinking PFAS and related policy and regulation. the environmental benefits offered by these biosolids programs. water health advisories at individual or combined For this study and the outreach with each entity, concentrations of these PFAS of 70 parts per trillion the metric used when discussing end-use cost was Keywords | Biosolids, residuals, PFAS, cost, end-use, disposal, economic impact, NEBRA, WEF, NACWA (ppt). In February 2019, EPA issued its PFAS Action dollar per wet ton, $/wt (dollar per wet metric ton, Plan. The plan aims to move forward with a regula- $/wMT). This was the most common unit among tory determination for PFOA and PFOS. Meanwhile, those interviewed and includes the entire product many states have implemented their own limits being handled (wastewater sludge or biosolids and and regulations, with many well below the EPA’s 70 the interstitial water). This is most relevant when ppt health advisory. Many of these limits prevent the travel or hauling costs are included, where a Introduction or provincial standards for use as fertilizers and biosolids beneficial use programs from continuing significant percentage of the overall end use expense Wastewater treatment facilities (WWTFs) perform soil amendments. They provide plant nutrients to land apply their biosolids, reversing the sustain- may be from travel to the end-use site. It is also a two primary functions: (1) they treat water to a level and organic matter to soils. They can also produce able and environmentally friendly actions of these consistent metric that allows all these entities to that allows its reintroduction to surface and/or renewable energy through digestion and produc- programs. Regulators must provide communi- be compared to one another. The responses were groundwater, and (2) they treat the solids produced tion of methane (biogas) or by drying and thermal ties with the tools to limit the release of these compiled, and the response pool evaluated for trends in this process to a level where they can be either processing. A 2004 national survey of biosolids use substances at their sources and to educate the public related to PFAS costs, concerns, and impacts. recycled or disposed of properly. Both are done to and disposal (NEBRA et al., 2007) found that about on the impact many consumer products have on the Results showed similar trends across participants ensure public safety and environmental protection. 55 percent of the wastewater solids (sewage sludge) environment. of all management methods and facility types. Traditionally, the suspended and dissolved solids produced in the United States are treated and The National Association of Clean Water Agencies Many of these outlets clearly have already seen in wastewater treatment have been called “sludge” recycled to soils as biosolids. About 30 percent are (NACWA) and the Water Environment Federation a significant cost impact from addressing PFAS. or “sewage sludge.” Most often, sludge is treated in landfilled and 15 percent are incinerated. Of the total (WEF) submitted comments to EPA in 2018 urging Managing these costs can be contentious in many either an aerobic or anaerobic digester (maintained beneficially used on soils, three-quarters is applied to it to develop a federal response that appropriately of these situations, with WRRFs concerned about for set intervals within given temperature ranges). agricultural land, 22 percent is distributed as Class A reflects the risks posed by PFAS, closes the unre- how they will pay for PFAS treatment. WRRFs This stabilizes the material and reduces pathogens products, and 3 percent is used in land reclamation. solved scientific gaps (including fate, transport, and are, by design, receivers of wastes that have been (disease-causing organisms). Many other treatment Northern New England (Maine, New Hampshire, toxicity of PFAS using a science-based approach), introduced into clean water. Further complicating options exist to render sludge suitable to meet and Vermont) is responsible for most of the biosolids and evaluates how best to target the sources of PFAS this argument, however, is whether it is reasonable federal and state requirements for beneficial use. beneficially reused in New England. and responsible disposal techniques. for WRRFs to receive and treat something “new,” When the sludge satisfies these requirements, it is such as PFAS, or whether that will be too costly and called “biosolids.” PFAS Evaluating PFAS Impacts in Biosolids that other ways—such as source control and/or Biosolids are the nutrient-rich, organic byproducts Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) An evaluation to determine the actual costs to pretreatment—are more rational and cost-effective. of wastewater treatment. Biosolids have been have recently become a topic of public concern, wastewater and biosolids management programs Facilities continue to face these questions as policies treated and tested and meet strict federal and state particularly when they are discovered in community from PFAS was initiated to better understand the and regulations are enforced.

140 service fees. The new proposed contract +69% allows competitive bidding, while Springfield 120 120 assesses the market and plans for the future, +3% +71% +6% +5% +104% +59% 100 eliminating the originally built-in risk fees 100 and allowing more long-term flexibility. 80 As a result, the proposed corresponding 80 management cost is anticipated to decrease. 60 60 Springfield is an example of a facility +128% 40 that was updating its solids management ($/wMT = $/wt + 10%) 40 contracts when PFAS regulations began 20 ($/wMT = $/wt + 10%) being implemented, and the city moved Cost $ / Wet Ton 20

Management Cost $ / Wet Ton 0 forward amid the uncertainty of what PFAS y y T Z A A A A V , MI Facilities with more , MI means for wastewater solids management.

, A 0 , NY , ME , ME , NH , NH , NH , M , M y d t acili t than one biosolids acili t NH VT ME MA NJ MI AZ CA e r e r

el l Overall, the impact to each facility varies om, MI sl e tia c v tion, o r

processing method one, M i x w apid s PVSC, NJ tlan d alem, M ou n o o n depending on the management used and geographic Before PFAS After PFAS are listed under W L P un c nd o on c o r PVWS D ying F ying F , S r r C P both management assland s location, among other contributing factors. However, Before PFAS Average After PFAS Average r x J lacks t esque I and R ima C G r designations Springﬁeld, MA r

Manches t Figure 1 presents clear evidence of major cost P P – , N. A Figure 2. Comparison of average biosolids handling AZ and CA are SES D G T Ess e

V impacts for biosolids management for the promulga- cost before and after PFAS concerns by state each based on A, MI, D A, MI, D one data point GLS D W W Upper B tion of PFAS policies and regulations. on, G L G L LAWPCA, ME Figure 2 presents the same data from Figure 1 with • Not making science- or knowledge-based Figure 1. Comparison Burlington, VT–Landfill, VT an emphasis on state-by-state impacts. Grouping decisions of biosolids handling urling t B facilities by state shows that some states’ PFAS • Lack of a universal EPA-approved testing method costs before and Beneficial Reuse Incineration Landfill after PFAS concerns responses have clearly caused significant impacts on for PFAS in wastewater and solids (The only by end-use method Before PFAS (2018 where applicable) After PFAS solids management costs, while others have caused available EPA-approved method as of January Before PFAS Average After PFAS Average marginal impacts. 2021 was for drinking water specifically.) Though sample sizes were small (as little as one • Very low regulatory limits for PFAS in water Quantitative Management Costs for upgrades. This created a lack of sludge capacity each in Arizona and California), Figure 2 provides a being adopted by some states not being While many of the questions and subsequent in the region and drove up sludge end-use costs. qualitative sense of the varying degrees of impact in achievable responses were more qualitative than quantitative, For example, a facility in Wixom, Michigan, is different states that agrees with how stakeholders • Limitations of available technology commonly most of the facilities provided some quantitative among the most heavily affected, showing an assess the impacts of PFAS actions. Notable conclu- used for PFAS removal in drinking water and the management costs before and after the emergence increase in management cost per wet ton to 6 times sions from Figure 2 include Michigan and Arizona incompatibility with wastewater matrices—for of PFAS concerns. The cost information allows what the facility paid prior to the PFAS concerns. being the most-impacted states, both with an example, no proven technology to treat PFAS in the impacts of PFAS regulations on the market This cost increase was from $20/wt ($22/wMT) in average of more than 2 times the management cost wastewater so far to be evaluated and aids as a forecast tool 2018 to $120/wt ($132/wMT) after PFAS regulations. after PFAS impacts. Other significantly impacted • Liability and those who receive PFAS being for anticipated future costs if regulations proceed This facility is on the upper end of the spectrum; a states include New Hampshire and Maine, which responsible for removing it as proposed. The management costs from survey few other facilities in states on the forefront of PFAS have seen 69 percent and 71 percent increases in respondents were converted, for consistency, into policy and regulation, such as Michigan, have seen management cost, respectively. PFAS Costs for Drinking Water terms of cost per wet ton of solids or biosolids management cost increases of 2 times or more. Treatment leaving the WRRF property (Figure 1). The facilities Alternatively, other facilities interviewed for this Qualitative Management Costs Commonly used treatment methods for removing are grouped based on their management method. study reported minimal to no impacts to manage- The potential consequences of regulating PFAS in PFAS in drinking water have been implemented, Based on the data provided, in response to PFAS ment costs. These facilities generally manage biosolids before fully understanding the impacts studied, and examined since PFAS became emerging regulations the management cost per facility their own biosolids, using methods other than to the market do not stop with cost implications contaminants of concern in the early 2000s. The surveyed increased by an average of around beneficial reuse and/or operating in states that alone. Additional concerns, as outlined by surveyed same cannot be said of treatment methods for 72 percent. When this study was published in do not yet have quantifiable PFAS regulations. In participants, include the following: wastewater or biosolid matrices containing PFAS, October 2020, the average increase was much lower. the case of Springfield, Massachusetts, the data • Lack of available capacity for the sheer volume for which many of the treatment technologies are Since then, costs at several of the surveyed facilities display a management cost decrease. The facility of biosolids and uncertainty about the longevity still emerging and being further investigated. have increased, driving up the average. The pertinent manages biosolids through a contract operator of current solids management outlets, with three Common PFAS treatment technologies for regulations varied from those directly affecting who must find an end-use location for the product, options only: (1) beneficial use (e.g., land applica- drinking water conditions include granular activated biosolids to others regulating groundwater and generally a landfill or incineration facility. The tion, composting, etc.); (2) landfill disposal; and carbon (GAC); membrane technologies, such as inadvertently affecting biosolids land application Springfield WWTF was approaching the end of (3) incineration. All have risks and benefits reverse osmosis (RO); and advanced oxidation programs. Some facilities have seen an increase of contract negotiations at the time of this study. As • Environmental impact of abating beneficial reuse processes (AOP). Emerging technologies to address greater than 72 percent. In the solids management such, Springfield’s new contract restructured the programs and turning to disposal or incineration PFAS contaminants in drinking water include market over the past couple of decades, no such 20-year-old biosolids section in response to market methods solely sorptive removal (MIEX, PAC, other sorbents such dramatic cost increases have occurred. The closest and regulatory changes. The previous contract and • Public perception and politics driving regulations as aerogel, silver-doped IX, organically modified comparison was in New England in 2016 when the management cost had included the contractor’s risk • Inability to manage PFAS in biosolids at the silica, fluorographene, and cyclodextrin polymer), sewage sludge incinerator (SSI) air regulations took and responsibility, preventing Springfield from fully source due to lack of public education and surfactant and coagulant removal, surfactant and effect, forcing incinerators to shut down temporarily understanding the cost per ton due to the built-in engagement coagulant-enhanced removal, PerfluorAd (a patented

Table 1. Construction costs for drinking water treatment of PFAS Potential Wastewater Treatment Associated Trends Cost Implications Final federal regulations have not been promulgated Project location Capacity Approx. cost Project-specific notes Cost per volume (mgd / ML/d) ($ millions) treated ($/gal / $/L) Water treatment technologies, such as AIX, GAC, and for PFAS in biosolids. State-specific regulations RO, are difficult to scale and relate to wastewater and guidelines that have been proposed or enacted Spectacle Pond 2 / 7.6 5.5 • GAC pressure vessels 2.75 / 0.72 treatment standards due to the high total organic include various concentration limits of different WTP Ayer, MA • New building for PFAS treatment carbon (TOC) content in wastewater effluent PFAS compounds in drinking water, groundwater, • Existing sand filters upstream of GAC compared to typical groundwater or surface water and, in a few cases, surface water. Only Maine has Grove Pond 2 / 7.6 3.1 • AIX pressure vessels 1.55 / 0.41 sources used for drinking water. Implementing any imposed a screening limit on three PFAS compounds WTP Ayer, MA • New building for PFAS treatment of these technologies thus may require additional in biosolids. Other states, such as Massachusetts, have • Existing sand filters upstream of GAC. treatment: coagulation, sand filters, membrane implemented monitoring requirements, while in some filters, etc. Otherwise, the PFAS treating technologies states with surface water limits, such as Michigan, Westfield, MA 4 / 15 5.6 • GAC pressure vessels 1.40 / 0.37 • New building for PFAS treatment may become prohibitively large. For example, the those limits have directly affected wastewater effluent. Brunswick County RO improvements shown in Table 1 Nonetheless, the very low regulatory standards for Middlesex, NJ 12 / 45 30 2.50 / 0.67 and totaling $120 million to treat 50 mgd (189 ML/d) drinking water that several states have adopted are results in a cost to treat of $2.40/gpd ($0.64/Lpd) significantly increasing the cost of wastewater and Confidential 2.5 / 9.5 5.4 (GAC) • PFAS treatment at individual groundwater well sites 2.16 / 0.57 Client in Mid- 4.9 (AIX) • Planning study to evaluate GAC vs. AIX at each well 1.96 / 0.52 (CAPEX), in addition to the facility’s normal operating biosolids management programs. Atlantic Region station costs and any operating expenses for those new In the absence of national regulatory standards, (Two groundwater 3.7 / 14 6.4 (GAC) • Some include new building requirements 1.73 / 0.46 facilities. A wastewater treatment facility’s cost per individual states are acting, and the future of PFAS well sites) 6.1 (AIX) 1.65 / 0.44 volume treated may be 2 or 3 times that due to the standards is unclear and varied. WRRFs and biosolids wastewater matrix, increased TOC concentration, and management programs are being forced to consider Brunswick, NC 50 / 189 120 • Reverse osmosis for PFAS and other contaminant 2.40 / 0.64 removal other wastewater effluent components that would be current and/or anticipated state PFAS regulations, • Includes in-plant improvements and expansion for PFAS removed upstream of the RO membranes before PFAS explaining why some states have already seen rising • Existing upstream sand filters are removed to the ppt level. costs. The unintended consequences of proactively As an example, the Lewiston-Auburn Water addressing PFAS with water quality standards include Average treatment cost 2.00 / 0.53 Pollution Control Authority (LAWPCA) facility has an these increases in wastewater solids management average daily design capacity of 14.2 mgd (54 ML/d). costs. As states continue to set regulatory limits for Table 2. O&M estimates for drinking water treatment of PFAS cost per gallon to treat drinking water for PFAS is If LAWPCA were to implement RO treatment at an PFAS, the wastewater and biosolids management $2.00/gal ($0.53/L), inclusive of only the capital costs assumed cost of $2.00/gpd ($0.53/Lpd), the resulting markets will continue to assess the risks and liabilities Project location Capacity GAC O&M AIX O&M of the infrastructure and not general operation capital cost would be $57 million to $85 million to treat around their programs. Regulating PFAS at stringent (mgd / ML/d) estimate estimate and maintenance. Many of these projects include the plant’s liquid side to meet drinking water stan- levels—even within waters—has consequences. Doing Confidential Client in 2.5 / 9.5 $113,200 $80,100 project-specific requests and considerations in the dards for PFAS. The debt service on this capital expen- so will continue to disrupt markets if WRRFs and Mid-Atlantic Region cost. These considerations could include additional diture would be $2.9 million to $4.3 million per year other receivers of PFAS are not provided additional (Two groundwater well sites) 3.7 / 14 $282,800 $211,800 chemical systems, permitting, new building require- at 3 percent over a 30-year term, doubling LAWPCA’s management, compliance, or treatment options and ments, and other items essential for implementation 2019/2020 annual operating budget of $3.4 million. funding for transitioning to managing PFAS. ionic flocculant process), and foam fractionation. of PFAS treatment. This does not include operating costs for the new These treatment technologies could be amendable The cost per gallon of treatment presented and facilities or any increase in sludge disposal costs or About the Author to wastewater conditions but would likely require the O&M costs estimated, while representative of brine treatment and disposal costs. LAWPCA’s sludge Eric Spargimino, PE, PMP, LEED AP, is an environ- additional study to determine the pre-treatment various PFAS treatment technologies for drinking disposal costs have already increased 153 percent from mental engineer and project manager with level required: coagulation, sand filters, membrane water, would rise sharply if applied to wastewater 2017/2018 (pre-PFAS) to their 2019/2020 budget (post- CDM Smith out of its Manchester, New Hampshire filters, etc. Otherwise, the PFAS-treating technolo- or biosolids matrices. As mentioned, the factor by PFAS). As a result, its community fees would have to office. He completed his bachelor’s and master’s degrees gies may become prohibitively large. which the cost would increase is not quantifiable; increase accordingly, in turn increasing homeowner in environmental engineering at Manhattan College While the anticipated costs for PFAS treatment the site-specific water matrix and other project sewer bills to between 2 and 3 times the current fees. and has been with CDM Smith his entire career. Mr. in wastewater and biosolids matrices are difficult to requirements would need to be evaluated but the Agencies participating in this study reported annual Spargimino’s technical specialty is sludge handling and scale from drinking water, general cost tendencies cost could be orders of magnitude larger in some sludge end-use costs of 8 to 17 percent of total annual management design and planning. He works for clients can be developed. From these trends, a scalable value cases. Important to remember is that additional operating budget. For entities in states where PFAS throughout the United States on complex sludge and cannot be adequately developed as the relationship treatment requirements and other considerations were regulated below the EPA health advisory level of biosolids handling design and management projects. between wastewater and drinking water treatment can greatly influence the cost to apply these PFAS 70 ppt, facilities that rely on off-site sludge outlets saw for PFAS is not linear. However, drinking water costs treatment methods to wastewater or biosolids. sludge end-use cost jump by 80 to 350 percent. The References of PFAS removal provide insight into which waste- For example, without pre-treatment, GAC and AIX PFAS that partition to the solids phase and remain North East Biosolids and Residuals Association. water and biosolids treatment could be anticipated. would be challenging to implement and likely not in the sludge would still require disposal alternatives, A National Biosolids Regulation, Quality, Table 1 presents data on completed design proj- cost-advantageous. or if practical, one of the treatment technologies End Use, and Disposal Survey – Final Report, ects, from planning-phase facilities to those fully The costs in Tables 1 and 2 provide a reference discussed herein. July 20, 2007: https://static1.squarespace.com/ constructed and operational. These projects cover point for the cost of treating PFAS in drinking water static/54806478e4b0dc44e1698e88/t/5488541fe4b03c0a9b various capacities, from 2 to 50 mgd (7.6 to 189 ML/d), but should not be interpreted or applied to any other 8ee09b/1418220575693/NtlBiosolidsReport-20July07.pdf. and include PFAS treatment technologies such as matrices. GAC, anion exchange (AIX), and RO. The average

