Book of Abstracts€¦ · Presenters: Andrew Lewis and Sheena Graham, WaterTrax Available in...

43rd BC Water & Waste AssociationAnnual Conference & Trade Show

May 27 - 30, 2015 | Kelowna, BC

Book of Abstracts

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43RD BCWWA ANNUAL CONFERENCE & TRADE SHOW

CONTENTS

Technology Showcase 1

Opening Session and Keynote 5

Thursday’s Education Sessions 6

Panel Sessions 21

Friday’s Education Sessions 24

Closing Session and Keynote 46

TECHNOLOGY SHOWCASE | Prospera Place

Time: 11:00 – 11:10amTitle: All your data in one placePresenters: Mike Scott, FlowWorksAvailable in market: 2 – 3 years

FlowWorks is a powerful web-based suite of monitoring, analysis and reporting tools that enable you to efficiently manage all of your monitoring systems. FlowWorks consolidates data from any source, allowing you to perform real-time analysis, check flow monitoring status’ and set alarms through a single interface that transforms raw data into actionable information.

Time: 11:15 – 11:25amTitle: Biological processes and trouble shooting in wastewater treatmentPresenters: David Mains, Hannah Environmental EquipmentAvailable in market: 1 – 2 years

Bioscience Inc. has been a global leader in waste and wastewater treatment and monitoring for nearly 30 years. Drawing from their roots in production of process test equipment and biological analysis, they’ll explain the biological processes in wastewater treatment and offer advice on trouble shooting. Bioscience produces microbes and offers more than 50 compounds developed to address particular acute and chronic challenges that can occur when treating wastewater.

INSIDE - THURSDAY, MAY 28

Time: 10:30 – 10:40amTitle: Fixed water distribution leak detectionPresenters: Al Turner, Echologics and Joel Sansome, Mueller CanadaAvailable in market: 1 year or less

Imagine receiving a text message on your smart phone indicating you have a water leak that has just started on a main street in your city. Echologics Echoshore DX is here providing revolutionary water leak technology.

Time: 10:45 – 10:55amTitle: Smarter data management with WaterTraxPresenters: Andrew Lewis and Sheena Graham, WaterTraxAvailable in market: 4 – 5 years

WaterTrax was specifically designed to help utilities and agencies create smart data management plans to manage their system information, by allowing them to access an accurate picture of their water system. WaterTrax is a smart data management system that helps utilities maintain regulatory compliance through automated compliance verification and robust reporting tools. In this presentation you will learn how to increase efficiency and reduce the costs of managing your utility infrastructure, which will improve the quality of your community’s water and wastewater assets. In short WaterTrax automates compliance, data verification and alerting processes, allowing utility staff to better manage their water systems, and to deliver water safely to their communities and back into the environment – all while staying in compliance with regulations, and minimizing cost and risk.

TIME PRESENTATION/DEMO10:30-10:40 am Fixed water distribution leak detection. Al Turner, Echologics and Joel Sansome, Mueller Canada10:45-10:55 am Smarter data management with WaterTrax. Andrew Lewis and Sheena Graham, WaterTrax11:00-11:10 am All your data in one place. Mike Scott, FlowWorks11:15-11:25 am Biological processes and trouble shooting in wastewater treatment. David Mains, Hanna Environmental Equipment1:45-1:55 pm Aquanox water control products. Michael Lawrence, Aquanox and Ric Gill, Unified Alloys2:00-2:10 pm Cla-Val self-operated, hydraulic control valve with new electronic controller. Matt Dorval and Fred Fuller, Spartan Controls2:15-2:25 pm Easy to operate, cost effective secondary treatment using MBBR-DAF. Chris Howorth, Veolia

2:30-2:40 pmNon-contact ultrasonic level measurement – The digital evolution. Steve Calbraith, Pulsar PM and Dan Carnduff, Delpro Automation

2:45-2:55 pm Cost effective wastewater management and sludge removal. William Powell and Patricia Powell, Acti-Zyme Products

3:00-3:10 pmTrojanUVTelos™ UV disinfection system: A revolutionary advancement in drinking water disinfection for small communities John Houghton, Ramtech Environmental Products

The Outdoor Technology Showcase in the parking lot beside Prospera Place will feature exhibitors that are showcasing:

Arc Armor SAFE control systems. Don Weirens, Primex ControlsAX-Max Waste Water Treatment Module. Trina Comartin, Pure Elements Environmental SolutionsROMAC alpha pipe burst demonstration. Mike Connolly, Canada Pipeline Accessories (1986) Corp.Tackling ‘Flushable Wipes’ The Intelligent Way. George Terry, Pureworld Solutions Inc.Singer Valve: The SPI-MV Single Point Insertion Flow Metering Valve. Patrick Leroux, Summit Valve and Controls (BC) Inc.

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Title: Singer valve: The SPI-MV single point insertion flow metering valvePresenters: Patrick Leroux, Summit Valve and ControlsAvailable in market: 2 – 3 years

The Singer model 106-SPI-MV is a single point insertion electromagnetic flow meter. It is installed and calibrated in conjunction with a Singer valve to provide an accurate flow rate that can be utilized with the metering valve as a stand-alone option, or built into a 106-2SC-PCO pilot system to provide complete flow-based valve control. Recipient of the 2013 Flow Control Innovation Award from Flow Control.


OUTSIDE – WEDNESDAY AND THURSDAY

Title: Arc Armor SAFE control systems Presenters: Don Weirens, Primex ControlsAvailable in market: 1 year or less

Arc Armor is a multi-compartment control system. An actual system will be shown, showcasing the contents of each compartment. An introductory video will cover what Arc Flash and Arc Blast is, and why owners/operators should be concerned.

Title: AX-Max wastewater treatment module Presenters: Trina Comartin, Pure Elements Environmental SolutionsAvailable in market: 3 – 4 years

The AX-Max is a packed-bed, recirculating media filter producing outstanding effluent quality. The integrated and compact wastewater treatment plant is ideal for projects with strict discharge limits (BOS, TSS, nitrogen and ammonia). It’s also perfect for applications targeting reduced operations and maintenance costs and offers reduced operational complexity. The proposed demonstration consists of a guided tour through an actual, “life-sized” 23-foot demonstration unit.Title: ROMAC alpha pipe burst demonstration Presenters: Mike Connolly, Canada Pipeline AccessoriesPro-Line Fittings is showcasing a trailer full of specialty products.

Title: Tackling flushable wipes the intelligent way Presenters: George Terry, Pureworld SolutionsAvailable in market: 1 year or less

Wet wipes labeled as ‘flushable’ are the industry’s latest challenge, as they create costly pump clogs and time wasted for collection system operators. But, the problem can be prevented before it even starts.The Deragger2 is an intelligent controller that retrofits into the existing infrastructure and monitors the pump in real time, detecting the buildup of even one or two wipes. It then initiates the pump ‘clean cycle’ before a larger rag ball forms in the pump. The energy savings of this solution can reach up to 50%, just by keeping the pump clean and operating at its peak design efficiency at all times.


Time: 2:30 – 2:40pmTitle: Non-contact ultrasonic level measurement – The digital evolutionPresenters: Steve Calbraith, Pulsar PM and Dan Carnduff, Delpro AutomationAvailable in market: 4 – 5 years

This live demonstration will show how Pulsar’s ultrasonic automatically adapts and masks around scum build-up, ledges and other obstructions within a well, while continuing to maintain a true level reading.

Time: 2:45 – 2:55pmTitle: Cost effective wastewater management and sludge removalPresenters: William Powell and Patricia Powell, Acti-Zyme ProductsAvailable in market: 4 – 5 years

Acti-Zyme is a 61-year-old company that supplies microbial granulation technology (MGT) – the simplest, most cost effective bio-matter, wastewater and sludge management solution. For existing sludge removal, we are able to disperse the sludge within the cell, therefore avoiding disposal and environmental issues. A bioassay has shown that the product, when used as directed, is safe for discharge into waterways.

Time: 3:00 – 3:10Title: TrojanUVTelos™ UV disinfection system: A revolutionary advancement in drinking water disinfection for small communitiesPresenters: John Houghton, Ramtech Environmental ProductsAvailable in market: 1 year or less

The TrojanUVTelos is the latest evolution in UV disinfection for small communities, and was created to address the needs of the energy- and maintenance-conscious buyer. It is a low-pressure, high-output UV system that utilizes high-wattage lamps in order to carry out bioassay-validated disinfection with as few lamps as possible. The TrojanUVTelos will be demonstrated with a presentation highlighting the features and benefits of the product.

Through real world examples, they’ll explain how they tailor compounds and apply them to address common problems including:

• Fat, oil and grease (FOG) buildup. • Insufficient ammonia oxidation. • Foaming.• Erratic BOD and COD reduction. • Odor and corrosion caused by hydrogen sulfide buildup.• Poor sludge settlement in primary clarifiers.

Time: 1:45 – 1:55pmTitle: Aquanox water control productsPresenters: Michael Lawrence, Aquanox and Ric Gill, Unified AlloysAvailable in market: 1 – 2 years

Aquanox is a new player in the fabricated stainless steel gate business in Canada. Our team are all former Fontaine employees, including the previous head of engineering and director of sales. Our products are used exclusively in water and wastewater applications to control flow.

Time: 2:00 – 2:10pmTitle: Cla-Val self-operated, hydraulic control valve with new electronic controllerPresenters: Matt Dorval and Fred Fuller, Spartan ControlsAvailable in market: 1 – 2 years

The Cla-Val VC-22D Valve Controller is designed to enable remote control of electronic valves in the water distribution system; it interfaces between a SCADA system and other field devices. For ease of use, the controller is pre-loaded with a wide variety of the most common valve applications.

Time: 2:15 – 2:25pmTitle: Easy to operate, cost effective secondary treatment using MBBR-DAFPresenters: Chris Howorth, VeoliaAvailable in market: 1 year or less

Moving bed biofilm reactor (MBBR) coupled with dissolved air flotation (DAF) technology is simple and cheap to operate, easily achieves secondary effluent quality and occupies a similar footprint to membrane bioreactors (MBR). MBBR-DAF offers a cost effective treatment solution for plants of almost any size, either by retrofitting existing infrastructure, or as a new build. Our short presentation will cover how it works, where it can be applied and present results from Canadian installations.

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EDUCATION SESSIONS | Thursday May 28, 2015 OPENING SESSION AND KEYNOTE | Okanagan Room, Delta Grand

Communicating the value of water to the public and elected officials: Challenges and opportunities

Presenter: Melanie Goetz

Acclaimed author of Communicating Water’s Value: Talking Points, Tips & Strategies, Melanie will speak to the challenges and opportunities for communicating the value of water to the public and elected officials.

Melanie specializes in helping utilities effectively communicate with their customers, elected officials, boards and stakeholders. With over three decades of public relations experience, she has been a driving force behind community supported rate increases, effective strategic marketing, public education, and award-winning outreach campaigns that changed behaviors. Melanie is an ongoing contributor to the American Water Works Journal, has served on utility boards, and holds an MBA from Old Dominion University, VA.

Thursday, May 28, 2015

8:00 - 9:30 am

STREAM 1 STREAM 2 STREAM 3 STREAM 4 STREAM 7

Small Water SystemsEnsuring Water Quality &

SupplyResource Recovery

Sustainable Utility Management

Technology & Innovation

Room Shuswap Skaha Vaseaux / Kootenay Pennask / Skeena Cascade / Cassiar

ModeratorFreda Leong,

Associated EngineeringJonathan Funk,

Kerr Wood LeidalWayne Wong,

AECOMBill Sims,

City of NanaimoKevin Reilly,

H2O Innovation9:45-10:15 am Water system upgrade

in Lytton First Nation (Nickeyeah IR25) – A community based solution towards safe drinking waterMadjid Mohseni, University of BC

Performance of a Coanda screen raw water intake on Norrish Creek Roderick MacLean, Associated Engineering

Application of thermal hydrolysis for advanced anaerobic digestion of the City of Kelowna’s biosolidsEhssan Hosseini Koupaie, University of BC Okanagan

Preparing for change: Lulu Islands solids system baseline definition projectChristopher Muller, Brown and Caldwell

The Role of Suspended Pavement Solutions in Achieving LID Stormwater GoalsMichael James, DeepRoot Canada

10:15-10:45 am

Doing the little things that make a big differenceGarry Drachenberg, Associated Engineering

Sustainable groundwater management for municipal water supply in the Township of LangleyChristine Bieber, Golder Associates

Organic waste management and processing: Composting and digestionSeamus Frain, Opus DaytonKnight

Blue City: Envisioning the water sustainable city of the near futureKirk Stinchcombe, Econics

Fraser River flood monitoring appBen Kerr, Foundry Spatial

10:45-11:15 am

First Nations clean water initiative – An approach to water/wastewater delivery in the Atlantic RegionGraham Gagnon, Dalhousie University

Emergency water supply system in Sendai City based on our experiences from the Great East Japan EarthquakeTakafumi Kusaka, Sendai City Waterworks Bureau

Sechelt Water Resource Centre – Creativity from idea to outcomePaul Nash, District of Sechelt

City of Richmond: Out of the box ready Solution Results in Easy Migration Mobile to AMICorrine Doornberg, City of Richmond

A practical approach to membrane ageing: A Canada-wide collaboration with water treatment plantsShona Robinson, University of BC

STREAM 1 STREAM 6 STREAM 3 STREAM 4 STREAM 7

Small Water Systems Building Resilience Resource RecoverySustainable Utility

ManagementTechnology &

InnovationRoom Shuswap Skaha Vaseaux / Kootenay Pennask / Skeena Cascade / Cassiar

ModeratorJulian Noel,

Filterco Water Treatment

Chris O’Donnell, AECOM

Brandon Stearns, AECOM

Tjaart Van den Berg, Landinfo Technologies

Leslie Nemeth, AECOM

1:45-2:15 pm Central versus point-of-entry/point-of-use treatment: The case of three small BC communitiesCheryl Gomes, BI Pure Water

Using SBR technology to cost effectively accommodate future BNR requirementsSteve Green, Xylem

Co-digestion programs: Experiences from planning through implementationChristopher Muller, Brown and Caldwell

Master planning, reinvestment planning and financial planning: The combination that worked for the District of SquamishDavid Roulston, District of Squamish

Closed vessel UV – More than just for drinking waterPatrick Bollman, Engineered Treatment Systems

2:15-2:45 pm Clinton Water Treatment Plant – High level water treatment for small communitiesDave Underwood, TRUE Consulting

Securing remote access to water and wastewater critical infrastructureZane Spencer, MPE Engineering Ltd.

Nanaimo Reservoir No.1 and energy recovery facilityLewis Macrae, Associated Engineering

Lessons learned and benefits of Metro Vancouver’s Technical Training and Procedures (TTAP) multi-year projectLucy Cotter, CH2M HILL

Ranking the toxicity of drinking water contaminants as a prelude to the choice of point-of-use and point-of-entry treatment devicesMohammed Dore, Brock University and Res’eau-Waternet

2:45-3:15 pm BC policy on point of use and point entry water treatment: An assessment and progress reportMohammed Dore, University and Res’eau-Waternet

Building a water treatment plant for remote communities in cold environmentsCheryl Gomes, BI Pure Water

Heat-seeking sewer modelYuko Suda, Kerr Wood Leidal

Life cycle optimizationCatherine Dallaire,Opus DaytonKnight

Experiences from using ion exchange resins for organic removalMohammad Mahdi, Bazri, University of BC

3:30-5:00 pm Panel sessions

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CONNECT RESPECT PROTECT

STREAM 4: SUSTAINABLE UTILITY MANAGEMENTPennask / Skeena room, Delta Grand

Preparing for change: Lulu Island’s solids system baseline definition project

Presenter: Christopher Muller, Ph.D., P.E.(WA)Brown and Caldwell

Additional Contributors: Ian McKelvey, P.E.(WA), Brown and Caldwell, Seattle WA; Jim McQuarrie, Metro Vancouver, Richmond, BC; Eron Jacobson, P.E.(WA), Brown and Caldwell, Seattle, WA; Yinan Qi, Ph.D. P.E.(NM), Brown and Caldwell, Seattle, WA

Wastewater utilities are driven to make changes to their facilities for a number of reasons, including increasing flows, regulatory changes, service changes, and replacement of aging and obsolete equipment. While many of these changes are inevitable, effective planning can provide a confirmation of project need and alignment of expected economics, environmental and social outcomes.Metro Vancouver’s Lulu Island Wastewater Treatment Plant in Richmond, BC treats 70 MLD of domestic wastewater and stabilizes the resulting sludges in its anaerobic digesters. Fully evaluate the costs and benefits of any potential future improvements to the solids stream processes (such as co-digestion, nutrient recovery, and beneficial use of biogas), Lulu Island WWTP is taking a proactive strategy by completing a holistic system baselining exercise prior to any changes, using an independent third party to conduct the evaluation. The objective of this exercise is to quantify and verify existing systems operations in order to quantify the impact of any changes to the system. This presentation will include a discussion of Metro Vancouver’s decision to use this approach, the approach taken to develop the plant’s baseline including the parameters measured, results to date and the potential use of these measures in future projects. Topics will include dye tracer studies, digester gas characterization, systems capacity measures, nutrients and biosolids characterization. This presentation would be beneficial to any utility looking to implement a system change or upgrade, providing an approach to understand current conditions and quantify future benefits.

