November 19, 2014
Metropolitan North Georgia Water Planning District
REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS 2016 Water Resource Management Plan Update The Metropolitan North Georgia Water Planning District (the District) is soliciting proposals to prepare updates to the 2009 Water Supply and Water Conservation, Wastewater, and Watershed Management Plans. The District is requesting proposals from consulting firms, or teams of firms, to determine the project approach, schedule, and cost. The District reserves the right to negotiate scope and fee prior to contract award. The District estimates that funding available for this work will be approximately $1,100,000. Please provide a description of the proposed approach your firm, either individually or in cooperation with other firms, would take to accomplish the tasks outlined in the Scope of Work provided in Exhibit A. The proposal shall provide a schedule, and include time in the schedule for review of reports and deliverables by stakeholders and the public as discussed in the Scope of Work. The proposal should provide project cost estimates in the format provided in Exhibit B and B1. The consultant shall determine the level of effort for each task of the Scope of Work which must be clearly provided in the proposal. This level of effort is to be presented in a format which includes the total man-hours and cost for each task. The District will convene an evaluation committee. The evaluation committee will review all proposals and make a consultant selection recommendation to the Chairman of the District Board. Based on the responses to this request, the District may identify a short list of firms from the proposals received. The shortlisted firms will be invited to participate in an interview process with the evaluation committee. The District reserves the right to award this contract based on proposals received without interviews. The District intends to award a contract for the project in the first quarter of 2015. The consultant shall provide a schedule of major milestones and interim deliverables demonstrating a final document approved by the Governing Board and delivered to the Georgia Environmental Protection Division (EPD) by September 15, 2016. The successful consultant or team of consultants should be
Metropolitan North Georgia Water Planning District 2016 Water Resource Management Plan Update prepared to begin work immediately. The District reserves the right to award all or part of the available funds for this project. The contract will be awarded to the consultant determined to be the most qualified to perform the work based on the following evaluation criteria: 1. Qualifications and experience related to the scope of work of the firm (or team of firms) and individuals in the firm directly assigned to the project. (40 percent) 2. Proposed approach to address the attached Scope of Work in developing an effective Water Resource Management Plan Update for the 15-county District. (40 percent) 3. Approach to stakeholder and public involvement, and ability to communicate effectively. (10 percent) 4. Consultant’s cost estimates versus work provided. The cost estimate shall follow the format outlined in Exhibit B. (10 percent) Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (DBE) shall have equal opportunity to participate in the performance of the District’s contracts. Such DBEs are encouraged to compete, as prime consultant, consultant team members or sub-consultants and should be so identified in responses to this RFP. Proposals should be limited to a total of no more than 25 pages (not including cover, table of contents, divider sheets, resumes, and cost proposal) and should include the following information: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.
Name of the lead firm, and other firms or sub-consultants; Point of contact (name, title, email address and phone #) at lead firm; Project Manager (name, title and phone number) at lead firm; Qualifications and technical competence of consultant and sub-consultants; Description of consultant’s similar experience on projects related to the Scope of Work; Provide three references with current contact information (name, title, email address, and phone #); 7. Identification of specific personnel committed to work on the project, the office locations of this personnel, and a description of their education and experience directly related to the Scope of Work. Provide one to two page resumes of key staff as an appendix to the proposal; 8. A proposed work plan including: a. approach to accomplishing the work described in Exhibit A; b. schedule, interim deliverables and milestones; c. reasons for proposed task additions, modifications, or expansions; 9. A proposed project cost proposal in the format of Exhibit B and B1 to this RFP (not included in the page limit); 10. Any other pertinent information including potential additional services beyond the scope of work.
Metropolitan North Georgia Water Planning District 2016 Water Resource Management Plan Update The 2009 Water Supply and Conservation Management Plan, Wastewater Management Plan and Watershed Management Plan are available online at: http://www.northgeorgiawater.org/publications/metro-water-district-publications Questions shall be received no later than December 3, 2014 at 5:00 p.m and should be submitted in writing to Danny Johnson (
[email protected]). Pertinent information, including questions and responses, from written questions will be posted on the District website (www.northgeorgiawater.org) by December 8, 2014. No other direct contact related to this Request for Proposal between prospective consultants and the District staff or Board members is permitted. The District must receive twelve (12) printed copies of the proposal, as well as an electronic copy in Microsoft Word or PDF format (on CD or thumb drive), no later than 5:00 p.m. on December 17, 2014. No responses received after this date and time will be considered. Font size should be a minimum of 11 point. The delivery package shall be labeled: 2016 Water Resource Management Plan Update RFP Proposals shall be delivered to the following address: Metropolitan North Georgia Water Planning District ATTN: Danny Johnson 40 Courtland Street, NE Atlanta, GA 30303
Exhibit A SCOPE OF WORK MAJOR UPDATE OF THE WATER RESOURCE MANAGEMENT PLANS FOR THE METROPOLITAN NORTH GEORGIA WATER PLANNING DISTRICT
Overview The purpose of this scope of work is to develop a major update to the Water Resource Management Plan (“the plan”) for the Metropolitan North Georgia Water Planning District (“the District”) as required under O.C.G.A. §12-5-570 Et seq. The District is the entity responsible for watershed and stormwater management, wastewater management, and water supply and conservation management planning within the 15-county metropolitan area which includes Bartow, Cherokee, Clayton, Cobb, Coweta, DeKalb, Douglas, Fayette, Forsyth, Fulton, Gwinnett, Hall, Henry, Paulding, and Rockdale Counties. The District is governed by a 26 member Governing Board made of 16 elected officials and 10 citizen members appointed by the Governor, Lieutenant Governor, and Speaker of the House. The District also includes six Basin Advisory Councils (BACs) to provide a forum for stakeholder input and a Technical Coordination Committee (TCC) made up of local government staff. The District last updated and adopted the plan in 2009. The primary objectives of the 2016 plan update are listed below: 1) Using the 2009 plan as a foundation, build on or modify sections that need improvement while addressing new requirements and challenges as described in this scope of work. 2) Update the plan consistent with Georgia Environmental Division (EPD) guidance, District Governing Board, TCC and BACs guidance and the scope of work detailed below. 3) Advance the District’s on-going approach to integrated water planning. 4) Update the plan with the most current data and information covering a wide range of areas including management issues, plant capacities, demand forecasts, etc. The plan update will be prepared with involvement of local governments, State agencies, the District’s TCC and BACs, other regional water planning councils and other interested stakeholders. The plan update will also build upon and be coordinated with existing planning and regulatory activities being undertaken by local governments within the District, regional and state governmental agencies, as well as with plans being developed by the State, including the Regional Water Plans. The consultant’s proposal shall identify the steps necessary to update the plan. The proposal shall address the tasks identified within this scope of work. The proposal shall recommend interim reports and milestones and provide time in the schedule for review of such reports and milestone materials by the TCC, BAC, District Governing Board, the public and District staff as described in Task 1. The proposal should provide a schedule broken down by task. Consistent with the details of this scope of work, the selected consultant will: Be responsible for preparation, at the direction of the District Manager, of an updated plan to be completed by November 2016 compliant with the State Water Plan, State water rules and laws.
Metro Water District 2016 Water Resource Plan Update RFP Scope of Work
Consider the summary of Goals and Objectives for the 2016 plan update technical memo (see Appendix A) from the TCC and BAC meetings in 2014. Review the Utility Climate Resiliency Study results (work performed under separate contract) with the TCC to consider recommendations for inclusion within the management plan update. The final draft of the Utility Climate Resiliency Study is anticipated in the spring of 2015. Evaluate specific recommendations related to the District from the other Regional Water Council plans adopted in 2011 and draft 2016 plan updates for potential inclusion within the District’s management plan update. Review the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers draft Water Control Manual Update for the Chattahoochee River system as well as the final Water Control Manual Update for the Coosa River system.
Task 1 - Integration One of the primary objectives of the 2016 plan update is to advance the District’s on-going approach to integrated water planning by, among other things, revising the existing plan into an integrated water plan. Task 1 serves as an “umbrella” to guide the tasks detailed in the remainder of the scope of work. Therefore, all tasks completed for the Water Supply / Water Conservation, Wastewater, Watershed, and Public Education and Outreach sections will be completed within the context of the District’s approach to integrated water planning. 2009 Plan and Policy Review The consultant will review and examine: 1) The 2009 Water Supply and Water Conservation, Wastewater and Watershed Management Plans. 2) Policy changes, regulatory changes, and/or implementation actions taken by local governments, authorities, regional agencies, State and Federal agencies, business interests and other affected entities and stakeholders since the plan’s adoption in 2009. 3) Additional information from the Georgia Environmental Protection Division (EPD) guidance, EPD rulemaking, District annual implementation questionnaires and reports, District annual plan surveys, EPD local government audits, District TCC and BAC meeting summaries, other public comments received by the District and other sources as appropriate. The purpose and outcome of this sub-task is to: 1) Evaluate both the successes and challenges in addressing the plan’s requirements and policy goals. 2) Identify opportunities for combining or enhancing actions to realize maximum benefit. 3) Identify: Redundancies Unintended consequences Overlap that could be translated into multiple benefits Conflicts between action items and other plan content Cost and benefit tradeoffs at a coarse scale Impact of water management goals Other plan elements relevant to advancing the District’s approach to integrated water planning 4) Review and refine goals articulated in the plan in order to enhance their ability to guide and be used to assess the quality of and outcomes of implementation activities – both with regard to the region’s water resources as well as satisfactorily implementing the plan’s action items.
2
Metro Water District 2016 Water Resource Plan Update RFP Scope of Work The consultant will summarize the findings and provide key recommendations resulting from the analysis as they relate to plan implementation. The summary will be provided in the form of a PowerPoint presentation to District staff with sufficient detail to document the findings. Future Plan Evaluation The consultant will identify plan elements to be reviewed and updated regularly by the District. This will include recommendations for key plan elements to be monitored on an annual basis as well as recommendations for the 2021 Plan Update. The consultant will also provide recommendations to measure the progress of action items implemented across the District. Integrated Modeling The consultant will develop an integrated model to integrate past District plan initiatives in order to achieve, among other goals, identification of interdependencies between water supply, wastewater and stormwater management as well as the interactions and effects of given management actions on specific elements of the District’s water resources. The model will be capable of representing existing strategies, as well as options for including possible new integrated strategies for the 2016 plan update to understand their impacts and their potential benefits. The potential interrelationships to assess include, but are not limited to, the impacts of given practices on assimilative capacity, baseflow, flow regimes, drought & flood responses, and water quality. Where feasible, consideration of cost and benefit tradeoffs will also be included in the modeling approach in order to improve planning and resultant decision making. The objectives of the integrated model are as follows: Run dynamically and interactively between water, wastewater and stormwater systems Be capable of running quickly for evaluating scenarios and alternatives in a meeting setting Provide metrics on supply reliability, water quality, wastewater assimilative capacity, stormwater runoff, and high-level environmental/watershed impacts Be visually engaging and highly graphical The consultant shall develop a modeling plan defining the appropriate model development approach so that it syncs with the plan update objectives and performance measures as defined by the stakeholders in a series of workshops. At a minimum, the modeling plan will include: Software selection Necessary resolution for evaluations Planning horizon Calibration and review with District Manager Scenario definition and flexibility of formulation during stakeholder meetings Techniques for uncertainty and sensitivity analysis (forms of “risk”) Schedule for stakeholder involvement The consultant will operate the completed, integrated model to test and assess recommended strategies as formulated by the District and its stakeholders. The consultant will provide guidance as to potential strategies to be considered. The consultant will participate in stakeholder meetings to run the model in real-time based on feedback and provide results at that time. The model will also be used to refine and adapt the integrated strategies based on results.
3
Metro Water District 2016 Water Resource Plan Update RFP Scope of Work The consultant shall include distinct recommendations and proposed options for using the model in the short-term (i.e. during the 2016 update), during implementation between updates as well as subsequent updates. Revise Action Items The format for all action items will be revised to highlight their multiple benefits and to cross-reference other action items that achieve similar or related outcomes. In addition to formatting, each action item will be revised, at a minimum, to address the following: Regulatory requirements List of other Action Items impacted Other Benefits Cost and Implementation Funding Strategies The current plans contain basic information on costs of implementation actions. However, to assist local governments in identifying and prioritizing both projects and funding options, more detailed analyses of costs are needed. The current plans also highlight various implementation funding sources, but provide only basic information on how these sources may interact or be leveraged. A hallmark of integrated planning is achieving multiple benefits, which should also include options for innovative implementation funding and strategies. The consultant will review and update the Implementation Funding options and develop new funding strategies to reflect integrated action items and approaches to water management. These funding strategies will include detailed analyses of costs and innovative implementation funding sources and packages. This review, update, and development should include, but not be limited to: Thinking beyond traditional funding methods, Leveraging loans and grants, Combining different grants / funding sources for a single project, Using local funds to enhance grants, loans, and other state and federal sources of funding, Contact information for each listed funding mechanism (i.e. agency and program), A minimum of three project case studies per plan section relating action items (Wastewater, Water Conservation and Supply and Watershed Management). These case studies will: o Describe how local governments / utilities (from within or outside any appropriate US jurisdiction) have implemented projects using creative funding packages, o Include a discussion of cost and benefit tradeoffs reflecting project selection rationale (including other projects that may have been under consideration), o Include direct and indirect benefits, deferred costs, and life cycle costs. Coordination with Other Regional Commission Initiatives The consultant will identify any draft comprehensive plans being updated during the District Plan update by the Regional Commissions that overlap with the District’s geography. Specifically, For the Atlanta Regional Commission’s update of “The Regional Plan,” the consultant will, based on both plan update schedules and in coordination with the District Manager, support District staff’s plan coordination activities to improve selected linkages between the two plans. This support will be limited to approximately two to four specific coordination points.
