Environmental Protection Logo

Poll

Toxics

A Shock to the System

June 1, 2006By Darin St. Germain

A new, stricter arsenic rule is starting to affect small and large water supplies

On Jan. 23, 2006, the arsenic rule was implemented with a new limit of 10 parts per billion (ppb) (the old standard was 50 ppb). The new rule has a broad reach; it affects large and small drinking water treatment systems, including non-community water supplies.

Water Quality Management 101

October 1, 2005By W. Wesley Eckenfelder, William Ney Hansard

A basic overview of the key concepts related to treating municipal and industrial wastewater

Over the past few decades there has been an increased awareness of the importance of water quality. Many municipalities and industrial facilities have upgraded or installed new technologies to meet the demand for clean water. Advances in water quality science show that further improvements are needed to ensure a plentiful water supply and to protect the natural environment.

Tackling Tough Contaminants

November 1, 2004By Russell A. Schuck, PG

Successful remediation of recalcitrant compounds starts with comprehensive site characterization

There are numerous case studies of failed remedial systems, which in turn can be linked to the remedial design team not fully understanding the site conditions. Often the most effective way to clean up these recalcitrant sites is source/migration control rather than intrusive remediation. The best solution can only be determined if the site is properly understood.

Arsenic Removal Arsenal

February 1, 2004By Darin St. Germain

An overview of treatment options for successfully cleaning up contaminated drinking water supplies in compliance with the new stricter arsenic standard

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has historically regulated arsenic at 50 parts per billion (ppb), but the agency will lower the maximum contaminant level (MCL) for arsenic to 10 ppb by 2006. Some states are even setting their own limits well below this level.