January 2006

The Environmental & Water Resources Institute (EWRI) Nominations and Elections Committee (NEC) is still accepting nominations for candidates for the 2006-2007 EWRI Governing Board Office of Vice President. The EWRI 2006-2007 Vice President will have a three-year* tenure on the Governing Board commencing on October 1, 2006.

To nominate individuals for consideration by the NEC to become official EWRI candidates for the 2006-2007 office of EWRI Vice President, please contact EWRI staff member Autumn Richter and request a Nomination Packet or download at

http://www.ewrinstitute.org/committees/govern_nominationspacket.cfm. Be certain to provide your mailing and e-mail address and telephone number.

You may contact Autumn Richter at (703) 295-6063, or fax her at (703) 295-6371, or e-mail her at arichter@asce.org or write her at EWRI of ASCE, Attention: Autumn Richter, EWRI NEC 2005, 1801 Alexander Bell Drive, Reston, VA 20191-4400.

All mailed nomination packets must be postmarked by February 8, 2006. All completed information must be received by EWRI by February 22, 2006.

* Pending approval of the ASCE Board of Direction, the EWRI 2006-2007 Vice President will serve a four-year term (10/1/06 - 9/30/10). If the four-year term is approved, on October 1, 2009 the EWRI 2006-2007 Vice President will become the EWRI Past-President. If not approved, the Vice President's final term will be as President (term ending on 9/30/09).

Technical Region Director’s Report

All members of the ASCE Board of Direction are expected to communicate effectively with the constituents in their respective regions. The Technical Region is a worldwide, virtual region comprised of ASCE’s seven Institutes. This report is the second in a series of brief summaries intended to keep you informed of news from the ASCE Board of Direction. Communication is a two-way process. Please do not hesitate to contact me at any time with your questions and concerns. I would especially appreciate receiving any thoughts that you might have on how ASCE and its Technical Region can better serve you.

2006 ASCE Election

The election process for the second Technical Region Director has commenced. Five Institutes nominated outstanding candidates for this position in December 2005. The Technical Region Nominating Committee met in Tempe, Arizona on January 14, 2006 to interview these individuals and select the official Technical Region Director Nominee(s). The result of the voting at this meeting is that there will once again be two Official Nominees. They are Max Porter of SEI and Tom Rachford of EWRI. You will undoubtedly receive more information on both of these outstanding civil engineers in the coming months, as they prepare for this nationally contested election.

Voting will take place between June 15 and August 15, 2006. Only those individuals who are members in good standing of at least one Institute on May 15, 2006 can vote. If you know any of the 48,000 ASCE members who have not yet joined an Institute, please encourage them to do so now. Explain to them that, like many of the best things in life, membership in an Institute is free!

Finally, please remember that this election is a contest between two individuals. It is not a contest between two Institutes. ASCE’s Technical Region Directors must equitably represent all seven Institutes.

January 2006 Board Meeting

The Civil Engineering Research Foundation (CERF) has been a subject of much study and debate for the past two years. On October 26, 2005, the ASCE Board of Direction assigned three Directors (Stan Caldwell, Tony Reid, and Mark Woodson) to work with the Task Committee on CERF Reengineering. Those Directors published their Final Report on December 15, 2005. One day later, the Final Report was unanimously endorsed by the CERF Board of Directors and forwarded to the ASCE Board of Direction. The ASCE Board of Direction held a special meeting on January 4, 2006, for the primary purpose of resolving the future of CERF. At that meeting, a motion was approved to accept and implement the five specific recommendations in the Final Report:

Dissolve the Civil Engineering Research Foundation (CERF) and the CERF Advisory Board, and establish an Industry Leaders Council (ILC) consistent with the terms and conditions described in the Final Report.

Rename the existing CERF 501(c)(3) corporate entity as the Industry Leaders Council with a new ILC Board. New governing documents consistent with the recommendations in the Final Report shall be submitted for approval by the ASCE Board of Direction as soon as practical.

