Meet the BSK Staff: Darlene West, OD Coordinator

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For this week’s Meet the Staff segment, we’re delighted to introduce Darlene, a dedicated and long-serving member of the BSK Associates team. With roots in Colorado Springs and a diverse background that spans the globe thanks to her father’s Air Force career, Darlene has called Battle Ground, WA, her home for the past 28 years. She brings a wealth of experience and a passion for employee engagement to her role as OD Coordinator, where she excels in fostering a supportive and connected workplace. Join us as we learn more about Darlene’s journey, her contributions to BSK, and some fun personal anecdotes that highlight her vibrant personality.

Interviewer: Hi Darlene! Can you tell me a little about where you are from. Where is your hometown and where did you go to school?

Darlene: I was born in Colorado Springs at the Air Force Academy. My father was in the Air Force, and I have lived all over the world. For the last 28 years I have called Battle Ground, WA my hometown. I graduated in 1981 from Burkburnett High School in Wichita Falls, TX and then went on to get my Bachelor of Science degree from Baylor University.

Interviewer: How long have you worked for BSK and what do you do for the organization?

Darlene: I have worked for BSK for almost 10 years in January of 2025. I started out in 2015 as a log in Technician in VAL, got promoted to Log in Tech II, and then in 2019 I started working half time between the analytical division and HR as the Wellness Coordinator. In 2021 I took on the full-time role of OD Coordinator and now work remotely from home. As the OD Coordinator I am responsible for everything from Wellness to OD administrative work, committees and councils, employee engagement and employee coaching and training.

Interviewer: What do you enjoy most about your job?

Darlene: I enjoy engaging with our employees on many different issues and levels. We have great employees that work at BSK and I love making sure our employees feel a part of the company. I also enjoy seeing the growth in individuals within the company.

Interviewer: Can you tell us about your favorite on the job story?

Darlene: I have many favorite on the job stories, but I guess my favorite was when I was still in the lab and a customer sent me flowers and candy for helping her with a time sensitive issue. It made me feel good to know there are still people out there who value good customer service and professionalism and validated my work ethic which I have strived my whole career to achieve.

Interviewer: Thank you for answering all these questions today. Can we leave off by you relaying some fun facts about yourself?

Darlene: I am a mother and grandmother and enjoy spending time with my grandchildren who only live a mile from me. My husband and I also enjoy taking our camper out on getaways. We recently drove it down to Texas for the Solar Eclipse in April and were in the path of totality which was an amazing experience.

 

Looking to learn more about BSK Associates Geoprofessional and Analytical Services, check our website and connect with us to see how we can help you.  www.bskassociates.com/ 

UCMR5 Testing

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UCMR5 Testing

 

What is UCMR5?

The Fifth Unregulated Contaminant Monitoring Rule (UCMR5) represents a significant step by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in safeguarding our drinking water. This initiative involves monitoring a set of contaminants that, while not currently regulated, could pose potential health risks. The data collected through UCMR5 helps to maintain the integrity of our water supply and ensures that we’re proactive in addressing any emerging threats to public health.

Why UCMR5 Matters

UCMR5 is more than just a regulatory measure; it’s a crucial tool in the ongoing battle to protect our most vital resource—water. By identifying and understanding the presence of emerging contaminants, we can take informed steps to mitigate their impact and preserve the health of our communities.

Key Insights into UCMR5

Publication Date: The EPA released UCMR5 on December 27, 2021.

Contaminants: The rule mandates sampling for 30 chemical contaminants, with a focus on PFAS and lithium, from 2023 to 2025.

Health Impact: The collected data will inform future regulations to protect public health.

Environmental Justice: The rule assesses the impact of contaminants on vulnerable communities.

Current Findings: As of January 11, 2024, the EPA has published data on 29 PFAS and lithium, representing about 24% of the expected results by 2026.

Research and Development: Efforts are ongoing to refine measurement techniques for these contaminants. For a deeper dive into UCMR5, refer to the EPA’s comprehensive UCMR 5 Program Overview Fact Sheet and the Technical Fact Sheet: Lithium in Drinking Water for insights into the results and associated health risks.

Addition of Lithium

Lithium, a naturally occurring metal in the Earth’s crust, is often found at higher concentrations in groundwater sources in arid regions of the Western U.S. This versatile element is used in various commercial applications, including pharmaceuticals, industrial chemical catalysts, and as a sanitizing agent. Additionally, lithium is increasingly used in batteries. While it may be present in foods like cereal grains, leafy vegetables, and root crops, the significance of these dietary sources is not yet clear, and there is no recommended dietary allowance for lithium in the U.S.

