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National Research Center for Coal & Energy
P.O. Box 6064
Evansdale Drive
West Virginia University
Morgantown, WV 26506
ph 304/293-2867
fax 304/293-3749
NRCCE Enquiries

NRCCE News

Announcements

WVU-based consortium implements cutting edge hybrid vehicle training

Program leads to certification for hybrid and electric vehicle propulsion system instructors

MORGANTOWN, WV, JUNE 22 – The National Alternative Fuels Training Consortium (NAFTC), headquartered at West Virginia University, is playing a key role in preparing Americans for increased use of hybrid and electric vehicles by offering certification training for propulsion systems instructors.

Members of the consortium from throughout the US will journey to Morgantown for the new hybrid vehicle training program developed in partnership with Automotive Research and Design, Inc. (AR&D), a technology company that specializes in the development of training materials that support electric vehicles, hybrid electric vehicles and plug-in hybrid electric vehicle propulsion systems.

Al Ebron, NAFTC executive director, explained that, "With the growing interest in vehicles powered by electric drive, there is a significant need for training more people on how to use and maintain the propulsion systems. This training package was designed and is presented to train the people who will end up teaching others."

He said that NAFTC members, who are primarily from other universities and community colleges, will be in Morgantown June 22-26 to attend the first “train-the- trainer” session. The training will prepare the participants to return to their own schools to implement the course into their automotive programs or teach a growing number of independent garage owners and automobile dealers who wish to learn more about maintaining the new propulsion systems.

"The course will also ultimately benefit high school instructors and other target audiences," Ebron said. "The initiative will allow the trainer a great deal of flexibility to offer classes from 1-5 days in length for adult learners or as a semester or multi-semester class for students."

NAFTC is a nationwide training organization that develops curricula and conducts training, and conducts education and outreach activities, on alternative fuel and advanced technology vehicles and related technologies. With National Training Centers located nationwide from Maine to California, each center provides Training with Impact through its experienced instructors and real-world shop facilities. Numerous other members from secondary schools, small businesses, government, and industry also support the NAFTC's mission. For additional information on the NAFTC, visit www.naftc.wvu.edu or call 304-293-7882.

Contact: Judy Moore, National Alternative Fuels Training Consortium, West Virginia University, 304/293-7882 or 304/216-3021

Washington Coal Club Welcomes WVU Expert to Discuss Renewable Energy Production on Mined Lands in Appalachia

Morgantown, WV—Paul Ziemkiewicz, director of the West Virginia Water Research Institute (WVWRI) of the WVU National Research Center for Coal and Energy, spoke to the Washington Coal Club about the work the WVWRI is doing that would help keep energy production a viable part of the Appalachian economy after coal is mined. The WCC meets monthly to hear from experts about the latest trends in energy.

Ziemkiewicz is recognized nationally and internationally for his work in mine land reclamation. In his presentation, Options for Post Mining Land use in Southern West Virginia, Ziemkiewicz described WVWRI studies to develop a framework for the establishment of sustainable energy production on mine-scarred lands. Many of these formerly mined sites offer outstanding opportunities for the development of renewable energy resources such as biomass, wind, and solar power. The strategy has the potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and lessen our dependence on foreign sources of energy while helping to support rural economies, said Ziemkiewicz.

Ziemkiewicz's presentation is available at:
http://wvwri.nrcce.wvu.edu/docs/Washington_Coal_Club_10Jun09.pdf

The West Virginia Water Research Institute, a program of the National Research Center for Coal and Energy at WVU, coordinates programs focused on preserving and restoring the natural environment through research and partnerships with industry, government agencies, academia and the public. Using the expertise of faculty from across the campus of WVU, many of the Institute's programs focus on solving environmental problems associated with energy production in the Appalachian Region.

The Washington Coal Club is a District of Columbia non-profit organization which meets monthly to provide a forum with knowledgeable speakers to discuss coal and industry related matters. The diverse membership includes coal producers, users and transporters, federal and state legislators, associations focused on coal's role in the American economy, researchers, and policy makers.

For more information about WVWRI programs and services contact Dave Saville at 304-293-2867 x 5458.

Posted June 16, 2009

Spring Issue of West Virginia Brownfields Post Now Online

Inside this issue:

Access the pdf file at:

http://wvwri.nrcce.wvu.edu/programs/nwvbac/docs/2009_Spring-Quarterly-Newsletter.pdf

The Northern West Virginia Brownfields Assistance Center is a program of the West Virginia Water Research Institute, a division of the National Research Center for Coal & Energy at West Virginia University.

Posted June 10, 2009

NAFTC offers Hybrid Electric Vehicle Train-the-Trainer Course in June and July

Become a Leader in the Industry and Train the Future Now

 

Are you up-to-date on automotive technology? With the rapid advancements of the industry, it is easy to feel left behind and overwhelmed. The National Alternative Fuels Training Consortium (NAFTC) provides education and training programs that will assist you in bringing your knowledge, and/or your automotive program, up-to-date.

