Design and Selection Approach for an Open Channel UV Disinfection Systems for Wastewater Treatment

Posted on by Lynn Yeldell

Ultraviolet (UV) systems are an effective technology used at wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) to disinfect wastewater to meet and exceed permit limits for E. Coli, Enterococci, and similar disinfection requirements. UV disinfection offers several benefits, including the elimination of chemical handling and a smaller footprint. However, selecting and sizing UV systems for each application is critical and must be done based on regulatory requirements, client preferences, and site-specific factors. There are multiple ways to design and procure a UV disinfection system, each with specific advantages and disadvantages based on the requirements of the project.

In this article, we explore key considerations in designing and selecting UV disinfection systems for wastewater treatment, including:

  • The basics of UV disinfection theory
  • An overview of UV system components
  • Project-specific criteria to consider
  • How to perform an alternative analysis to preselect UV systems
  • Considerations for procurement (e.g., two competing designs or preselection)

Sizing UV Disinfection Systems

UV systems are sized to meet a certain Reduction Equivalent Dose (RED) for each project to deactivate microorganisms and disinfect wastewater. The dose needed to disinfect the wastewater sample is reduced using two reduction factors (typically one for quartz sleeve fouling and one for end of lamp life) to determine the RED used for design. The RED and the UV system sizing can be influenced by many interconnecting factors, including bioassay validation (third-party validation of UV system models), UV transmittance (i.e. pre-UV influent wastewater quality), desired log inactivation effectiveness and effluent permit requirements, and the dosage reduction factors.

Designing Open Channel UV Disinfection Systems

UV systems are either open channel systems or closed vessel systems. This article is specific to open channel systems. There are a variety of open channel UV disinfection system makes and models but most of them have the following common basic components:  UV lamps and Quartz Sleeves, UV banks/modules, Ballast/drivers, cleaning systems, lifting mechanism, level control device, sensors, SCADA/control panels, and influent flow conditioner plates. 

The design and selection of UV system is highly specific to the unique characteristics of each site, project goals, and client/operator preferences.

Key factors to consider include:

  • Site conditions (greenfield vs. rehabilitation)
  • Process design criteria (upstream treatment and permit effluent limits)
  • Redundancy needs
  • Channel geometry
  • WWTP hydraulics and level control requirements
  • Available space for associated lifting, electrical, and controls equipment

Additionally, local service availability ensures reliable maintenance and is a factor that shouldn’t be overlooked. Finally, owner and operator preferences significantly influence the selection process. All of these factors influence project capital costs and operations and maintenance (O&M) expenses, with lifecycle costs typically governing the selection of a UV system.

Designs and products on the market for open channel UV disinfection technology vary significantly between manufacturers, and these differences extend past manufacturers selection and impact other aspects of design, such as channel geometry, hydraulics, electrical requirements, cleaning and lifting mechanisms, and other site layout considerations as well as the O&M of the system.

Click and drag the image above to view the 360-image.

Selecting and Procuring UV Disinfection Systems

Given the lack of “swappable equipment characteristics”, there are two common approaches to selecting and procuring UV disinfection systems. The first approach – allowing multiple manufacturers to compete during the bid phase which may lead to the need for separate designs for each manufacturer. Approach two – selecting a manufacturer through a preselection process or predesign engineering alternative analysis. Following are the advantages and disadvantages of the two approaches:

Approach 1: Allowing Multiple Manufacturers to Compete during Bid Phase

Advantages:

  • Cost Competition: Encourages competitive pricing on bid day for a traditional design-bid-built project, potentially lowering overall project costs.
  • Diverse Options: Provides a wider range of technologies and designs to choose from, which may lead to innovative project specific solutions.
  • Flexibility: Allows for adjustments based on the best available technology and market conditions (lead times, contractor preferences, etc.).

Disadvantages:

  • Design Complexity: May require separate designs for each manufacturer, complicating the overall system integration. This generally results in increased engineering effort and design fees.
  • Increased Time: Lengthens the bidding, evaluation, and construction submittal review processes, as each proposal needs thorough review.
  • Potential for Confusion: Different design approaches can lead to inconsistencies and challenges in coordination. As well contractors’ bids are not apples to apples comparison if contractors choose different UV systems.

Approach 2: Preselecting a Manufacturer via Alternative Analysis

Advantages:

  • Systematic approach: Allows competition and comparison between manufacturers against the established project criteria, often using qualitative and quantitative measures. Making selection for the most suitable project specific option based on the alternative analysis.
  • Streamlined Design: Facilitates a cohesive design process tailored to a specific manufacturer’s technology, enhancing integration.
  • Faster Implementation: Reduces the time spent on bidding and submittal review process, generally allowing for quicker project execution.
  • Clearer Expectations: Simplifies communication and alignment between the project team, the selected manufacturer, and the Contractor.

Disadvantages:

  • Limited Bid-Day Competition: Generally, this approach reduces the competitive bidding environment, potentially leading to higher costs if equipment is not preselected.
  • Dependency on One Manufacturer: Creates a reliance on a single manufacturer, which could pose risks if issues arise with their technology or personnel support.
  • Inflexibility to Change: If project requirements evolve, it may be challenging to adapt when bound to a single manufacturer’s solutions.

