February 2022 | Volume 12 | Issue 1
ESB | Babcock Laboratories, Inc. | The Standard of Excellence for Over 100 Years
PFAS Continues to Dominate Regulatory Response
BY ALLISON MACKENZIE, Executive Vice President of Regulatory Affairs
by Allison Mackenzie, CEO Across the nation, state and federal agencies are renewing their efforts to end the toxic legacy of per– and polyfluoroalkyl substances. 2021 saw a flurry of PFAS-related legislation and proposals from both California and the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) that is carrying over into 2022. To help breakdown the state and federal government’s response to widespread PFAS contamination, here is a snapshot of the latest news in the PFAS pipeline:

Governor Newsom Signs New PFAS Bills and OEHHA Lists PFOS under Prop 65

Governor Newsom signed two major PFAS bills this fall on October 5th: AB 1200 and AB 625 Under AB 1200, or the California Safer Food Packaging and Cookware Act of 2021, no plant-based food packages with “intentionally added” PFAS may be sold or distributed after January 1, 2023. The law also requires cookware manufacturers to disclose if certain chemicals, including PFAS, are present in their products. A list of disclosed chemicals must be available online by January 1, 2023 and on the physical product by January 1, 2024. The law further prohibits manufacturers from claiming their products are free of a specific chemical, like PFOA, unless the product is also free of all chemicals in that class.

A similar bill, AB 652, prohibits the sale or distribution of any new products that contain PFAS and are designed for children under 12 years old. The products affected by AB 652 include baby blankets, cribs, car seats, playpens, and highchairs. The new law, which goes into effect on July 1, 2023, does not include any... read more
Looking Beyond the Pandemic: Climate Change and Drought In 2021
Illustration
Over the past year, the Covid-19 pandemic pulled state resources and public attention away from the looming specter of global climate change. But while our attention was fixed on vaccine rollouts and mask mandates, climate change didn’t stop impacting California’s water. 2021 heralded some unprecedented water challenges for districts across the state. Now more than ever, we need to talk about climate change and the role it plays in California’s droughts.

It is well established that California’s droughts are becoming more common and more severe. The past year was one of the driest in a century; crucial reservoirs like Lake Mead have dropped to record lows; and many communities continue to over-draft groundwater aquifers to keep up with demand. In October, Governor Gavin Newsom declared a statewide drought emergency and asked Californians to “redouble our efforts to save water in every way possible.” For many, the sight of depleted reservoirs and bone-dry wells looks eerily similar to the height of California’s last major drought––which only officially ended 2 years ago.

So what is happening to California’s droughts...read more
A Quick Year in Review: 2021
Illustration
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.

January: The Delta Conveyance Project

At the start of 2021, the Metropolitan Board of Directors approved funding for the Delta Conveyance Project––a state initiative for building modern and resilient water infrastructure in the critical Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta. The Delta is the hub of California’s water supplies and provides affordable, high-quality water to over 27 million Californians and 750,000 acres of farmland. But this critical juncture is vulnerable to many mounting dangers, including large earthquakes, rising sea levels, and the effects of climate change. Despite the need for updated water infrastructure, past iterations of the Delta Conveyance Project failed because of environmental concerns and a hefty price tag. The current project is undergoing an Environmental Impact Review that will be available to the public sometime this year. The Metropolitan Board voted unanimously to... read more
In Case You Missed It:
Stormwater Preparedness: Are You Ready for Stormwater Season? (read more)

"Quality Through Collaboration": ELAP Hosts Inaugural Conference (read more)

An Ounce of Preparation Wise for Stormwater Monitoring Season In Spite of Likely La Nina Weather (read more)

It's Not Over When the Fire Goes Out (read more)

Babcock Laboratories' El Centro New Microbiology Lab! (read more)

Life In Plastic: California Charges Ahead (read more)

State Accredited Bacteriological Testing with a Reputable Lab in El Centro! (read more)

Jeff Kightlinger Reflects of California's Future Water Challenges (read more)



Holiday Reminder
Babcock Labs will be closed Monday, February 21st, in observance of Presidents' Day (Contact Project Manager)
Did you know?
Babcock Labs is fully approved by the USEPA to perform all UCMR 5 analyses. Our experience with the program and our expert staff makes Babcock Labs an excellent resource for UCMR 5 questions and testing services. Whether you have questions about program requirements, are looking for a quote or to begin the planning process, or are interested in sample collection, analysis, and reporting services - we are here to help! (learn more)

Babcock Labs is CA ELAP accredited to perform all 18 analytes for EPA Method 537.1 and all 38 analytes under the DoD QSM 5.3. Also offered at Babcock Labs is EPA Method 533 for short-chain PFAs analytes. ( learn more)
Laboratory Services
Quick Links
Contact Us
Scott Dallas
Business Development Associate
951-653-3351 x 162

Cathy Iijima
Client Relations Manager
951-653-3351 x 135
Please note that Babcock Labs strictly adheres to sample acceptance criteria, pursuant to Standard Methods, EPA Methods, and regulatory requirements.

We're Hiring!
Do you know someone who would be interested in a STEM career at an Employee-Owned Top Workplace in the IE?
Industry Events
February

March

April
*Look for us! Babcock Labs is attending this event.
**Babcock Labs is attending and sponsoring/speaking at this event.
***Welcome! Babcock Labs is hosting this event.
info@babcocklabs.com Facebook Twitter Linked In
You are subscribed as test@example.com.
This message was sent from
Copyright © 2022 Babcock Laboratories, Inc., All rights reserved.

 

September 2021 | Volume 11 | Issue 8
ESB | Babcock Laboratories, Inc. | The Standard of Excellence for Over 100 Years
An Ounce of Preparation Wise For Stormwater Monitoring Season In Spite of Likely La Nina Winter
BY ALLISON MACKENZIE, Executive Vice President of Regulatory Affairs
by Allison Mackenzie, CEO 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 off your stormwater pollution prevention 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 global cooling effect that often influences local rainfall patterns. The opposite, a rise in ocean temperatures, occurs during an El Nino. In the US, La Nina events tend to push storms further north into Washington and Oregon, leaving much of California with below-average rainfall.

This year’s back-to-back La Nina conditions is fairly common; out of the last 12 first-year La Nina events with 8 of them followed by a second La Nina. According to NOAA , this pattern can be attributed to... read more
It’s Not Over When the Fire Goes Out
Illustration
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... read more
“Quality Through Collaboration”: ELAP Hosts Inaugural Conference
Illustration
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... read more
In Case You Missed It:
Babcock Laboratories' El Centro New Microbiology Lab! (read more)

Life In Plastic: California Charges Ahead (read more)

State Accredited Bacteriological Testing with a Reputable Lab in El Centro! (read more)

Jeff Kightlinger Reflects of California's Future Water Challenges (read more)




Congress and States Take Action Against PFAS (read more)

Are the Tides Turning for the Dying Salton Sea? (read more)



CARB and a Green, Energized Future for Riverside (read more)

Local Water Quality: Regional Boards Have a Plan For That! (read more)


Holiday Reminder
Babcock Labs will be closed Thursday, November 25th, and Friday, November 26th, in observance of Thanksgiving Day (Contact Project Manager)
Did you know?
The Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment (OEHHA) announces an extension of the public comment period for the proposed Public Health Goals (PHGs) for perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS) in drinking water. The public comment period is now extended to October 28, 2021.

The Revised Total Coliform Rule has been approved and goes into effect July 1, 2021. (learn more)


Babcock Labs is CA ELAP accredited to perform all 18 analytes for EPA Method 537.1 and all 38 analytes under the DoD QSM 5.3. Also offered at Babcock Labs is EPA Method 533 for short-chain PFAs analytes. ( learn more)
Laboratory Services
Quick Links
Contact Us
Scott Dallas
Business Development Associate
951-653-3351 x 162

Cathy Iijima
Client Relations Manager
951-653-3351 x 135
Please note that Babcock Labs strictly adheres to sample acceptance criteria, pursuant to Standard Methods, EPA Methods, and regulatory requirements.

We're Hiring!
Do you know someone who would be interested in a STEM career at an Employee-Owned Top Workplace in the IE?
Industry Events
October

November
*Look for us! Babcock Labs is attending this event.
**Babcock Labs is attending and sponsoring/speaking at this event.
***Welcome! Babcock Labs is hosting this event.
info@babcocklabs.com Facebook Twitter Linked In
You are subscribed as test@example.com.
This message was sent from
Copyright © 2021 Babcock Laboratories, Inc., All rights reserved.

July 2021 | Volume 11 | Issue 7
ESB | Babcock Laboratories, Inc. | The Standard of Excellence for Over 100 Years
Life in Plastic: California Charges Ahead
BY ALLISON MACKENZIE, Executive Vice President of Regulatory Affairs
by Allison Mackenzie, CEO California is blazing new environmental trails again. The State is set to become the first government in the world to issue a standard testing methodology and preliminary health assessment for microplastics in drinking water. The guidelines, originally scheduled for release this month but delayed due to the pandemic, will be published during the fall of 2021. There is considerable interest in the State Water Board’s (SWB’s) upcoming report, both within the water industry and the broader public. With plastic creeping into every facet of modern life, the SWB’s conclusions will likely lay the foundations for further research and policies.

Since the creation of the first synthetic ivory in 1869, plastic has become the invisible backbone of the modern world. Synthetic materials often serve as cheaper, more durable substitutes for rare and expensive natural resources like silk, ivory, and wood. Plastic production also facilitates many modern inventions and comforts, such as cars, computers, and phones. But the societal benefits of plastics in our day-to-day lives come at a cost as discarded plastic waste builds in our environment—and potentially in our drinking water. Increasingly, the prevalence of plastic in our world has bred concern about the long-term consequences of exposure to... read more
Jeff Kightlinger Reflects on California’s Future Water Challenges
Illustration
After fifteen years leading the largest water provider in California, Jeff Kightlinger stepped down from his role as general manager at Metropolitan Water District (MWD). Over the course of his career, Kightlinger oversaw the water supply for 19 million Californians during unprecedented challenges to the state’s water security. His experience as general manager makes him a foremost expert on the many challenges currently threatening California’s water supplies—from crumbling infrastructure to a drying Colorado River. Before passing on the torch to his successor at Metropolitan, Kightlinger sat down with Western Water to provide some final thoughts about the future of California’s water.

In the years since Kightlinger first joined MWD district as a deputy general counsel in 1995, California’s waterscape has undergone rapid transformations. Global climate change and aging infrastructure threaten two of Southern California’s largest water sources: the Sierra Nevada Mountains and the Colorado River. With traditional water supplies drying up, water agencies are increasingly relying on conservation programs and local water projects to meet public demand...read more
In Case You Missed It:



Congress and States Take Action Against PFAS (read more)

Are the Tides Turning for the Dying Salton Sea? (read more)



CARB and a Green, Energized Future for Riverside (read more)

Local Water Quality: Regional Boards Have a Plan For That! (read more)

March Showers Bring More Than April Flowers to Water Conservation (read more)
Industry Events
August


September


October
Holiday Reminder
Babcock Labs will be closed Monday, September 6th, in observance of Labor Day (Contact Project Manager)
Did you know?
The Revised Total Coliform Rule has been approved and goes into effect July 1, 2021. (learn more)


Babcock Labs is CA ELAP accredited to perform all 18 analytes for EPA Method 537.1 and all 38 analytes under the DoD QSM 5.3. Also offered at Babcock Labs is EPA Method 533 for short-chain PFAs analytes. ( learn more)
Laboratory Services
Quick Links
Contact Us
Scott Dallas
Business Development Associate
951-653-3351 x 162

Cathy Iijima
Client Relations Manager
951-653-3351 x 135
Please note that Babcock Labs strictly adheres to sample acceptance criteria, pursuant to Standard Methods, EPA Methods, and regulatory requirements.

We're Hiring!
Do you know someone who would be interested in a STEM career at an Employee-Owned Top Workplace in the IE?
*Look for us! Babcock Labs is attending this event.
**Babcock Labs is attending and sponsoring/speaking at this event.
***Welcome! Babcock Labs is hosting this event.
info@babcocklabs.com Facebook Twitter Linked In
You are subscribed as test@example.com.
This message was sent from
Copyright © 2021 Babcock Laboratories, Inc., All rights reserved.

 

June 2021 | Volume 11 | Issue 6
ESB | Babcock Laboratories, Inc. | The Standard of Excellence for Over 100 Years
Portantino Leads Effort to Manage CECs in CA
BY ALLISON MACKENZIE, Executive Vice President of Regulatory Affairs
by Allison Mackenzie, CEO Over the last decade, advancements in analytical testing technologies have revealed new categories of previously undetectable substances now dubbed as CECs—Constituents of Emerging Concern. This ever broadening group of chemicals and microorganisms pose unprecedented technical, legal, and financial challenges; but arguably, the biggest hurdle is the lack of available information about the persistence, prevalence, or toxicity of many substances referred to as CECs. In an effort to fill those data gaps, Senator Portantino introduced Senate Bill Number 230 (SB 230) to California’s State legislature this year. The bill, which seems to enjoy wide support from water agencies, would mark the first state-wide effort to address CECs as a category.

While information has grown over the past few years, most research has focused on high-profile chemicals or chemical families. This is partially because CECs are such an immense and diverse category; any new or newly detected and unregulated substance found in California’s waters is considered a CEC. This broad definition encompasses thousands of substances from personal care products to industrial chemicals, and many lack robust toxicological information. Although experts can directly or indirectly test for some CECs in concentrations as low as parts per trillion, they are often working with numbers that currently lack context. Without knowing exactly which chemicals have been detected or the toxicity thresholds for... read more
Pyrethroids—Gardeners Best Friend Versus Fishy Foe
Illustration
Spring is underway, and across California, gardeners and farmers are combating the season’s annual pest problem: insects. But the pesticides that protect our roses and our lettuce may be harming more than just the bugs. Pesticides, in particular pyrethroids, are making their way from our gardens, farms, and houses into our watersheds, where they pose a serious threat to California’s aquatic populations. With annual pesticide use expected to peak in the coming months, now is the time to ask some questions. What are pyrethroids? How are they impacting our water systems? What is being done to mitigate the potential problems associated with their use?

Since the late 19th century, pyrethroids have been around and are similar to some naturally occurring insecticides, called pyrethrins, found in chrysanthemum flowers. But unlike pyrethrins, pyrethroids are manufactured chemicals designed to quickly incapacitate insect nervous systems and simultaneously resist environmental degradation. Their low toxicity to humans, mammals, and birds makes them ideal for a variety of agricultural, public health, and domestic purposes. Pyrethroid compounds are effective insecticides employed on farms and in homes across the US. In particular, pyrethroids are an efficient... read more
State Accredited Bacteriological Testing with a Reputable Lab in El Centro!
Illustration
Babcock Laboratories, Inc is counting the days until the launch of our local lab in El Centro. As soon as formal notification is received, the El Centro Microbiology Lab and Service Center will expand Babcock’s offerings to include testing for bacteria in drinking water and wastewater performed in the Imperial Valley.

We are thrilled at the opportunity to add to our local service capabilities and enhance our long-standing relationships with the people of the Imperial and Coachella Valleys. Our new microbiology lab meets the strict and rigorous standards set forth by the State of California's Environmental Laboratory Accreditation Program (ELAP). This stringent... read more
In Case You Missed It:
Congress and States Take Action Against PFAS (read more)

Are the Tides Turning for the Dying Salton Sea? (read more)



CARB and a Green, Energized Future for Riverside (read more)

Local Water Quality: Regional Boards Have a Plan For That! (read more)

March Showers Bring More Than April Flowers to Water Conservation (read more)

Holiday Reminder
Babcock Labs will be closed Monday, July 5th, in observance of Independence Day (Contact Project Manager)
Did you know?
Babcock Labs is CA ELAP accredited to perform all 18 analytes for EPA Method 537.1 and all 38 analytes under the DoD QSM 5.3. Also offered at Babcock Labs is EPA Method 533 for short-chain PFAs analytes. ( learn more)

Laboratory Services
Quick Links
Contact Us
Scott Dallas
Business Development Associate
951-653-3351 x 162

Cathy Iijima
Client Relations Manager
951-653-3351 x 135
Please note that Babcock Labs strictly adheres to sample acceptance criteria, pursuant to Standard Methods, EPA Methods, and regulatory requirements.

We're Hiring!
Do you know someone who would be interested in a STEM career at an Employee-Owned Top Workplace in the IE?
Industry Events
July

August

September
*Look for us! Babcock Labs is attending this event.
**Babcock Labs is attending and sponsoring/speaking at this event.
***Welcome! Babcock Labs is hosting this event.
info@babcocklabs.com Facebook Twitter Linked In
You are subscribed as test@example.com.
This message was sent from
Copyright © 2021 Babcock Laboratories, Inc., All rights reserved.

 

May 2021 | Volume 11 | Issue 5
ESB | Babcock Laboratories, Inc. | The Standard of Excellence for Over 100 Years
Congress and States Take Action Against PFAS
BY ALLISON MACKENZIE, Executive Vice President of Regulatory Affairs
by Allison Mackenzie, CEO Amid nationwide pressure to end the toxic legacy of these “forever chemicals,” a new tide of state and federal per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) legislation is inundating the country. Last month, Michigan Representatives Debbie Dingell and Fred Upton, along with 25 other members of Congress, introduced a bold new PFAS Action Act to the House of Representatives. The proposed bill includes some far-reaching provisions like establishing certain PFAS as “hazardous substances” under the Superfund law--an action that remains highly controversial.

This year alone, over 180 bills concerned with PFAS will be under consideration in 27 states. Many of these laws aim to establish safe drinking water levels, phase out PFAS based firefighting foams, allocate money towards research and remediation of PFAS, and address PFAS in consumer products, particularly in food packaging. Outside California, states that have recently passed laws concerning PFAS include Michigan, Washington, Connecticut, Maine, and New York (among others). But a patchwork coalition of states will not be enough to combat the mounting concerns about PFAS in our environment. Without nationwide legislation, PFAS will continue to impact our... read more
Are the Tides Turning for the Dying Salton Sea?
Illustration
It looks like something from the beginning of a science fiction novel—dilapidated and decaying architecture protrudes from red-stained shores, swirling clouds of toxic dust whip over the desolate landscape, and a horrible smell like rotting eggs wafts from the surface of the listless water. But this isn’t a colony on Mars or an apocalyptic future Earth; this is the present-day Salton Sea in Imperial County, California.

For decades, the State of California has failed to address this accidental lake turned environmental catastrophe. The once thriving Salton Sea now faces a host of issues with receding shores, contaminated water, and an exposed playa (or lakebed) that forms massive, toxic dust storms. Although California took responsibility for maintaining the Salton Sea in the early 2000s, the state has yet to allocate the money and workforce needed to fix this brewing disaster. But after years of red tape and unfulfilled promises, the tides may be turning for the Salton Sea. In November of 2020, Dr. Raul Ruiz--US Representative of the 36th district--in coordination with Representative Juan Vargas of the 51st district, introduced H.R. 9775 to Congress. The bill, also called the Salton Sea Public Health and Environmental Protection Act, marks the first serious attempt at... read more
In Case You Missed It:


CARB and a Green, Energized Future for Riverside (read more)

Local Water Quality: Regional Boards Have a Plan For That! (read more)

March Showers Bring More Than April Flowers to Water Conservation (read more)

California Pushed to Add PFAS (read more)




Industry Events
June


August

Holiday Reminder
Babcock Labs will be closed Monday, May 31st, in observance of Memorial Day (Contact Project Manager)
Congratulations Joe Mouawad on being named the new General Manager for Eastern Municipal Water District! (read more)

Did you know?
Babcock Labs is CA ELAP accredited to perform all 18 analytes for EPA Method 537.1 and all 38 analytes under the DoD QSM 5.3. Also offered at Babcock Labs is EPA Method 533 for short-chain PFAs analytes. (learn more)

Laboratory Services
Quick Links
Contact Us
Scott Dallas
Business Development Associate
951-653-3351 x 162

Cathy Iijima
Client Relations Manager
951-653-3351 x 135
Please note that Babcock Labs strictly adheres to sample acceptance criteria, pursuant to Standard Methods, EPA Methods, and regulatory requirements.

We're Hiring!
Do you know someone who would be interested in a STEM career at an Employee-Owned Top Workplace in the IE?
*Look for us! Babcock Labs is attending this event.
**Babcock Labs is attending and sponsoring/speaking at this event.
***Welcome! Babcock Labs is hosting this event.
info@babcocklabs.com Facebook Twitter Linked In
You are subscribed as test@example.com.
This message was sent from
Copyright © 2021 Babcock Laboratories, Inc., All rights reserved.

 

April 2021 | Volume 11 | Issue 4
ESB | Babcock Laboratories, Inc. | The Standard of Excellence for Over 100 Years
PFAS Remediation - Time To Clean Up Our Act
BY ALLISON MACKENZIE, Executive Vice President of Development, Public Affairs & Advocacy
by Allison Mackenzie, CEO With our world waking up to the realization some everyday products contain forever chemicals known as PFAS, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, scientists and engineers are working to find the most cost-effective, efficient, and environmentally responsible way to remediate them. The financial and technical challenges of remediating PFAS are cause for serious concern. With over 2,300 contaminated sites across the United States to clean-up, we need an efficient method for removing these toxic chemicals from our water, soil, and biota. But remediation efforts currently face two enormous hurdles: who will pay, and how will we clean up the environmental mess we are just beginning to uncover?

Part of the difficulty with PFAS remediation stems from the chemistry. PFAS contain carbon-fluorine bonds—some of the strongest bonds found in nature. This resiliency makes PFAS ideal for heat-resistant products like firefighting gear, water, oil, and grease repellent products like food wrappers, carpets, water-proof clothing, and non-stick cookware. The widespread usefulness and commercial profitability of PFAS has kept them in production since the 1940s and facilitated the development of over 3,000 different compounds. But the same chemical stability that makes PFAS useful also makes them resistant to the natural processes that break down other pollutants. Once released into the environment, these toxic chemicals bioaccumulate in the tissues of plants and animals and can disseminate far beyond the original point of exposure. In many ways, PFAS are a remediation nightmare... read more
SWB Shows Renewed Focus on Constituents of Emerging Concern
Illustration
Man-made chemicals are everywhere in our modern world—in pharmaceuticals, health care products, pesticides, and cookware. But a vast array of the same chemicals present in our household goods also contaminate our environment and aquatic ecosystems. These Constituents of Emerging Concern, or CECs, are gaining notoriety as potential hazards to marine environments, aquatic wildlife, and human health. In response to rapid advancements in testing and a growing body of literature surrounding emerging contaminants, the Southern California Coastal Water Research Project (SCCWRP) was asked by the State Water Board (SWB) in April, 2020, to reconvene the CEC Ecosystem Panel. The panel, tasked with updating previous recommendations for monitoring CECs, is on track to produce a new report by the end of the year.

The panel was first convened in 2009 to address the thousands of unregulated contaminants detected in California’s aquatic environments. These emerging contaminants enter watersheds through a variety of point and nonpoint sources—most commonly... read more
CARB and a Green, Energized Future for Riverside
Illustration
After four years of construction and a decade of planning, CARB (California Air Resource Board) will open the doors to their new facility in Riverside. The new facilities will expand CARB’s vehicle emission testing capabilities and provide vital, advanced equipment for air quality and climate change research. The facility’s close proximity to the University of California Riverside’s (UCR’s) campus also creates new opportunities for CARB and UCR to invest in cooperative environmental programs.

Since 1967, CARB has spearheaded California’s efforts to address air pollution and climate change. Prior to the creation of CARB, California had some of the worst air quality in the country. Sunny weather combined with... read more
In Case You Missed It:
Local Water Quality: Regional Boards Have a Plan For That! (read more)

March Showers Bring More Than April Flowers to Water Conservation (read more)

California Pushed to Add PFAS (read more)





Holiday Reminder
Babcock Labs will be closed Monday, May 31st, in observance of Memorial Day (Contact Project Manager)
Did you know?
Babcock Labs is CA ELAP accredited to perform all 18 analytes for EPA Method 537.1 and all 38 analytes under the DoD QSM 5.3. Also offered at Babcock Labs is EPA Method 533 for short-chain PFAs analytes. ( learn more)

Have you heard about Babcock Labs new sample receiving procedure? (learn more)
Laboratory Services
Quick Links
Contact Us
Scott Dallas
Business Development Associate
951-653-3351 x 162

Cathy Iijima
Client Relations Manager
951-653-3351 x 135
Please note that Babcock Labs strictly adheres to sample acceptance criteria, pursuant to Standard Methods, EPA Methods, and regulatory requirements.

We're Hiring!
Do you know someone who would be interested in a STEM career at an Employee-Owned Top Workplace in the IE?
Industry Events
May

June
*Look for us! Babcock Labs is attending this event.
**Babcock Labs is attending and sponsoring/speaking at this event.
***Welcome! Babcock Labs is hosting this event.
info@babcocklabs.com Facebook Twitter Linked In
You are subscribed as test@example.com.
This message was sent from
Copyright © 2021 Babcock Laboratories, Inc., All rights reserved.