The Train-the-Trainer Hybrid and Electric Vehicle Propulsion Systems Course is available June 22-26, 2009 in Morgantown, WV, and July 13-17, 2009 in Madison, WI.

For more information go to:

http://www.naftc.wvu.edu/NAFTC/announcements/green_up_june.html

The NAFTC is a program of the NRCCE headquartered at West Virginia University and consists of National Training Centers (NTCs) located nationwide from New York to California.

Posted June 10, 2009

Newest IOF Monthly Update Available

June Issue Features "The Role of Science & Technology at West Virginia University"

The article is by Curt M. Peterson, West Virginia University's vice president of research and economic development. Access the pdf file at:

http://www.iofwv.nrcce.wvu.edu/publications/updates/2009/June2009.pdf

Posted June 10, 2009

NRCCE's Brownfields program helps WV communities win $1 million in Recovery Act funding

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has awarded a total of $1 million to four communities in northern West Virginia to assess, clean up and revitalize former industrial and commercial sites. The Northern West Virginia Brownfields Assistance Center (NBAC) at West Virginia University (WVU) was instrumental in helping these communities identify projects and find funding to address the problems associated with these sites. These grants will help turn problem properties, known as "brownfields," into productive community assets.

Patrick Kirby, Director of NBAC said, "These communities have worked very hard on their redevelopment vision. This funding will help move their communities to the next stage of revitalization. We're excited to continue assisting these communities as they work to realize their vision."

Funds from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 have been awarded to the City of Moundsville ($200,000) to clean up the Fostoria Glass Plant site where buildings and soil are contaminated; and to the Preston County Economic Development Authority ($200,000) to help assess properties impacted by acid mine drainage and erosion from timber operations. The EPA is providing general funds from its brownfields program to the Brooke-Hancock Regional Planning and Development Council ($400,000) to assess brownfields properties in the former nationally recognized steel manufacturing area; and to the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection (WVDEP; $200,000) to assess hazardous materials brownfield sites with a focus on rural areas such as Ritchie County.

"These communities are initiating a process of effective management of potentially environmentally compromised properties and embracing smart growth initiatives that will improve the quality of life for their residents," said Ken Ellison, Director of the WVDEP Division of Land Restoration. "I am very excited about this expanded opportunity to inventory, assess, plan, remediate, and redevelop brownfield sites. This effort can provide much needed suitable land for development in West Virginia while increasing conservation of open spaces and greenfields."

The Northern West Virginia Brownfields Assistance Center is a program of the West Virginia Water Research Institute, a division of the National Research Center for Coal & Energy at West Virginia University.

For more information on these projects and the services provided by the Northern West Virginia Brownfields Assistance Center, contact:

Patrick Kirby, Director
Northern West Virginia Brownfields Assistance Center
West Virginia University
(phone) 304-293-2867 x 5459, (e-mail) Patrick.Kirby@mail.wvu.edu

Posted May 21, 2009

Member of American Society of Mechanical Engineers Climate Change Task Force:

WVU energy center director among experts offering carbon dioxide recommendations to members of Congress today and tomorrow

Morgantown, W.Va.—Richard Bajura, director of the West Virginia University National Research Center for Coal and Energy, is among a group energy experts meeting today and tomorrow with members of Congress and their staffs to present technology and policy recommendations and goals for reducing carbon dioxide emissions in the energy sector.

The recommendations appear in the American Society of Mechanical Engineering 35-page publication, General Position Statement on Technology and Policy Recommendations and Goals for Reducing Carbon Dioxide Emissions in the Energy Sector, for which Bajura is a co-author.

The report was prepared by ASME's Climate Change Task Force and was released last month. Bajura is the Coal/Power member of the task force.

The ASME report details a variety of options for reducing carbon dioxide emissions in both the power generation and transportation sectors. Climate change researchers link carbon dioxide, a greenhouse gas, to the warming of the Earth. The report notes that, "Coal fuels more than 40 percent of global electricity generation and 50 percent of U.S. electricity" and calls for technologies to capture and store the carbon dioxide, known as CCS technologies.

The report states, "If, as expected, coal maintains a major role in U.S. electric power production, applying CCS technologies to nearly all new coal-based power plants entering service after 2020 would make the largest single contribution towards reducing future U.S. electric sector CO2 emissions."

The full report is available online at:
http://files.asme.org/asmeorg/NewsPublicPolicy/GovRelations/PositionStatements/17971.pdf

Bajura and his colleagues are scheduled to meet with staff members and select members of Congress from the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee; the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee; the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee; the House Committee on Science and Technology; the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure; and, the House Select Committee on Energy Independence and Global Warming.

