366 Produced Water: Expert Perspectives and Practical Tips

Scaling UP! H2O

Get ready to dive headfirst into the dynamic world of Produced Water as we kick off our inaugural episode dedicated to this captivating topic on the Scaling UP! H2O podcast. Join us on this thrilling expedition as we journey alongside our esteemed guest, Ivan Morales—a seasoned expert in water treatment and a beacon of innovation. With a passion for practical solutions and a knack for making complex concepts relatable, Ivan is here to guide us through the ins and outs of Produced Water management, making it accessible to all.

In this groundbreaking episode, Ivan Morales, known for his contributions to Nalco Water, the International Water Conference (IWC), and the Produced Water Society, takes center stage to share his knowledge about Produced Water with a global audience of water professionals. Drawing from years of hands-on experience and a natural intuition for problem-solving, Ivan breaks down the barriers to understanding, offering practical insights and real-world examples. From navigating EPA regulations to tackling challenges in coal mining and fracking, we're in for an engaging and enlightening ride through the fascinating landscape of water treatment.

What You'll Discover:

Navigating EPA Regulations and Produced Water:

Dive into the intricate realm of EPA guidelines governing the measurement and treatment of Produced Water. By understanding these regulations, we empower ourselves to ensure compliance and uphold environmental stewardship.

Confronting Challenges in Coal Mines:

Explore the unique hurdles faced by water professionals in coal mines, where the recycling and treatment of water are pivotal for maintaining safety standards and safeguarding downstream communities. Ivan underscores the imperative of returning water to the environment in an improved state.

Embracing Innovation and Technological Advancements:

Embark on a journey of discovery as we uncover cutting-edge technologies and collaborative initiatives revolutionizing Produced Water treatment. Ivan sheds light on the promising prospects of element extraction, such as lithium, and the ongoing innovations propelling our industry toward greater efficiency and sustainability.

Episode Highlights:

Empowerment through EPA Compliance:

Gain actionable insights into navigating EPA regulations, fostering compliance, and contributing to environmental preservation through responsible water management practices.

Community-Centric Water Stewardship:

Learn how our efforts in coal mines directly impact downstream communities, and discover strategies for enhancing water quality to create a ripple effect of positive change.

Innovative Solutions Driving Sustainability:

Embark on a journey of innovation as we explore the transformative potential of emerging technologies and collaborative endeavors, propelling us toward a future of sustainable water management practices.

Ivan delves into crucial topics such as managing PFAS contaminants, harnessing the potential of recycled water for sustainable practices, and the imperative of accurate measurement in water discharge. His insights into the challenges of treating water from fracking operations and the avenues for technological innovation are both enlightening and empowering.

Join us as we embark on this enlightening exploration of Produced Water management, where knowledge is our compass, innovation is our vehicle, and positive change is our destination.

Tune in to the latest episode of Scaling UP! H2O now, and let's journey together toward a future of sustainable water stewardship!

Timestamps

01:00 - Trace Blackmore thanks you for participating in the Global 6K For Water this year. Thank you for helping to solve the global water crisis.

6:30 - Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals

8:30 - Interview with Ivan Morales about Produced Water

48:00 - Drop by Drop With James McDonald

49:30 - Please leave a review of this podcast on your favorite podcast player

Quotes

"Produced Water can range anywhere from 1,000 to 380,000 ppm TDS, presenting a vast range of challenges and opportunities to navigate." - Ivan Morales

"Whenever we attempt to return water to the ground, the EPA provides the essential framework for doing so responsibly." - Ivan Morales

"In the coal mining industry, it's crucial to ensure that all the water we extract is returned in better condition because downstream communities rely on it." - Ivan Morales

"Go to the source to understand what is out there. Many people are working together to create a better world, and there is a lot of good news in the Produced Water industry!" - Ivan Morales

Connect with Ivan Morales

Website: www.ecolab.com/nalco-water/

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/ivan-morales-mba-06793b5/

linkedin.com/company/nalco/

linkedin.com/company/produced-water-society-inc/

linkedin.com/showcase/intlwaterconf/

Affiliations:

International Water Conference (IWC), Executive Board Member

Produced Water Society, Board of Directors

Read or Download Ivan Morales’ Press Release HERE

Links Mentioned

Team World Vision’s Global 6K For Water

International Water Conference (IWC)

Groundwater Protection Council - Produced Water Report

New Mexico Produced Water Research Consortium

Texas Produced Water Consortium

The Rising Tide Mastermind

Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses

Submit a Show Idea

Books Mentioned

Produced Water Volume 1 by John Walsh

Produced Water Volume 2 by John Walsh

Hidden Potential by Adam Grant

Atomic Habits by James Clear

It's Your Ship: Management Techniques from the Best Damn Ship in the Navy by Captain Abrashoff

Drop By Drop with James

In today’s segment, I have a challenge for you. I challenge you to test the free chlorine in a cooling tower system IMMEDIATELY after sampling, let the sample sit OPEN for an HOUR, and then test again. Was there a difference between your two readings? If so, how do you explain this? If not, how do you explain it? Why is the timing of both the sampling and the testing important when analyzing for free chlorine? Would this apply to testing for TOTAL chlorine, too? How about when testing for bromine, chlorine dioxide, etc.? Why does any of this matter?

2024 Events for Water Professionals

Check out our Scaling UP! H2O Events Calendar where we’ve listed every event Water Treaters should be aware of by clicking HERE.