Take steps to close, complete, or transfer to ASCE, all existing CERF grants, contracts, and projects as soon as practical. The ASCE Board of Direction needs to recognize that there might be some additional expenses incurred in closing current grants and contracts and cleaning up CERF’s books.

Establish a Task Committee to develop the governing documents and the operating procedures for ILC. The ASCE President shall appoint at least one District or Region Director to this committee to serve in an ex-officio capacity.

Incorporate the ILC activities into the strategic planning process.

Contact your Institute Director at ASCE Headquarters if you would like an electronic copy of the Final Report. ASCE President Dennis Martenson recently appointed Bob Costigan to the Task Committee on ILC. He will do an excellent job of representing the Institutes as the details of ILC are developed. If you have any specific suggestions on this matter after studying the Final Report, please send them by email to BCostigan@aztec.us.

Announcing Student Competitions for the 2006 EWRI Congress

There are three competitions geared towards students for EWRI’s 2006 World Environmental & Water Resources Congress to be held in Omaha, Nebraska May 21-26, 2006. These include a student technical paper competition for both undergraduates and graduates, a student photo competition as well as the Parsons Brinckerhoff Student Design Competition. For student competition

details, please visit http://www.ewrinstitute.org/committees/techpapercomp.cfm.

Sustainable Development Track at 2006 EWRI Congress

Don't miss the Sustainable Development track at the EWRI Congress in May 2006. Join us for some sessions that not only inform, but actively engage the audience in dialogue about the future of sustainable water pollution engineering.

>> For more information, contact Helene Hilger.

American Academy of Water Resources Engineers aawre (AAWRE) - Call for Applications

The American Academy of Water Resources Engineers (AAWRE) is currently accepting online applications for the Diplomate, Specialty Certification program. The deadline for the current cycle of applications to be reviewed in Spring 2006 is February 28, 2006.

The Academy and the Diplomate, Specialty Certification program was founded in October 2004 by practicing water resources professionals who are members of the American Society of Civil Engineers' Environmental and Water Resources Institute (EWRI ). AAWRE is dedicated to improving the practice, elevating the standards, and advancing the profession of water resources engineering. The Diplomate, Specialty Certification program was started in October 2004 as a voluntary, post-licensure credential program for water resources engineers that wish to adhere to the goals of the Academy and be recognized for their service and dedication in the field of water resources engineering. AAWRE goals and objectives are:

a. Identifying and certifying engineers with specialized knowledge in

water resources for the benefit of the public.

b. Recognizing the ethical practice of water resources engineering at

the expert level.

c. Enhancing the practice of water resources engineering.

d. Supporting and promoting positions on water resources issues

important to the public health, safety and welfare.

e. Encouraging life-long learning and continued professional

development.

In its inaugural year of the program, 132 individuals have qualified for the Diplomate, Water Resources Engineer credential presently.

There are requirements to apply for the Diplomate, Specialty Certification program. To read the list of the requirements: http://www.aawre.org/requirements.cfm

For more information on the application process: http://www.aawre.org/appaawre.cfm

Apply today and show your peers that you advocate the improvement of the practices of water resources engineering, seek to elevate the standards, and wish to advance the profession of water resources engineering.

Get the Recognition you deserve. Validate your knowledge and expertise with AAWRE certification today!

Complete online applications and fees must be received by 5 pm EST - February 28, 2006.

All new Diplomates will be recognized and honored at a special reception on May 22, 2006 at the EWRI's 2006 World Environmental & Water Resources Congress in Omaha, Nebraska! For more information on the 2006 EWRI World Environmental & Water Resources Congress: http://www.asce.org/conferences/ewri2006/

If you have any questions regarding the Diplomate, Specialty Certification program, please contact Frank Kim at (703) 295-6160 or by email at fkim@aawre.org.