In the context of the EPA’s Fifth Contaminant Candidate List (CCL 5), which identifies contaminants that may require future regulation under the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA), lithium was selected for inclusion in the Unregulated Contaminant Monitoring Rule 5 (UCMR 5). This decision was based on its expected or known occurrence in drinking water and the need for more health effects information. The monitoring data from UCMR 5 will help determine if lithium in drinking water poses health risks and inform future regulatory decisions.

It’s important to note that the EPA currently does not have a health advisory specifically for lithium in drinking water. However, a health reference level (HRL) has been derived for screening purposes based on available toxicity data. This level is not a final determination of the safe level of lithium in drinking water but is used to guide further research and assessment.

For more information on lithium in drinking water, including the EPA’s provisional peer-reviewed toxicity value (PPRTV) assessment and treatment information, refer to the Technical Fact Sheet: Lithium in Drinking Water and the UCMR 5 Data Summary provided by the EPA. The science on lithium’s health effects and safe levels in drinking water is still evolving, highlighting the importance of continued monitoring and research in this area.

UCMR5 Monitoring Requirements

UCMR 5 mandates monitoring by specific public water systems (PWSs) for 29 per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and lithium in drinking water between 2023 and 2025.

Here’s how it applies to different community water systems:

  • More than 10,000 people: Must monitor during a single 12-month timeframe within the three years of monitoring.
  • Between 3,300 and 10,000 people: Subject to availability of appropriations and sufficient laboratory capacity.
  • Fewer than 3,300 people: A representative sample is required for monitoring.

Choosing BSK Associates for UCMR5 Testing

BSK Associates stands at the forefront of UCMR5 testing. Our state-of-the-art services are tailored to deliver precise and dependable results, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards and the safety of your water supply.

BSK Associates was one of the first labs to become certified for Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances, (PFAS). PFAS testing in the state of California. As a leader in PFAS testing our technical experts are here to assist you with your PFAS projects. We follow strict Quality Assurance / Quality Control guidelines. We are accredited by the National Environmental Laboratory Accreditation Program, (NELAP) and the California Environmental Laboratory Accreditation Program, (CA ELAP) for all PFAS compounds in drinking water by EPA’s 533 and 537.1 methodologies.

Our laboratory has performed PFAS analyses for more than 10 years now. During that time, our laboratory has analyzed thousands of EPA method 537 samples while participating in EPA’s UCMR3 monitoring program as well as drinking water by EPA method 537.1.

BSK’s Commitment to Customer Service

At BSK Associates, we’re not just about testing; we’re about people. Our dedicated team is here to support you through every step of the UCMR5 testing process, providing expert guidance and personalized care. Providing you with accurate and defensible results is our top priority, and we’re committed to excellence in service.

Stay Updated

UCMR 5 Data Finder:  UCMR 5 Data Finder is an invaluable resource that allows users to:

  • Search: Access and summarize analytical results from UCMR 5.
  • Filter: Refine results using various criteria, such as Public Water System (PWS), state, contaminant, source water type, and detection levels.
  • Health Risk Identification: Highlight results that exceed health-based reference concentrations.

The EPA will regularly update the UCMR 5 Data Finder quarterly until 2026. The next data release, addressing results received as of April 2024, is anticipated by early May 2024. Keep an eye on this tool for the latest information on unregulated contaminants in your area.

The data represented in the UCMR 5 Data Finder is up to date as of January 11, 2024, and will continue to be updated until the completion of data reporting in 2026.

Resources:

EPA News Release: 

UCMR5 Rules and Regulations:

The Fifth Unregulated Contaminant Monitoring Rule (UCMR 5) Data Summary: January 2024 (epa.gov)

 

Michael Brechmann’s 100th Blood Donation!

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Celebrating a Hero Among Us: Michael Brechmann’s 100th Blood Donation!

Join us in celebrating a remarkable milestone! Michael Brechman, a valued member of our BSK team, recently completed his 100th blood donation at the Central Valley Blood Center.

Michael’s dedication to saving lives is truly inspiring. His milestone reminds us of the critical need for blood donations, especially during these challenging times. Every donation makes a difference and has the power to save lives.

How You Can Help

  • Donate Blood: Visit American Red Cross to find upcoming blood drives.
  • Spread the Word: Share Michael’s story and encourage your friends and family to donate.
  • Make an Impact: Your donation can make a real difference in someone’s life.

Let’s follow Michael’s lead and make a difference together. Thank you, Michael, for your selfless dedication to helping others. You are a true hero!

 

 

BSK strongly believes in giving back to the communities in which we work. We make sure our community involvement goals have a positive impact on the communities which we serve; because, in the end it’s all about community.

