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Natural Systems Utilities News
Spotlight on a Business Partner: Natural Systems Utilities
Spotlight on a Business Partner:
Natural Systems Utilities
Natural Systems Utilities (NSU), a new BPC 2024 business partner, is an environmental firm specializing in the design, construction, and operations of decentralized water treatment, wastewater treatment, and water reuse solutions, including Innovative and Alternative (I/A) Systems. Working with private, municipal, institutional, and commercial entities, NSU helps its clients meet long-term stewardship and sustainability goals. NSU’s mission statement is one that BPC members can really get excited about: “To reimagine water by providing innovative solutions that safeguard the world’s water resources.”
Established in 1984 and headquartered in New Jersey, NSU’s original focus for expansion was in the Northeast, where it has had a presence in Massachusetts for over 25 years. NSU’s 2019 purchase of Bennett Environmental Associates, a Brewster-based environmental engineering firm established by Brewster resident Dave Bennett, is how the BPC connected with NSU when its Vice President, Adam Stern, attended the BPC-sponsored talk given by Mr. Bennett titled “Decentralized Wastewater Management” at the Brewster Ladies Library last spring. NSU has additional offices in California and Minnesota.
A fan of Cape Cod, Adam has been coming to the Cape for years. His earliest memories are of walking out onto the sands at low tide in Ptown. He has been at NSU for 30 years and has led the engineering and construction groups, and currently serves in a Business
Development role.
Unveiling the Time Capsule of Natural Systems Utilities
Celebrating 40 Years of Innovation: Unveiling the Time Capsule of Natural Systems Utilities
As Natural Systems Utilities (NSU) proudly marks its 40th anniversary, we recently took a nostalgic journey back in time by opening a time capsule buried 25 years ago. This special occasion not only celebrates four decades of growth and innovation but also highlights the enduring dedication of our team members who have been the backbone of our success.
A Glimpse into the Past
The time capsule, carefully sealed and buried a quarter-century ago, was unearthed with much anticipation. What lay inside offered a fascinating glimpse into the world of the 1990s and the early days of our company. Among the items discovered were:
– Newspapers: These papers provided a snapshot of the world as it was 25 years ago, capturing the headlines and major events of the time. It was a reminder of how much has changed in the world, and in our industry, since then.
– Desk Phone: A classic symbol of pre-digital communication, the desk phone served as a reminder of how far technology has come. The transition from these phones to today’s sophisticated communication tools reflects the rapid advancements in our field.
– Floppy Disk: Once a staple for data storage, the floppy disk represented the early days of digital information management. Today, we’ve moved to cloud-based systems and cutting-edge technology, but it’s fascinating to see where we started.
– Ford L8000 Diesel Truck Badge: This 1980s emblem from a Ford L8000 Diesel truck was a testament to the equipment and machinery that supported our early operations. It symbolized the hard work and dedication that went into building our infrastructure.
– Branded Items from Applied Water Management: Before becoming Natural Systems Utilities, we operated under the name Applied Water Management. The branded items from this earlier era were a poignant reminder of our roots and the foundational values that have guided us through the years.
Reflecting on Our Journey
As we look back, it’s evident that our journey has been marked by significant milestones and remarkable achievements. From our humble beginnings as Applied Water Management to becoming Natural Systems Utilities, our evolution reflects not just technological progress but also the unwavering commitment of our employees.
Our success is deeply intertwined with the hard work, dedication, and passion of our team members—both past and present. Their commitment to our clients and to advancing our mission has been instrumental in our growth and achievements.
A Heartfelt Thank You
To all our employees, past and present, we extend our deepest gratitude. Your tireless efforts and steadfast dedication have been crucial in shaping our company’s history and success. This milestone is not just a celebration of our past but also a tribute to the incredible people who have made it all possible.
Looking Forward
As we celebrate this 40th anniversary and reflect on the past, we are also excited about the future. The time capsule serves as a reminder of how far we’ve come and inspires us to continue pushing boundaries and striving for excellence.
Thank you for being an integral part of Natural Systems Utilities’ journey. Here’s to many more years of innovation, growth, and success. Together, we’ll continue to advance our mission of providing exceptional water management solutions.