Optimizing UV System Selection for Effective Wastewater Disinfection

UV disinfection systems play a vital role in helping wastewater treatment plants meet stringent regulatory standards for pathogen removal. Selecting the right system requires careful consideration of site-specific factors, project goals, and operator preferences, as these choices significantly impact capital and operational costs. Both procurement approaches—allowing multiple manufacturers to compete or preselecting a single manufacturer—come with their own advantages and disadvantages that must be weighed against project requirements. Ultimately, a thorough understanding of UV disinfection theory and system components is essential for making informed decisions. By optimizing the selection process, WWTPs can enhance disinfection efficiency while maintaining compliance and minimizing lifecycle costs.

Partner with HR Green’s Water Team to implement innovative wastewater treatment solutions. HR Green works with municipalities and utilities to design, construct, and implement wastewater treatment engineering solutions. Whether you’re looking to upgrade existing facilities or develop new facility designs, our proactive approach includes energy-saving initiatives that strategically invest dollars into upgrades, helping your facilities meet service and permit needs for the future. Contact us today to discuss how we can support your next project.

Contact Our Wastewater Team

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Meet with HR Green During Upcoming Career Fairs

Posted on by Lynn Yeldell

As the spring semester kicks off, we understand you’re balancing coursework, participating in campus activities, and planning your future—whether it’s landing a civil engineering internship, exploring full-time career opportunities, or gearing up for graduation. During this exciting journey, the HR Green team is eager to connect with students like you at career fairs and professional development events this spring.

When we’re on campus, it’s more than just discussing internships or job opportunities. We’re here to learn about your aspirations, address your questions, and provide insights into our industry.

Be sure to check our calendar to see when the HR Green team will be visiting your campus this spring! We look forward to meeting you and supporting your journey.

Meet With Us at Your Upcoming Career Fair!

Career Benefits at HR Green

We understand that meaningful career progression is key to the growth of our organization and team members. That’s why each year dozens of civil engineering interns and graduates join us from all around the country – eager for a chance to expand their skill set in an atmosphere where collaboration is embraced and celebrated. 

Here, you can enjoy stimulating opportunities to gain knowledge, create lasting relationships with colleagues, and grow as a professional while paving your way towards success!

Grow With Green

Unlock the full potential of your career with HR Green’s Grow With Green program. We understand that transitioning into a technical expert or client-facing advisor can be intimidating. That’s why we’ve designed our Grow With Green programs to help you blaze your own path and gain invaluable skills for any next step in life. 

Professional Development Programs Include:

  • Foundations: A two-day in-person workshop is a continuation of onboarding at HR Green.
  • Project Manager Academy: Classes strengthen understanding of contract elements, client engagement, and managing a project team.
  • Business Development Academy: A program to enhance your skills to transition to client-facing roles with HR Green.
  • Leadership Academy: Grow your leadership skills using our powerful 360 online assessment tool.
  • Green University: Access a library of over 1,000 e-courses curated by AEC professionals. Take a class to satisfy your PDH requirements or gain new skills.

Employee Connections

  • HeR Green connects women professionals across the firm, providing support and camaraderie to cultivate skills, encourage career development, and exchange ideas.
  • Young Professional groups discuss topics relevant to career development, augment formalized training, and provide community to professionals from entry-level to ten years of experience.
  • Innovation Lab is a platform to create positive change, allowing all employees to communicate improvement ideas and business opportunities to decision-makers and senior management.

This is just an introduction to the learning opportunities at HR Green. We believe professional development is closely tied to strong mentorship. Our mentorship culture is a cornerstone of how we empower employees to thrive and grow. Learn more about the importance of mentorship at HR Green.

Work with HR Green

group photo of a few 2023 engineering interns at HR Green

Hear experiences from our most recent summer interns, who joined us during the 2024 summer!

Our Internship Experience

Meet HR Green’s Arizona Team: Local Experience, National Resources

Posted on by Lynn Yeldell

HR Green, a trusted leader in civil engineering and consulting, and YSMA, an Arizona-based traffic, transportation, and telecommunications engineering firm are integrating as one organization. This milestone blends over a century of experience with the local knowledge and relationships cultivated by YSMA (now HR Green), creating a dynamic and resourceful team ready to serve Arizona’s growing communities.

Yogesh Mantri, YSMA Founder and now HR Green’s Arizona Regional Director, expressed his excitement about the company’s dedication to building strong relationships with local clients.

“Our goal is to be a trusted partner to every client, from small businesses to large-scale municipalities. We understand Arizona’s unique needs and are excited to help the community thrive with sustainable infrastructure solutions.”

This commitment to personalized client service is a hallmark of HR Green’s approach.

“One of the things that stood out to me about Yogesh and his team, was their focus on their clients. They serve their clients with great technical capabilities and with care,” emphasized Jason Poppen, CEO of HR Green.

Expanded Services, Enhanced Opportunities

HR Green’s support in Arizona enhances transportation and broadband services and enables access to an expanded suite of services, from planning and land development to construction engineering and municipal solutions. By combining the strengths of our local team with the capabilities of HR Green’s national network, we’re delivering more comprehensive and tailored solutions to public and private sectors.

“Becoming HR Green allowed us to tap into more resources and expand our offerings, but our values and commitment remain unchanged,” Yogesh explained. “This transition means our clients benefit tremendously.”

This integration allows the team to tailor solutions for each project, meeting the specific needs of developers and public agencies while maintaining strong client relationships. This collaborative approach allows every project to benefit from specialized attention and innovative solutions.

“It’s not just about the work we do—it’s about maintaining strong relationships and handling every project with care and precision,” noted Phil Stuepfert, Business Development Manager for HR Green.

