Course Description:

This 12-hours in-person course provides an introduction to microbiology of the bioreactor and its critical role within a clean water treatment facility. The course covers the essential role of bacteria in wastewater treatment and introduces key components of a microscopic examination report. Fundamental concepts in bioreactor microbiology and the theory behind the predominance of indicator microorganisms will be discussed. Participants receive hands-on training in the use of a phase contrast microscope and will gain an understanding of the function and importance of the bioreactor in the overall treatment process.

This course serves as in an introduction and a refresher learning opportunity (12 TCH's awarded for successful completion) for those seeking knowledge of the fundamental understanding of microbial dynamics in wastewater treatment.

Who should attend?

• All operations, maintenance, and laboratory staff of clean water treatment facilities.     

Included in training:

• Lunch at Bristol's on campus Epicurean Feast
• Upon successful completion, 12 Training Contact Hours (TCH) will be awarded toward credential renewal. This training is approved training in New England

About the Instructor:

Nora Lough is part of the laboratory team at the Narragansett Bay Commission as the Biologist II since 2005. She earned her B.S. in microbiology from UMASS Amherst in 1998 and has worked in a professional environmental laboratory for over twenty-five years. In her current position, Nora is responsible for the biological work to support two major clean water facilities in Rhode Island. She also performs whole effluent toxicity testing and specialty microscopic examinations for both facilities as well as incoordination with EPA NPDES permit requirements and RIDEM/RDOH efforts.

Nora is the principal and owner of Clean Water Training and Solutions, LLC and has taught many workshops which include wastewater microbiology, basic laboratory workshop and techniques for NPDES reporting, and data integrity and ethics. Nora holds a Grade 2 Operator’s license in Rhode Island, a Grade 2 NEWEA laboratory analyst certification, and a NELAC laboratory assessment certification, and many environmental awards and accolades.

She currently serves as the Treasurer of the Rhode Island Clean Water Association, Chair of the NEWEA Operations Challenge committee, Vice Coordinator of the WEF Laboratory Operations Challenge, and is active in the regional and national laboratory committees.