Water Well Journal
Issue link: http://read.dmtmag.com/i/498253
Biology lessons If you suspect a coliform problem, in addition to the aforementioned tests, it is advised you confirm the coliform oc- currence and also rule out the presence of E. coli–specific coliforms. In addi- tion, quantifying the coliform presence and having the dominant species identi- fied can help further understand the problem and identify whether the issue is a fouled well or contamination. Biological testing is unique in that often the timing of the test is due more to the bacteria's behavior and response to the testing media than a set time reference. Slow-growing cultures may require additional time before identification and assessment can be made. The allowable time frame may dictate what method, and accordingly, what information you can learn. Procedures such as the ATP method may provide you a quantitative assess- ment in a matter of a few minutes as opposed to a traditional HPC test which typically requires a growth period of several days for representative growth. If a sample shows signs of turbidity, sediment, or settling solids, it is advised the sample be evaluated microscopi- cally. Microscopic evaluation of a sam- ple under low power (20 to 400 times magnification) can help in identifying the influence of clay, silt, and fine grain size sediment on a well system. The evaluation can also be used to identify corrosion byproducts and surface water influence. Capacity and production loss, corro- sion, foul odors, discolored water, and water treatment concerns can be caused by natural water chemistry and micro- bial populations found within a well system. Knowing the reason for these changes and understanding the problems that can occur is important in maintain- ing an efficient well. Assessing the bio- logical activity and water chemistry within a well system helps determine the well's overall cleanliness and assess system operation. The benefits to testing are often lim- ited by the understanding of the tests being run. Testing should be conducted following a discussion between all par- ties involved to identify what the reason is for the testing, what tests will be con- ducted, and how the samples should be collected. By discussing your project with the laboratory beforehand, you should be able to get a good idea of the lab's capabilities, sample collection requirements, and the time required for testing. Evaluating laboratory testing data in conjunction with annual pump tests, a video survey, and a well site inspection is an important part of well mainte- nance. As with medical testing, the more information you know, the better you can respond. Testing can help identify the early onset of fouling problems, typically in advance of the need for complete reha- bilitation. For the municipal well owner, proactive periodic biological and chemi- cal monitoring can help lower treatment costs, such as maintaining chlorine residuals in distribution lines, and re- ducing costly unscheduled maintenance. CALL AIR PUMP WATER SOLUTIONS INC. 1-877-423-7629 OR VISIT AIR-PUMP.COM How can you take care of iron and sulfur problems and remain competitive? It's a breeze! The Breeze Aeration System is a superior alternative to expensive packaged systems. Air volume and pump activation is controlled with a simple digital timer, significantly reducing cost and improving performance. All components available to customize & simplify your install. The Breeze — Aeration Made Simpler! • No Pressure Switch Wiring • No Flow Switch • No Over or Under-Aerating • No Leaky Vents • Outstanding Value Installation is a Breeze! Reliable Performance! for sulfur and iron problems e Bree TM Twitter @WaterWellJournl Michael Schnieders, PG, PH-GW, is a hydrogeologist and senior consultant for Water Systems Engineering in Ottawa, Kansas. He has an extensive background in groundwater geochemistry, geomicrobiology, and water resource investi- gation and management. He can be reached at mschnieders@h2osystems.com. WWJ May 2015 25 DACUM Codes To help meet your professional needs, this article covers skills and competen- cies found in DACUM charts for drillers and pump installers. DO refers to the drilling chart and PI represents the pumps chart. The letter and number immediately following is the skill on the chart covered by the article. This article covers: DOF-2, DOG-9, DOK-8, PIC-1, PIE-21, PIF-8, PIG-2, PIG-7 More information on DACUM and the charts are available at www.NGWA.org. Follow Best Suggested Practices at Well Sites The National Ground Water Association's best suggested practices are designed to aid groundwater professionals at industry job sites. They are not standards, but practices that have been demonstrated to show superior results. Go to www.NGWA.org and find practices on combatting arsenic, boron, hydrogen sulfide, iron, methane, microorganisms, and more. WWJ