Arizona Project Portfolio

Loop 202 ITS and FMS
Phoenix High-Intensity Activated Crosswalk Signals
animal crossing system

Commitment to Arizona’s Infrastructure and Community Growth

Arizona’s rapid growth presents exciting opportunities—and challenges. HR Green is committed to helping the state meet these demands with a focus on sustainable, future-ready infrastructure.

“Arizona is growing rapidly, and with that growth comes the need for smart, sustainable infrastructure,” Yogesh remarked. “We’re excited to contribute to that growth by bringing sustainable solutions to the forefront of our projects, especially as we consider water conservation and multi-modal transportation.”

From innovative solutions to personalized service, HR Green is ready to make a lasting impact. We invite you to connect with our Arizona team to discuss your upcoming projects or learn more about our expanded services.

5 STEM Ideas for the Classroom or at Home

Posted on by Lynn Yeldell

Looking for exciting ways to bring STEM education concepts to life for kids? HR Green has rounded up some fun and engaging civil engineering-themed STEM activities for kids that are perfect for the classroom or at home. These activities are inspired by the real-world challenges engineers face, with a playful twist! To see how HR Green has partnered with schools and communities to make STEM education engaging and fun, check out our previous projects where we brought STEM learning to life for students.

Let’s dive into some hands-on STEM projects to get kids thinking like engineers while having fun.

1. Build a Pasta Tower

Pasta towers are a great way to teach students about structural engineering. Using dry spaghetti and marshmallows (or other binding materials), students can design and build a tower that must support a given weight at the top (like a small ball or egg). This activity teaches about tension, compression, and load distribution—concepts engineers use when designing skyscrapers and bridges.

Ages: 7+
Instructions: Watch a tutorial. Set a height or weight challenge. Can your tower support the weight of a book? See who can build the tallest tower without it toppling over.

2. Create a Popsicle Stick Bridge

Engineers design bridges to handle heavy loads without breaking. With popsicle sticks and glue, students can construct their own bridges, learning about tension, compression, and trusses. The goal is to build the strongest bridge possible, and teams can test its strength by seeing how much weight it can hold using pennies or small weights.

Ages: 8+
Instructions: Have students test different designs to see which shape is the strongest. View a detailed guide on how to build a toothpick bridge.

3. Build a Paper Roller Coaster

Roller coasters are a great way to explore physics concepts like gravity, speed, and motion. With just paper, scissors, and tape, students can design their own roller coaster tracks for a marble. This activity helps kids visualize how energy transforms from potential to kinetic as the marble moves along the track.

Ages: 10+
Instructions: Challenge students to create loops and drops while keeping the marble moving. Check out DIY Paper Roller Coaster for step-by-step guidance.

4. ​​DIY Water Filtration System

Teach kids about the importance of clean water with a hands-on water filtration experiment. Using materials like gravel, sand, activated charcoal, and a coffee filter, students can create their own water filtration system. This activity introduces environmental engineering and water treatment concepts while emphasizing the need for clean, potable water.

Ages: 8+
Instructions: Have students pour dirty water through the filter and observe how the different layers help purify it. Here’s a step-by-step guide.

5. Simulate an Earthquake-Proof Structure

How do engineers design buildings that can survive earthquakes? Students can build a structure using straws, toothpicks, or marshmallows and test it on a Jell-O “earthquake simulator.” This fun activity introduces the concept of stability and resilience in civil engineering while simulating a real-world problem.

Ages: 9+
Instructions: Try building different designs and shake the Jell-O tray to see which structures stay standing. See this Earthquake Simulation Activity for more detailed instructions.

Bonus Activity: HR Green Coloring Pages

Get creative with HR Green’s coloring pages that showcase different engineering roles and infrastructure projects. It’s a great way to introduce engineering concepts to kids while fostering creativity. Download the coloring pages.  

Celebrating STEM Everyday

With these hands-on STEM projects and engineering experiments, kids can engage in STEM learning at home while exploring the exciting world of civil engineering. These DIY engineering projects not only promote problem-solving and critical thinking, but also give children a glimpse into real-world engineering challenges. Whether building a bridge or simulating an earthquake-proof structure, these STEM activities for kids are sure to spark an interest in STEM education and encourage future engineers to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and math.

Seeking More Sustainable Wastewater Treatment

Posted on by Heidi Whitver

Though human health and the environment have benefitted from the emergence of sustainable wastewater treatment as a standard protocol for waste disposal, the benefits have come with a high economic burden to the budgets of municipalities and industries. Three percent of the electricity used in the United States is used to treat wastewater (Burton 1996).

Typically most of the energy required is used to provide oxygen to the biological processes that break down the waste. Energy is also required to pump water from tank to tank and to filters and other processes.

Energy Saving Measures for Sustainable Wastewater Treatment

The following are examples of several energy savings measures that could be applied to your wastewater treatment plant, helping to reduce the amount of electricity the WWTP needs to operate, and addressing the neglected pillar of the triple bottom line – your operating budget.

Evaluate Aeration System Improvements

Providing oxygen for biological treatment of wastewater generally consumes 25 to 60 percent of the total wastewater plant energy use (WEF, 2009). Wastewater flows and pollutant concentrations usually vary daily and seasonally; therefore the level of oxygen required for treatment can vary significantly over time. Similar to the way that pumping systems may need to match their output to the arrival of wastewater flow to the plant, efficient aeration systems need to deliver the amount of dissolved oxygen (DO) needed for biological breakdown of the waste without providing excess oxygen to the process.

Aeration diffusers
Aeration diffusers at CIRSSD in Chisholm, MN.