March 2021 | Volume 11 | Issue 3
ESB | Babcock Laboratories, Inc. | The Standard of Excellence for Over 100 Years
March Showers Bring More Than April Flowers to Water Conservation
BY ALLISON MACKENZIE, Executive Vice President of Development, Public Affairs & Advocacy
by Allison Mackenzie, CEO Californians have traditionally managed stormwater as both a waste product and an environmental hazard. But extreme drought and harsh storm events have shifted perceptions over the last few decades. In regions struggling with water security, stormwater capture can increase water resiliency, protect urban developments, and safeguard water quality. Moving forward, stormwater capture will become increasingly important to water conservation efforts.

The growing importance of stormwater is intrinsically connected to the effects of global climate change on California’s water supplies and precipitation patterns. Global warming is no secret; average air temperatures have increased since 1895 and last year saw a record breaking heat wave.Nowhere is temperature rise more apparent than in the Sierra Nevada Mountains—a vital source of water for the state. The Sierra snowpack provides drinking water to 23 million Californians and feeds into several important state water infrastructure projects. The mountains serve as our frozen reservoirs during the winter, stockpiling water and gradually releasing it as snowmelt during the spring. But rising temperatures mean less snow and more rain in the mountains and an accelerated springtime melting process. Consequently, stormwater floods can overwhelm reservoirs, which are not built to efficiently capture or store large, sudden influxes of water. Snow reserves have... read more
California Pushes to Add PFAS
Illustration
Regulating PFAS, or per and polyfluoroalkyl substances, is no easy task; there are almost 5,000 compounds in the PFAS family, and each compound impacts the environment and public health differently. But as new information about this class of chemicals comes to light, California is taking action. Last month, the state focused its attention on a particularly prevalent member of the PFAS universe—perfluorobutane sulfonic acid (PFBS) and this month the Division of Drinking Water (DDW) established new PFBS notification and response levels. But a federal rule proposed by the EPA may also have a significant impact on current and future California PFAS policies, especially for chemicals of emerging prominence like PFBS.

Over the past few years, PFAS have been the subject of increased legislative and scientific scrutiny. First manufactured in the 1940s, PFAS are used in products that resist heat, water, oil, stains and grease. Many of these products are now integrated into everyday items; furniture, carpets, food packaging, water-proof clothes, and non-stick cookware can all contain PFAS. A significant potential source of PFAS exposure may also occur in certain sources of drinking water. PFAS may contaminate water from a variety of sources, but industrial sites, landfills, wastewater treatment plants, military bases, and airports are all suspected sources of PFAS pollution. Once PFAS enter the water system, usually via discharge or leachate, these “forever chemicals” spread and linger within... read more
Local Water Quality: Regional Boards Have a Plan For That!
Illustration
Water is a foundational, and frequently contentious, aspect of California’s legislation and history. Laws governing water rights were some of the first laws passed after California gained statehood in 1850. By the turn of the century, California had created the first iteration of what is now the State Water Board and published the first version of the state water plan. But by the 1940s, rapid urban and industrial development led to increased concern over water quality. The next few decades saw the establishment of what are now California’s key water quality regulators: The Regional Water Quality Control Boards.

The modern regional boards are rooted in the 1949 Dickey Water Pollution Act, which established the first State Water Pollution Control Board and corresponding regional boards. The Act recognized that water problems throughout the state varied based on regional precipitation, climate, topography, population, and development. To address these variances, lawmakers created... read more
In Case You Missed It:





Biosolids: The Ultimate Recycling Success Story (read more)

Babcock Laboratories Found a More Permanent Home in Imperial County! (read more)


Mobile Food Facility
Did you know?
Babcock Labs is CA ELAP accredited to perform all 18 analytes for EPA Method 537.1 and all 38 analytes under the DoD QSM 5.3. Also offered at Babcock Labs is EPA Method 533 for short-chain PFAs analytes. ( learn more)

Have you heard about Babcock Labs new sample receiving procedure? (learn more)
Laboratory Services
Quick Links
Contact Us
Scott Dallas
Business Development Associate
951-653-3351 x 162

Cathy Iijima
Client Relations Manager
951-653-3351 x 135
Please note that Babcock Labs strictly adheres to sample acceptance criteria, pursuant to Standard Methods, EPA Methods, and regulatory requirements.

We're Hiring!
Do you know someone who would be interested in a STEM career at an Employee-Owned Top Workplace in the IE?
Industry Events
April
6-7 USEPA - Unregulated Contaminant Monitoring Rule (UCMR) Meetings and Materials (Webinar)

May
*Look for us! Babcock Labs is attending this event.
**Babcock Labs is attending and sponsoring/speaking at this event.
***Welcome! Babcock Labs is hosting this event.
info@babcocklabs.com Facebook Twitter Linked In
You are subscribed as test@example.com.
This message was sent from
Copyright © 2021 Babcock Laboratories, Inc., All rights reserved.

 

February 2021 | Volume 11 | Issue 2
ESB | Babcock Laboratories, Inc. | The Standard of Excellence for Over 100 Years
Peek Behind the Federal Regulatory Curtain: PFAS and Changing Policies
BY ALLISON MACKENZIE, Executive Vice President of Development, Public Affairs & Advocacy
by Allison Mackenzie, CEO PFAS are at the top of our minds and our news feeds as scientists reveal more data about the impact of polyfluoroalkyl substances on our health and our environment. Environmental groups, scientists, laboratories, and politicians across the aisle agree; it’s time to legislate these “forever chemicals.” 2020 took some steps towards regulating PFAS, especially PFOA and PFOS, which are known carcinogens and are linked to many other long-term health effects. But more work needs to be done. To help break down the federal government’s response to PFAS, here is a snapshot of recent news in the PFAS pipeline.

National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA)

On January 1, Congress overrode President Trump’s veto and enacted H.R. 6395 (NDAA), the authorization bill that directs spending for the Department of Defense (DoD) in conjunction with the FY 21 omnibus appropriations bill.

The 2021 NDAA addresses PFAS contamination on military bases and in military equipment. Multiple provisions follow-up on the 2020 NDAA provisions, which began phasing out AFFF (Aqueous Fire Fighting Foam) after studies linked AFFF with PFAS contaminated ground and drinking water. on military bases and in surrounding communities. Follow-up actions include... read more
California Braces for Possible Legionella Outbreak After Lockdown
Illustration
California businesses are reopening after the long lockdown. But our empty offices, hotels, restaurants, and gyms may have collected more than just dust; a deadly bacteria called legionella could be growing in the pipes.

Legionella pneumophila is one of over 58 strains of Legionella bacteria that flourish in showers, sinks, cooling towers, hot tubs, decorative water features, hot water tanks, and plumbing systems. When aerosolized droplets of Legionella pneumophila are inhaled, the bacteria causes a deadly form of pneumonia known as Legionnaires' Disease. Although Legionnaires’ Disease is treatable with antibiotics, about 1 out of 10 people die from the illness; the elderly, smokers, and the immunocompromised are especially vulnerable. The CDC reported about 10,000 cases of Legionnaires’ Disease in 2018, but experts believe the true number of cases is higher. Case numbers are also on the rise; the rate of reported cases grew ninefold from 2000 to 2018. Health officials remain unsure if the trend is an artifact of better testing or indicative of environmental and demographic factors like antiquated infrastructure and a larger elderly population. If the trend continues, the US may be on track for a historic number of cases in 2021; experts fear... read more
Inland News Group Names Babcock Laboratories a Winner of the Inland Empire Top Workplaces 2020 Award!
Illustration
Babcock Laboratories (Babcock Labs) is honored to announce that it has been named a Top Workplace in the Inland Empire for the fourth year in a row!

On January 31, 2021, the Press Enterprise announced the 2020 Top Workplaces and designated Babcock Labs as a Top Workplace in the small business category. We feel this award recognizes and praises our employee-owners who have made and continue to make Babcock Labs a great place to work. 2020 heralded unprecedented challenges, and we are so proud of our team for adapting and thriving under these difficult circumstances.

The nationally recognized Top Workplace program was established in... read more
In Case You Missed It:











Lead and Copper Rule
Did you know?
Babcock Labs is CA ELAP accredited to perform all 18 analytes for EPA Method 537.1 and all 38 analytes under the DoD QSM 5.3. Also offered at Babcock Labs is EPA Method 533 for short-chain PFAs analytes. ( learn more)

Have you heard about Babcock Labs new sample receiving procedure? (learn more)
Laboratory Services
Quick Links
Contact Us
Scott Dallas
Business Development Associate
951-653-3351 x 162

Cathy Iijima
Client Relations Manager
951-653-3351 x 135
Please note that Babcock Labs strictly adheres to sample acceptance criteria, pursuant to Standard Methods, EPA Methods, and regulatory requirements.

We're Hiring!
Do you know someone who would be interested in a STEM career at an Employee-Owned Top Workplace in the IE?
Industry Events
March

April
*Look for us! Babcock Labs is attending this event.
**Babcock Labs is attending and sponsoring/speaking at this event.
***Welcome! Babcock Labs is hosting this event.
info@babcocklabs.com Facebook Twitter Linked In
You are subscribed as test@example.com.
This message was sent from
Copyright © 2021 Babcock Laboratories, Inc., All rights reserved.

 

January 2021 | Volume 11 | Issue 1
ESB | Babcock Laboratories, Inc. | The Standard of Excellence for Over 100 Years
Purple is the New Green: IEUA Invests in Expanded Water Recycling Facility
BY ALLISON MACKENZIE, Executive Vice President of Development, Public Affairs & Advocacy
by Allison Mackenzie, CEO A cheap and sustainable water conservation method is the proverbial silver bullet of California’s water politics, but it is not easy finding a solution friendly to both our environment and wallets. Many experts believe that, of the methods available, wastewater recycling is California’s best way forward. One major local proponent of water recycling is the Inland Empire Utilities Agency, or IEUA. Last fall, IEUA began constructing an expanded recycling facility in Chino, San Bernardino County. Their expanded facility will be able to treat 22.5 million gallons of wastewater per day--the agency’s most ambitious recycling project yet.

Wastewater recycling is a familiar concept to California. As far back as the 1800s,farmers utilized wastewater for growing crops. By 1910, 35 sites used recycled water for agricultural purposes, and by 1918 California adopted the first health regulations governing wastewater reuse. Nowadays, our state reuses approximately 714,000 acre-feet of water annually, or 2.3x1011 gallons. Despite conveying so much water through purple pipes, California’s recycling programs still have a great deal of room to grow. The state could potentially recycle millions more acre-feet of water each year and has set an aggressive goal of achieving 2.5 million acre feet of recycling by 2030.

The IEUA is at the forefront of expanding recycling programs. In a recent press release about their Chino facility, IEUA General Manager Shivaji Deshmukh stated... read more
What’s Next for the Delta Conveyance Project
Illustration
The specter of California’s aging water infrastructure has haunted the state for decades, but last month the Metropolitan Board of Directors took a step towards modernizing California’s water supply. On December 8th, the Board approved funding for the Delta Conveyance Project, a state initiative for building modern and resilient water infrastructures. With the Board’s approval, the Project can conduct an environmental review of the proposed construction area: the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta.

The Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta is often referred to as the “hub” of California’s water supply and for good reason; two-thirds of California's water flows from the Sierra Mountains into the Delta. The 700 mile estuary feeds into the State Water Project (SWP) and Central Valley Project (CVP); these projects then deliver high-quality and affordable water to over 27 million Californians and 750,000 acres of farmland.

Given how important the Delta is to California’s water supply, any failure... read more
Improvement: It is a Continuous Commitment!
Illustration
2021 has arrived and for many of us the start of a new year offers an opportunity to set new goals. Oftentimes these new goals are extensions of our old commitments, but we make small changes that allow us to start the year feeling refreshed, recalibrated, and rededicated.

In the spirit of entering 2021 with renewed focus and resolve, Babcock Laboratories (Babcock Labs) has revisited and updated our core values. The principles behind these values are not new; we are still a company that believes in being responsive and reliable, and in maintaining good relationships. Instead, these updated values are a simple promise to our staff, our clients, our vendors, and our community that Babcock Labs will continue to uphold the highest ethical standards and practices. We promise to... read more
In Case You Missed It:






Holiday Reminder
Babcock Labs will be closed Monday, February 15th in observance of President's Day (Contact Project Manager)
Did you know?
Babcock Labs is CA ELAP accredited to perform all 18 analytes for EPA Method 537.1 and all 38 analytes under the DoD QSM 5.3. Also offered at Babcock Labs is EPA Method 533 for short-chain PFAs analytes. ( learn more)

Have you heard about Babcock Labs new sample receiving procedure? (learn more)
Laboratory Services
Quick Links
Contact Us
Scott Dallas
Business Development Associate
951-653-3351 x 162

Cathy Iijima
Client Relations Manager
951-653-3351 x 135
Please note that Babcock Labs strictly adheres to sample acceptance criteria, pursuant to Standard Methods, EPA Methods, and regulatory requirements.

We're Hiring!
Do you know someone who would be interested in a STEM career at an Employee-Owned Top Workplace in the IE?
Industry Events
February

March
*Look for us! Babcock Labs is attending this event.
**Babcock Labs is attending and sponsoring/speaking at this event.
***Welcome! Babcock Labs is hosting this event.
info@babcocklabs.com Facebook Twitter Linked In
You are subscribed as test@example.com.
This message was sent from
Copyright © 2021 Babcock Laboratories, Inc., All rights reserved.

 

 

December 2020 | Volume 10 | Issue 7
ESB | Babcock Laboratories, Inc. | The Standard of Excellence for Over 100 Years
Biosolids: The Ultimate Recycling Success Story
BY ALLISON MACKENZIE, CEO
by Allison Mackenzie, CEO In the wastewater treatment world, biosolids are often seen as the ultimate recycling success story. Biosolids are the nutrient-rich organic byproducts resulting from wastewater treatment and over 60% of biosolids produced nationally in the U.S. are land applied. They are used in agriculture, landscaping, forestry, and even by homeowners on lawns and gardens. Although biosolids are under scrutiny once again due to the source of their composition—human and industrial waste—preliminary evidence suggests that the beneficial use of biosolids rests on solid ground.

To learn more about the future of biosolids, new Babcock staff member, Colleen Thompson, interviewed Greg Kester, Director of Renewable Resource Programs at the California Association of Sanitation Agencies (CASA). Greg is the subject matter expert when it comes to emerging issues regarding all renewable energy, recycled water, biosolids, and climate change mitigation. “Biosolids have a plethora of benefits, they assist in creating healthy soils which help crop growth, they are significant mitigators of climate change, reduce irrigation use, offset the use of inorganic fertilizers, and essentially are the best example of recycling,” said Kester. In fact, many agricultural areas depend on biosolids to help provide micronutrients such as phosphorus to help enrich their soils and produce plentiful crops. Kester went on to say that, “Phosphorus is a finite resource that will be exhausted within a hundred years and it is vital that we recycle the amounts of phosphorus that come from our wastewater treatment facilities through biosolids.” Clearly, Mr. Kester is a fan of biosolids and knows his stuff.

But Kester also recognizes that the world of biosolids land application has a new potential challenge. The man-made forever chemical compounds collectively called Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) have caused concern over the possibility for inadvertent contamination of... read more
A Quick Year in Review: 2020
Illustration
As we welcome the end of an unprecedented year and prepare to welcome 2021, we would like to reflect on some of the key industry topics of 2020 that will likely provide clues to the issues and challenges our industry is sure to experience in the New Year.

January: WOTUS Protection Roll Back

2020 began with the Trump administration announcing intentions to roll back wetland protections, significantly weakening the current set of regulations protecting small streams and wetlands from pollution. Given the possibility that 2 out of 3 of California’s freshwater streams could be endangered by this federal policy change, California regulators acted to strengthening protections of wetlands and streams in the state.

February: Division of Drinking Water

In February, against the concerns of many public water systems, the State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) Division of Drinking Water (DDW) changed the Response Level (RL) for Perfluorooctanoic Acid (PFOA) to 10 parts per trillion (ppt) and Perfluorooctanoic Sulfonate (PFOS) to 40 ppt. According to California law (Assembly Bill 756 enacted in 2019), if a water system receives a SWRCB order for testing and finds the PFOA or PFOS... read more
Babcock Laboratories Found a More Permanent Home in Imperial County!
Illustration
Babcock Laboratories, Inc. (Babcock Labs) is pleased to announce the relocation of our service center in Imperial County. Effective Monday, December 14th, 2020, Babcock Laboratories, Inc. will be conveniently located in El Centro and will occupy a clean, modern, and easily accessed facility on 1550 Pepper Drive. We will continue to follow our current Imperial County operating hours and sample drop off time-windows until further notice. We are pleased to have found a more permanent home in Imperial County.

Babcock Labs is no stranger to the Coachella and Imperial Valleys and has a well-established reputation for excellence in customer service and quality analytical testing for over 114 years. Please contact us if you have any questions.
In Case You Missed It:


From the Ashes: Wildfire Effects on Water Quality (read more)

From the TOP to Bottom: TOP Assay Not Likely to Close Mass Balance to Total PFAS (read more)

And the 2020 Survey Says... (read more)



Holiday Reminder
Babcock Labs will be closed Friday, December 25th in observance of Christmas and Friday, January 1st in observance of New Year's Day (Contact Project Manager)
Did you know?
Babcock Labs is CA ELAP accredited to perform all 18 analytes for EPA Method 537.1 and all 38 analytes under the DoD QSM 5.3. Also offered at Babcock Labs is EPA Method 533 for short-chain PFAs analytes. ( learn more)

Have you heard about Babcock Labs new sample receiving procedure? (learn more)
Laboratory Services
Quick Links
Contact Us
Scott Dallas
Business Development Associate
951-653-3351 x 162

Cathy Iijima
Client Relations Manager
951-653-3351 x 135
Please note that Babcock Labs strictly adheres to sample acceptance criteria, pursuant to Standard Methods and regulatory requirements.

UCMR 4 is underway.
We can help!
We're Hiring!
Do you know someone who would be interested in a STEM career at an Employee-Owned Top Workplace in the IE?
Industry Events
December

January

February

*Look for us! Babcock Labs is attending this event.
**Babcock Labs is attending and sponsoring/speaking at this event.
***Welcome! Babcock Labs is hosting this event.
info@babcocklabs.com Facebook Twitter Linked In
You are subscribed as test@example.com.
This message was sent from
Copyright © 2020 Babcock Laboratories, Inc., All rights reserved.

October 2020 | Volume 10 | Issue 6
ESB | Babcock Laboratories, Inc. | The Standard of Excellence for Over 100 Years
To Grab or to Composite...That is the PFAS Question!
BY ALLISON MACKENZIE, CEO
by Allison Mackenzie, CEO The debate regarding the most appropriate method to collect non-potable liquids—specifically POTW influents and effluents—continues. Last month California State Water Quality Control Board (SWQCB) staff appeared to walk back parts of the original Phase III PFAS monitoring orders, directing the responsibility for making decisions regarding sampling techniques back to the agency and their laboratory. October is upon us and water treatment professionals are wondering which way to go. Here are a few facts and practical consideration to ponder as QAPPs and SLAPs are prepared.

July, 2020, WQ 2020-0015-DWQ

-Requires 24 hour composite sampling of influents, effluents, and RO concentrates.

-Requires the collection of equipment blanks should any autosampler parts contain fluoropolymers.

-Order states that samples must be representative of wastes and discharges.

-Requires POTW’s with existing monitoring wells to submit a monitoring plan for RWQCB approval.

-Requires monitoring wells to be sampled according to existing QAPP collection protocols, ie. grabs.

September, 2020, SWQCB, Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) Sampling Guidelines for Non-drinking Water

-Recommends the creation of a Quality Assurance Project Plan (QAPP).

-Directs the POTW to “…consult with the laboratory performing the analysis” regarding sample collection, i.e. grab or composite.

PFAS by SPE and LCMSMS in accordance with DoD QSM Table B-15 of QSM

-Sub-sampling from the original collection vessel is not permitted.

-Requires the complete liquid sample extraction and rinsing of collection vessel onto the solid phase extraction media.

-Dilution is possible only via collection of separate containers containing smaller volumes.  read more.
Elementary California Water Basics - Getting an Education from the Foundation
Illustration
Californians pride themselves on being water savvy—the Golden State’s vast infrastructure of reservoirs and aqueducts has supported its agricultural industry and booming population for decades. But as global climate change continues to bake the state, California needs massive changes to its water conservation models—starting with better water education.

The Water Education Foundation, a nonprofit established in 1977, instructs Californians about sustainability and conservation. The Foundation offers many resources including news articles and print magazines, a water encyclopedia, workshop and scholastic programs, educational content for K-12 teachers, maps and publications, and virtual water tours. Policymakers, stakeholders, and government agencies collaborate in Foundation workshops, conferences, and tours to address water management issues and solutions. The Foundation stresses a holistic and proactive approach towards water conservation. Experts predict California will grow increasingly hot and dry over the next couple of decades, and Californians need to take proactive steps towards mitigating our growing water crisis... read more.
Does La Niña Have Other Plans for So Cal's Typical Wet Winter?
Illustration
Californians faced some of the worst fires in recorded history this year thanks to a lack of rain, and the upcoming storm season may not relieve the State’s unusually dry condition. NOAA, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, recently confirmed an ongoing La Niña event expected to last into the winter. The event, a part of the El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO) phenomenon, influences global oceanic temperatures and rainfall. A La Niña winter, combined with the effects of global climate change, threatens to push California into another year of drought.

ENSO phenomena are nothing new; the name comes from the 1600s when fishermen noticed that the Pacific Ocean became unusually warm around December. They dubbed the phenomenon “El Niño” which means both “the little boy” and “Christ child.” Scientists now define El Niño as a part of ENSO, a single ocean-atmosphere phenomenon with three phases: El Niño, La Niña, and neutral. . read more
In Case You Missed It:
From the Ashes: Wildfire Effects on Water Quality (read more)

From the TOP to Bottom: TOP Assay Not Likely to Close Mass Balance to Total PFAS (read more)

And the 2020 Survey Says... (read more)

Life in Plastic: Determining Microplastics in Drinking Water (read more)

Safe Recycled water in a Petri Dish? (read more)

The Path Out of Coronavirus Lockdown? Follow the Wastewater (read more)

Lab Accreditation: ELAP Publishes Proposed Regulations (read more)

EPA Announces New Method to Test for Additional PFAS in Drinking Water (read more)
Holiday Reminder
Babcock Labs will be closed Thursday, November 26th and Friday, November 27th in observance of Thanksgiving (Contact Project Manager)
Did you know?
Babcock Labs is CA ELAP accredited to perform all 18 analytes for EPA Method 537.1 and all 38 analytes under the DoD QSM 5.3. Also offered at Babcock Labs is EPA Method 533 for short-chain PFAs analytes. ( learn more)
Laboratory Services
Quick Links
Contact Us
Scott Dallas
Business Development Associate
951-653-3351 x 162

Cathy Iijima
Client Relations Manager
951-653-3351 x 135
Please note that Babcock Labs strictly adheres to sample acceptance criteria, pursuant to Standard Methods and regulatory requirements.

UCMR 4 is underway.
We can help!
We're Hiring!
Do you know someone who would be interested in a STEM career at an Employee-Owned Top Workplace in the IE?
Industry Events
November

December

January
*Look for us! Babcock Labs is attending this event.
**Babcock Labs is attending and sponsoring/speaking at this event.
***Welcome! Babcock Labs is hosting this event.
info@babcocklabs.com Facebook Twitter Linked In
You are subscribed as test@example.com.
This message was sent from
Copyright © 2020 Babcock Laboratories, Inc., All rights reserved.

 

August 2020 | Volume 10 | Issue 6

View this email in your browser.

ESB | Babcock Laboratories, Inc. | The Standard of Excellence for Over 100 Years
From TOP to Bottom: TOP Assay Not Likely to Close Mass Balance on Total PFAS
BY ALLISON MACKENZIE, CEO
by Allison Mackenzie, CEO Testing for polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) is increasing nationwide as multiple states launch investigations into PFAS contaminated areas. But while a handful of these “forever chemicals” are tested and starting to be regulated, the vast majority are not. Much of the difficulty lies in the testing itself; PFAS constitute an extensive class of mostly unknown compounds and are measured in trace amounts, usually parts per trillion. For the last eight years, scientists have used the TOP assay (total oxidizable precursors assay) to determine total PFAS concentrations in environmental matrices. But according to a study released in 2019, the TOP assay may well be underestimating total PFAS contamination and providing a false sense of assurance.

Historically, PFAS testing targeted only certain compounds with documented adverse health effects. Over the last decade concern has grown about the environmental and health impacts of these ubiquitous but understudied chemicals. Currently, there are an estimated 3,000 to 5,000 PFAS substances most of which are relatively unknown. This lack of information makes testing for individual PFAS impractical. However, knowing the total concentration of PFAS in a sample can be useful; the total PFAS amount may illustrate where high concentrations are found, how PFAS infiltrate food systems, and possible points of contamination.

