Summer
2001
A District-wide Effort to Correct Infiltration and Inflow
Problems Helps Reduce Costs and Protect the Environment
No Rate Increase for the 7th Year in a Row
OVSD Reaches Out to the Community
New Director Named
Three New Employees Welcomed
Free Biosolids
Considering a Septic System Conversion?
A
District-wide Effort to Correct
Infiltration and Inflow Problems Helps Reduce Costs and Protect the Environment
The Ojai Valley Sanitary District is engaged in efforts to correct the problem of Infiltration and Inflow (I & I). I & I are ways in which too much rainwater gets into the sanitary sewer. When rainwater leaks into buried sewer pipes, it’s called infiltration, and when rainwater flows directly into open sewer connections, it’s called inflow. I & I can cause plant upsets and releases of partially treated wastewater.
I & I can come from a variety of sources: downspouts or other drainage lines hooked up to the sewage lines; leaking sewage lines that allow water to enter the system when the ground is saturated or flooded; pipe breakage from tree roots; or, illegal connections to the sewage lines. Although each of these conditions may only allow a few gallons into the system during dry weather conditions, they can really add up during storm conditions, and the large volume of water can overwhelm our treatment facility. When our treatment facility is overwhelmed, as it was during the storms last March, the result is significantly higher treatment and regulatory costs. Also, the Ventura River environment is put at risk.
Currently, the OVSD has skilled crews blanketing the Valley with in-pipe cables, cameras, and videotape, in a first-phase effort to correct this condition. These teams of workers will perform comprehensive surveys of the OVSD’s entire sewage system so that problem areas may be identified and repaired. After the initial repairs are made, the OVSD will move into the second phase of our efforts, which will include smoke testing. Smoke testing is another effective way of identifying leaks in the system, and is most effective during the dry weather months when the water table is at its lowest point. Once these additional leaks are found and repaired, I & I will be greatly reduced. Reduction of rainwater intrusion into our system will reduce future spills, lower costs, and protect our environment.
No Rate Increase for the 7th Year in a Row
Even with the anticipation of higher energy costs, the OVSD has adopted an annual budget without a rate increase to its customers. Instead, the District decided to adjust budget-related activities in other areas, so as to avoid a rate increase.
The District’s management team in preparing this budget followed several guidelines, which included efforts to achieve long-term rate stability, the continuation of routine and predictable treatment plant operations, and to pursue energy conservation measures. General Manager, John Correa, says he believes that “the programs used in this budget will allow the District to achieve its goals for the 2001-2002 fiscal year.”
OVSD Reaches Out to the Community
Do you find high technology, state-of-the-art equipment and compost interesting? If so, you should schedule a tour of the District’s award-winning treatment plant. Located just north of Ventura, along side the Ventura River, the plant offers group tours to schools and community organizations. Highlights of the tour include seeing the latest and greatest in ultraviolet disinfecting processes; the control room computers, which monitor the plant’s activities 24 hours a day; and the giant composting beds, which provide residents with free compost for their gardens. Sound interesting? You can call the plant directly to schedule your tour at 648-5066.
If you aren’t able to visit the plant in the near future, you can watch for the OVSD at upcoming local events as well. We’ll have our booth set up at Ojai Day, just like we were this past April for Earth Day (pictured left).
Director Kaiser was elected to the Board in November 2000. Pete has a Master’s Degree in Urban and Regional Planning with an emphasis in Environmental Issues. He has worked for the County of Ventura since 1990 where he oversees Hazardous and Solid Waste management programs countywide. Currently, Director Kaiser is attending the Special District’s Institute to further his skills in board administration, finances, and special districts. Pete and his family have lived in the Ojai Valley since 1991 where Pete is actively involved in the community serving on the Municipal Advisory Council and Ojai Lions Club, coaching Oak View Little League, and officiating youth and high school football. With considerable experience in waste matters, Pete brings his knowledge of fiscal and environmental responsibility to the Board for the public he represents.
The District welcomes three new employees this year. Renee Bromser started as a temporary employee in February of 2000 and was hired full time on August 28, 2000. Renee is an Ojai resident who loves gardening and travelling with her 10-year-old daughter, Chloe Rose. Renee says she loves coming to work everyday, and especially likes the contact she has with OVSD customers.
Justin Allen came on board as a Collection Systems Operator in January of 2001. He likes being out in the field and learning new aspects of his job everyday. Justin lives in Santa Paula, and became a newlywed last November.
Supervising Operator, Charlie Grace, started with the District on August 14, 2000. He oversees the operation and maintenance of the plant, as well as scheduling. Charlie came to the District with 7 years experience in the field and enjoys the ability to make process adjustments and decisions. He lives in Moorpark with his wife and 3 sons.
Composted biosolids are currently available to the public for unrestriced use as a soil amendment at no cost.
Pick up a bag full, or a truckload at the District's Wastewater Treatment Plant located at 6363 N. Ventura Avenue, while supplies last.
Call (805) 648-5066 between the hours of 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. to ensure compost availablitly.
Is your septic system experiencing these problems of aging?
- Constant maintenance and inspections
- Expensive Upgrades
- Surface drainage
- Degradation of ground water
The Ojai Valley Sanitary District has Financing available for Septic System Conversions at one point above the prime rate. For information call: 646-5548
Mission
Statement | About | Board
of Directors | Services | Newsletter | District
Divisions
Treatment Plant | Agenda & Minutes | Budget | Rates | Contact
Us | Links | Home