ALEXANDRIA, VA, March 6, 2008 -- The Water Environment Federation (WEF) announces the launch of the Private Property Virtual Library (PPVL), a new repository of information about wastewater utilities' private property-related programs that address inflow and infiltration (I/I) in sanitary sewer systems, as well as building sewer maintenance issues.
As the collection systems in the United States age, deteriorating pipe conditions and the growing problem of I/I -- an excess of storm and groundwater entering sanitary sewer systems -- is placing an increased demand on wastewater utilities and can ultimately lead to sanitary sewer overflows (SSOs), even after the public sewer mains have been repaired or replaced. Many utility managers must decide which is the most feasible and cost effective solution for their community: to treat excess sewer flows from I/I at a wastewater treatment facility; to contain SSOs by constructing large storage structures; or to remove I/I entering the public sanitary sewer system through privately-owned building service connections.
Working on the issue since the mid-1990's, WEF's Collection Systems Committee conducted a highly successful webcast on private property issues in 2005 and began gathering information about successful private property programs across the country. Intended as a resource for utilities seeking information or advice about private property programs, the PPVL aims to improve private property systems nationwide by providing a forum for utilities to compare technologies and solutions, alleviate complications, share experiences, and exchange ideas. Focus areas include: sanitary lateral repair or replacement; I/I source detection and elimination; lateral condition assessment; privately owned pump station operation and maintenance; and sewer easements.
"The PPVL is a great starting place for any utility that is looking to develop a private property program or enhance an existing program," said Charles Martin, Director of the Division of Water and Air Quality of Lexington-Fayette Urban County Government (Ky.). "It is an easily-accessible, central location to get the most current information on what other utilities are doing related to private property issues, including lessons learned on what has worked and what hasn't worked."
To date, more than 25 utilities have shared detailed information on their successful programs for the PPVL, which will be updated and expanded as more communities share their successes and additional private property related challenges are identified. Current library resources include an interactive discussion board, sample questionnaires, public education materials, letters to residents, ordinances and codes, operating and maintenance procedures, and design details and specifications.
For more information, visit: www.wef.org/PrivateProperty
Formed in 1928, the Water Environment Federation (WEF) is a not-for-profit technical and educational organization with more than 34,000 individual members and 81 affiliated Member Associations representing an additional 50,000 water quality professionals throughout the world.
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