STREAM 3: RESOURCE RECOVERYVaseaux / Kootenay room, Delta Grand

Application of thermal hydrolysis for advanced anaerobic digestion of the City of Kelowna’s biosolids

Presenter: Ehssan Hosseini KoupaieUniversity of British Columbia, Okanagan Campus

Additional Contributors: Cigdem Eskicioglu, P.Eng., Ph.D., UBC Okanagan, Kelowna, BC

In recent years, the City of Kelowna has begun to investigate ways to further reduce the amount of the biosolids generated at a rate of 60 dry tons/day at Kelowna’s wastewater treatment plant (WWTP). Currently, the biosolids are trucked to a composting facility in Vernon where it is mixed with wood chips to produce a commercial fertilizer, Ogogrow. However, due to the limited capacity of the composting site, investigation of new biosolids management options is essential. One option under consideration is the implementation of an anaerobic digester at Kelowna’s WWTP. Anaerobic digestion is a biological process in which the organic waste is converted into methane-rich biogas and fertilizer in an oxygen-free environment. Under this scenario, methane recovered from the biosolids can be utilized for electricity generation. The bottleneck of conventional anaerobic digestion is slow degradation of complex organic waste such as biosolids, requiring long retention time and large digester volume. In this study, thermal hydrolysis using microwave and conductive heating was applied on Kelowna’s biosolids to disrupt its structure prior to being digested. The biosolids solubilization (disintegration) ratio was improved up to 5, 6.8, 3.1 and 2.9 times in terms of COD, sugar, protein and humic acid after thermal hydrolysis. Up to 58.1% and 70.2% of total and volatile solids were removed in the digesters fed with thermally hydrolyzed biosolids, respectively. The maximum biogas yield (534 ml/g VS-added) was achieved at the optimum thermal hydrolysis condition resulting in more than 10% improvement in methane production (over the control digester).


9:45 - 10:15 am

43RD BCWWA ANNUAL CONFERENCE & TRADE SHOW

STREAM 1: SMALL WATER SYSTEMSShuswap room, Delta Grand

Water system upgrade in Lytton First Nation (Nickeyeah IR25) - A community based solution towards safe drinking water

Presenter: Madjid Mohseni, Ph.D., P.Eng. University of BC

Additional Contributors: Jim Brown, Lytton First Nation, Lytton, BC; John Bergese, UBC, Vancouver, BC; George Thorpe, BI Pure Water Inc., Surrey, BC; Irfan Gehlen, Kerr Wood Leidal Associates Ltd., Burnaby, BC; Ted Molyneux, AANDC, Vancouver, BC; Danny Higashitani, AANDC, Vancouver, BC

Ensuring safe drinking water in small, rural and First Nation communities has been a challenge throughout the country. Conventional solutions and approaches have unfortunately proven not to be successful in many communities. This project aimed to bring an innovative approach to the design and implementation of a water system upgrade in one of the Lytton First Nation’s reserves, Nickeyeah IR25 (total of six homes on centralized system), by placing the community at the centre and through collaboration among community, government, academia, engineering firm, and design and construction teams. The work started with community engagement and understanding the views of the band members and water operators. Comprehensive water sampling program was also conducted over a period of one year, resulting in an understanding of the source water (Nickeyeah creek) quality and its seasonable variation. The work was also complemented by extensive pilot activities during which the treatability of the source water was examined using various alternative technologies (including different filters, ion exchange, activated carbon, and ultraviolet radiation). The final stage involved the design, construction, and implementation stage. In this presentation, we will highlight the process and present the results from each of the stages. More importantly, we will present some lessons learned in the process of applying this innovative approach towards ensuring sustainable and safe drinking water to a small and rural First Nation community.


9:45 - 10:15 am

STREAM 2: ENSURING WATER QUALITY & SUPPLYSkaha room, Delta Grand

Performance of a Coanda screen raw water intake on Norrish Creek

Presenter: Roderick MacLean, M.Sc., P. Eng.Associated Engineering

Additional Contributors: Brent Schmitt, P. Eng. Water Planning Engineer, City of Abbotsford Engineering 32315 South Fraser Way Abbotsford, BC V2T 1W7

Norrish Creek is a major water source within the Fraser Valley Regional District, City of Mission and City of Abbotsford. The City of Abbotsford operates a water treatment plant approximately seven kilometers up Norrish Creek Forestry Road. The old intake to the facility was a constant operations and maintenance issues being prone to sedimentation, debris, fish entrapment and exposure to the creek’s large flow fluctuations. The City installed a new weir and Coanda screen intake upstream of the original. At this time, few, if any, Coanda screens have been used on a municipal system, but was a viable option to help the City meet all regulatory and operational requirements for water quality and fish exclusion.The new intake’s capacity is 141.5 ML/day, and slightly above the current capacity of the slow sand and newer membrane filtration systems in the water treatment plant. The project design was subjected to a complete Environmental Impact Assessment, and was monitored regularly by the Department of Fisheries and Oceans. The Coanda screens operations have significantly reduced the quantity of sediment, pine needles and turbidity of the intake water. Fish entrainment in the system has been eliminated, and frazil ice issues have been reduced significantly, but not completely eliminated.The authors will be presenting some of the interesting design and construction challenges involved in the project, and provide some updated results of raw water quality entering the water treatment facility following two years of operation.

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43RD BCWWA ANNUAL CONFERENCE & TRADE SHOW CONNECT RESPECT PROTECT


Organic waste management and processing: Composting and digestion

Presenter: Seamus Frain, P.Eng.Opus DaytonKnight Consultants Ltd.

In the Lower Mainland of BC, regulation banning the disposal of organic waste to landfills have just come into effect. Other local governments throughout BC are likely to follow this lead. What does this mean for local governments, and what are the options for dealing with organic waste?The main constituents of organic waste are biosolids from municipal wastewater treatment plants and food waste from commercial and institutional facilities, residential accommodation of all kinds, food processing industries and other sources. Dealing with organic waste is a challenge for local government, waste management companies, institutions, industries and even households.The presentation will provide an overview of the state of the organic waste industry and will cover processing options such as composting and digestion, handling and processing, odour risk and management, blending of waste streams for processing, and options and perceptions for managing the processed organic waste streams. The presentation will include a short overview of some selected small and large scale organic waste processing operations and will seek to identify trends and developments of interest to small and medium markets.The purpose is to provide an overview of the technologies, identify some of the issues with, and drivers for, selecting a technology and an overview of the market conditions for these facilities.


Sustainable groundwater management for municipal water supply in the Township of Langley, Canada

Presenter: Christine Bieber, M.Sc., P.Geo.Golder Associates Ltd.

Additional Contributors: Jillian Sacré, M.Sc., P.Geo., Golder Associates Ltd., Vancouver, BC; Asher Rizvi, M.Sc., P.Geo, Township of Langley, Langley, BC; Aaron Licker, ADP GIS, Golder Associates Ltd., Vancouver, BC; Willy Zawadzki, M.Sc., P.Geo., Golder Associates Ltd., Vancouver, BC

The Township of Langley, BC, lies approximately 45 km. east of the City of Vancouver. The northern municipal boundary of the Township is the Fraser River while the southern boundary is the Canada-United States border. The Township is faced with the challenge of competing interests for its groundwater supplies, with requirements for municipal usage, private domestic usage, agricultural, industrial and commercial use, together with a reliance on groundwater to support baseflow for its valuable aquatic habitats. In addition to groundwater extraction, changes in groundwater recharge are occurring through increased development pressures. A comprehensive regional groundwater model has been developed for the Township aquifer system using MODFLOW modelling code based on a rigorous data gathering and review exercise, and the model is being used by the TOL as a groundwater management tool. The model was initially developed in 2003 and has been recently updated to incorporate changes to groundwater extraction and land development, as well as additional hydrogeologic information that have been gathered since the initial model development. The updated model is being used by the Township to determine the long-term availability of groundwater to support future demand and aquatic needs by evaluating the effects of future municipal extraction and land use development scenarios on water levels in aquifers, and baseflows to aquatic habitats. These results will be incorporated in landuse planning, and to identify groundwater management options that will ensure the viability of groundwater as a sustainable long term water-supply source for the Township.


10:15 - 10:45 am


Doing the little things that make a big difference

Presenter: Garry Drachenberg, P.Eng.Associated Engineering

Additional Contributors: Alvin. Beier, P.L.(Eng.), R.E.T., Associated Engineering, Edmonton, Alberta; Grant. Dixon, Operations Specialist, ATAP, Edmonton, Alberta

Small water systems certainly face a variety of challenges including the lack of financial resources and the readily available technical expertise that is found in larger community systems. Yet despite these challenges, smaller communities are faced with meeting the same standard and the reality of having to be self-reliant in the quest to provide safe drinking water. Keeping that water safe requires tools and resources to ensure that our communities remain safe. Traditional methods have relied on end-point testing of water quality, but there are limitations to this approach. The detection of contaminants in water during monitoring indicates that something has already gone wrong, and that consumers may already have been exposed to unsafe water. An arguably more effective way of protecting public health is to stop contamination and contributing events in the first place (a preventative approach). One tool that can helpful in this regard is the use of Drinking Water Safety Planning (DWSP).DWSP takes a preventative risk management approach and guides water suppliers to look at what can possibly go wrong in a water supply or water treatment plant, to help pinpoint what the causes potential events may be and take actions to reduce the likelihood of the event occurring. Although the techniques of system risk analysis and management and risk communication techniques have been commonly applied within other process industries, their routine use within small water system applications is relatively new. This session will review some of the learnings and observations from working with community operators as part of Alberta’s DWSP initiative as well its applicability to very small systems.

STREAM 7: TECHNOLOGY AND INNOVATIONCascade / Cassiar room, Delta Grand

The role of suspended pavement solutions in achieving lid stormwater goals

Presenter: Michael James, Hon Pub. Admin.DeepRoot Canada Corporation

Traditional LID stormwater solutions such as bioretention swales are difficult to apply in dense urban settings - the place we need LID solutions the most.

• Land is too expensive;• Not enough space;• Loss of parking; and• High maintenance costs.

This presentation will demonstrate how Suspended Pavement Systems are providing all of the services of a traditional bioretention swale without the associated cost of using bioretention swales in downtown dense urban settings.

This presentation will use 3rd party peer reviewed research and case studies to demonstrate:

• How bioretention swales work: the integration of trees/soil/stormwater;

• The cost savings that LID solutions can provide compared to traditional large pipe solutions;

• A review of the various forms that Suspended Pavement Systems come in; and

• Demonstrate through the use of case studies how Suspended Pavement Systems can provide LID stormwater services economically without the problems associated with traditional LID solutions in downtown dense urban settings.


9:45 - 10:15 am 10:15 - 10:45 am

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CONNECT RESPECT PROTECT43RD BCWWA ANNUAL CONFERENCE & TRADE SHOW


Emergency water supply system in Sendai city based on our experiences from the great east Japan earthquake

Presenter: Takafumi KusakaSendai City Waterworks Bureau

Sendai is the capital of Miyagi prefecture, located in the northeast of Japan and the largest city in the Tohoku region. The Sendai City Waterworks Bureau supplies a population of 1.07 million with 330,000 tons of water everyday. Sendai faces the Pacific Ocean and is close to the Japan Trench, where the Pacific Plate sinks beneath the North American plate. Therefore, we experience large-scale earthquakes approximately every 30 years. Due to this, we had prepared high-tech earthquake-proof pipelines and emergency water supply facilities in advance in Japan. However, on 11th March 2011, the Great East Japan Earthquake, the most powerful earthquake (Mw 9.0) ever recorded in the country, occurred causing a suspension in water supply for 500,000 people - half of the population in Sendai. It took us approximately half a month to restore the service. In response to this widespread suspension, the Sendai City Water Works Bureau conducted the largest emergency water supply operation in its history, with the support of 61 water supply business units and other organizations from around the country.We will present an overall picture of the large-scale operation carried out in Sendai, and evaluate our responses based on data collected. We will also introduce a new project to solve manpower shortages, which were a major problem during the disaster, including ‘emergency water taps’ that enable citizens to set up water supply stations on their own in times of a disaster.


First Nations clean water initiative – An approach to water/wastewater delivery in the Atlantic region

Presenter: Graham GagnonDalhousie University

Additional Contributors: Lindsay Anderson, M.A.Sc. Dalhousie University

The Safe Drinking Water for First Nations Act came into effect on November 1, 2013. This new legislation enables the development of regulations and it is anticipated that enforcement of water and wastewater regulations will be more rigorous than is currently the case. This legislation is a vital step towards ensuring First Nations have similar health and safety protections for drinking water as other Canadians. In preparation for the Act, Dalhousie University, in conjunction with the Atlantic Policy Congress of First Nations Chiefs Secretariat (APCFNC) developed a proposal (2010) for a Drinking Water Regulatory and Operational Framework for First Nations Communities in Atlantic Canada. This Framework proposed a pooling of resources and the development of a regional based entity that would manage and operate all water and wastewater infrastructure in First Nation communities in Atlantic Canada. In 2014, the First Nations Clean Water Initiative – Atlantic Region was developed. This initiative is a collaborative venture that involves the APCFNC, Dalhousie University, Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada, participating Atlantic First Nation communities, PPP Canada and Natural Resources Canada. This project aims to use an innovative approach to improve water and wastewater services to First Nation communities in the Atlantic region. This may be of interest to small communities that are considering aggregating water services and will provide an update on the project which has a timeframe of 2014-2018.


10:45 - 11:15 am


Fraser river flood monitoring app

Presenter: Ben Kerr, A.Ag.Foundry Spatial Ltd.

Additional Contributors: Matt Osler, P.Eng., City Of Surrey, Surrey, BC

Until recently, SCADA data has not been made available under Surrey’s Open Data Initiative to empower residents with information and data collected with tax payer funds. This case study explores new tools to visualize data and combine multiple data sources for improved intelligence and decision making at the municipal level. A mashup application is being released to combine water level data from multiple local governments, Department of Fisheries and Oceans and Water Survey of Canada. The benefits of combing near real-time water level data throughout the Province assists local governments in planning for, and reacting to, flood threats during the Fraser River Freshet and ocean storm surges. A mobile friendly, high performance interactive and intuitive interface will be showcased to highlight the intelligence that can be mined from a comprehensive dataset that spans the length of the Fraser River. Prior to this approach, spreadsheets were used to manually stitch together datasets from a variety of sources into static charts for a variety of stakeholders to interpret. On demand interpretation and interaction with rapidly changing water level data will be explored in this presentation.