EPA

NEWS

New Draft Watershed Handbook Released and Webcast Planned

New Draft Watershed Handbook released a draft guide to watershed management to help various organizations develop and implement watershed plans is now available. The "Draft Handbook for Developing Watershed Plans to Restore and Protect Our Waters" is aimed toward communities, watershed groups, and local, state, tribal, and federal environmental agencies. This handbook contains in-depth guidance on quantifying existing pollutant loads, developing estimates of the load reductions required to meet water quality standards, developing effective management measures, and tracking progress once the plan is implemented. EPA will be accepting comments and suggestions on the document in the coming year to incorporate in the final version of the handbook. The handbook is available at: http://www.epa.gov/owow/nps/watershed_handbook/

EPA's Watershed Academy sponsors monthly Webcasts. The next Webcast, scheduled for Wed., Jan. 18, 2006, will feature EPA's new draft watershed handbook. Registration for the Webcast will be available on a first-come/first-served basis and will open by Wed., Jan. 11, 2006. Each Webcast includes a Web-based slide presentation with a companion audio portion that can be accessed either by phone or by streaming audio broadcast. For more

information visit: http://www.epa.gov/owow/watershed/wacademy/webcasts/

Storm Water Rule Proposed to Comply with Energy Policy Act

Storm Water Rule Proposed to Comply with Energy Policy Act Revisions are being proposed to storm water regulations under the Clean Water Act to advance the comprehensive energy policy recently enacted by Congress. The proposed action, required by the Energy Policy Act of 2005, would modify National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System regulations to clarify that uncontaminated storm water discharges from oil and gas field activities do not require federal Clean Water Act permits. This action also encourages voluntary application of best-management practices for oil and gas field construction activities to minimize erosion and control sediment. The proposed rule will be available for public comment for 45 days after publication in the Federal Register. For further information, including a copy of the proposed rule, visit: www.epa.gov/npdes/stormwater/oilgas

$18 Million Targeted for Water Quality Monitoring

The Agency plans to use $18 million in FY 2006 for the water quality monitoring initiative. These funds supplement an existing allocation of approximately $200 million annually to support state, interstate agency, and tribal programs to combat water pollution. The agency is changing the way it allocates funds under the water pollution control grant program (known as Section 106 of the Clean Water Act). Under the revised process, EPA will be better able to target these additional funds to help carry out priority areas that include monitoring for pollutants. The process requires the agency to consult with states and interstate agencies prior to finalizing the allocation formula. This action was taken in response to the President's FY 2006 budget calling for an increase in funding of water-quality monitoring nationwide. For further information about the changes in the allotment formula, visit: http://www.epa.gov/owm/cwfinance/altformula-fy06.htm. For general information about water pollution control program grants, visit: http://www.epa.gov/owm/cwfinance/pollutioncontrol.htm

EPA 2006 P3 Grant Competition Now Open

EPA’s 2006 competition for the P3 Phase I Awards is now open! Up to 50 awards for a maximum of $10,000 each will be made to student teams in the autumn of 2006. In spring 2007, teams will be invited to bring their designs to Washington, D.C. to compete for the 3rd Annual P3 Award.

WHAT IS P3?

EPA and its partners launched the P3 Award in 2003 to promote innovative thinking for moving the world toward sustainability. Through this national student design competition, college students gain new skills and knowledge as they research, develop, design, and implement scientific and technical solutions to environmental challenges.

WHAT IS THE P3 AWARD COMPETITION?

The competition has two phases. Initially, student teams compete for $10,000 grants. Recipients use the money to research and develop their design projects during the academic year. Then, in the following spring, all P3 grant recipients are invited to Washington, D.C. to compete for the P3 Award. TheNational Academies, advisors to the nation on science, engineering, and medicine, convene a panel to evaluate and recommend the award winners. The final award decisions are made by EPA.

WHAT IS THE P3 AWARD?

