Spring 2008
Articles	News from the Field Wastewater Treatment Plant Groundskeeping By Scott Renslow, Senior Technical Adviser, USABlueBook As spring approaches, it’s once again time to retire the plows, snow shovels and salt until next winter, and to develop a plan for groundskeeping duties at your water/wastewater treatment facility. Many facilities have set plans that include daily, weekly, monthly and annual groundskeeping tasks. Groundskeeping budgets and duties may vary considerably based on the size of the community. Some larger municipalities hire contractors or seasonal help to do the groundskeeping, while at smaller facilities the regular staff add groundskeeping to their long list of duties. Here’s a list of tasks to consider in the spring: First and foremost, make sure employees know how to safely operate passengerand tractor-type lawn mowers. In some cases, employees need to maintain or service mowers as well. Servicing mowers can involve removing old cutter blades and installing new ones; adjusting or replacing belts on the cutting units; engine tune ups and oil changes. Early in the season, prune trees, shrubs and hedges, and rake leaves and grass. Later in the spring, water and fertilize lawns and plants; spray plants and flowers with insecticides; and transplant and cultivate plants, flowers and shrubs. Trim grass and weeds along walks, driveways, buildings, planted areas, tanks and/or drying beds. Spread topsoil either manually or with a tractor over dug-up areas where water main breaks have occurred during the winter months. Annually drain and inspect clarifiers and aeration tanks. This is also a great time for diffuser maintenance and replacement. Drain and clean chlorine contact tanks, as well as spray a mild solution of water and bleach onto the walls, and power wash areas that need it. As needed, paint buildings and equipment, since most larger municipalities have well houses and lift stations placed throughout their respective communities. If these are not maintained, rest assured—you’ll be getting complaints. USABluebook features a new Grounds Maintenance section in our 119 Master Catalog. Make sure to check it out for the best groundskeeping equipment! Copyright © 2008, USABlueBook®, All rights reserved.