The TOP assay was developed in an attempt to close the data gap of unknown PFAS by assessing total PFAS contamination. The method utilizes oxidization to indirectly measure unknown PFAS that exist in the environment. These unknown PFAS compounds, called “precursors,” naturally degrade into... read more.
From the Ashes: Wildfire Effects on Water Quality
Once again, lower than average winter rainfall has paired with exceptionally hot summer months and set California up for a disastrous wildfire season with the potential to surpass that of the historic 2018 fire season. Gov. Gavin Newsom announced on Monday that fires had burned through more than 1.4 million acres so far in 2020. That’s already well ahead of this time in 2019, when Cal Fire reports just shy of 28,060 acres burned.

It is obvious that these fires are a threat to people, wildlife, structures, and our heroic firefighters, but what is less obvious is the danger they pose to our water quality.

California’s forests supply more than 60 percent of the State’s water. According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), “wildfires can compromise water quality both during active burning and for months and years after the fire has been contained.” While the fire is raging, ash can settle on lakes and reservoirs used for drinking water supplies. But even after the fire is extinguished, storms can further contaminate water supplies ...read more.
And the 2020 Survey Says…
Illustration
Results are in from the 2020 client satisfaction survey, and Babcock Labs is proud to report an overall service rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars. We are pleased and grateful for the client participation, thoughtful feedback, and vote of confidence in our services.

In the 2020 survey, we asked clients to rate their interactions with Babcock’s staff, their experience with Babcock’s services, and their overall satisfaction with the lab. Our service teams received excellent reviews with special recognition going to our field services team, sample receiving and project management. “Very friendly and helpful,” “extremely knowledgeable,” and “always professional” were just a few of the accolades included in client responses.

When asked to assess Babcock’s reliability, the overwhelming majority of respondents agreed that they can rely on Babcock to provide...read more
In Case You Missed It:
Going Back to School or the Office? Maybe Time for a Different Type of Test (read more)

PFAS: It's Not Just In The Water (read more)

Wet Wipes Have More Than One Dirty Secret (read more)

Life in Plastic: Determining Microplastics in Drinking Water (read more)

The Path Out of Coronavirus Lockdown? Follow the Wastewater (read more)

Lab Accreditation: ELAP Publishes Proposed Regulations (read more)

EPA Announces New Method to Test for Additional PFAS in Drinking Water (read more)
Holiday Reminder
Babcock Labs will be closed Monday September 7th in observance of Labor Day (Contact Project Manager)
Did you know?
Babcock Labs is CA ELAP accredited to perform all 18 analytes for EPA Method 537.1 and all 38 analytes under the DoD QSM 5.3. Also offered at Babcock Labs is EPA Method 533 for short-chain PFAs analytes. ( learn more)
Laboratory Services
Quick Links
Contact Us
Scott Dallas
Business Development Associate
951-653-3351 x 162

Cathy Iijima
Client Relations Manager
951-653-3351 x 135
Please note that Babcock Labs strictly adheres to sample acceptance criteria, pursuant to Standard Methods and regulatory requirements.
We're Hiring!
Do you know someone who would be interested in a STEM career at an Employee-Owned Top Workplace in the IE?
Industry Events

September

October
*Look for us! Babcock Labs is attending this event.
**Babcock Labs is attending and sponsoring/speaking at this event.
***Welcome! Babcock Labs is hosting this event.
info@babcocklabs.com Facebook Twitter Linked In
You are subscribed as test@example.com.
This message was sent from
Copyright © 2020 Babcock Laboratories, Inc., All rights reserved.

 

July 2020 | Volume 10 | Issue 5
ESB | Babcock Laboratories, Inc. | The Standard of Excellence for Over 100 Years
 
PFAS: It's Not Just in the Water
BY ALLISON MACKENZIE, CEO
by Allison Mackenzie, CEO In response to widespread contamination, the EPA and FDA have released testing methods that identify 29 PFAS compounds in water and 16 PFAS compounds in food The EPA also released a 2020 update of its PFAS Action Plan that details the guidelines for testing PFAS in drinking water, recommendations for cleaning up contaminated groundwater, and the allocation of around 14.9 million dollars towards researching PFAS in agriculture, waste, and the environment.

Local agencies, such as the California Water Board, have created additional safety measures for PFAS in drinking water. The Board lowered the response and notification levels for PFAS, specifically PFOS and PFOA, to minimize the public’s health risk. California has further launched a multi-phase PFAS investigation that collects samples from airports, landfills, public water systems, manufacturing facilities, and WWTP.

While most government regulations address PFAS water contamination, new research has stressed the importance of PFAS testing throughout aquatic and terrestrial food chains. The biomagnification effect of some PFAS compounds remains a health risk to both animal and human life. Moreover, as short-chain PFAS, dubbed “Gen-X” chemicals, replace long-chained and precursor PFAS in industrial manufacturing, further testing of water, soil, sediment, and biota is needed to accurately assess how perfluorinated compounds impact the food chain and... read more.
 
Going Back to School or the Office?
Maybe Time for A Different Type of Test
Illustration
After months of lockdown, some Californians are returning to their offices, restaurants, schools and gyms. But as we reach to turn on the tap or the shower, a new hazard may be lurking in the stagnant water of our abandoned plumbing—Legionella.

First discovered in 1976, Legionella flourishes in man-made water systems like hot water tanks and heaters, showers, sinks, cooling towers, hot tubs, and decorative water features. When aerosolized droplets of contaminated water are inhaled, the bacteria can cause a type of deadly pneumonia called Legionnaires Disease. According to the CDC Toolkit for managing Legionella, proper prevention and maintenance are vital to control outbreaks, but the long shutdown compromised many water systems in commercial buildings.

Before Covid-19 hit, buildings kept chlorinated water flowing through their plumbing and maintained water temperatures too hot or cold for bacteria to grow. But after months of lockdown, unused water systems now provide Legionella with the perfect conditions to flourish...read more.
     
Are You Prepared for PFAS Monitoring?
Join a Babcock PFAS PEP Rally and Find Out
Illustration
Would you like to learn more about the practical implications of the recent Board Orders for PFAS monitoring? How to sample correctly without introducing errors? Which lab methods should be used for liquids and biosolids? What to expect from the data?

As many of our clients know, Babcock has been providing the environmental community with education through Babcock TEAM events for over ten years. Our team of experts has provided numerous presentations and training classes in PFAS methods and sampling at our conference facility. Unfortunately, the typical in-person presentations cannot be held this year so we are pleased to announce the launch of the Babcock PEP Rally!

If you are interested in joining us for a PEP (PFAS Environmental Presentation) Rally, please email your contact information to PFAS@babcocklabs.com
     
In Case You Missed It:
Wet Wipes Have More Than One Dirty Secret (read more)

Life in Plastic: Determining Microplastics in Drinking Water (read more)

Safe Recycled water in a Petri Dish? (read more)

The Path Out of Coronavirus Lockdown? Follow the Wastewater  (read more)

Lab Accreditation: ELAP Publishes Proposed Regulations (read more)

EPA Announces New Method to Test for Additional PFAS in Drinking Water (read more)
Holiday Reminder
     
Babcock Labs will be closed Monday September 7th in observance of Labor Day (Contact Project Manager)
     
Did you know?
     
Babcock Labs is CA ELAP accredited to perform all 18 analytes for EPA Method 537.1 and all 38 analytes under the DoD QSM 5.3. Also offered at Babcock Labs is EPA Method 533 for short-chain PFAs analytes. ( learn more)
     
Laboratory Services
     
     
Quick Links
     
     
Contact Us
     
Scott Dallas
Business Development Associate
951-653-3351 x 162

Cathy Iijima
Client Relations Manager
951-653-3351 x 135
     
Please note that Babcock Labs strictly adheres to sample acceptance criteria, pursuant to Standard Methods and regulatory requirements.

UCMR 4 is underway.
We can help!
     
We're Hiring!
     
Do you know someone who would be interested in a STEM career at an Employee-Owned Top Workplace in the IE?
 
Industry Events

August
14       Southern California Water Conference (Virtual)

September
24      WEF 2020 Water Summit  -Sacramento, CA

October
 
*Look for us! Babcock Labs is attending this event.
**Babcock Labs is attending and sponsoring/speaking at this event.
***Welcome! Babcock Labs is hosting this event.
info@babcocklabs.com Facebook Twitter Linked In
You are subscribed as test@example.com.
This message was sent from
Copyright © 2020 Babcock Laboratories, Inc., All rights reserved.
 
                                                           
June 2020 | Volume 10 | Issue 4
View this email in your browser.

ESB | Babcock Laboratories, Inc. | The Standard of Excellence for Over 100 Years
The Next Phase in California's Investigation of PFAS
A Year and a Pandemic Later, What is the Status of the California Phased Investigation of PFAS?
BY ALLISON MACKENZIE, CEO
Allison Mackenzie, CEO

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are turning up across the Golden State. The State Water Board released preliminary data in March 2020 which suggests around half of the 600 public water supply wells near landfills, military installations, and airports have detections of PFOA, PFOS, or other PFAS. Unsurprisingly, there have been an even higher number of detections of PFAS from monitoring well, leachate, and soil sampling at airports and landfills themselves. Given the historical uses of PFAS in Anti-Film Forming Foam (AFFF) to smother aviation fires and their use in consumer products fated to enter landfills, PFAS detection was to be expected and the reason for prioritizing those sources for investigation first. Now that California is at, or nearing , the end of Phase I and II of the data collection under the Board's PFAS Phased Investigation Plan, there are strong indications that Phase III is imminent.

The following is a brief recap of the original plan and what we can likely expect in the coming months. When the Division of Drinking Water (DDW) and the Division of Water Quality (DWQ) announced the Board’s phased approach in March 2019, the plans included an aggressive timeline. Not much has changed with regard to the Phase I and II plans to collect detection data and, as reported above, some preliminary results have already been complied. The quarterly monitoring of at-risk water supply wells came to an end in March 2020, and completion of the landfill PFAS testing during routine monitoring should result in all of that data being available soon. Site-specific questionnaires and work plans for the Chrome Plating industry were all due by March 31, 2020, following an extension from the October 2019 deadline.

Which brings us to the major change to the Board’s PFAS investigation: the timeline. Originally, Phase III—set to include wastewater treatment and pretreatment facilities ... read more.
Wet Wipes Have More Than One Dirty Secret
Illustration
From babies to kitchen counters, we’re all familiar with the dirty deeds carried out by sanitary wet wipes. When it comes to wreaking havoc on our sewer infrastructure, however, wet wipes have more than one dirty secret.

Most of those involved in sanitation agencies and publicly owned treatment works (POTWs) already know the first secret: the vast majority of “flushable” wipes are not flushable at all. The second little appreciated attribute of wipes, however, is that they contribute to microplastics pollution. It is this second fact that makes wet wipes so problematic for our sewer systems and, ultimately, our environment.

A recent CWEA/CASA webinar shared the latest facts on wipes and the preliminary findings of a CASA-sponsored study conducted by ten member agencies to understand and document the fate of various disposable wipes—flushable and not flushable ... read more.
PHASE III PFAS Investigation Accreditation Status
PFAS Determination in Non-Potable Liquids & Biosolids for Phase III
Illustration
In anticipation of Phase II and III of the Board PFAS investigation, Babcock Laboratories, Inc. added Department of Defense (DOD) accreditation for PFAS in 2019. This accreditation requires the laboratory to conduct PFAS analyses and data generation in accordance with rigorous DoD Quality Systems Manual (DoD QSM)- version 5.1 or newer Table B-15 criteria. Babcock Labs also carries California ELAP accreditation for PFAS in drinking water via EPA 537.1 and for non-potable liquids via the DoD QSM protocols, and is accredited for PFAS through ORELAP for non-potable liquids and solids. EPA Method 537.1 for drinking water includes 18 target analytes, and the non-potable liquid and solid accreditations include those target analytes required under CA Phase II and III. For more information about how we can help your agency or project comply with PFAS testing requirement, please contact our PFAS team.


IN CASE YOU MISSED IT:
Life in Plastic: Determining Microplastics in Drinking Water (read more)

Safe Recycled water in a Petri Dish? (read more)

The Path Out of Coronavirus Lockdown? Follow the Wastewater (read more)

Lab Accreditation: ELAP Publishes Proposed Regulations (read more)

EPA Announces New Method to Test for Additional PFAS in Drinking Water (read more)

Babcock Labs is a 2019 Top Workplace (read more)

State and Federal PFAS Updates (read more)

EPA Awards Babcock Labs UCMR 4 Small Systems Contract (read more)
Holiday Reminder
Babcock Labs will be closed Friday July 3rd, in observance of Independence Day (Contact Project Manager)
Did you know?
Babcock Labs is CA ELAP accredited to perform all 18 analytes for EPA Method 537.1 and all 38 analytes under the DoD QSM 5.3. Also offered at Babcock Labs is EPA Method 533 for short-chain PFAs analytes. ( learn more)
Laboratory Services
Quick Links
Contact Us
Scott Dallas
Business Development Associate
951-653-3351 x 162

Cathy Iijima
Client Relations Manager
951-653-3351 x 135
Please note that Babcock Labs strictly adheres to sample acceptance criteria, pursuant to Standard Methods and regulatory requirements.

UCMR 4 is underway.
We can help!
We're Hiring!
Do you know someone who would be interested in a STEM career at an Employee-Owned Top Workplace in the IE?
Industry Events

July

August
*Look for us! Babcock Labs is attending this event.
**Babcock Labs is attending and sponsoring/speaking at this event.
***Welcome! Babcock Labs is hosting this event.
info@babcocklabs.com Facebook Twitter Linked In
IMPORTANT NOTICE ABOUT UNSUBSCRIBING:
Please note that if you completely unsubscribe from our customer service database, you may not be able to receive ANY future communication from Babcock Labs, including important reporting and billing information! If you no longer wish to receive our monthly newsletter, please manage your subscription so that you only receive communication related to your needs and interests.
Thank you for your attention to this matter.
You are subscribed as test@example.com.
This message was sent from
Copyright © 2020 Babcock Laboratories, Inc., All rights reserved.

 

Your May 2020 Industry Update from Babcock Labs
View this email in your browser
May 2020 | Volume 10 | Issue 3

Life in Plastic: Determining Microplastics in Drinking Water

by Allison Mackenzie, CEO

The 90s party-favorite song by Aqua would have you believe life in plastic is fantastic. While this may be Barbie’s reality, plastic has crept into almost every facet of our life—including our drinking water—and as scientists are beginning to discover, that’s not a good thing. 

Since John Wesley Hyatt first combined cotton cellulose and camphor to create an ivory substitute to make billiard balls, the world has become reliant upon the synthetic polymers commonly called plastics. Hyatt’s discovery in 1869 heralded a modern age full of chemically manufactured plastics and polymer materials that substitute for natural materials such as cotton, rubber, and wood. The huge societal benefits gained through the invention and use of plastics in everyday life have come at a cost as discarded plastic materials have polluted the environment.  Increasingly, concerned citizens wonder about the long-term consequences of these man-made materials and scientists have turned their attention to understanding the many different effects plastic waste may have on public health and the environment.

One microcosm of this public health concern has been the presence of microplastics in the environment, and the potential for these tiny particles to make their way into our food and water. ... read more.

Clean Water is Essential

The current crisis caused by the novel coronavirus and resulting COVID-19 pandemic has reminded us all how much we rely on essential service workers. The brave healthcare workers; law enforcement and first responders; food and agriculture workers; transportation and distribution system workers; energy, petroleum, and natural gas workers; communications and IT workers; community and government workers; and critical manufacturing workers all deserve our recognition and sincere gratitude.

Perhaps one of the most invisible but undeniably essential group of workers includes the individuals making sure our faucets are flowing with clean water and our waste is getting properly treated when we brush or flush. 

Babcock Laboratories, Inc. is proud to support public utilities, public works, and sanitation workers by .. read more. 

Environmental Resources: Coronavirus Web Sites

During this time of our "new normal" we have listed below a few web pages with information  and resources regarding the Coronavirus in the environmental sector. 

ACWA COVID-19 Resources
AWWA Coronavirus Resource Tools
CASA COVID-19
CWEA Water News Coronavirus Safety

 

In Case You Missed It:

Safe Recycled water in a Petri Dish? (read more)

The Path Out of Coronavirus Lockdown? Follow the Wastewater (read more)

Babcock Labs Now Accredited for PFAS Determinations in Non-Potable Water and Solids (read more)

Babcock Labs Opens Satellite Facility in Imperial Valley (read more)

California Sets New Response Levels for PFOA, PFOS (read more)

EPA Announces New Method to Test for Additional PFAS in Drinking Water (read more)

Babcock Labs is a 2019 Top Workplace (read more)

State and Federal PFAS Updates (read more)

Babcock Labs Now Women-Owned ESOP! (read more)

EPA Awards Babcock Labs UCMR 4 Small Systems Contract (read more)

Holiday Reminder

Babcock Labs will be closed Friday July 3rd, in observance of Independence Day (contact Project Manager)
 

Did you know?

Babcock Labs is CA ELAP accredited to perform all 18 analytes for EPA Method 537.1 and all 38 analytes under the DoD QSM 5.3. Also offered at Babcock Labs is EPA Method 533 for short-chain PFAs analytes. (learn more)
Laboratory Services
Drinking Water Analysis
Wastewater Analysis
Groundwater Analysis
Stormwater Analysis
Hazardous Waste & Soils Analysis
Field Services 
Data Deliverables
Emergency Services
Special Projects 
 
Quick Links
Our Mission, Vision, and Goals
Online Results 
Technical Trainings & Seminars
Current Topics
Certifications
Request a Quote
Babcock Blog
 
Contact Us
Cathy Iijima 
Client Relations Manager 
951-653-3351 x 135
ciijima@babcocklabs.com 

Scott Dallas 
Business Development Associate
951-653-3351 x 162
sdallas@babcocklabs.com

Contact my Project Manager
 

Please note that Babcock Labs strictly adheres to sample acceptance criteria, pursuant to Standard Methods and regulatory requirements. 
Learn more  

UCMR 4 is underway.
We can help! 
Learn more


We're Hiring! 

Do you know someone who would be interested in a STEM career at an Employee-Owned Top Workplace in the IE?
Learn More
 

Industry Events

View our upcoming Seminars & Technical Training page 

June
10-11  Groundwater Resources Assoc.- 3rd Annual GSA Summit Virtual Conference
24-25  WateReuse California Virtual Conference 

July
28-31  ACWA 2020 Summer Conference & Exhibition - Monterey, CA

August
3-21    National Environmental Monitoring Virtual Conference 
12-14  CASA Annual Conference (Virtual)
14       San Bernardino Water County Water Conference - Ontario, CA
 
*Look for us! Babcock Labs is attending this event.
**Babcock Labs is attending and sponsoring/speaking at this event.
***Welcome! Babcock Labs is hosting this event.
Copyright © 2020 Babcock Laboratories, Inc., All rights reserved.
IMPORTANT NOTICE ABOUT UNSUBSCRIBING:
Please note that if you completely unsubscribe from our customer service database, you may not be able to receive ANY future communication from Babcock Labs, including important reporting and billing information! If you no longer wish to receive our monthly newsletter, please manage your subscription so that you only receive communication related to your needs and interests.
Thank you for your attention to this matter.   

 

Your April 2020 Industry Update from Babcock Labs
View this email in your browser
April 2020 | Volume 10 | Issue 2

The Path Out of Coronavirus Lockdown?
Follow the Wastewater

by Allison Mackenzie, CEO

As the United State passes the one million mark for documented cases of Covid-19, one of the most frustrating aspects of the current pandemic is that identification and extent of community outbreaks is tied to the number of test kits available. Due to inadequate test kit supplies, available testing has been limited to individuals already experiencing symptoms. This, in turn, has limited the number of identified cases to the number of kits. It is now suspected that in the California Bay Area, the virus may have been circulating in the population more than a month before health officials began looking for it (LA Times, April 11, 2020).

Finding a quick way to locate and identify disease outbreaks before they manifest in the community has researchers at several universities focusing their attention on a surprising yet familiar matrix—wastewater. Interest in the new field of wastewater-based epidemiology (WBE) has gained traction and offers a promising way to identify coronavirus using wastewater. “WBE holds the promise of near real-time monitoring of disease outbreaks,” according to an April 23, 2020 news release from Arizona State University.

Researchers at Stanford and the University of Michigan appear to agree. In a news release from U of M, Stanford Professor of Environmental Engineering, Alexandria Boehm, is quoted as saying, “Our hope is that we can detect an uptick in cases with this tool faster than we can through clinical testing. We don’t know that for sure but that’s the hypothesis.”

And there’s good reason Boehm and other scientists believe wastewater will prove effective, because it turns out that ... read more.

Safe Recycled Water in a Petri Dish?

The Southern California Coastal Water Research Project (SCCWRP) and the Orange County Sanitation District recently announced that as of December 2019 they had completed the first year-long phase of monitoring the effect of constituents of emerging concern (CECs) in treated waste water effluents. The research included the use of bioanalytical screenings, specifically bioassays that tested for the presence of bioactive contaminants within water samples.

What makes bioanalytical screenings of interest are their sophisticated yet targeted approach to screening recycled water. Rather than requiring laboratory professionals to test for each individual contaminant to determine presence and approximate risk, bioassays screen for total bioactivity for a given pathway or mode of action, allowing analysts to characterize potential cumulative effects on the organisms without necessarily needing to know all the components of the samples. They are a meaningful counterpart to common testing methods, as they account for the fact that contaminants often work together additively, synergistically, or antagonistically to produce an effect that is harmful to ... read more. 

Lab Accreditation: State Board to Consider Proposed ELAP Regulations

On May 5th the State Water Resources Control Board will consider a resolution to adopt the proposed Environmental Laboratory Accreditation Program (ELAP) regulations. Board action on ELAP regulations will be the culmination of a long and arduous journey to reform and improve environmental lab regulation, and ultimately the reliability of environmental data produced in the Golden State.

Babcock would like to recognize and applaud the outstanding work of the Division of Drinking Water Lab Accreditation Program staff and the contributions of the laboratory community.

For more information please see the October article Lab Accreditation: ELAP Publishes Proposed Regulations.

In Case You Missed It:

Babcock Labs Now Accredited for PFAS Determinations in Non-Potable Water and Solids (read more)

Babcock Labs Opens Satellite Facility in Imperial Valley (read more)

California Sets New Response Levels for PFOA, PFOS (read more)

EPA Announces New Method to Test for Additional PFAS in Drinking Water (read more)

Babcock Labs is a 2019 Top Workplace (read more)

State and Federal PFAS Updates (read more)

Babcock Labs Now Women-Owned ESOP! (read more)

EPA Awards Babcock Labs UCMR 4 Small Systems Contract (read more)

Holiday Reminder

Babcock Labs will be closed Monday May 25th, in observance of Memorial Day (contact Project Manager)
 

Did you know?

Babcock Labs is CA ELAP accredited to perform all 18 analytes for EPA Method 537.1 and all 38 analytes under the DoD QSM 5.3. Also offered at Babcock Labs is EPA Method 533 for short-chain PFAs analytes. (learn more)
Laboratory Services
Drinking Water Analysis
Wastewater Analysis
Groundwater Analysis
Stormwater Analysis
Hazardous Waste & Soils Analysis
Field Services 
Data Deliverables
Emergency Services
Special Projects 
 
Quick Links
Our Mission, Vision, and Goals
Online Results 
Technical Trainings & Seminars
Current Topics
Certifications
Request a Quote
Babcock Blog
 
Contact Us
Cathy Iijima 
Client Relations Manager 
951-653-3351 x 135
ciijima@babcocklabs.com 

Scott Dallas 
Business Development Associate
951-653-3351 x 162
sdallas@babcocklabs.com

Contact my Project Manager
 

Please note that Babcock Labs strictly adheres to sample acceptance criteria, pursuant to Standard Methods and regulatory requirements. 
Learn more  

UCMR 4 is underway.
We can help! 
Learn more


We're Hiring! 

Do you know someone who would be interested in a STEM career at an Employee-Owned Top Workplace in the IE?
Learn More
 

Industry Events

View our upcoming Seminars & Technical Training page 

June
10-11  Groundwater Resources Assoc.- 3rd Annual GSA Summit Virtual Conference
24-25  WateReuse California Virtual Conference 

July
28-31  ACWA 2020 Summer Conference & Exhibition - Monterey, CA

August
3-21    National Environmental Monitoring Virtual Conference 
11-13  Tri-State Seminar - Las Vegas, NV
14       San Bernardino Water County Water Conference - Ontario, CA
 
*Look for us! Babcock Labs is attending this event.
**Babcock Labs is attending and sponsoring/speaking at this event.
***Welcome! Babcock Labs is hosting this event.rd
Copyright © 2020 Babcock Laboratories, Inc., All rights reserved.
IMPORTANT NOTICE ABOUT UNSUBSCRIBING:
Please note that if you completely unsubscribe from our customer service database, you may not be able to receive ANY future communication from Babcock Labs, including important reporting and billing information! If you no longer wish to receive our monthly newsletter, please manage your subscription so that you only receive communication related to your needs and interests.
Thank you for your attention to this matter.   