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| Thermal drying |

Reduced volume, moisture, content, and odors make dried product more DEWATERING LANDFILL amenable to landﬁlling DEWATERED SOLIDS Thermal drying for cost and risk control Opens up non-agricultural and JOHN ROSS, Brown and Caldwell, Andover, Massachusetts blending outlets NATALIE SIERRA, Brown and Caldwell, Andover, Massachusetts DRYING CLASS A PRODUCT SOIL AMENDMENT Abstract | Articles from this issue and past ones of the Journal point toward the continuing decline in availability and reliability of disposal or beneficial reuse markets for wastewater solids in the region. Can be used as alternative fuel for osite Increased pressure from shrinking or limited incinerator and landfill capacity was previously documented Figure 1. Diversity in disposal and beneficial industry or incorporated into future use outlets achieved with thermal drying non-incineration destruction process by North East Biosolids and Residuals Association Special Projects Director Ned Beecher in 2016. The BIOFUEL predictions that disposal costs would continue to increase have become a reality for many municipalities. Biosolids market constrictions are now compounded by increased regulatory uncertainty and public be demonstrated at scale with wastewater solids, while hot gases are passed through the product to and peer-reviewed PFAS fate studies are still in facilitate evaporation. Paddle dryers use metal discs attention regarding the presence of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in solids, although the early stages. However, these technologies (i.e., or paddles to advance product, while transferring ubiquitous presence of PFAS throughout the natural and built environment has been well established at pyrolysis, gasification, or torrefaction) require an heat to the product through the surface of the levels comparable to typical wastewater solids (Brusseau, Anderson, & Guo, 2020; Kim Lazcano et al., 2019). upfront drying step; and thermal dryer facilities paddles and dryer vessel casing via thermal oil or Municipalities face increasingly difficult questions around how to address these solids management issues can be installed now with a footprint set aside steam. Table 1 (next page) provides an overview considering cost and risk to ratepayers, as well as the carbon footprint and resource recovery implications of to incorporate thermal destruction in the future. of the primary characteristics of the main dryer these decisions. Options also exist for offsite use of dried product types and their operational characteristics. Photos 1 as an alternative fuel in combustion-based indus- through 4 (page 41) show recent installations. trial processes, such as cement and lime kilns and As noted in Table 1, drum dryers historically have a Keywords | Thermal drying, solids management, feasibility studies, plant operations energy generation facilities. higher loading requirement for continuous operation, Figure 1 summarizes these potential benefits, which can be attributed to their higher operating which together can support each other in controlling temperatures. However, recent market entrants to both short- and long-term risks. They also provide the United States now offer drum dryers at smaller a buffer from market forces projected to continue sizes. The drum drying process produces the most Benefits of thermal drying providing future security if municipalities are regardless of the outcome or severity of potential uniform, dense pellet and is typically employed at Thermal drying is one strategy gaining attention required to landfill their solids. PFAS regulatory action. larger, urban facilities (for example, the Massachusetts throughout the region to provide cost and risk • Diversity in beneficial use opportunities. While thermal drying can provide various Water Resources Authority). Belt and paddle dryers control from recent trends in the solids management Perhaps the most promising aspect of thermal programmatic benefits, it requires a large invest- can be supplied in smaller sizes, are operationally market. Thermal dryers apply heat to dewatered drying is its ability to access a variety of beneficial ment in capital and annual operating expenses and less complex, and are more commonly employed at solids to remove most of the water content and use outlets. While there is regulatory uncertainty adds mechanical complexity to a municipality’s small-to-medium-sized municipalities. A primary produce a value-added product. Compared to around the future of beneficial use in the region, solids handling facility. These life-cycle costs are advantage of the paddle dryer is its small footprint, dewatering solids, thermal drying can reduce the biosolids land application still occurs in Maine critical to consider for a dryer project’s economic allowing it to fit into existing spaces. Conversely, a belt total mass of solids by 4 to 5 times and generate a where screening standards are being imple- feasibility and, when not properly measured dryer requires a greater footprint but can operate at product meeting EPA Class A pathogen-reduction mented, including dried product from out of state alongside site-specific considerations, can lead to temperatures below the minimum ignition tempera- requirements for beneficial reuse. Thermal drying (Hopkins, 2021). Thermally dried product, when lasting operational issues. The technologies used ture of standard wastewater solids dust (329°F [165°C] as a means of mass reduction and stabilization is meeting low-pollutant and Class A pathogen- for wastewater solids drying, their application, and per NFPA 654, 2020), which poses the greatest safety a demonstrated technology in the United States reduction requirements, can achieve EPA key considerations for successful deployment are risk within the dryer vessel itself. This also allows with nearly 60 operational facilities identified in Exceptional Quality (EQ) designation, which EPA discussed below. A case study from a recent thermal belt dryers to use waste heat from various sources a 2016 survey (WEF, 2017). Concerning the current defines as being “virtually unregulated” regarding dryer feasibility study in the Northeast illustrates including combined heat and power systems. Each Northeast market, thermal drying offers the distribution (1994). This produces dried EQ product how these elements come together to identify technology has operated successfully in the United following benefits: suitable as a soil amendment in various non- project viability and develop a path forward for States, with several commercial offerings available. • Mass reduction. Less mass means less hauling agricultural applications, broadening the scope implementing a dryer project. and reduced tipping fees. Landfills are also of beneficial reuse opportunities to buffer future Key implementation considerations under growing pressure to reduce wet waste application rate restrictions or market limitations. Types of thermal dryers A thermal dryer’s ability to provide long-term, reli- received given recent slope failures throughout • Staged thermal destruction adoption. Interest is Three primary types of thermal dryers are used for able operation is predicated on both appropriate the country (WW TCC, 2019) and the potential growing in non-incineration, thermal-destruction wastewater solids applications in the United States: technology selection and careful consideration for odor generation during transit and receiving. technologies for further mass reduction and belt, paddle, and rotary drum. Belt and rotary drum of site-specific factors. Recent history of thermal Moisture reduction and stabilization from potential per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances technologies advance product through the dryer dryers in the United States makes it clear that if thermal drying can address both these issues, (PFAS) control. These technologies have yet to vessel using a rotating belt or drum, respectively, these factors are not accounted for, dryers can cause

Table 1. High-level dryer-type comparison

Belt Paddle Drum

Heating medium Water (185–284°F / 85–140°C), Thermal oil Flue gas thermal oil (430°F / 221 °C), or (385°F / 196°C) or (650–1,100°F / 343–593°C) flue gas (250–330°F / 121–166°C) steam (<290 psi / 2,000 kPa)

Material conveyance Metal or plastic belt Rotating (heated) discs or Rotating drum paddles

Typical thermal efficiency 1,100–1,600 BTU/lb-H2O evap. 1,400–1,500 BTU/lb-H2O evap. 1,400–1,500 BTU/lb-H2O evap. (2,580–3,750 kJ/kg- H2O evap.) (3,280–3,520 kJ/kg- H2O evap.) (3,280–3,520 kJ/kg- H2O evap.)

Typical minimum machine 1,000 lb-H2O/hr / 450 kg-H2O/hr 700 lb-H2O/hr / 4,000 lb-H2O/hr / 1,800 kg-H2O/hr capacity at 24/7 cycle, (4 dry tons per day or dtpd / 315 kg-H2O/hr (15 dtpd / 13.6 MT per day) 24%TS feed 3.6 MT per day) (3 dtpd / 2.7 MT per day) 1 2 Typical product Cylindrical granule Irregular, dusty granule Dense pellet (0.04–0.3 in. / 1–8 mm) (0–0.6 in. / 0–15 mm) (0.08–0.16 in. / 2–4 mm)

Comparative assessment

Footprint requirements High Lower Moderate (lower at large facilities)

Energy recovery flexibility High Moderate Moderate

Safety concerns Lower Moderate High

significant operational problems or failures. Three knowledge in local and national professional orga- municipalities in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic nizations and have contributed to adopting thermal region recently conducted studies assessing whether drying at more recent installations. The following potential improvements or upgrades could allow case study demonstrates how the inclusion of these them to regain effective use of their operationally lessons learned into early stages of project planning challenging or disused thermal dryers. Consistent builds consensus and aids in the development and 3 4 themes emerge from each assessment and point to advancement of a thermal dryer project. 1. Belt dryer installed at the Western Wake Regional Water Reclamation Facility in New Hill, NC 2. Drum dryer installed at the three considerations when defining a thermal-drying Massachusetts Water Resources Authority Residuals Pellet Plant in Quincy, MA 3. Paddle dryer installed at the Derry Township Municipal Authority Clearwater Road Wastewater Treatment Facility in Hershey, PA 4. Belt dryer installed at the Chalfont-New project: Case Study: City of Auburn, New York Britain Township Joint Sewage Authority’s Advanced Wastewater Treatment Facility in Doylestown, PA • Upstream solids handling. Successful thermal The City of Auburn owns and operates a 12 mgd dryer operation requires a steady, consistent (45 mL/d) average flow wastewater treatment plant operators developed resourceful strategies to address to compare installation of a thermal dryer in the supply of solids. Facilities without sufficient (WWTP) in central New York. The City operated an variability in solids loading, such as changing process solids handling building to a newly constructed wide spots or operational flexibility at upstream onsite incinerator for solids disposal up to 2009 when conditions and the characteristics of influent from dewatering and drying facility as well as installation solids handling processes can become limited in it was abandoned due to operational issues and a combined sewer system, dry solids content off the with upstream anaerobic digesters and a post-drying providing load leveling to the dryer. impending permit restrictions. It has since disposed belt filter press could still vary substantially from pyrolysis step. Figures 2 and 3 (next page) show • Solids characteristics. High levels of debris and of dewatered solids from its conventional primary day to day. To address the variability inherent in conceptual sketches for dryer installation in the fiber, grit and abrasive material, high volatile and secondary treatment processes at a City-owned the existing system, alternatives were developed to existing and proposed new building. Figure 4 (page 43) content solids or imported wastes, and corrosive landfill; however, the landfill recently reached de-bottleneck the solids handling operations. These presents the NPV of each alternative’s 30-year life- chemical constituents each have a unique effect capacity and was shut down. Like many other facili- included separate WAS mechanical thickening, cycle cost, considering dryer installation along with on dryer operations and can reduce the dryer’s ties in the Northeast, Auburn received solids hauling elutriation water and added coagulant to primary related solids handling upgrade and state-of-good- useful life if not appropriately handled. and disposal cost proposals 50 percent to 150 percent sludge gravity thickening, and refurbishment of repair projects. • Technology readiness. Each time a new thermal- higher than what they had previously paid and, as a the intermediate holding tanks. A cost-benefit Figure 4 shows that with current solids manage- drying concept or technology is introduced, result, initiated a thermal dryer feasibility study in analysis compared screening upgrades at the ment trends each dryer alternative offers major life several iterations are required to achieve long- the summer of 2019. headworks to installation of an inline sludge screen cycle savings compared to the status quo scenario. term operational success. Understanding and Early in the study, the project team identified to address debris and fiber observed in the solids. Costs to rehabilitate a building to current dryer planning for this cycle can support early adopters process bottlenecks within the solids handling The inline sludge screen met the project needs at a safety design codes and standards were similar to of new dryer technologies. system that would affect the technical feasibility much-reduced cost and was included in the project construction of a new solids handling building. Also, While these considerations represent historical of a thermal dryer project. Primary sludge and definition. the added capital outlay for anaerobic digesters was challenges, they also provide an opportunity to waste active sludge (WAS) are combined in a gravity Four dryer alternatives considering the solids nearly offset by the cost reduction they provide from incorporate knowledge sharing and lessons learned thickener, from which solids are fed directly to a handling train were then developed for comparison upstream solids reduction and reduced dryer facility throughout the industry. Municipalities operating dewatering belt filter press and pumped via an old on a net present value (NPV) basis to status quo size, in addition to their providing a source of fuel for thermal dryers throughout the United States share incinerator feed cake pump to loadout. While plant solids disposal. The alternatives were developed the dryer. As City staff became more familiar with

BELT FILTER 50 PRESS 1 O&M Labor SLUDGE BLEND DRYER TANK Chemical Costs DEWATERING AND DIGESTER 2 DRYER BUILDING Natural Gas THICKENED

BFP 2 BFP SLUDGE HOLDING 40 TANK 1 Electricity

BFP 2 DIGESTER CONTROL Solids Disposition BUILDING BFP 2 alue—Millions $)

V Capital BFP 2

DIGESTER 1 30

REC #1 REC 9'-6 1/8" 6'-8 1/8" 6'-8

THICKENED BELT FILTER SLUDGE HOLDING PRESS 2 TANK 2 SLUDGE BUNKER 20 PRODUCT STORAGE HANGAR GRAVITY SLUDGE SCREEN THICKENER

Figures 2 and 3. Conceptual sketches for dryer installation in the existing and proposed new building for 12 mgd (45 mL/d) average flow wastewater treatment plant, City of Auburn, New York 10 ear Life-cycle Costs (Net Present the drying process and historical installations, use produce a Class A biosolids product with potential

of anaerobic digestion to provide a backup stabiliza- to diversify disposal and beneficial reuse outlets. If 30- Y tion method and improve the quality and consis- beneficial reuse is a goal, understanding your local tency of solids to the drying process was critical. solids market and planning accordingly for market Opportunities identified for dried product beneficial demand and potential shifts, as well as keeping 0 reuse and disposal meant that the pyrolysis system up with PFAS regulatory action, are even more Status Quo Retrofit New Building Dig + Pyrolysis + did not provide a cost advantage. However, the important. When considering thermal drying at Figure 4. Thirty-year net present value life-cycle cost comparison New Building New Building project advanced with a pre-defined location for your facility, incorporating lessons learned from past its potential installation if market conditions later dryer installations and site-specific factors will help • Natalie Sierra supervises BC’s national biosolids • Kim Lazcano, R., de Perre, C., Mashtare, M. allow. accurately assess its technical and financial feasi- and energy practice and is also out of the L., & Lee, L. S. (2019). Per- and polyfluoroalkyl Following the feasibility study, the City has bility and develop a project concept that will deliver Andover office. Ms. Sierra’s specialties include substances in commercially available biosolid- completed a more-detailed technology assessment long-term, successful operation. biosolids master planning, biosolids regulations, based products: The effect of treatment phase with support from the New York State and end use. She has been engaged on PFAS processes. Water Environment Research, 91(12), pp. Energy Research and Development Authority. This ACKNOWLEDGMENTS regulatory developments and public outreach 1669–1677. https://doi.org/10.1002/wer.1174. study further familiarized plant staff with equip- The authors thank City of Auburn staff for their with both North East Biosolids & Residuals • National Fire Protection Agency 654. Standard for ment operation, assessed opportunities for energy contributions to this article and successful project Association (NEBRA) and NEWEA and supports the Prevention of Fire and Dust Explosions from recovery with digestion with modern dryer technolo- outcomes. We also thank all those in the Northeast municipal biosolids programs nationwide in their the Manufacturing, Processing, and Handling of gies, and identified opportunities for cost and energy biosolids community who provided information for response to PFAS challenges. Combustible Particulate Solids, 2020 Edition. In savings through innovative approaches to anaerobic this article. These groups include facilities operating NFPA National Fire Codes Online. Retrieved from digestion tank construction and heating. The project thermal dryers, state regulators, and technology REFERENCES http://codesonline.nfpa.org. team plans to issue competitive bidding documents vendors. • Beecher, N. (2016). You have to take my sludge! • United States Environmental Protection to dryer manufacturers for pre-purchase of the dryer Incinerator shutdowns test the capacity of solids Agency. A Plain English Guide to the EPA Part system this spring. Bidding documents will be based ABOUT THE AUTHORS management. NEWEA Journal, 50:3, pp. 50-59. Fall 503 Biosolids Rule. EPA 832-R-93-003. Office of on a best-value bid comparison considering life-cycle • John Ross is a biosolids-focused engineer in Brown • Brusseau, M. L., Anderson, R. H., & Guo, B. (2020). Wastewater Management, USEPA. Washington, costs, service and spare parts availability, and desired and Caldwell’s (BC’s) Andover, Massachusetts PFAS concentrations in soils: Background levels DC. Web. September 1994. features to incorporate lessons learned from past office. Mr. Ross gained experience with dryer versus contaminated sites. Science of the Total • WEF (2017). Dryer Survey Fact Sheet. WSEC-2017- dryer installations. Detailed design is scheduled to operations early in his career working onsite at Environment, 740, 140017. https://doi.org/10.1016/j. FS-004-Residuals and Biosolids Committee. be completed later this year to coincide with dryer the Milorganite Facility in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, scitotenv.2020.140017. • WW TCC (2019). Wastewater Subcommittee delivery and fast-track installation. and has since worked closely with BC’s subject • Hopkins, C. (2021). Maine Department of Meeting Summary. Metropolitan North Georgia matter experts on dryer projects across the Environmental Protection. Augusta, ME. Personal Water Planning District. Marietta, GA. January 2019. CONCLUSIONS country. He also conducted research on the communication regarding current implementa- Recent regional solids management trends can fate of micropollutants in biosolids pyrolysis tion of Chapter 418 rule, Beneficial Use of Solid make thermal drying favorable for both cost and and will support an upcoming Water Research Wastes. Telephone: January 11, 2021. risk control. Thermal drying can reduce solids Foundation full-scale PFAS fate study in sewage mass by 4 to 5 times that of dewatered solids and sludge incinerators.