Blue City: Envisioning the water sustainable city of the near future

Presenter: Kirk Stinchcombe, B.A., M.E.S., M.B.A., PMPEconics

Additional Contributors: Louise Brennan

What would a city look like if water really mattered? This was the central question of Blue City: The water sustainable city of the near future. This important national publication was developed as a project of the Blue Economy Initiative and was sponsored by the Royal Bank of Canada, the Canadian Water Network and the Gordon Foundation. Its purpose is to help practitioners and decision-makers build a business case for advanced and integrated water management. The publication tells a story about possibilities in urban water sustainability. It embraces ideas that are emerging but well within reach for most – and even implemented by some - North American communities. The Blue City is not a utopian fantasy. The elements that make it exemplary are occurring in real places across Canada and around the world. See the full report online at www.blue-economy.ca/report/blue-city Through interviews with 17 North American industry experts and thought leaders from diverse backgrounds, the authors distilled a collective vision, strategy and business plan for the Blue City. Although the interviewees offer a Canadian perspective on urban water management, their insights are informed by examples and trends from around the world. The vision of the Blue City is a place where the urban environment is in sync with nature and with its citizens. Water is visible and valued. Citizens have a culture of conservation and a shared responsibility for action and stewardship is recognized.


10:15 - 10:45 am

12 13



Central versus point-of-entry/point-of-use treatment: The case of three small BC communities

Presenter: Cheryl Gomes, M. Eng.BI Pure Water

Additional Contributors: Madjid Mohseni, P. Eng., Ph.D., RES’EAU WaterNET

Household water treatment devices installed in individual homes are often recommended for very small communities. At a certain population, however, a centralized treatment facility may become a better investment. To date, there has been no detailed analysis of the parameters and factors affecting the choice between central, point-of-entry (POE) and point-of-use (POU) treatment. This project examined this for three small BC communities of different sizes and source waters, with the focus on (a) minimizing overall cost; (b) meeting Canadian Drinking Water Quality Guidelines (CDWQG); (c) minimizing maintenance and operator expertise level; and (d) eliminating health risks to end users. The three communities were Nickeyeah IR25 (Lytton First Nation, six homes), Middle River (Tl’azt’en Nation, 11 homes), Shawnigan Lake (Cowichan Valley Region District, 2,000 residents). Treatment technologies and processes considered for each community were based on the source water type (e.g., lake, creek, river) quality and variation. An Excel template was developed to analyze user-selected combinations of central, POE or POU treatment technologies; calculating capital, O&M and total cost as a function of flow rate, over a 20-year analysis period for a small system.In this presentation, we will present the results detailing the feasibility of applying POE/POU in very small communities. Also, we demonstrate through a sensitivity analysis that (a) reducing capital cost of expensive POE devices has no effect on the choice of treatment option, and (b) considerations of long term growth of community size may affect the choice of treatment (i.e., POE vs. central treatment).


A practical approach to membrane ageing: A Canada-wide collaboration with water treatment plants

Presenter: Shona Robinson, M.Sc.University of British Columbia

Additional Contributors: Pierre Berube, P.Eng., Ph.D., University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC

Membrane filtration is a rapidly expanding choice for water treatment. However, there is limited data to explain the long-term changes (ageing) in membranes. Lab-based ageing studies found that chemical cleaning degrades membranes over time. However, research also indicates that lab-aged membranes show starkly different ageing behavior than membranes in full-scale use. It is infeasible to perform ageing tests in the lab that incorporate all aspects of full-scale membrane operation. The project presented here involves collaboration with 10 membrane plants from across Canada, contributing membrane fibers of varying ages. By characterizing the long-term changes in the fibres, we were able to postulate how and why membranes age during normal use.This project takes a practical perspective, focusing on how membrane performance changes during ageing. As performance factors - namely fouling rate, cleaning rate, resistance, and breach potential -decline, membranes must eventually be replaced. As well as quantifying performance factors, membranes’ physical and chemical characteristics were monitored, to explain the mechanism of performance changes. By forming an understanding of the four performance factors’ contributions, ideas for adjusting operation to improve these factors are presented.For the 2015 BCWWA conference, the outcomes of the first year of this project will be presented. As our partner facilities have membranes ranging in age, the ageing process is already captured in our results. Beyond the membrane community, this presentation will appeal to water professionals who would like to learn about how collaboration with researchers can benefit both parties.


10:45 - 11:15 am 1:45 - 2:15 pm


Sechelt Water Resource Centre – Creativity from idea to outcome

Presenter: Paul Nash, Ph. D.District of Sechelt

Additional Contributors: Sechelt WRC Operations Supervisor, Sechelt, BC; Larry Sawchyn, P.Eng., Tetratech, Richmond, BC; Jean Lambert, PMP, M.B.A., MHPM, Vancouver, BC; Andrew Ambrozy, Maple Reinders, Kelowna, BC; Marie Meunier, Veolia, Montreal, QC; Urban Systems, BC.

The District of Sechelt is a growing community of 9,500 people on the Sunshine Coast. The District is committed to sustainable development. When its two wastewater treatment plants needed replacing to meet capacity and quality demands, the District saw an opportunity to maximize value from a hitherto wasted resource. This resulted in distinct project objectives:

• Highest level effluent quality – Indirect Potable Reuse – to enable the widest range of reuse possibilities;

• Biosolids processing to a Class A product;• Innovation in the treatment process, and the

project in general;• A focus on maximizing the value delivered -

social, environmental and financial – instead of minimising costs;

• A welcome neighbour – noiseless, odourless, and aesthetically pleasing; and

• Highly energy efficient and meet LEED Gold

The District’s approach to meeting these objectives embodied creativity throughout, from identifying needs through keeping the project on-track, to commissioning and handover. This presentation will review the project from start to end, including results from the first few months of operation. This is your chance to discover how pushing the boundaries worked out for Sechelt.


City of Richmond: Out of the box ready solution results in easy migration mobile to AMI

Presenter: Corrine Doornberg, City of Richmond

Additional Contributors: Angela Zapp – Director Service Business, Neptune Technology Group; Darlene McNichol - Product Manager, Neptune Technology Group

Deployment of ready-to-use, out of the box radio frequency endpoints by the City of Richmond has resulted in the transition, expansion and advancement of their water meter system from a mobile technology to an AMI solution. In 2004, the City designed a multifaceted water management and metering strategy. A volunteer residential water metering program was developed to respond to the public’s demand for equitable water billing. The popularity of the program generated enough demand for the City to expand its program in 2010 to add volunteer multi-family metering, and by 2013 the City achieved an impressive 70% residential install base. This critical mass created the foundation that justified a five-year mandatory universal metering program in 2014 and encompassed all remaining unmetered accounts. The deployment and integration of enhanced leading edge technology allows the City to easily migrate to fixed network AMI at their own pace. This session is ideal for those who would like to gain a better understanding of the factors that contributed to the success of the Richmond AMI program. Topics to be examined will include:

• Overview of the City’s drivers for advancing to AMI technology;

• Review project objectives and progress against those objectives;

• Outline the City’s easy migration strategy;• Demonstrate the benefits and ease of installation

at existing SCADA sites;• Explore plans for future expansion; and• Showcase case data and scenarios.

This session is also pertinent to communities of all sizes and is highly relevant to utilities with varying degrees of metering and reading technology.


10:45 - 11:15 am

14 15



Closed vessel UV - more than just for drinking water

Presenter: Patrick Bollman, P. Eng.Engineered Treatment Systems (ETS), LLC.

Ultraviolet (UV) disinfection is now a standard feature in many wastewater utilities. UV has also been adopted by the drinking water community as a barrier against chlorine tolerant species such as Cryptosporidium and Giardia. The technology is widely favored due to its non-chemical nature, the fact that no subsequent dechlorination process is required, and its ability to be unselective in disinfection performance. Throughout the years, the focus in municipal wastewater is to install UV in an open channel. However, there are alternative solutions to achieve required disinfection. The presentation will focus on the following aspects:

• UV fundamentals (UV 101) – what is UV; how is UV light generated; what UV does and how it works; how organisms respond to UV; and a comparison of available lamp types.

• Equipment selection – what manufacturers will require to provide an adequately sized system including flowrates (peak, average and minimum); water quality (transmittance – how much light passes through the water, soluble iron and manganese, hardness, TSS); required disinfection/dose and existing plant hydraulics.

• Introduction to closed vessel UV technology for treatment of municipal wastewater and reuse.

• Benefits of closed vessel UV for disinfection including: installation savings and flexibility, reduced maintenance, and improved safety.

The purpose of this presentation is to give engineers and municipalities information regarding other forms of successfully operating ultraviolet disinfection systems instead of designing around the “traditional open channel” types of UV disinfection.

STREAM 6: BUILDING RESILIENCESkaha room, Delta Grand

Using sequencing batch reactor (SBR) technology to cost effectively accommodate future biological nutrient removal requirements

Presenter: Steve GreenXylem Inc.

Additional Contributors: Scott Mulinix, P. Eng., Brown Deer, WI

This presentation demonstrates the flexibility of the Intermittent Cycle Extended Aeration System (ICEAS) to adapt to future biological nutrient removal (BNR) requirements in a cost effective manner. In 1999 the Rock Creek Public Sewer District (RCPSD) selected a new treatment system to consolidate treatment capacity while planning for future growth. The ICEAS technology was chosen on the basis of footprint, peak flow capacity, and BNR efficiency. The ICEAS process is a modification of the sequencing batch reactor (SBR), allowing continuous inflow of wastewater into the treatment basins during all phases of the cycle.The new facility was commissioned in 2004 with average flow and peak flow capacity of 4.8 and 16.7 MGD respectively. Initially, RCPSD was required to meet BOD5, TSS, and NH4-N limits, but future requirements of total nitrogen (TN) and total phosphorus (TP) removal were anticipated. With future nutrient removal expectations, the ICEAS reactor and supporting equipment were designed to accommodate the more stringent requirements. Installing all of the equipment initially was not necessary as effluent TN and TP limits were relaxed for the first six years of operation. In 2010, the district added mixers and the treatment cycle was modified with alternating periods of aeration and anoxic mixing during the react phase to address TN and TP limits. After upgrading, the RCPSD WWTP produced effluent below expected future permit limits, while maintaining exceptional BOD5, TSS and NH4-N removal.


1:45 - 2:15 pm


Master planning, reinvestment planning and financial planning: the combination that worked for the District of Squamish

Presenter: David Roulston, P.Eng.District of Squamish

Additional Contributors: Clive Leung, P.Eng., Opus DaytonKnight Consultants, North Vancouver, BC

The District of Squamish’s Asset Management Plan has estimated that Asbestos Cement (AC) watermains in the District are expected to have 10 years of remaining service life and compose of 70% of its water system. A significant infrastructure spending gap was identified. The District retained Opus DaytonKnight to prepare a Water Master Plan with these primary objectives:

1. Develop a comprehensive capital expenditure budget that addresses the needs of new residents and the infrastructure gap;

2. Review utility finances and develop sustainable funding including updating an outdated water rate structure;

3. Prepare a water conservation program; and 4. Recommend a water metering strategy.

A Risk Assessment that sought to address the initial infrastructure gap was carried out. Opus DaytonKnight reviewed the criticality of replacement of AC watermains which moved beyond theoretical age based assessments to real and tangible condition and performance-risk based assessments of reinvestment need. This was achieved through inclusion of break history records and balanced responses to consequences of asset failure. A field testing program and revisions to asset repair logging were also recommended to improve estimates of remaining service lives of these assets and future revisions of the risk assessment approach.A 25-year Capital Plan summarized capital infrastructure projects required through growth and reinvestments needed for AC watermain replacements. A Financial Plan concurrently prepared considered borrowing capacities and debt servicing limits of the utility to inform the District of required water rate increases needed to finance the water utility going forward for the next 25 years.


Co-digestion programs: Experiences from planning through implementation

Presenter: Christopher Muller, Ph.D., P.E.(WA)Brown and Caldwell

Additional Contributors: Ian McKelvey, P.E.(WA), Brown and Caldwell, Seattle, WA

Utilities in North America have instituted the co-digestion of organic wastes, such as food waste, fats, oils and grease, to achieve a number of fiscal and environmental goals. Co-digestion can benefit a utility through increased revenues, carbon emissions reductions, utilization idle capacity, and renewable energy production. The implementation of programs like these can be a real benefit, but also can present challenges. These challenges can range from the technical to the logistics of actually implementing a program. Examples include:

• Competitive market conditions.• Significant infrastructure requirements.• Under defined process impacts and limits.• End product integrity, biosolids characteristics.• Energy market conditions.• Carbon emissions reduction goals.• Digester process conditions.

This presentation will cover the lessons learned from the earliest planning stages through, design and implementation of multiple co-digestion projects across North America. Experiences from projects looking a food waste, FOG and other organic wastes will be presented. As an example, the value of a market study will be discussed, a utility identified through a market study that a co-digestion facility they wanted to construct at their plant would not be utilized by haulers in the region, potentially avoiding a stranded capital investment. Other utilities operating FOG receiving programs have experienced significant grit issues, leading to wear on equipment and deposition in tanks, a consideration for designers and operators alike. The specific challenges faced utilities trying to implement a program will be different, but the lessons learned by others can help avoid some potential pitfalls and provide relevant solutions.


1:45 - 2:15 pm

16 17



Lessons learned & benefits of Metro Vancouver’s technical training and procedures (TTAP) multi-year project

Presenter: Lucy Cotter, P.Eng., M.A.Sc.CH2M HILL

Additional Contributors: Tameeza Jivraj, P.Eng., Metro Vancouver, Burnaby, BC; Rhonda Harris, MBA, PE, CH2M HILL, Dallas, USA; Bryan Krafchik, CH2M HILL, Burnaby, BC; Melodie Hobbs, CET, CH2M HILL, Burnaby, BC

Metro Vancouver is showing regional leadership by investing in British Columbia’s largest water and wastewater municipal project to directly address the need for Metro Vancouver-specific technical training and procedures documentation.After two years of Metro Vancouver’s 5-year project to address organizational resiliency through knowledge capture and creation of technical training materials and procedures, lessons learned include: benefits of program planning activities; building support within the organization through early delivery of training materials; stakeholder engagement; and benefits of building standard templates and workflow processes.Benefits of the knowledge capture and competency-based training materials observed so far include: eLearning training prior to commissioning activities greatly appreciated by operators; standardization of procedures and knowledge checks across multiple operator teams; detailed safety review of procedures; and building organizational resiliency to staff retirement or staff turnover. In parallel to delivery of training materials identified for Metro Vancouver’s existing infrastructure, the project team is building the framework for continued updates to training materials, as well as the framework for training materials related to any new capital projects, i.e. making the project sustainable well into the future. The project team is also developing methods to measure the long term benefits of the project to Metro Vancouver, including risk mitigation.The project results, lessons learned and training materials are scalable for large and small municipalities, and are of interest to management, engineering, and maintenance and operations personnel.


Securing remote access to water & wastewater critical infrastructure

Presenter: Zane Spencer, P.Tech.(Eng.)MPE Engineering Ltd.

Process control systems are utilized throughout water treatment, water distribution, wastewater collection, and wastewater treatment systems. Many of these systems provide remote access to operators, engineers and vendors who, through varying levels of interaction, can enhance their day-to-day job functions. Concerns regarding the cyber security of these remote access schemes have emerged as a result of an increase in the number of reported security vulnerabilities in industrial process control system components.The presentation will discuss:

• Current concerns regarding cyber security of process controls systems.

• Typical requirements for remote access to process control systems.

• Industry best practices for developing remote access schemes.

• Common factors which should be considered when developing remote access schemes.

Additionally, the presentation will provide examples of a remote access scheme for a small, medium and large process control system. Each example will outline the specific connection methods for various groups of users as well as the security considerations implemented in the different control systems.


2:15 - 2:45 pm


Nanaimo reservoir No.1 and energy recovery facility

Presenter: Lewis Macrae, P.Eng.Associated Engineering

The City of Nanaimo is embarking on a major water treatment upgrade program. This program will include the construction of a new water treatment plant and water storage reservoir. Due to the elevation difference between the water treatment plant and the distribution system, water entering the new reservoir has significant excess hydraulic pressure.The City has long recognized the potential for hydraulic energy recovery at the existing reservoir and as such was keen to incorporate energy recovery in the design of the new reservoir No.1 facility. As the City’s lead engineer for the overall program of upgrades, Associated Engineering devised a concept whereby traditional function of reservoir control valves could be combined with the installation of hydraulic energy recovery equipment.This presentation will describe the typical requirements for hydraulic energy recovery systems and how these systems were integrated into the control philosophy for the City’s new reservoir.The presentation will refer to the hydraulic analyses and feasibility exercises undertaken during the preliminary and detailed design phases of the project. Construction of the Energy Recovery Facility started in March 2013 and was commissioned in April 2014. The presentation will incorporate analysis of data obtained during the year of operation and will discuss potential operational modifications which may increase the energy capture and revenue potential of the facility.