Wastewater treatment plants commonly employ blowers to deliver oxygen to the wastewater process. In order to prevent wasting electricity on over aeration, blowers can be controlled by DO probes located in the wastewater treatment basins. Implementing this type of control can be a big energy saver because less oxygen will be delivered to the wastewater during low oxygen demand periods. There are numerous configurations for monitoring DO to provide blower control and some are more effective than others.

In addition to DO-based blower control, blowers are often installed with conservative settings to avoid a dangerous condition called surge. Surging of blowers can be very damaging and should be avoided. There are blower control strategies that minimize the wasted air (blow-off) that is eliminated from the system in order to prevent surge conditions. Minimizing the air wasted due to blow-off and precisely turning down the blowers instead results in a direct savings of electricity.

Another method to save on energy costs is to implement most open valve (MOV) control strategy. A MOV strategy results in control valves operating in a more open position. By keeping the valves more open there is correspondingly less pressure loss through the pipeline which reduces wasted energy. This results in a lower pressure required by the blowers and therefore lower horsepower to achieve the same flow. For further information please refer to our recent white paper titled Energy Savings.

Consider an Advanced Aerobic Process – Modified Ludzack-Ettinger

The Modified Ludzack-Ettinger (MLE) process requires significantly less oxygen than standard aeration systems. The reduction in oxygen required is achieved by delivering nitrate, a compound that can serve a similar role as oxygen, to the bacteria for use during wastewater treatment. The MLE process has two other secondary benefits: it requires less alkalinity addition than standard aeration and it also removes nitrogen from the wastewater.

Traditional aeration systems simply change the form of nitrogen without removing it. Nutrient limits, which are permitting limits on total nitrogen and total phosphorous, will be in effect in 29 states by 2016 (www.epa.gov). If your plant is planning to contend with total nitrogen limits in the future, switching to an MLE process is a good way to meet the limits due to the process’s efficient use of air. Different MLE configurations require different rates of energy consumption for pumping recycle flows, therefore proper planning during design is needed to minimize that energy expense.

Implement Anaerobic Systems

Since we have been discussing how expensive and complicated delivering air to biological processes can be, why not go anaerobic? Anaerobic systems rely on a different suite of bacteria to break down waste that does not require oxygen and, therefore, does not require aeration. Anaerobic systems are especially good at treating high-strength wastewaters. Industries such as food processing plants, sweetener processing plants, and slaughterhouses are good candidates for anaerobic treatment.

Switching from aerobic treatment to anaerobic treatment is where the greatest energy savings can be achieved since all of the energy required to aerate is eliminated.

In the municipal setting, anaerobic digesters are frequently used to digest waste-activated sludge. Switching from aerobic treatment to anaerobic treatment is where the greatest energy savings can be achieved since all of the energy required to aerate is eliminated. Another benefit of anaerobic digestion is that the energy that it recovers from the wastewater can often be used to generate heat and even electricity at the plant. Please refer to our whitepaper on Anaerobic Digestion to learn more.

Evaluate Motor Efficiency

Approximately 90% of the electrical energy consumption of a wastewater treatment plant goes to powering electric motors (WEF, 2009). These motors pump water, blow air, pump chemicals, open and close valves, and more. Since motors are present in so many processes within a wastewater treatment plant, paying attention to the efficiency of those motors can pay dividends. The energy savings associated with switching older motors with premium efficiency motors can be on the order of 4 to 8 percent (NEMA, 2007).

Even if the payback for replacing motors is not significant enough to justify changing them out immediately, seeking out the highest efficiency motors when making new equipment purchases can help to realize a payback upon replacement. All new general-purpose motors are now required to be premium efficiency and therefore likely to be more efficient than older motors, however, special attention must be paid to new submersible motors since they are exempt from the requirement to have premium efficiency motors.

Optimize Pumping Systems

Wastewater treatment plants are often required to pump water at rates that match the rate of arrival of new wastewater in order to minimize storage requirements. Under this scenario, flow control must be applied to pumping systems. The opportunity here is that some methods of flow control are more efficient than others. For example, throttling valves are commonly used for flow control, however, they perform the control via the creation of energy losses in the pipeline.

Variable frequency drives (VFDs) match the rotation of the shaft of the pump with the rotation required to deliver the desired water flow and in doing so, often provide flow control with less energy loss. Using VFDs does produce some heat loss and also requires that the pumps (and VFDs) perform efficiently across the expected range of operation. Therefore, in order to confirm that their application will provide sufficient payback, an analysis should be performed. In addition, if pumps are not operating in their preferred operating range during use they could be wasting significant energy. Consider having an analysis of your system done to determine if improvements need to be made and which solution would work best for the plant.

Developing a Sustainability Plan

Though significant energy is required for wastewater treatment, that energy can be reduced with the application of these suggested improvements. The best way to make sure that your plant takes advantage of opportunities for energy savings is to plan for them by creating a sustainability plan or comprehensive energy management program.

Creating a long-term plan is important. Making changes to major infrastructure can have high capital costs, and it may be best to delay a project until the useful life of the equipment has been exceeded. With a living document to guide decision-making, your plant will be on its way to significant energy savings and a positive contribution to the triple bottom line.

Working with HR Green

HR Green will work with you to look at the big picture for identifying and implementing sustainable solutions. Specifically, we can assist with:

  1. Identifying the highest energy processes at your plant, and identifying those processes with the greatest opportunity for improvement.
  2. Creating a plan for project prioritization based on your preferred method of financial analysis and return on investment requirements.
  3. Providing cost-effective strategies for reducing the energy while achieving permitted discharge limits.
  4. Developing federal, state, and local government funding opportunities such as grants that can reduce the required capital expenditures.
  5. Uncovering other sources of funding such as those available from power utilities.