Contact: Trina Wafle, NRCCE, (304) 293-2867 x5402

Posted May 18, 2009

NRCCE hosting "EPA CO2 Endangerment Findings" webinar

The National Research Center for Coal and Energy has paid the registration fee to show a webinar produced by InfoCast entitled "EPA CO2 Endangerment Finding" on Thursday, April 30, 1-2:30 pm in NRCCE Conference Room 125.

The US Environmental Protection Agency has forwarded to the Whitehouse an "endangerment finding" under the Clean Air Act that would lay the foundation for EPA greenhouse gas emission regulations under the Act. The webinar will feature a panel discussion on these findings.

The endangerment findings, while on the one hand regarded as a Sword of Damocles hanging over a Congress that regards taking on climate change legislation as politically difficult, would also trigger a long process involving numerous mechanisms under the Clean Air Act that ultimately implies a rulemaking proceeding.

Combined with the recently introduced proposed regulation requiring many industries and businesses to report their GHG emissions, the stage is set for the EPA to develop the basis for a greenhouse gas regulatory system.

The panel will discuss the recently announced finding, what the process entails going forward, and the implications for large GHG emitters. The following questions will be addressed:

MODERATOR:
William L. Wehrum, Partner, Hunton & Williams

PANELISTS:
David Bookbinder, Chief Climate Counsel, Sierra Club
Claudia O'Brien, Partner, Latham & Watkins, Co-Chair, Latham & Watkins Climate Change Practice
William Kovacs, Vice President, U.S. Chamber Environmental and Regulatory Affairs Department (invited)

For more information: (304) 293-2867 x5421, tracy.novak@mail.wvu.edu

Posted April 22, 2009

Media Are Invited to Cover Workshop:

Energy Strategies in Challenging Economic Times with Uncertain Environmental Regulations

 

Kelley Goes, West Virginia secretary of commerce, will join representatives from government, industry, academic research and other groups April 22 - 23, at the WVU National Research Center for Coal and Energy (NRCCE) to discuss global and national energy and regulation issues.

[ Read More... ] (pdf file)

Posted April 20, 2009

WVU NRCCE Receives $733,000 DOE Grant

Industries of the Future-WV Creates Energy Efficiency Partnership to Help Regional Industries in WV, PA, OH

 

Industries of the Future-West Virginia (IOF-WV) of the West Virginia University National Research Center for Coal and Energy recently formed an energy efficiency partnership that is the recipient of a three-year grant for $733,000 from the U.S. Department of Energy's Industrial Technologies Program (ITP).

"Energy efficiency can result in a significant cost reduction for businesses and the possibility of additional job creation in the region," said Dr. Bhaskaran Gopalakrishnan, the principal investigator of the project. Gopalakishnan, a WVU Industrial Engineering professor, is the director of the WVU Industrial Assessment Center (IAC) and is the IOF-WV Energy Efficiency Research Fellow.

Project team partners include IOF-WV, the IAC, Energy and Environmental Efficiency Management Inc. of North Potomac, MD, and the North Hampton Community College Energy Management Institute of Bethlehem, PA who will work with regional industries to save energy. The team will work with industries in West Virginia, western Pennsylvania, and eastern Ohio.

"With this funding, we'll help companies create a strategy to achieve up to a 25 pecent energy intensity reduction in 10 years. We'll do this by conducting energy assessments and then developing individualized industrial energy efficiency technology delivery services and programs," said Gopalakrishnan.

"As many as 40 assessments a year are possible at varying levels of complexity to address the needs of the clients," said Gopalakrishnan. "Some will be as simple as a phone consultation. Others will be more complex energy assessments and strategies that will work toward the 25 percent energy intensity reduction goal."

"This project also lays the groundwork for the development of effective energy assessment processes, an energy efficiency knowledge center and subsequently a model for business entrepreneurs," he added.

Companies and other organizations participating at the current time are:

Additional companies will be added as the project proceeds through the it's marketing and outreach component.

"We will be advertising the energy efficiency audits and technical resources at six regional workshops, a series of local and statewide presentations, on-site visits, and the project website," said Kathleen Cullen, IOF-WV program coordinator. "We'll be showcasing our success stories in an electronic newsletter that will be distributed to over 2,000 industrial contacts and providing ongoing information to media outlets and state and local publications."

The IOF-WV partnership project was one of 12 applicants to be awarded grant money totaling $9 million from the U.S. Department of Energy. IOF-WV submitted the proposal through the WV Division of Energy.

"Because we were one of 12 projects chosen, we expect national coverage by the DOE's Save Energy Now and the Industrial Technologies Program," Cullen said.

The grant was awarded through a federal competitive process and builds on the success of ITP's Save Energy Now initiative. Applicants were chosen based on their efforts to find industrial facilities that can achieve energy intensity reduction of a least 2.5 to 3 percent annually over 10 years.

The DOE provided $733,000 of grant funding for the project with the NRCCE adding $225,000 in cost sharing, giving a project total of $958,000.

