Power in Numbers: Meet Nick Meurer

Our next spotlight comes from Nick Meurer, our Technical Expert who brings his 13 years of experience in wastewater treatment operations to this work. Nick’s proficiency extends across process control, operational strategy and optimization, and lab analysis. Based on his experiences as an operator, Nick found that some of his greatest achievements and biggest successes were gained by working with neighboring utilities. "It was always really helpful to touch base with neighboring utilities because you were getting non-biased, practical knowledge sharing,” he says. “Most surrounding communities are facing a similar climate, generally up against similar regulations, so it made sense to share similar solutions.”  

In his work with utilities in Ohio, Wisconsin, Michigan, Indiana, Maryland, and Pennsylvania, he has identified similar problems Moonshot has been working to address—phosphorus removal, inflow and infiltration, and the general pressure of rising rates. He’s excited about participation in PRESERVE because new communities will bring in new ideas and solutions. “Instead of a standard report you might receive from an engineering firm, you are getting peer-to-peer knowledge," he says, "which is a lot more cost effective and more sustainable for the long term."

As resources continue to shrink at every level, Nick has the following advice for PRESERVE members to take advantage of this network of solutions. “Think outside the box about process optimization,” he says. “That might mean showcasing what you are doing with PRESERVE and getting some hard-earned recognition.” Nick also suggests utilities really focus on things they don’t think are attainable. “Think about the things you don’t think are possible,” he says. “What are some of your bigger picture ideas/goals, and how can those come to life? You are having these conversations with other utility leaders. There’s power in numbers- as these relationships build, we can find more sensible, long term, sustainable solutions to challenges utilities face.” 

Nick’s long-term priority for PRESERVE remains on practical, tangible takeaways. "I hope to see utilities that are actually able to function better because of PRESERVE. I hope they are able to find value, cost-effective solutions, and meet some of their challenges. I'd just like to see that they’ve been better off because of what they’ve been able to gain.”