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feature

| Adaptive biosolids master planning |

Sustainability

Social Performance Economic Performance Environmental Performance Technical Performance

Adaptive biosolids master planning to Public Health/ Surface Water Affordability Knowledge Base manage PFAS in biosolids Quality of Life Quality and Quantity Groundwater Quality Values and Beliefs Ability to Finance Site Impacts and Quantity Todd o. Williams, PE, BCEE, Jacobs, Detroit, Michigan Abstract | Biosolids master plans have historically focused on wastewater service area growth and Cultural Resources Ability to Maintain Aquatic Ecosystems Implementation upgrades to aging biosolids infrastructure. Master planning can no longer present technical solutions that only address capacity projections. Adaptive plans must allow for process enhancements that address Public Involvement Ability to Sustain Land Ecosystems changing rules and regulations, especially related to compounds of emerging concern such as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). Markets for resulting biosolids products must also be evaluated. New Economic Aesthetics Soil Quality master planning methods are needed to ensure viable, long-term end-product markets. Development

This article helps utility planners, operators, and engineers understand PFAS planning challenges, the Community Air Quality changing regulatory landscape, and technologies being used or developed to eliminate PFAS from biosolids. Development Technical solutions to be discussed include globally implemented full-scale thermal processing applications Figure 1. such as thermal drying followed by pyrolysis or gasification. Pilot-scale technologies discussed include Example of value criteria for decision-making Energy Use hydrothermal liquefaction, which could turn residual solids into marketable oil products. water supplies from these compounds. For example, which incorporates client values, goals, and overall Keywords | Biosolids, master planning, PFAS, compounds of emerging concern, thermal drying, Maine has promulgated concentration limits for the objectives to arrive at a preferred solution. hydrothermal liquefaction beneficial use of products destined for land applica- Figure 1 shows program sustainability criteria that tion (including biosolids) that are highly restrictive should be considered for biosolids planning options. for biosolids (Maine DEP, Maine Solid Waste The criteria shown define each consideration that Management Rules: Beneficial Use of Solid Wastes, must be identified so that specific, quantifiable 06-096 C.M.R. ch. 418, Appendix A, last amended definitions are developed. The results can be July 8, 2018). The potential for regulatory changes to displayed as a value hierarchy. This figure illustrates emerge after a biosolids master plan is completed a sustainable development value hierarchy along and new facilities and processes are procured and with definitions for supporting criteria. Taken Introduction Because of the ubiquitous use of PFAS in our built is of great concern to engineers, administrators, together they define sustainability. In developing Biosolids master planning has been practiced for modern society, these compounds are present in and operators of wastewater utilities. For these utility-specific criteria, each criterion must be decades to help wastewater utilities make informed most if not all forms of biosolids produced for reasons, emerging technologies that can be used to measurable and should be independent. If they are decisions about solids management practices and land application. Various PFAS compounds are eliminate PFAS from biosolids are being developed to not independent, the interdependent criteria will the costs to build and operate needed facilities. Since measurable in biosolids at single digits in parts per meet the potential future needs of utilities. receive a higher consideration and value-weighting solids management operations typically amount to billion (ppb) on a dry weight basis. EPA has not than intended. Values drive decision-making when 50 percent or more of a wastewater facility’s oper- determined the appropriate concentration of PFAS Biosolids Master Planning different concerns (such as environmental versus ating costs, careful planning is required to ensure compounds suitable for land application of biosolids. Biosolids master planning projects aim at developing economic versus social) are considered. cost-effective solutions are chosen that provide long- Determining the risk and potential regulation a road map for the future—with and sometimes Relative values of individuals or stakeholders term solids processing capabilities. Review of regula- (development of numeric limits) of these compounds without the capital funding needed for new facilities, can be surveyed, quantified, and transformed into tory requirements is needed so that chosen solutions in biosolids, however, is the top priority of EPA’s but always with a sense of urgency given that solids relative weights for the individual criteria within are permittable and produce end products that biosolids group under the Health and Ecological processing operations can be half the operating the value hierarchy. This set of weights can be used comply with regulations. In recent years, a shift has Criteria Division, Office of Science and Technology budget of a treatment works. Engineering consul- to evaluate alternatives based on individual or occurred; this shift requires utilities not only to plan of the Office of Water. Any EPA standard is likely two tants have developed biosolids master planning tools stakeholder group values. Different sets of weights, for meeting capacity needs but to consider more to three years away from being promulgated. In the to help utilities navigate the evaluation and selection representing the relative importance of various indi- carefully how, through various methods, to best use absence of EPA rules, many states are developing process to develop robust, sustainable plans. By viduals or stakeholders, can be used subsequently to the energy content locked up in solids. Coupled with interim guidelines or advisory levels of PFAS in following a defensible process, the preferred long- assess preferences for the identified alternatives. that is the need to address public concern regarding biosolids for land application. Regulatory agencies term biosolids management strategy can be identi- The next step is usually to develop measures— the presence of emerging contaminants such as per- across the United States, including in New England, fied and an implementation plan developed. Robust called utility scales—for the individual criteria and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in biosolids are focused on understanding this issue and biosolids master planning should be based on the within the value hierarchy. These scales can initially products. instituting regulations to protect public and private multi-attribute utility analysis (MUA) approach, be semi-quantitative. Generally, a 1 to 10 scale is used

issues” could apply to many social performance Planners must also consider how to phase Table 1. Utility scales for developing weighting for 0-Status Quo various non-monetary criteria criteria. Alternatives are then developed and portions of a recommended plan so that 85% evaluated relative to the utility scales. The utility capital costs can be staggered over time Utility scales Utility score 1–10 scales can also help to establish minimum levels for and triggers can be identified where steps each criterion, providing the basis for a “fatal flaw” in a process can be added. In this example 1a-Expanded Status Quo 91% Cannot Meet Current or Future 0 analysis. A composite score is calculated for each by project, drying has been recommended Meets Current Not Future 4 multiplying the utility score for each criterion by initially to provide needed capacity over the the value-based weighting and summing the result planning period, but carbonization or pyrol- 3a-Expanded Status Quo+Pyrolysis 100% Meets Current/Modified for Future 7 to obtain a total score that represents the relative ysis would be added if regulatory limits sustainability for each alternative. on PFAS in biosolids emerge or energy Meets Current and Future 9 4-Status Quo+MAD+Biogas 64% The next step is usually to apply weighted criteria optimization requirements or other drivers Exceeds Current and Future 10 to the management alternatives. Output from a change. Below are examples of emerging recent biosolids management planning study is technologies that show promise to address 7-Status Quo+THP+MAD+Biogas 78% for each, with the rating associated with a quantita- shown in Figure 2. PFAS in biosolids should changing regula- tive or semi-quantitative measure. Developing the Finally, cost comparisons can be developed using tions require it. quantitative measures is an objective technical capital, operating, and life-cycle analyses of each 4-Status Quo+MAD+RNG 64% activity, while associating that measure with a utility potential option. The relative costs can then be Emerging technologies for scale (score) requires subjective input from the applied to non-monetary rankings in a combined eliminating PFAS in Biosolids stakeholders. Beginning this exercise as a general cost–benefit scoring step. Carrying the example Incineration at high enough temperatures 7-Status Quo+THP+MAD+RNG 83% overview to capture the concept is often helpful, from Figure 2 to the next level, a cost–benefit (>2,192ºF [>1,200ºC]) with sufficient resi- and then more quantitative rigor can be added as score using equal weighting for life-cycle cost to dence time is believed to destroy PFAS 0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100% the decision process proceeds. Table 1 shows general non-monetary criteria is shown in Figure 3. The compounds. However, more testing and Normalized Cost-Benefit Score utility scales to illustrate both the starting point and highest-scored option can be scored 100 percent and research are being conducted to better Figure 3. Cost–benefit scores for biosolids management alternatives using what is meant by a utility scale. For example, the the other options normalized against that option understand the fate of these compounds life-cycle cost and non-monetary criteria (higher is better) utility scale referred to as “standards” could apply to to demonstrate how closely or how separated through incineration. Recent work is most of the environmental performance and public varying options result. This process provides a considering alternatives to incineration that show fraction. In addition, the transformation or elimina- health criteria; “institutional needs” could apply to defensible summary of options considered and potential to also eliminate these compounds from tion of PFAS compounds by measuring concentra- many economic performance criteria; “community ultimately chosen. biosolids under other conditions. High-temperature tions in the resultant bio-oil and pyrogas produced (typically 932ºF to 1,652ºF [500ºC to 900ºC]) conversion was evaluated. This is one of the first analyses

Potential Public Impacts of biosolids using carbonization (pyrolysis or gasifi- using dried biosolids that captured PFAS data from 80 Sustainability/Long-term Viability cation) can be achieved using dried (greater than 80 all the carbonization output matrices, including Alignment with City's EAP to 90 percent total solids) biosolids as a feedstock to the resultant char, bio-oil, and pyrogas fractions. Operational Complexity and Serviceability produce an energy-laden pyrogas and a charcoal-like Bench-scale testing in a continuously fed pyrolysis 70 Compatibility with Existing Systems material referred to as char in a non-combustion unit compared the measurable PFAS removal process without oxygen. Carbonization converts or performance at 932ºF and 1,292ºF (500ºC and 700ºC) cracks biomass or biosolids at high temperatures pyrolysis temperatures. 60 in the absence of oxygen. As most organics are Dried biosolids tested in the bench-scale test were thermally unstable, they can be split in a carboniza- derived from unstable waste activated sludge. The tion process by combining thermal cracking and solids were previously dewatered with belt filter 50 condensation reactions into gaseous (pyrogas), liquid presses to approximately 20 percent solids and (bio-oil), and solid (biochar) fractions. One benefit subsequently dried in a batch thermal dryer fired 40 of these high-temperature-conversion alternatives with natural gas to evaporate water, resulting in a is that they ultimately produce an energy-laden biosolids product of approximately 93 percent solids. pyrogas that can run the conversion system and The dried biosolids material previously met Class A 30 eighted Score – based 100 dry dewatered sludge fed to these systems. The Exceptional Quality biosolids status by achieving all W char produced reportedly has significant market pathogen and vector-attraction reduction require- value in agriculture and other applications, such as ments as well as meeting the concentration limits 20 a supplemental fuel in cement kilns. Recent testing of heavy metals according to the US EPA 40 Code of by at least two system suppliers determined another Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 503 Rule. benefit: high-temperature-conversion processes such Twenty-eight of the most commonly measured 10 as pyrolysis have been found to eliminate measur- PFAS compounds were analyzed in the feed able PFAS from the dried biosolids so that the char biosolids, biochar, and bio-oil, and 31 PFAS

0 produced is PFAS-free. compounds were analyzed in the pyrogas. Three 3b Biodryer 3a Expanded 7 Status quo 5 Status quo 4 Status quo 6 Status quo 8 Status quo 1a Expanded 1b Status 2 Status quo 0 Status quo One example is a demonstration project that PFAS compounds were detected in the biochar at + Pyrolysis status quo + THP + MAD + MAD + PAD + MAD + TAD + TCHP + Status quo quo/Recover + composting (1a) + MAD (Add thermal heat + add investigated the application of high-temperature the 932ºF (500ºC) pyrolysis temperature, all at less Pyrolysis dryer) solar dryer pyrolysis technology for biosolids management than 0.5 ppb (dry weight). No PFAS compounds Figure 2. Results of the scoring of potential solutions using the non-monetary criteria developed and its efficacy in eliminating PFAS from the solid were detected in the biochar at the 1,292ºF (700ºC)

46 | NEWEA JOURNAL / SPRING 2021 NEWEA JOURNAL / SPRING 2021 | 47 | Adaptive biosolids master planning | restore enhance sustain maintain

20 transform your the biosolids produced. With at least two full-scale 18 biosolids carbonization plants operating in the environment United States and several more in various stages of 16 construction or design, this technology option has ■ resiliency 500°C 700°C potential to address PFAS in biosolids should regula- ■ treatment 14 tions require. ■ emerging contaminants (PFOS/PFOA) Another thermal treatment technology being ■ geotechnical and structural 12 evaluated by several utilities at pilot scale is the ■ energy - renewables & efficiency hydrothermal liquefaction process (HTP). At least ■ stormwater BMPs AS (ug) two pilots in North America are exploring this tech- 10 ■ asset management nology on biosolids. This process has been demon- ■ planning & permitting otal P F 8 strated in laboratory scale on various organic waste T materials. It uses high temperatures and pressures ■ design & construction 6 operating just below the thermodynamic critical ■ 24/7 repair & maintenance point for water. The demonstration HTP system will ■ backflow prevention 4 heat and pump dewatered sludge cake (20 percent ■ cross connection total solids) to 2,900 psi (200 bar), 662ºF (350ºC), which ■ operations & training 2 then will pass through a plug-flow reactor for 10 to ■ electrical & instrumentation 30 minutes. The process does not require drying the 0 dewatered biosolids, an advantage over carboniza- Biochar PyroGas Bio-oil Destroyed/Converted tion. Without added air or oxygen, biomass feed is westonandsampson.com Figure 4. Total measured PFAS mass outputs from 20 µg of PFAS input 1-800-SAMPSON at 932ºF and 1,292ºF (500ºC and 700ºC) converted to a mixture of slightly oxygenated liquid hydrocarbon products, referred to collectively as Offices along the East Coast pyrolysis temperature. PFOS was measured at biocrude or biocrude oil. Other outputs from the an employee-owned company 26.6 ppb in the feed biosolids but not detected in reaction include precipitants, water effluent, and the biochar, bio-oil, or pyrogas at either pyrolysis renewable natural gas. The biocrude can be upgraded temperature. Although not detected in the dried to a hydrocarbon product similar to fossil crude oil biosolids, PFOA was detected at very low concentra- through the catalytic addition of hydrogen and then tions in the biochar and pyrogas, indicating a lack marketed as an oil. Because of the high temperatures of complete destruction and/or transformation and pressures, vendors claim solids and microcon- of precursor compounds during pyrolysis. A mass stituents are effectively converted to fuel products. balance analysis on the biochar, bio-oil, and pyrogas Several utilities, departments of energy, consultants, streams was conducted, and removals of PFAS were and researchers are partnering in this demonstra- estimated. The result of mass balance analysis based tion project to determine not only the viability of the on the input weight of 20 µg of measured PFAS is process but the ability of the process to eliminate summarized in Figure 4. The results indicate a total PFAS and other CECs from biosolids. measured PFAS mass removal of 84.4 percent and 95.6 percent for 932ºF and 1,292ºF (500ºC and 700ºC) About the Author operating temperatures, respectively, for all the PFAS Todd Williams, PE, BCEE, is the past chair of the tested as shown. Based on this bench testing, higher Water Environment Federation’s Residuals and temperatures of the pyrolysis process effectively Biosolids Committee and is the residuals resource removed or converted more of the PFAS compounds recovery practice leader at Jacobs. Mr. Williams measured. has 40 years of experience assisting wastewater This analysis demonstrates that high-temperature utilities, agencies, and communities throughout conversion can be considered as part of planned North America in developing sustainable biosolids upgrades by adding to biosolids drying operations management programs. Water, wastewater, later in response to any future regulatory require- For additional information, Mr. Williams can be ment to reduce or remove PFAS or potentially other reached at [email protected]. and civil infrastructure contaminants of emerging concern (CECs) from services since 1947.

wright-pierce.com/careers

48 | NEWEA JOURNAL / SPRING 2021 NEWEA JOURNAL / SPRING 2021 | 49 | Committee Focus | Committee Focus

The RBC falls under WEF’s Resource Recovery technologies for biosolids handling Residuals Management Community of Practice with Jay Swift as director. It facilities. Rashi Gupta administers the National Biosolids Partnership (NBP) (Carollo Engineers) program, which the current committee leadership is chairs this subcom- anaging residuals from water resource information with and supporting WEF and its updating with the assistance of Patrick Dube of WEF. mittee along with Vice recovery facility (WRRF) treatment Member Association Biosolids Committee counter- NEWEA’s RMC participates in WEF’s National Biosolids Chair Ed Fritz (Huber processes is important to the clean water parts across the country. Partnership Advisory Committee, administering a Technology). The group Mbusiness. Not only is it a large part of In 2020, the RMC participated in the Massachu- certification program for exceptional quality biosolids. developed a series of a utility’s operating budget, it also poses the most setts Department of Environmental Protection dewatering fact sheets BIOSOLIDS significant operating risk. Only three management (MassDEP) Stakeholder Meeting No. 1, representing WEF’s RBC has seven subcommittees: in 2019, and the RMC Communications methods exist: thermal treatment (e.g., incineration), its membership as MassDEP considers rules and 1. The Bioenergy Technology subcommittee is contributed by helping Toolkit landfilling, and beneficial reuse. Utility managers regulations for PFAS that could affect the beneficial chaired by Sarah Deslauriers (Carollo Engineers) review the factsheets. must be aware of and plan for impacts on operating reuse of biosolids. The RMC will also participate in with Vice Chair Dave Baran (Energy Power 5. WEF has an RBC Specialty costs in case of a loss of outlets or end uses for Stakeholder Meeting No. 2 in 2021. Partners). This subcommittee promotes biosolids Conference subcommittee its biosolids. NEWEA’s Residuals Management The RMC regularly collaborates with NEWEA’s and energy technologies associated with munic- chaired by Richard Tsang Committee (RMC) is committed to educating NEWEA Contaminants of Emerging Concern and ipal, agricultural, and industrial wastewater (CDM Smith). Like NEWEA’s members about all technical and regulatory aspects Government Affairs committees on biosolids and residuals. It is interested in everything from RMC, the RBC hosts a tech- INSIDE: of biosolids management. wastewater-related issues. As part of that coordina- co-digestion and biofuels to project funding. nical conference and exhibit What you need to If you care about residuals and biosolids issues tion the RMC planned to participate in NEWEA’s The subcommittee recently published a guide, each year. build a and want to share your knowledge, network with Washington, D.C. Fly-in to educate regulators on “Introduction to Bioenergy Funding through 6. The newest RBC subcommittee quality, leaders in the residuals industry, or learn from PFAS and biosolids and present the concerns of our Public Private Partnerships.” It can be found at is for Young Professionals proactive membership; however, the fly-in was canceled in WEF’s website (wef.org). (YP), who can become lost or outreach plan. If you care about residuals and 2020 due to Covid-19. 2. The Biosolids Product Use and Communications overwhelmed in a committee biosolids issues and want to share your As Covid-19 forced quarantine orders through the (BPUC) subcommittee promotes the beneficial the size of the RBC. Teigan knowledge, network with leaders in the country, NEBRA saw the need to form a biosolids reuse of animal, municipal, and industrial Gulliver (HDR Inc.) chairs residuals industry, or learn from others contingency planning task force consisting of residuals through scientifically and environmen- the YP Subcommittee. how to do a better job managing your NEWEA leadership, the RMC, and a small group of tally sound management. This subcommittee This subcommittee will solids, this is the committee for you! representatives from each major residuals handling fosters relationships with various players in be the liaison with the entity in New England. This task force identified the reuse market. It also facilitates workshops student community and others how to do a better job managing your solids, and prioritized the current stressors and concerns to and conferences that promote beneficial reuse is developing a mentor 02 | WATER ENVIRONMENT FEDER ATION this is the committee for you! Through various the biosolids market and collaborated on short- and of residuals and identify financial resources program. activities throughout the year, the RMC updates long-term mitigation strategies. for these methods. The BPUC subcommittee is 7. Finally, ABBA, the “association of NEWEA members on the latest methods, research, The RMC’s “parent” is WEF’s Residuals and chaired by Jody Barksdale (Carollo Engineers) biosolids and by-products associations” The RBC Biosolids technologies, and information about residuals and Biosolids Committee (RBC). The RBC develops, with assistance from Vice Chair Dominic Brose subcommittee, is not so much a subcommittee Communications biosolids. Committee members manage the content recommends, and assists with informational (Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of as a loose association of practitioners of benefi- Toolkit can be of the annual specialty conference and technical programs on management options, regulatory Greater Chicago). cial reuse. ABBA provides a network for biosolids dowloaded from sessions at NEWEA’s annual conference. compliance, and current residuals and biosolids 3. The Green House Gas (GHG) subcommittee is groups and committees, including NEWEA’s the WEF website For the annual residuals conference and practices. The RBC is WEF’s largest committee and chaired by Christine Polo (Carollo Engineers) RMC. Ned Beecher (NEBRA) was the long-time throughout the year, the RMC collaborates with sponsors a national technical conference and exhibit with assistance from Vice Chair Manon Fisher chair, but recently Ryan Batjiaka (San Francisco the North East Biosolids & Residuals Association every year. As one of WEF’s biggest events, the RBC (San Francisco Public Utilities Commission). Public Utilities Commission) has led ABBA. (NEBRA). NEBRA, a small non-profit focused annual conference reflects the importance of solids The GHG subcommittee is a clearing house WEF’s RBC plans to focus in the upcoming years exclusively on biosolids and residuals in this region, management and the dedication of resources toward throughout WEF for information on carbon on the weather impacts on land applications of is plugged into residuals issues nationally and also these issues. emission, and its mission includes tracking residuals and biosolids and public acceptance of land serves members from the Atlantic provinces of On January 21, the RBC held a virtual open house industry research needs. The subcommittee application—a hot topic, since PFAS has scared many Canada including Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, to showcase committee activities and goals and coordinates with the WEF Sustainability utilities about relying on this management option. To and Quebec. Examples of collaboration with NEBRA to strengthen connections with WEF Member Community of Practice and the NACWA learn more about the RBC, go to the WEF website. include the public information campaign around Associations. The open house was hosted by the Biosolids Management and Climate and Energy In 2021, the RBC developed the Biosolids PFAS in wastewater and biosolids and a cost impacts incoming vice chair, Dru Whitlock (Stantec). The Committee. The GHG subcommittee published Communications Toolkit. This toolkit is a resource study, which also included the Water Environment current vice chair, Karri Ving (San Francisco Public a guide in 2020, “How are WRRFs Inventorying for communicating about biosolids in ways that are Federation (WEF) and the National Association Utilities Commission), will take over the chair Greenhouse Gas Emissions?” It can be found on factual, science-based, and easily understandable of Clean Water Agencies (NACWA). The RMC and position from John Willis (Brown & Caldwell). The WEF’s website. by those hearing about biosolids for the first time. NEBRA are also working on a video about PFAS in RBC intends to enhance connections with Member 4. The Solids Separation subcommittee is new and NEWEA’s RMC will work with its membership to biosolids for state legislative events. Associations such as NEWEA and help all WEF focuses on solids thickening and dewatering spread the word about these tools and the benefits The RMC is chaired by Eric Spargimino (CDM members improve communications about the bene- knowledge transfer through collaboration of recycling biosolids, including materials created by Smith). The current vice chair is Justin Motta fits of biosolids recycling. It also aims to increase between the industry and academia. One goal of the RMC and NEBRA for their public information (Stantec). The RMC participates in various related membership of utility-based professionals as well as it is to strengthen synergies between academia campaign. WEF committees and is responsible for sharing regulatory and academic affiliates. and the solids handling industry to develop