#MissionWater
NATURAL SYSTEMS UTILITIES ANNOUNCES EXECUTIVE LEADERSHIP CHANGES
Hillsborough, NJ – Following the closing of the acquisition of Natural Systems Utilities (NSU) by Nijhuis Saur Industries, Saur’s Industrial Water Solutions Division in January this year, we are delighted to announce the following changes in the Executive Leadership Team as part of the implementation of our accelerated growth strategy and the successful integration in NSI’s global organization.
Effective June 1, 2024 Zach Gallagher has been promoted to President & Chief Executive Officer. Zach’s exceptional leadership and vision in his previous role as COO have been instrumental in the company’s success, and we are confident that he will lead NSU to new heights in his new role.
Debbie Burke has been promoted to Chief Administrative & Human Resources Officer. Debbie has consistently demonstrated her commitment to the team’s well-being and organizational efficiency. Her expanded role will allow her to further enhance our administrative and HR functions and support the expansion of the team.
Jen Cohn will be promoted to Vice President of Finance and Treasurer. Jen’s financial acumen and strategic insights have been invaluable, and we are excited to see her take on this critical leadership position.
Additionally, Bill Massa stepped down as Chief Executive Officer to serve as an Advisor to NSU. Bill’s leadership and dedication have been pivotal in our achievements, and we are grateful for his continued support in his new advisory role.
Bill Massa comments “It has been an honor and a privilege to work with this incredible team. I am extremely proud of what we have accomplished together. I leave the day to day business knowing that the leadership of this company is in great and experienced hands and we are now part of a market-leading company. Together with our group, Zach, Deb, and Jen will undoubtedly drive NSU to new successes. I look forward to continuing to support NSU in my new role and supporting the company’s continued growth and achievements.”
Zach Gallagher comments “I am honored and excited to step into the role of CEO at NSU. I would like to thank Bill for his leadership and commitment to NSU and am grateful for the trust and confidence placed in me by the entire team. We are looking forward to building on our successes and working closely with NSI’s global team to continue driving our #MissionWater forward. Together, we will navigate this period of growth and integration, ensuring that NSU remains at the forefront of the industry and to make sure that our valued customers will fully benefit from the extensive portfolio of technologies, solutions, and services our group is offering to address the water challenges around the globe.
About Natural Systems Utilities (NSU):
NSU is a leader in distributed water reclamation and reuse innovation, currently operating over 300 systems across the United States, including the largest base of onsite reuse and natural treatment systems. NSU’s approach offers clients fully integrated and cost-effective solutions that incorporate award-winning innovations in system design. With over 40 years of experience, NSU has built the unique capability to structure a full range of design, build, operations and ownership project solutions. Their reputation has been built on best-in-class execution capability, and on long-term shared-value partnerships with the people and communities served.
Ground-Breaking
On April 16, 2024, Natural Systems Utilities attended the ground-breaking at Northpoint’s Turnpike 1 commercial facility in Pilesgrove Township, Salem County, New Jersey. NSU designed, and is now building, a 70,000 gallon per day water treatment system with recharge to groundwater. Pictured third from left is Fred Heekin, Development Manager of Northpoint, and fifth from left is Adam G. Stern, PE, Vice-President of NSU.
Design-Build Water Reuse
In the pursuit of sustainable water management, design-build water reuse projects are emerging as innovative solutions to address the pressing challenges of water scarcity and pollution. By integrating engineering expertise with holistic design principles, these projects harness the potential of water reuse to transform wastewater into a valuable resource. In this blog, we explore the concept of design-build water reuse, its benefits, implementation strategies, and the transformative impact it holds for creating more resilient and sustainable water systems.
Understanding Design-Build Water Reuse
Design-build water reuse involves a collaborative approach that integrates the design, construction, and operation of water reuse systems into a single, streamlined process. Unlike traditional project delivery methods that separate design and construction phases, design-build projects leverage interdisciplinary teams to optimize efficiency, minimize costs, and accelerate project delivery.
The Benefits of Design-Build Water Reuse
Enhanced Collaboration and Efficiency
Design-build projects foster collaboration between designers, engineers, contractors, and stakeholders from project inception to completion. By integrating diverse perspectives and expertise, these projects streamline decision-making processes, reduce project timelines, and enhance overall efficiency.