 

Your January 2020 Industry Update from Babcock Labs
View this email in your browser
January 2020 | Volume 10 | Issue 1

Babcock Labs is DoD AND California Accredited:

PFAS Determinations in Non-Potable Water & Solids

by Allison Mackenzie, CEO

On December 2, 2019, Babcock Laboratories, Inc. joined an elite group of laboratories in California accredited to analyze all PFAs in accordance with Department of Defense Quality Systems Manual (DoD QSM - version 5.1 or newer). On January 9th the CA Environmental Laboratory Accreditation Program (CA ELAP) added PFAS to Babcock Labs’ accreditation for analysis of Semi-volatile Organic Constituents in non-potable water—Field of Testing (FOT) 111. Babcock became one of a handful of laboratories in the State with the proper CA ELAP accreditation for PFAS required for all State regulatory work.

The significance of this accreditation stems, in part, from the State Water Resources Control Board’s Chrome Plater Investigative Order (WQ 2019-0045-DWQ). The order—which affects chrome plating facilities that have used or stored substances likely containing per- and polyfluoroalkyl (PFAS)—is part of a statewide effort to evaluate the concentration and impact of PFAS in groundwater and surface water. 

According to the investigative order, the reporting analytical laboratory must be accredited by the California Environmental Laboratory Accreditation Program (ELAP) to perform the analytical method for PFAS compliant with DoD QSM (Table B-15; version 5.1 or later). The laboratory must have the capacity to quantify the target PFAS analytes listed in the order, and must be... read more.

New Service Center:
Babcock Labs Opens Satellite Facility in Imperial Valley

Babcock Laboratories, Inc. is pleased to announce the launch of its new service center in the Imperial Valley. The satellite facility will serve as a drop-off location for all analyses in Imperial County. Samples will be conveyed to the main laboratory in Riverside for analysis and reporting.

In order to meet all method regulatory holding times the new service center will operate on a limited basis, accepting bacteriological, nitrate-nitrite, and General Physical (COT) samples on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays before noon and, for analyses with longer holding times, Monday through Thursday. The service center is located at 104 S. 8th St., Brawley, CA 92227 and the hours are Mon-Thurs. 8am-2pm. Babcock Field Department services may also ... read more. 

Trending Now: WOTUS Protections Roll Back

While today’s political climate is arguably the most divisive in history, we believe those in the water industry agree on the importance of providing consumers with safe, clean drinking water. This month the federal administration announced regulation revisions that considerably weaken clean water protections. As the LA Times reports: 

“Defying environmentalists and public health advocates, the Trump administration on Thursday announced the replacement of Obama-era water protections with a significantly weaker set of regulations that lifts limits on how much pollution can be dumped into small streams and wetlands.

The changes to the Clean Water Act’s protections are expected to hit California and other Western states especially hard.

Federal data suggest 81% of streams in the Southwest would lose long-held protections, including tributaries to major waterways that millions of people rely on for drinking water.

Andrew Wheeler, the administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, defended the new rule when he announced…” read more.

In Case You Missed It:


EPA Announces New Method to Test for Additional PFAS in Drinking Water (read more)

Babcock Labs is a 2019 Top Workplace (read more)

PFAS in CA: Phase I Results (read more)

Water News: PPIC Policy Update (read more)

Lab Accreditation: ELAP Publishes Proposed Regulations (read more)

California Lowers Notification Levels for PFOA, PFOS (read more)

State and Federal PFAS Updates (read more)

Babcock Labs Now Women-Owned ESOP! (read more)

EPA Awards Babcock Labs UCMR 4 Small Systems Contract (read more)

Holiday Reminder

Babcock Labs will be closed Monday February 17th, in observance of President's Day (contact Project Manager)
 

Did you know?

Babcock Labs is CA ELAP accredited to perform all 18 analytes for EPA Method 537.1 and all 38 analytes under the DoD QSM 5.3. Also offered at Babcock Labs is EPA Method 533 for short-chain PFAs analytes. (learn more)
Laboratory Services
Drinking Water Analysis
Wastewater Analysis
Groundwater Analysis
Stormwater Analysis
Hazardous Waste & Soils Analysis
Field Services 
Data Deliverables
Emergency Services
Special Projects 
 
Quick Links
Our Mission, Vision, and Goals
Online Results 
Technical Trainings & Seminars
Current Topics
Certifications
Request a Quote
Babcock Blog
 
Contact Us
Roan McRae 
Director of Business Development 
951-490-1479
rmcrae@babcocklabs.com 

Scott Dallas 
Business Development Associate
951-653-3351 x 162
sdallas@babcocklabs.com

Contact my Project Manager
 

Please note that Babcock Labs strictly adheres to sample acceptance criteria, pursuant to Standard Methods and regulatory requirements. 
Learn more  

UCMR 4 is underway.
We can help! 
Learn more


We're Hiring!  

Do you know someone who would be interested in a STEM career at an Employee-Owned Top Workplace in the IE?
Learn More
 

Industry Events

View our upcoming Seminars & Technical Training page 

February
6-7   CalDesal 8th Annual Conference - Santa Barbara, CA
19-20   AGWA - AGWT Annual Groundwater Conference - Ontario, CA **
19-21 Urban Water Institute Spring Water Conference - Palm Springs, CA
25-27   ACWA DC 2020 - Washington D.C.

March
15-17  WateReuse California Annual Conference - San Francisco, CA
16-19  AEHS International Conference on Soil, Water, Energy and Air - San Diego, CA
31-4/3  CWEA and NWEA Annual Conference - Reno, NV
 
*Look for us! Babcock Labs is attending this event.
**Babcock Labs is attending and sponsoring/speaking at this event.
***Welcome! Babcock Labs is hosting this event.
Copyright © 2020 Babcock Laboratories, Inc., All rights reserved.
IMPORTANT NOTICE ABOUT UNSUBSCRIBING:
Please note that if you completely unsubscribe from our customer service database, you may not be able to receive ANY future communication from Babcock Labs, including important reporting and billing information! If you no longer wish to receive our monthly newsletter, please manage your subscription so that you only receive communication related to your needs and interests.
Thank you for your attention to this matter.   

 

*Your October 2019 Industry Update from Babcock Labs*
View this email in your browser
October 2019 | Volume 9 | Issue 9

Lab Accreditation:

ELAP Publishes Proposed Regulations

by Allison Mackenzie, CEO

On October 11th, 2019, the California Environmental Laboratory Accreditation Program (ELAP) published notice of its proposed regulations concerning the accreditation of environmental laboratories. The proposed regulations make changes to California’s state laboratory accreditation program and affect the requirements that the environmental testing laboratories must meet to analyze environmental samples for regulatory purposes in California. ELAP has called for the incorporation of the 2016 TNI Standard with two California-specific exceptions.

The Initial Statement of Reasons for ELAP’s proposed regulations cited findings from the external review conducted by the Expert Review Panel (ERP), as well as internal reviews of the program by executive management at the State Water Board. The 2015 findings included inadequate accreditation standards, organizational issues, late and ineffective assessments, a lack of financial resources, and lack of enforcement constituted the major program deficiencies. Although great strides have been made in most areas since the reorganization of ELAP, the overarching problem plaguing ELAP continues to be the “woefully outdated and inadequate requirements in the current regulations.” For this reason, ELAP has proposed regulations that will best address existing obscurities, the inconsistency of lab assessments, and the general lack of trust in analytical data generated by ELAP accredited labs as a result of the program’s past deficiencies.

ELAP engaged in a multi-year, stakeholder-involved process to evaluate the accreditation standard options and select the best accreditation standard for the program. The State Water Board considered two alternative accreditation standards to incorporate into the proposed regulations... read more.

PFAS in CA: Phase I Results

This month the State Water Resources Control Board posted the first results of testing for perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS) for nearly 600 drinking water supply wells. This testing was performed as part of a comprehensive effort to assess the presence of harmful per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS)—coined “forever chemicals—in water systems and groundwater statewide.

In this initial phase of the State’s Phased Investigation Approach, public water systems were ordered to sample drinking water supply wells near landfills or airports, locations where these chemicals are believed to be especially prevalent. They were also ordered to test wells near sites where the contaminants had been found previously during the third round of the EPA’s Unregulated Contaminant Monitoring Rule (UCMR 3).

An analysis by the Los Angeles Times on the recently released results found that PFOA and PFOS were detected... read more. 

Water News: PPIC Policy Update

Below is a water policy update from the Public Policy Institute of California:

It’s been an eventful year for California water policy. A milestone law to address the state’s drinking water challenges, which was signed by Governor Newsom earlier this year, established a $1.3 billion Safe and Affordable Drinking Water Fund. In line with its broader policy focus on climate resilience, the administration is also creating a Water Resilience Portfolio Initiative, a collaborative effort by various state agencies to ensure water resilience in the face of a changing climate. A number of bills recently signed into law build on the progress made in this area. Here are some highlights:

•    Safe drinking water: Continuing the forward momentum of the drinking water fund, two new laws tackle water quality and supply, especially in rural, disadvantaged communities. Assembly Bill (AB) 508 authorizes the State Water Board to order water system consolidations in communities with domestic wells that consistently fail to provide safe drinking water. The bill also requires the board to ensure the consolidation is financially and technically possible, and to compensate for financial losses experienced by the water system that takes over the small system. And Senate Bill (SB) 513 authorizes the State Water Board to provide immediate relief for households whose wells have gone dry due to droughts or other disasters.

Groundwater recharge: A new law will also make it easier for water users to bring their groundwater basins into balance—another key to long-term water resilience. AB 658 seeks to enable... read more.

In Case You Missed It:


California Lowers Notification Levels for PFOA, PFOS (read more)

The Dog Days of Summer Proving Toxic to Pets (read more)

Water Board OKs Over $240 Million for Clean Drinking Water (read more)

Babcock Labs CEO Speaks on PFAS at Riverside County Water Task Force Meeting (read more)

State and Federal PFAS Updates (read more)

Governor Signs Safe Drinking Water Bill (read more)

Babcock Labs is a 2018 Top Workplace! (read more)

Babcock Labs Now Women-Owned ESOP! (read more)

EPA Awards Babcock Labs UCMR 4 Small Systems Contract (read more)

Holiday Reminder

Babcock Labs will be closed Thursday November 28th and Friday November 29th, in observance of the Thanksgiving Holiday (contact Project Manager)
 

Did you know?

Babcock Labs is CA ELAP accredited to perform all 18 analytes for EPA Method 537.1
 
Laboratory Services
Drinking Water Analysis
Wastewater Analysis
Groundwater Analysis
Stormwater Analysis
Hazardous Waste & Soils Analysis
Field Services 
Data Deliverables
Emergency Services
Special Projects 
 
Quick Links
Our Mission, Vision, and Goals
Online Results 
Technical Trainings & Seminars
Current Topics
Certifications
Request a Quote
Babcock Blog
 
Contact Us
Roan McRae 
Director of Business Development 
951-490-1479
rmcrae@babcocklabs.com 

Scott Dallas 
Business Development Associate
951-653-3351 x 262
sdallas@babcocklabs.com


Contact my Project Manager
 

Please note that Babcock Labs strictly adheres to sample acceptance criteria, pursuant to Standard Methods and regulatory requirements. 
Learn more  


UCMR 4 is underway.
We can help! 
Learn more
 

We're Hiring! 


Do you know someone who would be interested in a STEM career at an Employee-Owned Top Workplace in the IE? 
Learn more
 

Industry Events

View our upcoming Seminars & Technical Training page 

November
7   SCE 10th Annual Water Conference - Tulare, CA 
7   CalRMA Annual Vision Environmental Conference - Buena Park, CA 
16 Understanding Climate Change in California - Water Education Foundation - Banning, CA

December
3-6  ACWA Fall Conference - San Diego, CA ** Visit Booth #504
11-13 Colorado River Water Users Association Annual Conference - Las Vegas, NV
 
*Look for us! Babcock Labs is attending this event.
**Babcock Labs is attending and sponsoring/speaking at this event.
***Welcome! Babcock Labs is hosting this event.
Copyright © 2019 Babcock Laboratories, Inc., All rights reserved.
IMPORTANT NOTICE ABOUT UNSUBSCRIBING:
Please note that if you completely unsubscribe from our customer service database, you may not be able to receive ANY future communication from Babcock Labs, including important reporting and billing information! If you no longer wish to receive our monthly newsletter, please manage your subscription so that you only receive communication related to your needs and interests.
Thank you for your attention to this matter.   

 

Your August 2019 Industry Update from Babcock Labs
View this email in your browser
August 2019 | Volume 9 | Issue 8

PFAS Update:

California Lowers Notification Levels for PFOA, PFOS

by Allison Mackenzie, CEO

On August 23rd the State Water Resources Control Board released public notice of updated Notification Levels (NLs) for perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS) in drinking water. The Water Board’s decision to lower NLs for these “forever chemicals” was not unexpected, but did generate some concern over unintended consequences of the plan. The new NLs are set at 5.1 parts per trillion (ppt) for PFOA and 6.5 ppt for PFOS. There has been no change to the Response Levels (RLs) for these contaminants. The original media release from the Water Board is as follows:

“The State Water Resources Control Board today announced updated guidelines for local water agencies to follow in detecting and reporting the presence of perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS) in drinking water. The Board also announced it has begun the process of establishing regulatory standards for these chemicals.

The updated guidelines are part of the Board’s comprehensive effort to assess the scope of contamination of drinking water supplies by PFOA and PFOS, chemicals that have been widely used in grease and stain-resistant coatings for consumer products and in firefighting foams. Because of their potential adverse health effects, these chemicals pose an emerging risk to drinking water sources nationwide.

The updated state guidelines lower the current notification levels from 14 parts per trillion (ppt) to 5.1 ppt for PFOA and from 13 ppt to 6.5 ppt for PFOS. The guidelines are based on... read more.

Public Notice:

Dog Days of Summer Proving Toxic to Pets

Harmful algal blooms made it into mainstream news this month following the death of dogs that reportedly that came into contact with the toxic blue-green algae that commonly grows in lakes and ponds during hot summer months.

The recent canine deaths and warning signs posted near water bodies from North Carolina to California demonstrate that current conditions are ideal for rapid cyanobacterial growth.

Cyanobacteria, also known as blue-green algae, are naturally occurring components of freshwater and estuarine ecosystems. While algae and cyanobacteria provide aquatic communities with many benefits, as the old saying goes, “everything in moderation.” Under certain conditions, these organisms can grow rapidly causing “blooms.” Blooms become problematic because algae and cyanobacteria also produce harmful compounds, such as cyanotoxins and aroma compounds, which pose serious and even fatal health risks to humans and animals. When blooms threaten human and environmental health, they are referred to as harmful algal blooms (HABs).

In the case of the recent dog deaths, the dogs likely ingested these cyanotoxins by... read more. 

Clean Water Funding:

State OKs Over $240 Million for Drinking Water 

In response to Governor Newsom’s signing of SB 200 establishing the Safe and Affordable Drinking Water Fund, the State Water Resources Control Board authorized use of $241.5 Million for a program aimed at addressing California’s current drinking water quality challenges. As the Water Board’s media release states:    

“The State Water Resources Control Board today authorized spending nearly a quarter billion dollars to help local water systems provide safe, reliable drinking water to communities throughout the state and begin closing the safe drinking water gap for more than one million Californians.

“Communities across the state have struggled for far too long without access to safe drinking water,” said State Water Resources Control Board Chair E. Joaquin Esquivel. “With today’s action, we can begin to close this gap and ensure that the essential human right to safe and affordable water is provided to all Californians.”

The Board authorized spending $130 million this year and for the next 10 years from the Safe and Affordable Drinking Water Fund... read more.

In Case You Missed It:


Babcock Labs CEO Speaks on PFAS at Riverside County Water Task Force Meeting (read more)

Attend Babcock Labs' Career Fair Aug. 27 & Sept. 12 (read more) 

State and Federal PFAS Updates (read more)

Governor Signs Safe Drinking Water Bill (read more)

Preparing for PFAS Phases I & II (read more)

California's Phased Investigation Approach to PFAS (read more) 

Babcock Labs is a 2018 Top Workplace! (read more)

Babcock Labs Now Women-Owned ESOP! (read more)

EPA Awards Babcock Labs UCMR 4 Small Systems Contract (read more)

Holiday Reminder

Babcock Labs will be closed Monday, September 2nd, in observance of Labor Day (contact Project Manager)
 

Did you know?

Babcock Labs is CA ELAP accredited to perform all 18 analytes for EPA Method 537.1
 
Laboratory Services
Drinking Water Analysis
Wastewater Analysis
Groundwater Analysis
Stormwater Analysis
Hazardous Waste & Soils Analysis
Field Services 
Data Deliverables
Emergency Services
Special Projects 
 
Quick Links
Our Mission, Vision, and Goals
Online Results 
Technical Trainings & Seminars
Current Topics
Certifications
Request a Quote
Babcock Blog
 
Contact Us
Roan McRae 
Director of Business Development 
951-490-1479
rmcrae@babcocklabs.com 

Scott Dallas 
Business Development Associate
951-653-3351 x 262
sdallas@babcocklabs.com


Contact my Project Manager
 

Please note that Babcock Labs strictly adheres to sample acceptance criteria, pursuant to Standard Methods and regulatory requirements. 
Learn more  


UCMR 4 is underway.
We can help! 
Learn more
 

We're Hiring! 


Do you know someone who would be interested in a STEM career at an Employee-Owned Top Workplace in the IE? 
Learn about our Career Fair

Industry Events

View our upcoming Seminars & Technical Training page 

September
8-11 34th Annual WateReuse Symposium - San Diego, CA
12 Babcock Labs Career Fair - Riverside, CA***
17-19 GRA Western Groundwater Congress - Sacramento, CA 

October
7-9 CASQA Annual Conference - Monterey, CA
21-24 CA-NV AWWA Fall Conference - San Diego, CA
30 2019 Water Summit - Sacramento, CA 
 
*Look for us! Babcock Labs is attending this event.
**Babcock Labs is attending and sponsoring/speaking at this event.
***Welcome! Babcock Labs is hosting this event.
Copyright © 2019 Babcock Laboratories, Inc., All rights reserved.
IMPORTANT NOTICE ABOUT UNSUBSCRIBING:
Please note that if you completely unsubscribe from our customer service database, you may not be able to receive ANY future communication from Babcock Labs, including important reporting and billing information! If you no longer wish to receive our monthly newsletter, please manage your subscription so that you only receive communication related to your needs and interests.
Thank you for your attention to this matter.   

 

*|MC:SUBJECT|*
View this email in your browser
July 2019 | Volume 9 | Issue 7

In the Pipeline:

State & Federal PFAS Updates

by Allison Mackenzie, CEO

Making State and National news, there is no doubt that PFAS is top of mind for water experts and consumers alike. To provide you with an updated snapshot of the many moving parts of this complex issue, let’s take a look at what’s currently in the PFAS pipeline: 

CA State Board Plans to Lower Notification and Response Levels 
The State Water Resources Control Board’s (State Board) Division of Drinking Water (DDW) had planned to lower the Notification Levels (NLs) and Response Levels (RLs) for perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS) as early as this month. However, some water experts, including the Association of California Water Agencies (ACWA), have expressed concern over unintended consequences of the plan. 

In a comment letter to the State Board, ACWA stated that lowering the NLs and RLs would erode the “public’s confidence in the safety and quality of our state’s drinking water sources” as the public “will expect water agencies to provide drinking water only below DDW’s established Response Levels since DDW recommends that water systems remove sources from service if contaminants are detected at concentrations above those levels.” ACWA estimates that at least 30% of water systems would be unable to test below the proposed lower NLs and RLs for PFOA and PFOS despite... read more.

Community News:

Gov. Signs Safe & Affordable Drinking Water Bill

This month Governor Gavin Newsom signed a bill to establish the Safe and Affordable Drinking Water Fund, which aims to improve access to safe drinking water for residents in disadvantaged communities. Approximately 1 million Californians currently lack access to safe drinking water, the vast majority of whom live in small rural communities that rely on private drinking water wells or poorly maintained water systems contaminated by harmful constituents such as arsenic, nitrates, and 1,2,3-TCP. 

According to the State Water Resources Control Board, there are “more than 300 rural and small water systems that cannot currently provide safe drinking water to their communities.” And the problem could worsen, as the State Board maintains that there are “hundreds more small systems serving millions of people that are at risk of failure due to lack of capacity to treat emerging contaminants, poor financial health, and aging infrastructure.”

Newsom originally tried to raise the money through a tax on water bills, but experienced significant pushback from lawmakers representing communities served by larger water systems. Instead, the Safe and Affordable Drinking Water Fund will use up to $130 million per year from the state’s Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund and General Fund until 2030... read more. 

Professional Development Opportunity:

Attend Babcock Labs' Drinking Water Workshop 

It is challenging for any sample technician or operator to take a valid sample without first understanding the “why” and “how” behind the drinking water sample. Proper drinking water sampling requires thorough training, extensive knowledge, appropriate resources, and up-to-date techniques. These elements are vital if an organization wishes to maintain scientific integrity and receive quality, legally defensible data from its laboratory. 

Because this information is so valuable to your organization’s endeavor to protect the public health, Babcock Laboratories has created a Drinking Water Workshop tailored to meet the needs of your staff. The workshop includes... read more.

In Case You Missed It:


Preparing for PFAS Phases I & II (read more)

Rain Quenched CA Braces for Even Worse Wildfire Season (read more)

Preparing for Harmful Algal Blooms (read more) 

California's Phased Investigation Approach to PFAS (read more)

California Bans Chlorpyrifos Pesticide (read more) 

Babcock Labs is a 2018 Top Workplace! (read more)

Babcock Labs Now Women-Owned ESOP! (read more)

EPA Awards Babcock Labs UCMR 4 Small Systems Contract (read more)

Did you know?

Babcock Labs is CA ELAP accredited to perform all 18 analytes for EPA Method 537.1
 
Laboratory Services
Drinking Water Analysis
Wastewater Analysis
Groundwater Analysis
Stormwater Analysis
Hazardous Waste & Soils Analysis
Field Services 
Data Deliverables
Emergency Services
Special Projects 
 
Quick Links
Our Mission, Vision, and Goals
Online Results 
Technical Trainings & Seminars
Current Topics
Certifications
Request a Quote
Babcock Blog
 
Contact Us
Roan McRae 
Director of Business Development 
951-490-1479
rmcrae@babcocklabs.com 

Scott Dallas 
Business Development Associate
951-653-3351 x 262
sdallas@babcocklabs.com


Contact my Project Manager
 

Please note that Babcock Labs strictly adheres to sample acceptance criteria, pursuant to Standard Methods and regulatory requirements. 
Learn more  


UCMR 4 is underway.
We can help! 
Learn more
 

Industry Spotlight: 


Babcock Labs would like to recognize and thank Rancho California Water District for their work in helping the town of Paradise recover from the deadliest wildfire in State history
Learn more

Industry Events

View our upcoming Seminars & Technical Training page 

August
5-9 National Environmental Monitoring Conference (NEMC) - Jacksonville, FL*
6-8 35th Annual Tri-State Seminar - Las Vegas, NV**
19 17th Annual Charity Golf Tournament - Fontana, CA
22 Drinking Water Workshop at Babcock Labs - Riverside, CA***
23 CASA 64th Annual Conference - San Diego, CA
23 Riverside County Water Task Force meeting on PFAS - Riverside, CA**
 
*Look for us! Babcock Labs is attending this event.
**Babcock Labs is attending and sponsoring/speaking at this event.
***Welcome! Babcock Labs is hosting this event.
Copyright © 2019 Babcock Laboratories, Inc., All rights reserved.
IMPORTANT NOTICE ABOUT UNSUBSCRIBING:
Please note that if you completely unsubscribe from our customer service database, you may not be able to receive ANY future communication from Babcock Labs, including important reporting and billing information! If you no longer wish to receive our monthly newsletter, please manage your subscription so that you only receive communication related to your needs and interests.
Thank you for your attention to this matter.   

 

*|MC:SUBJECT|*
 
May 2019 | Volume 9 | Issue 5

June Bloom:

Preparing for Harmful Algal Blooms  

by Allison Mackenzie, CEO

June of last year proved to be prime time for harmful algal blooms, resulting in major human health, environmental, and economic problems across the country. Despite the historically colder and wetter conditions we’ve experienced so far in 2019, harmful algal blooms are not out of the question if summer conditions prove conducive to cyanobacteria growth.