50 | NEWEA JOURNAL / SPRING 2021 NEWEA JOURNAL / SPRING 2021 | 51 | NEBRA Highlights |

in their states. These state coordinators tend to The Biosolids Program at EPA Headquarters NEBRA Highlights have many responsibilities in addition to biosolids, in Washington, D.C., has hired additional staff and the past year has been especially trying, with to manage some long-overdue initiatives and stretched budgets and difficult conditions due to wants to engage with states, tribes, practitioners, the pandemic. Despite the challenges, data collec- researchers, and others to improve biosolids WEF Creates a Director Position for a long-time NEBRA member, I am thrilled that tion has seen great cooperation. Project lead Ned management. Residuals and Biosolids WEF has decided once again to take a prominent Beecher is excited about the quality of data and the EPA has been addressing the PFAS issue for The Water Environment Federation (WEF) leadership role regarding the proactive advance- number of state summary reports that the project biosolids programs on several fronts. In November announced in late January it is hiring Maile Lono- ment of biosolids priorities.” team has already compiled. 2020, EPA presented its risk assessment model for Batura as the director for sustainable biosolids The second survey is online and to be completed PFAS in biosolids (two in particular: perfluoroocta- programs. This National Biosolids Data Project Update by biosolids managers at wastewater treatment noic acid and perfluorooctane sulfonate [PFOA and new position was “Where have all the plants (WWTPs, aka WRRFs). It rolled out January 7 PFOS]). EPA’s biosolids program hopes to present approved by the WEF biosolids gone, long and can be accessed at nebiosolids.org/national- the methodology and get approval from its science Board of Trustees in December. WEF will also time passing? Where biosolids-survey-2018-data. It is for “Treatment advisory board in early spring. EPA is proposing a hire a coordinator for the biosolids program. This have all the biosolids Works Treating Domestic Sewage,” as EPA calls deterministic risk assessment as a screening tool reinvestment in biosolids programs was urged gone, long time them; they include publicly owned treatment works to determine those PFAS chemicals that require by members of WEF’s Residuals & Biosolids ago?” (nod to Pete (POTWs), or, in general parlance, municipal (not further evaluation using a probabilistic risk assess- Committee (RBC) and welcomed by member Seeger: youtube.com/ industrial) WWTPs. The goal is to have at least ment framework. It will base its risk assessment associations such as NEWEA and all the regional watch?v=1y2SIIeqy34) 1,500 of these facilities complete the survey, with on publicly available, previously peer-reviewed biosolids associations and That is the question balanced representation in every state and territory. models for leaching, runoff, erosion, air dispersal, advocates that make up the being answered by The project team is aiming to collect and compile and plant uptake. EPA was also seeking all available RBC subcommittee known as the second National data representing 70 percent of the domestic waste- data on PFAS in biosolids, soils, groundwater, etc. ABBA (Association of Biosolids Biosolids Data Project. In 2007, NEBRA, BioCycle, water flow in every state and territory of the United The methodology approved for PFOA and PFOS and Byproducts Associations). North West Biosolids, and Greg Kester of the States. will be applied to the rest of the PFAS class, with Following WEF’s Biosolids Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources This second National Biosolids Data Project is the screening tool used to prioritize the full risk Convening in October 2019, (now with the California Association of Sanitation funded by the National Association of Clean Water assessments. the RBC began its campaign Agencies) completed the first comprehensive Agencies (NACWA) and WEF. Other sponsors In December 2020, EPA hosted a three-day for WEF to put more resources collection of data on biosolids use and disposal include large public WRRF biosolids programs, virtual stakeholder meeting that included more than into biosolids. The RBC’s in the United States, publishing state-by-state private biosolids management companies, 150 participants, mainly state and tribal biosolids annual specialty conference reports and a national summary. The same team consulting engineering firms, and non-profit program managers but also various wastewater utili- is one of WEF’s largest. This is at it again, with the addition of the Mid-Atlantic associations. ties and all the regional biosolids associations. The reflects biosolids/residuals Biosolids Association (MABA) and help from other The project team has a stand-alone website on meetings were structured to maximize the feedback management representing biosolids groups and state committees. The “long Maile Lono-Batura, WEF director for which the compiled data will be made available free for EPA as it reinvests in its biosolids program. a significant portion (gener- time ago” is 2018—the data year for this second sustainable biosolids programs to the biosolids profession and the public. State- On the first day of the meeting, NEBRA ally 20 to 50 percent) of the major national survey. by-state summary reports, spreadsheets of data, presented along with EPA’s Office of Research and operations budgets at water resource recovery The goal is to provide a robust set of data from and interactive visualization graphics will provide Development, the Water Research Foundation, and facilities (WRRFs). The solids are also where one year—a snapshot of how wastewater solids insights into the information collected. The intention W-4170, a research arm of the U.S. Department all the resource recovery potential is with and sewage sludges are treated, regulated, is a sustainable repository of biosolids data for the of Agriculture, as part of the plenary session, respect to energy and nutrients. Managing the beneficially used, and/or disposed of in every professions to access and build on in the future. “Upcoming Research Snapshots.” Later in the day, solids, however, is one of the riskiest aspects state and territory of the United States. NEBRA The data can be used to support smart biosolids biosolids coordinators from Michigan and Maine of any operation. The per- and polyfluoroalkyl is coordinating its efforts with NEIWPCC, which management planning, policies, and practices and highlighted their recent experience with biosolids substances (PFAS) issue has underscored the is leading the data collection for the six New facilitate resource recovery efforts. Donations are and PFAS. need for an advocate at the WEF director level. England states and New York. still being accepted. The second day held breakout sessions on The new director is charged with being a Preparations for the current survey began For more information, visit nebiosolids.org/ various topics that EPA sought input on as well as biosolids champion and proactively working more than a year ago, with a literature review national-biosolids-survey-2018-data. actions for EPA to work on alongside the biosolids with WEF utilities members but reaching beyond and methods report completed in May 2020, with community. Topics included the following: the usual stakeholders to realize smart policies support from a cooperative agreement provided STA TED TE NI S EPA Refocused and • Chemical and Microbial Methods for Meeting Part across the country in managing biosolids and through EPA Region 4. Data collection began in U

Reinvesting in Biosolids 503 Requirements

residuals, especially in this age of PFAS. Although the fall of 2020, using two survey tools painstak- Y

N C

V EPA is re-engaged and heavily • Considerations for Resource Recovery N

I R NEBRA advocates mainly for beneficial reuse, ingly developed, reviewed, and tested. Many E O G supporting biosolids management • Experiences in Risk Communications N A biosolids managers agree on the importance of nuances exist in how data are to be interpreted. M E N N IO T T programs, with much activity and • Thermal Technologies: Incineration, Pyrolysis and maintaining all practical options for wastewater Also, integrating various solids treatment and A EC L PROT new resources being invested Gasification solids management and supporting them in prac- management practices into consistent, compa- in biosolids management issues. Following the • Surface Disposal and Storage Approaches, tice, research, regulation, and legislation. rable data sets has its challenges. November 2018 Office of Inspector General (OIG) Planning, and Challenges Howard Carter, superintendent of the Saco, As in the 2007 survey, the project team is report, which was critical of EPA’s biosolids program, • Continuity and Institutional Knowledge Transfer Maine Water Resource Recovery Department, relying on the expertise of state biosolids coordi- and after hearing from stakeholders at the October within Biosolids Programs said at the time WEF created the new position, nators to provide most of the data on the regula- 2019 Biosolids Convening, EPA is moving forward. “As a member of the WEF Board of Trustees and tion, quality, and end use or disposal of biosolids

52 | NEWEA JOURNAL / SPRING 2021 NEWEA JOURNAL / SPRING 2021 | 53 | NEBRA Highlights |

• (Non-PFAS!) Current Challenges for State and State University (NC State) hopes for funding Tribal Biosolids Programs to work on “Identification of ‘At Risk’ Organic A poll at the beginning of the meeting revealed Chemicals of Concern for Class A Biosolids and that most participants have worked with biosolids Exceptional Quality Products across the United for fewer than five years. On the meeting’s States and Major Soil Regimes.” If successful, final day, EPA invited experienced biosolids NEBRA will support this NC State project by PROBLEM practitioners to provide insights into the field. helping to collect biosolids samples from Speakers included Kyle Dorsey, Washington members. The fourth research project of interest Department of Ecology; Lauren Fondahl, EPA to NEBRA was from the University of Albany, Region 9; Greg Kester, California Association of which plans to develop a tool for biosolid risk Sanitation Agencies; Cynthia Sans, EPA Region 7; assessment using site-specific information. Best SOLVING Frederick J. Hegeman, Wisconsin Department of of luck to all the biosolids researchers! It’s our strong point Natural Resources; John Dunn, EPA Region 7; and Bob Bastian, retired EPA senior environmental NEBRA to Update Strategic Plan scientist. The NEBRA Board of Directors, led by President EPA has published a summary of the meeting Tom Schwartz—former chair of NEWEA’s at https://www.epa.gov/sites/production/ Residuals Committee—has begun updating files/2021-02/documents/national-biosolids- NEBRA’s strategic plan. The board will create a meeting-summary-12-2020.pdf. Another stake- plan for NEBRA to, as Mr. Schwartz described it to holder meeting is planned for the fall of 2021. members at the 2020 annual meeting, “ensure a relevant and sustainable NEBRA” into the future. NEBRA Writes Letters in Support of The plan will set out the board’s vision for the EPA Biosolids Research Grants 2022–2027 period. In November, EPA published a Request for NEBRA will celebrate its 25th anniversary in civil & environmental engineering Applications (epa.gov/research-grants/national- 2022! In addition to looking forward, NEBRA priorities-evaluation-pollutants-biosolids) for hopes to celebrate this milestone with a look www.underwoodengineers.com biosolids research grant proposals to identify, back at its history of advocating for the beneficial characterize, and manage risks of known and reuse of residuals and biosolids in the Northeast. emerging chemical pollutants found in biosolids. Please email NEBRA ([email protected]) if EPA is making nearly $6 million available to you have any old photos, memorabilia, stories of private non-profit institutions and public and your involvement with NEBRA over the years, or private universities and colleges within the United anything to help with the commemorations. States doing this kind of research. The grant solicitation opened on October 13 and closed on Upcoming Events January 5. • North East Digestion Roundtable, NEBRA was asked and signed on in support April 9—Co-Digestion with Food Waste, of several of the research proposals, including the Greater Lawrence Sanitary District’s Remote Monitoring Just the Water Research Foundation’s project, Start-Up Experience (nebiosolids.org/ “Unregulated Chemicals in Biosolids: Chemical ne-digestion-roundtable) Got a Whole Lot Easier. Prioritization, Fate and Risk Evaluation for Land • WEF Residuals and Biosolids Conference, Applications.” NEBRA also wrote in support of May 11–13 (wef.org/events/conferences/ the University of Buffalo’s project, “Prioritization upcoming-conferences/ResidualsBiosolids/) of Pollutants in Land-Applied Biosolids Based on Occurrence, Fate, and Risks.” North Carolina

CONTACT US TO LEARN MORE Janine Burke-Wells, Executive Director 603-323-7654 / [email protected] [email protected] 800.225.4616 For additional news or to subscribe to NEBRAMail, NEBRA’s email newsletter, www.tisales.com 36 Hudson Rd visit nebiosolids.org Sudbury, MA 01776

54 | NEWEA JOURNAL / SPRING 2021 NEWEA JOURNAL / SPRING 2021 | 55 2021 Student Poster Board Competition Rain Rain Flush Away: Evaluating Rainwater Catchment First Flush Volumes

Bridgette Charlebois [email protected] he NEWEA Student Activities Committee Boston,” and by graduate student Bridgette Charlebois Department of Environmental and Water Resources Engineering, University of Massachusetts Amherst hosted a virtual version of the annual student of the University of Massachusetts Amherst for her poster competition during this year’s Annual project, “Rain Rain Flush Away: Evaluating Rainwater Background Phase 1: Tracer Study Phase 2: Fractionation Method • Rainwater harvesting is defined as an alternative improved Methods Methods Front View: Conference. Students from six universities Catchment First Flush Volumes.” The winning posters source of drinking water by the World Health Organization • Taking the tracer study and T • It is a cheap, easily maintained and accessible solution for • Simulated rain using a participated: Northeastern University, University of are included here. previously published work potable and grey water supply 2 manifold on 800 ft case we designed a first flush Massachusetts Amherst, University of Massachusetts The Student Activities Committee thanks all the • There is high variability in water quality and system design study roof system of 40 gallons • Varied doses of NaCl Lowell, University of New Hampshire, University of student teams for their hard work and enthusiasm. Collection System Components Θ = ~ 5 degrees Θ • Collection Surface –impervious Tracer 5 Vermont, and Worcester Polytechnic Institute. Five We also extend our gratitude to all the professionals 5 5 33’ 5 5 31’ • Varied flow rates to mimic gal 5 5 5 rooftop gal gal gal gal gal gal gal • Collection System – gutters and different rain intensities Collection undergraduate and two graduate poster entries were who volunteered their time to judge the competition. Tank downspouts • Conductivity measurements presented during the session and judged by a panel As always, the quality of the student posters was • Usage System – distribution • Fractionated first flush into of industry professionals. The virtual session enabled impressive, and we highly recommend stopping by the system • Quality control – debris screens eight 5-gallon buckets judges and attendees to move between breakout session at the 2022 Annual Conference if you missed and First Flush • Designed to create a Sswm.info Analysis • Influent tap water profile of first flush over rooms to engage with each poster session participant. it this year. (C0) and salt water time and volume (C) The winning posters were presented by undergradu- If your organization would like to support future • Switch influent to Analysis tap water when C is • Sample raw rainwater, each bucket, and collection tank ates Hannah Schulz, Lauren Kaija, Trisha Worthington, student poster sessions and the student engineers reached • Compare water quality parameters Chase Guadino, and Emilia Perez of Worcester and scientists who present their work, please reach • Record time until C0 • Conductivity • Integrated • UV 254 Polytechnic Institute for their project, “A Study of out to the Student Activities Committee chair for more Conductivity vs • Dissolved Organic Carbon (DOC) Time graph to Results Sea Level Rise and Designs for Coastal Resiliency in information about sponsoring this event. determine first flush • Low intensity storm HarvesrH20.com Fractionation of DOC volume required 45 leads to higher concentrated ﬁrst First Flush System V = (Average flow) x ( Time to reach C0 ) 40 High Intensity ﬂush volume • Purpose: Diverts the first wash of polluted water in order to Results 35 Rain Event • improve water quality of the collected water to protect First Flush Volume vs. Salt Added First Flush Volume vs. Rain Intensity 30 Raw water DOC is

