What happens when a mechanical engineering grad steps into the world of wastewater treatment? Travis Pitts is Superintendent at the Sewer District's Westerly Wastewater Treatment Plant. From his humble beginnings as a plant operator to his leadership role at Westerly, Travis describes the transition from shift work to management duties, the job's impact on family life, and his team's responsibility for meeting EPA permits.

Amid Travis's candid anecdotes, we explore the technical side of wastewater treatment, the complexities of solids handling, centrifuges, and maintaining a delicate biosphere of bacteria to "accelerate natural processes."

Ever wondered if you're recycling correctly? Matt Walters is the Special Recycling Programs Coordinator for the Cuyahoga County Solid Waste District (CCSWD), and in this Clean Water Works he sheds light on the intricacies of recycling items like old batteries, motor oil, and even fireworks, and emphasizes the importance of environmentally-friendly alternatives. Discover the crucial role that proper disposal plays in environmental health.

Given the direct connection between the waste stream and water quality, the Northeast Ohio Regional Sewer District has a long-standing partnership with the CCSWD. We break down household recycling in Cuyahoga County, debunking myths and clarifying what truly belongs in your recycling bin. Matt also takes us through the material sorting processes and highlights the economic and environmental rewards of getting recycling right.

Visit cuyahogarecycles.org for more info on where and how to dispose of your hazardous household items.

SANDUSKY, OH: Anything you want to know about stormwater management you can learn at the Ohio Stormwater Conference. This year's event was held at Kalahari Resort in Sandusky, Ohio, with attendees engaging in cutting-edge discussions on environmental issues and emerging technologies. Discover the unique networking opportunities presented at the OSC, which can benefit students and others looking to enter the field.

Learn more about the annual Ohio Stormwater Conference.

This episode's guests:

David Ritter, Manager of Watershed Technical Support, NEORSD
Angela Brodie, NOWCorps Program Director
Callie Sommers, Cuyahoga Soil & Water Conservation District
Nina White, Tinker's Creek Watershed Partners
Shawn Robinson, Environmental Compliance Inspector, NEORSD
Erica Matheny, Executive Director, Tinker's Creek Watershed Partners
Harry Stark, Director of Public Services, City of Aurora
Allison Stark, Student, Kent State University
Kevin Jehl, Advanced Drainage Systems
Mike Cook, Advanced Drainage Systems