2022 is here and we are all excited to see what this year will bring. But before we dive into new discussions, developments, and events, we would like to reflect on some important industry news that broke last year. Looking back at the unique challenges and topics of 2021 may help predict how our industry will change as we progress through the new year…
Stormwater Preparedness: Are You Ready for Stormwater Season?
Stormwater season is upon us! If you haven’t reviewed your company stormwater pollution prevention plan (SWPPP) recently or are unsure of the monitoring parameters required under your Standard Industrial Code (SIC) within the current Industrial General Permit (IGP), now is a good time to review your monitoring responsibilities. Monitoring locations are identified in the SWPPP, and tests are typically specific to your industry and dictated by your SIC code. It is always advisable to review the SWPPP so that you make certain your organization is in compliance with the region’s…
"Quality Through Collaboration": ELAP Hosts Inaugural Conference
In June, water industry professionals across California sat down at their computers and turned on their video cameras to participate in ELAP’s inaugural conference. The event was held virtually from June 1st to June 3rd and featured expert presentations on the latest in environmental testing and analysis. Attendees also gained valuable insight into important developments in the industry, including ELAP’s changing accreditation regulations.
This year’s conference is a part of ELAP’s larger efforts to modernize their program requirements and transition laboratories into the new accreditation process. The Environmental Laboratory Accreditation Program or ELAP, has been around since 1989, when it was founded as part of the California Environmental Laboratory Improvement Act. ELAP’s mission is to…
An Ounce of Preparation Wise For Stormwater Monitoring Season In Spite of Likely La Nina Winter
Autumn is here and California’s rainy season, which typically lasts from November to April, is right around the corner, but this year’s stormwater season may not see many storms. The latest data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) suggests California could be heading into a La Nina winter for the second year in a row. Despite the lack of rain clouds brewing in the near future, now is a good time to start dusting your stormwater management plans.
The El Nino Southern Oscillation (ENSO) phenomenon is an important factor in global climate patterns and rainfall. Scientists categorize ENSO as a single ocean-atmospheric phenomenon with three phases: El Nino, La Nina, and neutral. During a La Nina, sea surface temperatures (SST) in the equatorial Pacific drop below normal thresholds and trigger a….
It’s Not Over When the Fire Goes Out
As 2021 enters peak fire season, firefighters across the state are battling over a dozen blazes. This year, record breaking temperatures paired with unusually dry conditions have set California up for a devastating fire season that could surpass last year’s already unprecedented wildfires. So far, Cal Fire reports roughly 2 million acres burned and over 3,000 homes, businesses, and other structures damaged or destroyed in the 2021 fire season. The Dixie fire, which has burned for two months and scorched over 900,000 acres of Northern California, is now the second largest fire in state history--right behind the August Complex of 2020.
Even as heroic firefighters work to contain the blazes, state officials warn that ongoing drought conditions could extend this year’s fire season. California entered 2021 bone-dry after an exceptionally mild winter and overall the entire state is experiencing moderate drought conditions, according to the US Drought Monitor. 45% of California is experiencing D4 or “exceptional” drought conditions, the most severe classification. Winter isn’t likely to bring much relief either. Recent federal climate forecasts are predicting another La Nina weather event, which means a warm, dry winter for much of California. Amid these increasingly dry and hot conditions, Californians can expect the fire season to….
Babcock Laboratories’ El Centro New Microbiology Lab!
Babcock Laboratories, Inc. (Babcock Labs) is thrilled to share a sneak peek at our new microbiology laboratory, which is opening today, August 9th. Our current service center, conveniently located at 1550 Pepper Drive in El Centro, is now an accredited microbiology laboratory.
Take this virtual tour of our clean, easy to reach facility with all the essential equipment needed to meet your microbiology water testing needs. The Babcock El Centro Lab will provide clients with…