For more information on the program, businesses can contact, Kathleen Cullen, IOF-WV program coordinator, at 304-293-2867 x5426 or go to the website at www.iofwv.nrcce.wvu.edu.

IOF-WV is West Virginia's industrial energy efficiency program under a partnership between the West Virginia Division of Energy and the WVU National Research Center for Coal and Energy. The goal of IOF-WV is to assess high priority research needs and develop projects that improve energy efficiency and environmental performance of manufacturers.

Since 1997 when IOF-WV was established as the first state-level IOF program , IOF-WV teams have obtained $23,731,956 in competitively awarded federal and state funding and $10,898,443 in non-federal cost share for a cumulative R&D value to the state of $34,630,399.

Access IOF-WV website

IOF-WV:

Press Release Contact: Kathleen Cullen, Industries of the Future-WV
Kathleen.Cullen@mail.wvu.edu (e-mail), (304) 293-2867 x5426 (office phone)

Posted April 9, 2009

NAFTC Offers Spring Training

 

The National Alternative Fuels Training Consortium (NAFTC) is the only nationwide training organization dedicated to improving air quality and decreasing U.S. dependence on foreign oil by promoting, supporting, and expanding the use of alternative fuel and advanced technology vehicles. This spring, NAFTC offers a variety of training. Please see the up-and-coming schedule below. Click on the links for more information.

CNG Fuel Systems Inspector Training
Tuesday, May 19 and Wednesday, May 20

The training courses listed above will take place at:

National Alternative Fuels Training Consortium (NAFTC)
West Virginia University
1100 Frederick Lane
Morgantown, WV 26508

Directions: http://www.naftc.wvu.edu/NAFTC/about/driving.html

For more information and updates about upcoming NAFTC training in WV and other states go to: http://www.naftc.wvu.edu/NAFTC/training/Training_Agenda.cfm

NAFTC is a program of the NRCCE headquartered at West Virginia University and consists of National Training Centers (NTCs) located nationwide from New York to California.

Posted April 8, 2009

New Educational Materials for Drinking Water Professionals

 

The National Environmental Services Center (NESC) is pleased to offer these new educational materials, mostly dedicated the wellhead protection. Shipping charges apply to all orders. To place an order, please note the product number then call (800) 624-8301 or (304) 293-4191. Orders also may be faxed to (304) 293-3161 or sent via e-mail to ndwc_orders@mail.nesc.wvu.edu.

Wellhead Protection: New Well Requirements
This fact sheet explains the special requirements municipal water suppliers must address when adding a new well to their system. Produced by the Minnesota Department of Health, this document also describes the area delineation and assessment of preliminary wellhead protection. Product# is DWFSMG122 Cost: $0.15

Protect Your Family: Test Your Well's Water Quality Today, A Guide to Water Quality Testing for Private Wells in Rhode Island
If you have a private well as a drinking water source, water quality testing is important to you and your family. Some contaminants pose a risk to human health. This pamphlet, produced by the Rhode island Department of Health, describes the recommended tests for the well water. Information about when to test and what the tests tell you is included. Product# is DWBRPE372 Cost: $0.30

Ground Water--"Buried Treasure"
As rain falls to the ground, it moves into the spaces between the soil particles. This is ground water. Used This 4-page fact sheet, produced by the Ground Water Protection Council, explains the basics of ground water use and describes the major threats to ground water quality, The various public agencies that currently oversee ground water protection are listed as well as some practical ways that hoemowneners can join in the efforts. DWFSPE369 Cost: $0.60

Your Household Water Quality: Nitrate in Water
High nitrate levels in your drinking water can cause a condition called methemoglobinemia or blue baby syndrome and impacts not only babies but older people, pregnant women and people who have low stomach acidity. This fact sheet, produced by the University of Georgia, Cooperative Extension Service, gives the homeowners information about what causes nitrate contamination and what they can do if their well tests high in nitrate. Product# is DWFSPE368 Cost: $0.30

Protecting Your Well and Wellhead
Proper protection of your well and wellhead is essential for the health of your family, yourself, and your neighbors. This fact sheet describes the six principles of well head protection developed at the University of Georgia. Using these guide lines will help ensure the safety of your well water. DWFSPE367 Cost: $0.30

Wellhead Protection for Private Domestic Wells
A good supply of fresh water is essential to human existence. It is vital to do everything possible to protect your well and the surrounding area from potential sources of pollution. This article, written by Anthony W. Tyson, Extension Engineer with the University of Georgia, describes the six principles of well head protection: proper well siting, proper well construction, keeping contaminates away, backflow prevention, sealing abandoned wells, and testing well water. Product# is DWFSPE366 Cost: $1.05

Watershed Planning From Start to Finish
This full-color booklet produced by the National Environmental Services Center, presents a four-part series on watershed approaches to water quality problems. Product# is DWBLCS04 Cost $1.50

