In a recent continuation of their discussion, Chris Work and Jeff Givens from Profit Dig sat down again with Scott Miller, the General Manager of Operations at the Water Authority of Dickson County. They were joined by Jeff Spencer, a construction expert, and Jerry Work. This follow-up conversation delves deeper into the rapid growth, infrastructure, and technical challenges faced by county water systems, building on the insights from their previous discussion.
Growth in Dickson County
The discussion opened with an exploration of the growth rate in Dickson County. Scott Miller highlighted the significant expansion over recent years, noting that the water authority has been adding between 200 and 400 new services each month. This rapid growth is a testament to the region’s booming development, with a considerable increase in both residential and commercial connections.
“Last year, there were times when we would make over 50 water taps in a month’s time,” Scott shared. This growth, fueled by low interest rates and increasing population, has significantly expanded the customer base from less than 18,000 in 2015 to over 22,000 today.
Infrastructure and Capacity
With such rapid growth, maintaining robust infrastructure is crucial. Scott explained that Dickson County’s water infrastructure is in good shape, thanks in part to forward-thinking planning and investment. The Cumberland River withdrawal permit allows for a substantial water intake, ensuring that the current demand can be met without immediate upgrades.
The Water Authority has a capacity of about 11.5 million gallons per day, with an average usage of around 6 million gallons per day. This includes peaks that occasionally reach above 8 million gallons. The infrastructure, including pump stations and water treatment facilities, is designed to handle this demand efficiently. However, wastewater discharge presents more challenges due to stringent nutrient and discharge limits, necessitating future upgrades to meet regulatory requirements.
Technical Challenges and Solutions
Scott also discussed the technical aspects of managing water pressure within the distribution system. The state mandates a minimum pressure of 20 PSI, but ensuring consistent pressure across varied terrains can be complex. High-pressure areas may require pressure reduction valves to avoid damage to infrastructure and customer properties.
“To ensure every home meets the required pressure, we balance the system using elevated tanks, ground storage tanks, and pressure-reducing valves,” Scott explained. These measures help maintain stable water pressure and flow rates, crucial for both daily use and fire protection.
Wastewater Management and Future Planning
The conversation also touched on wastewater management, a critical aspect of the Water Authority’s operations. Scott noted that while the current system meets regulatory requirements, future growth will necessitate significant upgrades. One potential solution discussed was selling treated wastewater for irrigation purposes, though the seasonal demand and infrastructure costs present challenges.
Permit Process and Environmental Impact
Obtaining permits for water withdrawal and wastewater discharge involves rigorous processes, including stream studies and sampling data collection. The Tennessee Department of Environmental Conservation (TDEC) oversees these permits, ensuring that water utilities operate sustainably and minimize environmental impact.
Conclusion
Scott Miller’s insights provide a detailed look at the complexities and challenges of managing a growing county water system. From ensuring reliable water supply and pressure to planning for future wastewater management needs, the Water Authority of Dickson County is committed to maintaining high standards and meeting the demands of its expanding customer base.
This follow-up conversation underscores the importance of strategic planning and investment in infrastructure to support sustainable growth and environmental stewardship. For those interested in learning more about the technical and regulatory aspects of water management, resources like the Tennessee Association of Utility Districts (TAUD), the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and the American Water Works Association (AWWA) offer valuable information and support.