Cyanobacteria , also known as blue-green algae, are naturally occurring components of freshwater and estuarine ecosystems. While algae and cyanobacteria provide aquatic communities with many benefits, as the old saying goes, “everything in moderation.” As temperatures rise and heat up slow-moving water replete with nutrients, these organisms can grow rapidly causing “blooms.” Blooms become problematic because algae and cyanobacteria also produce harmful compounds, such as cyanotoxins and aroma compounds, which pose health risks to humans and animals. When blooms threaten human and environmental health, they are referred to as harmful algal blooms (HABs). The US EPA included nine cyanotoxins in the fourth round of its Unregulated Contaminant Monitoring Rule (UCMR 4), in addition to a total microcystin test. The cyanotoxin chemical... (read more)

Moving Pfast:

PFAS Regulatory Update TEAM Event

The Division of Drinking Water recently announced the State Water Resources Control Board’s phased investigation approach to PFAS. It is the intention of the Board to begin the investigation by collecting PFAS detection data at 31 airports and 252 municipal solid waste landfills. These facilities have the potential to impact over 1,320 surrounding drinking water wells and drinking water sources. Further, there is new legislative pressure on the EPA to accelerate its action on PFAS nationwide.

The fact is PFAS regulation is moving fast, which is why Babcock Labs invites you to learn more at its next TEAM Event on June 20th, 2019. This TEAM Event will feature regulatory updates from Jeff O’Keefe (Division of Drinking Water, SWRCB), as well as monitoring and treatment insights from Rob Little (Woodard & Curran).

We look forward to seeing you on June 20th for this topical and informative event! Register now. 

Cleaning Up Its Act:

Will California Pass a Clean Water Tax?

Approximately 1 million Californians currently struggle to access safe and affordable drinking water due to water agencies that are out of compliance with state standards on contamination levels or treatment techniques. Though not a new problem, new legislative attempts at the state Capitol endeavor to establish a fund for small water agencies unable to provide customers with clean drinking water because of the high treatment costs. As the San Francisco Chronicle reports:

“But several hurdles remain before the June 15 deadline for the Legislature to pass a budget — most precariously, a resistance among lawmakers to tax millions of residential water users and others while California enjoys a surplus of more than $21 billion.

Activists and Gov. Gavin Newsom have pushed to establish a dedicated clean-water fee on customers and agribusiness that would not be at risk of cuts if the economy sours. Many lawmakers, however, prefer that the money come from the state’s general fund, not another tax. (read more) 

The original, unabridged version of this story was authored by Alexei Koseff and published by The SF Chronicle.

In Case You Missed It:

 

California's Phased Investigation Approach to PFAS (read more)

California Bans Chlorpyrifos Pesticide (read more)

Stricter Groundwater Testing Targets E.coli (read more)

On Tap in CA: PFAS Liability & Regulation (read more)

CA Snowpack Packs a Punch (read more)

When the Smoke Clears: Aftereffects of Wildfires on Communities' Water Quality (read more)

Babcock Labs is a 2018 Top Workplace! (read more

Babcock Labs Now Women-Owned ESOP! (read more)

EPA Awards Babcock Labs UCMR 4 Small Systems Contract (read more)

Babcock Labs is
CA ELAP accredited
to perform all 14 analytes for
EPA Method 537 Rev 1.1

Laboratory Services
Drinking Water Analysis
Wastewater Analysis
Groundwater Analysis
Stormwater Analysis
Hazardous Waste & Soils Analysis
Field Services 
Data Deliverables
Emergency Services
Special Projects 
 
Quick Links
Our Mission, Vision, and Goals
Online Results 
Technical Trainings & Seminars
Current Topics
Certifications
Request a Quote
Babcock Blog
 
Contact Us

Scott Dallas 
Business Development Associate
951-653-3351 x 262
sdallas@babcocklabs.com


Contact my Project Manager
 

 

 

Please note that Babcock Labs strictly adheres to sample acceptance criteria, pursuant to Standard Methods and regulatory requirements.
Learn more

 

 

 

_____________________



Year TWO of UCMR 4
is almost here.
Are you ready?
We are! 
Learn more

Industry Events

View our events calendar 
  

June
6/9-12  AWWA ACE19 - Denver, CO
6/20 (tentative) Babcock Labs TEAM Event on PFAS - Riverside, CA***
 

*Look for us! Babcock Labs is attending this event.
**Babcock Labs is attending and sponsoring/speaking at this event.
***Welcome! Babcock Labs is hosting this event.
Copyright © 2017 Babcock Laboratories, Inc., All rights reserved.

Our mailing address is:
P.O. Box 432
Riverside, CA 92502

 

*|MC:SUBJECT|*
 
Apr 2019 | Volume 9 | Issue 4

Regulatory Update:

California's Phased Investigation Approach to PFAS  

by Allison Mackenzie, CEO

Last month the Division of Drinking Water and the Division of Water Quality announced the State Water Resources Control Board’s phased investigation approach to PFAS. It is the intention of the Board to begin the investigation by collecting PFAS detection data at 31 airports and 252 municipal solid waste landfills. These facilities have the potential to impact over 1,320 surrounding drinking water wells and drinking water sources.

The next phase of the investigation will be directed at potential manufacturing facilities: primary manufacturing facilities; refineries, bulk terminals, and other non-airport fire training areas; and 2017-2018 urban wildfire areas. The third phase of the investigation will be secondary manufacturing sites where PFAS may be used, domestic wells, and wastewater treatment and pre-treatment plants.

The State is planning to tackle regulation of PFAS in California in 2020 with possible adjustment to the Notification Levels (NLs) announced last July and the OEHHA Public Health Goals (PHGs), as well as establishment of Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs) and a response strategy to PFAS detections. (read more)

Pests Aside:

California Looks to Ban Chlorpyrifos Pesticide

A California Senate bill aiming to ban the use of a broad-spectrum pesticide passed the Health committee this month and will now be heard in the committee for Environmental Quality. The pesticide, chlorpyrifos, kills insects on contact by attacking their nervous systems. Unfortunately, it also has harmful effects on human neurodevelopment, which is why Sen. Maria Elena Durazo, D-Los Angeles, proposed the bill.

Several epidemiological studies have linked prenatal exposure of chlorpyrifos to lower birth weights, lower IQs, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and other developmental issues—including autism—in children. In fact, under a proposal put forth by the Obama Administration, the U.S. EPA was set to completely ban chlorpyrifos, but in 2017 the ban was halted by then-EPA Administrator Scott Pruitt who claimed understanding of the neurodevelopmental effects remained unresolved. Not only did the EPA halt the ban, the agency is currently fighting a recent 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals order to take the pesticide off the market. These actions have confused many, including Aseem Prakash, the director of the Center for Environmental Politics at the University of Washington.

"The EPA is contradicting the findings of its own scientists," said Prakash.

Despite the EPA’s choice to defend the use of chlorpyrifos, California is considering moving forward... (read more) 

Clean & Green:

Stricter Groundwater Testing Targets E.coli

Monterey County growers face new water-testing regulations that hope to lessen risk of an E. coli outbreak like the one that hit the more-than-$600 million romaine lettuce industry last year.

The California Leafy Greens Marketing Agreement (LGMA) Board of Directors voted Friday to strengthen testing requirements on both surface water and groundwater to prevent another E. coli outbreak. Last year's outbreak sickened dozens and sideswiped the industry in 2018.

While LGMA already incorporated water testing, these new regulations have significantly lowered the rate of bacteria available in water, said CEO Scott Horsfall.

"We always had water testing, but it was a one-size-fits all," Horsfall said.

These more stringent standards came in direct response to outbreaks of the past year in both California and in Yuma, Ariz, where federal testing found the deadly bacteria... (read more) 

This story was authored by Kate Cimini and originally published by The Californian.

In Case You Missed It:

 

Does CA Really Deserve a C+ for Lead Testing in Schools? (read more)

Pulling Water Out of Thin Air for World Water Day (read more)

Cities Leading the Way on Water Reuse (read more)

On Tap in CA: PFAS Liability & Regulation (read more)

CA Snowpack Packs a Punch (read more)

When the Smoke Clears: Aftereffects of Wildfires on Communities' Water Quality (read more)

Babcock Labs is a 2018 Top Workplace! (read more

Babcock Labs Now Women-Owned ESOP! (read more)

EPA Awards Babcock Labs UCMR 4 Small Systems Contract (read more)

Babcock Labs is
CA ELAP accredited
to perform all 14 analytes for
EPA Method 537 Rev 1.1

Laboratory Services
Drinking Water Analysis
Wastewater Analysis
Groundwater Analysis
Stormwater Analysis
Hazardous Waste & Soils Analysis
Field Services 
Data Deliverables
Emergency Services
Special Projects 
 
Quick Links
Our Mission, Vision, and Goals
Online Results 
Technical Trainings & Seminars
Current Topics
Certifications
Request a Quote
Babcock Blog
 
Contact Us

Scott Dallas 
Business Development Associate
951-653-3351 x 262
sdallas@babcocklabs.com


Contact my Project Manager
 

 

 

Please note that Babcock Labs strictly adheres to sample acceptance criteria, pursuant to Standard Methods and regulatory requirements.
Learn more

 

 

Keep an eye out for our
next TEAM Event on
everything PFAS!
Tentatively scheduled
for June 20, 2019  

_____________________



Year TWO of UCMR 4
is almost here.
Are you ready?
We are! 
Learn more

Industry Events

View our events calendar 
  

May
5/7-10 ACWA Spring Conference - Monterey, CA
5/29 ICWA Vendor Fair - San Bernardino, CA*   

June
6/9-12  AWWA ACE19 - Denver, CO
6/20 (tentative) Babcock Labs TEAM Event on PFAS - Riverside, CA***
 

*Look for us! Babcock Labs is attending this event.
**Babcock Labs is attending and sponsoring/speaking at this event.
***Welcome! Babcock Labs is hosting this event.
Copyright © 2017 Babcock Laboratories, Inc., All rights reserved.

Our mailing address is:
P.O. Box 432
Riverside, CA 92502

 

*|MC:SUBJECT|*
View this email in your browser

PFAS Regulatory Action is Underway

Both the U.S. EPA and California State Water Resources Control Board have identified Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) as posing a significant threat to the environment and public health. Both agencies have recently released their respective regulatory action plans to combat PFAS contamination. 

The California Water Boards list Babcock Labs as one of the only laboratories accredited to analyze for PFAS in drinking water by EPA Method 537 Rev. 1.1. Babcock Labs' testing capabilities also include the 18 target analytes for EPA Method 537.1, as well as other methods required for non-potable sources.

PFAS Regulatory Updates
PFAS in Drinking Water
Are you prepared to meet the strict SWRCB sampling guidelines for drinking water?
Learn More
PFAS in Landfills & Airports
Are you ready to comply with the Landfill / Airport 13267 Investigative Orders?
Learn More
Questions about PFAS testing services? Need a quote? 
Contact us at today at 951-653-3351 or PFAS@babcocklabs.com.
Copyright © 2019 Babcock Laboratories, Inc., All rights reserved.

Our mailing address is:
6100 Quail Valley Ct, Riverside, CA 92507

Want to change how you receive these emails?
You can unsubscribe from this list.
*|MC:SUBJECT|*
 
Mar 2019 | Volume 9 | Issue 3

Making the Grade:

Does CA Really Deserve a C+ for Lead Testing in Schools?  

by Allison Mackenzie, CEO

Lead testing was in the mainstream news yet again this month after a report gave California a “C+” for its policies to protect children from lead in drinking water at school. In fairness to California, it was one of the only states to receive a “passing” grade, as 22 of the 32 states analyzed received an “F” grade. If you’re a parent like me, however, you probably feel like a C+ report card is hardly worth celebrating—quite the opposite, in fact, if it concerns protecting my children’s health.

But what exactly did the report base its assessment on? According to the creators of the report, the Environment America Research & Policy Center and U.S. PIRG Education Fund, “more than 400 schools in California have found lead in the water at concentrations of 5 parts per billion (ppb) or greater.” Despite the fact that the EPA Action Level (AL) for lead in drinking water is 15 ppb, the report argued that this AL is not low enough, citing pediatric recommendations of 1ppb. Other areas where California lost significant points included so-called “get the lead out” steps and testing protocols, though the state did receive some bonus points for its proactive removal of lead service lines system wide.

What may be a more apt assessment of our state’s protection of school children, however, is our progress with the lead policies currently in place. In January of 2017, the State Water Resources Control Board’s Division of Drinking Water (DDW) announced its lead testing program... (read more)

Pulling Water Out of Thin Air:

Solution to the Global Water Crisis?

March 22nd marked World Water Day, an annual United Nations observance aimed at tackling the global water crisis. This year’s theme, “leaving no one behind,” focused specifically on U.N. Sustainable Development Goal 6: access to safe and affordable drinking water for all by 2030.

Is there really a global water crisis? Yes. California can certainly attest to it, along with over 40 countries currently experiencing increased water stress and risk of source depletion. According to the U.N., “by 2050, it is projected that at least one in four people will be affected by recurring water shortages.” To prevent one fourth of the world’s population from this horrific fate, the U.N. has identified the need to invest in water infrastructure, sanitation facilities, and proper hygiene education, as well as protect and restore water-related ecosystems. More developed countries have also identified the key role water technology and innovation must play in this global mission.

With the wide-spread scarcity of safe drinking water supplies, one might wish it were possible to pull water out of thin air—and that’s exactly what one company has done. (read more) 

Sustainability Spotlight:

Cities Leading the Way on Water Reuse

From the desert to the sea, California cities are tackling the problem of limited water supply with recycling and reuse solutions.

In San Diego County, the City of Oceanside will break ground this Fall on a new facility that will “purify recycled water to create a new, local source of high-quality drinking water that is clean, safe, drought-proof, and environmentally sound,” according to the City’s website. The facility, which will sit next to the San Luis Rey Water Reclamation Facility, will use “state-of-the-art water purification steps that replicate and accelerate nature’s natural recycling processes” to generate between 3 and 5 million gallons of water per day, according to ABC 10 News . The City believes this move will be monumental in helping Oceanside control its own water destiny.

With similar intentions to control its own destiny, the mountainous City of Tehachapi in Kern County is... (read more) 

In Case You Missed It:

 

On Tap in CA: PFAS Liability & Regulation (read more)

CA Snowpack Packs a Punch (read more)

Who Suffers from a Shutdown? (read more)

The Future Looks Bright: SISTERS Visit Babcock Labs (read more)

Year in Review: Key Issues of 2018 (read more)

When the Smoke Clears: Aftereffects of Wildfires on Communities' Water Quality (read more)

Babcock Labs is a 2018 Top Workplace! (read more

Babcock Labs Now Women-Owned ESOP! (read more)

EPA Awards Babcock Labs UCMR 4 Small Systems Contract (read more)

Babcock Labs is
CA ELAP accredited
to perform all 14 analytes for
EPA Method 537 Rev 1.1

Laboratory Services
Drinking Water Analysis
Wastewater Analysis
Groundwater Analysis
Stormwater Analysis
Hazardous Waste & Soils Analysis
Field Services 
Data Deliverables
Emergency Services
Special Projects 
 
Quick Links
Our Mission, Vision, and Goals
Online Results 
Technical Trainings & Seminars
Current Topics
Certifications
Request a Quote
Babcock Blog
 
Contact Us

Scott Dallas 
Business Development Associate
951-653-3351 x 262
sdallas@babcocklabs.com


Contact my Project Manager
 

 

 

Please note that Babcock Labs strictly adheres to sample acceptance criteria, pursuant to Standard Methods and regulatory requirements.
Learn more

 

 

Keep an eye out for our
next TEAM Event on
PFAS (PFOA/PFOS)!  

_____________________



Year TWO of UCMR 4
is almost here.
Are you ready?
We are! 
Learn more

Industry Events

View our events calendar 
  

April
4/4-5 California Water Policy Conference - San Diego, CA
4/9-12 CWEA Annual Conference - Palm Springs, CA** Booth 925 May
5/7-10 ACWA Spring Conference - Monterey, CA
 

*Look for us! Babcock Labs is attending this event.
**Babcock Labs is attending and sponsoring/speaking at this event.
***Welcome! Babcock Labs is hosting this event.
Copyright © 2017 Babcock Laboratories, Inc., All rights reserved.

Our mailing address is:
P.O. Box 432
Riverside, CA 92502
*|MC:SUBJECT|*
 
Feb 2019 | Volume 9 | Issue 2

On Tap in CA:

PFAS Liability & Regulation  

by Allison Mackenzie, CEO

This month the EPA released its Action Plan for PFAS regulation. The plan, which proposes greater research efforts and further work toward formal regulatory action, has been criticized by environmental groups, residents of contaminated communities, and some lawmakers who say it lacks clear, immediate action. The EPA, however, asserts that the agency is “taking a proactive, cross-agency approach” and that its Action Plan “outlines concrete steps the agency is taking to address PFAS and to protect public health.”

The Action Plan, which was promised last year by former EPA administrator Scott Pruitt, proposes some key action items including regulatory action for drinking water; more research into PFAS toxicity, treatment and remediation, and testing methodology; more targeted monitoring under the next round of UCMR; clarifying cleanup strategies through hazardous substance designation and interim groundwater recommendations; consideration of the addition of PFAS to the Toxics Release Inventory and rules; and the development of a risk communication toolbox to use with the public.

The issue of PFAS pollution has gained more urgency in recent years, due in large part to UCMR 3 data revealing its national prevalence and a recent report from the CDC suggesting current health advisories may not be strict enough to address serious public health risks. In the midst of growing local concern and the delay of federal action, some states have taken it upon themselves to limit the use of two of the most persistent and dangerous PFAS compounds: Perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS) and Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA). While New Jersey has set enforceable Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs) for PFOA and PFOS at 14 parts per trillion (ppt) and 13 ppt respectively, California has taken a slightly different approach that includes PFAS liability implications for... (read more)

Snowpack Packs a Punch:

Is it Enough to Defeat the Drought?

California’s snowpack is now over 136% of normal and rising, with more snow expected this weekend. This is quite a jump from the beginning of the year when the State’s snowpack was at 67%.

The atmospheric rivers responsible for all this heavy snow and rainfall have been a welcome reprieve for a state long mired in serious drought. Once depleted water supplies are slowly but surely being replenished.

Despite the fact that much of the state is currently out of drought, it is important to note that groundwater basin replenishment from snowpack... (read more) 

Last Chance to Attend:

Registration Ends Today for Special TEAM Event on Cannabis Effects on Wastewater

Today is the last day to register for Babcock Lab’s special TEAM Event exploring the cannabis industry’s effects on wastewater.

The event will take place Thursday, March 7th, at our conference facilities in Riverside and will feature a panel of guests who will provide key insight into current and future cannabis industry effects on wastewater treatment.

Learn more about this special TEAM Event!

Register now 

In Case You Missed It:

 

Who Suffers from a Shutdown? (read more)

The Future Looks Bright: SISTERS Visit Babcock Labs (read more)

Year in Review: Key Issues of 2018 (read more)

When the Smoke Clears: Aftereffects of Wildfires on Communities' Water Quality (read more)

It's Not the Lettuce, It's the Water: Romain Recall Sheds Light on Ag Water Quality (read more)

Babcock Labs is a 2018 Top Workplace! (read more)

PFOA & PFOS: Not Why, But How? (read more)

Cultivating Conservation: Winning Strategies for Water Agencies (read more)

Back to School: Few CA Schools Have Tested for Lead Despite Aid (read more)Babcock Labs Now Women-Owned ESOP! (read more)

EPA Awards Babcock Labs UCMR 4 Small Systems Contract (read more)

 

Babcock Labs is CA ELAP
accredited to perform
EPA Method 537

Laboratory Services
Drinking Water Analysis
Wastewater Analysis
Groundwater Analysis
Stormwater Analysis
Hazardous Waste & Soils Analysis
Field Services 
Data Deliverables
Emergency Services
Special Projects 
 
Quick Links
Our Mission, Vision, and Goals
Online Results 
Technical Trainings & Seminars
Current Topics
Certifications
Request a Quote
Babcock Blog
 
Contact Us

Scott Dallas 
Business Development Associate
951-653-3351 x 262
sdallas@babcocklabs.com


Contact my Project Manager
 

 

 

Please note that Babcock Labs strictly adheres to sample acceptance criteria, pursuant to Standard Methods and regulatory requirements.
Learn more

 

Getting Into the Weeds: 
Babcock Labs will hold
its next TEAM Event,
"Wasted: Cannabis
Industry Effects on
Wastewater" on March 7th.  
Register Now

_____________________



Year TWO of UCMR 4
is almost here.
Are you ready?
We are! 
Learn more

Industry Events

View our events calendar 
  

March
3/6 State Water Resources Control Board Public Meeting on PFAS - Sacramento, CA
3/7 Babcock Labs' TEAM Event "Wasted: Cannabis Industry Effects on Wastewater" - Riverside, CA***
3/17-19 WateReuse CA Annual Conference - Garden Grove, CA
3/25-28 CA-NV AWWA Spring Conference - Monterey, CA
3/26-28 ACIL P2 Meeting  - Washington, DC* 
3/29 Santa Ana River Watershed Conference - Fullerton, CA** 

April
4/4-5 California Water Policy Conference - San Diego, CA
4/9-12 CWEA Annual Conference - Palm Springs, CA** Booth 925
 

*Look for us! Babcock Labs is attending this event.
**Babcock Labs is attending and sponsoring/speaking at this event.
***Welcome! Babcock Labs is hosting this event.
Copyright © 2017 Babcock Laboratories, Inc., All rights reserved.

Our mailing address is:
P.O. Box 432
Riverside, CA 92502

 

*|MC:SUBJECT|*
 
Jan 2019 | Volume 9 | Issue 1

Who Suffers from a Shutdown?

Hint: It's Not Politicians  

by Allison Mackenzie, CEO

The longest government shutdown in American history is over—at least for the next three weeks. While this comes as a relief to some 800,000 furloughed federal workers headed back to work this week, the Congressional Budget Office says the shutdown cost the U.S. economy an unrecoverable $3 billion. For many, the ripple effects of this shutdown will continue to be felt.

Who suffers from a shutdown? Our businesses and economy certainly suffer, putting strain on the average American’s earnings. But a shutdown doesn’t just harm our pockets—it harms our health and communities.

One of the federal agencies impacted by this shutdown was the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). As the New York Times reported at the beginning of the month, the EPA “furloughed most of its roughly 600 pollution inspectors and other workers who monitor compliance with environmental laws. Those scientists, engineers and analysts are responsible for detecting violations that endanger human health…” Indeed, the environmental laws we have in place are there for very good reason. Perhaps due to the success of the EPA people do not recall what life was like before the agency was formed to administer federal environmental regulations. Perhaps people do not remember when factories dumped waste directly into waterways, children endured smog that impacted their respiratory health and lifespan, neighborhoods were built on top of toxic waste dumps, and rivers literally burned. If that America is hard to imagine... (read more)

Wasted:

Cannabis Industry Effects on Wastewater

A year after the start of recreational sales of marijuana, California has seen a steady uptick in grow facilities. Unlike cannabis farms where the agricultural runoff impacts groundwater, Southern California growers rely heavily on indoor grow facilities that discharge into the sewer system. This poses new challenges for local wastewater treatment plants.

Babcock Labs invites you to get into the weeds of the cannabis industry’s impact on wastewater at its next TEAM Event on March 7th, 2019. This special TEAM Event will feature a panel of guests who will share their experiences and provide key insight into current and future effects on wastewater treatment.

We look forward to seeing you at this informative event! Register Now 

The Future Looks Bright:

SISTERS Visit Babcock Labs

The future looks bright! How do we know? This month Babcock Labs hosted local middle school students who toured our facilities and learned about environmental testing careers. These future scientists and engineers are part of the Success in Science & Technology: Engagement with Role-models (SISTERS) program.

The goal of SISTERS is to engage middle school girls in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) and provide mentors who will help prepare them to pursue a career in one of the STEM fields. The program is a partnership between UCR College of Natural & Agricultural Sciences (UCR CNAS), Riverside Unified School District (RUSD), and the City of Riverside Citizens Science Committee.