4
Metro Water District 2016 Water Resource Plan Update RFP Scope of Work
For any other regional commission comprehensive plan updates, the consultant will coordinate with the District Manager in developing a recommended approach to coordination, if any.
The consultant will also update the District’s land-use table information, similar to Table 4-1 of the 2009 plans, with that produced by the respective Regional Commissions. Meetings / Stakeholder and Public Involvement The consultant will be expected to attend periodic stakeholder meetings, TCC, BACs, and District Board meetings as directed by the District Manager. Representatives from Georgia EPD will participate as active stakeholders throughout the plan update process; however, the District anticipates holding periodic plan review meetings with EPD staff. The consultant will be expected to attend up to three periodic review meetings with Georgia EPD. The consultant will develop meeting summaries following each meeting. All meetings will take place within the 15 county District region. The consultant’s proposal shall include a schedule for anticipated meetings including number of consultant staff members attending. The cost for periodic project coordination meetings with District staff should be included in other tasks. The process to update the plan will include a public and stakeholder involvement process utilizing the BACs and TCC in distinct, creative and various ways. The consultant will help the District Manager identify target audiences for various interim work products and conceptual coordination in addition to these groups. The District Manager will coordinate meeting announcements, meeting agenda, location and logistics, as well as meeting summaries and press releases, as needed. The consultant will periodically and upon request provide PowerPoint presentations to the District Manager that summarize work in progress and discussion items to solicit feedback from stakeholders. The consultant will utilize the audience response system (provided by the District) when appropriate to gather real time surveys of stakeholders. A fact sheet for the final integrated water management plan will be developed at the completion of the final documents for distribution by the District to stakeholders and the public. Distribution of Materials All interim reports, milestone materials, drafts and final plans will be delivered to the District Manager in digital format to allow printing and posting on the District website and/or distribution via email. Appropriate digital formats include Microsoft Word, Adobe PDF, GIS data and all corresponding map project files, as well as supporting Microsoft Excel files. The District will print and publish interim reports and draft and final plans as needed. Preparation of an Integrated District Plan The plan will include results and deliverables from tasks detailed throughout this scope of work. The plan will be published primarily as a digital document and as such, the consultant will make use of innovative ways to make the document user friendly (e.g. electronic indexing). The hard copy publication will be prepared as a single document with individual sections addressing the three water resource categories of Water Supply and Water Conservation, Wastewater and Watershed. The following deliverable schedule is provided as a minimum framework for the review and delivery of draft and final documents. The review schedule may be refined as recommended by the consultant to help establish an efficient work flow for plan development. Prepare Initial Draft Plan for Staff Review The consultant will prepare an Initial Draft Plan report for review by the District staff. 5
Metro Water District 2016 Water Resource Plan Update RFP Scope of Work Prepare Preliminary Draft Plan for Committee Review The consultant will revise the Initial Draft Plan based upon staff comments and prepare a Preliminary Draft Plan report for review by the District’s Technical Coordinating Committee and Basin Advisory Councils. Prepare Draft Plan for Board Review The consultant will revise the Preliminary Draft Plan and prepare a Draft Plan for review by the District Board. Prepare Draft Plan for Public Comment The consultant will make revisions and modifications requested by the District Board and produce a Draft Plan report for release for public comment. Final Draft Plan Following receipt of comments from the public, the consultant will assist District staff in addressing comments and providing a summary of comments and responses. Based upon these responses, the consultant will revise the Draft Plan and prepare a Final Draft Plan report for the District Board’s consideration. Final Plan Following receipt of any changes made by the District Board, the consultant will prepare a Final Plan report for publication.
Task 2 - Water Supply / Water Conservation Management Update Existing Water Supply and Treatment Conditions The consultant will update all existing condition information currently in Section 2 “Existing Water Supply and Treatment Conditions” of the 2009 Plan. The consultant will solicit input from local utilities and Georgia EPD as necessary. Water Demand Forecasts The consultant will prepare county-specific water demand forecasts in 10-year increments. The target year for water demand forecasts will be provided to the consultant. In the development of the water demand forecasts, the consultant will use water withdrawal and production data, customer billing data by category, and forecasting methods consistent with the 2003 and 2009 management plans but refined for current industry practices. Population projection data will be provided to the consultant. The consultant will update and expand the District’s water use profile in the following capacity: Update the District’s water use profile by sector Update the base year per capita use by county Conduct a survey of residential and commercial water demands on a per capita and per account basis across the United States. The consultant will coordinate with District staff on proposed cities/regions prior to finalization. Investigate the end uses of water in the residential sector Investigate the end uses of water in the commercial sector. This will help inform a commercial water efficiency strategy.
6
Metro Water District 2016 Water Resource Plan Update RFP Scope of Work The draft forecasts will be provided to the District Manager and will be reviewed by Georgia EPD. Additional stakeholder review may include utility representatives and other interested parties. The forecasts may, if necessary, be refined, based on this review, prior to publication in the updated 2016 Plan. Water Conservation Analysis and Water Conservation Program Assessment The consultant will coordinate with the District Manager, District staff, and TCC to improve the current water conservation program. The consultant will prioritize conservation strategies that reduce withdrawals and maximize returns to the basin. This will include the following: Assess the conservation program as outlined in the 2009 Plan Update and subsequent amendments to develop strategies and provide recommendations that will move the District forward as a leader in conservation and efficiency. The assessment of the conservation program should be described in detail in the consultant’s proposal. The assessment will also provide a clear path to subsequent recommendations for an effective water conservation strategy through the year 2025. Develop and reorganize action items based on sectors or end-uses (residential, commercial, municipal, etc.). Investigate Action Items that can be tailored to specific river basins. Incorporate technology/market maturity, service area match, customer acceptance/equity into consideration for recommendations. Assess cost, benefits and tradeoffs on a coarse scale for recommended measures – this may include utility benefits and costs, community benefits and costs, water resources benefits, and/or costs for utility and customers when comparing measures. Develop implementation plan that is phased-in, feasible and tailored to the District’s water use profile. Identify and include specific benchmarks of success. Evaluate strategies that reduce consumptive use. Draft recommendations and strategies will be provided to the District staff and TCC prior to finalization in the form of a technical memo. Evaluate Planned and Potential Water Supply Sources and Update Water Resources Issues The consultant, working closely with the District Manager, will evaluate planned and potential water supply sources needed for the target year and update the water resources issues within Sections 6 and 10 respectively of the 2009 plan as needed. Additionally, the consultant will consider the guidance for water supply treatment from the Georgia Indirect Potable Reuse Guidelines (anticipated release in 2015). The study of interbasin transfer of water from outside the District area shall not be included in the proposal or in the updated plan. The plan’s discussion of interbasin transfers within the District area shall be minimized and consistent with guidance from EPD. The consultant will analyze the water supply source options identified in this task to ensure compliance with state requirements and the Governor’s water supply program and related policies. The draft results of these tasks will be provided to the District Manager and will be reviewed by the TCC and District staff prior to refinement, if necessary and publication in the plan.
7
Metro Water District 2016 Water Resource Plan Update RFP Scope of Work Planned Water Supply Sources and Drinking Water Treatment Facilities for the Target Year The consultant will review and refine the summary of the water sources and drinking water facilities identified in Tables 8-1 to 8-4 of the 2009 plan for the target year and intervening years by soliciting input from local utilities. Additionally, the consultant will review and refine the county level summaries of drinking water treatment facility expansions and new facilities in Appendix B. The draft results of this task will be provided to the District and will be reviewed by the TCC and District staff prior to refinement, if necessary and publication in the plan. Additional Water Supply Management Planning Focus The consultant, with input from the TCC, BACs and District staff, will assess implementation items not associated with the Water Conservation Analysis and Water Conservation Program Assessment task. This may include, but is not limited to the following: Comprehensive Asset Management Program that may include the following: Water Loss Control and Leak Detection Program Public Health and Drinking Water Water and Energy Nexus The consultant will provide recommendations and strategies that may be employed by water utilities and local governments to generate consistency in implementation across the District.
Task 3 - Wastewater Management Update Existing Wastewater Management Section The consultant will update all existing condition information currently in Section 2 “Existing Wastewater Management” of the 2009 Plan. The consultant will solicit input from local utilities and Georgia EPD as necessary. Wastewater Forecasts The consultant shall prepare county specific wastewater flow forecasts for the target year and for 10year increments leading up to the target year. In the development of the wastewater flow forecasts, the consultant will use the water demand forecasts prepared as part of the Water Supply and Water Conservation Management Plan update and forecasting methods consistent with the 2003 and 2009 management plans but refined for current industry practices. Update Wastewater Management Issues The consultant shall update the wastewater management issue summary of the 2009 plan. The consultant, under direction from the District Manager and consistent with EPD guidance, will address challenges and opportunities affecting wastewater management, such as wastewater reuse, water return rates, use of septic tanks, water consumption, assimilative capacities, interbasin transfers and water quality standards. The consultant will consider water quality concerns reflected in the current best available Synopsis Report: Current Assimilative Capacity Assessment as provided by Georgia EPD. Additional considerations in updating this summary include, but are not limited to: Nutrient loadings to major reservoirs Anti-degradation requirements Contaminants of emerging concern Georgia EPD Indirect Potable Reuse Guidelines (anticipate in 2015) 8
Metro Water District 2016 Water Resource Plan Update RFP Scope of Work
Recommendations from neighboring Regional Water Councils
Update Wastewater Planning Considerations The consultant will update the Planning Considerations section of the 2009 plan by reviewing current wastewater management practices and assessing future wastewater management needs consistent with EPD guidance. The results of this task will be delivered to the District Manager and then presented to the TCCs and BACs for review and shall be approved by the District Manger before proceeding to the following task. Planned Wastewater Treatment Facilities for the Target Year The consultant will review and refine the summary of planned wastewater treatment facilities identified in Tables 6-1 to 6-2 of the 2009 plan for the target year and intervening years by soliciting input from local utilities. Additionally, the consultant will update the county level summaries of wastewater treatment facility expansions and new facilities in Appendix B. The draft results of this task will be provided to the District and will be reviewed by the TCC and District staff prior to refinement, if necessary and publication in the plan. Wastewater Management Implementation Actions The consultant, with extensive input from local governments, TCCs, BACs and District staff, will review the implementation actions of the 2009 Plan and prepare recommendations for improvements or additions to these actions. Based on input from the BACs and TCC, specific areas of concern which need attention are septic system management including pumped septage disposal management and inclusion of third parties such as the Department of Public Health, and public outreach and education on septic system maintenance and Fats, Oils and Grease (F.O.G) best practices.
Task 4 - Watershed Management Review, Revise, and Develop Watershed and Stormwater Management Strategies The consultant will review the 2009 plan’s watershed and stormwater management policies, practices, requirements and institutional mechanisms, and recommend any changes or additional measures. This will include, but not be limited to, the following potential topics that may require additional research: Model ordinances Stormwater management practices and design criteria Retrofits to existing stormwater detention facilities to address water quality and downstream channel protection Infiltration / preservation of stream baseflow Redevelopment issues Long-Term BMP management strategies Opportunities for better coordination with State or Federal requirements Inter-jurisdictional coordination Land use planning measures Funding Strategies / Stormwater utilities Education and outreach Green Infrastructure The consultant will produce a memo summarizing findings and containing detailed recommendations.
9
Metro Water District 2016 Water Resource Plan Update RFP Scope of Work Refine River Basin Profiles The consultant will, building off of the plan’s river basin profiles, update basin and sub-basin specific watershed/stormwater management needs, and issues in the District. This update will utilize new existing studies (≤ 5 years old) as well as information generated in Task 1 to form the foundation of this update. The issues will be analyzed and in consultation with the District Manager, a few high priority needs and issues for each basin or sub-basin will be identified for inclusion within each river basin profile. The consultant will modify each river basin profile so they may ultimately function as watershed plans for each HUC-8 in the District. These plans will include recommendations for specific actions to address the identified needs and issues. These plans will be crafted based on USEPA’s 9-Elements of Watershed Planning – but will not necessarily need to satisfy all criteria. The plans will include, but not be limited to, the following items: Impaired waters as identified on Georgia’s 2014 305(b) / 303(d) List of Waters, Small water supply watershed protection requirements in the District, Protection of large water supply reservoirs and recreational lakes (Lake Lanier, Allatoona Lake, Lake Jackson, West Point Lake) including the reduction of nutrient loadings to these reservoirs, Endangered and protected species issues, Combined-sewer overflow (CSO) areas, Current and future land-use projections, Recommend BMPs and other policies, strategies or actions to address basin specific issues, with a particular focus on water quality restoration, The draft watershed plans will be provided to the District and will be reviewed by the TCC and District staff prior to refinement if necessary and publication in the plan. Development of Strategy Documents Nonpoint source pollution (NPS) continues to impact the District’s water quality. Many sources and solutions for NPS are beyond the scope of regulations, but are still in need of better management. Therefore this integrated plan update will include the development of the following two strategy documents 1) District-Wide Nonpoint Source Management Strategy Document The consultant will, in coordination with the District Manager and TCC, develop and finalize (likely as an appendix to the integrated plan or for consideration for inclusion in the plan) a District-Wide Nonpoint Source Management (NPS) Strategy Document. This document, which will be developed as an initial step for future update and refinement, will: Use the District-relevant portions of Georgia’s NPS Management Plan as a foundation, Address NPS within the District in more detail than the State Plan, Identify and, where feasible, quantify NPS sources, Provide recommended strategies, management practices, goals and metrics, including utilizing the District-Wide Green Infrastructure Strategy Document described below, as well as other innovative approaches such as pollutant credit trading and impervious surface targets, Identify a list of financial resources available to address NPS.