Customized Solutions and Innovation
Design-build approaches allow for flexibility and creativity in developing tailored water reuse solutions to meet specific project goals and site constraints. By fostering innovation and adaptive design principles, design-build projects can incorporate cutting-edge technologies and best practices to optimize system performance and maximize resource recovery.
Cost Savings and Risk Management
Design-build delivery methods offer potential cost savings by minimizing change orders, reducing project delays, and optimizing construction schedules. By bundling design and construction services under a single contract, design-build projects streamline project management and mitigate risks associated with coordination errors and communication breakdowns.
Strategies for Implementing Design-Build Water Reuse
Comprehensive Needs Assessment
Thorough site assessments and stakeholder engagement are essential for understanding project requirements, identifying water reuse opportunities, and defining project objectives. Conducting feasibility studies and risk assessments can help inform decision-making and guide the development of cost-effective and sustainable water reuse solutions.
Integrated Design and Planning
Integrating design and planning processes from the outset enables project teams to consider multiple factors, including site conditions, regulatory requirements, water quality objectives, and end-user needs. Adopting a holistic approach to design and planning facilitates the development of resilient and adaptable water reuse systems that optimize resource utilization and minimize environmental impacts.
Performance Monitoring and Optimization
Continuous monitoring and evaluation of water reuse systems are critical for ensuring operational efficiency, maintaining water quality standards, and identifying opportunities for optimization. Implementing robust monitoring protocols and data management systems enables project teams to track system performance, identify trends, and make informed decisions to enhance system reliability and effectiveness.
Conclusion: Shaping a Sustainable Water Future
Design-build water reuse projects represent a paradigm shift in water management, offering integrated solutions to address water scarcity, enhance resilience, and promote environmental sustainability. By leveraging interdisciplinary collaboration, innovative design principles, and adaptive management approaches, these projects have the potential to transform wastewater into a valuable resource for communities, industries, and ecosystems.
As we confront the challenges of a rapidly changing world, embracing design-build water reuse approaches is essential for creating resilient, resource-efficient water systems that meet the needs of present and future generations. Through strategic planning, stakeholder engagement, and a commitment to innovation, we can harness the power of design-build water reuse to build a more sustainable and water-secure future for all.
World Water Day
Water for peace
Water can create peace or spark conflict.
When water is scarce or polluted, or when people have unequal, or no access, tensions can rise between communities and countries.
More than 3 billion people worldwide depend on water that crosses national borders. Yet, only 24 countries have cooperation agreements for all their shared water.
As climate change impacts increase, and populations grow, there is an urgent need, within and between countries, to unite around protecting and conserving our most precious resource.
Public health and prosperity, food and energy systems, economic productivity and environmental integrity all rely on a well-functioning and equitably managed water cycle.
Creating a positive ripple effect
The theme of World Water Day 2024 is ‘Water for Peace’.
When we cooperate on water, we create a positive ripple effect – fostering harmony, generating prosperity and building resilience to shared challenges.
We must act upon the realization that water is not only a resource to be used and competed over – it is a human right, intrinsic to every aspect of life.
This World Water Day, we all need to unite around water and use water for peace, laying the foundations of a more stable and prosperous tomorrow.
Sustainable Solutions: Water Reuse on College Campuses
In the face of environmental challenges, the importance of sustainability has become increasingly evident. Among the myriad of issues, water scarcity stands out as a critical concern, prompting innovative solutions across various sectors. College campuses, as hubs of education and innovation, have a unique opportunity to lead by example in implementing sustainable practices. One such practice gaining traction is water reuse.
The Imperative of Water Reuse
Water scarcity is a pressing global issue exacerbated by factors like climate change, population growth, and inefficient water management. According to the United Nations, by 2025, an estimated 1.8 billion people will be living in regions with absolute water scarcity, with two-thirds of the world’s population potentially facing water-stressed conditions. In this context, finding sustainable ways to manage and conserve water resources is paramount.
College campuses, with their substantial water consumption due to academic, residential, and recreational activities, can significantly contribute to water conservation efforts. Implementing water reuse systems not only reduces water demand but also promotes a culture of environmental responsibility among students, faculty, and staff.
Strategies for Water Reuse
Greywater Recycling
Greywater, wastewater generated from activities like bathing, laundry, and dishwashing, can be treated and reused for non-potable purposes such as landscape irrigation, toilet flushing, and cooling systems. Installing greywater recycling systems on college campuses offers a practical way to minimize freshwater consumption for non-drinking purposes.