Ground Water Rule Triggered and Representative Monitoring: A Quick Reference Guide
The purpose of the federal Ground Water Rule(GWR) is to reduce the risk of illness caused by microbial contamination in public ground water systems. The purpose of triggered source water monitoring is to evaluate whether the presence of total coliform in the distribution system is due to fecal contamination in the ground water source. This fact sheet produced by the USEPA provides the regulatory details for a drinking water system, including sampling requirements, exceptions to the requirements and notification requirements in the event that a fecal-positive sample is collected. Product# is DWFSRG118 Cost: Free

Ground Water Rule Sample Collection and Transport: A Quick Reference Guide
The Ground Water Rule requires that systems that do not provide 4-log treatment of viruses for all their ground water sources collect at least one source water sample after detection of total coliform in a routine Total Coliform Rule sample. This fact sheet produced by the USEPA provides authoritative details about the sampling location and the sample collection procedures required in this event. Product# is DWFSRG119 Cost: Free

Wellhead Protection Area Delineation Fact Sheet
The fundamental goal of wellhead protection is to prevent contaminants from entering the water supply. To do this, you must first determine where the water supply is coming from. The process to determine the wellhead protection area is then delineated using size, shape, orientation, and location. This fact sheet from the Minnesota Department of Health breaks down the delineation process into 6 easy-to-follow steps. Product# is DWFSMG124 Cost: $0.30

Evaluating Proposed Stormwater Infiltration Projects in Vulnerable Wellhead Protection Areas
Infiltration practices redirect storm water into the subsurface where it becomes ground water. Ground water often is a source of drinking water, so it is wise to plan storm water infiltration projects carefully, especially in vulnerable wellhead protection areas. This booklet produced by the Minnesota Department of Health describes suggested considerations for evaluating these infiltration projects. Product# is DWBMG123 Cost: $1.65

General Goals and Requirements of Wellhead Protection Q&A
This booklet, produced by the Minnesota Department of Health's Drinking Water Protection Section, offers answers to some of the most common questions that communities might have about wellhead protection. DWFSOM130 Cost: $0.60

Wellhead Protection Tips for Small Public Water Systems
Small public water systems such as residential subdivisions, apartment buildings, or schools, should take steps to protect their wells from contamination. This environmental fact sheet produced by the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services describe the six steps required to achieve protection. Product# is DWFSOM132 Cost: $0.60

Nitrate Monitoring Requirements: Community and Non-Community Water Systems
This poster, produced by the USEPA, serves as a reference for how small water systems should sample for nitrates. Instructions are included in the event that nitrate is found and violation limits are defined. Product# is DWPSOM131 Cost: $0.00.

Protect Your Family: Test Your Well's Water Quality Today--A Guide to Water Quality Testing for Private Wells (Massachusetts)
If you have a private well as a drinking water source, water quality testing is important to you and your family. Some contaminants pose a risk to human health. This pamphlet, produced by the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection, Drinking Water Program, describes the recommended tests for the well water. Information about when to test and what the tests tell you is included. Product# is DWBRPE371 Cost: $0.30

Mapping Your Wellhead Protection Area
If we know what may pollute our water supplies, we can take steps to prevent contamination.This fact sheet, produced by the University of Maine Cooperative Extension, is for homeowners interested in protecting their wells from contamination. Product# is DWFSPE370 Cost: $0.30

Source Water Assessment & Protection Workshop Guide (Second Edition)
This workshop is designed to provide community representatives with information about source water assessment and protection. This book describes a seven part workshop and includes lessons plans along with overheads and suggested discussion topics for conducting the workshop. This sizable publication is produced by The Groundwater Foundation. Product# is DWBLPE374 Cost: $17.60.

Based at West Virginia University's NRCCE, NESC is a national leader in the areas of drinking water, wastewater, environmental training, solid waste, infrastructure resilience, and utility management in small and rural communities. NESC's engineers and technical experts have been at the forefront of septic system technologies for nearly 30 years. To learn more about NESC, call (800) 624-8301 or visit www.nesc.wvu.edu.

Posted April 8, 2009

Watershed Groups Seek to Share Information

Take advantage of the good ideas in this booklet: Watershed Planning - from Start to Finish

 

Morgantown, W.Va.—Water data everywhere and not a byte to share was the lament of organizers of the West Virginia Watershed Network who met on March 17 at West Virginia University National Research Center for Coal and Energy to do something about sharing access to data.

"It takes time and money to gather water quality samples and save that information in databases" said Rick Buckley, branch chief, field support, U.S. Office of Surface Mining. "The Watershed Network thought a forum like this to share data could help avoid duplication of effort and expenses," he said. The West Virginia Watershed Network is an informal group of state and federal agencies, non-profit groups such as local watershed organizations, and research organizations such as the West Virginia Water Research Institute of the WVU NRCCE, who hosted the one-day conference. The watershed organization works collaboratively to support and empower local residents in their efforts toward sustainable management of local water resources.