10
Metro Water District 2016 Water Resource Plan Update RFP Scope of Work This document, while not required for implementation, will be used as a tool by the District and local governments to implement NPS projects in a rational, strategic manner, when appropriate. 2) District-Wide Green Infrastructure Strategy Document The consultant will, in coordination with the District Manager and TCC, develop and finalize (likely as an appendix to the integrated plan or for consideration for inclusion in the plan) a Green Infrastructure (GI) Strategy Document. This document, which will be developed as an initial step for future update and refinement, will: Identify barriers and opportunities for implementing GI at both local (i.e. neighborhoods) and regional scales (i.e. parks, corridors, etc.) Include a coarse scale discussion of cost and benefit tradeoffs when implementing GI Include a discussion of benefits beyond stormwater management such as flood and drought protection, water quality improvements, Make recommendations for overcoming barriers to GI implementation. This document, while not required for implementation, will be used as a tool by the District and local governments to implement GI projects in a rational, strategic manner, when appropriate.
Task 5 – Public Education and Outreach Update The public education and outreach discussion and requirements for all tasks and plan elements will be overhauled as part of the plan update. It is critical that the updated education and outreach requirements do not reflect a one size fits all approach. As part of the update, the consultant will, in coordination with the District Manager: Research and compile a summary document of innovative and successful education and outreach best management practices that are currently implemented in metro areas of comparable size to the Metro Water District. The summary document will include a discussion of each example’s measurable outcomes and metrics used to evaluate the project and costs associated with the project. Update the “Education Focus for Target Audience” tables from the 2009 plan and expand them based on emerging issues of concern. Develop a minimum of three alternative ways to present and categorize new and existing education and outreach requirements to ensure the appropriate approach(es) are taken for municipalities of varying population and geographic areas. Generate a list of education and outreach practices that the District can use as examples and suggest to local governments to implement in order to fulfill the plan’s education and outreach requirements based on the summary document discussed above. This list will expand on the example education and outreach activities and public participation and involvement activities listed in the 2009 plan.
11
Metropolitan North Georgia Water Planning District 2016 Water Resource Management Plan Update
(Exhibit B) Format for Consultant Cost Proposal Prime Consultant 1.
Direct Labor
Estimated Hours
Rate/Hour
Total Estimated Cost
(List by billing category.)
(List for each)
(List for each)
(List for each)
TOTAL DIRECT LABOR: $ 2.
Overhead Cost (overhead percentage rate) x (total direct labor) TOTAL OVERHEAD: $
3.
Other Direct Costs (List other items (Printing, etc.) and cost for each) TOTAL OTHER DIRECT COSTS: $
4.
Travel A. Travel by common carrier from/to the District offices. (List number of trips and economy class airfare, plus taxi and limousine fares, etc.) B. Travel by private automobile within District area. (List number of days x rate) TOTAL TRAVEL: $
5.
Profit (percentage rate) x (total contract price excluding profit) TOTAL PROFIT: $
Metropolitan North Georgia Water Planning District 2016 Water Resource Management Plan Update Sub-Consultant (s) 1.
Direct Labor
Estimated Hours
Rate/Hour
Total Estimated Cost
(List by billing category.)
(List for each)
(List for each)
(List for each)
TOTAL DIRECT LABOR: $ 2.
Overhead Cost (overhead percentage rate) x (total direct labor) TOTAL OVERHEAD: $
3.
Other Direct Costs (List other items (Printing, etc.) and cost for each) TOTAL OTHER DIRECT COSTS: $
4.
Travel A. Travel by common carrier from/to the District offices. (List number of trips and economy class airfare, plus taxi and limousine fares, etc.) B. Travel by private automobile within District area. (List number of days x rate) TOTAL TRAVEL: $
5.
Profit (percentage rate) x (total contract price excluding profit) TOTAL PROFIT: $ TOTAL COST AND PROFIT: $
Metropolitan North Georgia Water Planning District 2016 Water Resource Management Plan Update
EXHIBIT B-1 BUDGET BY TASK
Cost for each task should be a lump-sum for that task. Task 1 Task Task Task Task Task Task
2 3 4 5 6 7
Task Task Task Task
8 9 10 11
Task 12 Task 13 Task 14
Task Task Task Task Task
15 16 17 18 19
2009 Plan and Policy Review Future Plan Evaluation Integrated Modeling Revise Action Items Cost and Implementation Funding Strategies Coordination with other Regional Commission Initiatives Meetings and Stakeholder and Public Involvement Distribution of Material Preparation of an Integrated District Plan Update Existing Water Supply and Treatment Conditions Water Demand Forecasts Water Conservation Analysis and Program Assessment Evaluate Planned and Potential Water Supply Sources and Issues Planned Water Supply Sources and Tmt. Facilities for the Planning Year Additional Water Supply Management Planning Focus Update Existing Wastewater Management Section Wastewater Forecasts Update Wastewater Management Issues Update Wastewater Planning Considerations Planned Wastewater Treatment Facilities for the Planning Year Wastewater Management Implementation Actions Review, Revise, and Develop Watershed and Stormwater Mgmt. Strategies Refine River Basin Profiles District-Wide Nonpoint Source Management Strategy Document District-Wide Green Infrastructure Strategy Document Public Education and Outreach Update TOTAL
$ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $
$ $ $
$ $ $ $ $ $
Appendix A
MEMORANDUM TO:
Technical Coordinating Committee
FROM:
District Staff
DATE:
May 14, 2014
SUBJECT:
2016 Plan Update Goals and Objectives Exercise
Between March 26, 2014 and April 24, 2014, Metro Water District staff facilitated three Basin Advisory Council (BAC) meetings and two Technical Coordinating Committee (TCC) meetings to solicit input from stakeholders regarding their goals and objectives for the 2016 Management Plan Update. The exercise started with formation of five small groups composed of approximately eight committee members each in addition to a District staff member serving as facilitator. The purpose of the small group format was to ensure comments were received from all participants in lieu of an open discussion forum. The five small groups focused on separate topics: Water Supply and Water Conservation, Wastewater, Watershed, Planning and Policy and Public Education. Participants were asked to write down as many goals and objectives as they could for approximately five minutes. Each member’s individual comments were captured on Post-It notes and placed on a white board placed at the front of the group. Then the facilitator asked the group to categorize their comments and elaborate on or discuss items posted on the board. This portion of the exercise took about 10 additional minutes. At the end of the session, facilitators rotated to the next group allowing each group to focus on and comment on each of the five categories. After the meetings, District staff generated the attached file containing all comments received. Comments from all three BAC meetings were combined into their own categorical summaries and further broken down into sub-topics, as were comments from the two TCC meetings. The cover page for each category provides a pie-chart depicting the number of comments received on a sub-topic basis. Comments received will be discussed by the TCC on May 21, 2014 and will then be provided to the Governing Board and BACs. Additionally, all comments will be provided to the planning consultant for the 2016 Update.
[This page intentionally left blank]
Planning and Policy Goals and Objectives for 2016 District Plan Update Basin Advisory Council Summary of Comments Received Policy Goals and Objectives
2016 Plan Update Goals and Objectives
Planning Goals and Objectives
Planning and Policy Basin Advisory Council Comments (Total Comments – 162) Policy Comments Budgets and Funding o o o o o
Budgeting for more - future hydraulic planning studies for Basin Evaluate options of raising funds for infrastructure upgrade/replacement of utility and for funding District operations Engage cities and counties uniformly in their budgets to work water plans Research cost per person for proper funding Budgeting for more funds for education of county commissioners in development and water planning issues
Consideration of Funding for Implementation o o o
Funding of each effort Budgeting for the implementation and enforcement of current laws on the books Require funding for water resources/stormwater
Consolidation o o
o o o o
Consolidation of systems No economies of scale and too many councils and agencies. Need to streamline in order to get water goals accomplished in a timely and efficient manner. Everyone protects their self-interest instead of the common good. Too many jurisdictions Consolidate counties and cities into authorities Streamline the bureaucracy in all areas of planning Implement water utilities to better share costs among users/sources
Enforcement of Plan Measures o o o o o o
Enforcement Enforce rules for local jurisdictions Make water the driving force behind future community growth (future availability drives growth) Better incentives for municipalities/systems to implement all plan requirements Create growth plans and stick to them (municipal level) Have a plan but make sure we work the plan and implement steps to ensure it happens
Integrated Planning o
Integrated water management - should we consider one plan instead of 3?
SMART Goals o o o o o
Board priority list for different goals Define "SMART"/key objectives (specific, measureable, achievable, time delineated) Prepare realistic and attainable requirements based on resources available (is. smaller municipalities) Keep it simple and relevant to key objectives (keep focused on the issue) Make sure policies are viable, workable, affordable and effective
Miscellaneous o o o
Declaration of upper ACF and/or Chattahoochee Basin as a 'regionally important resource' "Shall" vs "Should" (be cognizant of language) Awards for systems doing great jobs (based on size and resources)
2016 Plan Update Comments Climate Change/Drought Impacts o o
Begin to consider climate change impacts Utilize climatological forecasting in drought management policy and planning
Cost /Benefits Analysis o o o o o
Streamlined, uniform cost/benefit analysis Consideration of cost/benefit of plan implementation Cost/benefit analysis of plan implementation and components Consider cost vs benefit of plan implementation Assess cost/benefit. Who benefits? How to include ecology?
Stakeholder Input o o o o o o o o o
The numbers of groups input to planning and policy is too many - a large group has problems agreeing Identify consensus points between contending claims on water Make sure all stakeholders are invited to the table Definitive actions from coordinating groups Implement rotating facilitators to planning processes Are planning and zoning officials part of the stakeholders? Improve planning process for jurisdictional input Refine the process where plan modifications are vetted through the BAC, TCC and Governing Board Take comments from the public before implementing any policy and listen to the comments
Miscellaneous o
2 more years to final plan (seems like a long time)
General Planning Comments Education and Outreach/Information Sharing o o o o o o
Develop better ways to encourage "green planning" Better policy education (communication - balancing interpretations) Public info - establish criteria that can be measured (hits on a web page, press release / outreach) Maximize public information quarterly - regarding water supply and conservation Dissemination of public information is NUMBER 1 Do a better job of telling the District story - how much is conserved?
