TOPEKA — The Kansas Department of Health and Environment Bureau of Water has certified 39 water treatment operators and 27 wastewater treatment operators from August to December. These operators represent community and public water supply facilities across the state.

Kansas has more than 1,000 community and public water supply facilities that require a certified operator. Individuals who operate water treatment plants must meet minimum training standards to assure water is properly treated so it is safe to drink. Wastewater treatment plant operators must also be trained so they can operate wastewater treatment systems and prevent the release of excessive pollutants.

“Trained water and wastewater treatment operators play a significant role in protecting public health and preserving the environment,” said KDHE Secretary Robert Moser. “These Kansans have displayed commendable efforts to protect our waters.”

The following individuals were certified from northwest and north-central Kansas.

Water operators
Russ Beach, Phillipsburg; Jeff Cart, Salina; Christopher Frack, Norton; Keri Griswell, Salina; Glenn Quested, Salina; and Jason Rothenberger, Osborne.

Wastewater operators
Darin Martin, Claflin, and Richard Simmons, Salina.