) •

60.00 60.00 /L Low

d considerably d 25 human health Intensity ir e ir e A Study of Sea Level Rise and Designs for Coastal Resiliency in Boston 50.00 50.00 (m g lower than in ﬁrst 20 Rain q u q u • reduce tank maintenance O C ﬂush D Event By Chase Gaudino ([email protected]), Lauren Kaija ([email protected]), Emilia Perez ([email protected]), 40.00 40.00 • Majority of pollutants are washed off during the first 1 -2 mm 15 30.00 30.00 ume R e Hannah Schulz ([email protected]), and Trisha Worthington ([email protected]) ume R e Low Salt 10 • 40 gallons is not o l o l

of runoff (Compisano, 2017) (gal) (gal) V 20.00 V 20.00 High Salt suﬃcient to A WPI Major Qualifying Project, December 2020 5 sh • DOC is a key pollutant as it is a quantification of natural sh 10.00 10.00 decrease DOC to l u l u 0 t F

t F 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 raw levels organic matter (NOM), a precursor for disinfection -by- 0.00 0.00 r s 52 500 1100 r s 0.41 0.78 Bucket F i products (DBP), which could be of concern when treating F i Project Goal and Objectives Results of 48” of Sea Level Rise Flood Protection Design NaCl added (g) Rain Intensity (in/hr) Goal: To understand how an additional 12” of SLR will impact the rainwater with chlorine treatments Conclusions residents and businesses in Boston during a 1% annual chance • Increasing salt dose impacted • Lower intensity leads to less • First flush is successful in diverting concentrated water flooding event. Objectives the first flush volume required required first flush volume • The Tracer Study and 2 mm rule recommended volume do Objectives: proportionally not take into consideration varying collection environments 1. Update the current CRB 1% annual chance flooding event map of • Identify the minimum first flush volume needed in order and rain intensity 36” SLR to reflect a 48” SLR scenario and create a depth grid of to maintain water quality Tracer Study the new projections 2 • Evaluating how optimal first flush volume is impacted First Flush Volume for 800 ft = 33 gallons Future Work 2. Assess impacts of SLR on property damage, resident relocation Figures 5 & 6. Site 1 (above): Wall replacement and extension of rock by: costs, and business effects in the new inundation scenario revetment with native grasses & rock breakwaters • Rain Intensity 2 mm Runoff Rule • Characterize rain intensity per bucket to demonstrate 3. Provide coastal resiliency design options for a vulnerable First Flush Volume for 800 ft2 = 40 gallons intensity effect on wash out community at higher risk of inundation with no current planned • Location of Collection project • Seasonal Variation • Compare seasonal variation of collected storm events • Estimating DBP formation Background Climate Ready Boston: An initiative created by the City of Boston to prepare for the impacts of climate change and to design climate Figures 6 & 7. resiliency projects to protect against those effects. Site 2 and 3 (right): East Boston Deployable flood CRB’s Predictions from 2016: Higher Prediction Scenario: Figure 2. East Boston 48” SLR Scenario barriers ● 9” SLR by 2030 ● 48” of SLR 2070s or later ● 21” SLR by 2050 ● 36” SLR 2070s or later Recommendations Social Vulnerability Index ● Replacement of the crumbling floodwall and extension of a rock The CDC Social Vulnerability Index was used to identify areas of revetment with native grasses Figure 4. Depth Grids of East Boston 48” SLR the city where people are most vulnerable to the impacts of climate ● Construction of retaining walls for future deployable flood barriers change. The team focused in on East Boston due to higher SVIs and The pink in Figures 2 and 3 illustrate new flooding ● Implementation of educational programs and/or signage on climate coastal proximity. that could possibly occur during a 1% annual change, extreme weather events, and rising sea levels chance storm event, with 48” of sea level rise. Depth of flooding in different areas of East Boston is illustrated in the top right in Figure 4. Lidar DEM data was used to assess contour lines during Central Boston the adjustment of CRB’s 36” SLR GIS shapefile. Figure 3. Central Boston 48” SLR Scenario

Results of East Boston Impact Assessment

●

● Figure 8. Site Locations of Flood Protection System along Condor St.

● Acknowledgements Undergraduate WinnerS Graduate Student Winner ● Special thanks to Stephanie Harrison, David VanHoven, Professor Albano, Professor LePage, Jeremy DelPrete, and Ben Schattschneider for the guidance Hannah Schulz, Lauren Kaija, Emilia Perez, Bridgette Charlebois, University of Massachusetts Amherst Figure 1. SVI Maps of Boston and knowledge they provided throughout the duration of this project. Trisha Worthington, and Chase Gaudino Worcester Polytechnic Institute

56 | NEWEA JOURNAL / SPRING 2021 NEWEA JOURNAL / SPRING 2021 | 57

(An additional 201 homes for (An additional $0.28 Billion for a total a total of 2295) of $1.59 Billion)

($1.31 Billion) (2094 Homes) CAWPCA • On December 23, 2020, Commissioner Katie Dykes CAWPCA, led by President Tom Sgroi, held its first extended the deadlines for the notification required virtual workshop to accommodate Covid-19 safety proto- by the MIU GP and registration required by the SIU cols limiting public gatherings. Although many were GP for past registrants to April 29, 2021. Notifications disappointed we could not meet at the Aqua Turf this for the MIU GP will be submitted to the publicly Connecticut fall and network with our favorite colleagues, the virtual owned treatment works (POTWs) only. POTWs are workshop was well attended. The workshop was held encouraged to provide information on their websites State Director on two consecutive Fridays in November from 12:30pm regarding where the permitted entity should email info at to 2:00pm. or send MIU GP notifications. If a wastewater is ctwpaa.org The first session, on November 6, featured a CT DEEP discharged to a sewer pipe managed by one POTW Report update from George Hicks and a technical presenta- and the wastewater flows to a treatment plant by Bill Norton tion by Carina Hart of JK Muir on Connecticut energy managed by a second POTW, both POTWs should [email protected] efficiency programs for wastewater utilities. Brian Armet receive a copy of the notification. was presented with a CAWPCA Presidential Excellence • The general permits, fact sheets, forms, and Zoom, zoom, zoom with a little Webex and Microsoft Teams thrown in for good measure; award in recognition of his long-term dedication frequently asked questions are available on CT just some words reflecting the way we are all meeting these days. The Covid-19 Pandemic and exemplary service to the water pollution control DEEP’s website. profession. has created the need and required our resolve to overcome and prosper using modern The second session, on November 13, included a NEWEA and WEF Award Recipients technologies to accomplish our goals. The NEWEA family has used these resources for government affairs update from lobbyist Melissa Biggs, • CT Operator of the Year—Mark Bukowski, East Executive Committee meetings, specialty conferences, and even our Annual Conference. who highlighted the upcoming legislative session and Windsor Water Pollution Control Facility I am not alone in hoping that we can all be together at the Spring Meeting. Connecticut is shared insight on how the legislature plans to operate • CT Alfred E. Peloquin Award—Gary Zrelak, Greater no different, as we continue to do our business using these formats, and here is my update using webcast technology for public hearings. Mike New Haven Regional WPCA Schrader of Tighe and Bond presented information • Founders Award—Jeanette Brown, Manhattan on our (mostly virtual) activities. on how municipalities set sewer user rates, balancing College long-term financial planning with affordability and equity • Arthur SIdney Bedell Award—Dennis Palumbo Covid-19 Pandemic co-signed and sent a letter to the state legisla- among ratepayers. Robbie Marshal of Old Saybrook Congratulations to Jennifer Kelly Lachmayr for a Governor Ned Lamont continues to provide daily ture successfully encouraging the inclusion of Water Pollution Control Authority (WPCA) received a NEWEA presidency like no other! With the Covid-19 press briefings, reassuring the state regarding wastewater workers as essential employees to Presidential Excellence award. pandemic, nothing was normal or could be expected. Covid-19 protocols and statistics, and mapping be included in Phase IB of the state’s vaccine Both sessions concluded with results of a Covid-19 However, even given these challenges Ms. Lachmayr out a plan to administer the vaccine, while urging rollouts. survey issued though CAWPCA membership and led us through these times, meeting all NEWEA goals the public to take all necessary precautions to • CT DEEP has structured a procedure for online summarized by Ted Donoghue of Litchfield WPCA. and moving our organization forward. Great job! Now prevent the spread of the virus. He has described certification testing via the Association of Boards Survey results along with video replay of each session we have an incoming president who is a past state the completion of phase 1A of the vaccine roll out of Certification. An additional fee of $112 is can be accessed at cawpca.org. director and Connecticut Alfred E. Peloquin Award and the start of phase 1B, which lists wastewater required for site and administration costs, above Progress continues toward an eventual merger of recipient. I know all my fellow Nutmeggers and NEWEA operators as intended recipients. Connecticut the state’s fee of $240. CTWEA is working with the CAWPCA and CTWEA into one water environment members are proud to welcome in Virgil Lloyd. Department of Energy and Environmental Protection the state to reduce these costs. association. We are gradually increasing our collabora- (CT DEEP) continues to support municipalities by • CTWEA is also working with CT DEEP to enable tion, currently focusing on legislative outreach using our Upcoming Events conducting its business, programs, and meetings an operator to retain his or her license after shared lobby firm DePino, Nunez, and Biggs. Merger • Ray Bahr remains optimistic he will soon announce virtually, by phone, or electronically as statewide leaving the field by earning additional training committees from both organizations meet monthly and his CTWEA Ski Day most spend no time in their offices. Locally, mayors contact hours (TCHs) in the field. Currently, if are creating other joint wastewater committees to help • CTWEA Product Show, which is normally held in and first selectpersons are keeping their respective an operator leaves the field for two years, the with issues such as education and workforce develop- April, is tentatively planned for late summer or early communities aware of the protocols, prevention license lapses. Another issue being addressed ment. The cooperative efforts emphasize the benefits of fall details, and upcoming vaccine events at this level. is for an operator to obtain a Class IV operator- the potential merger. • CAWPCA Spring Meeting is expected to be virtual In Fairfield, our first selectperson and the fire chief in-training (OIT) license. The OIT designation once again inform the community daily through a website and is currently available only for Class I, II, and III DEEP MIU and SIU Permitting • CTWEA Sewer Open—This popular golfing event weekly by press release of current Covid-19 data for levels. Sally Keating of the Hartford Metropolitan District and has always been held on the third Friday in June. the town, county, and state, and globally, while also • CT DEEP has moved to virtual inspection of the General Permit from Miscellaneous Industrial Users With the pandemic, however, for the first time in over reinforcing all the Covid-19 risks and recommended facilities during the pandemic. Committee have worked closely with the CT DEEP to 25 years, the tournament was moved. It took place safety protocols. • CTWEA held its Annual Managers Forum in develop a new plan for this permit, unveiled this past last August, enabling more time to plan with clarity December as a virtual event. Our gratitude and fall. The CT DEEP commissioner has extended the on all the social distancing and safety protocols CTWEA appreciation to Jennifer Lichtensteiger and her notification and registration process to April 29, 2021. involved. The Sewer Open is expected to be held President Ray Weaver and his team of the staff at NEIWPCC for coordinating this event. Ms. Keating’s and her committee’s highlights follow: on its normal date in June this year, but that plan may Connecticut Water Environment Association • CTWEA and CAWPCA continue to work on a • The CT DEEP’s General Permit for Discharges from change depending on the pandemic. Feel free to (CTWEA) have been meeting monthly via conference merger. Once consolidated, the new association Miscellaneous Industrial Users (MIU GP) was reissued reach out to Ray Bahr at Green Mountain Pipe as we call over the last year to accomplish CTWEA’s busi- would be called CTWEA. and effective October 31, 2020. At the same time, get closer to June at [email protected], or ness and goals. Achievements include the following: • Owing to the Pandemic, our Legislative Day at the Significant Industrial User GP (SIU GP) was also check the website ctwpaa.org for updates this spring. • CTWEA and the Connecticut Association of the state capitol, Annual Trade Show, and fishing reissued and effective October 31, 2020. Water Pollution Control Authorities (CAWPCA) outing for 2020 all had to be canceled.

58 | NEWEA JOURNAL / SPRING 2021 NEWEA JOURNAL / SPRING 2021 | 59 VTWARN is an emergency mutual aid system that was of community among people working across sectors set up years ago but has lacked strong long-term orga- in water-related fields while aiming for smarter water nization. Owing to the pandemic, GMWEA, VTDEC, and policy and more collaborative, effective water quality Vermont Rural Water Association (VRWA) collaborated policy implementation. to update and reactivate the system. With the renewed Vermont urgency of these times, VTDEC is now overseeing the GMWEA-sponsored virtual training is underway, program to keep it effective. having hosted a successful basic wastewater State Director course that started in late January with 25 operators info at NEWEA Award Winners registered. gmwea.org The following Vermont individuals were recognized Report with NEWEA awards this year: Thanks to our current GMWEA Board for keeping the by Michael A. Smith • Operator Award winner—Marty Frizzell, chief oper- association on track and relevant during this difficult [email protected] ator Brighton Water and Wastewater, Piscataqua year: President Mike Barsotti, First Vice-President Environmental Services Eileen Toomey, Second Vice-President Wayne Elliott, I am Michael Smith, the new state director for Vermont and member of the Green Mountain • Alfred E. Peloquin Award winner—Margaret Dwyer, Treasurer Rick Kenney, Secretary Amy Macrellis, Past- Water Environment Association (GMWEA). I am a team leader and senior wastewater water and wastewater senior manager/chief President Tom DiPietro, Directors Christine Dougherty, operator, Winhall-Stratton Fire District #1 Joe Duncan, Bob Fischer, Brian Ovitt, Ryan Peebles, process designer for Weston & Sampson and have worked in Vermont and throughout Congratulations to both winners on this recognition and Chris Robinson, and Executive Director Daniel New York and New England for the past 33 years on municipal and industrial wastewater of your years of excellent work! Hecht. Thank you all for your leadership and enthu- treatment design and construction projects as well as agricultural bio-energy projects. siasm. Operator Exchange Most recently, I worked with craft breweries schools’ project competitions. This event was canceled Though this event was canceled due to the pandemic, UPCOMING EVENTS throughout New England on high-strength last year due to the pandemic, but we look forward GMWEA looks forward to attempting to participate in • GMWEA Spring Meeting and Conference is sched- wastewater planning and pre-treatment. I have to attending and judging this event in the future. our planned exchange with Massachusetts in 2021. uled for May 21, 2021. The event will be a virtual been an active member of GMWEA and NEWEA event that will include training, business meeting, for more than 20 years, probably most familiar to GMWEA 2020 Spring Meeting Regulators Meetings and awards. the Collection Systems and Operations Challenge This was also canceled due to the pandemic. GMWEA’s Government Affairs Committee continued • The George Dow Golf Tournament, which was not committees. I am also volunteering on a technical However, our Awards Committee continued its work its third year of quarterly stakeholder meetings (this held in 2020 for the first time in 20 years, is sched- advisory committee with other environmental and bestowed the annual awards to the following year in virtual mode) with staff from Vermont's Agency uled for August at the Cedar Knoll Country Club in consultants and members of the Vermont deserving individuals: of Natural Resources water quality divisions. The Hinesburg. Details will be posted soon. Department of Environmental Conservation (VTDEC) • Michael J. Garofano Water Operator Excellence meetings allow for sharing of concerns and crucial For further information about GMWEA/NEWEA activi- to update Vermont’s indirect discharge rules. Award to Villas Gentes of the Champlain information, and for brainstorming sessions and ties and events, contact Vermont Director Mike Smith I will start my first report by acknowledging Water District potential solutions to problems. They foster a sense (Smitty) at [email protected], or visit gmwea.org. my NEWEA predecessor, Chris Robinson, who • Two Wastewater Operator Excellence Awards to completed his term as Vermont state director at the Peter Laramie of Fair Haven and Robert 2021 NEWEA Annual Conference. Thanks, Chris for Wheeler, Chief Operator of Bellows Falls your years of service, and for your assistance with • Water Facility Excellence Award to Randolph Measurement unit conversions and (abbreviations) used in the Journal this, my first Journal article! Water District #1 (Vermont Technical College) U.S. International System of Units (SI) U.S. International System of Units (SI) This has been a very unusual year in the industry • Wastewater Facility Excellence Award to Liquid volume Length due to the coronavirus pandemic. GMWEA canceled Newport Wastewater Treatment Facility gallon (gal) liter (L) inches (in.) centimeters (cm) the spring and fall conferences, and our monthly • Andrew D. Fish Laboratory Excellence Award to cubic feet (ft3) cubic meters (m3) feet (ft) meters (m) meetings have been remote. However, the associa- Endyne Labs, Inc. cubic yards (yd3) cubic meters (m3) miles (mi) kilometers (km) tion has remained active under the leadership of • Bob Wood Young Professional Award to Cody acre-feet (ac ft) cubic meters (m3) Area President Mike Barsotti and part-time Executive Grimm, Simon Operation Services Flow square feet (ft2) or yards (yd2) square meters (m2) Director Daniel Hecht. A huge thank you to the • Stormwater Award to Dave Wheeler, South million gallons per day (mgd) million liters per day (ML/d) acre (ac) hectare (ha) volunteer committees and board of GMWEA Burlington for larger flows (over 264 mgd) cubic meters per day (m3/d) square miles (mi2) square kilometers (km2) for their dedication and commitment in making • Elizabeth A. Walker Meritorious Service Award to gallons per minute (gpm) liters per minute (L/min) Weight Liz Royer, Executive Director of Vermont GMWEA such a great organization. And thanks also Power pounds (lb) kilograms (kg) to NEWEA for an outstanding job at adapting to Rural Water Association horsepower (hp) kilowatts (kW) pounds per day (lb/d) kilograms per day (kg/d) the pandemic and continuing to advocate for our • President’s Award to Daniel Hecht, Executive British Thermal Units (BTUs) kilojoules (kJ) / watt-hours (Wh) ton – aka short ton (tn) metric ton or tonne (MT) industry. Below is a summary of how the GMWEA Director of GMWEA Velocity Pressure handled some of our normal activities during 2020. GMWEA Fall Trade and Technical Conference feet per second (fps) meters per second (m/s) pounds/square inch (psi) kiloPascals (kPa) The Vermont Science, Technology, Engineering, Though the event was canceled due to the miles per hour (mph) kilometers per hour (km/h) Inches water column (in wc) kiloPascals (kPa) and Mathematics Fair is normally hosted each year pandemic, GMWEA and the Doubletree by Hilton Gas Head by Norwich University, and features exhibits by about Hotel have agreed to use the $3,000 deposit cubic feet per minute (ft3/min) cubic meters per minute (m3/min) feet of head (ft of head) meters of head (m of head) 200 middle school and high school students from toward a donation of food to the local food shelf throughout the state, all of them winners of their Feeding Chittenden.