IBTs o o o o o o
Need very strict rules about when an IBT is warranted - reasons/needs and consequences must be very clear when applying for it Return of water to Basins from which water is taken (Does not need to be water from the same system) Interbasin transfers - take the politics out of it Don't rule out importing water from Tennessee River. Use and discharge for high quality effluent in Metro area would increase reliability of Chattahoochee into Apalachicola Bay IBT should be tailored county by county not statewide (source and usage) IBTs should never be "off the table"
Improved Data and Transparency o o o o o o o o o o o o o o
Develop more metrics 50 years of metrics planning and capacity Before goals are made - results from last goals must be assessed Develop more metrics for measuring success Consistency in how and what is reported Policy to mandate the submittal of metrics Improve information sharing between all basins Have reporting available on the web Continued improvement of data collection where possible Provide updates on pending policy and legislation Use data to predict and inform More visual tools Ensure policies and plans are supported by timely accurate data collected in real-time Development of metrics to measure if planning goals are met
o o o o o o
Use population projections consistent with OPTS Develop metrics/benchmarks to measure progress/implementation More collection data Review of what is working and what is not working Provide score cards for 2009-2015 plan as an annex to updated plan or a separate report Better long-range policy implementation issues identification
Integrated Planning o o o o o o o o o o
Integrated approach to planning between wastewater, water and water resources/stormwater incorporate water, wastewater and stormwater in overall process Promote integrated water resource planning Tie water plans to land use plans and transportation plans - true comprehensive plans Better linkage with comprehensive plans Coordination of water supply, stormwater, wastewater systems across jurisdictions Master planning for multi-jurisdiction water/wastewater/stormwater infrastructure Integrated water resources planning Integrate planning for drinking water, wastewater and stormwater - Integrated water management Make better use of master plan
Interjurisdictional Coordination o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o
Facilitate coordination and cooperation among suppliers Incorporate water and wastewater issues into their business permit Consider what works in other jurisdictions EPD and ARC facilitated meetings between adjacent councils (2x a year per council) Improve county collaboration on water sources protection Consistency across region - how to get some of the Metro Water District methods and requirements into other region's plans Coordinate local planning efforts Better coordination within District and outside - other regional plans Sharing results across the state Organize a regional water council advisory committee like the BAC (other councils whose boundaries touch the District) Better interjurisdictional water supply coordination Better interjurisdictional coordination of wastewater collection treatment Encourage joint planning for non-point source pollution for municipalities Develop infrastructure for movement of water during periods of drought Provide for networks of sub-basin activity under BAC umbrella (sub-basin activity awareness) Better coordination with regional groups - i.e. regional group goals; contests with other groups; more reporting of group progress
o o o o o o o o o o
o o o o o o o o o
Coordination and cooperation - public with professional organizations regarding land use development Public/private partnerships and joint ventures to achieve goals Expand liaison with groups outside of the Metro Water District Better interagency coordination Coordination of state policies Modify state law to be more in line with current issues In-service/sharing best practices Could "District" staff assist in doing "audits"? Integrated water resource planning (statewide) Similar to how the Bluebook was used to standardize stormwater design (somewhat) across the District, create another manual that has the goal of standardizing permitting processes Districtwide More regional sharing of policy and plans (including all agencies) EPD coordinate statewide coordination with regional water planning councils Joint meeting at least once per year with other regional water planning councils Better coordination between jurisdictions to meet long-term goals Develop sub regional plans where municipalities can share resources and benefits Communication between municipal departments Communication through entire river watershed or utilities Coordination and communication with public policy people who can influence legislation (such as Russ Pennington) Better coordination between plans and responsible parties
Wastewater Planning o o o o o o o o o o o o
Program to identify failing septic systems Septic system inspection on some regular interval Are there circumstances when septic systems are appropriate Board statement regarding District reuse (positive or negative) Septic system phase-out master plan for each community septic tank waste disposal policy for each community More state of GA EPD policies on septic haulers and septic waste disposal "Septic" is NOT the demon it's being made… see "base flow returns" data, etc… Septic use/consumptive use Identify existing onsite septic system locations and make long-range plans to convert based on analysis of actual damages to the environment to prioritize replacement order Low pressure grinder system installation policy = % per year Encourage policy to maximize returns
Water Conservation o
Energy savings tied to conservation
o
Help introduce new water conservation technology
Water Supply Planning o o o o o o o o o o
New reservoir - Evaluation of total water loss from evaporation in the planning of water supply reservoirs Regional water supply planning Decrease time it takes to permit a reservoir Encourage via policy, water conservation in industrial and commercial customer base Need reservoirs Do not ignore the obvious - population growth and increased storage Focus on smaller reservoir development Need a flow policy in the state - but perhaps pilot in targeted basin that is experiencing low flows (Flint) Plan for water use to go down - Population can increase and water use overall can go down, let's plan for that Water supply: Incorporate meaningful demand management (with quantified benchmarks) into future water demand projections
Watershed Planning o o o o o o o o o o o o
Stream corridor and lake shore restoration Promote green infrastructure and green space to developers Comprehensive watershed evaluations of the 5th or 6th hydrologic unit code (scale) Planning from a landscape view, the value of green space, both public and private land on water quality to county or city zoning committee Focus on non-point source pollution and possible management solutions and enforcement options Watershed based approach regardless of county lines Develop mediation mechanisms for non-point source pollution of public and private resources Review policy on stream bank restoration to fast track self-mitigating plans Implement more wetland use and creation Local watershed protection plans Green space encouragement Plan on watershed/basin basis (source to mouth)
Miscellaneous o o o
Reduce length of study review times Post-it notes with better glue Identify existing resources which may be utilized where missing - i.e., rent/contract/outsource services to meet needs and not duplicate efforts
Planning and Policy Goals and Objectives for 2016 District Plan Update Technical Coordinating Committee Summary of Comments Received Policy Goals and Objectives
2016 Plan Update Goals and Objectives
Planning Goals and Objectives
Planning and Policy Technical Coordinating Committee Comments (Total Comments – 111) Policy Comments Budgets and Funding o
Re-evaluate amount of dues owed by counties to District
Integrated Planning o o o o o o
Integrate all 3 plans - highlight impact of one plan on the other plans where they are pushing against each other Encourage coordination and integration of 3 plans (e.g. cost/benefits, reuse and water supply) Proactive future planning (rather than reactive) Integrate three Plans into one to remove the redundancies Integrate Metro Water District audits with MS4 and WPP reporting Focus on integrated water resources management
Interjurisdiction Coordination o o o o o
Determine means and methods to establish common goals with other regional councils How to better manage policies that may cross county and jurisdictional boundaries. (e.g. using watersheds as boundaries instead of county boundaries) common approach for prioritization and implementation of capital improvements Align planning and coordinate horizons for municipal plans Consistent policies across jurisdictions
State Level Planning o o o o
o o o o
Define common goals among regional water councils Coordination and input with other regional plans Define and solve "state" regulatory obstacles and needs Integrate the plans into the ACF basin (put into the context of the basin, level of detail for District, Regions and states would be different but tells our good story and promotes others to catching up Identify EPA/EPD New Directions Better coordination with other regional water councils and other agencies of interest Better coordination with EPA and EPD, so the city/county doesn't get caught in the middle Need fresh look at the purpose, need and approach of conducting water audits
Water Supply Planning o o
Streamline the building of reservoirs - what can utilities really do about it? Future water sources - think about drawing from Tennessee River
o o o o o
Federal and state regulatory agencies must revise local jurisdictions criteria for developing permit-able regional water supply reservoirs Develop policy to allow relaxed requirements if summer/winter water use is near equal Implement new water supply in strategic locations Formalize process of reservoir planning and permitting consistent with EPD and usage rates How to streamline bureaucracy of reservoir building? All Federal and State permitting
Watershed Planning o
Can offsite development credits be used to promote watershed stewardship, green space acquisition?
Miscellaneous o o o
No ego Cultivate legislative champions on water policy issues Encouraging green building policies (LID/LEED/WaterSense)
2016 Plan Update Comments Clarity of Information/Balancing Interpretations o o o o o o o
More clarity in direction of what actions meet minimum requirements Define NPDES permitting process to facilitate use of non-point source trading to meet water quality goals Use the same base data for all municipalities because there are different planning horizons for each local government Simplify language in Plans Consistent guidance and requirements for NWR/leakage rates, etc. So, the District is consistent in reporting Alignment with common core standards Definitive measures for action items (how to document and ensure compliance)
Climate Change/Drought Impacts o o
Plan for climate change Examine planning robustness with regards to future climate (projections) or past climate (paleoclimate)
Cost /Benefits of Plan Implementation o o o
Understand that each jurisdiction has its own special needs and concerns Cost vs. benefit payback (how long will it take to see returns on investment) Cost vs. benefit of plan implementation
o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o
Cost vs benefit of all three plans Prior to a new plan, the costs vs benefits of the old plan must be clearly enumerated Focus on lifecycle costs, future costs and unintended consequences Treat water resources management like a business - develop a business plan and sustainable cost effective growth Consider the smaller amount of staff when considering new requirements, as well as funding Cost vs. benefit of any new measures Realistic and cost effective strategies Understand that new cities may not always share the costs of local planning Cost vs. benefit analysis of Plan components is absolutely critical Specific cost vs. benefit analysis of policy implementation as it pertains to overall goals Cost vs. benefit of Plan implementation Include cost vs. benefit analysis in process. Is an activity really worth the effort? It is important to weigh the plan cost vs benefits, especially in smaller systems with little ability to find funding sources Tell the full story of cost vs benefits No more rebates or free giveaways (it’s a burden to utilities in cost, time and personnel)
The Current Plan is Good o o
Improve effectiveness of existing plans rather than developing a lot of new measures Plan is good as is; don't make too many changes
Flexibility o o o o
Continue to allow flexibility regarding infrastructure requirements (e.g. expansion of water and wastewater plants) Understand decision and the time to implement if construction is required Simplify requirements Tell the story of how long things take
Integrated Planning o
Consider providing menu of action items for plan goals
SMART Goals o o
Prepare/develop guidance documents for new policies or plans Goals realistic and obtainable
Stakeholder Input o o o
District should hold some public hearings in local communities More reliance on local government/utility input vs. consultants Better education of the specific issues and suggestions from members
Miscellaneous o
Put planning effort into areas that need work, rather than rehash where we're doing well
General Planning Comments Education and Outreach o o
Improve education efforts for elected officials Incorporate into the school curriculum at the State level watershed management education
IBTs o o o
Work with state to implement interbasin transfer rule Reduce stigma on inner basin transfers Acknowledge inner basin transfers is an important or viable tool for the District and Region
Improved Data and Transparency o o o o o o o
Coordinate local growth and usage projections into district projections Increase GI/LID studies, data, case studies and incentives (more data for better decision making) Sharing of information by agencies - successful programs vs. failed programs Incorporate uncertainty or multiple growth scenarios in planning Tracking sharing data for Plan compliance web-based Improve upon negative trends or look to see if these requirements are really necessary Planning and policy initiatives based on sound science; e.g. Resource assessments done for State water plan (ground water, surface water, water quality)
Interjurisdictional Coordination o o o o
Health Department should be involved in the process for septic systems Task the appropriate agency with the right task; i.e. does the agency have the authority to perform the task? More communication between Counties who share watersheds Communication: share what is working and what is not
Local Level Planning o o o
Coordination with all local jurisdictions, example cities within County with shared resources Better coordination amongst local planning efforts (maximize efforts) Simplify goals and objectives at the local jurisdiction level
Wastewater Planning o
Focus on return flow credits in withdrawal calculations
Water Supply Planning o o o o
How will local jurisdictions play a role in planning water supply reservoirs for a region Identify non-regulated activities that impact water supply Plans for maintaining current reservoir storage volumes (dredging, raising dams, etc.) Promote regional reservoirs (source water) and regional stormwater management controls
Watershed Planning o o
Short and long term sustainability and water quality, both local and regional Impaired stream process review improvements
Miscellaneous o o o
Technology improvements What makes MNGWPD the BEST Keeping all options and tools open for water policy and planning
[This page intentionally left blank]
Education and Outreach Goals and Objectives for 2016 District Plan Update Basin Advisory Council Summary of Comments Received
[This page intentionally left blank]
Education and Outreach Basin Advisory Council Comments (Total Comments – 163) Messaging o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o
Ensure education programs & resources are relevant to target group Encourage message water is a resource Focus on practical water saving techniques for families Create a culture of water stewardship Direct and indirect potable reuse Programs to encourage drinking water not bottled water More targeted education on sustainable landscaping More education in schools on “green” water usage Education on green infrastructure and using grey water on site Acronym such as “FOG” but make it related to watershed protection Select a targeted phrase to educate public – that will change behaviors (ex. FOG) Stress water conservation, water quality and system maintenance More focus on overall watershed impacts Water supply and demand Septic maintenance More web stories (success stories) More success stories on small scale Public education on value of water-not just during drought Educate public about F.O.G. and what to do with it Promote the value of water Promote the “you are the solution” somehow Education Regarding: pet waste, fertilizer use, early warnings of approaching drought, promote “WET” program Educate general population of cost of fees Make more transparent where water fees: wastewater fees & stormwater fee are being applied Have an education campaign that conveys the cost of infrastructure to the average citizen Educate through cost-always works Target outdoor water for education, right plant/right place, non-potable, rainwater harvesting Educate septic owners about maintenance & operation of their system; target high septic areas Educate public about water conservation/improve public in developing simple, common sense measures Raise public awareness of water issues and limitations of water availability Promote knowledge transfer towards the stakeholders. Too often they comment later in the process than desired. Education focused 1:1 with landowners Bring back the Indian (effective messaging)
o o o o o o o o
Outreach toxic chemical disposal, HHW, pharm Relate plans to critical periods: drought My drop counts is a good program Septic maintenance Outreach re landscapes & erosion Promote future demand needs compared to our current capacity Providing the public with an understanding of their impact on the water resources Outdoor water use/ versus water needs
Audiences o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o
Targeted education for engineers on best practices for WQ treatment Develop/target key businesses and industries (ex. construction companies, lawn services and trucking – gravel, dirt) How do we educate transient population? Visitors? Construction companies. Encourage schools to discuss water treatment process, including how to protect the treatment. Education to policy makers at state and local levels Broader focus to include adults and business (focus is now on children) Focus on getting them young Education industries (high gain), especially regarding specific technology options Need program to target renters & transient residents Educate political leaders Target college/university students Educate contractors, local zoning, and planning on interaction Educate zoning board members on how they can help with zoning requirements Boy Scout & Girl Scout involvement for merit badge Local High School Church clean-up & education Elected officials: House, Senate, County Commission, etc. Are they informed? Continuing education for county/city staffs not just utility staff Educating politicians in water management issues Outreach to young students in public schools Outreach into schools works well-children get parents interested awareness Present to Scout groups Present to church groups Continue focus with schools and kids!