Clinton water treatment plant - High level water treatment for small communities

Presenter: Dave Underwood, P.Eng.TRUE Consulting

Additional Contributors: Don Burgess, P.Eng., DWG Process Supply Ltd.

The Village of Clinton is a small rural community located in the interior of BC between Cache Creek and 100 Mile House. With a population of approximately 650 residents, the Village has limited available resources in terms of taxation revenues. As such, the implementation of capital improvements to its water system is extremely challenging. The Village relies upon surface water from Clinton Creek for its potable water supply. Treatment has historically consisted of chlorination for primary disinfection and therefore did not achieve 4-3-2-1-0 compliance.The Village acquired 100% contribution infrastructure grant funding assistance in the amount of $2.4M in 2013 under the Gas Tax General Strategic Priorities Fund program. The project involved implementing water treatment improvements with the objective of achieving Interior Health’s filtration deferral criteria.During the predesign stage it was determined that implementation of microfiltration was feasible from a capital cost perspective, thereby providing opportunity for the Village to achieve not only its current treatment needs for organics reduction, but its ultimate water treatment requirements, all in one stage. Using chemical precipitation as pretreatment for organics reduction and relying upon the microfiltration process for solids and bacteria removal, the Village was able to achieve 4-3-2-1-0 compliance guidelines within available budget allocations.This project illustrates that small communities can apply membrane filtration technology in an affordable way to attain their water treatment objectives. In addition, carefully applied public consultation and procurement methods provide opportunity for a small community to achieve a streamlined construction stage with reduced capital costs.


2:15 - 2:45 pm

18 19



Life cycle optimization

Presenter: Catherine Dallaire, P.Eng.Opus DaytonKnight Consultants Ltd.

Additional Contributors: Bernadette O’Connor, NZCE, Opus, Victoria, BC

Finding the right mixture and timing of investments to deliver on service levels, yet stay within the fiscal constraints, is a complex question. What type of rehabilitation should be done, where, and when to minimize overall expenditure. Least life cycle cost requires decision makers to evaluate many alternatives to maximize the value, level of service, and risk profile of their infrastructure. Various approaches have been used to assess long term rehabilitation needs and develop capital plans. Historically, the “worst-first” approach to rehabilitation has often proved to be far from optimal. Other methods try to approximate the best return within the current year’s investment. Life Cycle Optimization (LCO) seeks to maximize the benefit of investment across the entire infrastructure portfolio over a long term horizon. If your investment solution is to be the least life cycle cost, it has to consider alternative combinations of investment and timings over a long term time horizon. The LCO methodology generates a multi-periodic linear programming matrix which describes every potential choice over the entire planning horizon and then solves for the mathematical optimal solution. It selects the best choice based on management criteria, an objective function and constraints. This approach results in selecting only strategies that offer the best benefit for the level of investment over the analysis period. It maximizes infrastructure investment outcomes. This paper focuses on the application of LCO for strategic municipal infrastructure planning by examining how this advanced asset management decision making approach was applied on drainage and wastewater treatment assets in Halifax.


Heat-seeking sewer model

Presenter: Yuko Suda, P.Eng.Kerr Wood Leidal Associates Ltd.

Additional Contributors: Genevieve Tokgoz, P.Eng., Metro Vancouver, Burnaby, BC

A significant amount of renewable heat flows through Metro Vancouver’s sanitary sewers each day as warm sewage. This excess energy can be recovered and used to heat buildings and is an economical means of displacing natural gas and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The increasing interest in recovering sewage heat for space heating and cooling led to a study to determine the viability and implications of implementing sewage heat recover projects in Metro Vancouver.A key concern for sewage heat recover projects was how much heat can safely be recovered without endangering sewage treatment processes, both now in the future. In order to address this concern, the Heat-Seeking Sewer Model was developed. The Model calculates the sewage flow rate and associated sewage temperature at nodes within the sanitary sewer network. The sewage heat capacity throughout the system is calculated by tracking the flows and temperatures of each sewage component (base sanitary flow, inflow, and infiltration) separately. The model can be adjusted to account for seasonal variations of each variable, population growth, and water/energy conservation measures. The Model results show that there is plenty of heat in the sewer system to heat homes. Up to 100 MW of recoverable heat is available across the region, enough to heat about 650 to 1,000 high-rise buildings. Although this Model was applied to Metro Vancouver, it can be deployed in any sewer collection system, enabling widespread implementation of sewage heat recovery projects and effective management of the underlying sewage systems.


2:45 - 3:15 pm


BC policy on point of use and point entry water treatment: An assessment and progress report

Presenter: Mohammed DORE, Ph.D.Brock University and Res’eau-Waternet

In BC, from 2001 to 2012, there were 20,749 reported Cryptosporidium cases, 8,162 cases of Giardia and 1671 Shiga toxigenic E. coli cases (BC Centre for Disease Control, 2010 and 2012). Almost all of these outbreaks continue to be in small communities. Many of the small systems are under Boil Water Notices, mainly due to lack of treatment. One alternative is to promote the use of Point of Use (POU) or Point Entry (POE) treatment. In this presentation we review the regulatory requirements in BC for the use of POU/POE that requires that 100% of the communities sign a service agreement, which raises costs. We review the progress that has been made in the Interior Health Authority and its “Small Systems Strategy” and action plan. We consider one case study where the community remains on a Boil Water Notice, but part of the community uses POU/POE. We consider the implications of allowing that sort of flexibility whereby a household could “go it alone.” Many POU systems with NSF certification # 53 and 55 are affordable, with light maintenance.Finally we attempt to assess the current progress in enhancing water safety in the Interior Health Authority both through POU/POE and the new strategy of “engagement and outreach.” One indicator of progress is the number of Boil Water Notices, which in part is due to more water systems being covered by the data. We show what progress has been made so far and what remains to be done.


Ranking the toxicity of drinking water contaminants as a prelude to the choice of point-of-use and point-of-entry treatment devices

Presenter: Mohammed Dore, Ph.D.Brock University and Res’eau-Waternet

Additional Contributors: Prof. Andrew Laursen, Department of Biology & Chemistry, Ryerson University, Toronto, Ontario

Point-of-Use (POU) and Point-of-Entry (POE) treatment devices with NSF classification numbers 42,53,55, 58 and 401 are now available that could enhance the multiple barrier approach to drinking water treatment. NSF # 401 is capable of removing most micro-pollutants such as pharmaceuticals and endocrine disrupters. The objective of this research is to provide households, with and without centralized water treatment, information on the choice of such devices.While the choice for specific locations would depend on their source of raw water, some generalized information on the ranking of toxicity of contaminants would be beneficial. Accordingly, we develop a metric of the toxicity of priority contaminants following the method used by the US Center for Disease Control’s Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry. Their prioritization is risk-based, with risk calculated as a function of geometric mean concentrations in media of exposure (air, water and soil), and relative toxicity, incorporated into the calculation as a categorical factor score. Here, we present a revised priority list based upon drinking water as the sole route of exposure, following the procedure of CDC but excluding soil and air as routes of exposure. We use this to determine the 10 highest-priority chemical contaminants in each of several categories (inorganics, volatile organic contaminants, and synthetic organic contaminants). We then test various point-of-use (POU) devices in the marketplace to determine their efficiency for removal of these highest priority contaminants. We present an assessment of relative cost versus efficiency for common POU devices.


2:15 - 2:45 pm 2:45 - 3:15 pm

20

43RD BCWWA ANNUAL CONFERENCE & TRADE SHOW PANEL SESSIONS | Delta Grand

• British Columbia Guidelines (Microbiological) for Maintaining Water Quality within Distribution Systems – Secondary Disinfection

• Drinking Water Treatment Objectives (Microbiological) for Ground Water Supplies in British Columbia version 1

• Guidance Document for Determining Ground Water at Risk of Containing Pathogens (GARP) version 2

• New requirements for private water utilities under the

Water Utility Act and the Utilities Commission Act. Join this panel and get informed about the recent and

upcoming changes to the way water is sustainably managed

in BC.

FINANCIAL SUSTAINABILITY OF OUR WATER AND WASTEWATER SYSTEMSVaseaux / Kootenay room, Delta Grand

Moderator: Anna Warwick Sears, Executive Director,

Okanagan Basin Water Board

Panelists: David Hendrickson, REFBC; Brian Bedford, Ministry

of Community, Sport & Cultural Development;

John Weninger, Urban Systems; Kevin Van Vliet, City of

Kelowna

How will your utility fund and finance its future operations

and development? What is your organization doing

to enhance the financial sustainability of our water &

wastewater systems?

Join this panel of distinguished experts to discuss the barriers

to financial sustainability for communities, and examples of

success stories from across BC.

LEGAL CONSIDERATIONS IN DEVELOPING A RISK RESILIENT UTILITYShuswap room, Delta Grand

Moderator: Don Dobson, Urban Systems

Panelists: Ms. Deborah Carlson, West Coast Environmental

Law; Ms. Sonia Sahota, Valkyrie Law Group; Ms. Christina

Yamada, Interior Health

How does your utility minimize its risk and maintain high

quality service through varying circumstances? What does

your utility need to take into account to ensure it complies

with applicable legislation and guidelines, or manage its

exposure to liability?

Join this panel of legal and professional experts to learn

more about what your utility could, or should, be doing to

minimize its risk.

COMMUNICATING THE VALUE OF WATERSkaha room, Delta Grand

Moderator: Kellie Garcia Bunting, Environmental Planner,

Associated Engineering

Panelists: Melanie Goetz, Hughes & Stuart Marketing; Linda

Kelly, Sr. Director, Association Engagement & Governance;

Tanja McQueen, CEO, BCWWA

What can communities do to help the public and elected

officials to better understand the value of their water and

wastewater infrastructure, so that they support full cost

pricing and reinvestment in asset renewal?

Join this panel for a presentation of current campaigns,

and an interactive discussion about effective strategies to

communicate the value of water.

SUSTAINABLE WATER AND WASTEWATER SYSTEMS – A GLOBAL VIEWCascade / Cassiar room, Delta Grand

Moderator: Robert Haller, Executive Director, CWWA

Panelists: Mr. Gene Koontz, incoming President of AWWA,

and Senior Vice President with Gannett Fleming; Mr.

Paul Bowen, incoming President of WEF, and Director of

Sustainable Operations for Coca Cola;

Dr. Anna Robak, Technical Principal with Opus International’s

Global Asset Management Team, based in New Zealand

“Sustainable” water and wastewater infrastructure provides

safe and reliable services today and in the future, balancing

fiscal and human resources with level of service, to protect

public health, the environment, and economic well-being.

Join our panel of esteemed international utility management

leaders, including the incoming Presidents for AWWA and

WEF, for a thought provoking discussion about what it takes

to successfully integrate sustainability principles into utility

management, in both public and private sector settings.

WINDOW ON VICTORIA – GOVERNMENT UPDATES ON WATER POLICY AND REGULATIONPennask / Skeena room, Delta Grand

Moderator: Colwyn Sunderland, CWWA Director

Panelists: Ms. Lynn Kriwoken, BC Ministry of Environment; Mr.

Steve Baumber, BC Ministry of Health; Ms. Elena Oliphant, BC

Ministry of Forests, Lands & Natural Resource Operations

BC’s regulatory landscape is changing for water systems. This

panel will present updates and answer your questions about:

• The new Water Sustainability Act.• Recent changes to water quality and ground water

documents:


3:30 - 5:00 pm


Experiences from using ion exchange resins for organic removal

Presenter: Mohammad Mahdi Bazri, M.A.Sc. , Ph.D. CandidateUniversity of British Columbia

Additional Contributors: Dr. Madjid Mohseni

Anionic ion exchange (IEX) process is a feasible, robust, and effective technology for the removal of disinfection by-product precursors such as natural organic matter (NOM) as well as inorganic anions (e.g., NO3-) from surface waters. With its excellent performance and simplicity of operation, IEX has been increasingly considered and implemented in water treatment plants of various sizes (municipal to small communities). However, its wide application is challenged by potentially costly regeneration of spent resin, a step that is required to maintain the resin performance through multiple cycles. Studies evaluating IEX resins for NOM removal generally lack a comprehensive picture assessing different resins in terms of NOM removal efficiency, long-term operation, and regeneration efficiency.In this work, we have tested a number of strongly basic and weakly basic anion exchange resins from several manufacturers and assessed their long term performance against different water qualities through evaluation of removal capacity. Two different regeneration strategies using brine and caustic solutions were used to assess the regeneration efficiency of resins. Also, other operation considerations such as optimum contact time, resin amount, etc., were investigated. Resin performance in terms of DOC removal and regeneration efficiency was found to be influenced by water source, resin characteristics, operational mode (i.e., mixed or column), and regenerant choice and shall be considered and assessed when making decision on implementation IEX resins.


Building a water treatment plant for remote communities in cold environments

Presenter: Cheryl Gomes, M. Eng.BI Pure Water

Building a water treatment plant for a remote community with extreme weather conditions comes with a unique set of challenges. Kugaaruk, Nunavut is the location of the coldest wind chill ever recorded in Canada (-92°C, 1975). BI Pure Water and Williams Engineering delivered a package plant to Kugaaruk for the Government of Nunavut in 2013. The source water is a manmade reservoir along a river, 2km northeast of the Arctic Ocean. The river surface is frozen most of the year, and when it does thaw, there are very high levels of sediments and dissolved minerals. Functionality in subzero temperatures, reliability and mobility were key objectives. Positioning the intake involved a careful balance between avoiding the river surface (which freezes) and avoiding near-bottom layers (which may consist of dense sea water during high-tide surges into the river). The plant includes two independent parallel treatment trains (dual intake/cartridge filtration/UV/chlorine) for redundancy, and a truckfill system used for water delivery to each home’s storage tank in the 750-person community of Kugaaruk. Traditional pipe distribution systems cannot be installed due to extensive permafrost and frost heaving. The plant enclosure is insulated with 4” polyurethane panels and steel-lined for bullet proofing to accommodate hunting lifestyles. The plant was manufactured at BI Pure Water in Surrey and shipped via Canadian Coast Guard ice breakers, during their annual delivery to Kugaaruk. This presentation will outline numerous ongoing challenges associated with this project, and how all parties collaborated to proactively evaluate and overcome each one.