Approximately 30 middle schoolers funneled into the Babcock Labs conference room on January 16th, where they were welcomed by... (read more) 

In Case You Missed It:

 

Year in Review: Key Issues of 2018 (read more)

When the Smoke Clears: Aftereffects of Wildfires on Communities' Water Quality (read more)

It's Not the Lettuce, It's the Water: Romain Recall Sheds Light on Ag Water Quality (read more)

Babcock Labs is a 2018 Top Workplace! (read more)

PFOA & PFOS: Not Why, But How? (read more)

Cultivating Conservation: Winning Strategies for Water Agencies (read more)

Back to School: Few CA Schools Have Tested for Lead Despite Aid (read more)Babcock Labs Now Women-Owned ESOP! (read more)

EPA Awards Babcock Labs UCMR 4 Small Systems Contract (read more)

 

Reminder: Babcock Labs
will be closed on
Monday, February 18th
in observance of
Presidents' Day

Laboratory Services
Drinking Water Analysis
Wastewater Analysis
Groundwater Analysis
Stormwater Analysis
Hazardous Waste & Soils Analysis
Field Services 
Data Deliverables
Emergency Services
Special Projects 
 
Quick Links
Our Mission, Vision, and Goals
Online Results 
Technical Trainings & Seminars
Current Topics
Certifications
Request a Quote
Babcock Blog
 
Contact Us

Cathy Iijima 
Director of Client Services
951-653-3351 x 235
ciijima@babcocklabs.com


Contact my Project Manager
 

 

 

Please note that Babcock Labs strictly adheres to sample acceptance criteria, pursuant to Standard Methods and regulatory requirements.
Learn more

 

Getting Into the Weeds: 
Babcock Labs will hold
its next TEAM Event,
"Wasted: Cannabis
Industry Effects on
Wastewater" on March 7th.  
Register Now

_____________________



Year TWO of UCMR 4
is almost here.
Are you ready?
We are! 
Learn more

Industry Events

View our events calendar 
  

February
2/8 Deadline for Comment Submission on ELAP Regulations
2/11-12 AGWA - AGWT Annual Groundwater Conference - Ontario, CA
2/11-13 CWEA - P3S - Monterey, CA
2/26 Riverside County Garden in Every School  - Chino, CA 

March
3/7 Babcock Labs' TEAM Event "Wasted: Cannabis Industry Effects on Wastewater" - Riverside, CA***
3/17-19 WateReuse CA Annual Conference - Garden Grove, CA
3/25-28 CA-NV AWWA Spring Conference - Monterey, CA
3/26-28 ACIL P2 Meeting  - Washington, DC* 
3/29 Santa Ana River Watershed Conference - Fullerton, CA** 
 

*Look for us! Babcock Labs is attending this event.
**Babcock Labs is attending and sponsoring/speaking at this event.
***Welcome! Babcock Labs is hosting this event.
Copyright © 2017 Babcock Laboratories, Inc., All rights reserved.

Our mailing address is:
P.O. Box 432
Riverside, CA 92502
*|MC:SUBJECT|*
 
Holiday 2018 | Volume 8 | Issue 11

Year in Review:

Key Issues of 2018  

by Allison Mackenzie, CEO

As we prepare to welcome 2019, I find it important to reflect on some of the key industry issues of 2018 as they provide a prelude to the focal-points and challenges our industry is sure to experience in the New Year.

January: Lead Testing in Schools

At the beginning of the year, industry focus was on lead testing in schools to protect children’s health. The American Water Works Association (AWWA) partnered with the State Water Resources Control Board (State Board) on a webinar concerning AB 746, which requires community water systems to test lead levels in the drinking water of schools that were constructed before 2010. The webinar also addressed requirements for lead-testing-related bills SB 1398 and SB 427. Testing for lead in drinking water, particularly in schools, was a major topic of concern for 2018 and will likely resurge in 2019, as regulatory deadlines approach.

February: 1,2,3-TCP Monitoring & Permanent Water Restrictions

1,2,3-TCP testing was also a hot button industry issue at the beginning of the year, as state-mandated quarterly monitoring under the new California MCL of five parts per trillion (ppt) commenced. Babcock Labs played an integral role in helping local water systems comply with 1,2,3-TCP monitoring regulations this year, as a number of other laboratories lacked accreditation or adequate capacity.

In February the State Board considered reinstating and making permanent many of the water restrictions that California enacted during the recent five-year dry spell. Despite some water agencies’ concerns over the state’s authority to impose permanent restrictions (read more)

When the Smoke Clears:

Aftereffects of Wildfires on Communities' Water Quality

On November 8th, 2018, a fire started near Camp Creek Road in Butte County, California. Over the next 17 days that fire would ravage 153,336 acres of land, making it the deadliest and most destructive wildfire on record in California, and the sixth deadliest U.S. wildfire in recorded history. Five hundred miles south on November 8th, another fire started in Woolsey Canyon between Los Angeles and Ventura counties, ultimately engulfing 96,949 acres over the next 13 days. By the time both fires were completely contained, 89 people had lost their lives, tens of thousands of people had lost their homes and businesses, and the people of Paradise had lost their entire town.

It is impossible to overstate the tragedy of the Camp and Woolsey fires. The road to recovery will be a long, expensive, and painful one and, unfortunately, rebuilding is only the first of many costs. In addition to the obvious aftermath of a wildfire, there is a subtle yet salient issue these communities will now face: tainted water quality. (read more)

It's Not the Lettuce, It's the Water:

Romaine Recall Sheds Light on Ag Water Quality

Thanksgiving this year was salad-less, thanks to a nation-wide romaine lettuce recall on November 20th. And while many Americans were probably more than happy to have more room on their plates for stuffing and gravy, the E. coli outbreak that prompted the recall was rather dire. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) called on consumers to throw away all romaine lettuce following 32 confirmed cases of E. coli bacteria poisoning in 11 U.S. states and Canada.

Recall attention focused on the produce itself, but throwing the lettuce away was merely a temporary solution to our seemingly ever-present food safety issues. If we wish to prevent foodborne illnesses, the real culprit that must be dealt with is deficient agricultural water quality. (read more) 

In Case You Missed It:

 

Babcock Labs is a 2018 Top Workplace! (read more)

ESOP Month: Babcock Labs Celebrates Being Employee Owned (read more)

Toilet-to-Tap: Babcock Labs Sponsors CUC Breakfast on Recycled Water (read more)

PFOA & PFOS: Not Why, But How? (read more)

Cultivating Conservation: Winning Strategies for Water Agencies (read more)

Back to School: Few CA Schools Have Tested for Lead Despite Aid (read more)

From the Ashes: Wildfire Effects on Water Quality (read more) 

June Bloom: Harmful Algal Blooms on the Rise (learn more) PFAS Report Released: New CDC Data Intensifies Drinking Water Concerns (read more)

Babcock Labs in the Community (read more)Babcock Labs Now Women-Owned ESOP! (read more)

EPA Awards Babcock Labs UCMR 4 Small Systems Contract (read more)

 

Reminder: Babcock Labs
will be closed on
Tuesday, December 25th
in observance of the
Christmas holiday and on
Tuesday, January 1st
in observance of the
New Year

Laboratory Services
Drinking Water Analysis
Wastewater Analysis
Groundwater Analysis
Stormwater Analysis
Hazardous Waste & Soils Analysis
Food & Beverage Analysis
Field Services 
Data Deliverables
Emergency Services
Special Projects 
 
Quick Links
Our Mission, Vision, and Goals
Online Results 
Technical Trainings & Seminars
Current Topics
Certifications
Request a Quote
Babcock Blog
 
Contact Us

Cathy Iijima 
Director of Client Services
951-653-3351 x 235
ciijima@babcocklabs.com


Contact my Project Manager
 

 

 

Please note that Babcock Labs strictly adheres to sample acceptance criteria, pursuant to Standard Methods and regulatory requirements.
Learn more

 

Getting Into the Weeds: 
Babcock Labs will hold
its next TEAM Event,
"Wasted: Cannabis
Industry Effects on
Wastewater" in February.
Exact date TBD.  
I'm interested, keep me updated!

_____________________



Year TWO of UCMR 4
is almost here.
Are you ready?
We are! 
Learn more

Industry Events

View our events calendar 
 

January
1/23-25 CASA Winter Conference - Indian Wells, CA
1/30 Understanding Climate Change in California - Lemoore, CA 

February
TBD Babcock Labs' TEAM Event "Wasted: Cannabis Industry Effects on Wastewater" - Riverside, CA***
2/11-12 AGWA - AGWT Annual Groundwater Conference - Ontario, CA
2/11-13 CWEA - P3S - Monterey, CA
2/26 Riverside County Garden in Every School  - Chino, CA 
 

*Look for us! Babcock Labs is attending this event.
**Babcock Labs is attending and sponsoring/speaking at this event.
***Welcome! Babcock Labs is hosting this event.
Copyright © 2017 Babcock Laboratories, Inc., All rights reserved.

Our mailing address is:
P.O. Box 432
Riverside, CA 92502
*|MC:SUBJECT|*
 
October 2018 | Volume 8 | Issue 10

Winter Forecast:

A Strong Chance of El Niño  

by Allison Mackenzie, CEO

Weather experts say the conditions are ripe for a winter El Niño that would bring rain to the south and above-average temperatures to the north.

As Deputy Director of NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center, Mike Halpert, explained, “We expect El Niño to be in place in late fall to early winter. Although a weak El Niño is expected, it may still influence the winter season by bringing wetter conditions across the southern United States, and warmer, drier conditions to parts of the North.”

When it comes to which southwestern states can expect a winter downpour, however, California does not quite make the cut. Weather models predict that drought conditions are likely to persist across portions of the central Great Basin, the central Rockies, and Southern California, despite the very bottom of the State making it into the “wetter than normal” predictions.

So what does a mild El Niño that may barely touch California mean? (read more)

ESOP Month:

Babcock Labs Celebrates Employee Ownership

October is associated with jack-o-lanterns, ghouls and goblins, and pumpkin spice… everything. But for the laboratory professionals at Babcock Labs, October is also associated with employee ownership!

October is national Employee Ownership Month. As a 100 percent employee-owned company, Babcock Labs celebrates with month-long events focused on ownership education and team pride. Events include a company breakfast, puzzles and games, and “Prideday Fridays” where staff members wear gear that reps their alma maters, favorite sports teams, organizations they support in the local community, and, of course, our Babcock family of employee owners. Throughout the fun, staff learn about our Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) and the many benefits and responsibilities of employee ownership.

As an ESOP, employees have stock in the company which in turn gives our staff greater incentive to provide our clients with exceptional analytical testing services... (read more)

Drinking Water Workshop:

Join Us on November 15th

Babcock Labs will hold its semi-annual Drinking Water Workshop on Thursday, November 15th. To register, click here. For more information about what the workshop entails, read below:

It is challenging for any sample technician or operator to take a valid sample without first understanding the “why” and “how” behind the drinking water sample. Proper drinking water sampling requires thorough training, extensive knowledge, appropriate resources, and up-to-date techniques. These elements are vital if an organization wishes to maintain scientific integrity and receive data of known and documented quality from its laboratory.

Because this information is so valuable to your organization’s endeavor to protect the public health, Babcock Laboratories has created a Drinking Water Workshop tailored to meet the needs of your staff. The workshop includes... (read more) 

In Case You Missed It:

 

Toilet-to-Tap: Babcock Labs Sponsors CUC Breakfast on Recycled Water (read more)

PFOA & PFOS: Not Why, But How? (read more)

Cultivating Conservation: Winning Strategies for Water Agencies (read more)

Back to School: Few CA Schools Have Tested for Lead Despite Aid (read more)

From the Ashes: Wildfire Effects on Water Quality (read more) 

June Bloom: Harmful Algal Blooms on the Rise (learn more) PFAS Report Released: New CDC Data Intensifies Drinking Water Concerns (read more)

Babcock Labs in the Community (read more)Babcock Labs Now Women-Owned ESOP! (read more)

EPA Awards Babcock Labs UCMR 4 Small Systems Contract (read more)

Babcock Labs is a Top Workplace! (read more)

 

 

Laboratory Services
Drinking Water Analysis
Wastewater Analysis
Groundwater Analysis
Stormwater Analysis
Hazardous Waste & Soils Analysis
Food & Beverage Analysis
Field Services 
Data Deliverables
Emergency Services
Special Projects 
 
Quick Links
Our Mission, Vision, and Goals
Online Results 
Technical Trainings & Seminars
Current Topics
Certifications
Request a Quote
Babcock Blog
 
Contact Us

Cathy Iijima 
Director of Client Services
951-653-3351 x 235
ciijima@babcocklabs.com


Contact my Project Manager
 

 

 

Please note that Babcock Labs strictly adheres to sample acceptance criteria, pursuant to Standard Methods and regulatory requirements.
Learn more

 

UCMR 4 Webinar Interest:
Have you been unable to
attend one of our UCMR 4 Workshops? Let us know
if you'd be interested in attending a webinar:
I'm interested

_____________________



Ready for UCMR 4?
We are! 
Learn more

Industry Events

View our events calendar 
 

 

November
11/6-10 SupplySide West - Las Vegas, NV
11/7-9 NWRA 87th Annual Conference - Coronado, CA
11/27-30 ACWA Fall Conference - San Diego, CA* Booth #506 
 

*Look for us! Babcock Labs is attending this event.
**Babcock Labs is attending and sponsoring/speaking at this event.
***Welcome! Babcock Labs is hosting this event.
Copyright © 2017 Babcock Laboratories, Inc., All rights reserved.

Our mailing address is:
P.O. Box 432
Riverside, CA 92502
*|MC:SUBJECT|*
 
September 2018 | Volume 8 | Issue 9

PFOA & PFOS:

Not Why, But How? 

by Allison Mackenzie, CEO

The concern over polyfluoroalkyl substances like PFOA and PFOS is clear—what is less clear is how we will be testing for them.

Currently, there is no fully validated, approved EPA method to detect polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in non-drinking water matrices at either the State or Federal level, despite recent State guidelines and EPA health advisories. Even in regard to drinking water, things are a bit murky. The U.S. EPA authorized EPA method 537 for select PFAS analysis in drinking water under the third round of the Unregulated Contaminant Monitoring Rule program (UCMR 3). However, the EPA’s drinking water program does not have any requirements for post-UCMR monitoring since PFOA, PFOS, and the other UCMR target analytes are not yet regulated under the Safe Drinking Water Act. Similarly, California has not previously offered accreditation for PFAS, and therefore no laboratory is currently certified by California ELAP to perform the analysis.

This does not mean laboratories are completely without accreditation. For example, Babcock Labs is accredited to perform EPA method 537 in drinking water under its NELAP accreditation through the state of Oregon (ORELAP). Babcock Labs was also one of the limited number of EPA approved laboratories under UCMR 3, and therefore has extensive experience with PFAS determination.

At Babcock Labs’ recent TEAM Event, esteemed guest Christine Sotelo, Chair of CA ELAP, mentioned that ELAP has begun accepting data package submissions for PFOA/PFOS accreditation... (read more)

Cultivating Conservation:

Winning Strategies for Water Agencies

California water agencies face increasing pressure to promote and implement sustainable water conservation practices. But as the old saying goes, “old habits die hard.” So what motivates people to use less water?

New information from the Public Policy Institute of California (PPIC) may provide important insight into this question.

Dr. Katrina Jessoe, a professor and economist at UC Davis and a member of the PPIC Water Policy Center’s research network, is one of the researchers studying water conservation messaging to determine what strategies are most effective in motivating consumers to use less water. Her research team partnered with a municipally-owned water and electric utility to see how people would respond to... (read more)

Groundwater Exchange:

New Website Provides SGMA Resources 

California water agencies and communities have a new resource for groundwater management information and tools.

Groundwater Exchange, a website located at www.groundwaterexchange.org, describes itself as “a free, collaborative online resource for connecting water managers, water users, and community members to support the design and implementation of effective Groundwater Sustainability Plans under California’s Sustainable Groundwater Management Act (SGMA).” The website was created by Maven’s Notebook in partnership with the Environmental Defense Fund (EDF) and Stanford’s Program on Water in the West (WitW) to serve as a central hub of science-based information related to SGMA.

“Information about SGMA is currently spread across dozens of different websites,” said Christina Babbitt, senior manager of EDF’s California Groundwater Program. “With the Groundwater Exchange, we’re consolidating that information onto one website where communities across California can learn more about the law and become more engaged in issues related... (read more) 

In Case You Missed It:

 

Back to School: Few CA Schools Have Tested for Lead Despite Aid (read more)

From the Ashes: Wildfire Effects on Water Quality (read more)

Regulatory Update: New Guidelines for PFOA & PFOS (read more)

The Future Landscape for Science: 2018 Environmental Symposium (read more) 

June Bloom: Harmful Algal Blooms on the Rise (learn more) PFAS Report Released: New CDC Data Intensifies Drinking Water Concerns (read more)

Leaders in the Industry: Babcock Labs Addresses Regulatory Issues (read more)

Babcock Labs in theCommunity (read more)Babcock Labs Now Women-Owned ESOP! (read more)

EPA Awards Babcock Labs UCMR 4 Small Systems Contract (read more)

Babcock Labs is a Top Workplace! (read more)

 

 

Laboratory Services
Drinking Water Analysis
Wastewater Analysis
Groundwater Analysis
Stormwater Analysis
Hazardous Waste & Soils Analysis
Food & Beverage Analysis
Field Services 
Data Deliverables
Emergency Services
Special Projects 
 
Quick Links
Our Mission, Vision, and Goals
Online Results 
Technical Trainings & Seminars
Current Topics
Certifications
Request a Quote
Babcock Blog
 
Contact Us

Cathy Iijima 
Director of Client Services
951-653-3351 x 235
ciijima@babcocklabs.com


Contact my Project Manager
 

HEAT ADVISORY:
All UCMR 4 clients are reminded to submit
samples on ice to meet sample temperature acceptance criteria!

 

Please note that Babcock Labs strictly adheres to sample acceptance criteria, pursuant to Standard Methods and regulatory requirements.
Learn more

 

UCMR 4 Webinar Interest:
Have you been unable to
attend one of our UCMR 4 Workshops? Let us know
if you'd be interested in attending a webinar:
I'm interested

_____________________



Ready for UCMR 4?
We are! 
Learn more

Industry Events

View our events calendar 
 

October
10/2-5 ACIL Annual Meeting - San Antonio, TX
10/16 ACWA Regulatory Summit - Sacramento, CA
10/15-17 CASQA Annual Conference - Riverside, CA (Booth #26)*
10/22-25 CA-NV AWWA Fall Conference - Rancho Mirage, CA (Booth #301)*
10/25-26 Tribal Water Summit - Phoenix, AZ

November
11/7-9 NWRA 87th Annual Conference - Coronado, CA
11/27-30 ACWA Fall Conference - San Diego, CA 
 

*Look for us! Babcock Labs is attending this event.
**Babcock Labs is attending and sponsoring/speaking at this event.
***Welcome! Babcock Labs is hosting this event.
Copyright © 2017 Babcock Laboratories, Inc., All rights reserved.

Our mailing address is:
P.O. Box 432
Riverside, CA 92502
*|MC:SUBJECT|*
 
August 2018 | Volume 8 | Issue 8

Back to School:

Few CA Schools Have Tested for Lead Despite Aid

by Allison Mackenzie, CEO

Last week, drinking water fixtures at Grant Union High School in Sacramento were shut off after elevated levels of lead and copper were found in the water.

Grant Union High School is not the first school to experience risky lead levels in its drinking water; it is merely the most recent. The water quality issues the Sacramento school is experiencing should serve as a wake-up call to all California schools, the vast majority of which have yet to take advantage of the State Water Resource Control Board’s lead testing program for schools.

In January of last year, the State Water Resources Control Board’s Division of Drinking Water (DDW) announced the program, which encourages California schools to work with their local water providers to sample for the presence of lead in their drinking water. Under this program, if a K-12 school official requests lead testing its public water system is responsible for collecting water samples within 90 days of the request, having the samples analyzed by an ELAP-accredited laboratory, and reporting the results to the school within two business days of receiving the results—all free of charge to the school . The water system is required to collect up to 5 samples at each school requesting assistance.

However, 67% of the State’s 1,026 school districts have not taken advantage of the testing program to determine whether or not their water fixtures are delivering unsafe levels of lead to students and school staff... (read more)

From the Ashes:

Wildfire Effects on Water Quality

A parched preceding year paired with exceptionally hot summer months set California up for a disastrous and historic 2018 fire season. So far in 2018, Cal Fire has recorded over 876,400 acres burned. That’s more than four times the acreage burned compared to this time last year, which Cal Fire reported as just over 228,800 acres.

It is obvious that these fires are a threat to people, wildlife, structures, and our heroic firefighters, but what is less obvious is the danger they pose to our water quality.

California’s forests supply more than 60 percent of the State’s water. According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), “wildfires can compromise water quality both during active burning and for months and years after the fire has been contained.” While the fire is raging, ash can settle on lakes and reservoirs used for drinking water supplies. But even after the fire is extinguished, storms can further contaminate water supplies... (read more)

What's on Tap in California?

Attend the Next TEAM Event to Find Out! 

Babcock Labs will hold its next TEAM Event on Thursday, September 20th. To register, click here.

Attendees will hear from experts at the State’s Division of Drinking Water: Christine Sotelo (Chief, CA ELAP) and Sean McCarthy (Section Chief, South Coast Section).

Ms. Sotelo will provide an update on CA ELAP’s transformation initiatives, in addition to efforts to adopt laboratory standards into the California Code of Regulations. Mr. McCarthy will discuss the Division’s regulatory priorities for 2018, including the new notification levels for PFOA and PFOS, the 1,2,3-TCP MCL, and the latest developments on Lead and Copper, such as lead sampling in schools.

We look forward to seeing you on September 20th for this informative event! Register now.

In Case You Missed It:

 

Regulatory Update: New Guidelines for PFOA & PFOS (read more)

The Future Landscape for Science: 2018 Environmental Symposium (read more) 

June Bloom: Harmful Algal Blooms on the Rise (learn more) PFAS Report Released: New CDC Data Intensifies Drinking Water Concerns (read more)

Leaders in the Industry: Babcock Labs Addresses Regulatory Issues (read more)

Babcock Labs in theCommunity (read more)Babcock Labs Now Women-Owned ESOP! (read more)

EPA Awards Babcock Labs UCMR 4 Small Systems Contract (read more)

Babcock Labs is a Top Workplace! (read more)

 

Reminder: Babcock Labs
will be closed on Monday, September 3rd in
observance of Labor Day 

Laboratory Services
Drinking Water Analysis
Wastewater Analysis
Groundwater Analysis
Stormwater Analysis
Hazardous Waste & Soils Analysis
Food & Beverage Analysis
Field Services 
Data Deliverables
Emergency Services
Special Projects 
 
Quick Links
Our Mission, Vision, and Goals
Online Results 
Technical Trainings & Seminars
Current Topics
Certifications
Request a Quote
Babcock Blog
 
Contact Us

Cathy Iijima 
Director of Client Services
951-653-3351 x 235
ciijima@babcocklabs.com


Contact my Project Manager
 

HEAT ADVISORY:
All UCMR 4 clients are reminded to submit
samples on ice to meet sample temperature acceptance criteria!

 

Please note that Babcock Labs strictly adheres to sample acceptance criteria, pursuant to Standard Methods and regulatory requirements.
Learn more

 

UCMR 4 Webinar Interest:
Have you been unable to
attend one of our UCMR 4 Workshops? Let us know
if you'd be interested in attending a webinar:
I'm interested

_____________________



Ready for UCMR 4?
We are! 
Learn more

Industry Events

View our events calendar 
 

September
9/13 SCWUA Vendors Fair - Irwindale, CA
9/20 Babcock Labs TEAM Event - Riverside, CA***
9/24-27 34th Annual Tri-State Seminar - Las Vegas, NV (Booth #1420)*
9/25-27  GRA 1st Annual Western Groundwater Congress - Sacramento, CA

October
10/2-5 ACIL Annual Meeting - San Antonio, TX
10/16 ACWA Regulatory Summit - Sacramento, CA
10/15-17 CASQA Annual Conference - Riverside, CA (Booth #26)*
10/22-25 CA-NV AWWA Fall Conference - Rancho Mirage, CA (Booth #301)*
10/25-26 Tribal Water Summit - Phoenix, AZ
 

*Look for us! Babcock Labs is attending this event.
**Babcock Labs is attending and sponsoring/speaking at this event.
***Welcome! Babcock Labs is hosting this event.
Copyright © 2017 Babcock Laboratories, Inc., All rights reserved.

Our mailing address is:
P.O. Box 432
Riverside, CA 92502
*|MC:SUBJECT|*
 
July 2018 | Volume 8 | Issue 7

Regulatory Update:

New Guidelines for PFOA & PFOS

by Allison Mackenzie, CEO

The State Water Resources Control Board has established new drinking water guidelines for local water agencies in regard to two Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) substances: perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS).

The Board’s Division of Drinking Water (DDW) set interim Drinking Water Notification Levels of 14 parts per trillion (ppt) for PFOA and 13 ppt for PFOS. Additionally, the DDW has established an interim Response Level of 70 ppt for the total combined concentration of PFOA and PFOS, consistent with the USEPA’s health advisory level established in 2016.

PFAS—also known as Perfluorinated Compounds (PFCs)—are a diverse group of manufactured compounds frequently used as surfactants in industrial, consumer, military, and firefighting applications across the United States, such as Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF) firefighting products, textiles, and pesticides. PFOA and PFOS are fully fluorinated organic compounds that are particularly resistant to degradation. What’s more, they are among the PFAS compounds identified as posing health risks... (read more)

The Future Landscape of Science:

2018 Environmental Measurement Symposium

Next month representatives from Babcock Laboratories will head to NOLA to attend the annual NEMC/TNI Environmental Measurement Symposium.

The weeklong conference will include 180 oral and poster presentations in 27 technical sessions, five keynote speakers, a technology showcase, and a plenary session on the conference’s theme, “The Future Landscape for Science.”