Tools o o o o
Write editors to public newspapers to stir public comment. Map issues to build personal ownership to solutions Implementation of “citizens participating in scientific research Live data mapping for District using smart phone apps
o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o
o o o o
Embed District messaging in school curriculum Embed District messaging in school curriculum Collaborate with SCAD on aesthetics, Architecture, reuse, SCAD pads Improve public private joint efforts/grants to improve watersheds Support water innovations on our returns and streams Promote required environmental/sustainability coursework in public grade schools Create education topic of “air, water, and soil’ in the schools system and test questions for each grade. Radio spots like Clean Air Campaign Tax credit for action items (e.g. septic pump outs) Incentive based contest for learning Conservation and awareness incentives (promote @ school and community) Social media outreach Targeting conservation via information in the actual bull, not an insert which would be thrown away. Show how much the maintenance of FOG is costing Create way to measure how well people read newsletters in the water bill Regional environmental center with a focus on water Adult types of education Work directly with schools and civic group – speakers bureau Better info about wastewater return (impact downstream) Direct & bring attention to websites through electronic signatures Create & use district Twitter account Utilize social media AT&T U verse access for PSA’s Newsletter Utilities/local government/water representatives presence at public events & fundraisers Facilitate/equip local governments for education outreach task Increase collaboration between utilities and government within a utility Concise PSA’s on all available media Find effective ways to get the public to web for information Increase funding to increase public awareness Agreement on government standard interpretation of laws and goals then transferred through education programs to politician then to their department heads & professional engineers from their national associations Policy education at local level-help educate other players (e.g. municipal staff in other departments) on water issues and their role in addressing (not just education of the public) Local government, more public involvement events (ex. Drinking Water Week, Great American Cleanup etc.) Involvement with teachers planning calendars (July) Create continuing education credit program for various professions-i.e. contractors, realtor, misc. license holders.
o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o
Local government/city/counties to combine efforts/funding with water, sewer, stormwater on local & regional watershed Elected official orientation –water messaging. ACCG training for new elected officials Require more community involvement through possible water & conservation fairs-make it fun Hold more incentive programs for public awareness & compliance & to get innovative input from public (citizens) Can education be continually brought to the front of the public’s mind? For example, can “my drop counts” send a monthly update to my inbox? District as well as local government need a metric to measure any progress in this area Introduce education requirements in local high school regarding usage, conservation, site visits Solicit soil and water conservation members to help Educate through school systems and internet Utilize billboards for education Increase public/private partnerships & sponsorship of education initiatives Develop funding/financing mechanisms for public education- corporate sponsorship, state funding Provide data to customers on their water use in real time AMI Target high water users and work with them to reduce their water use Provide data to customers on their water use as compared to neighbors, average use, etc. Have governments work with agricultural interests to decrease water use & reduce nutrient loads from waste/stormwater Utilize K-12 in educating the “older” public Work with schools to teach about water/efficiency/watershed. Support & retrofit of schools to be efficient Develop educational materials targeting elected officials Educate public officials on “water 101” Local government staff: planners, engineers, building/development inspectors need more specific education as to how water is affected by what they do Counties’ accomplishment reports Create branded message for use across metro Basins for water/wastewater/SW issues Material enclosed in the bills Social media to reach younger generations Town meetings Use regional data to make education programs more specific (local relevance) Develop materials to better educate homeowners for use by waste removal COS. & neighborhood association Create blocking instruction for public schools to incorporate in curriculum-especially STEMprovide associate instructors* Speaking circuit: educate each subdivision HOA’s. Create a requirement that cities/counties should meet with HOAs to educate the public on conservation, septic tank maintenance, detention ponds etc.
o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o
Prepare an “elevator speech” (short) we want public to know-simple conservation actions a person can do Greater use of web: social media More public outreach events: ex. River cleaning, ex. Recycling events with emphasis on water quality Public-TV, newspaper: informed? Water use vs. return Include water cleanups with drug take back days/ combine with Keep __ County Beautiful & clean water weeks- may & October Include Education in school system Share #’s on each issues Share steps with cities & counties at board meetings as we progress Promotion at events such as: professional sports events, high school games, college games, little league sports Public awareness announcements TV & radio Education points specifically & priority & mediums (clear priorities of audiences & messaging) Better use of social media Define maximizing public info Contests in area schools regarding water health and conservation like ally tuna comic book/coloring book in Cobb. County More incentives or requirements for communities to do public education that is effective. Have more specific guidance. Road signs to identify large rivers Basins Increase use of social media –targeted outreach Motivation for people to make changes-like low flow toilet rebates – is there funding at any level to help less affluent systems to offer this?
Miscellaneous o o o o o o o
Reestablish P2AD Practice what you desire others to do. Communicate details of programs and options End user enrollment and priority Greater overall education (is it getting better) Improve customer service from water providers across the District e.g. competition among providers Add drug take back to household hazardous materials
[This page intentionally left blank]
Education and Outreach Goals and Objectives for 2016 District Plan Update Technical Coordinating Committee Summary of Comments Received
[This page intentionally left blank]
Education and Outreach Technical Coordinating Committee Comments (Total Comments – 92) Messaging o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o
Educate at elementary school level Educate at a young age More celebrating success of District achievements Increase regional messaging (one message/one voice) Try to inform public as to specific cost of implementation and estimated costs of environmental impacts Discuss drought policies and impacts (what are we doing to be good stewards and the costs Education of cost vs. benefit of integrated programs (more internal education than to public) Increase frequency of media message and outreach Expand the realm of messages Promote consistent message across regional councils and encourage collaboration Metro story in the context of ACF basin Educate public on all three plans Educate public on how water impacts everyone Emphasize personal responsibility Develop more message templates Prepare ratepayers for the cost of conservation Add focus of the value of water to public education program Public awareness outreach - specific impacts like storm drains to creeks Educate on emerging contaminates of concern - drugs other Document to general public conservation efforts and effects Share successes, analysis and results of efforts Broaden the education from water conservation to water quality - land use, development storm water runoff, etc... Educate on non-regulated activities that might impact water supply and quality Promote “zero-scaping” –native, drought tolerant plants, -minimize lawns How about an educational water park in which all attractions use only captured stormwater and or reuse water? Biggest hurdle to reuse is perception, not technical. Need education to address this. Customers have correlated conservation with rising rates. Work to explain the deferred-cost benefits of conservation & efficiency if these benefits trickle down. Need more P.I. on water quality & funding issues Value of water related to public health as well as consumer convenience Safety of reuse concept that all water is recycled Get out more information on septic system maintenance activities for home owners. (Cost to maintain)
o o o o o o
Enormity of buried infrastructure and need to maintain Message that stormwater does not go to wastewater treatment plant Importance of pond maintenance even without maintenance agreement Convey ownership of watershed Messaging on value vs. cost of water Highlight examples of success in other local/regional/national pub. ed. Initiatives
Audiences o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o
Educate at elementary school level Educate at a young age Educate/continue to educate politicians in District on water needs, goals and plan requirements Focus outreach across demographics Promote public education toward younger age groups (elementary schools and scout programs) Targeted education to legislature and local officials Greater emphasis on education in school systems Target adult groups and/or organizations Educating local politicians Target adult groups and/or organizations Target appropriate audiences - decision makers, industry leaders, not JUST KIDS! Targeted small business education program City-life formation is becoming more common. Provide guidance in understanding the W/WW/SW ramifications. Target political leaders Educate state legislatures Educate elected officials about water issues in GA Educate builders & developers on regulations & permitting
Tools o o o o o o o o o o o
Programs that involve PTA/extracurricular activities instead of classroom teachers Teacher education programs Partnerships between neighboring jurisdictions - present a unified front with education topics CEU's for District education efforts - TCC meetings Provision by the District to the counties and cities of good educational material (DVDS, brochures, etc.) Focus on education through new social media (twitter, Facebook) Guidance on not to best measure the effectiveness of education program Surveys More clarity/detail for education plan requirements (more examples and definitions) Partner strategies with other outreach groups within District Better public outreach materials in both English and Spanish
o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o
Public outreach TV Increase interaction of certification programs, trade associations, etc... Educate states external to Georgia on the Conservation strides the state has made - use actual numbers Use social media or technology that reaches more people Increase surveys to analyze and better gauge public understanding of messages, barriers to change and attractive incentives Follow up with surveys to track effectiveness of message - Did message change attitude, knowledge or behavior? Create incentives for public to participate Provide resources, share resources (toolbox). Consistent messaging-reach down to local levels not just “Atlanta” Social Media Educational videos (short) and PowerPoints aimed at education local government staff and elected officials Coordination with school system Provide more information on WQ BMP’s that individual home owners can use Develop packages for local governments to use to implement action items. This will allow them to just edit an implementation plan, rather than build one Social media, friend or foe Assessment of what outreach has been effective. Effectiveness of various outreach programs. Develop guidance for assessment & evaluation More residential FOG info pamphlets-pamphlets/videos Training/certification targeted at field personnel (inspectors) Educate local officials (Board of Commissioners) on regional needs & funding Target littering/partner with KGB Partnership with other environmental/water related public outreach efforts Partner with BOEs for education of youth Public announcement, TV commercial, radio Infographic that explains surface water challenges Share “lessons learned” among local governments Educational flyers
Miscellaneous o o
Increasing public involvement Solicit a dialog (public feedback- what are the public's priorities/perceptions)
[This page intentionally left blank]
Watershed Goals and Objectives for 2016 District Plan Update Basin Advisory Council Summary of Comments Received
[This page intentionally left blank]
Watershed Basin Advisory Council Comments (Total Comments – 165) General Stormwater Management o o o o o o o o o o o o o
New subdivisions and impervious surfaces Stormwater retention ponds not adequate New technologies for stormwater treatment should be encouraged and allowed to be tried without penalty Improve watershed protection via better management practices. Many were developed in the 1970's and 1980's. What new can we do? Standardize stormwater management BMPs throughout ARC sphere of influence Stormwater BMP's coastal vs. piedmont areas Regional stormwater detention infrastructure Enhance capture and treatment of storm flows in existing floodplains Local government levels of service, public v private Property rights v. stream rehab (What impact property rights (access, liability, etc.) would have on stream rehab efforts) Effective erosion control methods that make sense during development Establish water drainage requirements for any new or improved construction Implementation of BMPs at parcel (new construction and retro-fit)
Watershed Improvements o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o
What to do about streams that don’t meet bacteria standards Focus on reducing the number of impacted streams Pollutant source control BMPs for lake shoreline management & restoration Aggressive stream rehab Manage nonpoint source pollution Stream rehab, clean-up impacted streams Develop standards dumpsters, dumpster drains, and dumpster covers Undertake stream restoration only when supported by green infrastructure to manage stormwater watershed-wise Plan better for sediment removal from water source Create more wetlands Treating large volumes of urban runoff Improves buffers around streams Restore impaired waters / rivers / creeks Establish stream clean up goals Nonpoint source controls Watershed protection pilot programs
o o o
Facilitate agricultural BMPs Develop program for identifying impacted streams Programs to specifically target TMDL / listed streams with local citizen involvement in cleanup (public / private partnerships)
Education and Outreach o o o o
o o o o o o o o o
Education of local officials in charge of zoning decisions and ordinances on what constitutes a healthy stream bank and the space around it required for that health Improve stormwater runoff education / outreach programs; ex. Green infrastructure Focus on education to inform population on stormwater measures to improve W.Q. Use of organization workshops to communicate information re watershed management & small lake management; e.g. Georgia Lake Society's Lake University workshops or SE NALMs or other professional groups) Education on stormwater to general public - part of the problem / need to be part of the solution, new products & technology Educate public in smaller communities on watershed management (focus on high schools) Encourage Georgia DOT to do a better job of stormwater management in road design Educate local zoning board members of impacts during training of developments have on local watersheds Educate construction providers in development process Public education of residential fertilizer use Education for engineers on better GI design Educate consumers via their actual bill Public education about impact of polluting water courses
Data/Monitoring o o o o o o o o o o o o o
Nonpoint water quality results Public sharing of water quality data Monitor stream quality at county boundaries Collect more data Study water quality measures implemented 10+ years ago to evaluate performance and revise standards to focus on what works best Greater data access (online) Better analysis of future requirements Perform groundwater sampling when necessary to insure water quality Monitor surface run-off based on percentage of rain Individual collection of stormwater management methods public information Metrics effectiveness of stormwater programs Encourage formation / participation in Adopt-A-Stream programs Consistent water quality testing - during all types of weather
o o o o o o o o o o o
Measurement - develop meaningful metrics Mapping of critical / threatened areas Programs - detail what works Increase stream water quality monitoring Focus on reducing the number of impacted streams; 1) better sampling and analysis, 2) Update EPD review / listing process, 3) Study actual causes of listing Include downstream impacts outside of metro boundaries Incorporate real time assessment into management of watersheds Provide emphasis and visibility to sub-basin watersheds health and impacts Evaluate watersheds as they encompass stormwater and other pollutant sources Note communities the quality of their stormwater In Cobb County we have a lot of runoff problems created by new neighborhoods built further back on the streams than older neighborhoods. Quantifying what works best to prevent this would be a help.