"WVWRI is happy to host this event because it's in our interest as a research organization to promote sharing of data. Those of us in research feed on data to gain new insights into water quality issues. Plus we all save money and time by sharing," said Brady Gutta, WVWRI research associate.

Friends of the Cheat watershed group reviewed their data management and assessment of water quality in the Cheat River watershed. FOC uses GIS in spatially relating the data. "This information helps us to prioritize our restoration efforts to address acid mine drainage," explained Keith Pitzer of Friends of the Cheat.

"Restoration efforts upstream of Cheat Lake offer benefits for all those who enjoy use of the lake. Fishing, for example, was once impossible because of the acid mine drainage in the watershed," he said. Fishing tournaments now are held routinely in the lake.

Other presentations were made by the U.S. Geological Survey on its water flow gauges and associated database and by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency on its Water Quality Exchange database. The WV Department of Agriculture talked about its robust monitoring program that has collected nearly 26,000 samples in West Virginia’s eastern panhandle over the last ten years.

WV Department of Environmental Protection experts spoke about water monitoring data with regard to TMDLs which set the amount of pollutants discharged into a stream, the Marcellus Shale where gas production may affect water quality, and selenium which is known to cause problems in aquatic life.

The WV DEP also presented information about ongoing watershed assessments, the Abandoned Mine Lands program, the special reclamation bond forfeiture program, the DEP's geographic information system, and information regarding NPDES program requirements for coal mining permits and other industry operations. The WV Division of Natural Resources presented information about fisheries and wetlands and the statewide fish and habitat classification project that will assist with making decisions about West Virginia’s aquatic resources.

The WV Department of Health and Human Services discussed drinking water contaminant data availability under the Safe Drinking Water Act. Access to the data will be available soon on the Drinking Water Watch website. Information about drinking water violations is currently available on the US EPA website: http://www.epa.gov/enviro/html/sidwis/.

Organizers said that about 80 people attended the event. Presentations will be available online at: http://www.wvca.us/wvwn/

Posted March 19, 2009

Working with Watershed Groups?

Take advantage of the good ideas in this booklet: Watershed Planning - from Start to Finish

 

Morgantown, W.Va.—In 2007, the National Environmental Services Center (NESC) published a four-part series in On Tap magazine about watershed approaches to water quality problems. The series covered:

Each article in the series includes a case study of the Friends of Deckers Creek, a West Virginia watershed group, chronicling how that group addressed the topics in the article.

Hardcopy
To order your copy of this booklet, call (800) 624-8301 and request item #DWBLCS04. The booklet cost $1.50 (plus shipping) for the general public. SMART communities and trainers can order it for free.

Online
Download a free copy of Watershed Planning - From Start to Finish Skipping Stones (pdf file, 4.9 MB)

You may also place your order by e-mail at info@mail.nesc.wvu.edu.

For more information download and view watershed articles online on the SMART About Water site at http://www.nesc.wvu.edu/smart/sourcewater.cfm.

The NESC also offers this
Watershed Information page.

Based at the West Virginia University NRCCE, NESC is a national leader in the areas of drinking water, wastewater, environmental training, solid waste, infrastructure resilience, and utility management in small and rural communities. NESC's engineers and technical experts have been at the forefront of septic system technologies for 30 years. To learn more about NESC, call (800) 624-8301 or visit http://www.nesc.wvu.edu.

Posted March 11, 2009

NESC Develops Free PSAs

Public Service Announcements Aid Community Water Protection

 

Morgantown, W.Va.—The National Environmental Services Center (NESC) at WVU announces the availability of three video public service announcements (PSAs) about the importance of septic system maintenance to the homeowner, the environment and water quality. Funded by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the PSAs reflect NESC's ongoing commitment to effective wastewater treatment and source water protection.

NESC PSAs

View and Download the NESC PSAs

Presented in a humorous light, each brief video drives home the message that homeowners can for safeguard our drinking water through proper septic tank operation and maintenance.

"As many as one-fourth of all new houses in the U.S. have septic or other onsite systems to treat their wastewater," says Gerald Iwan, Ph.D., NESC's executive director. "Therefore, proper maintenance of these systems to prevent costly failures makes particular economic sense today, as well as being an important component to protecting source water quality and the public health. Because we live in a visual age and many, many people get information from television and the Web, it just makes sense to help spread the message through these brief PSAs."

NESC encourages communities to freely use these brief PSAs as part of a public awareness campaign to protect source water.

View and download at the PSAs:
http://www.nesc.wvu.edu/subpages/psa.cfm

Based at the West Virginia University NRCCE, NESC is a national leader in the areas of drinking water, wastewater, environmental training, solid waste, infrastructure resilience, and utility management in small and rural communities. NESC's engineers and technical experts have been at the forefront of septic system technologies for 30 years. To learn more about NESC, call (800) 624-8301 or visit http://www.nesc.wvu.edu.

