Yearly Archives: 2014


SMG attends MSD Stormwater Training

POV

I had the pleasure of attending Construction Field Day training presented by Louisville/Jefferson County Metropolitan Sewer District (MSD) this week.  Sessions focused on topics such as industrial stormwater inspections, hazardous materials use and spill prevention planning (HMPC Plans), Louisville’s consent decree and MS4 permit compliance requirements, green best management practices (BMPs), the qualified post construction […]


State Geologist Retires

POV

Dr. Jim Cobb, a friend and colleague, retired last month as the State Geologist and Director of the Kentucky Geological Survey after 34 years of service at UK.  Jim was our 12th state geologist fourth to serve since the Survey was transferred to UK in 1948. He was state geologist from 1999 to 2014.  Dr. […]


EPA Warning on Recharging Air Conditioners with Wrong Refrigerant

POV

EPA is cautioning homeowners, manufacturers of propane-based refrigerants, home improvement contractors and air conditioning technicians of the safety hazards related to the use of propane in existing motor vehicle and home air conditioning systems. Number of refrigerants with “22a” or “R-22a” contain highly flammable hydrocarbons, such as propane. Using propane based refrigerant in an air […]


Municipal Wastewater Planning for Prolonged Rainfall Events

POV

Prolonged rainfall and flooding recently forced a Fountain City (WI) to take drastic measures to prevent treatment bypasses to the Mississippi.  Residents were asked to limit water usage as much as possible by “taking sponge baths” and “only flushing the toilet if absolutely necessary”.  Reportedly, the treatment plant was operating at six times the normal […]


EPA Releases Final Risk Assessment on TCE and Holds Public Workshop

POV

EPA has finalized the revised risk assessment for Trichloroethene under the TSCA Risk Assessment Program.  Information concerning the risk assessment including a fact sheet can be found at http://www.epa.gov/oppt/existingchemicals/pubs/riskassess.html .  On July 29-30, 2014, EPA plans to hold an experts workshop on TCE alternatives and risk reeducation approaches.