Integrated Planning o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o
Watershed leads to water supply availability. The understanding and management of watersheds lead to understanding of quantity and quality of water Promote watershed management as a more critical planning objective Complete intergovernmental assessments of watershed or hydraulic conditions at the 8 or 6 hydrologic unit codes Ways to collect and use as much runoff as possible Why focus on reservoirs Elevate watershed management to incorporate stormwater; evaluate useful water utilities More education on water harvesting commercially Watershed studies to improve runoff impact on storage quality Make use of local watershed protection plans and annuals reports Increase upstream capture and storage of stormwater for flood control Plan / implement green infrastructure to address return flows to rivers / creeks (increase / restore base flows) Focus on stormwater capture and use Establish a goal based on the load of the water extracted and the storm & waste water returned (set goal) More / Comprehensive considerations (paid to areas of pollution susceptibility (see Part V criteria)) re: BMPs implementation Is there collaboration between offering reuse - gray water infrastructure by water purveyors? Focus on capturing and storing stormwater in relation to degraded streams Inter-jurisdictional planning for stormwater (combine funding from jurisdictions)
Green Infrastructure/Low Impact Development o o o o o o
Incorporating bioswales and rain gardens into the planning process Permeable concrete - more use, less # of variances by local governments Promote GI & green spaces to elected officials and developers Pervious concrete paving Implement green infrastructure to address stormwater quality issues Better implementation of green infrastructure in stormwater programs
Coordination o o o o o o o o o o o o
Erosion control shouldn’t lie solely with the development office - needs to be integrated with stormwater regulations More coordination between counties and the cities in the county; Additional tools to require the coordination Better coordination between stormwater programs and wastewater programs Consistent interpretation and application of "Blue Book" requirements across jurisdictions Mechanisms to break down "silos" at local level for green infrastructure planning communication between water utilities and the local / municipal departments Coordination of EPD, District, and local government requirements for SWMP (stormwater management plan) and ordinances Coordination of master planning, zoning, and soil & water conservation districts Better agreement between Federal, State, and District permitting requirements Better collaboration between counties on protecting sedimentation issues Coordination and more cooperation between jurisdictions Separation of road department management of culverts vs. stormwater management Consolidate water quality / water quantity under a single organization
Regulatory o o o o o o o o o o o
Encourage communities to have different rule / ordinances for stormwater BMP retrofits than they do for new developments Require capture of stormwater for indoor and outdoor uses Encourage or require green infrastructure Dams & water control, Inspections & enforcement Land clearing; buffers not enforced Uniform stormwater runoff enforcement Erosion control DOT now exempt Require all counties (regardless of whether it's in or out of the Metro District) to implement a watershed protection plan & long-term monitoring program Cost of regulations More enforcement required Require better sediment control measures
o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o
Implement Ag BMPs as mandatory Require stream walks with public involvement Increase enforcement of silt retention on construction sites to improve water quality Consistent minimum requirements for utilities Enforce existing rule, completely fund enforcement Change green infrastructure to a requirements not an option Hold counties more responsible for their NPDES implementation if they are their own issuing authority Improve jurisdiction enforcement of regulations Encourage municipalities to enforce standards consistently Promote BMPs & requirements in CoA's stormwater ordinance to other areas More uniform stormwater management policy Try to have district-wide ordinances to level the playing field. We have effective regulations that are not being enforced! Enforcement! Expedite stormwater management utility districts within the 15 county ARC (Metro Water District) jurisdiction Recommendations to jurisdictions to change / modify code language for implementation of pervious paving structures Besides a fine for violations, require time spent on actually cleaning streams, etc. Stormwater laws / ordinances consistent across the state Watershed / stormwater emphasize by requiring certification and management authority Have more stringent controls on developers List the violators in the local newspaper, whether it is restaurants or industrial concerns. Bad publicity will cost more than some fines.
Incentives/Funding o o o o o o o o o o o o
Funding requirement Incentives for communities to de-list their streams from 303(d). Require some kind of action towards improvement Create stormwater credits for residents around subdivision "lakes"; helps with cost of maintenance of stormwater ponds Funding / reward for watershed improvements Build incentives for incremental improvements of impacted streams Mandated stormwater utility to aid funding Grants for stream bank restoration Better funding mechanisms Develop public / private cooperation for grant apps and projects Stormwater management via watershed funding Incentives to collect at initial runoff (i.e. rain barrels, cisterns, etc.) More resources for stormwater utility formation
o o o o o o o o o
Promote & incentivize green stormwater infrastructure in public projects and private development / re-development Have public educational incentive programs from citizens on how to protect watershed Create / develop sustainable financing mechanisms for funding stormwater infrastructure Create incentives / requirements for implementation of green infrastructure; ordinance, stormwater fee credits, grant programs County methods of fees to fund stormwater structures Fair and effective methods for paying for stormwater management program Green infrastructure for better water quality - credits Incentive programs for residential and commercial systems for new construction and retrofit / rehab for stormwater collection systems Encourage stormwater fee for all jurisdictions
Infrastructure o o o o o o o
Aging stormwater infrastructure and undersized stormwater systems Asset management program Capacity problems in sewer systems (Atlanta) during storms / discharges into rivers How to maintain items built (How to fund and maintain O&M of existing stormwater infrastructure) Better infrastructure planning (rehab) Oversize sewers in known flood zones Future management of stormwater ponds, etc. in development that are aging
Miscellaneous o
New dam methods / materials
Watershed Goals and Objectives for 2016 District Plan Update Technical Coordinating Committee Summary of Comments Received
[This page intentionally left blank]
Watershed Technical Coordinating Committee Comments (Total Comments – 112) General Stormwater Management o o o o o
Stormwater management requirements specific to linear projects (and associated BMPs) Effective action steps, make sure the action steps will work in all localities or add options (tool box) Simplify and reduce Blue Book standards Stream walks for IDDE! (replace outfall inspections) If infiltration of stormwater in piedmont soils is mandated, how will it be assessed for maintenance / effectively
Watershed Improvements o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o
Focus on NPS reductions to meet nutrient criteria Prioritize watershed for improvement Focus on Non-point sources (quality) / encourage nutrient trading between basins Increased stream restoration / rehabilitation Focus on biological health of streams More focus on stormwater runoff and the contaminants that enter streams because of it Implement watershed protection measures for agriculture Stream restoration Ag accountability Stream rehabilitation Less impervious surface Floodplain management and mapping Improve water quality Improve water quality Improve water quality such that streams and rivers meet their designated uses (fishing, recreation, drinking water) Clear nonpoint source controls and best practices for implementation Would maintaining trapping efficiency of existing ponds constitute a water quality improvement (Does sediment bind with nonpoint source pollutants, would dredging improve water quality?) Preservation of watersheds with green spaces acquisition, habitat conservation Stabilize / protect stream banks Improvements of riparian zones Protect watersheds through regulatory measures such as stream buffers, stormwater regulations, and other conservation measures
Education and Outreach o o o o o o o o o o o o
More focused public education on water quality management Training videos and sharing Educate elected officials on the value of using a watershed management approach Education about aging / failing infrastructure and costs to repair / replace Importance of stream walks Public involvement in stream walks Stream rehab benefits realized by properties impacted by participating in projects? (do the property owners realize the same or any benefits to stream rehab) Coordinate a workshop on BMPs: How to manage, How to enforce, How to maintain, especially where HOA's dissolve or never existed Training / certification targeted at field personnel (inspectors) Regional guidance of work on private property Encourage community groups / clubs to increase monitoring (AAS), stream clean-ups (Rivers Alive), and road clean-ups (AAR) Educate public on how they impact water quality
Data/Monitoring o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o
Monitor water quality Improved science for stormwater detention and BMP design - local research Disposables, fertilizers, sanitizers, Rx drugs, identify water unfriendly products Identify potential non-point source contributors Make process to de-list streams simpler as compared to listing streams Evaluate effectiveness of actions items before continuation or implementing Case studies or information to assist in making the case for stormwater utility Incorporate existing water quality and quantity data District wide annual WQ report How does capturing stormwater affect consumptive loss? Additional monitoring to aid in delisting stream segments from the impaired waters list Improve water quality - what is the goal? What about EDCs? (endocrine disrupting chemicals) Expand water quality monitoring efforts (more resources / funding) Watershed successes shared Identify and share the most effective BMPs Data evaluation and analysis Document water quality improvements Improve understanding of time required to achieve water quality improvements Develop a way to get streams un-listed for fish and bugs Better distribution of water quality treatment unit performance standards
o
Define objective for fecal coliform reduction (Human v. animal) Control all fecal or just human sources
Integrated Planning o o o o o o o
Encourage / facilitate use of quarries for stormwater storage / capture Long-term impacts of capturing runoff to stream base-flows Store stormwater and treat for water supply in certain locations Incorporate rainwater harvesting in new construction (incentives and ease of permitting) Strive to integrate water, wastewater, and stormwater master plans Integrate plans across the ACF Basin Regional vs local / individual detention
Green Infrastructure/Low Impact Development o o o o o
Focus on implementing impervious surface reductions Incorporate LID standards for new development Guidance on green infrastructure technology and credits Green infrastructure alternatives Top green infrastructure opportunities
Coordination o o o o o o o o o o o o o
Combine watershed audit requirements (district audits) with more of the stormwater requirements More inter-jurisdictional cooperation / communication Facilitate sharing of watershed management planning between jurisdictions Sharing of monitoring data between counties (local programs) Improve communication of data between different entities (agencies, consultants, universities) Correlation between plan & MS4 requirements; Phase 1 and Phase 2 differences Better "pictures" of where each jurisdiction has authority or responsibility (i.e. Federal, State, District, Local boundaries) Regional water quality database - better sharing of data Coordinate monitoring efforts amongst local, state, and nations (USGS) + data sharing Improve understanding of all watershed interests as they impact each other Better collaboration between District, EPD, and local government with goals / requirements Coordinate water quality across jurisdictions Shared data jurisdictionally
Regulatory o o
More emphasis of water quality, habitat, and aquatic life vs. number of inspections, etc. Require comprehensive stream walks to identify water quality problems at the source
o o o o o o o o
Do not push City of Atlanta ordinance on all jurisdictions, one approach does not fit all Development is accelerating: - Promote vigilant enforcement - Promote stormwater utility formation and impact funding Basic or foundational level common protection measures and goals throughout the watershed, this includes jurisdictions outside the district Enforce protection measures that are already in place Stronger penalties for violators / polluters Regulate septic: Is septic point or nonpoint? Improve SW (stormwater) system inspection during construction and post construction More widespread adoption of uniform stormwater management standards
Incentives/Funding o o o o o o o o
Simplified funding for stream rehabilitation Provide for adequate funding for watershed activities Make tax credits / incentives available for individual efforts (private individuals receiving benefits for stormwater practices) Make is easier for homeowners to stabilize / restore streams Regional help (funding, training) for stream bank stabilization Assist in funding for stream rehabilitation Incentivize water storage for future use Promote need for district-wide stormwater utility
Infrastructure o o o o
Promote stormwater asset management Can stormwater systems handle future / pale-climate regimes? Focus on littering & storm drain blockage Repairing aging infrastructure and implement water quality in the process
Cost/Benefit o o o o
Research / analyze cost effective BMPs Develop / provide cost and benefit information Find other - more cost effective ways to improve water quality other than making wastewater permits with lower and lower limits Improved info on cost v benefit
Miscellaneous o
Car washes
Wastewater Goals and Objectives for 2016 District Plan Update Basin Advisory Council Summary of Comments Received
Biosolids 5
4 4
5
Education
6 8
31
Energy Considerations FOG
6
Funding General
15
Gray Water Reuse Hazardous Waste Disposal 10
Infrastructure
29
Land Application 2 19
Master Planning Point vs. Non-Point Regulatory
27
6
3 1
1
Return Flows Reuse
[This page intentionally left blank]
Wastewater Basin Advisory Council Comments (Total Comments – 182) General o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o
Climate variability effects on stream base flow & assimilative capacity Go viral with amusing yet educational video on habits of “model family’s” water conservation Recharge water through distribution systems Conservation to minimize quantity Rate sewer systems on their quality (not based on overflows) Promote public private partnership (P3) legislation to promote private investment approaches to treatment - $$ fertilizer, side streams, FOG to biofuel, Reuse Supply, etc. Introduce US best practices Update technology Technology use in overflow observation Require inspections of infrastructure and public postings of results establish repair schedules Better in basin coordination Greater inter-jurisdictional coordination for collection and treatment Increase efficiency and sustainability of wastewater facilities on a regional basis. District should coordinate with local master plans Facilitate permitting of small isolated wastewater treatment plants (where constructing new lines to regional WWTPs is cost-prohibitive) Water treatment methods published for local treatment plants
Water Quality o o o o
Consider endocrine disruptors and other “new” contaminants of concern Very high quality return flows High Quality vs. Super High Quality Discharge Watch phosphorus to avoid Lake Jackson TMDL
Wastewater Education o o o o o
Outreach program to HOA’s & commercial to raise awareness Fats-Grease-Oil on sewer lines Continued education in public schools regarding appropriate things to put down sink drains Education for Wastewater reuse recycling by industries Continue pushing education of consumers on items such as grease in wastewater
Reuse o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o