2:45 - 3:15 pm

21

22 23

CONNECT RESPECT PROTECT

STREAM 4 STREAM 5 STREAM 1 STREAM 2 STREAM 9Sustainable Utility

ManagementBuilding Public Support

for WaterSmall Water Systems

Ensuring Water Quality & Supply

Other

Room Vaseaux / Kootenay Skaha Shuswap Cascade / Cassiar Pennask / Skeena

ModeratorMike Homenuke, Kerr Wood Leidal

Jennifer Miles, Regional District of North

Okanagan

Colin Kristiansen, Kerr Wood Leidal

Michael Celli, AECOM

Wayne Wong, AECOM

1:30-2:00 pm Dealing with fugitive sewer odours resulting from municipal combined sewer separation programsYuko Suda, Kerr Wood Leidal

What you need to know about human behaviour when preparing service delivery strategiesAnna Robak, Opus DaytonKnight

Organic carbon removal – DBP compliant drinking water for ALL communitiesMadjid Mohseni, University of BC

Kamloops Sewage Treatment CentreMatthew Smith, Urban Systems

Harmonizing WSER and MWR: A status reportIan Cameron, Environment Canada and Justin Sabourin, BC Ministry of Environment

2:00-2:30 pm Transitioning to MMCD 2014 design guidelinesDavid Chan, MMCD

Public stakeholder communication can make or break your project – Case Study: The Mara Lake WTPJean Lambert, MHPM Project Leaders

Occurrence of viruses, other pathogens, and organic wastewater indicators, in seven First Nation Communities in Southern BCMarta Green, Summit Environmental Consultants

The BC Water Use Reporting Centre (BCWURC)Natasha Neumann

Don’t move a mussel – Protecting BC waters from the impacts of invasive speciesLisa Scott, Okanagan and Similkameen Invasive Species Society

2:30-3:00 pm Overview of the City of Regina’s WWTP upgrade/expansion as a P3 projectChris Baisley, Deloitte

Lessons learned – Using the integrated design process to carry-out a major planning study for the Lions Gate Secondary Wastewater Treatment Plant Project Definition ReportRichard Bitcon, AECOM

Ion exchange: Predicting NOM removal during drinking water treatmentHeather Wray, University of BC

Microcystins – occurrence and laboratory analysisRudy Pante, Plante H2O Consultant

Pharmaceuticals and personal care products as emerging contaminants of concern in municipal wastewaterKevin Barnard, Capital Regional District

3:15-5:00 pm Closing session and keynote – Adam Kreek, Mental toughness, teamwork and leadership stories of a death-defying ocean adventurer

EDUCATION SESSIONS | Friday May 29, 2015


ManagementEnsuring Water Quality

& SupplyBuilding Resilience


Stormwater Management


ModeratorCatherine Dallaire, Opus DaytonKnight

Colin Kristiansen, Kerr Wood Leidal

Jeff Phillips, IPEX

Chris Howorth, Veolia

Shelir Ebrahimi, University of BC

8:30-9:00 am Utility criticality assessment: An application of artificial neural network in asset managementAlexander Kolesov, AECOM

Transient analysis and design considerations for hydraulic pipelinesJonathan Funk, Kerr Wood Leidal

Performance of pipes during earthquakesCamille George Rubeiz, Plastics Pipe Institute

Design, construction and operation of water infrastructure using 3D design toolsWalt Bayless, Opus DaytonKnight

Victoria rainwater management standards: Now with DIYLaurel Morgan, Kerr Wood Leidal

9:00-9:30 am Dynamic field document management using portable technologyYariv Ben-Shooshan, Opus DaytonKnight

Legislative and regulatory tools for local governments to protect groundwaterRina Thakar, Valkyrie Law Group LLP

Adapting to climate change, one farm at a timeColwyn Sunderland, Kerr Wood Leidal

Overcoming common pumping pitfallsStephen Horsman, AECOM

Adsorbents for the removal of contaminants from stormwaterKarin Bjorklund, University of BC

9:30-10:00 am

Rate structure design and the universally metered water system: How and where to begin?Karyn Johnson, FCS GROUP

Transitioning from surface water to groundwater: The District of 100 Mile House water supply strategyRyan Rhodes, Western Water Associates

Incorporating seismic design into a large diameter steel water main in proximity to the Fraser RiverJoel Melanson, Metro Vancouver

Buried surprises and high pressures – A retrospective look at a UV retrofitTom Robinson Associated Engineering

Gutters, gardens, rooftops, and tapsDean Barrett, Canadian Association for Rainwater Management


ManagementEnsuring Water Quality

& SupplySmall Water Systems


Other


ModeratorChris O’Donnell,

AECOMStephen Horsman,

AECOMJonathan Funk,

Kerr Wood LeidalKevin Reilly,

H2O InnovationMike Brady,

AECOM10:15-10:45 am

Leveraging your SCADA system as a management/planning toolAdrian Vasiu, Opus DaytonKnight

Yellow flags and green thumbs: Two successful social marketing Initiatives in the KootenaysNeal Klassen, H2Okanagan Water Conservation

Beyond disinfection: Expanding the role of UV in drinking water for small systemsLaith Furatian, University of BC

Towards a wastewater treatment plant that generates “zero” excess sludgeRony Das, University of BC

Extracting practical information from climate change modelingMichael MacLatchy,Associated Engineering

10:45-11:15 am

Managing performance for small to medium sized water utilities: A component and system based approachHusnain Haider, University of BC Okanagan

River for life – Reducing urban pollutant loadings to Edmonton’s receiving watercoursesKerri Robinson, Urban Systems

Nutrient removal in cold climate lagoon systemsMerle Kroeker, Nelson Environmental

Pump performance and efficiency testing: Bridging the gap from speculation to knowledgeFabian Papa, HydraTek & Associates

Anaerobic digester design using linear motion mixerLeslie Nemeth, AECOM

11:15-11:45 am

The Sewage Recycling System (SRS) – Breaking new ground in wastewater treatment – “Presenting a sustainable, efficient and environmentally friendly approach to wastewater treatment”Van A. Ridout, Western Water Resources

Using hydraulic modeling to identify alternative water supply options during a planned supply main shutdown – A case study with the City of Powell RiverWerner de Schaetzen, GeoAdvice Engineering

Microbiological contaminant intrusion management in small water distribution systems: A simplistic approach for detection and protection with booster chlorinationNilufar Islam, University of BC Okanagan

NF-UF range membranes for drinking water treatmentJoerg Winter, University of BC

Stormwater treatment using ballasted flocculation, the north american experienceChris Howorth,Veolia

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CONNECT RESPECT PROTECT43RD BCWWA ANNUAL CONFERENCE & TRADE SHOW

STREAM 4: SUSTAINABLE UTILITY MANAGEMENTVaseaux / Kootenay room, Delta Grand

Utility criticality assessment: an application of artificial neural network in asset management

Presenter: Alexander Kolesov, M.Sc.AECOMAdditional Contributors: Jonathan Welke, P.Eng., Drainage Engineer, City of Kamloops

Accurate criticality assessment methodology can significantly reduce infrastructure maintenance and renewal budgets by focusing asset management practices only on critical assets. Application of Artificial Neural Network (ANN) methodology for criticality assessment can provide more precise and effective asset management decisions.ANN are universal and highly flexible models widely used in the fields of cognitive science and engineering. In asset management they can be used to replace traditional linear asset criticality models which are based on various input factors with predetermined weightings. A trained neural network can be thought of as an “expert” in the category of information it has been given to analyse.During the criticality workshop, an agreed list of inputs and their data sources for the criticality model, and a sample of asset criticality outputs have been determined for the City of Kamloops’ water, wastewater and drainage assets. These inputs and outputs were used to train an ANN model to determine the relationship and weightings of the various inputs and model the criticality outcomes in order to provide insight into the importance of various factors for assessing criticality, and allow the City to focus their efforts on improving the accuracy and confidence of these inputs.The advantage of this approach is that the criticality model can be re-tuned as the City’s priorities change in the future, and the model can be used for other asset types to provide a robust and objective methodology for determining criticality.

Friday, May 29, 2015

8:30 - 9:00 am


Transient analysis and design considerations for hydraulic pipelines

Presenter: Jonathan Funk, E.I.T.Kerr Wood Leidal Associates Ltd.

Understanding hydraulics is key to maximizing the value and design life of pipelines and associated infrastructure. One critical but often overlooked aspect of pipeline hydraulics is transient analysis. This includes modeling gradual or sudden changes to flow, and the (often) large pressure surges (“water hammer”) they can create.Jonathan will discuss the principals of transient analysis as it applies to water and wastewater pipelines, and provide a case study featuring the Skookum Creek Power Project’s hydro-power penstock. This 2,000 mm diameter penstock can move up to 9,900 L/s of water over 6 km with more than 300 m variation in elevation.

• How did steady state hydraulics affect the design?• How did transient analysis hydraulics affect

the design?• What are the causes of hydraulic transients and

what can be done to mitigate their impact?• What theory and data are required to conduct

transient analysis for industrial, commercial, or municipal applications?

Pump start/stop (including power failures) and sudden valve closures are the most common sources of hydraulic transients. For large diameter watermains, such as the case study presented, even modest variations in flow during day-to-day operation can have a dramatic impact on pipeline pressures.Understanding hydraulics is essential to maximizing the value of pipeline and pipe network infrastructure, which includes operation and maintenance over the duration of design life. One critical, but often overlooked, aspect of pipeline hydraulics is transient analysis. That is, the study of flow velocity and pressure variations over time. This often includes analyzing sudden starts and stops to flow, and the large pressure surges (“water hammer”) they can create.


Design, construction and operation of water infrastructure using 3D design tools

Presenter: Walt Bayless, P.Eng.Opus DaytonKnight Consultants Ltd.

Engineering design for most clients is still conducted using historical 2 dimensional drawing tools, even though Owners, Operators and Designers visualize the world in 3 dimensions. The necessary tools to design in 3D have been around for several decades and continually improving, but the implementation to the market has been slow. Over the past 10 years the tools necessary for the complete project implementation within a 3D environment have become applicable and cost effective for the majority of municipal projects. These tools include the ability to survey existing infrastructure using laser equipment which can generate a virtual model of the as-built facility, permitting a designer to work directly from existing conditions. Designers can utilize this model to incorporate new equipment or, for new facilities, build a model from the ground up. As the model is developed Owners and Operators can walk through the facility in a virtual environment, allowing a quick and concise visual understanding of the project. This approach also allows the design team to incorporate all major design disciplines into a single model which can then be used for conflict identification and resolution. As a model is constructed building information can be added to the incorporated databases. Such information can include pipe details, equipment model numbers, conditions and functional requirements. This holistic approach to infrastructure design opens up new options for understanding and implementation of projects.

STREAM 6: BUILDING RESILIENCEShuswap room, Delta Grand

Performance of pipes during earthquakes

Presenter: Camille George Rubeiz, MS, PEPlastics Pipe Institute

This paper will summarize the damage to water piping systems in the recent 5 earthquakes in Christchurch (2010- 2011), Chile (2011) and Japan (2011) and others. In seismic areas and for all critical water pipes, the U.S. and Canada need to re-evaluate the common practice of pipe replacements; in the absence of regulations, utilities and design engineers need to protect life and water system and specify a resilient, highly-ductile, continuous and self-restrained system as was successfully implemented and earthquake-tested in Christchurch. The earthquake data will be based on reports from the Water research Foundation, Cornell University and others. In addition, this data will be compared to previous work from ASCE, AWWA and others.

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Legislative and regulatory tools for local governments to protect groundwater

Presenter: Rina ThakarValkyrie Law Group LLPAdditional Contributors: Sonia Sahota, P. Eng., LL.B

This session will provide a broad review of some land use planning and regulatory tools that local governments could consider using in respect of regulating and protecting groundwater within their jurisdiction, such as regional growth strategies, official community plans, Aquifer Protection Development Permit Areas, Aquifer Protection Development Permit Approval Information Areas and bylaws to regulate waste and recyclable materials that may permeate groundwater.

STREAM 8: STORMWATER MANAGEMENTPennask / Skeena room, Delta Grand

Victoria rainwater management standards: Now with DIY

Presenter: Laurel Morgan, P.Eng.Kerr Wood Leidal Associates Ltd.Additional Contributors: Adam Steele, B.Sc., Stormwater Management Specialist, City of Victoria

The City of Victoria’s new stormwater utility program offers financial incentives to property owners who actively manage rainwater on-site with rain gardens, cisterns, bioswales, and other approved rainwater management methods. In developing the Rainwater Management Incentive Program, the City of Victoria developed case studies of rainwater management opportunities and issues on volunteer properties. With lessons learned from the case studies, the City developed standards for the design and implementation of Rainwater Management Methods. The City of Victoria Rainwater Management Standards provide guidelines tailored to the City’s characteristics, program goals, and chosen rainwater management criteria. They will be used as a basis for approvals, and to ensure Rainwater Management Methods are effective without the need for onerous performance monitoring. They are a departure from other existing guidance documents as they provide significant detailed guidance for homeowners who wish to construct their own Rainwater Management Methods, as well as minimum design requirements for professionals to meet the City’s rainwater management needs. The Standards offer do-it-yourself planning, simplified sizing and design, step-by-step construction guidance, and maintenance requirements. KWL and MDI worked closely with the City to ensure that the Standards provide the appropriate levels of detail needed for each audience. This presentation will describe the process of building Victoria’s Rainwater Management Standards and share the final product.

9:00 - 9:30 am


8:30 - 9:00 am


Adapting to climate change, one farm at a time

Presenter: Colwyn Sunderland, A.Sc.T.Kerr Wood Leidal Associates Ltd.Additional Contributors: Michelle Revesz, P.Eng., Kerr Wood Leidal, Burnaby, BC; Kathy Lachman, Business Development Officer, Economic Development Cowichan, Duncan, BC; Emily MacNair, Coordinator, BC Agriculture & Food Climate Action Initiative, Victoria, BC

Agriculture and water are inextricably linked. Producing crops, raising livestock and on-farm processing all have specific water requirements in terms of volume, quality and timing throughout the year. Field drainage and runoff must also be successfully managed to provide sufficiently dry soils for planting in spring, and to prevent adverse impacts on neighbouring properties and watercourses. In BC’s south coast region, climate change is expected to affect all aspects of agricultural water management. More extreme storm and drought events will increase the risks of crop losses and poor yields. Reduced snowpack at high elevations will reduce the availability of water for summer irrigation demands. New water management strategies will be required to cope with these changes. In 2013, Economic Development Cowichan and the BC Agriculture & Food Climate Action Initiative retained Kerr Wood Leidal to develop a water planning toolkit to pilot with producers in the Cowichan region. The project was intended to address a need for integrated water management for individual farms.This presentation will provide an overview of the Farm Water Planning Toolkit, including the results of initial piloting with Cowichan producers in fall 2014. Key opportunities for improving resiliency include: measuring and recording groundwater use and aquifer levels; preparing for the Water Sustainability Act; engaging neighbours in protecting and managing shared water resources; managing land use impacts; and sharing innovations.


Dynamic field document management using portable technology

Presenter: Yariv Ben-Shooshan, MBA, P.Eng.Opus DaytonKnight Consultants Ltd.Additional Contributors: Peter Seeley, B.Sc., Opus, Sherwood Park, AB.

Field crews and operators require up to date and available record drawings for a large variety of sites. Unfortunately keeping a personal library up to date with the most recent drawings in their field vehicle for easy access can prove to be a difficult task. With last minute changes, and the size and complexity of even small municipal infrastructure systems it’s difficult for the operators to have all the drawings and documents they might need with them in their vehicle. Portable technology has progressed to the point where field maps, drawings and additional documentation can be collected in a compact and portable tablet. Opus has been working with municipalities as well as private oil pipeline crews to develop a stable platform for the management of extensive libraries of as-built drawings and documents for field use. The system incorporates dynamic mapping (linked to GPS), drawing overlays for various infrastructure and related documents. This technology has been developed to allow field crews to pinpoint their location on a map, access all relevant documentation from technical drawings, to legal or regulatory documentation. This allows crews to have greater mobility, moving from site to site without having to stop to pick up drawings or documents. Through the use of tablets, the audience will be introduced to an easy-to-use system, and will be run through field scenarios to better understand the implications such technology can have for on-site information management.


9:00 - 9:30 am

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Adsorbents for the removal of contaminants from stormwater

Presenter: Karin BjorklundUniversity of British Columbia, Civil Engineering DepartmentAdditional Contributors: Loretta Li, P.Eng., Ph.D., Professor, UBC, Vancouver, BC

Contaminated urban runoff is a major cause of concern for water quality and aquatic ecosystems worldwide. Recent research shows that stormwater often contains metals and emerging organic contaminants at levels exceeding environmental quality standards. To comply with quality guidelines for receiving waters, stormwater treatment is considered to be critical. Filtration of stormwater through an adsorptive material is one of the most promising techniques for removal of particulate, colloidal and dissolved pollutants. The aim of this research was to use laboratory-based experiments to determine the removal capacity of selected sorbents for organic pollutants and metals found in stormwater. The ideal sorbent should be efficient in removing pollutants, inexpensive, abundant and easily accessible. A variety of materials, including minerals, wood- and bark-based media, were subjected to batch tests. By comparing the capacity of a range of sorbents under identical laboratory conditions, the most promising sorbent can be identified.The study revealed that cellulose and minerals adsorbed organic pollutants to a negligible degree. However, these materials may serve as efficient adsorbents of metals because of their potential to attract cations. Sawdust and bark efficiently and promptly sorbed organic compounds, whereas their capacity for metals was found to be low. Activated carbon produced from sewage sludge exhibited substantially higher adsorption capacity for organic pollutants than the wood- and bark-based media tested.


