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Before COVID19, Iowa's drinking water and wastewater operators took proctored, standardized certification exams either at DMACC Southridge Computer Lab or by appointment at one of the Iowa DNR Regional Field Offices. Due to the ambiguity of when these venues will again be open to the public, Iowa is offering "remote proctoring". On November 20th, an operator will be able to take their drinking water or wastewater certification exam on any computer that has a camera and microphone.
Once they log in on the link provided by the testing company via email, their browser is frozen; a proctor can see them through the camera; their surroundings are monitored for extra materials or cheating; and the test session is recorded for future reference if there are any cheating suspicions or accusations. The testing company will provide a YouTube Video and live customer support for any technical issues arising during a "remote" session. Once we are up and running, all of our backlogged exams could be cleaned up pretty quickly, potentially within a couple of days, and if we have to shelter in place again down the road there will be no interruption in examination services.
Post Covid19, our operators will have two options for exam delivery: "remote proctoring" and our traditional method of on-line at an Iowa DNR Field Office or Community College computer lab.
How do operators get signed up for a remotely proctored exam?
To register to take your exam remotely, email the following information to this address: ExamRemoteProctoringRegistrationOpCert@dnr.iowa.gov:
- Name
- Operator ID#
- Exam Category and Grade you have already received Iowa DNR approval to sit for. Remember: you must have been issued an IDNR Eligibility Letter prior to registering to take a remote exam.
You will receive an automatic reply from the Iowa DNR confirming our receipt of your request.
Next Step: Keep an eye out for an email from the proctoring service: PSI Customer Service <schedule@goamp.com> This email will include the following:
- Detailed instructions for exam scheduling and procedure;
- A link for the scheduling and rescheduling of your unique exam(s). You will have complete control over this. Remote Proctoring is offered twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week;
- A tutorial video; and,
- An 800 customer service number you can call anytime, 24/7, with any questions concerning the Remote Proctoring process or for any technical assistance.
Please direct any questions to the IDNR Operator Certification Program at Elizabeth.Feilmeier@dnr.iowa.gov or Laurie.Sharp@dnr.iowa.gov or (515) 725-0463.
The final rule that codifies the Reduction of Lead in Drinking Water Act was published in the September 1, 2020, Federal Register. The law change happened in 2011, and became effective in 2014. These regulations include those provisions in the Code of Federal Regulations. The changes pertain to the amount of allowable lead in drinking water plumbing and fixtures. The rule, titled “Use of Lead Free Pipes, Fittings, Fixtures, Solder, and Flux for Drinking Water,” is 25 pages, .pdf.
From Wichita State University Environmental Finance Center, 9/1/2020. The EFC is sponsored by EPA, and this training is for Iowa systems.
Description: In this free two-part online training series, you will learn about how asset management can benefit your system. Not sure where to begin? We will provide you with the tools you need to get started and will walk you through the process.
With limited revenues, aging infrastructure, and regulatory obligations to meet, a comprehensive approach to managing your system is vital. You may have problems related to unknown meter, valve, or hydrant locations. You may not be sure of which asset(s) to replace given limited funds. Asset Management can help you solve these problems, and more.
Part One: Introduction to Asset Management
- Identify the 5 core components of asset management
- Develop an inventory of utility components
- Identify critical assets for sustained operations
- Set goals for level of service at a sustainable cost
Part Two: Optimizing Asset Life for Sustained Operations
- Make decisions about how to operate, maintain, repair, and replace critical assets
- Identify long-term funding strategies for your system
- Evaluate energy efficiency of assets
Dates:
Wednesday, September 30, 2020: Part One: “Introduction to Asset Management”
Thursday, October 1, 2020: Part Two: “Optimizing Asset Life for Sustained Operations”
Time: 11:00am-12:30pm CDT
Register Online
Fee: No charge for this two-part webinar
CEU: Approved for 3 hours of water operator credit by Iowa DNR
EPA’s fifth American Iron & Steel webinar will cover Project and Product-Specific Waivers. There will be a 15 minute presentation followed by a question and answer session. Please see the attached webinar flyer for more information and the registration link.
Date: September 30, 2020
Time: 1:00 – 1:30 p.m. CDT
Registration
Fee: no charge
To find continuing education opportunities, please view the “Training Calendar” at programs.iowadnr.gov/opcertweb/ Training events where Iowa DNR staff will make presentations are listed below. See the listing on the appropriate date on the Training Calendar for registration instructions. Look at the calendar often, as there are new opportunities posted throughout the week.
- September 28-29, 2020, IRWA Fall Water Conference, Okoboji. “IDNR Water Supply Rules Update.” See the website for the brochure and registration information; website indicates registration is full.
- October 8, 2020, IA-AWWA Region 2 Water and Wastewater Operator Conference, Mason City. “IDNR WS Rules Update.” Registration and agenda to be available soon.
- October 13-15, 2020, IA-AWWA Virtual Fall Conference, “Iowa DNR Water Supply Rules Update.” See the website for the brochure and registration information. This year’s conference is free.
- October 26-27, IRWA Fall Water Conference, Dubuque. “IDNR Water Supply Rules Update.” See the website for the brochure and registration information; this registration may also be full.
The Iowa Department of Natural Resources is working with state and local officials to reduce the spread of COVID-19 and has transitioned employees to work remotely. DNR offices are closed to the public during this time and only available by appointment.
In another effort to further reduce the spread of COVID-19, the DNR is encouraging the use of the online services for submitting applications, payments and other daily tasks and interaction with DNR staff.
We thank you for your patience and flexibility during this time. If you need to contact DNR staff you can reach them by email or phone or by calling 515-725-8200.
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