Posted February 20, 2009

WVU-WVGES Geologist Receives Honor

 

Doug Patchen receives award

Jim Pancake (right), President of the Pittsburgh
Association of Petroleum Geologists, warmly
congratulates Doug Patchen at a ceremony by
the Appalachian Geological Society honoring
Patchen's distinguished career.

Morgantown, W.Va.—Douglas G. Patchen, an internationally respected geologist with West Virginia University and the West Virginia Geological and Economic Survey, was recognized by the Appalachian Geological Society and inducted as an honorary member at its February 11 meeting at the Waterfront Place Hotel.

"Doug has had a remarkable career spanning 43 years of service to the State of West Virginia. He has made significant contributions to our understanding of the geology of the Appalachian Basin," said Katharine Lee Avary, Manager of the Oil & Gas Program and a Senior Geologist at the West Virginia Geological and Economic Survey, who cited him for the honor.

The Appalachian Geological Society promotes the development and exchange of advancements in the science of geology, especially related to oil and gas, in the Appalachian region. "Doug has made extensive contributions over the years to the advancement of the science of geology and the natural gas industry. He exemplifies what the AGS strives to promote among our members," said Kerima Haddad, treasurer and past president of the AGS.

Patchen currently directs the Appalachian Oil and Natural Gas Research Consortium and the Appalachian Region of the Petroleum Technology Transfer Council, both programs of the National Research Center for Coal and Energy at West Virginia University.

Under Patchen's leadership, the AONGRC produced The Atlas of Major Appalachian Gas Plays and the Geologic Play Book for Trenton-Black River Appalachian Basin Exploration among several other studies and the PTTC has sponsored more than 125 workshops in seven states throughout the Appalachian region.

Patchen is also Chief Geologist with the West Virginia Geological and Economic Survey for nearly 40 years. He has authored more than 50 journal articles and presented more than 40 research papers.

Last fall, Patchen received the John T. Galey Memorial Award of the Eastern Section American Association of Petroleum Geologists, its highest honor.

Posted February 18, 2009

WVU Industries of the Future-West Virginia Day set for Feb. 19 at state Capitol

 

Morgantown, W.Va.—Spend a day at the state Capitol during the Industries of the Future-West Virginia (IOF-WV) Day on February 19 and discover how companies around the state are becoming more energy efficient.

"The IOF-WV Day at the State Capitol allows businesses to learn about the services and support available to help them save energy and money," said Carl Irwin, Co-Director of IOF-WV. "Also, continuing a tradition over the past few years, we have been invited by the Senate Economic Development Committee to have companies make presentations about their role in the state's economy, products, and concerns. QuadGraphics and Mountainview Solar and Wind will be among this year's presenters." he said.

Exhibits from 24 manufacturing and technology companies, academia, government agencies and other organizations will be set up from 8:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. in the Capitol rotunda area. This event provides excellent networking opportunities for participants with legislators, government agency personnel, and the public.

The Governor's Award for Excellence in Industrial Energy Efficiency will be awarded by Kelly Goes, Secretary of Commerce, and Jeff Herholdt, Director WV Division of Energy, at the 11:45 a.m. luncheon. QuadGraphics of Martinsburg, WV is the recipient of this year's award.

The event is free and open to the public with a registration fee of $10 only for the luncheon.

To register, contact: Kathleen Cullen at (304) 293-2867 ext. 5426 or e-mail: Kathleen.Cullen@mail.wvu.edu

IOF-WV Day at the State Capitol was originally conceived as a way to bring legislator’s attention to the diversity of products made in the state. IOF-WV, a joint program of the West Virginia Division of Energy, the West Virginia Development Office and the West Virginia University National Research Center for Coal and Energy (NRCCE), works with West Virginia industry to increase energy efficiency, reduce waste, and improve competitiveness.

Visit http://iofwv.nrcce.wvu.edu for more information.

Posted February 18, 2009

WVU Technology Center to Co-host Workshop on Advanced Techniques for Gas Well Logging

 

Morgantown, W.Va.—The Appalachian Basin Petroleum Technology Transfer Council (PTTC) located at West Virginia University’s National Research Center for Coal and Energy is co-hosting a one-day advanced well logging workshop with the Appalachian Geological Society on February 12, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the Waterfront Place Hotel in Morgantown. The workshop will feature experts from Baker Hughes, Schlumberger, and Weatherford.

Instructors will focus on advanced tools designed to give more information about the physical nature and mineral content of an underground resource, whether it is an oil or gas reservoir or a coal seam, without the need for sending rock samples to laboratories for analysis. Information can be gathered immediately at the site saving time. “These well logs are like an EKG of a rock formation,” said Doug Patchen, PTTC director.

Registration is limited to 75 students. The registration fee is $100 for those whose paid registrations are received prior to the February 5 and $125 after February 5.