60 | NEWEA JOURNAL / SPRING 2021 NEWEA JOURNAL / SPRING 2021 | 61 • 1st Director Ryan Peebles of Clean Waters, Inc. NEWEA Awards • 2nd Director Mike Theriault of Wright Pierce The NEWEA Annual Conference awards cere- • 3rd Director Aaron Costa of Keene mony was not held in January, but we recognize • 1st Director at Large Nate Brown of New Hampshire winners of these prestigious Peterborough awards and anticipate upcoming notices of New Hampshire • 2nd Director at Large Peter Conroy of award ceremonies. For now, congratulations to Portsmouth the following: State Director info at • John Esler of Clarifiers, Inc. of Enfield, the nhwpca.org Great Bay General Permit for Total E. Sherman Chase Award Report Nitrogen • Ray Gordon of the Winnipesaukee River Basin After months of extensions and time to prepare Program in Franklin, the Alfred E. Peloquin by Steve Clifton the Response to Comments on the January Award [email protected] 7, 2020 EPA-issued Draft NPDES Great Bay • Ray McNeil of Rollinsford, NEWEA New Total Nitrogen General Permit, EPA issued the Hampshire Operator Award This past year was challenging for everyone. The political turmoil, pandemic, and swift Final NPDES Great Bay Total Nitrogen General Finally, we congratulate Jim Pouliot of Epping changes to work and play kept us all on edge. When history looks back on 2020, it will find Permit on November 24, 2020, and the permit for receiving the EPA 2020 New Hampshire became effective on February 1, 2021. Thirteen Operator of the Year. an abundance of sacrifice, unselfish help and caring, and pockets of heroes in all corners wastewater treatment facilities (WWTFs) in New of society that will ultimately define this era. First responders include our water and sewer Hampshire are affected by this permit. Each Upcoming NHWPCA Events workers who kept vital infrastructure functioning without impact as we switched from a community must decide by March 31 whether to The NHWPCA Board is in virtual mode, with the social gathering society to one of isolation and remote communications. opt into the new General Permit or stay with the normal calendar of in-person gatherings uncer- NPDES individual permit. tain. For now, the board intends the Trade Fair To those who lost loved ones, you have my attendees and 21 teams. All that attended had a The General Permit has the following major and the Winter Meeting to be a priority this year, deepest sympathy. To those who had unique great time. components: but all events depend on the safety measures in changes because of the pandemic, your story On September 25, 2020, NHWPCA held the • April through October seasonal rolling place at the time. Be sure to check nhwpca.org should be told. In the context of our profession, annual Trade Fair at the Nashua Radisson Hotel. monthly average lb/d permit limits for total for current dates of all upcoming events. what you have had to do to keep the plumbing of About 20 vendors (of a normal 60 to 70) attended, nitrogen based on the seasonal historical If you are not already a member of NEWEA or our nation functioning deserves to be documented tables were spaced at least 20 feet apart, masks average flow from 2015 through 2019, and a NHWPCA, please consider joining to enhance and preserved for future generations that may face were worn, and people maintained a healthy Total Nitrogen limit of 8 mg/L for WWTFs with your growth as a professional in the industry. As similar crisis. Please share your story through the distance from each other. Ray Vermette, NEWEA design flows >2 mgd (7.6 ML/d) or the average the NEWEA New Hampshire state director, I can association newsletters and meetings to preserve past president, attended and presented the 2020 historical nitrogen concentrations for WWTFs be reached at sclifton@underwoodengineers. that unique knowledge only you can provide. NEWEA awards to New Hampshire members. < 2 mgd (7.6 ML/d); Newmarket, Epping, com or 603-436-6192. Please contact me with On December 11, 2020, while the scheduled Rollinsford, and Milford with slight variations any NEWEA questions. As I enter my third and NHWPCA Year-End Summary and Winter Meeting and plant tour in Portsmouth was are in line with this criterion final year as state director, I continue to look for Passing of the Guard canceled, NHWPCA held its annual Business • Year-round reporting for total nitrogen ways to better serve the NHWPCA and NEWEA As reported throughout the past year, our normal Meeting by Zoom, capping a year of remote meet- • Scientific spatial loading target of 100 kg N community. routine was muted by pandemic protocols, govern- ings on screen rather than face to face. At the busi- ha-1 yr-1 (rather than a numerical water quality ment edicts, and general overall concern for public ness meeting, the annual election was tallied based value) health. Instead of reporting what we did not do on mailed-in ballots, and outgoing President Ken • Voluntary Adaptive Management Framework because of the pandemic limitations, I choose to put Conaty of Hooksett passed the gavel to Mike Carle Submittal by July 31, 2021, with components things in a positive light by highlighting the events of Hampton. Mr. Conaty must be acknowledged including an approach to monitoring ambient that were held during 2020. for his leadership throughout the year in keeping water quality, Total Nitrogen tracking and On March 4, 2020, the New Hampshire Water the association together while operating under accounting methods, an outline/plan for Pollution Control Association (NHWPCA) held the lockdown protocols. He led strong support for the overall source reduction, a process to annual Legislative Breakfast at the Holiday Inn newsletter to keep members informed and focused evaluate permit-related issues including the in Concord. Speakers included Sean McDonald, on important events. load-based threshold of 100 kg N ha-1 yr-1, and co-host of New Hampshire Chronicle and WMUR The Trade Fair was delayed until the time was a proposed timeline to complete a TMDL morning anchor, and Tom O’Donovan, director right, keeping the association budget above water This has been a defining moment for communi- of New Hampshire Department of Environmental at a time of decreased membership when revenue ties affected to address all aspects of the General Services (NHDES) Water Division. Attendance was could not be generated as normal. We should all Permit. low (20 legislators) as expected due to concerns thank Mr. Conaty and the 2020 NHWPCA Board about the virus working its way from China to the of Directors for showing leadership in the face of United States. adversity. On August 5, 2020, NHWPCA held the 31st annual The NHWPCA officers for 2021 are as follows: golf tournament at Beaver Meadow Golf Course • President Mike Carle of Hampton in Concord. This annual event led by Fred McNeill • Vice President Rob Robinson of Manchester was a welcome relief to the stress of self-isolation • Secretary Dave Mercier of Underwood Engineers affecting the masses. Attendance was high with 85 • Treasurer Mario Leclerc of Seabrook

62 | NEWEA JOURNAL / SPRING 2021 NEWEA JOURNAL / SPRING 2021 | 63 Maine Massachusetts State Director State Director info at info at Report mewea.org Report MAWEA.org by Jeffrey McBurnie by Adam Yanulis [email protected] [email protected]

“Pandemic” is an anagram for “camped in.” Coincidence? Yeah, sure. Ironic? Absolutely! At The Massachusetts clean water community and members of the Massachusetts Water one time or another in the past year, each of us has camped in our individual bubbles, longing Environment Association (MAWEA) have continued to serve their customers in the difficult for the days of personal contact and freedom to travel. It’s not a surprise; we’re social animals times of the Covid-19 pandemic. Utility managers and staff have been managing staggered and we truly need each other. Ideally the resiliency that we have worked on and continually schedules at wastewater treatment plants while continuing to maintain collection systems strive for in our profession has seeped into our personal lives, helping us cope with adversity and pump stations. Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection has been steadily in all facets of our lives. Nothing rings truer than “Stay positive, test negative.” supportive of utility managers and operators; Commissioner Martin Suuberg and Assistant Commissioner for Water Resources Kathleen Baskin have hosted monthly virtual, interactive Nothing can support a positive attitude more Collaborative Training with Maine Water than a return to the routines that typically consume Utilities Association meetings along with EPA Region 1 leadership. Issues related to Covid-19, PFAS, combined our days, especially those that so directly protect MEWEA provided three days of morning training sewer overflow (CSO) and other reporting, staffing, training, personal protective equipment and enhance the environment to which we have sessions (February 2–4) in collaboration with the (PPE) distribution, and emergency response have been common topics presented and committed ourselves. The Maine Water Utilities Association (MWUA) at its discussed during these meetings. MEWEA has returned Maine Water Environment Annual Conference. This year’s conference was to meet the goals Association (MEWEA) has affected but not hobbled by the Covid-19 situation. 2021 NEWEA Annual Conference Massachusetts developed an expressed in our risen to the challenge and The conference and trade show were successfully MAWEA, now in the second year with its updated Interagency PFAS Task Force mission statement: has returned to meet the held on the Whova virtual meeting platform. With name, attended and participated in several of the The House Ways and Means Committee of the goals expressed in our hundreds of attendees and dozens of vendors, the recent virtual sessions of the 2021 NEWEA Annual commonwealth has developed an interagency operator training, PFAS task force to address the emerging crisis public outreach, and mission statement: operator conference provided quality technical content and Conference. While the regular awards luncheon and training, public outreach, and virtual networking opportunities. MWUA and MEWEA ceremony did not take place, NEWEA plans to present of contamination, permit limits, and treatment legislative advocacy legislative advocacy. The provided 27 wastewater operator training contact the following awards at future 2021 local events: options. The task force comprises representa- tasks are mostly familiar, but the forums where they hours (seven sponsored by MEWEA) on a range of • Operator Award for Massachusetts tives of several state agencies as well as other are undertaken and the mechanisms by which they topics, including UV disinfection, water and waste- Carl Thurston, City of Chicopee interest groups and has met numerous times in are achieved have taken us to a brave, new world. water math, line installation, inflow and infiltration, • Alfred E. Peloquin Award for Massachusetts 2020 with continuing plans for 2021 meetings. Not that that world hasn’t been there; we have only PFAS, pipe inspection, thermal drying, phosphorus Keith Bourassa, City of Pittsfield PFAS in biosolids continues to raise issues with now come to better understand and embrace it. loading, healthy watersheds, industrial pretreatment • Paul Keough Public Relations Award land application and other disposal strategies programs, asset management, efficiency strategies, Bonnie Combs, Blackstone National Heritage in Massachusetts. The task force continues to NEWEA Conference pressure monitoring and hydraulics, wastewater utility Corridor discuss and prioritize the many issues facing the In January, the annual pilgrimage to Boston for resiliency during the pandemic, and PFAS develop- • Committee Service Award clean water community in Massachusetts. the NEWEA Annual Conference and Trade Show ments in residuals and biosolids management. The Katelyn Biedron, CDM Smith (posthumous) was replaced by a virtual event spanning six days sessions were well attended. Several sessions were • Elizabeth Cutone Executive Leadership Award Events over two weeks (January 26–28, February 2–4). presented and/or moderated by MEWEA members. John Sullivan, Boston Water and Sewer Commission • MAWEA held its spring quarterly meeting Many excellent training sessions were offered • Energy Management Award on March 18 on a virtual platform with the and the virtual exhibit hall, although no match for Legislative Breakfast Greater Lawrence Sanitary District gracious assistance of NEIWPCC. The main the in-person event, was exceptional. The Awards MEWEA and MWUA held their annual Legislative • James J. Courchaine Collection Systems Award topic of the well-attended meeting was PFAS Luncheon, the premier closing event of the Annual Breakfast (renamed Legislative Information Session) Don Kennedy, NEIWPCC and its far-reaching effects on wastewater Conference, was not held due to pandemic concerns. virtually, on February 2, with the MWUA Annual • Youth Educator Award and biosolids treatment and handling. Award winners will be recognized on various Conference and Trade Show. Sponsors were MEWEA, Kerry Reed, City of Framingham • MAWEA plans to hold its annual Golf platforms throughout the year. Award winners from MWUA, NEWEA, and NEIWPCC. The theme for this • Young Professional Award Tournament on June 16 at the Heritage Maine included Clayton “Mac” Richardson (Peloquin); year’s meeting was “utility efficiency and cost-effec- Kate Roosa, Kleinfelder Country Club in Charlton. Mark your calen- Scot Lausier (Operator of the Year), Shannon Eyler tiveness.” Keynote speakers included representatives • WEF William D. Hatfield Award dars and register your team or yourself at (Operator Safety), Hawk Ridge Compost Facility from the American Society of Civil Engineers, Portland Jeff Gamelli, City of Westfield MAWEA.org. (Biosolids Management), and Amarachukwu Ifeji Water District, Maine Department of Environmental… Congratulations to all the award winners! (Stockholm Junior Water Prize Maine Finalist). MAINE continued on page 67

64 | NEWEA JOURNAL / SPRING 2021 NEWEA JOURNAL / SPRING 2021 | 65 2020 RICWA Scholarship Recipients Rhode Island State Director info at Report ricwa.org by Eddie Davies [email protected]

As newly-elected state director, I would first like to thank my predecessor, Scott Goodinson, for his hard work and dedication to Rhode Island Clean Water Association (RICWA) and RICWA provides several scholarships annually to college students sponsored by our members. Scholarships range from $500 to $1,000 depending on the number and quality of applications. Congratulations to our 2020 Scholarship recipients: NEWEA. No matter how big the crowd, a person like Mr. Goodinson always stands out! He (l to r) Camille Drury, Alexander Iannuzzi, Benjamin Iannuzzi, and Kevin Gardner. has represented our associations very well over the past three years, and I can only hope to match the success he has had and his commitment to our amazing industry. New Board Members • Directors of Vendor/Consultant Coordination, Kelly RICWA held its first monthly meeting of 2021 on January Bailey (United Rentals, Fluid Solutions), and Chris DEM Announces Grants to Help Award Winners 12 to develop committees, discuss the events calendar, Campo (Seacoast Supply) Communities Confront Climate Change The board would like to congratulate the following and welcome its newest board members. The 2021 board • RI Board of Certifications, Paul Desrosiers (Narragansett Rhode Island Department of Environmental RICWA members on receiving awards: members are as follows: Bay Commission) Management (DEM) and the Rhode Island • Peter Connell for joining the WEF Quarter • President, Peter Connell (Inland Waters) • NEWEA State Director, Eddie Davies (Quonset Infrastructure Bank (RIIB) awarded $4.7 million in Century Operators Club. • Past President, Scott Goodinson (Town of Narragansett) Development Corporation) matching grants to 15 municipalities for wastewater NEWEA awards • Vice President, Nora Lough (Narragansett Bay Congratulations to all! treatment facility resilience projects. The grants will • Jose DaSilva—NEWEA Operator Award Commission) fund 18 projects and $10.5 million of construction • Stephen Buckley—Alfred E. Peloquin Award • Treasurer, Jeff Chapdelaine (West Warwick WPCF) Upcoming Events across the state to protect publicly owned waste- • Nora Lough—Clair N. Sawyer Award • Secretary, Kim Sandbach (Narragansett Bay • Clean Water Legislative Luncheon (March) water treatment facilities from storm surge, winds, RICWA awards Commission) • Annual Golf Classic (June) and other natural hazards expected to increase • Kevin Wunschel—Robert J. Markelewicz Award Executive Board: • Annual Clambake & Exhibition (September) in frequency and severity. Funding was provided • Paul Desrosiers—Carmine J. Goneconte • Mike Bedard (Warwick Sewer Authority) • Annual Awards banquet (October) through the 2018 green economy and clean water Operator of the Year • Vinnie Russo (West Warwick WPCF) • Annual Holiday Party, Food Drive & Elections (December) bond, which Rhode Island voters approved by • Joyce Smith-Corrente—Facility Support • Dana DiScullio (Warwick Sewer Authority) Please check ricwa.org or our Facebook page for all almost 80 percent. Excellence Award • Steve Buckley (Fusion Environmental Services) association news and full event listings. Statewide, 19 wastewater treatment facilities treat some 120 mgd (450 ML/d) of sewage in Rhode Operator Training and Development Island. These highly technical and costly systems, In 2020, RICWA continued to provide high- MAINE continued from page 64 which treat and remove pollutants from wastewater, level continuing education for operators, while …Protection (ME DEP), and Maine Center for Disease improvement funding. The committee has also been protect our state's waters—especially important offering state approved training contact hours to Control and Prevention (CDC) drinking water program. working with the ME DEP to facilitate science-based for public health, recreation, and our economy. Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island for The number of legislators that signed up in advance to actions on both nutrient criteria and response to PFAS Designed to take advantage of gravity, many waste- two of the three virtual training classes below: participate in the forum increased significantly. The only contamination. water facilities and associated pump stations risk “Introduction to the Bioreactor in a Wastewater downside of the online presentation was it lacked the • MEWEA Spring Conference (April 8–9) inundation due to their location at low elevations, Treatment Facility”—Instructor Nora Lough (Clean smell of bacon wafting through the room. Someone needs Because of the continuing concern regarding Covid-19, often in riverine or coastal floodplains. Water Training & Solutions) to get to work on Smell-evision! this event will be conducted virtually. “Practical Methods for Operation of Analytical • Washington, D.C. Fly-In (April 26–27) NEWEA Annual Conference Measurements in a Wastewater & Drinking Water Ongoing and Upcoming MEWEA is looking forward to virtual participation in Rhode Island’s clean water professionals were well Facility”—Instructors Bob Osnoe and Tim Larsen • MEWEA Government Affairs Committee the WEF/NACWA National Water Policy Fly-In. Having represented at this year’s virtual NEWEA Annual (Pond Technical) and Nora Lough (Clean Water The Government Affairs Committee (GAC) is tracking learned by trial and error in last year’s online event, Conference as vendors, committee chair, state Training & Solutions) and testifying on several bills being discussed in the MEWEA is anxious to engage with its national delega- director, state legislators, and attendees. Several “Wastewater Operator Grade 1 Exam Prep Maine Legislature. Like many activities in which MEWEA tion. While in the planning stages, we anticipate having RICWA members participated in the Executive Review”— Instructor Eddie Davies (Quonset participates, this is a fully virtual engagement, with no many of the same talking points (sustainable infrastruc- Committee Meeting, Operations Challenge Development Corporation) in-person opportunities at the state capitol. The GAC ture funding, workforce development, PFAS) as before, Committee meeting, Government Affairs New Please visit ricwa.org for upcoming training has been monitoring a broad spectrum of legislation but we will work more directly with our senators’ and England state roundtable, and amazing technical opportunities. including PFAS source reduction, remote participation representatives’ environmental policy staffs. We also sessions and important discussion forums. in public proceedings, PFAS standards for drinking plan to have a more structured and frequent engage- water, Superfund site cleanup, and infrastructure ment with them.

