2023 PA Rural Water Conference Classes

Aerobic Digestion: An Operational Guide from Design through Operation

9A-12:30P | Room 206 | Ed Pietroski, LO, PE

This class covers the terminology, options, and basic design considerations of aerobic digesters so operators can achieve better results during the construction or rehab of digesters in the future. Earn 3 WW CH.

Managing the Monster: FOG (Fats, Oils, & Grease)

1:30-5P | Room 107 | Tori Morgan, LO

FOG (fats, oils, and grease) can be a huge problem in wastewater systems because it accumulates and solidifies, causing blockages in pipes and leading to costly maintenance and repairs. Additionally, FOG can contribute to the formation of sewer overflows and environmental pollution. We’ll review what exactly FOG is, where it comes from, how to develop a FOG Program, and how to perform FOG inspections and training. Earn 3 WW CH.

Collection System Rehabilitation and Maintenance

1:30-5p | Room 105 | Bryon Killian, LO, PE & William Fridah, PE (USG)

Inspecting, identifying and repairing collection system problems before they become major problems are an important part of an operator’s responsibilities.This class will cover common collection maintenance and rehabilitation techniques for system components. Earn 3 WW CH

Energy Efficiency in the Water and Wastewater System

8A-11:30P | Room 206 | Ed Pietroski, LO, PE

This class will show where energy dollars go in a system. Operators will learn to identify how much and when equipment uses energy, and how to quantify savings. Discussion topics include energy-efficient equipment, processes and process control, and Pennsylvania law concerning guaranteed energy savings contracts. Earn 3 W & WW CH

Water Tank Optimization

1:30-5P | Room 105 | Christine Gunsaullus

The old mindset of “excess storage is good, and always keep the tank full” no longer works, as tanks have become problematic in regards to high water age and loss of chlorine residual in the distribution system. PA DEP Distribution Optimization Goals for tanks will be reviewed, along with ways to accomplish them. Earn 3 W CH