References

Burton, Franklin L., 1996. Water and Wastewater Industries: Characteristics and Energy Management Opportunities. Report CR 106941 prepared for the Electric Power Research Institute.
Water Environment Federation (WEF), 2009. Manual of Practice (MOP) No. 32: Energy Conservation in Water and Wastewater Facilities. McGraw Hill, New York.
National Electric Manufacturers Association (NEMA), 2006. NEMA Premium: Product Scope and Nominal Efficiency Levels.
EPA, 2010. Evaluation of Energy Conservation Measures for Wastewater Treatment Facilities. EPA 832-R-10-005.

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PFAS Sampling: New Regulations and Implications for Operators

Posted on by Lynn Yeldell

Over the last few years, PFAS have quickly become a buzzword in the water and wastewater industry. PFAS, or Polyfluoroalkyl Substances, are man-made “forever” chemicals used in various products, including nonstick cookware, waterproof clothing, and firefighting foam. These chemicals are extremely persistent and do not naturally break down, leading to widespread contamination.

PFAS are linked to numerous health effects, including increased high blood pressure in pregnant individuals, developmental delays in children, an increased risk of cancer, reduced immune system function, hormonal interference, increased cholesterol levels, and liver damage. PFAS have been widely detected in water systems, wastewater systems, and wastewater biosolids across the country, prompting a push for the EPA to enforce stricter PFAS regulations under the Safe Drinking Water Act.

PFAs Regulation

On April 10, 2024, the EPA implemented new PFAS regulation by adding PFAS to the National Primary Drinking Water Regulation (NPDWR). This regulation established a maximum contaminant level (MCL) for six specific PFAS, including PFOA, PFOS, PFNA, PFHxS, PFBS, and GenX. This list may expand as more PFAS are detected in water supplies. The MCL is an enforceable limit, and the EPA also provides a Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG).

The chart below illustrates the PFAS chemical MCL and MCLG:

PFAS chart

EPA Strategic Roadmap

The EPA acknowledges that the PFAS issue extends beyond drinking water facilities and has developed a strategic roadmap to limit PFAS contamination at the source. This includes finalizing rules for new and existing PFAS use reporting, certifying EPA Method 1633 for PFAS analysis, developing rules to limit manufacturers’ discharges of PFAS, and issuing guidance to states on using NPDES permits to monitor and restrict PFAS discharges. This comprehensive approach supports the enforcement of PFAS regulation at multiple levels, from production to disposal.

What Does This Mean for Operators?

The new regulations will not require PFAS sampling until 2026. Systems not in compliance with the MCL will need to implement a solution to reduce PFAS levels by 2029. If a system still exceeds the MCL by 2029, action must be taken to bring PFAS levels below the MCL. This may include adding treatment options or evaluating alternative water sources.

Initial monitoring will be required to determine if ongoing compliance monitoring is required.

  • 4 quarterly samples for all surface water systems and for groundwater systems serving over 10,000.
  • 2 semi-annual samples for groundwater systems serving below 10,000.

Ongoing monitoring is based on the initial PFAS sampling results. Systems that test lower than the trigger levels will only be required to sample once every three years. Systems that test greater than the trigger levels are required to complete quarterly monitoring until they have four consecutive samples below the trigger level. Then those systems can move to annual sampling and eventually to sampling every three years. If there is a sample above the trigger level, the system returns to quarterly sampling. All sampling results must be available to the public.

There are no waivers allowed for PFAS sampling. When sampling, the results are based on the average of samples, and any sample below the PQL (practical quantitation limit) is considered zero.

PFAS Sampling Do’s and Don’ts

For accurate PFAS sampling, and to avoid contamination of the samples, follow these guidelines:

Do

  • Use an accredited lab 
  • Follow instructions given by the lab and use lab-approved materials for sampling
  • Wear gloves (nitrile)
  • Wear clean, cotton clothes
  • Use PFAS-free blank water for a certificate of analysis
  • Ice samples within 15 minutes of collecting

Don’t

  • Use Teflon tubing, bottles, or caps
  • Use chemical ice packs (Blue ice)
  • Wear cologne, perfume, moisturizers, hand cream, sunscreen, insect repellent or other hygiene products
  • Use aluminum foil, prepackaged food, fast food wrappers or containers
  • Use clothing or boots with Gore-Tex or other synthetic water-resistant and/or stain-resistant materials, Tyvek material, fabric softener
  • Use waterproof/treated paper or field books, plastic clipboards, waterproof markers, post-it notes, or other adhesive paper products
  • Wear new clothes
  • Touch sampling tap with hands or sample bottle

What if PFAS is found in your water supply?

If PFAS is detected in your water supply, you should resample and confirm. Then notify the public and the regulatory agency. Next, try to identify the PFAS source. Do all the water sources contain PFAS? Is there only one well that is positive for PFAS? Systems should evaluate if other water sources could be used that don’t contain PFAS. If the water source cannot be changed, systems should start evaluating treatment options and costs.

Funding for Water Improvements

The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) provides up to $9 billion to address PFAS and other emerging contaminants. Another $4 billion is earmarked for the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund, and $5 billion is reserved for emerging contaminants under the disadvantaged communities grant program. Additionally, $12 billion is available for general water improvements, including PFAS. Several other funding sources are available, including WIFIA and federal loans. The EPA also offers a free technical assistance program for disadvantaged communities.