Continue to improve the reuse of waste water Public outreach for wastewater treatment/reuse programs to get individuals involved in local plans/educate about uses of treated wastewater Identify options to bring wastewater into the water supply Treat it and recycle for use Reuse” capture the benefits of reusing treated wastewater while minimizing the need to source, develop, treat and distribute potable (overuse) water Direct potable Wastewater-drinking water, direct potable reuse Prohibit purple water & gray water systems Direct reuse should be explored Direct reuse “closed system” Promote direct reuse of treated wastewater Reuse-better understanding of ways and methods Reuse for outdoor water source Increase reclaimed reuse for irrigation Wastewater reuse Reuse consumptive use definition Reuse - Provide guidance on best use Reuse - Consider recommendations of indirect reuse Reuse - Closed loop systems Target reuse to areas with limited capacity or water quality issues Increasing "small" wastewater processing for returns to local reuse Maximize potable reuse Limit / restrict non-potable reuse where return to source water is a priority Identify and fund innovative reuse methods for wastewater Perhaps less push to non-potable reuse Increase education on indirect reuse More reuse planning Reuse: evaluate or eliminate non-potable reuse in basins lacking full returns of water withdrawn Encourage alternative treatment / reuse
Gray Water Reuse o o o o o
Promote use of gray water within watershed What are the laws/regulation that limit gray water reuse Review building plan requirements to reduce limits on re-use/gray water use Domestic reuse of gray water Gray water program incentives especially regarding "septic areas"
o o o o o
Consideration/Incentives for gray water systems to return to ground on-site vs. black water to sewer system (not all usable going to sewer) Gray water reuse Encourage gray water usage i.e. septic tank on residential side, purple pipe from treatment plants Require plan for utility gray water in new infrastructure development Facilitate gray water reuse in houses
Infrastructure o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o
Sewage treatment plant capacity during storms How to replace aging infrastructure with increased development? Combined sewers: 1) priority, 2) treatment storm water prior to WTP-Green Infrastructure Improve focus on infrastructure Infrastructure/FOG Infrastructure renewal plans for community (I&I) Need more inspection of old infrastructure & leakage into stormwater system Wastewater maintenance What proactive measures are water authorities taking to address aging infrastructure? Aging infrastructure assessment New wastewater technology for aging infrastructure (increase efficiency) Require asset management improvement plans for aging infrastructure Sewer line rehab Mandatory I&I program More robust asset management program requirements Property condition assessments on current systems Reduce infiltration and stormwater inflow Better rehabilitation planning Rehab existing collection infrastructure
Biosolids o o o o
Manage WWTP sludge disposal better Biosolids recycling Biosolids reuse and management Considerations for impacts from biosolids disposal / land application
Energy Considerations o o o
Mandate methane production and energy production from waste Incentivize capture of methane from anaerobic plants to generate power/lower cost of treatment. Be more overall sustainable Septic waste is good for energy production in digester - explore
o o o
Consider energy input costs for achieving high quality effluents Use of grease as a fuel Identify opportunities to generate energy from wastewater / harvest nutrients
Fats, Oils and Grease (F.O.G.) o o o o o o o o
My wife thinks “FOG” describes state I’m in, not what she needs to stop sending down disposal Increase public education on FOG Push FOG education program! To reduce WW processing costs Expand grease trap requirements to new construction of high density housing Increase education on FOG Increase education to households on FOG disposal Grease traps for large systems and developments Release of grease to water supply metrics
Funding o o o o o
Funding earmarks for specific aspects of waste Infrastructure aging funding Leaks & clogs in aging infrastructure causing waste water escape before it can be treated- Can we find funds to help poorer areas do repairs/rebuild? Encourage public private joint venture with new developments to construct micro-sewer systems with incentives for future use rates Funding to help small municipalities upgrade aging infrastructure to improve effluent
Hazardous Waste Disposal o o
Hazardous waste program collection, Public programs, Annual collection events with corporate sponsors Education to public on hazardous chemicals
Land Application o
Consider land application of effluents
Master Planning o o o
Capacity projections Impact of land planning for wastewater systems Implement water efficiency programs to address wastewater capacity needs
Point vs Non-Point o
MEP (Max Extent Practical) vs. permit trading
Regulatory o o o o o o
Tighter regulation on CSO Set Date for meeting standards & no extensions i.e. ATL DeKalb. Reassess inter basin discharge policy Increase fines to US waters. This will allow greater revenue to be utilized for enforcement Hold private industry commercial companies accountable for their wastewater violations Fund EPD to the extent they can actually assure municipalities maintain their collection systems properly
Return Flows o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o
Credit for return flows Consider interbasin transfers: importance, regulation Minimize return flows Return Flows Count returns Plan for capture of reuse water on land application to return to treatment plant. Done in Arizona using underground tiling system. Reconcile conflict between need for return flows and water reuse Treat wastewater enough to return to water supply Credit for return flows Full accounting of return flows Return flows - Increase priority of return flows in the revised plan More % return = Wastewater/Water Supply Evaluate reuse concerning return flows Evaluate incorporating return flows from septic tanks Interbasin transfers (jurisdiction) Tie a raw-water allocation program of increased-allotment to returns made at elevated purity levels (EPL). I.E. 10 MGD return of EPL garners additional 5 MGD allotment of raw water Clear direction from EPD on reuse vs. returns to receiving waters Septic tank effectiveness data for return flows Interbasin transfers considerations Maximize return flows to source waters Return flows to basin and direct re-use Maximize returns Credit for returns Encourage return Re-evaluate return flow Return flows - assess and plan across planning district boundaries (w/ regional water councils) Increase return flows to basin of origin
Septic o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o
Reduction of # of septic tanks: county regulations for no more septic Better options for septage management Pumping of septic systems, finding greener methods of disposal Increased septic education Promote ways to eliminate septic systems near lakes and streams Corollary to aging infrastructures, aging septic systems Encourage local governments to handle septic from their jurisdictions Education on septic Septic Management Require cities & counties to install low pressure sewer systems & grinders around lake Regulate septic tank haulers more stringently Regulate septic discharges & ensure its not running into lake Septic maintenance requirements: require manifests Implement septic inspections Better understanding of septic return flows Septic tank pumping water treatment To what extent does water from septic systems return to groundwater & streams Buffers increased for septic system / state waters Septic / Grease Tank required maintenance programs Discourage septic tanks Septic - Consumptive Use?? Options for installation of meters/rates for flows re-entering ground vs. re-entering sewer (not septic systems) Explore ways to handle septage Septic system management and maintenance Septage replacement policies / old system Septic pump out schedules Better information sharing of State Health Department septic records with local jurisdictions Planning for septage usage / zoning Septic tank program / incentives to educate citizens Encourage sewer system expansions or discourage septic tank installations Septic tank rehabilitation
Treatment Considerations o o o
Ensure best practices and best available treatment technologies in treatment plants A greater attention on green implementation and green space to promote water quality from treatment plant out flows Encourage innovative tech for onsite disposal
o o
Wastewater treatment effluent - Promote constructed wetland approaches - Final polishing treatment - Recharge groundwater - Retain water - Habitat beauty Collect stormwater from whole utility site to help dilute effluent
[This page intentionally left blank]
Wastewater Goals and Objectives for 2016 District Plan Update Technical Coordinating Committee Summary of Comments Received
[This page intentionally left blank]
Wastewater Technical Coordinating Committee Comments (Total Comments – 123) General o o o o o o o
Change the Wastewater Plan name to "Water Resource Recovery" Reduce Education Present the plans in the context of the ACF basin. Tell our good story, promote other areas catching up. Integration of all three plans Reduce CSO volume by 20% over 5 years. Consider more guidance on de-centralized wastewater systems
Water Quality o o o o o o o
Assure adequate assimilative capacity Unified public education message regarding pharmaceuticals - effects on water quality & health, disposal methods, etc. District wide annual WQ report Tracking new pollutants - chemicals, drugs Lower nutrient loading using modeling Change from septic (onsite wastewater treatment) to municipal sanitary sewer service to improve water quality. New technology to improve water quality
Wastewater Education o
Water cycle by public outreach
Reuse o o o o o o o o o
Inform/Educate: IPR Guidelines - Reuse Increase safe use of biosolids reuse water Develop clear reuse standards Encourage wastewater reuse in plumbing systems (toilets, urinals) Types of reuse evaluated Non-consumptive reuse - increase practices for displacing potable water usage Reuse has to make economic sense: Cost of additional infrastructure vs. use of potable water. Short Term vs. Long Term. Assessment of role of reuse in supply for alternative uses: Irrigation/cooling towers Educate the public on the safety of "reused" water
o o o o
Encourage reuse, i.e. watering golf courses, composting solids from WWTPs etc. Public education: Safety of reuse Push for water reuse Encourage reuse
Gray Water Reuse o o
Improve reuse or gray water use Recommendations on gray water usage
Infrastructure o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o
Assess and grade infrastructure with goal of eliminating spills and leaks Focus on aging infrastructure Aging infrastructure concerns Greater emphasis on asset management Collection system management Program to ensure problems with aging failing infrastructure are inspected/repaired proactively rather than reactively Promote system reliability Proactive repair/replacement of aging infrastructure Promote CMOM programs Evaluate practices that reduce maintenance cost. Include focus on Inflow and Infiltration (I&I) Funding for rehabilitation Find funding to rehab existing systems Properly abandon sub-divisions not built Inspect stream crossings Increase I&I programs in counties/cities Public education: Pipe rehab Cost/needs aging infrastructure
Biosolids o
Biosolids strategies
Energy Considerations o o o o o
Encourage investigation of gas-to-energy projects Integrate nutrients and energy recovery as part of the plan Encourage energy conservation Utilize-bio uptake / green infrastructure Net energy zero considered
Fats, Oils and Grease (FOG) o o o o o o
FOG education Increase FOG education Continue FOG programs FOG education - pouring hazardous chemicals down drains Multi-family and Household FOG recycling More FOG and non-disposable education
Hazardous Waste Disposal o
Household hazardous waste programs for disposal
Master Planning o o o o
Need holistic policy that considers the balance of the entire water cycle. Integration of water supply and wastewater planning Expand systems to limit expansion of septic Integration of illicit discharge elimination efforts amongst MS4s
Point vs. Non-Point o o o o
Can enhanced (higher levels) of wastewater treatment be credited for non-point source pollutant goals (overlap?) Find ways to limit stream loading other than just limiting wastewater permits. There may be more cost effective ways to improve water quality. Wastewater treatment is getting expensive. Integrate wastewater discharge into other water quality issues to convey emphasis on contributing factors - i.e. Wastewater vs. point source vs. non-point, etc. Nutrient limits in point source discharge permits do not address primary source: non-point source runoff.
Regulatory o o o o o
Partner with or use GAWP/EPD Indirect Potable Reuse Guidelines Streamline permitting Permitting requirements Revisit regulations on wastewater effluent into watersheds Integration with EPD and rule making
Return Flows o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o
Move away from LAS - EPD affordability exercise - encourage water return to sources Make a decision - Return flow (consumptive use) vs. reuse Credit reuse as returns in basin Encourage return flow credits Coordinate WW discharges with downstream withdrawals More opportunities to expand/recognize indirect potable reuse Figure out return flows by service area Consider return flows from septic systems Account for septic tank effluent return flow to stream Maximize returns/IPR Credits for return flows - Direct and Indirect Emphasize direct or indirect reuse Resolve conflict between reuse irrigation or land application (consumptive ?) and return flows Credit for wastewater returns More consumer friendly info on returns to source vs. consumptive use. LAS vs. Direct Discharge - Impact on consumptive use and water supply Get credits for return flows, Example: to Lake Lanier Align consumptive reuse with wastewater return goals Septic tanks are not 100% consumptive Returns/consumptive use goals - What really makes sense? Can we revisit? Decrease interbasin transfers Maximizing return flow vs. reuse?
Septic o o o o o o o o o o o o o
Septage hauler regulation Septage disposal options Bring septic into jurisdictional oversight/funding Promote periodic maintenance of septic systems Facilitate conversion of septic to sewer Expand/include aged septic areas Septic and LAS are important and necessary in long term development plans Promote zero-discharge systems in newer exurban communities Greater reporting on septic waste disposal within District Incentives for maintenance/replacement of septic systems Communication of areas with septic tank failures Improve septic tank inspections and management More education materials on septic systems
Treatment Considerations o o
Cost vs. Benefit of new technologies Incorporate impacts of future efficiency in water use on dry-weather flows.
[This page intentionally left blank]
Water Supply and Water Conservation Goals and Objectives for 2016 District Plan Update Basin Advisory Council Summary of Comments Received
00
23 Water Conservation Reservoirs 45 3
Alternate water supplies Reuse
4
Stormwater/GI/LID Wastewater Drought
17
Broad Planning and Policy Topics Education and outreach Return Flows 9
14 13
[This page intentionally left blank]
Water Supply and Water Conservation Basin Advisory Council Comments (Total Comments – 128) Water Conservation o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o
Reward those that conserve water How to reward industries / businesses for reduction / conservation Encourage & incentivize new devices & technologies for water conservation for industrial and commercial customers; new construction- commercial & residential Continue to incentivize water saving fixtures Need more incentive programs Rebate programs Need more rebate programs Aging residential infrastructure Water saving toilets Increase funding for low flow toilet program More use of water saving toilets, dual flush toilets Expand multi-toilet rebate program Create a metric conservation institute that certifies meter systems, homes and has the know how to teach others (like a LEED type system) Develop more metrics (conservation goals, water loss goals) Funding Rate structures Target high water users Better define water conservation rate structure More restrictive rate structure to reduce waste Allocate research & development to water authoritiesAlternative income sources that promote conservation. Leak Detection Reporting of leaks Repair of leaks may be lowest cost Better implementation of conservation measures Focus on new and existing conservation technologies Conservation research & development linked to Best Management Practices Capture U.S. best practices for next steps /Innovative conservation programs New construction – moisture sensors Phased retrofits of private irrigation systems using public water supplies Improve education / outreach for existing conservation programs Promote conservation constantly Education programs for conservation that center around a value rather than just fixture Continue radio spots/ads for water conservation
o o o o o o o o o o
Ways to encourage conservation even during times of plenty of water/non-drought guidance on specific recommendations Increase frequency of water audits Define end-uses of “conserved” water Calculate amount of water conserved since Metro Plan implemented Enforce current water conservation measures Require instead of encourage new water conservation technology for new & replacement construction Consistent water conservation across municipalities -for new development conservation = water source Consideration of costs: 1 oz. of prevention is worth tons of cure.