The P3 Award is given to the highest-rated student designs. The award includes additional funding up to $75,000 that gives the students an opportunity to further develop their designs for sustainability, implement their projects in the field, and move them to the marketplace.

>> APPLY TODAY!

>> Phase 1 P3 Grants Eligibility

>> Guidance and FAQ

>> Questions? Contact Julie Zimmerman, U.S. EPA, Office of Research and Development, Washington, DC; Telephone: 202-343-9689; Fax: 202-233-0678; or visit the P3 Web site at www.epa.gov/P3.

COMMITTEE NEWS

Council Weekend 2006

EWRI’s 4th Annual Council Weekend has been scheduled for February 25-26, 2005 in Dallas, Texas. If you received an invitation and have not RSVPed, please do so immediately as the deadline has passed. Full details will follow, to confirmed attendees, mid January. If you have not made hotel reservations, please do so by February 3, 2006.

>> Questions? Contact Autumn Richter.

PUBLICATIONS

Ordering Information: Visit http://www.pubs.asce.org or call 1-800-548-2723 (U.S.) / 1-703-295-6300 (Int’l.) / 1-703-295-6278 (Fax)

Standard Guidelines for the Design, Installation, Maintenance, and Operation of Urban Stormwater Systems, ASCE/EWRI 45-, 46-, 47-05

To be released late January - Order your copies today

ASCE/EWRI 45-05 provides guidelines for the design of urban stormwater systems, covering topics such as site analysis, system configuration, hydrology, hydraulic design, nonstructural considerations, structural design, and materials. ASCE/EWRI 46-05 presents guidelines for the installation of urban stormwater systems and discusses subjects such as contract documents, preconstruction site inspection, construction, and inspection. ASCE/EWRI 47-05 provides guidelines for the operation and maintenance of urban stormwater systems, topics include: operation and maintenance plans, water quality, periodic inspection, and maintenance. The Standards in this volume were developed by the Urban Drainage Standards Committee, which is esponsible to the Environmental and Water Resources Institute (EWRI) of ASCE. These standards are intended to compliment design procedures of the ASCE Manuals and Reports on Engineering Practice No. 77, Design and Construction of Urban Stormwater Management Systems.

BNR

Biological Nutrient Removal (BNR) Operation in Wastewater Treatment Plants

BNR is a fast-growing method of removing biological pollutants (bacteria, etc.) from wastewater. Experts from both the Water Environment Federation and the American Society of Civil Engineers have collaborated on this definitive work which is intended to be a practical manual for plant managers and operators who needed current information on BNR.

CALL FOR PAPERS

The organizing committees for the upcoming conference is currently seeking abstract submissions.

2006 International Conference

December 18-20, 2006

New Delhi, India

Abstracts due: March 20, 2006

Visit the conference website at http://www.asce.org/conferences/india06

for more information.

Conference Highlights

IAHR International Symposium on Hydraulic Structures, Ciudad Guayana, Venzuela

Here are the latest Updates for XXII Congress of the Latin American Division of IAHR (XXII LAD IAHR Congress) & International Symposium on Hydraulic Structures (ISHS) (English) :

Abstract submission deadline for ISHS (English) is extended to January 31, 2006. This extension will offer opportunities for new paper submission.
Submit your abstracts Now! to ISHS: symposium-iahr@edelca.com.ve
Full papers & extended abstracts deadline for XXII LAD IAHR Congress is April 15, 2006!
Submit your full papers & extended abstracts as soon as possible to XXII LAD IAHR Congress: congreso-iahr@edelca.com.ve
Invitation to Sponsor & Call for Exhibition at XXII LAD IAHR Congress & ISHS. Send e-mail to: congreso-iahr@edelca.com.ve or symposium-iahr@edelca.com.ve

Announcing IECA Annual Conference

The International Erosion Control Association (IECA) will be hosting its annual conference in Long Beach, CA February 20-24, 2006. This conference and expo will take place at the Long Beach Convention Center. More than 2000 attendees are expected to attend from all over the world to learn the latest in Best Management Practices, restoration techniques, and managing environmental risks. Over 150 exhibitors will be on hand to demonstrate the latest products and equipment designed to help keep our soil in place and our water clean. Two days of training courses will increase your knowledge on topics such as streambank stabilization, BMP installation and NPDES rules and regulations.