Treatment for PFAS Removal

There are many treatment options available to remove PFAS. These include granular activated carbon (GAC), reverse osmosis (RO), ion exchange, and nanofiltration. All these options will likely be implemented after existing treatment and before disinfection.

  • GAC uses activated carbon to filter and adsorb contaminants. Over time, the carbon media would need to be disposed of.
  • Reverse osmosis uses membranes to filter contaminants using high pressure. There is a treated stream and a waste stream. Systems would need to safely treat the discharge from the waste RO stream.
  • Ion exchange causes PFAS, which are negatively charged, to attach to the positively charged ions in the filter. Similar to the GAC, the media filters need to be removed or backwashed.
  • Nanofiltration uses very small filters to filter out the PFAS. The filters require backwashing and treatment or discharge of the backwash wastewater.

Partner with HR Green for PFAS Compliance

Navigating the new PFAS regulations and achieving EPA compliance can be challenging for any water and wastewater facility. With new standards coming into effect, it’s essential for operators to stay informed and proactive. At HR Green, we offer comprehensive support to help you address these challenges effectively and efficiently.

From feasibility studies through construction phase services, our team of dedicated water engineering professionals is committed to delivering reliable, cost-effective, and innovative solutions tailored to your specific needs. We work closely with both public and private sector clients, understanding their unique challenges and developing the right solutions to meet those needs. Our focus on schedules and budgets means we prioritize your interests while adhering to established timeframes and financial constraints.

Our PFAS Engineering Services include:

  • Planning + Feasibility
  • Design
  • Funding Assistance
  • Wells + Well Fields
  • Storage
  • Liquid Treatment
  • Solids Handling
  • Construction Phase
  • Regulatory and Permitting

If you’re looking to navigate the new PFAS sampling regulations and enhance your water and wastewater systems, we invite you to reach out to our team. Let’s discuss how our services can support your project goals and help you stay compliant with the latest standards. Contact us today to learn more about how we can assist you in achieving your water management objectives.

Contact HR Green Water

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Celebrating Our Team on Professional Engineers Day

Posted on by Lynn Yeldell

On August 8, 1907, the first professional engineering license was issued to Charles Bellamy in Wyoming. Over a century later, the civil engineering industry vastly grew as our nation’s infrastructure expanded coast to coast. To celebrate our professional engineers’ commitment to protecting public health, safety, and welfare, the National Society of Professional Engineers dedicated a day to PEs. 

At HR Green, we want to recognize our own team members who are licensed professional engineers. Hear stories from their careers and what being professional engineers means to them.

Meet Professional Engineers at HR Green

ayo bello

Ayobamidele Bello, PE – Regional Manager | Texas Water + Wastewater

How did your interest in civil engineering begin?

I grew up in Nigeria, West Africa. My dad was a civil engineer and surveyor when I was little. So from that early age, I’ve always wanted to be an engineer. In high school, you start getting prepped for what career you want when you graduate. At that point, I was leaning towards chemical engineering. I graduated in chemical engineering, but when I transferred to the U.S. to finish my undergraduate education, I decided to pick up environmental engineering as a second major. Just after graduation, my first job was in New Orleans to help rebuild New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina. From then I gravitated towards the engineering civil side. I enjoy knowing that at least what I do on a daily basis helps the community. It’s basically a fundamental expectation, at least in our world, to have clean water.

What advice do you have for other engineering professionals?

I was fortunate enough that my college professors were all previously employed in the private sector and stressed the importance of trying to get a PE license. It was also a requirement for graduation in my program to take the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam, a primary step in achieving a PE license. So at least from that standpoint, I know not all engineering students have that luxury. 

My advice is to take the FE exam as soon as possible once finishing your education. Most of the knowledge base of the test has to do with what you learn in school. So the quicker you can take it and pass the exam, the faster you can go towards at least trying to take the professional engineering exam. 

Andi Davis, PE – Project Engineer | Transportation 

What fulfillment do you get from your career as a professional engineer?

It means a lot for me. I just love being in a career where I can have a positive impact on people in the community. And working on projects local to my area is so neat – it’s so fulfilling as a career to be able to design something and see it through and know that you’re having a positive impact on people. I have worked on projects that quite a few people that I know personally have to drive through every day and just getting a few words of positive feedback from them is everything.

Is there a project that stands out to you since becoming a licensed professional engineer?

I would say one of my standout projects in my career was actually a roundabout project here in the St. Louis area. It was a design of two roundabouts and widening a third roundabout in one corridor. There was also a pedestrian component for pedestrians and cyclists. We had a tunnel that was going underneath the roundabout for a trail system that connected two sides of a trail system that were previously just disjointed.

I was in the middle of this roundabout design project when I actually got my professional engineering license. I had some really great mentorship throughout, and I would just say that was one of the projects that I don’t think I’ll ever forget because I learned so much on that job. I was able to really show myself what I could do. It was really neat to be able to work on something local. Then once constructed, to be able to actually drive on something that you designed.

Victoria Dieu, PE – Project Engineer | Transportation

Have you always been interested in transportation?

I was really interested in structures going in. I wanted to do bridges, but then I took a graduate class that was focused on storm sewer design. Once I picked up the storm sewer stuff, it was really fun to do. Working with CAD is like playing a game. When you run your designs and everything comes out perfect, it’s the most satisfying, bringing your designs from your head to life.

What is the most fulfilling part of your job?