Rainwater Harvesting
Rainwater harvesting involves collecting and storing rainwater for later use. College campuses can utilize rainwater for landscaping, flushing toilets, and other non-potable applications. Implementing rainwater harvesting systems not only reduces reliance on municipal water sources but also mitigates stormwater runoff, which can help prevent pollution of local water bodies.
Onsite Wastewater Treatment
Onsite wastewater treatment facilities can treat sewage and wastewater generated on campus to a quality suitable for non-potable reuse. These systems utilize various treatment processes such as filtration, biological treatment, and disinfection to purify wastewater. By treating and reusing wastewater locally, colleges can reduce their environmental impact and decrease their dependence on centralized wastewater treatment facilities.
Benefits of Water Reuse on College Campuses
Environmental Sustainability
Implementing water reuse systems helps colleges reduce their environmental footprint by conserving precious freshwater resources and minimizing wastewater discharge into the environment. By adopting sustainable water management practices, campuses can contribute to the preservation of ecosystems and biodiversity.
Cost Savings
Water reuse initiatives can lead to significant cost savings for college campuses in the long run. By reducing water consumption and wastewater discharge, colleges can lower their utility bills and operational expenses. Additionally, investing in water reuse infrastructure may qualify campuses for government incentives or rebates, further enhancing financial benefits.
Educational Opportunities
Water reuse initiatives provide valuable learning opportunities for students across various disciplines, including environmental science, engineering, and sustainability studies. Incorporating water reuse projects into curricula allows students to gain practical experience and develop skills relevant to addressing real-world environmental challenges.
Conclusion
Water reuse presents a sustainable solution for college campuses to manage water resources efficiently and reduce their environmental impact. By implementing greywater recycling, rainwater harvesting, onsite wastewater treatment, and other water reuse strategies, campuses can promote environmental sustainability, achieve cost savings, and provide educational opportunities for students. As stewards of the future, colleges have a responsibility to lead by example and inspire positive change in water management practices. Through collective efforts, we can create a more sustainable and resilient future for generations to come.
Black Water Reuse: Pioneering Sustainable Solutions for a Water-Scarce World
In the quest for sustainable water management, innovative approaches are essential to address the pressing challenges of water scarcity and pollution. Among these approaches, black water reuse stands out as a pioneering solution with the potential to revolutionize how we manage wastewater. In this blog, we delve into the concept of black water reuse, its benefits, challenges, and its role in creating a more sustainable future.
Understanding Black Water Reuse
Black water refers to wastewater generated from toilets, kitchen sinks, and dishwashers, containing organic matter and pathogens. Traditionally, black water is treated in centralized wastewater treatment plants before being discharged into water bodies. However, this process consumes significant energy and resources, and the treated water is typically not reused due to concerns about its quality.
Black water reuse involves treating and purifying wastewater from toilets and other sources to a level suitable for non-potable applications such as landscape irrigation, toilet flushing, and industrial processes. Advanced treatment technologies, including membrane filtration, ultraviolet disinfection, and biological processes, are employed to remove contaminants and pathogens, producing high-quality reclaimed water.
Benefits of Black Water Reuse
Water Conservation
Black water reuse conserves freshwater resources by reducing the demand for potable water. Instead of using drinking water for non-potable purposes like irrigation and flushing toilets, reclaimed black water can fulfill these needs, alleviating pressure on strained water supplies.
Nutrient Recovery
Black water contains valuable nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus, which can be recovered and reused as fertilizer in agriculture or landscaping. By capturing and recycling these nutrients, black water reuse closes the loop in nutrient management, reducing reliance on synthetic fertilizers and minimizing nutrient pollution in water bodies.
Energy Savings
Traditional wastewater treatment consumes significant energy for pumping, aeration, and treatment processes. By decentralizing treatment through on-site or community-scale black water reuse systems, energy consumption can be reduced, leading to lower carbon emissions and operational costs.
Challenges and Considerations
Regulatory Framework
Implementing black water reuse systems requires navigating complex regulatory frameworks governing water quality and reuse. Regulatory agencies may have stringent requirements for water treatment and quality standards, posing challenges for widespread adoption of black water reuse technologies.