66 | NEWEA JOURNAL / SPRING 2021 NEWEA JOURNAL / SPRING 2021 | 67 | 2021 Annual Conference |

2021 Annual Conference Influence of Sludge Management on Per- Our New World—Digital Solutions That Piloting a Pre-Anoxic Fixed Film Process and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) Effectively Optimize Your Utility for Nitrogen Removal at the Poquonock Within and After Treatment • Michael Karl, Brown and Caldwell WPCF & Exhibit Proceedings • Sydney Adams, University of New Technology for 2021 and Beyond • Jeff Reade, AECOM Hampshire • Michael Karl, Brown and Caldwell • Dennis Setzko, AECOM • Paula Mouser, University of New • Carl Veilleux, Metropolitan District VIRTUAL • January 26 – 28, February 2 – 4, 2021 Hampshire Session 5 Commission, CT • James Malley, University of New Asset Management: Getting the Most Hampshire Out of Your Asset Management Dollars Session 7 Moderators: Small Community: Effective Wastewater Prior to the commencement of the 91st Annual NEWEA Conference, the Executive Aclarity—Electrochemical Contaminant Considerations and Solutions for Small Destruction • Teresa Demers, Woodard & Curran • Daniel Roop, Tighe & Bond Communities in New England Committee and all chairs gathered for the Annual Conference meeting via virtual meeting • Julie Bliss Mullen, Aclarity Moderators: Asset Management Planning for platform on Wednesday, January 20, 2021. More than 700 attended the four-day Annual Spatial and Temporal Distribution of • Mary Danielson, Tighe & Bond COVID-19 Biomarkers in NH Wastewater Wastewater Systems—A Case Study in • Dan Ottenheimer, Oakson Gardner, MA Conference virtual event, which featured over 50 exhibitors and 16 technical sessions. Treatment Facilities Electrochemical Systems for Nitrogen • Dr. Fabrizio Colosimo, University of New • James Hoyt, Tata and Howard • Steven Landry, Tata and Howard Treatment in Septic Systems The Annual Business Meeting was held on Wednesday, • WEF Delegate – James R. Barsanti (through WEFTEC Hampshire • Quynh-May Dao, Aclarity • Mina Aghababaei, University of New Using Asset Management Decision Trees January 20. Nominating Committee Chair Jim Barsanti 2022) Hampshire for Sewer Rehabilitation to Mitigate CSO Northern Exposure: North Conway presented the slate of officers for election in 2021 as • WEF Delegate – Peter B. Garvey (through WEFTEC • Stephen Jones, University of New Events in Haverhill, MA Septage Receiving and Dewatering follows: 2023) Hampshire • Eliza Morrison, Wright-Pierce Upgrades • Paula Mouser, University of New • Matthew Corbin, Wright-Pierce • Paige Howard, Wright-Pierce • Vice President – Robert Fischer • Council Director (Meeting Management) – • Michael Curry, Wright-Pierce • Deputy Treasurer – David Van Hoven Amy Anderson George (3rd year) Hampshire System-Wide Pump Station Assessment Microplastics—from Sinks to Oceans, and for Effective Prioritization and CIP What’s That Pipe Worth? Calculating • Council Director (Outreach) – Colin O’Brien • Council Director (Treatment System Operations & Economic Return on Sewer Investment • Council Director (Communications) – Deborah Mahoney Management) – Philip E. Forzley (3rd year) the Water in between Development in Newton, MA • Teigan Gulliver, HDR • Nick Stevens, Brown and Caldwell • Jay Sheehan, Woodard & Curran • WEF Delegate – Raymond A. Vermette, Jr. • Council Director (Collection Systems/Water Resources) • Adrian D’Orlando, Brown and Caldwell Partnering in Design to Optimize • Vermont Director – Michael Smith – Vonnie Reis (2nd year) Session 3 Milwaukee Metropolitan Sewerage Nitrogen Removal to the Limit of • Rhode Island Director – Edward Davies • Council Director (Innovation) – Dr. Marianne Langridge Sustainability: Technologies for Technology (and Beyond) Sustainable Nutrient and Biosolids District’s Asset Management Journey (2nd year) • Jeff Stillman, Black & Veatch • Marc Drainville, GHD Management • Richard Peter, Weston & Sampson In accordance with the provisions of Article 9.3.2 of • New Hampshire Director – W. Steven Clifton (3rd year) Moderators: • Greg Hottinger, Milwaukee MSD, WI the NEWEA Constitution & Bylaws, these Officers have • Maine Director – Jeffrey C. McBurnie (3rd year) • Lenna Quackenbush, GHD • Paul Boersma, Black & Veatch Session 8 advanced to the following positions: • Connecticut Director – William C. Norton (2nd year) • Courtney Eaton, Kleinfelder Session 6 Government Affairs: New England State • President – Virgil J. Lloyd • Massachusetts Director – F. Adam Yanulis (2nd year) Small Community Solutions—Packed Bed Plant Operations: Nutrient Removal Regulators Roundtable • President-Elect – Frederick J. McNeill Filter Achieves Stable Nutrient Reduction Moderators: Moderators: • Dennis Hallahan, Infiltrator Water • John Adie, NHDES • Scott Firmin, Portland Water District, ME • Past President – Jennifer Kelly Lachmayr All nominees have indicated their willingness to serve. • F. Adam Yanulis, Tighe and Bond Respectfully Submitted on January 20, 2021, by the Technologies • Nick Tooker, University of Massachusetts, Amherst The pandemic has certainly affected The remaining incumbents are fulfilling unexpired terms: NEWEA Nominating Committee: Jim Barsanti (Chair), Membrane Aerated Biofilm Reactor Optimizing Nitrogen Removal utilities and regulators. While significant • Treasurer – Clayton “Mac” Richardson (3rd year) Janine Burke-Wells, Ray Vermette, Jeff McBurnie, and (MABR) Technology Offers Resiliency and Sustainability to Nitrogen Removal Performance from Diurnal Influent resources are still dedicated towards • WEF Delegate – Susan Guswa (through WEFTEC 2021) William Norton. Challenges Nitrogen Loading Pattern: Operator’s navigating COVID-19, the regulatory • Dr. Amit Kaldate, Suez First Experiences Using a Grant Funded process continues. This session shared common themes across our New England Achieving Ultra-Low Phosphorus and Instrumentation Installation to Make Process Control Decisions States and highlighted developing items Metals Removal at Burrillville, RI in others. • Dr. Damian Kruk, Nexom • Stephanie Alimena, Kleinfelder • Matt Lapointe, Suez Panelists: 16 Technical Sessions Stop Hauling Water! RMI Launches • Bill Fuqua, Springfield Water and Sewer • Connecticut: Rowland Deny, Supervising Shincci-USA Dryer Projects in New Session 1 Developing an Early Warning Sensor What Came First? The Pump Station or Commission, MA Environmental Analyst, CT DEEP England • Massachusetts: Kathleen Baskin, Collection Systems: Overcoming for Chemical Anomalies in Wastewater the Shopping Plaza? Major Sewer Pump • Charley Hanson, Resource The Data Management Plan Puzzle— Operational Challenges: The Future Collection Systems Station Replacement in Fall River Putting the Pieces Together Assistant Commissioner, Mass DEP Management, Inc. Bureau of Water Resources Depends on What You Do Today • Alfred Navato, Northeastern University • Jennica Srey, Wright-Pierce • April Sargent, Resource Management, Inc. • Dr. Edris Taher, Upper Blackstone Clean Moderators: • Ken Pousland, Upper Blackstone Clean • Paul Ferland, City of Fall River, MA Water, MA • Maine: Gregg Wood, Director, Division of • Kara Johnston, CDM Smith Water, MA • Edward Whatley, Wright-Pierce Session 4 • Karla H. Sangrey, Upper Blackstone Water Quality Management, ME DEP • Tom Loto, AECOM • Dr. Edris Taher, Upper Blackstone Clean Utility Management: What a Year! Clean Water, MA • New Hampshire: Thomas O’Donovan, Session 2 Water Division Director, NH DES Wastewater Surveillance for COVID-19 Water, MA Moderators: • Timothy Loftus, Upper Blackstone Clean • Amy Mueller, Northeastern University Contaminants of Emerging Concern: • Gary Zrelak, Greater New Haven WPCA, Water, MA • Rhode Island: Angelo Liberti, Disease in Detroit, MI Pandemic, PFAS and Plastics…oh my! Administrator, Surface Water Protection, • Dr. Anna Mehrotra, CDM Smith When an Existing Force Main Becomes a CT • Mark Johnson, Upper Blackstone Clean Moderators: • Kevin Garvey, Wright-Pierce Water, MA RI DEM • Brijen Miyani, Michigan State University Cascading Waterfall • W. Camilla Kuo-Dahab, University of • Vermont: Amy Policy, Wastewater • John Norton, Jr., Great Lakes Water • John Potts, Weston & Sampson Massachusetts, Amherst Resiliency Planning—More Important Utilizing a Combination of Proven and Program Director, VT DEC Authority, MI • Michael Vosnakis, Town of Chelmsford, • John Bergendahl, Worcester Polytechnic than Ever Innovative Technologies to Achieve • Irene Xagoraraki, Michigan State MA Institute • Roger Null, HDR Stringent Nutrient Limits University • Gary Persechetti, Town of Chelmsford, MA Impacts of the COVID-19 Quarantine on • Amine Hanafi, Woodard & Curran • Stephen Jahnle, Town of Chelmsford, MA the Water & Energy Sector • Paul Dombrowski, Woodard & Curran • Chelsea Conlon, JKMuir • Jennifer Leister, Upper Montgomery • Megan Whitesell, JK Muir Joint Authority, PA • Ken Kohlbrenner, Woodard & Curran

Session 9 Session 11 • Bill Fuqua, Springfield Water and Sewer Stormwater: Municipalities in it for the Industrial Wastewater: Innovative Commission, MA Long Haul Techniques for Treating Industrial • Matthew Travers, Stantec Moderators: Wastewater Operational Knowledge-Sharing Using • Angela Blanchette, Town of Moderators: 3D Depictions of Sewer Structures in Scarborough, ME • Sarah White, Unifirst Corporation Boston, MA • Kathryn Edwards, Arcadis • Russell Parkman, Ramboll • Adam Horst, Boston Water and Sewer Ghosts of Drainage Systems Past— Treatment of Wastewater from Steel Commission, MA Restoring the Cress Brook Drainage Industry Using Various Types of Natural • Jonnas Jacques, Kleinfelder System in Fall River and Chemical Coagulants SWMMing with Updates: Preparing • Andrew Smith, Wright-Pierce • Mina Aghababaei, University of New Bridgeport’s Hydraulic Model for • Paul Ferland, City of Fall River, MA Hampshire Facilities Planning • Edward Whatley, Wright-Pierce • Sayed Hossein Hashemi, Shahid • Laurie Locke, CDM Smith Falling Back In Love with Grey Beheshti University • Mitchell Heineman, CDM Smith Infrastructure—A New England • Naghmeh Mobarghaee, Shahid Beheshti • Lauren McBennet Mappa, Water Community’s Proactive Approach to University Pollution Control Authority of Bridgeport, • Reza Deihimfard, Shahid Beheshti Managing Stormwater Infrastructure CT Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Forum • Zach Henderson, Woodard & Curran University • Tahereh Ebrahimi, Shahid Beheshti Adapting to the Challenges of Climate Panelists: (l to r) OJ McFoy, Nikita Reinvesting in History and Place to Build University Change and Precipitation on Wastewater Lingenfelter, Stephen Sanders (bottom Resiliency and Community in Quincy, MA Infrastructure—A Wareham, MA WPCF row) Ifetayo Venner, Rachel Gilbert • Joseph Kirby, Woodard & Curran Treatment of Selected Pharmaceutical Case Study • Daniel Windsor, Woodard & Curran Drugs in a Batch Aerobic Suspended • Lenna Quackenbush, GHD Bioreactor • Anastasia Rudenko, GHD Inside-Out—Comprehensive Stormwater • Dr. Mohamed Hamoda, Kuwait University Mitigation and Lake Sediment Temporary Treatment Facility Improves Session 14 Phosphorus Inactivation Reduce Harmful Energy: Optimizing Energy Use in Emerging Contaminants in a Circular FORUMS Women in Water Forum: Algal Blooms Long-term ROI for Food Manufacturer Economy—How Biosolids Programs Stormwater Forum Commemorating the 100th Anniversary • Joshua Jondro, Woodard & Curran Wastewater Treatment • Maria Rose, Newton, MA Public Works Moderators: Have Been Disrupted by PFAS Four Years of MS4 Assistance from of the 19th Amendment Department Industrial and Aviation Contamination— • Sharon Nall, NHDES • Eric Spargimino, CDM Smith MassDEP This moderated discussion highlighted • Dr. Ken Wagner, Water Resource Looking Upstream to Prevent PFAS from • Megan Whitesell, JK Muir • Maddison Ledoux, CDM Smith • Dr. Laura Schifman, MassDEP the progress in the 100 years since Services Impacting Municipal Wastewater • Sarah Jakositz, CDM Smith “Think Blue” passing the 19th amendment, as well • Carly Quinn, Woodard & Curran • Patrick McKeown, ECT2 Energy Master Planning for Cost- effective Energy Management The Birth of a New Regional Biosolids • Kerry Reed, City of Framingham, MA as the barriers to equitable access to voting that persisted after the amendment Session 10 Session 12 • Dr. Tracy Chouinard, Brown and Caldwell Handling Facility Panelists: Watershed Management: From Water Reuse: Discussion Forum • Jordan Damerel, Fairfield Suisun Sewer • Dr. Eric Staunton, CDM Smith passed, and the steps that must be taken • Peter Carney on the Long Creek to support women in the water industry Planning to Implementation Moderators: District, CT • Angelo Gaudio, Albany County Water Watershed District Moderators: • David Moering, Woodard & Curran • Alexis Valenti, Fairfield Suisun Sewer Purification District, NY and foster greater diversity in water • Dr. Laura Schifman, MassDEP industry leadership. • Sara Greenberg, GHD • Anastasia Rudenko, GHD District, CT • Dan Rourke, Saratoga County Sewer • Kerry Reed, City of Framingham, MA District, NY Moderator • Steve Wolosoff, CDM Smith Effective Online Microbial Monitoring for • Adam Ross, Brown and Caldwell • Robert Ostapczuk, Arcadis Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Forum: • Fredie Kay, Suffrage100MA Estimating Nitrogen Loading from Onsite Onsite Water Reuse Is Ammonia-Based Aeration Control Analyzing Racial Inequalities in the Panelists Wastewater Treatment Systems in • Sheng Chu, Natural Systems Utilities Worth the Effort? Session 16 Water and Wastewater Industry • Phyllis Arnold Rand, Greater Augusta Coastal Connecticut • Zach Gallagher, Natural Systems Utilities • Susan Guswa, Woodard & Curran Stormwater: 2020 Stormy Awards As our nation grapples with systemic Utility District • Constantine Karos, CDM Smith • Derek Dunn, LuminUltra Technologies • Jeff Gamelli, City of Westfield, MA Moderators: racism against Black Americans, we must • Liz Levin, Normandeau Associates • Zach Eichenwald, CDM Smith • Jonathan Clarke, LuminUltra • Julia Beni, Woodard & Curran • Kerry Reed, Town of Framingham examine the programs, structures (e.g., • Elisa Speranza, Seventh Ward • Mary Anne Taylor, CDM Smith Technologies Town of Exeter, NH WWTF Upgrade • Zach Henderson, Woodard & Curran • Kelly Streich, CT DEEP academic, workplace, community, etc.), Strategies, LLC Well, Well—Securing Future Disposal Including Cost-effective Mixing for BNR City of Revere—Bringing Stormwater and policies of the water and sanitation • Megan Yoo Schneider, Seven People, Process, and Performance— Capacity for the West Island WWTF and Sludge Holding Tanks Education In and Out of the Classroom industry to determine improvements Management and Consulting, Inc., A Tailored Approach to Integrated Water • Meredith Zona, Stantec • Tyler Kunz, EnviroMix • Don Ciaramella, City of Revere, MA that can be made for racial equality. This Municipal Water District of Orange Resources Planning in Portland • Linda Schick, Town of Fairhaven, MA • Matt Berube, Town of Exeter, NH • Meg Tabacsko, MWRA, MA panel discussion fostered a thoughtful County • Laura Nolan, Kleinfelder • Rene Robillard, Town of Fairhaven, MA Low and No Cost Operational Measures • Danielle DiRuzza, MWRA, MA dialogue around this topic, as well as • Nancy Gallinaro, City of Portland, ME • David B. Hill, Stantec for Energy and Cost Savings City of Portland—India Street Green Roof identified steps we can take in each of • Daniel Bisson, Tighe & Bond • Richard Learned, Stantec • Jen Muir, JKMuir Incentive our respective workplaces to ensure that • Stephanie Alimena, Kleinfelder • Caitlin Camron, City of Portland, ME we are equitably serving our communi- Session 13 Session 15 Setting Site-Specific Aquatic Life Use CSO/Wet Weather Issues: Rise of the Town of Lexington: Enabling Contractors ties and expanding the diversity of our Targets in Watersheds and Estuaries— Residuals: Residuals Handling industry. Machines and the Atlantic—Computer Moderators: to use Municipal GIS An Effective Alternative to Numeric Modeling and Sea Level Rise • John Livsey, Town of Lexington, MA Moderator Nutrient Criteria • Natalie Sierra, Brown and Caldwell • Oluwole A. (OJ) McFoy, Buffalo Sewer Moderators: • Justin Motta, Stantec • Kevin Flanders, PeopleGIS • Paul Stacey, Footprints in The Water • Steve Perdios, Dewberry Authority Thermal Oxidation of Biosolids Provides Roundtable Discussion with Award Keeping Downtown Above Water—Urban • Mike Armes, ADS Environmental Winners Panelists Flood Control Strategies in Salem, Mass. Services a Pathway for Maximum Phosphorous • Nikita Lingenfelter, Nevada Division of Recovery—The German Approach • David White, Woodard & Curran Lights, Camera, Action! Integrating Video Environmental Protection • David Knowlton, City of Salem, MA • Webster Hoener, Black & Veatch • Ifetayo Venner, Arcadis with Computer Model and Flow Meters • Dr. Christian Kabbe, Easy Mining to Validate and Enhance Realtime CSO • Stephen Sanders, Morrisville State Reporting Practices Treatment of Side-Stream Centrate at College, NY • Ana Fernandes, Stantec Pierce County & Bay Park WWTP Using • Rachel Gilbert, Woodard & Curran • Josh Schimmel, Springfield Water and Anammox Technology Sewer Commission, MA • Chandler Johnson, World Water Works