I just like learning new things, and there never seems to be an end to the new things I can work on. I feel like if I was doing the same thing every day, I get pretty bored of it.  But in the engineering field, there’s so much to learn that there’s never a stopping point to the things you can learn. 

Francisco Colón, PE – Project Manager | Fiber & Broadband Services

What is the most fulfilling part of your job?

I like to spend my working time building things that really help society, not just making something just to gain money. I like to feel like I’m putting my grain of salt in the development of society. I believe, in the telecommunications industry, we are building the nervous system of this society where we can make people communicate further and further while collaborating faster and faster. I can provide value to society and feel great about it.

What does it mean to be a professional engineer? 

As a professional, an engineer, you will be the person that makes sure that the solutions that are being used for specific problems are optimum and economical, but most importantly, safe for the people out there. So as professional engineers, we are responsible for the solutions that your company or yourself are putting out there, which are sound, concrete, economical and most importantly safe for everyone.

Licensure Resources at HR Green

We are here to support you every step of the way in achieving your professional registrations and licensure. We understand the importance of these credentials and the positive impact they can have on your career. When you are ready, our team is here to guide and assist you throughout the entire process. We applaud your achievements and are committed to helping you succeed in your career.

  • Time Off With Pay – We provide you the time off to study, focus, and take each professional registration exam.
  • Expense Reimbursement – We reimburse for travel expenses, application/exam fees, study materials, and classes for initial professional licenses.
  • Bonus – Once you attain your professional licensure or certification, you are eligible for a bonus in recognition of your hard work.

Professional Engineer Careers at HR Green

HR Green’s mission is to build communities and improve lives. From internships to senior-level positions, HR Green offers career opportunities throughout our geographies. We look for professionals who are highly aligned to our goals and values while allowing individuals and groups the autonomy to achieve their full potential. 

We encourage, equip, challenge, and cultivate our employees to be leaders in our company and their communities. With HR Green you will have opportunities to grow and thrive in an environment that allows you to enjoy your work while building lasting relationships and a legacy of mutual success.

Whether you are already a licensed professional engineer or a recent graduate planning on working toward certification, you will find support through careers and professional development programs HR Green.

Engineering Career Opportunities

HR Green’s 2024 Internship Highlights

Posted on by Lynn Yeldell

At HR Green, we take pride in our internship program, providing aspiring engineers with a professional work environment to learn and grow. We aim to empower interns, fostering their talents as they experience diverse projects that offer a comprehensive view of the engineering world. Interns are challenged and mentored, gaining hands-on experience in various engineering disciplines. We offer opportunities during the summer and throughout the school year, with multiple office locations to explore. Our inclusive and supportive environment encourages creativity, innovation, and collaboration, setting interns on a path to success.

“I was surprised by the variety of work. I’ve worked on nine different types of projects during my internship, which is perfect for someone trying to figure out what they want to do.”

We are thrilled to announce that 61 talented interns representing various locations and business lines have joined our company. 

HR Green Internship Program By The Numbers

HR Green engineering intern by the numbers

As part of our commitment to fostering talent, we can’t wait to share glimpses of our team in action! Throughout the internship program, we’ll capture moments of camaraderie, learning, and innovation that define the HR Green spirit. Expect to witness their growth, from tackling exciting projects to celebrating milestones together.

“This is my third summer with HR Green. During the first two summers, I was in the construction business line, so I was out in the field. I really liked that work because I got to see how to build the stuff that we design and I think that’s invaluable. And then this summer, I’m in the office, part of the structures group in the transportation business line, and I’ve really liked being in the office because of the work culture right now.”

“While working at HR Green, the community and environment surprised me the most. I had no experience with private sector companies before, so I wasn’t sure what to expect outside of the stereotypical ‘engineer at a desk all-day’ thought. Seeing all the YP (Young Professional) events and bonding opportunities made me feel less of an employee and more included.”

“Interning at HR Green has been a wonderful experience because of my genuine team and the overall welcoming culture. I truly feel included and valued here, making it an ideal environment for both personal and professional growth.”

Engineering Internships at HR Green

Our hands-on approach to learning bridges theory and practice. Interns work on real-world projects guided by seasoned professionals. This experience builds confidence and expertise that will benefit interns throughout their careers. 

“I was surprised at how willing certain members of my section were to take considerable time out of their day to explain things and help me with my questions.”

Embrace the future of engineering with HR Green. Be part of a legacy that spans over a century. Our internship program offers inspiration, growth, and a community dedicated to Building Communities and Improving Lives. Let us ignite your passion for engineering and guide you on a journey of endless possibilities. Together, we’ll shape a better world, one project at a time.

Explore the summer engineering internship opportunities available in your location.

Engineering Internship Opportunities

Key Considerations During ISP Broadband Implementation

Posted on by Lynn Yeldell

Broadband projects require specialized construction methods and experienced personnel. Vast knowledge of broadband construction can mitigate project risks and improve outcomes. Municipal staff can benefit from training and development programs that enhance their skills and prepare them for the specific demands of broadband projects. This support helps municipalities handle the complexities of broadband deployment effectively.

Permit Volume Management

High-volume broadband projects, often spanning 6 months to 4 years, can overwhelm municipal resources. The accelerated pace of these projects, driven by ISPs’ need for rapid infrastructure deployment, requires municipalities to manage permit volumes efficiently. Strategies such as prioritizing projects, improving workflow, and utilizing electronic plan review systems can help municipalities maintain efficiency and prevent resource strain.

