The Division of Water Quality recently set up an information exchange forum for wastewater treatment plant operators on its web site. The forum is designed to share operational help tips and methods among operators. With adequate participation, the division hopes to build the site into a valuable reference for operators. It is a unique way for improving the effectiveness and efficiency of treatment plant operations, while also giving water quality a boost. Access the new forum at: www.state.nj.us/dep/dwq/operators.htm.

If you have a tip or operation method you would like to share with your colleagues, please contact Chris Hoffman, Bureau of Engineering South at (609) 984-6840 or by e-mail at choffma2@dep.state.nj.us.

Annual reports are required to be submitted to local agencies indicating the status of dischargers to local agency sewer plants and of the local agency's pretreatment program. The division recently posted draft guidance documents for both Delegated and Non-Delegated Local Agencies. Since these documents are preliminary, comments from interested parties are welcome. The documents may be accessed at: www.state.nj.us/dep/dwq/sius.htm.

EPA has launched a new web site to provide easy access to information on its national permitting program, the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES). The site uses state-of- the-art database technology to manage documents, regulations, and contact information. Users are able to select a variety of ways to enter and view the website, from a general interests format to a detailed topics list for those more familiar with the NPDES program. The site also allows users to create and sort specialized lists of publications, guidance materials, and regulations. It can be accessed at www.epa.gov/npdes. If you have any questions or comments, please contact Ross Brennan at brennan.ross@epa.gov. (Reprinted from WaterNews, 7/701, EPA Office of Water)