Overcoming common pumping pitfalls

Presenter: Stephen Horsman, P.Eng., P.E.AECOM

Pumping is an integral component of most municipal operations and often represents a significant operation and maintenance cost for a utility. Over the years, the pumping industry has seen several advancements that improve the efficiency and functionality of municipal pumping infrastructure – this is especially evident in the field of solids handling pumps. These advancements have resulted in a wide range of available pumping technologies and afford owners and operators the opportunity to reduce the maintenance, replacement and energy costs over the life cycle of their pumping infrastructure. In order to maximize the efficiency of pumping infrastructure, it is important to look at the pump system as a whole. Intake and discharge hydraulics, motor selection, material compatibility, maintenance requirements and accessibility can all impact the overall life cycle cost of pumping infrastructure. Left unchecked oversights during design and installation can result in premature equipment failure, increased maintenance frequencies, electrical and hydraulic inefficiency, and other potential impacts to the overall life cycle cost of the equipment. The start-up and commissioning process serves as the last line of defense to compare the installed performance with the design intent and root out potential equipment performance or layout issues. This presentation will review pumping fundamentals and highlight how to apply industry best practices from design through commissioning to optimize pump efficacy and efficiency. Recommendations offered within the presentation will be supported by case studies representing a range in municipal water and wastewater pumping applications.


9:00 - 9:30 am


Rate structure design and the universally metered water system: How and where to begin?

Presenter: Karyn Johnson, MBAFCS GROUP

This presentation will focus on the concepts, principals and best practices of utility rate-making. Emphasis will be placed on developing metered water conservation rate structures, including transition strategies to move from flat to metered rates. Through lecture and case study examples, this presentation will demonstrate the key considerations in rate design; water rate components (fixed and variable charges); alternative rate structure options (including applicability of use, advantages/disadvantages, etc.); implementation decision points, and potential implementation challenges and solutions when transitioning from flat to metered rates. Sample rate structures will be presented for a variety of customer types including agricultural, single family residential, multi-family residential, commercial, parks & irrigation, and other unique and/or large customer groups.


Transitioning from surface water to groundwater: the district of 100 mile house water supply strategy

Presenter: Ryan Rhodes, P.Geo.Western Water Associates Ltd.Additional Contributors: Phil Strain, Director of Engineering and Operations, District of 100 Mile House; Doug Geller, P.Geo., Western Water Associates Ltd., Vernon, BC; Dave Underwood, P.Eng., TRUE Consulting, Kamloops, BC.

The District of 100 Mile House presently obtains the majority of its water supply needs from Bridge Creek, augmented by groundwater from a single 175 metre deep well. In 2013, grant funding was awarded to complete comprehensive studies to guide long term water system planning. In light of evolving water treatment requirements and concerns over the security of the Bridge Creek source driven by land use and climate changes, increasing reliance on groundwater resources was identified as the preferred long-term water supply option. Detailed hydrogeological investigations were carried out, including confirmation of aquifer and well capacity, groundwater quality and assessing the feasibility of Aquifer Storage and Recovery.The aquifer sourced by the District of 100 Mile House is somewhat unique in BC. Analogous to the prolific Columbia River Basalts in the Northwestern United States, the aquifer forms in layered lava flows and is highly productive and characterized by good water quality. The aquifer is also secure: deep and isolated from the effects of land use at the surface, the source is not at risk of containing pathogens. This presentation outlines District’s plan for transition to increased reliance on groundwater, including the implementation of microbiological manganese removal, additional source development, and water treatment requirements in the context of the recently released Drinking Water Treatment Objectives for Groundwater Supplies in BC. The hydrogeology of the deep basalt aquifer will also be discussed, as little is known about this regionally extensive aquifer, yet to be heavily developed in Interior of BC.


9:30 - 10:00 am

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Buried surprises and high pressures – a retrospective look at a UV retrofit

Presenter: Tom RobinsonAssociated Engineering

In the Municipality of North Cowichan, the Boys Road pump station is used to supply up to 54 ML/d of groundwater to the community. The pump station is over 35 years old, and the Municipality wanted to upgrade the pump station, primarily to incorporate UV disinfection and expand the building. The addition of new water infrastructure provided the Municipality the opportunity to improve a number of other features, including more hydraulically efficient delivery of potable water, new electrical equipment and the addition of surge protection to the building.Water pressure within the building can exceed 200 psi. As UV reactors are conventionally rated to 150 psi, this would mark be the first UV system in North America operating at such high pressures. Additional caution was therefore needed.Typically retrofits to existing infrastructure lead to unexpected developments and this project was no exception. The Boys Road site had already gone several iterations of upgrades which led to a network of buried mains and conduits, some of which had been abandoned and forgotten. Inside the building, the interface between the old and new piping led to some challenges during construction, requiring creative design to resolve the issue efficiently without compromising functionality or the aesthetic inside the building.With construction complete, this presentation looks back at some of the solutions that were proposed for the pump station’s various challenges, and reflects on what did and did not work


Incorporating seismic design into a large diameter steel water main in proximity to the Fraser River

Presenter: Joel Melanson, P.EngMetro VancouverAdditional Contributors: Anthony Fuller, Golder Associates

In order to meet growing water consumption demands of the communities south of the Fraser River, Metro Vancouver is in the process of installing a new 1.5 metre diameter water main called Port Mann Main No.2 in Coquitlam, BC. Due to the steep slopes and low-lying peaty soil conditions along the proposed alignment and its proximity to the Fraser River, Metro Vancouver undertook a significant seismic analysis to estimate the vertical and lateral displacements that the new water main would be exposed to under the 1:2475 year seismic event. The seismic analysis was carried out using 1-D and 2-D ground response analyses and finite difference (FLAC2D) modeling of lateral displacements. Results indicate liquefaction in the upper 10-15 metres with significant vertical and lateral displacements. These soil movements were then used in conjunction with a finite element model of the pipeline to account for soil-structure interactions. The pipeline design was optimized to account for these forces. Results also indicated a differential movement of up to 4 metres between the water main and its connecting point to the seismically designed Port Mann Water Supply Tunnel. Innovative techniques using large diameter rotating ball joints and flexible expansions joints were incorporated into the design to account for this significant differential movement.


9:30 - 10:00 am


Beyond disinfection: Expanding the role of UV in drinking water for small systems

Presenter: Laith Furatian, Ph.D. CandidateUniversity of British Columbia - Department of Chemical and Biological EngineeringAdditional Contributors: Adrian Serrano, M.Sc. Candidate, UBC CHBE, Vancouver, BC; Madjid Mohseni, Ph.D., UBC CHBE, Vancouver, BC.

Production of microbiologically safe and aesthetically acceptable drinking water is challenging for small systems that rely on surface water. The application of ultraviolet radiation is an effective method of disinfection, particularly for chlorine resistant pathogens such as Giardia. UV can also be used to treat chemical contaminants that may have aesthetic or human health relevance. The use of Far-UV radiation produced from the same conventional UV lamps and a specially designed reactor can be used to degrade chemical contaminants such as naturally occurring algal metabolites that may be toxic or produce unacceptable taste and odor, as well as man-made substances such as pesticides. Water temperature and its composition such as total organic carbon (TOC), alkalinity, and chloride can influence the efficiency of such a process. In this presentation, we will discuss these factors and present results demonstrating treatability of contaminants of relevance for small surface water systems under water quality conditions found in the Pacific Northwest.


Gutters, gardens, rooftops, taps

Presenter: Ken Nentwig, B.L.A., M.L.A., CLP CLDCanadian Association for Rainwater Management (CANARM)

Rainwater Harvesting is getting a lot of news in Canada and across the globe. With climate change underway, drastic modification to current manners of dealing with water resources are being considered and implemented at the watershed scale. Site-specific solutions, and best practices for design and installation, require regulations, guidelines, and qualified personnel in order to develop and maintain a high standard of water quality and quantity. While Canadians use over one-third of their potable water supply for outdoor purposes where rainwater would serve just as well, additional proactivity in applying rainwater harvesting for flushing and other indoor uses is not only possible but viable. The capture of rainwater for infiltration or detention on site is a very positive flood-prevention strategy in stormwater management. Homeowners, landscape and irrigation specialists, roofers and gutter installers, will all be involved in this developing industry. Municipal, design, and professional decision-makers, along with the practitioners and DIY’ers, require guidance and expertise in best practices that utilize existing and new technologies. And the development of workable local regulations and parameters for the design and installation of systems, both in new developments and as retrofits, is essential. The Canadian Association for Rainwater Management (CANARM), its members and associates, are working in this direction, from the ground up, at the site level.


9:30 - 10:00 am 10:15 - 10:45 am

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Leveraging your SCADA system as a management/planning tool

Presenter: Adrian VasiuOpus DaytonKnight Consultants Ltd.Additional Contributors: Adrian Vasiu, Victor Wong

SCADA systems are primarily used by the Operations Department and very seldom used by Engineering or the Planning Group. Data collection devices strategically placed on important water / wastewater nodes can provide planners an insight on the overall system performance and will also allow them to:Improve water distribution by moving water from low to high demand areas

• Determine points of failure and take action before a breakdown

• Assist with leak detection and mitigate leaking water and costs of water lost

• Monitor Demand for the purpose of expanding the water and wastewater systems

• Provide data to automatically generate work orders from Computer Maintenance Management systems

• Generate reports for internal management review

• Generate external reports for government agencies responsible for oversight

Three key points will be discussed in this presentation:

1. Without accurate and good “easily retrievable” data, planning becomes a much more difficult function.

2. Historical data can be linked to CMMS programs to provide timely significant information on possible upcoming failures.

3. Live Historical data on flows and pressures will confirm water/sanitary modelling software.

Come and see how your Municipality can leverage your existing SCADA system to more than an Operations tool!


Yellow flags and green thumbs: Two successful social marketing initiatives in the Kootenays

Presenter: Neal Klassen, Masters in Environmental EducationH2Okanagan Water Conservation Ltd.

Almost every water provider has some form of watering regulations, but how many are actually enforced - and do they really work? Compliance is rarely measured and enforcement is often non-existent.In 2015 the Columbia Basin Trust’s Water Smart Program initiated a watering regulation education program in seven communities across the Kootenay region. From June to August, summer students in each community patrolled neighborhoods looking for residents and businesses irrigating outside of the allowed periods. When an “offence” was observed, the student placed a bright yellow flag on the front lawn. Printed on the flag were a telephone number and a link to the local regulations.This paper examines the surprising results and some unintended consequences of the program, which suggest that 1) water regulation bylaw enforcement can be simple and inexpensive; and 2) existing water regulations may not be the best fit for a community.The students who carry out the yellow flag initiative are part of a larger Water Smart Ambassador Program, which is cost-shared between Columbia Basin Trust and participating communities. In addition to distributing lawn flags, the students provide residential irrigation system audits. By making small changes and fine-tuning irrigation schedules, the students can reduce a homeowner’s irrigation by up to 50 per cent. The presentation will demonstrate how a suite of social marketing initiatives (water audits, yellow flags, etc.) can lower peak demand, helping to reduce overall water use and extend the life of existing water supply infrastructure.


10:15 - 10:45 am

STREAM 9: OTHERPennask / Skeena room, Delta Grand

Extracting practical information from climate change modelling

Presenter: Michael MacLatchy, Ph.D., P.Eng.Associated Engineering

Climate change modelling provides coarse scale estimates of the potential changes in climatic normals and extremes that will come about due to increasing atmospheric greenhouse gas concentrations. The output from these models is at least two steps removed from providing the information needed to make engineering decisions for adaptive actions and planning. Generally, to make use of climate model data a “down scaling” process is needed to relate the climate predictions made in coarse detail into climate data useable at a local scale. Even then, raw climate data is still an input to other processes, such as hydrologic modelling, in order to estimate the potential impacts to areas of direct interest. Possible examples included annual and seasonal water availability, or the occurrence of extreme flood events. Once a specific impact is quantified, appropriate adaption actions can be identified, whether engineering, policy or planning based.However, there are numerous climate change models producing output data from several emissions scenarios. The challenge then becomes identifying the most relevant scenarios, or considering the range of outputs. Over time, climate change estimates will vary as models evolve and emissions scenarios are deleted or added. Analysis based on 6-year old modelling could fall outside current estimates. By considering two hydrologic studies based on climate model estimates, these considerations will be illustrated.


Towards a wastewater treatment plant that generates “zero” excess sludge

Presenter: Rony Das, University of British ColumbiaAdditional Contributors: Eric R. Hall, P. Eng., Professor, Department of Civil Engineering, University of British Columbia

Excess sludge handling and disposal in conventional and advanced wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) account for 50 to 60 % of capital and operational costs. In addition, treatment and final disposal of treated sludge have serious environmental and social impacts. Therefore, it is the ultimate dream of a process engineer to design WWTPs that can eliminate sludge generation without impacting the treatment efficiency. A process has been conceptualized, using infinite sludge age, which manipulates solids retention time (SRT) of biomass to realize the “zero” excess sludge objective. An experimental program has been undertaken at the Staging Environmental Research Center (SERC) at the University of British Columbia, to explore the “zero” excess sludge concept. Preliminary results of the membrane-assisted enhanced biological phosphorus removal (EBPR) process operated at very long SRTs (25 days, 40 days, 60 days) show that biomass (sludge) yield was decreased by 17 % (0.30 g VSS/gCOD Vs 0.25 g VSS/g COD) with the increase of SRT from 25 days to 60 days. COD removal efficiency was found to be more than 85%, irrespective of process SRT. Effluent ortho-P concentration was less than 0.10 mg/L for all of the SRTs studied. Unlike EBPR process performance at normal SRT (12-20 days), the process showed increased stability in biological nutrient removal at higher SRTs. Initial results show promise for the design and operation of a future WWTP generating “zero” excess sludge.


10:15 - 10:45 am

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Nutrient removal in cold climate lagoon systems

Presenter: Merle Kroeker, P.Eng.Nelson Environmental Inc.

Nutrient enrichment or eutrophication of waterways is one of the most serious water quality issues in North America. Waste water treatment plants (WWTP) are one of the main point sources contributing to excessive nutrients (nitrogen and phosphorous) in lakes and rivers.Historically the majority of wastewater treatment plants, particularly ponds or lagoons, were not designed to remove nutrients. The current trend in North America is to place ammonia restrictions on WWTP effluent, requiring an increasing number of facilities (including lagoons) to have some element of ammonia-N removal. Over the past 15+ years Nelson Environmental has developed the OPTAER lagoon based wastewater treatment process. Traditionally the process has been designed to remove BOD and TSS from municipal and industrial wastewater. With the push towards nutrient removal, Nelson Environmental has adapted the SAGR (Submerged Attached Growth Reactor) process for ammonia removal in cold climates. Lagoon Phosphorus removal is accomplished by chemical addition and filtration. While Phosphorus removal is an established process, ongoing development work continues to lower chemical dosing requirements and improve removal efficiencies when utilizing the process to upgrade lagoon systems.This presentation will discuss the technologies that are integral to the OPTAER lagoon based treatment process, focusing on the SAGR ammonia and total nitrogen removal system case studies.