70 | NEWEA JOURNAL / SPRING 2021 NEWEA JOURNAL / SPRING 2021 | 71 | 2021 Annual Conference | Thank you to all our 2021 Annual STUDENT POSTERS SPONSORS EXHIBITORS Sponsor Program participants The Biodegradation of Pharmaceuticals ADS Environmental Services ADS Environmental Services and Personal Care Products in AECOM Air Clean USA Secondary Wastewater Treatment Aqua Solutions, Inc. BAU Hopkins Inc ● Platinum • Carmela Antonellis, Paula J. Mouser Arcadis Boerger Dewberry University of New Hampshire Black & Veatch Champlin Associates Flow Assessment Services, LLC Rain Rain Flush Away: Evaluating Brown and Caldwell C.N. Wood Co., Inc. Rainwater Catchment First Flush ● Gold Volumes Carlsen Systems, LLC CUES • Bridgette Charlebois Casella Resource Solutions Dawood Engineering AECOM University of Massachusetts, Amherst CDM Smith Delta Electro Power Aqua Solutions, Inc. Elucidating the Potential of Waste Dewberry DLVEWS, Inc. Arcadis Management Systems to Reduce Duke’s Root Control, Inc. DN Tanks Brown and Caldwell Greenhouse Gas Emissions in Vermont Englobe EJ Casella Resource Solutions Build relationships with water industry • Kennedy Brown, University of Vermont Environmental Partners Group, Inc. Flow Assessment Services, LLC CDM Smith UMass Amherst: Kenya Project leaders and make a positive impact on • Alexandra Shea, Chloe Smith, EST Associates, Inc. Flow Tech, Inc. Englobe the water environment Shane Hancox F.R. Mahony & Associates, Inc. F R Mahony & Associates, Inc. Environmental Partners Group, Inc. (div of Cummins-Wagner) (div of Cummins-Wagner) University of Massachusetts, Amherst EST Associates, Inc. Flow Assessment Services, LLC GA Fleet Microplastics: Biodegradation, F.R. Mahony & Associates, Inc. (div of Community, and Engagement Fuss & O’Neill, Inc. Green Mountain Pipeline Services Join NEWEA’s 2022 • Greg Reimonn, Madison Reed, GHD Homa Pump Technology, Inc. Cummins-Wagner) Demetre Fontaine Green Mountain Pipeline Services Infra Pipe Solutions Ltd. Fuss & O’Neill, Inc. Annual Sponsor Program University of Massachusetts, Lowell Hazen and Sawyer Innovyze Green Mountain Pipeline Services NEWEA offers companies the opportunity to promote their A Study of Sea Level Rise and Designs HDR J.F. McDermott Corp. HDR for Coastal Resiliency in Boston products and services throughout the year by participating in • Chase Gaudino, Lauren Kaija, Hobas Pipe USA Jiangxi JDL Environmental Protection Hoyle, Tanner & Associates, Inc. Emilia Perez, Hannah Schulz, Hoyle, Tanner & Associates, Inc. Co., Ltd. Jacobs multiple sponsorship activities. Annual Sponsorships include: Trisha Worthington Jacobs J&R Sales and Service, Inc. The MAHER Corporation • NEWEA Annual Conference Worcester Polytechnic Institute JDV Equipment Corp JWB Company Stacey DePasquale Engineering, Inc. LandTech Consultants • NEWEA Spring Meeting & Golf Tournament Impacts of Microplastic Pollution Kimley-Horn and Associates, Inc. Weston & Sampson on Tidal Flow Constructed Wetland Kleinfelder Lombardo Associates Inc Technology for Tertiary Wastewater Woodard & Curran • NEWEA Golf Classic LandTech Consultants The MAHER Corporation Treatment Maryland Biochemical Company • A web presence on NEWEA.org’s sponsorship • Louiza Wise, Ben Lavana Mott MacDonald ● Silver Massachusetts Alternative Septic System program page Northeastern University NEFCO Carlsen Systems, LLC Stacey DePasquale Engineering, Inc. Test Center Mechanical Solutions, Inc. Duke’s Root Control, Inc. • The option to customize sponsorship levels by selecting Stantec Hazen and Sawyer to participate in up to eight additional unique NEWEA Surpass Chemical Company, Inc. Microrganic Technologies Kimley-Horn and Associates, Inc. events plus additional activities Synagro Northeast, LLC New England Environmental Equipment NORESCO Kleinfelder Tata & Howard, Inc. Sponsorship Benefits: Technology Sales Assoc., Inc. Oakson, Inc. LandTech Consultants The MAHER Corporation Orenco Systems Inc Mott MacDonald • Increased corporate visibility and marketing opportunities Tighe & Bond, Inc. Pavers by Ideal NEFCO before a wide audience of water industry professionals Raedlinger Primus Line Stantec Weston & Sampson • Relationship-building access to key influencers involved Williamson Pump & Motor Resource Management Inc Synagro Northeast, LLC Russell Resources, Inc. in advancing water industry services, technology, Woodard & Curran Tata & Howard, Inc. Schulz Group, Power Systems by Timken Wright-Pierce Technology Sales Assoc., Inc. and policy SNF Polydyne Inc Tighe & Bond, Inc. • Recognition as an environmental leader among Sprayroq, Inc. StormTrap Williamson Pump & Motor peers and customers SUEZ Wright-Pierce Surpass Chemical For more information ● Bronze Technology Sales Associates, Inc. contact Jordan Gosselin ADS Environmental Services Toshiba International Corporation Email: [email protected] Tulimieri Associates, Inc. Black & Veatch Phone: 781-939-0908 Wescor Associates, Inc. GHD WesTech Engineering Inc Hobas Pipe USA Williamson Pump & Motor JDV Equipment Corp Surpass Chemical Company, Inc.

72 | NEWEA JOURNAL / SPRING 2021 NEWEA JOURNAL / SPRING 2021 | 73 NEWEA/WEF* Membership Application

Personal Information (please print clearly) Advertiser Index Advertise First Name M.I. Last Name (jr. sr. etc) Business Name (if applicable) Company...... page with NEWEA Street or P.O. Box ( Business Address Home Address ) ADS Environmental Services...... 10 City, State, Zip, Country Reach more than 2,100 Home Phone Cell Phone Business Phone AECOM...... 31 New England water quality Email Address ARCADIS...... 9 industry professionals each quarter in the Check here if renewing, please provide current member I.D. Black & Veatch...... 10 NEWEA JOURNAL ACQ. Code for WEF use only | WEF 21 Membership Categories (select one only) Member Benefit Subscription Dues Dewberry...... 9 The Summer issue advertising ☐ Professional Individuals involved in or interested in water quality Water Environment & Technology $185 deadline is May 1, 2021 Water Environment Research (Online) Environmental Partners Group...... 3 ☐ Young Professional Water quality professionals, with fewer than five years working Water Environment & Technology $70 experience and under the age of 35, are eligible to join WEF as Water Environment Research (Online) EST...... 11 an Active Member, while participating in the NEWEA/WEF Young Professionals Program. This program allows up to 50% off of the fEAtURE Chnologies | Al Te Active Member dues, valid for the first three years of membership. Rous Remov Pho R Phos iliTies, Fou R FAC This program is available for new member applicants and Student Ties, Fou F.R. Mahony & Associates, Inc...... inside back cover ix Communi R—s Rive beT Members. A | The Ass The Assabet VRiver: O L U M E 4 7 N Usix M B E R 3 communities, | I S S N 1 0 7 7 - 3 0 0 2 four facilities, four phosphorus ☐ Professional Operator Individuals in the day-to-day operation of wastewater collection, Water Environment & Technology $110 Flow Assessment Services...... 31 removal technologies— treatment or laboratory facility, or for facilities with a daily flow of Water Environment Research (Online) how, why, and making it work mA hudson, FALL 2013 < 1 mgd or 40 L/sec. License # ______thOmAs E. PAREcE, P.E., AEcOm, chelmsford, mA Assabet River

Hazen and Sawyer...... 11 AbstrAct | If phosphorus removal is in your future the Assabet river watershed is the place to visit. Instructors/Professors interested in subjects related to water quality. Water Environment & Technology RECENT IMPROVEMENTS ☐ Academic $185 Four treatment facilities within a 15-mile radius have implementedFollowing regulatory four differentapproval treatment technologies to achieve a seasonal phosphorus limit of 0.1 mg/L or less.of the Nearly CWMP, 14 the years Westborough after the start of a regional planning study, each of theHISTORY four wastewater treatment facilitiesWWTP was that upgraded discharge between into the Assabet river Water Environment Research (Online) 2007 and 2012 to improve The Westborough WWTP is (Westborough-shrewsbury, Marlborough Westerly, Hudson,operations, and Maynard) meet new regulatoryhave all been upgraded to an advanced treatment plant achieve a seasonal phosphorus limit of 0.1 mg/L from Aprilrequirements 1 through andOctober increase 31 energy and 1.0 mg/L from originally constructed around The Assabet River Consortium efficiency (refer to Photo 2). November 1 through March1899 31. and this upgraded paper as provides a secondary a brief history of the Assabet river consortium CWMP was the state’s first region- and discusses one of the fourtreatment facility facility upgrades, in the early the treatment technology selected and why, capital Infosense, Inc...... 10 wide planning study and included Photo 1. Westborough WWTP circa 1971 Students enrolled for a minimum of six credit hours in an accredited Water Environment & Technology 1970s (refer to Photo 1). ☐ Student all sixand communities operational mentioned. costs associated with the technology, and performance data to date. A qualitative The WWTP was upgraded $15 Individualreview community of the Assabet planning r iver’s response to the decreased point source load will also be reviewed. between 1983 and 1986 to provide documents were completed by the advanced treatment and was college or university. Must provide written documentation on school Water Environment Research (Online) severalKey localWO rdsengineering | Advanced firms. treatment, chatham, nitrogen removal, limit of technology, sustainability, A flexible and dynamic expanded so it could also handle energy, collection system, tmDL,flows ARRA from nearby Shrewsbury’s wastewater planning document, letterhead verifying status, signed by an advisor or faculty member. WWTP. In 1986, the Shrewsbury the CWMP focused on the WWTP was abandoned, and ultimate goal of significantly wastewater was sent to the Lakeside Equipment Corporation...... inside front cover reducing phosphorus discharges headworks of the expandedBACKGROUND and into the Assabet River from the WESTFORD upgraded WestboroughIn WWTP. April 1999,In the Massachusetts Department of Environmental wastewater treatment facilities in 1989, the town of Hopkinton also Upper level managers interested in an expanded suite of WEF Water Environment & Technology Maynard LITTLETON Protection (MassDEP) wrote to the city of Marlborough, the ☐ Executive Hudson, Maynard, Marlborough CARLISLE WWtF connected to the Westboroughtowns of Hudson, Maynard, Northborough, Shrewsbury, and $355 and Westborough that served theBOXBOROUGH Photo 2. Westborough WWTP circa 2012 WWTPACTON through the WestboroughWestborough, and the Westborough wastewater treatment six communities. CONCORD Nearly 14 years later, eachHARVARD of the sewer system. plant (WWTP) board in the Assabet River basin and suggested products/services. Water Environment Research (Online) Hudson By 1999, the WWTP had served WWfourtF wastewater treatment facili- that they establish a timeline for the development of a STOW these communities well for many ties hasSTORM been upgraded SURGEBOLTON to achieve SUDBURY Comprehensive Wastewater Management Plan (CWMP) MAYNARDyears. Much of its equipment Sealing Systems Inc ...... 10 a seasonal phosphorus limit ASSABETof RIVER to evaluate: Springfield rehabilitates sewer main critical to collection WEF SmartBrief at the plant, however,• The was region’s long-term wastewater needs 0.1system mg/L from andBERLIN April at risk 1 through for failure Marlborough HUDSON approaching, or had exceeded, its October 31 and 1.0 mg/L from • Options for providing- the highest and best practical treat- WWtF expected useful life. In addition, InnovativeNovember 1approach throughMARLBOROUGH March in Nashua 31. meets CSO requiremment to remove phosphorus more stringent requirements for whileBOYLSTONFor minimizing various reasons, costs each of the Legend • Infiltration/Inflow removal and water conservation measures Complimentary WEF Webcasts and more NORTHBOROUGH phosphorus removal were imple four facilities selected a differentAssabet river • Alternatives, such as decentralization, for future needs in SHREWSBURY watershedmented by the U.S. Environmental Ogunquittreatment seeks technology long-term to achieve solution to wastewater treatmenteach community Protection Agency and MassDEP. in anticipationthe stated of limits rising and sea each levels has towns in Assabet In response to the MassDEP’s planning request, the communi- consortium | 17 Westborough WESTBOROUGH As a result, another WWTP WWGrittF removalbeen operational comparison for revealsat least one benefits of advanced,ties and ents the Westborough WWTP board joined to form the upgrade was required. In 1999, the SUMMER 2013 Stantec...... back cover summer season. Technologies Assabet River Consortium to address and study regional Companies engaged in the design, construction, operation or Water Environment & Technology compact, high-efficiency systems ☐ Corporate GRAFTON Westborough WWTP board began implemented at the four $420 wastewater treatment issues that affect each community and a CWMP as part of the Assabet NEWEA JOURNAL Figure 1. Assabetfacilities river watershed are as follows: and location Actiflo® of facilities River Consortium.the Assabet River watershed as a region (refer to Figure 1). management of water quality systems. Designate one membership at Westborough, AquaDAFTM at (member benefits for one person) Water Environment Research (Online) Hudson, BluePro® at Marlborough 16 | NEWEA JOURNALWesterly, SUMMER and 2013 CoMagTM at Maynard. This paper discusses contact. WEF SmartBrief the Westborough WWTP. Statewide Aquastore, Inc...... 5 Complimentary WEF Webcasts and more If you are already a member of WEF and wish to join NEWEA Tata & Howard...... 55 ☐ Dual $45

For rates and opportunities ☐ Associate Membership This membership category is a NEWEA only membership reserved for the general public who have an interest in water $45 Ti-Sales...... 55 and the environment but are NOT currently employed in the industry (e.g., attorney or supplier). Examples of Associate contact Jordan Gosselin Members include: teachers; journalists who cover water quality issues; citizen samplers/members of various watershed/ Tighe & Bond...... 17 Email: [email protected] sportsman/conservation organizations, etc. ☐ New England Regulator This membership category is a NEWEA only membership reserved for New England Environmental Regulatory $50 Call: 781-939-0908 Agencies, including: USEPA Region 1, CT Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, ME Department of Underwood Engineers...... 55 Environmental Protection, MA Department of Environmental Protection, NH Department of Environmental Services, VT Department of Environmental Conservation, and RI Department of Environmental Management Weston & Sampson...... 49 WEF Utility Partnership Program (UPP): NEWEA participates in the WEF Utility Partnership Program (UPP) that supports utilities to join WEF and NEWEA while Upcoming 2021 Journal Themes creating a comprehensive membership package for designated employees. As a UPP Utilities can consolidate all members within their organization onto one account and have the flexibility to tailor the appropriate value packages based on the designated employees’ needs. Contact WEF for questions & enrollment (703-684-2400 x7750). Woodard & Curran...... 17 Summer—Innovation Fall—Environmental Justice Payment Wright-Pierce...... 49 Card # Security/CVC Winter—Operator Ingenuity Check or money order enclosed Charge Made payable to NEWEA Visa 10 Tower Office Park, Suite 601 American Express Signature Exp. Date Woburn, MA 01801 For more information: 781.939.0908 Master Card Fax 781.939.0907 NEWEA.org Discover Name on Card (please print)

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74 | NEWEA JOURNAL / SPRING 2021 NEWEA JOURNAL / SPRING 2021 | 75 NEWEA/WEF* Membership Application

MEMBERSHIP PROFILE Please take a few moments to tell us about your background and professional interests. What is the nature of your ORGANIZATION? (select only one–required) (ORG)

1 4 7 11 14 Consulting, Contracting, Manufacturer or Laboratories Utility: Stormwater Utility: Wastewater Planning Services Distributor of Equipment and Stormwater & Supplies (including 8 12 2 representatives) State or Federal Utility: Wastewater, 15 Educational Institution Government Drinking Water, and Other 5 Stormwater ______3 Non-profits/NGOs 9 (please define) Industrial Systems/ Utility: Wastewater 13 Plants) 6 Utility: Wastewater Finance, Investment, 10 and Drinking Water and Banking Utility: Drinking Water

What is your Primary JOB FUNCTION? (select only one) (JOB)

1 4 8 12 15 Executive Level Educator Operator Sales/Marketing IT/OT

2 5 9 13 16 ManagementLevel Student Scientist/Researcher Manufacturer’s Other Representative ______3 6 10 (please define) Elected or Appointed Consultant/Contractor Legislator/Regulator 14 Official Communications/ 7 11 Public Relations Engineering/Design Analyst

What are your KEY FOCUS AREAS? (circle all that apply) (FOC)

1 6 11 16 21 Air Quality and Odor Drinking Water Laboratory Analysis Research and Utility Management Control and Practices Innovation and Leadership 7 2 Energy 12 17 22 Biosolids and Residuals Nutrients Resource Recovery Watershed 8 Management 3 Finance and 13 18 Climate Investment Plant Operations and Safety, Security, 23 Maintenance Resilience Wastewater Treatment, 4 9 Design, and Modeling Collection Systems Industrial 14 19 Public Communications Small Communities 24 5 10 and Outreach Water Reuse and Disinfection and Public Intelligent Water 20 Reclamation Health Technology 15 Stormwater Regulation, Policy, 25 Legislation Workforce

Demographic Information (Check box ) The following is requested for informational purposes only. Gender: ☐ Female ☐ Male Education: ☐ Doctorate ☐ MA/MBA/MS ☐ BA/BS ☐ AA/AAS ☐ Technical School ☐ High School Race/Ethnic Origin (Check box ) The following is requested for informational purposes only. ☐ African-American (Not of Hispanic Origin) ☐ American Indian or Alaskan Native ☐ Asian ☐ Caucasian ☐ Hispanic/Latino ☐ Pacific Islander or Native Hawaiian ☐ Other Did Anyone Recommend that You Join WEF?

Referring member’s name: ______Referring member’s email: ______

*NEWEA is a member association of WEF (Water Environment Federation). By joining NEWEA, you also become a member of WEF.

76 | NEWEA JOURNAL / SPRING 2021

NEW ENGLAND MANUFACTURERS’ REPRESENTATIVE Need more information? Call or email: ED QUANN c.781.820.6268 [email protected] Please visit our WEB SITE! www.frmahony.com t.781.982.9300 f.781.982.1056