Registration forms and the workshop schedule are available at http://karl.nrcce.wvu.edu/workshops.html.

Posted February 6, 2009

WVU Experts Meet with Chinese Coal to Liquids Leaders

 

Morgantown, W.Va.—Seven officials from China's leading research and corporate energy organizations met today with West Virginia University faculty and U.S. Department of Energy and National Energy Technology Laboratory leaders to discuss advances in converting coal to transportation fuels while capturing and storing carbon dioxide emissions.

The meeting was organized by the U.S. China Energy Center, a program of the National Research Center for Coal and Energy (NRCCE) at WVU. The Shenhua Group in China is developing the world's first commercial direct coal liquefaction (DCL) plant in northwestern China at a cost of about $1.5 billion. With support from the U.S. Department of Energy, WVU and Shenhua Group have been evaluating the economic and environmental impacts of the DCL technology.

WVU China Coal Tour

Elliot Kennel (left), research professor in the Department
of Chemical Engineering, describes for Wu Xiuzhang (right)
and his colleagues the process developed at WVU to convert coal
directly to liquids at low temperature and pressure. Coal
liquefaction typically requires high temperature and pressure
which translates into higher cost. Wu is the deputy chief engineer
of the Shenhua Group of China. Wu and his colleagues met with
experts at WVU under a U.S. Department of Energy agreement
between the organizations to share information and expertise.

While commercial coal to liquids processes exist, those processes are known as indirect coal liquefaction and require breaking down coal into molecules of carbon monoxide and hydrogen which are building blocks that are then processed into diesel fuel. Direct coal liquefaction processes attempt to bypass the breakdown of the coal into such small molecules to make liquid fuels directly.

Jerald Fletcher is director of the U.S. China Energy Center at WVU. He and research assistant professor Qingyun Sun of the Natural Resource Analysis Center at WVU will be assessing the economic and environmental impacts of the plant and analyzing the technology transition. Information gained by the researchers will be shared with those in the U.S. to help promote the transfer clean coal technologies.

"Converting coal to transportation fuels in an environmentally safe way requires knowledge from many different kinds of experts," Fletcher said. "Faculty from the departments of Chemical Engineering, Geology and Geography, Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, and Resource Management have been part of an agreement to discuss various aspects of coal to liquids with our guests."

WVU has been working with the U.S. Department of Energy and the China National Development and Reform Commission under an agreement known as the Protocol on Cooperation in the Field of Fossil Energy Technology Development and Utilization since 2002.

"Even with oil at about $40 per barrel we need to consider the long-term ability to provide a sufficient source of liquid fuels on a global scale, including alternative means such as coal to liquids," Lowell Miller, director, of the US DOE Office of Sequestration, Hydrogen, and Clean Coal Fuels said. "Under our agreement, we're helping the Chinese acquire environmental expertise on carbon dioxide capture and storage to address climate concerns. The Chinese are helping us gain economic and environmental data and operating experience in regard to building and running a novel coal to liquids plant not seen before. This information could be very helpful to the U.S. if we were ever to build a similar plant here," Miller said. Wu Xiuzhang, deputy chief engineer for the Shenhua Group is leading the delegation from China. He said, "cooperation between the U.S. and China, and especially with West Virginia University, is very valuable and has been very successful so far."

U.S. experts said that the Shenhua Direct Coal Liquefaction plant will likely be well suited to a large-scale international-class carbon capture and storage project. Fletcher and his colleagues, WVU professor Tim Carr and Julio Friedman of Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, noted that the Ordos basin in China, where the plant is under construction, has the geological resources necessary to support a sequestration project.

[ View Group Photo ]

Chinese participants included:

WVU participants included:

U.S. DOE participants included:

Advanced Resources International, Inc. participants included:

Posted January 15, 2009

"West Virginia Can Lead Transition to a Low-Carbon Future"

The State Journal, pg. 19, column by Carl Irwin

 

Morgantown, W.Va.—Carl Irwin, director of the Industries of the Future--West Virginia program of the NRCCE, calls for West Virginia to be a leader in low-carbon energy technologies in his guest column which appears in the January 9 edition of The State Journal.

To read the article online visit the following The State Journal web site link:
http://www.statejournal.com/story.cfm?func=viewstory&storyid=49729.

Posted January 13, 2009

WVU Minute Video Return to top

The West Virginia University National Research Center for Coal and Energy, or NRCCE, is conducting programs to secure our nation's energy and protect our environment. View the NRCCE WVU Minute Click to View

Industries of the Future-West Virginia, a partnership between WVU's National Research Center for Coal & Energy and the West Virginia Development Office, is helping state industries become more efficient. View IOF-WV WVU Minute Click to View

Part of WVU's National Research Center for Coal and Energy, the West Virginia Water Research Institute is developing treatment technologies to restore waterways damaged by early mining operations. View WVWRI WVU Minute Click to View

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