10:45 - 11:15 am


River for life

Presenter: Kerri Robinson, M.Sc., P.Eng.Urban SystemsAdditional Contributors: Kristel Untershultz, M.Sc., P.Eng., Urban Systems, Edmonton, Alberta

River for Life, a 30 year strategy initiated by the City of Edmonton, was developed with the mission to “[prevent] pollution by continuously reducing discharges of contaminants to the environment towards a goal of net zero impact from human activity.” In an initiative unique to North America, Edmonton seeks to exceed all existing regulatory requirements and accomplish vast reductions in pollutant loadings because they feel it is the best way to serve the population in the long run. Implementation plans were developed to guide the River for Life strategy over the next 30 years. Four foundational processes (Planning, Adaptive Management, Partnerships and Funding) were outlined to support implementation of discharge quality enhancement projects. Building on the foundational processes, the following implementation plans were developed to provide specific direction for reducing discharge pollutant loads to the North Saskatchewan River: Residential discharge, City sites discharge, Industrial-Commercial-Institutional discharge, Grey infrastructure improvements and Green infrastructure implementation.Through intensive stakeholder consultation, an Adaptive Management Plan, an Incentives Plan and a Triple Bottom Line Process were formed to lay the foundation for implementation of River for Life. The Adaptive Management Plan outlines the iterative process required to continually move River for Life forward in a dynamic municipality. The Incentives Plan consists of a review of incentives available to the City to support the River for Life mission. The Triple Bottom Line Process was developed and tested to evaluate and select programs and projects that will best meet the objectives of River for Life.


Pump performance & efficiency testing: Bridging the gap from speculation to knowledge

Presenter: Fabian Papa, M.A.Sc., M.B.A., P.Eng.HydraTek & AssociatesAdditional Contributors: Djordje Radulj, M.A.Sc., P.Eng., HydraTek & Associates; Bryan W. Karney, Ph.D., P.Eng., University of Toronto

Pumps are central to the supply and distribution of water and consume significant amounts of energy. Increased awareness of the importance of energy conservation coupled with the threat of increasing electricity prices has driven the need to look at the performance of pumps more closely. In particular, the measurement of energy-based performance indicators is being increasingly promoted and, together with it, the field testing of pumps to determine their actual operating performance characteristics and energy efficiency.This presentation will provide an overview of pump mechanics as a prelude to providing the results of more than 200 field tests, many of which were conducted as part of a targeted awareness program supported by the Ontario Power Authority Conservation Fund. The results illustrate that there is ample opportunity to reduce energy consumption and, accordingly, electricity costs through measures as simple as modifying operating protocols and, in some cases, through economically viable refurbishments. The presentation, in addition to elaborating on the testing results, will discuss the two testing methods available to utilities: (i) the conventional method; and (ii) the thermodynamic method. A review of benchmarking performance indicators will be reviewed and compared, including a metric developed based on the aforementioned testing program. As well, the testing of pumps pre- and post-refurbishment will be discussed, forming the basis for business cases supporting such interventions. The testing results were also used alongside an economic model to develop pump testing frequency guidelines which will also be discussed.


Managing performance for small to medium sized water utilities: a component and system based approach

Presenter: Husnain Haider, Ph.D.University of British Columbia (Okanagan)

Small to medium sized water utilities (SMWU) in Canada are facing serious challenges to meet broad sustainability objectives, because of lack of technical, human and financial constraints, and limited involvement and knowledge about the benchmarking process. In result, SMWU are unable to address the performance gaps of various functional components of water supply systems, including water resources, personnel, operational, quality of service, water quality and financial, and consequently rely on emergency response. A performance management model is developed for effective decision making. The model consists of a hierarchical based top-down approach; starting from overall sustainability performance objectives of the functional components at the top, followed by primary and secondary performance measures of the sub-components, and indicators (basic building blocks) receiving inputs from data/ decision variables at the bottom. The issues related to data scarcity are addressed by utilizing benchmarking data from larger utilities, peer-reviewed literature, and expert elicitation from local municipalities. In-UPM is robust enough to deal with temporal and spatial variations, i.e., it can assess the performance of a water utility as a whole and/ or different water supply systems operating within a utility for a given assessment period. The Simulink in MATLAB is used for fuzzy based modeling to deal with uncertainty issues. The results of implementing the proposed model for a case-study in the Okanagan Basin (British Columbia, Canada) reveal that it can be efficiently used for performance management of SMWU.


10:45 - 11:15 am

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Microbiological contaminant intrusion management in small water distribution systems: a simplistic approach for detection and protection with booster chlorination

Presenter: Nilufar Islam, Ph.D. CandidateUniversity of British Columbia OkanaganAdditional Contributors: Rehan Sadiq, Ph.D., P.Eng., Professor, School of Engineering, University of British Columbia Okanagan; Manuel J. Rodriguez, Professor, Laval University

Contaminant intrusion is possible in a distribution network (DN) if there is an available source of pathogen, a pathway- leakage, and a driving force- negative pressure. It can be catastrophic as the Walkerton tragedy in 2000, if secondary disinfection is not properly managed. However, secondary disinfection such as chlorination can create harmful disinfectant by-products (DBPs) when free residual chlorine (FRC) reacts with natural organic matter. The study represents a methodology to identify potential intrusion points in a DN, and to protect the system with proper booster chlorination after considering trade-offs between microbiological and DBP impacts and costs.A point scoring method is proposed to identify potential intrusion points inside a DN. A risk based framework was developed in this respect consists of information representing pollutant source: sanitary mains; pollution pathway: water main and surrounding soil conditions; consequence: population, and land use; and operational parameter: water main pressure. The methodology combines different sets of Geographical Information System (GIS) data and then, intrusion was modelled for E Coli O156: H7 using EPANET-MSX programmer’s toolkit. Location and dosage for booster chlorination were selected by optimization using Multi-Objective Genetic Algorithm (MOGA). Quantitative microbial risk assessment (QMRA) and traditional chemical risk assessment frameworks were adapted to estimate risk potentials. The methodology was implemented on the City of Kelowna (British Columbia, Canada) DN. The proposed methodology is limited to small DNs and can be adapted with common municipal inventory data.


Anerobic digester design using linear motion mixer

Presenter: Leslie Nemeth, M.A.Sc., P.Eng., FECAECOM CanadaAdditional Contributors: Mike Brophy, Nanaimo WWTP Plant Superintendent; Ben Loewen, Chilliwack WWTP Plant Superintendent

New anaerobic digesters were constructed at the Chilliwack and Nanaimo WWTPs. Unique features for the digester design are roof mounted linear motion mixers (LMMs), submerged roof design and hopper bottom floor layout. The design for the digesters maximizes use of the tank volume; reduces process energy needs and enhances biogas production. The LMM equipment along with sludge recirculation provides good mixing characteristics for sludge digestion at minimal energy usage and the LMMs combined with the submerged roof design improves overall efficiency in the production of biogas and reduction of volatile solids. The design also includes biogas collection pipework attached to a constant pressure/variable volume membrane gasholder to allow efficient and controlled usage of biogas and minimize flaring to atmosphere.The digesters presently operate as mesophilic digester at 37C and the design features include operating the digesters as thermophilic digesters at 55C as required in the future.The presentation will focus on the design aspects using LMMs and the submerged roof concept plus operational review after 2 years of service.

11:15 - 11:45 am


10:45 - 11:15 am


The sewage recycling system (SRS) - breaking new ground in wastewater treatment - “Presenting a sustainable, efficient and environmentally-friendly approach to wastewater treatment”

Presenter: Van A. Ridout,,P. Eng.Western Water ResourcesAdditional Contributors: Ali Roshanfekr, Ph.D., P. Eng., Western Water Resources (WWR) Inc., Calgary, Alberta

Wastewater treatment normally includes a combination of physical, chemical, and biological processes to remove contaminants. A new dimension to this is “Sewage Mining”. The Applied CleanTech Sewage Recycling System (SRS), recently introduced into Canada by BioForm Sewage Mining from Calgary Alberta, mines and extracts valuable resources from municipal sewage, recycling them into a high-quality, pasteurized cellulose-based product called RecylloseTM. It is a 100% renewable material, a profitable new commodity created from an endless untapped resource, which can be used as an additive in a broad range of industries, helping to offset the rapid depletion of natural cellulose resources.The SRS technology represents a major breakthrough toward solving an enormous environmental challenge…the reduction of harmful sludge and its associated high treatment and disposal costs.The innovative Sewage Recycling System is a compact, modular, “plug-and-play” recycling processor that could be easily adapted to virtually any wastewater treatment systems. It automatically and continuously extracts suspended biosolids contained in the wastewater stream before they become sludge. It then transforms them into Recyllose™. This is accomplished without restricting the flow to the wastewater treatment plant (WWTP). By preventing sludge production rather than treating it, the unique SRS technology substantially reduces the operating cost of the WWTP and increases the capacity (throughput) of the WWTP while adding to the global effort towards the reduction in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.


Using hydraulic modeling to identify alternative water supply options during a planned supply main shutdown – a case study with the City of Powell River, BC

Presenter: Werner de Schaetzen, P.Eng., Ph. D.GeoAdvice Engineering Inc.Additional Contributors: Andrea McCrea, E.I.T., GeoAdvice Engineering Inc., Port Moody, BC; Jeremy Sagebiel, B.Sc., City of Powell River, Powell River, BC; Frank D’Angio, AScT, City of Powell River, Powell River, BC

The City of Powell River, located on the Sunshine Coast of British Columbia, draws its potable water from Haslam Lake. Replacement of the existing supply main from Haslam Lake is required in the near future, which will isolate the main supply from the City water distribution system. In an effort to determine alternative supply options, GeoAdvice used the City’s most recent calibrated water model to simulate several supply options.Several alternative supply options were identified, centering on Powell Lake, which was formerly used by the City to supply a small area of the City distribution system. Using the City’s water model, GeoAdvice identified the hydraulic challenges posed by each alternative supply option. The infrastructure from Powell Lake was not designed to supply the entire City system; therefore, available flows were limited by the capacities of pumps, pipes, and storage. One of the recommendations made by GeoAdvice included “reversing” the flow direction of one of the City’s pump stations to back feed the main storage reservoir from the new supply. Based on the available flows and storage capacities of the Powell Lake pumping and piping system, GeoAdvice determined the City total demand and the available fire flows that the alternative supply option could provide. This presentation focuses on the methodology and assumptions employed in determining an optimal alternative supply option for the City of Powell River during the Haslam Lake supply main planned shutdown, as well as on how hydraulic models can be effective operational tools to plan a supply shutdown.

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Stormwater treatment using ballasted flocculation, the North American experience

Presenter: Chris Howorth, P.Eng.VeoliaAdditional Contributors: Christian Cabral, Daniel Lamarre

As we continue mitigating our impacts on the environment, tackling uncontrolled discharges of raw sewage during storm events becomes increasingly important. Control measures broadly divide into hydraulic retention approaches (e.g. flow control devices, retention ponds, tunnels etc.), and treatment approaches. Treatment ranges from screening to remove trash, through physical/chemical contaminant removal, to disinfection for pathogen control. Stormwater’s sporadic, intense nature makes contaminant removal particularly challenging. Ballasted flocculation technology (such as Veolia’s Actiflo™ process) are increasingly being applied to overcome these challenges, including in Western Canada. This paper presents the technology’s principles of operation, design considerations and performance. Full scale, North American installation experience will be presented. A recent innovation, combining physical/chemical treatment with high-rate biological treatment for soluble BOD removal, will also be presented. This paper summarizes how stormwater is being treated to secondary effluent quality in a compact, cost effective manner.


NF-UF range membranes for drinking water treatment

Presenter: Joerg Winter, Dipl.-Ing.The University of British ColumbiaAdditional Contributors: Pierre Bérubé, Ph.D., P.Eng., The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC

Membrane systems are an interesting alternative for small and remote systems for drinking water production. They offer high quality of treated water, robustness, high degree of automation, the possibility for remote control and are built as a modular systems. Compared to current UF systems, NF-UF range membranes offer a superior selectivity. They essentially completely reject protozoa and bacteria and remove viruses by greater than 4 log. In addition, they are very effective at removing organic matter. Hence, NF-UF range membranes can be implemented to control color, taste, odour, disinfection by-product formation potential and emerging synthetic organic contaminants. NF-UF range membranes can achieve all treatment requirements in one step. However, currently available systems that are capable of achieving contaminant removals as discussed above, require extensive pre-treatment and exhibit drawbacks regarding operation. This is mainly related to the fact that current NF systems are built in spiral wound configuration. The present study investigates fouling behaviour and optimal operating conditions for NF-UF range membranes operated in non-spiral wound configurations. Fouling and concentration polarization were quantified for different NOM components and membranes of varies pore sizes. Results suggest that concentration polarization due to NOM did not have a substantial effect on system performance. This can simplify system design and operation, since continuous hydraulic fouling control is not necessarily required. Further tests evaluate NOM rejection performance and various approaches to hydraulically mitigate NOM fouling in UF-NF range membranes.


11:15 - 11:45 am

STREAM 2: ENSURING WATER QUALITY & SUPPLYCascade / Cassiar room, Delta Grand

Kamloops Sewage Treatment Centre

Presenter: Matthew Smith, P.Eng.Urban Systems Ltd.Additional Contributors: Chris Town, M.A.Sc., P.Eng., Urban Systems Ltd., Kamloops, BC

The City of Kamloops has just started up their new plant after 16 years of planning and design. By maximizing the use of their existing infrastructure and challenging provincial regulations they have been able to save an estimated $42.5 M over a 20 year life cycle. The process of constructing the upgrades while maintaining the existing process presented some interesting challenges. This required prior planning, a high degree of coordination between Owner, Engineer and Contractor, advanced notification and regulatory approvals. Overall the project cost was approximately $40 M with the Building Canada fund, Green Municipal Fund and BC Hydro contributing $15.5 M, which kept the sewer utility rate increase to less than $35/year for an average house in Kamloops.

Innovation aspects of the project include:• Building two plants on the site (effluent to

irrigation and to the river)• Incorporating biological phosphorus removal into

a lagoon system• Combining clarifiers with lagoons• Adding a 20,000 m² floating cover to an

anaerobic lagoon• Recovering energy from the anaerobic lagoon to

heat/cool the Administration Building.

This paper will be of interest to owners, operators, contractors and consultants and will cover:

• Specific construction/operation issues• Specific unique design components• Regulatory coordination/approvals• Commissioning process including lessons learned,• Preliminary operating results.


Organic carbon removal – DBP compliant drinking water for all communities

Presenter: Madjid Mohseni, Ph. D.University of British ColumbiaAdditional Contributors: Emily Doyle-Yamaguchi, B.Sc. Cowichan Valley Regional District (CVRD); Chris Howorth, P.Eng., Veolia, Vancouver, BC.

Dissolved and particulate organic carbon in drinking water sources can cause two issues:

1. Where chlorine is used for disinfection, disinfection byproducts (such as tri-halomethanes and haloacetic acids) are formed as a result of reactions between chlorine and organic molecules. Some DBPs are suspected to be carcinogenic; hence, are regulated under drinking water quality requirements.

2. Organic materials can impart colour to water, potentially even resembling strong tea where concentrations are high. This can be unappealing to consumers, resulting in complaints.

The financial and technical resources available to large water suppliers give them access to relatively well-established treatment processes for organic carbon removal (e.g. coagulation-filtration). The cost and complexity of these technologies however can render them inaccessible for small and medium sized suppliers. RES’EAU-WaterNET (a strategic small water system network, funded by the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council and led by the University of British Columbia) recently initiated a research project to evaluate two innovative technologies with the potential to overcome these challenges. The project is taking place at Shawnigan Lake (on Vancouver Island), and involves UBC, Ecole Polytechnique de Montreal, University of Victoria, the Cowichan Valley Regional District and Veolia. It is evaluating two innovative technologies (based on membrane filtration and ion exchange processes) with the potential to help small and medium sized communities overcome organic carbon treatment challenges. This presentation will outline the project, the technologies, preliminary results of the research, and potential for application in the study community.


1:30 - 2:00 pm

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STREAM 5: BUILDING PUBLIC SUPPORT FOR WATER

Skaha room, Delta Grand

What you need to know about human behaviour when preparing service delivery strategies

Presenter: Anna Robak, P.Eng., CP.Eng., Ph.D. (econ), M.Sc.E (infrastructure)Opus DaytonKnight Consultants Ltd.