For more information and to register for EC06, visit IECA’s website at www.ieca.org.

CONFERENCES

EC06, IECA's Annual Conference and Expo*

February 20-24, 2006, Long Beach, CA

http://www.ieca.org/Conference/Annual/LongBeach06.asp

Joint 8th Federal Interagency Sedimentation and 3rd Hydrologic Modeling Conferences*
April 2-6, 2006, Reno, NV
http://water.usgs.gov/wicp/acwi/hydrology/mtsconfwkshops/ann-4-2-2006.html

2006 World Water & Environmental Resources Congress (EWRI Event)

May21-25, 2006, Omaha, NE

http://www.asce.org/conferences/ewri2006/

2006 Operations Management Conference (EWRI Event)
August 14-16, 2006, Sacramento, California
http://www.asce.org/conferences/om06/

7th International Conference on HydroScience & Engineering*
September 10-13, 2006, Philadelphia, PA

http://thor.cae.drexel.edu/ICHE2006/

2006 India Conference (EWRI Event)
December 18-20, 2006, New Delhi, India

http://www.asce.org/conferences/india06/

Symposium on Managed Aquifer Recharge*

October 28 - November 2, 2007, Phoenix, AZ

Additional information may be obtained by contacting the Symposium Co-Chairman Doug Bartlett.

* EWRI Co-sponsored Events

CONTINUING EDUCATION WORKSHOPS & SEMINARS

Wetlands and 404 Permitting
Feb. 6 - 7, 2006
Orlando, FL
http://www.asce.org/conted/seminars/seminar.cfm?cat=2#abc35abc

Enhancing Riparian Restoration Projects to Provide Improved Physical and Ecological Functions - New Seminar!
Feb. 9 - 10, 2006
Charleston, SC
http://www.asce.org/conted/seminars/seminar.cfm?cat=4#abc291abc

HEC-RAS Computer Workshop
Feb. 15 - 17, 2006
Baton Rouge, LA
http://www.asce.org/conted/seminars/seminar.cfm?cat=4#abc113abc

Water Hammer in Transmission and Distribution Systems
Feb 16 - 17, 2006
Las Vegas, NV
http://www.asce.org/conted/seminars/seminar.cfm?cat=4#abc124abc

Advanced Detention Routing: Improving the Operation and Effectiveness of Detention Facilities - New Seminar!
Feb 23 - 24, 2006
Portland, OR
http://www.asce.org/conted/seminars/seminar.cfm?cat=4#abc290abc

GIS Applications in Water, Wastewater, and Stormwater Systems
Feb 23 - 24, 2006
San Francisco, CA
http://www.asce.org/conted/seminars/seminar.cfm?cat=2#abc111abc

HEC-HMS Computer Workshop
Feb 23 - 24, 2006
Honolulu, HI
http://www.asce.org/conted/seminars/seminar.cfm?cat=4#abc112abc

Pumping Systems Design for Civil Engineers
Feb. 23 - 24, 2006
Raleigh, NC
http://www.asce.org/conted/seminars/seminar.cfm?cat=4#abc121abc

SPREAD THE WORD

Please forward this message to your friends and colleagues who share an interest in environmental and water-related issues and would like to hear from the Environmental and Water Resources Institute of the American Society of Civil Engineers. Encourage your friends and colleagues to JOIN EWRI and receive all the benefits of being and EWRI Member.

This e-mail was addressed to the email address bparsons@asce.org as a member of the American Society of Civil Engineers Environmental & Water Resources Institute. To update your profile, please visit http://www.asce.org/myprofile