The conference will be attended by Babcock Labs’ Vice President & Laboratory Director, Brad Meadows, and Quality Assurance Manager, Stacey Fry. Mr. Meadows and Ms. Fry look forward to learning more about the forthcoming changes to The NELAC Institute’s (TNI) National Environmental Laboratory Accreditation Program (NELAP) so that they can ensure successful implementation at Babcock Labs.

“Our participation in the Environmental Measurement Symposium ensures that Babcock Labs is up-to-speed on possible solutions to technical challenges facing our industry,” said Mr. Meadows. “And as a commercial laboratory with clients who rely on our data to protect public health and the environment... (read more)

On Tap in California:

Updates from the Division of Drinking Water 

Babcock Labs will hold its next TEAM Event on Thursday, September 20th. To register, click here. For more information about the seminar, read below:

As the summer heats up, you can be sure Californians have one thing on their minds: water. Yes, of course we're thinking about the beach and the pool, but as we slip back into drought conditions, drinking water is also top of mind. What is California doing to help water agencies ensure that drinking water is safe and plentiful?

Babcock Laboratories invites you to gain answers to this important question and others at our September TEAM Event! (read more)

In Case You Missed It:

 

June Bloom: Harmful Algal Blooms on the Rise (learn more)

PFAS Report Released: New CDC Data Intensifies Drinking Water Concerns (read more)

Leaders in the Industry: Babcock Labs Addresses Regulatory Issues (read more)

Babcock Labs in theCommunity (read more)Babcock Labs Now Women-Owned ESOP! (read more)

EPA Awards Babcock Labs UCMR 4 Small Systems Contract (read more)

Babcock Labs is a Top Workplace! (read more)

 

 

Laboratory Services
Drinking Water Analysis
Wastewater Analysis
Groundwater Analysis
Stormwater Analysis
Hazardous Waste & Soils Analysis
Food & Beverage Analysis
Field Services 
Data Deliverables
Emergency Services
Special Projects 
 
Quick Links
Our Mission, Vision, and Goals
Online Results 
Technical Trainings & Seminars
Current Topics
Certifications
Request a Quote
Babcock Blog
 
Contact Us

Cathy Iijima 
Director of Client Services
951-653-3351 x 235
ciijima@babcocklabs.com


Contact my Project Manager
 

HEAT ADVISORY:
All UCMR 4 clients are reminded to submit
samples on ice to meet sample temperature acceptance criteria!

 

Please note that Babcock Labs strictly adheres to sample acceptance criteria, pursuant to Standard Methods and regulatory requirements.
Learn more

 

UCMR 4 Webinar Interest:
Have you been unable to
attend one of our UCMR 4 Workshops? Let us know
if you'd be interested in attending a webinar:
I'm interested

_____________________



Ready for UCMR 4?
We are! 
Learn more

Industry Events

View our events calendar 
 

August
8/6-10 NEMC/TNI Environmental Measurement Symposium - New Orleans, LA*
8/8-10 CASA 63rd Annual Conference - Monterey, CA
8/10 San Bernardino County Water Conference - Ontario, CA**
8/23 CWEA DAMS Vendor Fair & Air Pack Derby - Big Bear, CA

September
9/13 SCWUA Vendors Fair - Irwindale, CA
9/20 Babcock Labs TEAM Event - Riverside, CA***
9/24-27 34th Annual Tri-State Seminar - Las Vegas, NV*
9/25-27  GRA 1st Annual Western Groundwater Congress - Sacramento, CA
 

*Look for us! Babcock Labs is attending this event.
**Babcock Labs is attending and sponsoring/speaking at this event.
***Welcome! Babcock Labs is hosting this event.
Copyright © 2017 Babcock Laboratories, Inc., All rights reserved.

Our mailing address is:
P.O. Box 432
Riverside, CA 92502
*|MC:SUBJECT|*
 
June 2018 | Volume 8 | Issue 6

June Bloom:

Harmful Algal Blooms on the Rise

by Allison Mackenzie, CEO

Diamond Valley Lake in Riverside County is one of the most recent victims of harmful algal blooms, demonstrating that current conditions are ideal for rapid cyanobacterial growth.

The algal bloom – one of the largest ever seen at the lake since 2003 – caused Metropolitan Water District (MWD) to close the lake to all recreational activities on June 21st due to concerns over high cyanobacteria counts.

Cyanobacteria, also known as blue-green algae, are naturally occurring components of freshwater and estuarine ecosystems. While algae and cyanobacteria provide aquatic communities with many benefits, as the old saying goes, “everything in moderation.” Under certain conditions, these organisms can grow rapidly causing “blooms.” Blooms become problematic because algae and cyanobacteria also produce harmful compounds, such as cyanotoxins and aroma compounds, which pose health risks to humans and animals. When blooms threaten human and environmental health, they are referred to as harmful algal blooms... (read more)

PFAS Report Released:

New CDC Data Intensifies Drinking Water Concerns

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently released an 852-page review of the health risks of perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). The study suggests that current health advisories for PFAS, established by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), may not be strict enough to address serious public health risks.

Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS)—also known as Perfluorinated Compounds (PFCs)—are a diverse group of manufactured compounds frequently used as surfactants in industrial, consumer, military, and firefighting applications across the United States, such as Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF) firefighting products, textiles, carpeting, metal plating, paper food packaging, cleaning products, coating additives, and pesticides.

PFAS compounds exhibit distinctive chemical characteristics that make them stable in the environment and resistant to degradation, allowing them to bioaccumulate in soil, sediment, groundwater, and animal tissue over time. Two types of PFAS are particularly persistent: Perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS) and Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA). PFOS and PFOA are fully fluorinated organic compounds which happen... (read more)

Leaders in the Industry:

Babcock Labs Addresses Regulatory Issues 

Next month Babcock Laboratories will help address regulatory issues on Capitol Hill and in Sacramento.

On Wednesday, July 18th, Babcock Labs’ Laboratory Director & Vice President, Brad Meadows, will speak before U.S. representatives in a Congressional Briefing on protecting public health, safety, and the environment. The briefing, sponsored by Congressman Moolenaar, will be presented by the American Council of Independent Laboratories (ACIL), of which Babcock Labs is a member . The topics on which Mr. Meadows will speak include the advancement of green chemistry and new technology through industry collaboration with EPA, as well as protecting our drinking water supply and tracking unregulated contaminants. Other topics to be addressed during the briefing include the invaluable role commercial laboratories play in preserving and protecting the nation’s food supply and safety and supporting adequate supplies of critical medicines.

Concurrently, Babcock Labs’ CEO & President, Allison Mackenzie, will attend the July 18th meeting of the Environmental Laboratory Technical Advisory Committee (ELTAC) in Sacramento... (read more) 

In Case You Missed It:

 

Innovation in the Community: Poly High Wins MWD Solar Cup (read more)

EPA Extends WIFIA Deadline (read more)

May: Water Awareness Month (read more)

Babcock Labs in the Community (learn more)

Babcock Labs Now Women-Owned ESOP! (read more)

EPA Awards Babcock Labs UCMR 4 Small Systems Contract (read more)

Babcock Labs is a Top Workplace! (read more)

 

 

Reminder: Babcock Labs
will be closed on July 4th in
observance of Independence Day 

Laboratory Services
Drinking Water Analysis
Wastewater Analysis
Groundwater Analysis
Stormwater Analysis
Hazardous Waste & Soils Analysis
Food & Beverage Analysis
Field Services 
Data Deliverables
Emergency Services
Special Projects 
 
Quick Links
Our Mission, Vision, and Goals
Online Results 
Technical Trainings & Seminars
Current Topics
Certifications
Request a Quote
Babcock Blog
 
Contact Us

Cathy Iijima 
Director of Client Services
951-653-3351 x 235
ciijima@babcocklabs.com


Contact my Project Manager
 

HEAT ADVISORY:
All UCMR 4 clients are reminded to submit
samples on ice to meet sample temperature acceptance criteria!

 

Please note that Babcock Labs strictly adheres to sample acceptance criteria, pursuant to Standard Methods and regulatory requirements.
Learn more

 

UCMR 4 Webinar Interest:
Have you been unable to
attend one of our UCMR 4 Workshops? Let us know
if you'd be interested in attending a webinar:
I'm interested

_____________________



Ready for UCMR 4?
We are! 
Learn more

Industry Events

View our events calendar 
 

July 
7/8-11 IAFP Annual Meeting – Salt Lake City, UT

August
8/6-10 NEMC Environmental Measurement Symposium - New Orleans, LA
8/8-10 CASA 63rd Annual Conference - Monterey, CA
8/10 San Bernardino County Water Conference - Ontario, CA**
 

*Look for us! Babcock Labs is attending this event.
**Babcock Labs is attending and sponsoring/speaking at this event.
***Welcome! Babcock Labs is hosting this event.
Copyright © 2017 Babcock Laboratories, Inc., All rights reserved.

Our mailing address is:
P.O. Box 432
Riverside, CA 92502
*|MC:SUBJECT|*
 
May 2018 | Volume 8 | Issue 5

Water Awareness Month:

May We All Play Our Part 

by Allison Mackenzie, CEO

May is Water Awareness Month, making it the perfect time to remind our community about the importance of water conservation.

As you know, California is still in the throws of a historic drought. While the State Water Resources Control Board considers permanent water restrictions, there are other steps residents can take to help conserve this precious resource.

Historically, in May as the thermometer begins to jump up, so does water use. Of that water used, "as much as 70 percent... is for outdoor uses such as watering lawns, washing cars and cleaning driveways and patios," according to a recent press release from the Inland Empire Utilities Agency... (read more)

Innovation in the Community:

Poly High School Wins MWD Solar Cup

This month Metropolitan Water District (MWD) held its 16th annual Solar Cup Competition and Riverside's Poly High School won first place in the veteran's division for the third year in a row!

As reported by the Press Enterprise:

The final round of the competition, where students from 38 Southern California high schools rely on the sun’s rays to power boats, was held at Lake Skinner in Winchester.

The Metropolitan Water District of Southern California event featured teams from Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino and San Diego counties. More than 600 students were... (read more)

Water Infrastructure News:

EPA Extends WIFIA Deadline 

Recently the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced a deadline extension for Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (WIFIA) loan applications.

The May 15, 2018 press release from the EPA is provided in full below:

Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Scott Pruitt announced at a meeting with water sector associations that the deadline to submit letters of interest for Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (WIFIA) loans has been extended to July 31, 2018. Administrator Pruitt also sent a letter highlighting the deadline extension to governors of 56 states and territories as well as tribal... (read more) 

In Case You Missed It:

 

Babcock Labs held its first Career Fair (learn more)

Babcock Labs in the Community (learn more)

Babcock Labs celebrated Earth Day (learn more)

Babcock Labs Now Women-Owned ESOP! (read more)

EPA Awards Babcock Labs UCMR 4 Small Systems Contract (read more)

Babcock Labs is a Top Workplace! (read more)

 

 

 

Laboratory Services
Drinking Water Analysis
Wastewater Analysis
Groundwater Analysis
Stormwater Analysis
Hazardous Waste & Soils Analysis
Food & Beverage Analysis
Field Services 
Data Deliverables
Emergency Services
Special Projects 
 
Quick Links
Our Mission, Vision, and Goals
Online Results 
Technical Trainings & Seminars
Current Topics
Certifications
Request a Quote
Babcock Blog
 
Contact Us

Cathy Iijima 
Director of Client Services
951-653-3351 x 235
ciijima@babcocklabs.com


Contact my Project Manager
 

 

 

Please note that Babcock Labs strictly adheres to sample acceptance criteria, pursuant to Standard Methods and regulatory requirements.
Learn more

 

UCMR 4 Webinar Interest:
Have you been unable to
attend one of our UCMR 4 Workshops? Let us know
if you'd be interested in attending a webinar:
I'm interested

_____________________



Ready for UCMR 4?
We are! 
Learn more

Industry Events

View our events calendar 
 

June 
6/6-8 GRA Groundwater Sustainability Summit – Sacramento, CA
6/11-14 AWWA ACE18 – Las Vegas, NV** (booth #15093)

July 
7/8-11 IAFP Annual Meeting – Salt Lake City, UT

August
8/6-10 NEMC Environmental Measurement Symposium - New Orleans, LA
8/8-10 CASA 63rd Annual Conference - Monterey, CA
8/10 San Bernardino County Water Conference - Ontario, CA**
 

*Look for us! Babcock Labs is attending this event.
**Babcock Labs is attending and sponsoring/speaking at this event.
***Welcome! Babcock Labs is hosting this event.
Copyright © 2017 Babcock Laboratories, Inc., All rights reserved.

Our mailing address is:
P.O. Box 432
Riverside, CA 92502
*|MC:SUBJECT|*
 
April 2018 | Volume 8 | Issue 4

Continuing a Legacy:

Babcock Labs in the Community

by Allison Mackenzie, CEO

This month I had the opportunity to represent Babcock Labs at numerous events promoting science education and water quality in our community.

In early April I spoke to students at the Riverside STEM Academy. The Riverside STEM Academy (RSA) is a Riverside Unified School that focuses on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) education. The school serves grades 5-8, with extension plans to include a STEM High School. I was asked to present on Babcock Laboratories—the work we do, its significance for public health and our environment, and the types of careers we offer. It was a treat to meet so many young people who share my love for science and aspire to be our STEM leaders of tomorrow.

I was also asked by Kathryn Uhrich, Dean of the College of Natural and Agricultural Sciences (CNAS) at the University of California (UCR), to speak as a panelist at the college’s Entrepreneurial Panel Event. The event, titled “Bridging the Gap: From Science to C-Suite,” aimed to provide UCR students with information on how to marry science with entrepreneurship.... (read more)

Earth Day 2018:

Rid Our Waterways of Plastic!

Sunday, April 22nd was Earth Day, and this year the Earth Day Network called for us to end plastic pollution. Plastic pollution is poisoning our oceans and land, injuring marine life, and affecting our health, making it a major environmental and public health issue that deserves our attention and action.

Rivers and bays have grown considerably cleaner since the federal Clean Water Act was passed in 1972, however, the act did not account for the growing problem of plastic debris. Three hundred million (300,000,000) tons of fossil-fuel-based plastics are sold each year—90% of which are simply thrown away. A significant percentage of these plastics end up in our landfills and waterways—and eventually our oceans—polluting water sources and wildlife in the process.

As plastics break down, they break down into smaller particles, known as microplastics. Some microplastics are so small that they cannot be filtered out by wastewater treatment plants... (read more)

Filling Up Fast!

Babcock Labs' May Drinking Water Workshop 

Babcock Labs will hold its semi-annual Drinking Water Workshop on Thursday, May 17th. To register, click here. For more information about what the workshop entails, read below:

It is challenging for any sample technician or operator to take a valid sample without first understanding the “why” and “how” behind the drinking water sample. Proper drinking water sampling requires thorough training, extensive knowledge, appropriate resources, and up-to-date techniques. These elements are vital if an organization wishes to maintain scientific integrity and receive data of known and documented quality from its laboratory.

Because this information is so valuable to your organization’s endeavor to protect the public health, Babcock Laboratories has created a Drinking Water Workshop tailored to meet the needs of your staff. The workshop includes... (read more)

In Case You Missed It:

 

"Independence" Day: ACIL Meets on Capitol Hill (read more) 

EPA Calls on States to Take the Lead on Lead (read more)

Babcock Labs Now Women-Owned ESOP! (read more)

California Considers Permanent Water Restrictions (read more)

EPA Awards Babcock Labs UCMR 4 Small Systems Contract (read more)

Babcock Labs is a Top Workplace! (read more)

 

NOW HIRING!
Babcock Labs is
hosting a career fair
on May 9th & 19th
(learn more) 

Laboratory Services
Drinking Water Analysis
Wastewater Analysis
Groundwater Analysis
Stormwater Analysis
Hazardous Waste & Soils Analysis
Food & Beverage Analysis
Field Services 
Data Deliverables
Emergency Services
Special Projects 
 
Quick Links
Our Mission, Vision, and Goals
Online Results 
Technical Trainings & Seminars
Current Topics
Certifications
Request a Quote
Babcock Blog
 
Contact Us

Cathy Iijima 
Director of Client Services
951-653-3351 x 235
ciijima@babcocklabs.com


Contact my Project Manager
 

Reminder:
Babcock Labs
will be closed
on Monday, May 28
in observance of
Memorial Day

 

Please note that Babcock Labs strictly adheres to sample acceptance criteria, pursuant to Standard Methods and regulatory requirements.
Learn more


 



Ready for UCMR 4?
We are! 
Learn more

Industry Events

View our events calendar 
 

May

5/8-11 ACWA Spring Conference – Sacramento, CA

5/17 Babcock Labs Drinking Water Workshop – Riverside, CA***

 

June

6/6-8 GRA Groundwater Sustainability Summit – Sacramento, CA
6/11-14 AWWA ACE18 – Las Vegas, NV** (booth #15093)
 

*Look for us! Babcock Labs is attending this event.
**Babcock Labs is attending and sponsoring/speaking at this event.
***Welcome! Babcock Labs is hosting this event.
Copyright © 2017 Babcock Laboratories, Inc., All rights reserved.

Our mailing address is:
P.O. Box 432
Riverside, CA 92502
*|MC:SUBJECT|*
 
March 2018 | Volume 8 | Issue 3

"Independence" Day:

ACIL Meets on Capitol Hill

by Allison Mackenzie, CEO

Last week I attended the American Council of Independent Laboratories (ACIL) Policies and Practices (P2 ) Conference in Washington, D.C. This annual conference is comprised of educational sessions that combine government relations and business practices in support of ACIL’s mission to provide the independent testing community with advocacy, education, and alliances that enable members to better address environmental and product risks to the public.

Most notably, one full day of the conference was spent on Capitol Hill meeting with various Congressional representatives. In addition to members attending special session meetings, ACIL and its guests delivered a Congressional Briefing on the value of 3rd party independent testing and conformity assessment under the Energy Star program. The briefing, which was sponsored by Congressmen McKinley (R-WV) and Loebsack (D-IA), explained that 3rd party independent testing and conformity assessment are paramount to consumer confidence in the products and resources they use, such as energy-efficient washing machines... (read more)

Pb Eradication:

EPA Calls on States to Take the Lead on Lead

Earlier this month Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Scott Pruitt told reporters that eradicating lead from drinking water is one of his top priorities.

Pruitt said part of the President’s $1.5 trillion plan to bolster the nation’s infrastructure includes investments in aging water infrastructure, which Pruitt believes should focus on eliminating lead in potable water. In his conversation with reporters, however, Pruitt appeared to place the onus on state and local governments, calling on them to invest in such upgrades.

U.S. Representative Dan Kildee (D-Flint Township) criticized Pruitt for lack of a clear plan to reduce lead in drinking water. Kildee has drafted legislation that would reduce the federal Action Level (AL) for lead in drinking water to 5 parts per billion (5 ppb). (read more)

WBE Status:

Babcock Labs Now Women-Owned ESOP! 

On March 8th, International Women's Day, Babcock Laboratories proudly announced its recent designation as a Women-Owned Business! As a 100 percent Employee-Owned company, this status is not only unique, it is historic. It is our understanding that we are the first 100 percent Employee-Owned company (ESOP) to be granted Women Business Enterprise (WBE) status by the Supplier Clearinghouse.

Babcock Labs currently employs 70 talented and dedicated staff members. Of those 70 laboratory and administrative professionals, women make up 63 percent of our total workforce. As a 100 percent employee-owned company, this means that the majority of our owners are women. What's more, women make up 90 percent of our organization's management team. This is rather extraordinary for a STEM-field company and something to be proud of, as women still remain underrepresented in the science and engineering workforce in the United States. (read more)

In Case You Missed It:

Spending Bill Rejects Trump Administration's Proposed EPA Cut (read more) 

California Considers Permanent Water Restrictions (read more)

Quarterly Monitoring for 1,2,3-TCP Begins (read more)

Attend the May 17 Drinking Water Workshop (read more)EPA Awards Babcock Labs UCMR 4 Small Systems Contract (read more)

Babcock Labs is a Top Workplace! (read more)

Laboratory Services
Drinking Water Analysis
Wastewater Analysis
Groundwater Analysis
Stormwater Analysis
Hazardous Waste & Soils Analysis
Food & Beverage Analysis
Field Services 
Data Deliverables
Emergency Services
Special Projects 
 
Quick Links
Our Mission, Vision, and Goals
Online Results 
Technical Trainings & Seminars
Current Topics
Certifications
Request a Quote
Babcock Blog
 
Contact Us

Cathy Iijima 
Director of Client Services
951-653-3351 x 235
ciijima@babcocklabs.com


Contact my Project Manager
 


 

Please note that Babcock Labs strictly adheres to sample acceptance criteria, pursuant to Standard Methods and regulatory requirements.
Learn more


 



Ready for UCMR 4?
We are! 
Learn more

Industry Events

View our events calendar 
 

April

4/11-14 Annual Salmonid Restoration Conference – Fortuna, CA

4/16-18 Annual Water Law Conference – Orlando, FL
4/17-20 CWEA AC18 – Sacramento, CA 

4/19 WEF Drought Conference – San Pedro, CA

 

May

5/8-11 ACWA Spring Conference – Sacramento, CA

5/17 Babcock Labs Drinking Water Workshop – Riverside, CA***

 

June

6/6-8 GRA Groundwater Sustainability Summit – Sacramento, CA
6/11-14 AWWA ACE18 – Las Vegas, NV** (booth #15093)
 

*Look for us! Babcock Labs is attending this event.
**Babcock Labs is attending and sponsoring/speaking at this event.
***Welcome! Babcock Labs is hosting this event.
Copyright © 2017 Babcock Laboratories, Inc., All rights reserved.

Our mailing address is:
P.O. Box 432
Riverside, CA 92502
*|MC:SUBJECT|*
 
Feb 2018 | Volume 8 | Issue 2

Drought Watch:

California Considers Permanent Water Restrictions

by Allison Mackenzie, CEO

The State Water Resources Control Board is considering reinstating and making permanent many of the water restrictions that California enacted during the recent five-year dry spell.

These regulations would potentially impose a $500 fine for wasteful water runoff practices, such as watering landscaping within 48 hours of rainfall or washing a car with a hose that has no shut-off valve. State Water officials say that the primary goal of these rules is to make water conservation a way of life in California.

State officials expect that California will endure longer and more severe dry periods as the planet continues to warm. This past “wet season” has been one of the driest to date. Prior to this week's snowfall, the snowpack across the Sierra Nevada mountain range measured at just 20 percent of average. Most of the state’s water supply originates in the Northern Sierras, and reservoirs depend on the melting snowpack ... (read more)

Regulatory News:

Quarterly Monitoring for 1,2,3-TCP Begins

This first calendar quarter marks the start of state-mandated quarterly monitoring of 1,2,3-TCP.

At the end of last year the State of California Office of Administrative Law (OAL) approved the Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) for 1,2,3-Trichloropropane (1,2,3-TCP) in drinking water, as adopted by the State Water Board on July 18, 2017. The OAL also approved the State Water Board’s request for an early effective date.

As of December 14, 2017, the California MCL for 1,2,3-TCP in drinking water is 0.000005 mg/L (five parts per trillion).

Pursuant to California Code of Regulations, Title 22, Section 64445, water systems must initiate quarterly monitoring for 1,2,3-TCP ... (read more)

Sampling Training:

Attend the Next Drinking Water Workshop 

Babcock Labs will hold its semi-annual Drinking Water Workshop on Thursday, May 17th. To register, click here. For more information about what the workshop entails, read below:

It is challenging for any sample technician or operator to take a valid sample without first understanding the “why” and “how” behind the drinking water sample. Proper drinking water sampling requires thorough training, extensive knowledge, appropriate resources, and up-to-date techniques. These elements are vital if an organization wishes to maintain scientific integrity and receive data of known and documented quality from its laboratory.

Because this information is so valuable to your organization’s endeavor to protect the public health, Babcock Laboratories has created a Drinking Water Workshop tailored to meet the needs of your staff. The workshop includes ... (read more)

In Case You Missed It:

New Year's Resolutions (read more)

New State Law Regarding Lead Testing in Schools (read more)

MCL for 1,2,3-TCP Now in Effect (read more)

EPA Awards Babcock Labs UCMR 4 Small Systems Contract (read more)

Babcock Labs is a Top Workplace! (read more)

Laboratory Services
Drinking Water Analysis
Wastewater Analysis
Groundwater Analysis
Stormwater Analysis
Hazardous Waste & Soils Analysis
Food & Beverage Analysis
Field Services 
Data Deliverables
Emergency Services
Special Projects 
 
Quick Links
Our Mission, Vision, and Goals
Online Results 
Technical Trainings & Seminars
Current Topics
Certifications
Request a Quote
Babcock Blog
 
Contact Us

Cathy Iijima 
Director of Client Services
951-653-3351 x 235
ciijima@babcocklabs.com


Contact my Project Manager
 


 

Please note that Babcock Labs strictly adheres to sample acceptance criteria, pursuant to Standard Methods and regulatory requirements.
Learn more


 



Ready for UCMR 4?
We are! 
Learn more

Industry Events

View our events calendar 
 

March
3/5-7 GRA 16th Biennial Symposium on Managed Aquifer Recharge - San Diego, CA 
3/19-22 AEHS Annual International Conference on Soil, Water, Energy, and Air - San Diego, CA
3/25-27 WateReuse California Annual Conference - Monterey, CA

April

4/11-14 Annual Salmonid Restoration Conference – Fortuna, CA

4/16-18 Annual Water Law Conference – Orlando, FL

4/19 WEF Drought Conference – San Pedro, CA

 

May

5/8-11 ACWA Spring Conference – Sacramento, CA

5/17 Babcock Labs Drinking Water Workshop – Riverside, CA***
 

*Look for us! Babcock Labs is attending this event.
**Babcock Labs is attending and sponsoring/speaking at this event.
***Welcome! Babcock Labs is hosting this event.
Copyright © 2017 Babcock Laboratories, Inc., All rights reserved.