We are travelling at speeds we would not have thought possible one hundred years ago, and communicating in ways that were only science fiction thirty years ago. Our assets are expected to last up to 100 years, over which time we will experience technological, environmental and institutional changes that we cannot yet imagine. Given the possibility that the nature of our services could drastically change within our assets’ lives, it is only prudent that we consider that we might use different technologies, have different service delivery models, and charge differently for our services. While it is difficult to imagine what our technological alternatives might be, one thing is certain: the success of these service delivery alternatives will depend on how people react to them. This paper develops a basic model that shows how changes in three aspects of service delivery – service provider, service delivery mechanism, and charging mechanism – influence people’s behaviours and how they value the service. This service change model is based on findings from my research and the literature. It shows that people’s behaviours could change dramatically, for example, when they have a new service provider. These findings will be of interest to any service provider that is considering new, or has recently undergone changes to, their service delivery. Understanding people’s likely reactions to changes in service delivery will help utilities develop strategies for informing consumers and managing expectations.


Dealing with fugitive sewer odours resulting from municipal combined sewer separation programs

Presenter: Yuko Suda, P.Eng.Kerr Wood Leidal Associates Ltd.

Many municipalities are aggressively pursuing separation of their combined sewers into storm and sanitary systems. One often overlooked problem when separating the sewer systems is fugitive odour release, and resulting odour complaints. Combined sewers typically do not have significant odour issues because the BOD of the sanitary component is diluted by the storm component. As the combined system is separated, the sanitary sewer portion of the separated system will develop odour issues.Odours are typically released as a result of local pressurization of the air space in the sewer system. Sanitary sewer systems have relatively few and easily identified air release points for foul air (such as manhole lids, building roof vents, and pump stations). Conversely, a storm sewer system has many potential release points for foul air. The consequence of this is that odours generated in the sanitary sewer portion of a partially separated system can travel into the storm portion and release through its many atmospheric connections, potentially resulting in more odour complaints than a fully separated system would have.Because many of these odour issues are interim, targeted strategies may offer the most effective – and cost-effective – solution over traditional, comprehensive odour control and air management techniques. Targeted strategies include a detailed identification of odour sources, limited air extraction and treatment, and isolation of combined sewer air spaces.


1:30 - 2:00 pm


Occurrence of viruses, other pathogens, and organic wastewater indicators, in seven First Nation communities in southern BC

Presenter: Marta Green, P.Geo.Summit Environmental Consultants Inc.Additional Contributors: Ted Molyneux, P.Eng., Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada; Pierre Berube, P.Eng., Professor, UBC Faculty of Applied Science

The BC region of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada requires that all community water supply sources be disinfected at the source. This includes all groundwater supply wells that supply connections of five homes of more. Many first nation communities are located in remote areas, with low housing density. Moreover, well systems with chlorine treatment cause iron and manganese to precipitate, leading to a low aesthetic value of the water. The specific objectives of this study were to (1) develop and test a methodology to test for viruses in groundwater at First Nations’ wells in BC using dead end ultra-filtration techniques; (2) assess if surrogates or other indicators can be used to assess presence of viruses; and (3) determine if viruses, other pathogens, and/or organic wastewater compounds are present in a select number of First Nation communities in Southern BC at one snap shot in time. Samples were collected from confined and unconfined wells located near surface water, near septic fields and sanitary lines, and away from potential sources of pathogens. Viruses were present in three of fifteen samples collected. Comparison of the results showed no link between presence or absence of organic wastewater indicators and presence or absence of viruses when virus sampling is conducted only once. The study was successful in developing and testing a methodology to test for viruses in groundwater at First Nations’ wells in BC using dead end ultra-filtration techniques. This methodology can be applied to future groundwater supply projects where communities wish to know their risk to water borne pathogens including viruses.


Harmonizing WSER and MWR: A status report

Presenter: Ian Cameron, Environment Canada and Justin Sabourin, BC Ministry of Environment

The WastewaterSystemsEffluentRegulations (WSER) under the federal Fisheries Act were published in the Canada Gazette Part II on July 18, 2012 and include baseline effluent quality standards and risk-based compliance timelines, representing fulfillment of a key federal commitment under the Canadian Council of Ministers of the Environment (CCME) Canada-wide Strategy for the Management of Municipal Wastewater Effluent.As part of a further commitment under the CCME Strategy for the establishment of bilateral agreements between the federal government and the provinces and Yukon for the WSER, Canada and British Columbia are working toward an equivalency agreement for the WSER in British Columbia. The approach and process for the establishment of the agreement will be discussed, as well as arrangements for interim administration of the WSER, and continuing collaboration between the two governments.


1:30 - 2:00 pm 2:00 - 2:30 pm

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Transitioning to Master Municipal Construction Documents 2014 design guidelines

Presenter: David Chan, P.Eng., M.Eng.MMCD

MMCD has recently launched the 2014 Design Guidelines. This presentation will highlight some of the key changes from the last edition. Also included in this edition is the updated sustainable design alternatives for Roads, Storm, Sanitary and Streetlighting. This presentation will be a great resource for municipalities looking at adopting the MMCD Design Guidelines as their own in-house design reference.


The BC Water Use Reporting Centre (BCWURC)

Presenter: Natasha Neumann, Ph.D.Private ConsultantAdditional Contributors: Suzan Lapp, Ph.D., Urban Systems, Kelowna, BC; Sid Kwakkel, M.Sc., EIT, Summit Environmental Consultants, Vernon, BC; Nelson Jatel, M.A., Okanagan Basin Water Board, Kelowna, BC; James Littley, C.D., B.A., Okanagan Basin Water Board, Kelowna, BC

Sustainable resource management and planning requires ready access to good quality data. The BC Water Use Reporting Centre (BCWURC) is a simple on-line water management and reporting system that standardises the collection, storage and reporting of water use by large volume users. Once users upload water use information, they can generate standardised documents that meet provincial reporting requirements, access previously entered data for benchmarking and analysis, and compare use to other utilities. Two new tools have recently been added: one for agricultural users and another for integrating locally-collected hydrometric data with the federal database. Water utility and local government senior water managers have described the BCWURC as an easy-to use web-based software platform that improves secure data management, data sharing, collaborative research and mandatory annual reporting of water use to the provincial government. Developed and tested in the Okanagan, BCWURC is now being implemented in the Nanaimo region, with the intention for province-wide application. An overview of the BCWURC interface will be presented, focusing on the new tools.


2:00 - 2:30 pm


Don’t move a mussel – Protecting BC waters from the impacts of invasive species

Presenter: Lisa ScottR.P.Bio. M.Sc.Additional Contributors: Okanagan and Similkameen Invasive Species Society (OASISS)

The Okanagan and other areas of BC are at extreme risk for invasion of several aquatic species, most notably Zebra and Quagga mussels. Their arrival would be devastating to our drinking water systems, our environment and our economy.Invasive mussels have caused several billion dollars of damage to waterways and water infrastructure in the Great Lakes and across North America, including municipal water supplies and agricultural irrigation facilities. These European mussels rapidly colonize hard surfaces and clog water intake structures, such as pipes and screens, thereby impacting pumping capabilities for power and domestic water treatment plants. Invasion of these mussels into BC could result in control and management costs to our urban water infrastructure amounting to millions of dollars annually and have long term, detrimental consequences for the environment.Recently the Federal Government has recognized the challenge by empowering Canadian Border Services Agency to deny mussel-infested boats entry into Canada. However, the mussels are moving quicker than either the Federal or Provincial Governments can act. Consequently, regional groups and local governments are spearheading prevention programs to educate recreational boaters and other water users, and monitor local waterways. Learn more about the costs and challenges faced by other utilities and how to prevent the spread of invasive mussels into BC.

STREAM 5: BUILDING PUBLIC SUPPORT FOR WATERSkaha room, Delta Grand

Public stakeholder communication can make or break your project - case study: The Mara Lake Water Treatment Plant

Presenter: Jean Lambert, MBA, B.Sc., PMPMHPM Project LeadersAdditional Contributors: Michael Nordquist, M.Eng., P.Eng., PMP, LEED AP, MHPM, Vancouver, BC; Timothy Phelan, P.Eng, P.E, OPUS DK, Kelowna, BC

As city managers, project managers, and Engineers, we always believe that we have the support of our peers, councilors, and constituents when planning and working on a project. But what do you do when you are faced with unexpected roadblocks and endless debates about aspects you never imagined would be questioned? What can be done to mitigate these risks? The District of Sicamous is improving their existing Mara Lake water supply infrastructure to comply with current water quality regulations. This project was initiated as a result of a 2012 flood event that saw turbidity levels reach between 20 and 100 NTU, well above the historical average. However, the project was nearly derailed at the early stages of design. The public became uneasy about perceived cost overruns. The original project budget had been based on incomplete information that led the public to start questioning every aspect of the project.Using the Mara Lake WTP as a case study, this presentation will provide an overview of the importance of stakeholder engagement and explore the application of effective communication strategies. We will review the project history, the initial expectations, what actually happened, how the project team responded, and how this situation could have been mitigated or prevented. We will also provide thoughts on the roles of the major players involved in a public project and on how to successfully utilize your resources.


2:00 - 2:30 pm

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Microcystins- Occurrence and laboratory analysis

Presenter: Rudy Pante, BS ChemistryPlante H2O Consultant

In August 2014, the Collins Park Water Treatment plant in Toledo, Ohio shut down for two days because microcystin-LR, a cyanotoxin, was detected at elevated levels in their treated water. The Ohio EPA ordered temporary tap water ban which was lifted after three days. Lake Erie is the source water of the treatment plant and during that time there was a blue green algae bloom. Microcystins are toxins produced by cyanobacteria also known as blue-green algae. When conditions are favorable for growth in surface waters (warm, stable conditions are required), large populations can occur. The cyanobacteria may release toxins upon cell death or lysis. When released, these toxins can persist for weeks to months. Microcystins present a health risk to animals and humans.The World Health Organization’s (WHO) provisional drinking water guideline is 1.0 ug/L for Microcystin-LR. In Canada, the maximum acceptable concentration (MAC) is 1.5 ug/L. Currently, there is no guideline for microcystins in USA, however, cyanotoxins are included in Contaminant Candidate List 2 (CCL2). There are two analytical methods that are widely used to analyse microcystins. These are Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) and Liquid Chromatography Mass Spectrometer (LC-MS/MS). I will discuss the ELISA method of analysis as it is more affordable to water treatment plant laboratories and can be used to screen microcystins in both raw and treated drinking water.


Ion exchange: Predicting natural organic matter (NOM) removal during drinking water treatment

Presenter: Heather Wray, Ph.D.University of British ColumbiaAdditional Contributors: Roman Vortisch, M.A.Sc., Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany; Pierre Bérubé, Ph.D., P.Eng., University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC

Drinking water treatment in small and/or isolated communities requires the use of compact, simple and affordable technologies. One of the main challenges for small scale drinking water systems is natural organic matter (NOM) in source water, which can lead to issues associated with aesthetic quality of the water and disinfection. Ion exchange resins are a cost-effective treatment to remove NOM from surface waters. Traditionally, column tests are conducted to determine the capacity and operating conditions of the resin; however, column tests are time-consuming and complex. An alternative test to determine resin capacity is the multiple loading test (MLT), conducted at bench scale, which consists of successive batch tests that are faster and less resource intensive than conventional column tests. To date, MLTs are not frequently conducted and there is no basis for comparison of results to column tests. The current research is comparing MLTs and column tests for two source waters (DOC = 5 mg/L): Jericho Pond water (Vancouver, BC) and a lab-created water prepared with Suwannee River NOM. The resin used for study, Purolite A860, is a strong base anionic exchange resin. Experiments have determined that columns are able to remove approximately 70% of NOM from surface waters, with predicted breakthroughs (resin saturation) ranging from 85 to 220 days. MLT experiments, in comparison, predicted similar NOM removals (67%) and breakthrough periods (118 days). Some resin columns also formed biofilms, which resulted in increased NOM removal; this is an interesting new area of research that is continuing to be explored.


2:30 - 3:00 pm

STREAM 5: BUILDING PUBLIC SUPPORT FOR WATERSkaha room, Delta Grand

Lessons learned - Using the integrated design process to carry-out a major planning study for the Lions Gate secondary wastewater treatment plant project definition report

Presenter: Richard Bitcon, M.Eng., P.Eng., MBAAECOMAdditional Contributors: Paul Dufault, P.Eng., Metro Vancouver; Joyce Chang, P.Eng., CH2M HILL

Metro Vancouver will upgrade its existing primary treatment plant on the North Shore to secondary treatment by the end of 2020 to meet the new federal Wastewater Systems Effluent Regulation (WSER). The project definition phase for the new Lions Gate Secondary Wastewater Treatment Plant (LGSWWTP) was carried out using a formal Integrated Design Process (IDP) over a period of almost two years. The final solution (Indicative Design), including the new wastewater treatment facility and supporting ancillary infrastructure, such as influent and effluent conveyance and deconstructing the existing primary plant, has an estimated CAPEX of $700M representing one of the largest wastewater infrastructure projects in Canada.This presentation will provide an overview of the IDP framework, the stakeholders involved, the structured


Overview of the City of Regina’s wastewater treatment plant upgrade/expansion as a P3 project

Presenter: Chris Baisley, MBA, P.Eng.Deloitte

In July 2014, The City of Regina reached financial close on Canada’s first sizable wastewater public-private partnership (P3) project. The project is an upgrade and expansion of the City’s existing wastewater treatment plant through a 30-year design-build-finance-operate-maintain delivery model (DBFOM).This presentation will outline the municipal decision-making process for P3, the P3 deal structure, the procurement process, and the successful result achieved.

decision-making (SDM) process developed by the design team to build and evaluate concepts and technologies and lessons learned by the design team that may be applied to future municipal infrastructure projects that will be implemented using a formal IDP and/or similar SDM framework. The discussion will include feedback from the public and other external stakeholders and internal stakeholders within Metro Vancouver.


Pharmaceuticals and personal care products as emerging contaminants of concern in municipal wastewater

Presenter: Kevin Barnard, M.Sc.Capital Regional District

It is estimated that approximately six million Pharmaceuticals and Personal Care Products (PPCPs) exist worldwide. PPCPs are being detected in municipal wastewater, and becoming sources of concern among policy makers and the public. As a Regional Source Control Program inspector for the Capital Regional District, I regulate industrial, commercial, and institutional facilities to reduce contaminant loading into the wastewater systems and receiving environments. The Program also promotes reduced contaminant loadings through residential outreach and education. Part of the Regional Source Control Program’s initiative is dedicated to conducting research into emerging contaminants of concern. Graduate and undergraduate sponsored studies have: identified 125 PPCPs within the region’s wastewater; compared PPCP influent to effluent concentrations and loadings following preliminary treatment in the region; and estimated partitioning and environmental risk of PPCPs following secondary treatment in the region. My own Masters research conducted a comparative assessment of known partitioned PPCP loadings against modeled/predicted loadings to determine the effectiveness of estimation models for determining PPCP partitioning in wastewater systems; and conducted a comparative assessment of known PPCP concentrations in the region’s marine and terrestrial receiving environments against modeled/predicted toxicity values for aquatic and terrestrial species to determine priority PPCPs of concern.


2:30 - 3:00 pm

46

CLOSING SESSION AND KEYNOTE | Okanagan Room, Delta Grand

Mental toughness, teamwork and leadership stories of a death-defying ocean adventurerPresenter: Adam Kreek

Mental toughness. Teamwork. Leadership. Get ready to learn timeless change management and leadership strategies that will re-boot teamwork, engage performance and strengthen your personal resiliency. Adam is a Social Entrepreneur who lives it. He runs a biodiesel company and organic food bar company, but is best known as a world-class athlete and interactive storyteller. Adam is an Olympic Gold medalist in eight-man rowing and a death-defying ocean adventurer.

“You row an ocean by taking one stroke at a time. You build a business by solving one problem at a time. Make forward progress one inch at a time. Inch by inch. Repeat!” - Adam Kreek

Adam holds a degree in Geotechnical Engineering and Hydrology from Stanford University. He lives in Victoria, BC, with his wife and two children. Want to see Adam in action?


3:15 – 5:00 pm

BC Water & Waste Association620 - 1090 West Pender Street

Vancouver BC V6E 2N7Phone: 604-433-4389

Toll-free: 1-877-433-4389www.bcwwa.org

Book of Abstracts€¦ · Presenters: Andrew Lewis and Sheena Graham, WaterTrax Available in...

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