Reservoirs o o o o o o o o o o o o o o
Raise full pool at Lake Lanier Increase reservoir capacities with new and existing infrastructure Water storage programs: dam height, liners, new Simplify /Streamline reservoir process for approving reservoirs to improve water supply Reallocation of federal reservoirs: revise the operating plans, revise the water supply allocation, reduce flood storage Lake Lanier 1073 /add two feet to Lanier /26+billion gallons/ Build support for raising Lake Lanier normal pool to support needs of all water users Develop smaller reservoirs for areas suffering from localized flooding Focus on additional water storage to mitigate drought conditions Are reservoirs actually the low cost solution? Reservoirs for city/county use Reservoirs - Better education more coordination to determine where best to be build More state managed reservoirs New reservoirs
Alternate Water Sources o o o o o o o o
Explore new water supply sources Tennessee River- watershed size in North Georgia is the size of the Chattahoochee River above Peachtree Creek- Atlanta’s Watershed Area. Relatively small amount of Savannah, Hiawassee, and Tennessee need to be part of the water supply picture Basin boundary expansion to supplement Tennessee, Hartwell, Catt/Flint/Etowah What is available beyond Lake Lanier and Lake Allatoona? Inter-jurisdictional supply flexibility Facilitate additional water supply by encouraging cooperation between counties/cities. Cross jurisdictional issues must be overcome- especially the “politics”
o o o o o
Develop new supply options: ASR (aquifer storage recovery) and Reuse ACE/EPD SHALL vs. should tie allocations to “stewardship”: considerations for increased allocation Long-term planning for water supply Consider aquifer refresh project Ground water recharge as party of supply
Reuse o o o o o o o o
Stormwater Direct potable Require direct reuse Oppose reuse that is for consumptive usage Promote reuse constantly Innovative reuse programs to relieve supply side pressures (demand) Develop indirect potable reuse guidelines Begin phasing in budgets for gray water systems by municipalities.
Stormwater/Low Impact Development/Non-Point Source o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o
Stormwater as water supply Less water intense landscapes, reduce runoff Research funding sources for assisting in funding green roof stormwater technology Integrate stormwater collection & management with new supply development Capture of rainfall & storage to be a larger component of the % of needs- tied to stormwater management- recommendations & incentives Strongly encourage the use of more green infrastructure Specific ways to encourage green infrastructure water reuse to impact conservation of water Harness stormwater runoff into water supply resources (impervious surfaces in particular) Incentivize rainwater capture for non-potable uses / Reuse of stormwater --outdoor and Indoor water use Rain barrels for local residential use Individual and local rainfall harvesting Develop sustainable means to store stormwater for later use Reducing green waste and landscape runoff into the watershed Encourage xeriscaping to reduce landscape irrigation Continued education re: NPS and the average citizen Promote new zoning codes and promote water quality More use of permeable concrete buffers
Wastewater o o o o
Explore and implement as appropriate new technologies for treating waste water Explore water waste enforcement Consider measuring "new" contaminants of concerns/endocrine disruptors in the water supply What effect do leaking sewer lines have on stream water quality
Drought o o o
Drought Planning Water supply for drought management Regional drought contingency plans
Broad Planning and Policy Topics o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o
o o o o o o
Connecting supply with planning for growth Regional / Long term planning Water rights Share best practices among smaller entities healthy flows Develop a process to say what is required for "healthy flow" in streams watershed planning Water supply should be the driving force(high priority) in future planning growth Accurate and consistent forecast data on demand Update water need projections Define “sustainability” Via # Gallons per day/per person: sustainable “quality of life”, sustainable “level of service” before approving increased allocations Publicized the results - "Outstanding" Determine who uses most of water and help them Improve protections & monitoring of water supply input sources State law should look at issues of transfer of water Call for a judicial summary judgment on the Lake Lanier water wars. The longer this is in question, many goals and programs are in the ‘what if’ category instead of having a set foundation FL's suit asserts that GA has affirmative duty to augment ACF basin water equitable appointment doctrine Increase pressure of flow in homes Penalties for our projections FL's comments on Corps EIS scoping for ACF Manual assert that NEPA requires Corps to consider alternatives including IBTs into ACF Reduce times for permits for water supply Promote REGIONAL funding of water supply
o
State Plan needs to determine where future Metro supply should originate, not just Metro District
[This page intentionally left blank]
Water Supply and Water Conservation Goals and Objectives for 2016 District Plan Update Technical Coordinating Committee Summary of Comments Received
6
5
Water Conservation 53
Reservoirs Alternate water supplies
Reuse Stormwater/GI/LID
66
Wastewater Drought Broad Planning and Policy Topics 6
Education and outreach Return Flows
16 4
5
1
8
[This page intentionally left blank]
Water Supply and Water Conservation Technical Coordinating Committee Comments (Total Comments – 170) Water Conservation o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o
o o o o o o o o o o o o
Cooling tower efficiency improvements (cycles of concentration) Encourage stronger sliding scale fees for water use Encourage evaluation of conservation/efficiency in terms of deferred infrastructure and O&M costs Encourage water use profiles to help focus conservation plans Encourage reuse process water toilet flushing irrigation Water conservation requirements for S/D HOA's (irrigation systems w/rain gage monitors) Take a more incentive based approach rather than code penalty approach for conservation Tie water conservation to reservoir capacity and per capita usage Rethink water audits requirements New water conservation technology and increased awareness Conservation incentives Encourage/reward retrofits of older construction Mandate water conservation technology for new construction Clarify the cost versus benefit of the various types of water conservation Better education for politicians on rates / conservation impacts Commercial water audits Utilities and local jurisdictions should not be required to conduct commercial water audits. We are not experts. Water use and technologies vary widely among industries…they should conduct their own water audits because they are the most qualified Develop performance standards and efficiency 20x20 (like CA) Align outdoor restrictions with local system available raw water source capacity Standardized reporting of water use/consumption (EPD water use and efficiency reporting guidance) Commercial/industry conservation plans Ensure all conservation measures are exhausted prior to building new reservoirs Measure current conservation measures to make sure they are effective Develop strategies to reduce potable water usage (efficient toilet rebate program, rainwater collection systems for irrigation and toilet operation) Aggressive water efficiency policies / programs that build toward benchmarks/goals Develop more rigorous stands and requirements for indoor conservation in the restaurant & hospitality industries (hotels!) Provide incentive for retrofitting fixtures Support development of sustainable supplies through water efficiency (potable use, interconnections) Price water at a level that supports utility and incentives efficiency
o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o
Verifying accuracy of meters for large commercial and industrial operations Individual Economic evaluations for non-revenue water and water loss control (component analysis) Required meter testing - Meter Change Out Program Do rate structures encourage conservation while sustaining utility reservoirs? Assess at all utilities Mandatory leak detection program Education on conservation Make leak detection a required service by purveyors Greater leak detection / loss prevention More aggressive conservation goals continue education on water conservation Collaborate with agricultural user regional councils on water conservation practices Better exchange of water conservation methods/practices between various local jurisdictions Public education on how important water conservation continues to be feasible water conservation at the industrial, institutional and individual levels Help utilities take next steps identified in water loss audits Raise irrigation meter rates More rigorous requirement for asset management Focus on non-revenue water Initiate incentives for water storage and or conservation No more rebates or free giveaways. Burden to utilities: cost, time and personnel Municipality certification as a top water conservation city/county? Defined goals similar to LEED certification commercial water audits should be on the industry not utility District commercial water audit service similar to toilet rebate program
Reservoirs o o o o o o
Facilitate development of more local reservoirs Encourage and promote regional reservoirs Develop new water supply reservoirs (encourage regional or multi-county reservoirs & shared distribution Reservoirs? Better management of existing reservoirs Fewer new reservoirs
Alternate Water Sources o o o
Facilitate conversion of quarries to WS storage Supply alternatives to Lake Lanier Start planning study for using desalinization
o o o o o o o o o o o o o
Pursue the possibilities of utilizing the Tennessee River Basin resource Whole county evaluation for additional water supply If county is limited on water supply look at neighboring counties for excess supply and assist in cost share Rain water storage Rain water retention Identify and fund future water supply methods maximize interconnection possibilities Increase rainwater harvesting Use rainwater harvesting as an actual water source for utilities Evaluate small scale rainwater harvesting Programs to promote rainwater harvesting to reduce potable water demand significantly Implementation of strategic new water supply sources water supply sharing to facilitate regional drought relief solution
Reuse o o o o o o o o
Potable Reuse Encourage reuse systems (Property Tax Reduction, Reduced Water/Sewer Rates) on large scale projects Planning guidance and public education for potable reuse Highlight / encourage water reuse Infrastructure 'grey' limitations Expand "GREY" potable systems Increase reuse for non-potable uses Increase reuse of reclaimed water
Stormwater/Green Infrastructure/Low Impact Development o o o o o
Focus on capture and reuse component of GI Encourage minimizing impervious surface in new development to increase infiltration and ground water supply for streams Support development of sustainable supplies through green infrastructure to restore flows Ideas for collecting, funding, and using flood waters / rain water How residents could effectively collect and utilize rain water
Wastewater o
cost effective waste water treatment technology innovations
Drought o o o o
EPD drought management plan Initiate drought planning sooners as entering drought Increase water storage for droughts Promote drought supply plans
Broad Planning and Policy Topics o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o
Project scenarios of water demand and supply under varying weather, climate, development (population) and economic conditions Consider changes in climate on available water supplies Data on effectiveness of existing water conservation measures Consistent private development policies Ordinances for green building requirements for new development Integrate results of technical resource assessments done for State Water Plan Irrigation systems standards Use water use and reporting guidance once finalized by EPD Make stronger stormwater runoff reduction and water conservation relationship Integration of stormwater management with water conservations Consider how to plan for limiting growth to match projected water supply Work in state water audits results and plans Focus more on integrated water and wastewater management Improvement of existing infrastructure Connection of water sources and returns among other jurisdictions Connection to wastewater and stormwater Shared Resources Details of use of management gaps (by jurisdictions) Provide a toolbox for action steps so there can be options for various counties Coordinate with wastewater reuse irrigation is not conservation Minimum release requirements should be based on measureable science Ensure reliable supplies in source waters through effective flow policies and enforce through permitting Water privatization Invest $ in efficiency - develop sustainable financing mechanisms for efficiency (PACE, Corporate sponsorships) Overlay of current water supply, historical water supply and projected water supply based on population - in gallons Overlay of rain water during each season by year Self-sufficiency to protect utility source Identify more and fund usage(s) of wastewater for reuse Planning - interstate water supply identification, goals, and resources
o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o
More accurate methods of evaluating future growth projections/water needs Incorporate uncertainty from climate variability and economic factors into forecasting and conservation Means of properly protecting new reservoirs through increased buffers, more stringent rules, watershed protection Identify ways to streamline reservoir permitting Cost analysis of engineering solutions for next 20 years (include cost of inflation) and potential new technology Address water efficiency and conservation in supply planning (quantify supply gained by efficiency measures and incorporate into projections and planning) Include energy saving in conservation data Streamline regulatory process for developing water supply focus on reuse as conservation Focus on future water supply with regards to potential environmental impacts - e.g. Droughts Improve water supply reservoir permitting and bureaucracy Reduce regulatory barriers for new reservoir construction Integrate with other plans across the ACF Basin Work together to figure out how to address limited water supply (what is sustainable) Discourage expanding new infrastructure and encourage maintenance and improvement of existing infrastructure Publish monthly statistics of actual water withdrawals as reported by permit holders Create interbasin transfer policy to limit/examine IBTS Partnerships Stream bank Restoration - Army Corps, USGS, ETC) Recognition of existing water supply investment Cost versus benefit payback Cost versus benefit of plan implementation Give time for conservation measures currently in the plans to mature Water loss assessment strategies Government/utilities model best management practices Interbasin transfer guidance Clarity on private/public water supply Credit for conservation measures in place. Can't get blood from a turnip minimize programs where utility bears the financial burden the funding paradox: more conservation less revenue from sale of water minimize pollution of existing water supply cost payback analysis on all new plan requirements document per capita consumption trend balance water supply for human use with water supply for plants, wildlife and downstream use analysis of water supply after the new drought of record Understand that each jurisdiction has its own special needs/concerns. We are all not Lake Lanier
Education and Outreach o o o o o
Repeat themes throughout district Highlight successes to-date for conservation and reuse Coordinate w/BOE to educate importance of conservation Education regarding value/cost of reliable water supply Educational integration between storm water and water supply conservation
Return Flows o o o o o o
Aggressively pursue supply point credits for return flows Decided how to use / reuse war and not harm return flow credits Give credit for return flow Encourage return flows to minimize consumptive use credit for returns credit return of reclaimed after to water withdrawal