Our mailing address is:
P.O. Box 432
Riverside, CA 92502
*|MC:SUBJECT|*
 
Jan 2018 | Volume 8 | Issue 1

New Year's Resolutions:

Welcoming 2018

by Allison Mackenzie, CEO

It’s 2018 and if you’re like most people, you have come up with a few personal objectives or improvements that you are committed to upholding this year. Often times, these resolutions aren’t new, there is just something about the beginning of a new calendar year that allows us to recalibrate and refocus on our values and goals. In the spirit of renewed focus and commitment, Babcock Labs has a few New Year’s resolutions that we’d like to share with you:

1. First and foremost, we resolve to continue to observe our core values:

Responsiveness: We endeavor to be responsive to the needs of our clients, community, and staff. We make every effort to respond quickly, positively, and honestly when called upon.

Reliability: We endeavor to be relied upon by our clients, community, and staff to consistently meet expectations, act ethically and responsibly, put forth our best effort, and strive for improvement. Earning this trust and confidence is essential to our success.

Relationships: We endeavor to foster meaningful, long-term relationships with our clients, community, and staff. We value integrity, respect, knowledge, equity, accountability, communication, and camaraderie. We aspire to uphold these values in all of our professional relationships.

2. We resolve, as always, to continuously improve our processes and provide... (read more)

Lead Testing:

New State Law Regarding Testing in Schools

Earlier this month the American Water Works Association (AWWA) partnered with the State Water Resources Control Board (State Board) on a webinar concerning the new state law for testing lead in schools.

The webinar focused on the new requirements under AB 746, which requires community water systems to test lead levels in the drinking water of schools that were constructed before 2010. The deadline for these new requirements is July 1, 2019.

The webinar also addressed requirements for SB 1398 and SB 427. SB 1398 requires that by July 1, 2018, public water systems with areas that may have lead user service lines in use in their distribution systems either determine the existence or absence of lead user service lines in these areas and provide that information to the State Board, or provide... (read more)

Regulatory Update:

MCL for 1,2,3-TCP Now in Effect 

In December the State of California Office of Administrative Law (OAL) approved the Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) for 1,2,3-Trichloropropane (1,2,3-TCP) in drinking water, as adopted by the State Water Board on July 18, 2017. The OAL also approved the State Water Board’s request for an early effective date.

As of December 14, 2017, the California MCL for 1,2,3-TCP in drinking water is 0.000005 mg/L (five parts per trillion).

Pursuant to California Code of Regulations, Title 22, Section 64445, water systems must initiate quarterly monitoring for 1,2,3-TCP in the calendar quarter beginning... (read more)

In Case You Missed It:


Year in review: A look back on 2017 (read more)

EPA awards Babcock Labs UCMR 4 Federal Small Systems contract (read more)

Babcock Labs celebrates being employee-owned (read more)

Laboratory Services
Drinking Water Analysis
Wastewater Analysis
Groundwater Analysis
Stormwater Analysis
Hazardous Waste & Soils Analysis
Food & Beverage Analysis
Field Services 
Data Deliverables
Emergency Services
Special Projects 
 
Quick Links
Our Mission, Vision, and Goals
Online Results 
Technical Trainings & Seminars
Current Topics
Certifications
Request a Quote
Babcock Blog
 
Contact Us

Cathy Iijima 
Director of Client Services
951-653-3351 x 235
ciijima@babcocklabs.com


Contact my Project Manager
 


REMINDER:
Babcock Labs will be closed on Monday, February 19th, in observance of Presidents' Day

 

Please note that Babcock Labs strictly adheres to sample acceptance criteria, pursuant to Standard Methods and regulatory requirements.
Learn more


 



Ready for UCMR 4?
We are! 
Learn more

Industry Events

View our events calendar 
 

February
2/12-13 AGWT-AGWA Joint Conference - Ontario, CA
2/12-14 CWEA P3S Conference - Riverside, CA**
2/21-22 CLFP Food Processing Expo - Sacramento, CA
2/27-28 ACWA Washington D.C. Conference - Washington, DC

March
3/5-7 GRA 16th Biennial Symposium on Managed Aquifer Recharge - San Diego, CA 
3/19-22 AEHS Annual International Conference on Soil, Water, Energy, and Air - San Diego, CA
3/25-27 WateReuse California Annual Conference - Monterey, CA

 

*Look for us! Babcock Labs is attending this event.
**Babcock Labs is attending and sponsoring/speaking at this event.
***Welcome! Babcock Labs is hosting this event.
Copyright © 2017 Babcock Laboratories, Inc., All rights reserved.

Our mailing address is:
P.O. Box 432
Riverside, CA 92502
*|MC:SUBJECT|*
View this email in your browser
Dec 2017 | Volume 7 | Issue 11

Year in Review:

A Look Back on 207

by Allison Mackenzie, CEO

For many reasons, 2017 appears to have been the year of dichotomy. For example, California began the year flooded and is ending it ablaze. And while there have been moments where it felt like this year would never end, there have been just as many moments that felt as though someone pressed the “fast forward” button. As 2017 winds down and comes to a close, I would like to recap some of the major events of the year, including some of Babcock Labs’ proudest accomplishments.

January. At the beginning of this year the State Water Resources Control Board (State Water Board) released a notice encouraging California schools to work with their local water providers to sample for the presence of lead in their drinking water. With both ELAP and NELAP certification and over 20 years of experience determining ultra-trace amounts of lead in drinking water using EPA methods, Babcock Labs was happy to help assist public water systems asked to participate in this program.

February. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) reinforced the importance of water quality testing as a means of foodborne illness prevention, after some produce growers expressed pricing concerns. As of September of this year, the FDA’s proposed rule extends the compliance date for water quality testing to January 26, 2020. While water testing requirements may be new to produce growers, Babcock Labs has provided State-certified microbial water testing services to agricultural clients —big and small, public and private—since 1928. We are certain that our experience and team of knowledgeable and friendly professionals will help relieve some of the burden associated with understanding and complying with the water quality and testing requirements outlined in the FSMA final rule.

March. Babcock Labs was featured in the State Water Board’s Environmental Laboratory Accreditation Program (ELAP) newsletter. The newsletter includes a section called, “Environmental Laboratory Corner,” in which...  (read more)

EPA Trusted Lab:

EPA Awards Babcock Labs UCMR 4 Small Systems Contract

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) has selected Babcock Laboratories, Inc. to provide analytical laboratory services in support of the fourth round of its Unregulated Contaminant Monitoring Rule program (UCMR 4). As a contractor to the USEPA, Babcock Labs will conduct UCMR 4 water quality testing for up to 800 community water systems and non-transient, non-community water systems serving between 25 – 10,000 people (i.e., small systems) across the nation.

"The award of this contract is a testament to the water industry's trust and confidence in Babcock Labs," commented Allison Mackenzie, CEO of Babcock Labs. "We have supported the EPA's UCMR program since its inception and are proud to yet again provide our technical expertise to both small and large water systems participating in UCMR 4."

Earlier this year Babcock Labs became fully certified by the USEPA to conduct all UCMR 4 analyses. This means that Babcock Labs is approved to provide UCMR 4 testing services to all public water systems that are required to participate in the three-year program, which officially commences January 2018. (read more)

Babcock Labs is a Top Workplace:

Press Enterprise Names Babcock Labs a 2017 Top Workplace

Babcock Laboratories, Inc. is honored to announce that it has been named as a 2017 Top Workplace in the Inland Empire!  

Today, the Press Enterprise announced the 2017 Top Workplaces in the Inland Empire and Babcock Labs was ranked as a Top Workplace in the small business category. We believe this award serves as well-deserved praise of our employee owners who have made and continue to make Babcock Labs such a great place to work.

The Top Workplaces program was set up by Energage back in 2006 and is based on the belief that “the most successful companies are the ones that employees believe in.”

A company's designation and ranking as a Top Workplace is determined and calculated by ... (read more)

In Case You Missed It:


There may be something lurking in the water: A Halloween tale (read more)

January 1st marks the beginning of UCMR 4 (read more)

Babcock Labs celebrates being employee-owned (read more)

Laboratory Services
Drinking Water Analysis
Wastewater Analysis
Groundwater Analysis
Stormwater Analysis
Hazardous Waste & Soils Analysis
Food & Beverage Analysis
Field Services 
Data Deliverables
Emergency Services
Special Projects 
 
Quick Links
Our Mission, Vision, and Goals
Online Results 
Technical Trainings & Seminars
Current Topics
Certifications
Request a Quote
Babcock Blog
 
Contact Us

Cathy Iijima 
Director of Client Services
951-653-3351 x 235
ciijima@babcocklabs.com


Contact my Project Manager
 


REMINDER:
Babcock Labs will be closed on Monday, December 25th in observance of Christmas Day, and on Monday, January 1st, in observance of the New Year

 

Join us on January 31st for our next UCMR 4 Workshop!
Register now 

 

Our website has been completely revamped!
Check it out now 



Ready for UCMR 4?
We are! 
Learn more

Industry Events

View our events calendar 
 

January
1/24-26 CASA Winter Conference - Palm Springs, CA*
1/31 Babcock Laboratories UCMR 4 Workshop - Riverside, CA***

February
2/12-13 AGWT-AGWA Joint Conference - Ontario, CA
2/12-14 CWEA P3S Conference - Riverside, CA**
2/21-22 CLFP Food Processing Expo - Sacramento, CA
2/27-28 ACWA Washington D.C. Conference - Washington, DC
 

*Look for us! Babcock Labs is attending this event.
**Babcock Labs is attending and sponsoring/speaking at this event.
***Welcome! Babcock Labs is hosting this event.
Copyright © 2017 Babcock Laboratories, Inc., All rights reserved.

Our mailing address is:
P.O. Box 432
Riverside, CA 92502
*|MC:SUBJECT|*
View this email in your browser
Oct 2017 | Volume 7 | Issue 10

There May Be Something Lurking in the Water:

A Halloween Tale

by Allison Mackenzie, CEO

There may be something lurking in the water and it’s far scarier than any ghoul, ghost, or swamp monster – it’s PFAS, or Polyfluoroalkyl Substances. At high concentrations PFAS have been linked to a number of reproductive and developmental, liver and kidney, and immunological health effects, such as low infant birth weight, delayed puberty onset, elevated cholesterol levels, reduced immunologic responses to vaccination, thyroid hormone disruption, and possibly even cancer. What’s scarier is that these compounds are resistant to environmental degradation and prone to bioaccumulation in the blood and organs of humans and other animals!

For decades, PFAS have been used in hundreds of industrial applications and consumer products such as carpeting, apparels, upholstery, food paper wrappings, fire-fighting foams, and metal plating. PFAS have been found at very low levels both in the environment and in the blood samples of the general U.S. population, making them contaminants of emerging concern.

Babcock Labs has over 15 years of experience analyzing contaminants of emerging concern under contract with the EPA and for small water systems. Our PFAS testing capabilities include compounds outlined in EPA Method 537 (Rev 1.1). EPA Method 537 identifies 14 perfluorinated compounds, six of which are included on List 1 of UCMR 3. Babcock Laboratories has also modified Method 537 for use on alternate matrices outside of drinking water, such as soil and groundwater. To meet your specific testing needs...  (read more)

UCMR 4 Workshop:

Technical Training & Seminar

It's almost 2018! Are you ready for the fourth round of the EPA’s Unregulated Contaminant Monitoring Rule?

Join us on January 31, 2018, for Babcock Labs’ UCMR 4 workshop (register now). 

The workshop will include a short course seminar on UCMR 4 methods, analyses, and special requirements, in addition to the responsibilities of public water systems (PWSs). Attendees will also learn about sampling, including bottle type and preservation. Additionally, the workshop will provide real life case studies for review. Attendees are asked to bring a copy of their UCMR 4 schedule to the workshop so that they can receive one-on-one assistance to address their specific UCMR 4 needs. 

Babcock Laboratories is an EPA UCMR 4 approved lab, fully certified to perform all UCMR 4 analyses . Since the inception of the program over 15 years ago, Babcock Labs has been the industry’s trusted laboratory for UCMR testing services. (read more)

ESOP Month:

Babcock Labs Celebrates Being Employee Owned

For over 20 years, the Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) Association and its member companies across the nation have celebrated Employee Ownership Month every October. This is Babcock Labs’ third year as a 100 percent employee-owned company, and therefore our third year taking part in the October ESOP Month celebrations!

The purpose of ESOP Month is to engage and educate employees in their company ownership. As an ESOP, employees have stock in the company which in turn gives our staff greater incentive to provide our clients with exceptional analytical testing services. Essentially, by investing in the quality of the work we provide, each of us here at Babcock Labs is investing in our future and the futures of our fellow coworkers. It’s a win for our clients and it’s a win for our team. Additionally, it’s a win for our community because employee ownership and our ability to stay independent from multi-national network labs keeps revenue local, as our business and employees invest their earnings back into the local economy.

To celebrate this win-win-win situation, our employees participated in a month of ESOP fun! Our employee owners kicked off the start of October with a company breakfast where staff had the opportunity to share a meal together and hear about the month’s festivities. The festivities have included... (read more)

In Case You Missed It:


Babcock Labs is ready for stormwater season. Are you? (read more)

Babcock Labs highlighted EVMWD's drought-conscious water plan (read more)

Babcock Labs hosts numerous technical trainings and informational seminars to benefit its clients (read more)

Laboratory Services
Drinking Water Analysis
Wastewater Analysis
Groundwater Analysis
Stormwater Analysis
Hazardous Waste & Soils Analysis
Food & Beverage Analysis
Field Services 
Data Deliverables
Emergency Services
Special Projects 
 
Quick Links
Our Mission, Vision, and Goals
Online Results 
Technical Trainings & Seminars
Current Topics
Certifications
Request a Quote
Babcock Blog
 
Contact Us

Cathy Iijima 
Director of Client Services
951-653-3351 x 235
ciijima@babcocklabs.com


Contact my Project Manager
 


REMINDER:
Babcock Labs will be closed for Thanksgiving

 

Join us on November 15th for our next Drinking Water Workshop!
Register now 

 

Our website has been completely revamped!
Check it out now 



Ready for UCMR 4?
We are! 
Learn more

Industry Events

View our events calendar 
 

November
11/15 Babcock Laboratories Drinking Water Workshop - Riverside, CA*** 
11/28-12/1 ACWA Fall Conference - Anaheim, CA 
 

*Look for us! Babcock Labs is attending this event.
**Babcock Labs is attending and sponsoring/speaking at this event.
***Welcome! Babcock Labs is hosting this event.
Copyright © 2017 Babcock Laboratories, Inc., All rights reserved.

Our mailing address is:
P.O. Box 432
Riverside, CA 92502

*|MC:SUBJECT|*
View this email in your browser
Sept 2017 | Volume 7 | Issue 9

Technical Training & Seminars:

Drinking Water Workshop, UCMR 4 Workshop, & More

by Allison Mackenzie, CEO

Thank you to everyone who attended our UCMR 4 Workshop this month – the event was completely sold out! With UCMR 4 just around the corner, we are happy that we were able to inform you about the methods, analyses, special requirements, and responsibilities of the newest round of the Unregulated Contaminant Monitoring Rule (UCMR 4) and answer your questions.

I personally received feedback on the workshop from one of our clients who said, “I intend to present the information to my department and would like to emphasize how prepared your laboratory is for the study and of how much project management Babcock can provide.”

Due to the popularity of this workshop, some organizations who wished to attend were unable to do so which is why I am pleased to announce that we will hold another UCMR 4 Workshop on January 31st, 2018! Click here to learn more and register now.

Yet another popular workshop we hold is our semi-annual Drinking Water Workshop. Like UCMR 4, the last time we held this workshop it was sold out. I am happy to announce that our next Drinking Water Workshop will be held on November 15th, 2017. Our Drinking Water Workshop includes a short course seminar, interactive training, and up to three contact hours. Click here to learn more and register now.... (read more)

Regional Spotlight:

EVMWD's Drought-Conscious Water Plan 

Elsinore Valley Municipal Water District (EVMWD) has released its proposed Drought Contingency Plan in response to expected supply shortages and demand increases.

Given California’s recent bouts with extreme drought, it is vital that water agencies develop short-term and long-term plans that factor in drought conditions, water supply, and population needs. The Press Enterprise recently published an article on EVMWD’s Drought Contingency Plan, which reads as follows:

While wet weather last winter and spring ended a half-decade of drought in California, a water district that serves much of southwestern Riverside County is preparing for future dry years and water shortages.

Anticipating customer demand to double by 2040 as its water supply shrinks, the Elsinore Valley Municipal Water District has created a proposed Drought Contingency Plan in conjunction.

The 178-page plan prepared by consulting firm Civiltec Engineering is now available for public review on the district’s website and was presented to the agency’s Board of Directors on Thursday, Sept. 14, in anticipation of full adoption later this year... (read more)

Stormwater Preparedness:

Are You Ready for Stormwater Season?

 Stormwater season is upon us! Under the current Industrial General Permit (IGP) permit holders are required to collect and analyze stormwater samples from each discharge location for two Qualified Stormwater Events (QSEs) within the first half of each reporting year (July 1 to December 31), and two (2) QSEs within the second half of each reporting year (January 1st to June 30th).

QSE is defined as a precipitation event that produces discharge from any industrial drainage area proceeded by 48 hours with no discharge. QSE discharges can start the night before, within 12 hours of facility operational start time. Stormwater sampling requirements under the IGP instruct that all samples be collected within the first 4 hours of discharge.

All Dischargers are required to submit and certify all reports electronically...(read more)

In Case You Missed It:


Babcock Labs presented at the National Environmental Monitoring Conference in Washington, D.C. (read more)

Babcock Labs is fully approved to perform all UCMR 4 analyses (read more ) and recently held a UCMR 4 Workshop  (read more)

Babcock Labs participated in beta testing of the State's new LTS Portal and was one of the few labs to be first registered on the Portal (read more)

Laboratory Services
Drinking Water Analysis
Wastewater Analysis
Groundwater Analysis
Stormwater Analysis
Hazardous Waste & Soils Analysis
Food & Beverage Analysis
Field Services 
Data Deliverables
Emergency Services
Special Projects 
 
Quick Links
Our Mission, Vision, and Goals
Online Results 
Technical Trainings & Seminars
Current Topics
Certifications
Request a Quote
Babcock Blog
 
Contact Us

Cathy Iijima 
Director of Client Services
951-653-3351 x 235
ciijima@babcocklabs.com


Contact my Project Manager
 

 

Join us on November 15th for our next Drinking Water Workshop!
Register now 

 

Our website has been completely revamped!
Check it out now 



Ready for UCMR 4?
We are! 
Learn more

Industry Events

View our events calendar 
 

October
3-4 Groundwater Resources Association of California Annual Conference - Sacramento, CA
4-6 WaterSmart Innovations - Las Vegas, NV
23-26 AWWA Cal-Nev Fall Conference - Reno, NV

November
15 Babcock Laboratories Drinking Water Workshop  - Riverside, CA***
15-18 ACWA Fall Conference - Anaheim, CA
 

*Look for us! Babcock Labs is attending this event.
**Babcock Labs is attending and sponsoring/speaking at this event.
***Welcome! Babcock Labs is hosting this event.
Copyright © 2017 Babcock Laboratories, Inc., All rights reserved.

Our mailing address is:
P.O. Box 432
Riverside, CA 92502

 

*|MC:SUBJECT|*
View this email in your browser
Aug 2017 | Volume 7 | Issue 8

Industry Experts:

Babcock Labs to Present at NEMC

by Allison Mackenzie, CEO

This month Babcock Laboratories, a leader in the environmental testing industry, attended the National Environmental Monitoring Conference (NEMC). Both our Senior Chemist, David Schiessel, and our Corporate Communications Director, Alexandra Chrystal, gave presentations at this year’s meeting, which took place August 7th - 11th in Washington, D.C.

Mr. Schiessel contributed two oral presentations and one poster presentation on his innovative research and method development concerning the analysis of perfluorinated compounds (PFCs—also known as PFAS). Given the health risks PFCs pose to the public and environment, it is important that laboratories have the capability to detect these types of analytes even when they are not specifically looking for them. For this reason, Mr. Schiessel has focused his research and development efforts on non-targeted suspect screening strategies using low resolution LC-MS-MS, and will present his data and findings at the conference. You can read more about Mr. Schiessel’s research and method development efforts in an earlier article.

Ms. Chrystal gave an oral presentation on effectively communicating scientific information, the theme of this year’s conference. Her presentation identified common challenges ... click here to read more.

UCMR 4 Workshop:

Technical Training & Seminar

Are you preparing for the fourth round of the EPA’s Unregulated Contaminant Monitoring Rule? Join us on September 21st for Babcock Labs’ UCMR 4 workshop (click here to register now). 

The workshop will include a short course seminar on UCMR 4 methods, analyses, and special requirements, in addition to the responsibilities of public water systems (PWSs). Attendees will also learn about sampling, including bottle type and preservation. Additionally, the workshop will provide real life case studies for review. Attendees are asked to bring a copy of their UCMR 4 schedule to the workshop so that they can receive one-on-one assistance to address their specific UCMR 4 needs. 

Babcock Laboratories is an EPA UCMR 4 approved lab, fully certified to perform all UCMR 4 analyses. Since the inception of the program over 15 years ago, Babcock Labs has been the industry’s trusted laboratory for UCMR testing services. Click here to read more.

PFAS/PFCs Testing:

Analysis of Polyfluoroalkyl Substances 

Did you know that Babcock Laboratories’ scope of testing services include the analysis of Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS)—also known as Perfluorinated Compounds (PFCs)? 

PFAS are a diverse group of manufactured compounds frequently used as surfactants in industrial, consumer, military, and firefighting applications across the United States, such as Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF) firefighting products, textiles, carpeting, metal plating, paper food packaging, cleaning products, coating additives, and pesticides. PFAS compounds exhibit distinctive chemical characteristics that make them stable in the environment and resistant to degradation, allowing them to bioaccumulate in soil, sediment, groundwater, and animal tissue over time.  

Babcock Labs has over 15 years of experience analyzing contaminants of emerging concern under contract with the EPA and for small water systems. Our PFAS testing capabilities include... click here to read more.

In Case You Missed It:


Babcock Labs is fully approved to perform all UCMR 4 analyses (read more)

CA ELAP update: State Board considers final recommendations (read more)

Babcock Labs held TEAM Event on drinking water regulatory updates and conservation (read more)

Laboratory Services
Drinking Water Analysis
Wastewater Analysis
Groundwater Analysis
Stormwater Analysis
Hazardous Waste & Soils Analysis
Food & Beverage Analysis
Field Services 
Data Deliverables
Emergency Services
Special Projects 
 
Quick Links
Our Mission, Vision, and Goals
Online Results 
Technical Trainings & Seminars
Current Topics
Certifications
Request a Quote
Babcock Blog
 
Contact Us

Cathy Iijima 
Director of Client Services
951-653-3351 x 235
ciijima@babcocklabs.com


Contact my Project Manager
 


REMINDER:
Babcock Labs will be closed on Monday, September 4th in observance of Labor Day

 

Our website has been completely revamped!
Check it out now 



Ready for UCMR 4?
We are! 
Learn more

Industry Events

View our events calendar 
 
September 
5-8 Floodplain Management Association (FMA) Annual Conference - Long Beach, CA 
10-13 Annual WateReuse Symposium - Phoenix, AZ
18-20 WaterPro Conference - Reno, NV
21 Babcock Labs UCMR 4 Workshop - Riverside, CA***
26-28 Annual Tri-State Seminar - Las Vegas, NV**

October 
3-4 Groundwater Resources Association of California Annual Conference - Sacramento, CA 
4-6 WaterSmart Innovations - Las Vegas, NV
23-26 AWWA Cal-Nev Fall Conference - Reno, NV
 

*Look for us! Babcock Labs is attending this event.
**Babcock Labs is attending and sponsoring/speaking at this event.
***Welcome! Babcock Labs is hosting this event.
Copyright © 2017 Babcock Laboratories, Inc., All rights reserved.

Our mailing address is:
P.O. Box 432
Riverside, CA 92502