Looking to learn more about BSK Associates Geoprofessional and Analytical Services, check our website and connect with us to see how we can help you.  www.bskassociates.com/ 

Meet the BSK Staff: Omar Khan, Project Professional II

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Get ready to meet Omar, a multi-talented member of the BSK Associates team with a fascinating background! Omar’s journey is as diverse as it is impressive. Join us as we uncover Omar’s story, from his early days in Lodi, California, to his adventures in geology and project management. Discover Omar’s favorite on-the-job moments and learn about his passions outside of work. Join us in celebrating Omar’s unique perspective and invaluable contributions to our team!

Interviewer: Hi Omar! Can you tell me a little about where you are from. Where is your hometown and where did you go to school?

Omar: I was born in a somewhat small village – Barazai – in the northern part of Punjab Province, Pakistan, prior to moving to Lodi, California in 1985 or 1986 (cannot recall exact year as I was less than 10). My mom was born in Lodi before she went overseas to spend some time in Pakistan, where her father was originally from, while her mom was originally from New York with roots going back to Italy. My extended family has roots in Barazai and Lodi (working in agriculture back in the day).

Very few relatives are left over there.  I have been in Lodi since moving to California. With little English that I knew, I was thrown into the lion’s den in elementary school, which was 3rd grade. Probably because I was in that age range. Just imagine someone my age in 1st or 2nd grade 😝. I did have the privilege of leaving class from time to time to attend ESL program, which was fun. After graduating Tokay High School, attended University of the Pacific in Stockton, graduating in 2004 with two BS degrees (one was geology). Mind you, I did not think too much about college after high school nor did I know which direction to go once I got accepted.

Interviewer: How long have you worked for BSK and what do you do for the organization?

Omar: I have been with BSK since the end of September 2018. I started in this industry back in 2005 (feel like an old timer) doing various task. Currently, I consider myself a project manager/proposal gunslinger (as recently titled and probably trademarked)/geologist/ARSO/etc.

Interviewer: What do you enjoy most about your job?

Omar: Definitely do not enjoy the stress that usually comes with this job. Some clients can be very difficult to deal with/demanding, but the feeling of completing a project is a great feeling/sigh of relief. The most joy comes from the everyday interaction with my colleagues (not always about work work work) and perhaps traveling between Tracy, Livermore, and Sacramento offices. It’s a livelier crowd than my previous work environment.

Interviewer: Can you tell us your favorite on the job story?

Omar: A favorite story would be difficult to select since I started working in 2005. I know I can recall plenty of negative stories and the times I have encountered underground utilities. Never fun encountering any utilities, especially pressurized sewer lines. I suppose as a geologist, it was very exciting to finally get to see an actual, active fault zone in an excavation some years ago. I had seen various landslide planes, but never a fault zone. I have been involved in various fault trenches near or along the Hayward Fault (always a grueling task), but never found a fault (great for the Client). I was working on a project just west of Fairfield among the hills. A landslide had occurred, encroaching on a major gas line that ran parallel with Interstate 680 along the hills. Also parallel along this ridge is the active Green Valley Fault Zone. Besides investigating the landslide via continuous borings and trenching for relocating the gas line within the landslide zone, the Client wanted to investigate the overall impact the fault would have on the line. Who would install a major pipeline parallel with and crossing a major fault? After excavating a few trenches at various locations, we got lucky with one that indicated a clear and present danger. It left me amazed and speechless. Only a fellow geologist would understand.

There was another time in San Pablo where we were investigating why the floor was buckling inside a supermarket along San Pablo Dam Road. We ended up excavating a trench behind the store along the toe of the slope. The area originally was hilly and underwent mass grading to create the shopping center and the residential unit atop the slope. The original consultant had mapped a massive slide in the area and during grading had assumed they had repaired the slide, including removing the slide plane. Unfortunately, that was not the case. We found the old slide plane just beneath their drain blanket. They had missed it by a foot or so. As we were pulling out the hydraulic shores, majority of the trench immediately collapsed creating this BOOM sound effect. Left one in shock with increase heartbeat. We backfilled the trench and informed the Client that here are our findings. Good luck going after the previous consultant/contractor. Not much we can do. The liability is too great for such a massive landslide.

Interviewer: Thank you so much for answering all these questions today. Can we leave off by you relaying some fun facts about yourself?

Omar: I tend to not talk too much about myself. People say I’m too humble at times. Perhaps because I’m usually quiet and calm. I enjoy hanging out with friends, dealing with my crazy nieces and nephews (not easy being the only favorite uncle), I’m probably considered a nerd since I love Star Trek (TNG and DS9 over the rest for my fellow Trekkie), go on hikes when possible, keeping up with my landscaping (plenty of roses) and gardening.