ROW Impacts and Management

Broadband deployment can have immediate and widespread impacts on ROW. To manage these impacts and facilitate compliance with municipal standards, municipalities should adopt best practices for minimizing disruptions. This includes thorough planning, regular communication with contractors, and robust inspection protocols. Effective ROW management safeguards public infrastructure and maintains community standards during broadband projects.

Fort Dodge Utilizes an Owner’s Representative

In Fort Dodge, Iowa, HR Green served as an Owner’s Representative for the city’s municipal network project. This role included design, contractor management, inspection, and material handling responsibilities. Through this collaboration, construction was completed per design specifications, demonstrating the benefits of having a dedicated representative to oversee broadband projects. This approach not only streamlined the process but also facilitated successful outcomes, as evidenced by Fort Dodge’s enhanced connectivity and community satisfaction.

Specialized Staff

Broadband construction uses highly specific and specialized construction methods to deploy millions of feet of cable to pass ALL homes and businesses in a market. This can leave municipalities understaffed and unequipped to address the volume and applied construction methods with existing permit and construction requirements.

Palm Desert Overcomes Staffing Constraints

The City of Palm Desert, California, a cultural and retail hub within Coachella Valley, sought to advance key initiatives but faced constraints with a small municipal staff. HR Green partnered with the city to provide plan checks, city engineering, and surveying. Since 2021, this partnership has facilitated the approval of over 1,060 new homes and 192,000 square feet of commercial space. By leveraging electronic review processes and fostering collaboration across departments, HR Green has streamlined approvals, significantly saving time and resources for the City and developers.

HR Green partnered with the City of Denton, Texas, to tackle a similar problem. HR Green was enlisted to evaluate and recommend improvements in practices, clear the backlog, and implement a proactive, paperless, and electronic review model.

Navigating Broadband Implementation with HR Green

Timely permit reviews and ROW agreements are crucial for meeting project timelines. Municipalities can streamline review processes by adopting electronic plan review systems, which enhance efficiency and reduce delays. These systems enable faster, more accurate reviews, helping municipalities keep pace with broadband project demands and avoid bottlenecks.

Successful broadband implementation requires careful consideration of permit management and review efficiency. HR Green’s Municipal Broadband Oversight Services offer tailored solutions to help municipalities manage these aspects effectively. Explore our broadband services to discover how our experience can facilitate smooth broadband deployment in your community.

Prepare your community for the broadband infrastructure surge. Discover how HR Green’s Municipal Broadband Oversight services can streamline your response and navigate resource and regulatory challenges. 

Discover Our Municipal Broadband Oversight Services

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The Success of the Project Management Consultant (PMC) Delivery Method with MoDOT

Posted on by Lynn Yeldell

Addressing the complexities of infrastructure development requires adaptable and innovative project management strategies. The Project Management Consultant (PMC) delivery method has proven effective by offering a versatile solution tailored to fit the diverse needs of any transportation department.

This method was successfully implemented by the Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) in collaboration with HR Green, setting a benchmark in transportation project consultant support.

The Need for a Project Management Consultant

Today, transportation departments face challenges such as unique funding requirements, staffing shortages, and project complexities. These issues call for a shift from traditional methods to more innovative project delivery solutions. The PMC delivery method requires trust and offers flexibility, adapting to each project’s specific needs.

The PMC delivery method is an evolution in managing transportation projects. It involves engaging a consultant to act as the transportation agency’s internal project manager, overseeing all phases, from inception through design and construction.

HR Green and MoDOT: A Pilot Success Story

The Route 94 / Route 364 / Muegge Road Interchange improvements project was facing unique funding parameters, staff shortages, and complexity. MoDOT enlisted HR Green to pioneer the PMC delivery method.

The PMC, situated within the MoDOT team, delivered a design concept, converted it to construction plans for bidding in a traditional design-bid-build format, managed the construction, and saw the project through to completion.

As the PMC, we are responsible for all internal transportation agency requirements. Examples include managing internal stakeholders, overseeing project budgets, scheduling project reviews, and reporting project progress to the organization’s leaders. This requires strong communication skills and removing the barriers between clients and consultants that can exist in traditionally structured projects.

To be successful, the PMC must have access to the transportation agency’s network to manage project files and communication. Basically, the PMC must be given similar access rights to an agency employee in a similar position.  Without this level of trust, the PMC model will not be effective. When fully functional, the PMC adds additional capacity to deliver projects that otherwise cannot be accomplished with current staffing levels.

The aim is for the public not to discern between the department and PMC staff, indicating seamless integration. This approach not only benefits the client by providing an extension of their team but also maintains public confidence in project delivery. The project not only met but exceeded expectations in addressing complex project challenges.

Looking Forward: The Future of PMC with HR Green

The success story of the MoDOT PMC pilot program led to additional PMC projects even before the completion of the initial Interchange project. This reflects a growing acknowledgment of the PMC’s value as an essential tool for public agencies.

The St. Louis County Department of Transportation and the Illinois Department of Transportation each selected HR Green for similar PMC programs. These developments underscore a broader recognition of the PMC approach as a viable solution to the challenges faced by transportation departments.

The Expanding Value of PMC

HR Green’s role in the successful pilot with MoDOT has positioned the firm as a leader in the PMC process. Our team has a deep understanding of facilitating a smooth project flow and minimizing risks related to cost, safety, schedule, and unforeseen challenges.

This new service represents a significant advancement in how transportation departments can address their challenges. HR Green invites other transportation departments to consider this innovative solution.

For those ready to explore how the PMC delivery method can benefit their projects, HR Green stands as a ready and experienced partner. Together we can achieve more successful, efficient, and innovative project results.

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