Public Perception
Overcoming public perception and acceptance barriers is crucial for the success of black water reuse initiatives. Despite technological advancements ensuring the safety and quality of reclaimed water, concerns about health risks and stigma associated with wastewater reuse persist among stakeholders.
Infrastructure and Investment
Deploying black water reuse infrastructure entails significant upfront investment in treatment technologies, distribution systems, and monitoring equipment. Securing funding and garnering support from stakeholders, including government agencies, utilities, and communities, is essential to overcome financial barriers and scale up adoption.
Conclusion: Embracing Innovation for a Sustainable Future
Black water reuse represents a paradigm shift in wastewater management, offering a sustainable alternative to conventional treatment and disposal practices. By harnessing advanced technologies and fostering collaboration among policymakers, industry stakeholders, and the public, we can overcome challenges and realize the full potential of black water reuse to conserve water, recover valuable resources, and mitigate environmental impacts.
As we confront the urgent challenges of water scarcity and pollution, embracing innovation and adopting holistic approaches to water management are imperative. Black water reuse exemplifies the transformative power of technology and collaboration in shaping a more sustainable and resilient future for generations to come. Let us seize the opportunity to harness the potential of black water reuse and pave the way towards a water-secure world.
Navigating the Waves of Change: Recent Water Regulation Updates in the United States
In the realm of environmental stewardship, water regulation plays a pivotal role in safeguarding precious water resources and ensuring public health. Over time, these regulations evolve in response to scientific advancements, changing societal needs, and emerging environmental challenges. In this blog, we explore recent water regulation changes in the United States, highlighting key developments and their implications for water management and conservation efforts nationwide.
The Clean Water Act: A Foundation for Environmental Protection
Enacted in 1972, the Clean Water Act (CWA) serves as a cornerstone of water quality regulation in the United States. The CWA aims to restore and maintain the chemical, physical, and biological integrity of the nation’s waters by regulating pollutant discharges into navigable waters and establishing water quality standards. Under the CWA, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) sets regulatory guidelines and collaborates with state and tribal governments to enforce water quality standards and implement pollution control programs.
Recent Regulatory Updates and Initiatives
Waters of the United States (WOTUS) Rule
One of the most significant recent developments in water regulation is the revision of the Waters of the United States (WOTUS) rule. The WOTUS rule, originally promulgated in 2015, defines the scope of waters protected under the Clean Water Act. In 2020, the EPA and the Army Corps of Engineers repealed and replaced the 2015 WOTUS rule with the Navigable Waters Protection Rule (NWPR). The NWPR narrows the definition of federally regulated waters, reducing federal oversight over certain ephemeral streams, wetlands, and other water bodies. Proponents argue that the NWPR provides regulatory certainty and reduces federal overreach, while critics express concerns about potential impacts on water quality and habitat protection.
Lead and Copper Rule Revisions
In December 2020, the EPA finalized revisions to the Lead and Copper Rule (LCR), which governs drinking water quality standards and lead contamination in drinking water systems. The updated LCR strengthens testing and reporting requirements, enhances corrosion control measures, and expands public notification and transparency provisions. The revisions aim to improve public health protections and reduce exposure to lead in drinking water, particularly in vulnerable communities disproportionately affected by lead contamination.
PFAS Regulation
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a group of synthetic chemicals widely used in industrial and consumer products, known for their persistence and potential adverse health effects. Recognizing the growing concern over PFAS contamination, the EPA has initiated regulatory actions to address PFAS pollution in drinking water and the environment. Efforts include monitoring and testing programs, research initiatives, and the development of regulatory standards for PFAS in drinking water and wastewater discharges.
Implications and Future Directions
Recent water regulation changes in the United States reflect ongoing efforts to adapt to evolving environmental and public health challenges. While these updates represent progress towards enhancing water quality and protection, they also raise questions and debates about regulatory effectiveness, stakeholder engagement, and equitable implementation.
As we navigate the waves of change in water regulation, collaboration among government agencies, stakeholders, and communities is essential to address complex water management issues effectively. By fostering dialogue, innovation, and collective action, we can strive towards a future where clean, safe, and accessible water is a fundamental right for all.
In conclusion, staying informed about recent water regulation changes and actively engaging in water policy discussions empowers individuals and communities to contribute to sustainable water management and environmental conservation efforts. Together, we can chart a course towards a more resilient and water-secure future for generations to come.