To provide water & wastewater utilities the support and resources to address specific system challenges in operations and management.

Systems manage a wide variety of challenges. Regulations, rate studies, customer service, training and so much more. Through system visits and input from CRWA membership, it is clear that small systems struggle to meet all of the challenges with very limited staffing and funding options. SUSP has been created to fill that gap.

SUSP is an internal CRWA program that is able to provide both short and long term solutions to utilities. SUSP has the flexibility and staffing to provide planned services by experienced operators and managers at very competitive prices. Staff have years of experience in the field, and hold State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) certifications in treatment and distribution, and wastewater plant operations.

Our Services

The following services are available through SUSP

general SUSP services

Wastewater System Contract Operations

We offer complete wastewater system operation and maintenance for municipal, industrial and commercial systems located in California. We have extensive experience in both conventional and package wastewater system operations and maintenance. Let our experienced staff of certified wastewater operators help you minimize operating costs and increase the efficiency and reliability of your wastewater system. The following is a list of services we provide:

  • Wastewater utility management and advisory services
  • All required compliance reporting
  • Treatment and collections system maintenance
  • NPDES reporting

For more information, please contact:
Fernando Saenz
SUSP Field Training and Operations Manager
c: 559.623.2457
e: fsaenz@calruralwater.org

Water System Contract Operations

We have a wide range of staff with SWRCB certifications in treatment and distribution to help you meet the challenges of operating your public water supply. We currently provide contract operations to a variety of systems from large municipalities to small private utilities. Let our extensive experience and knowledge help you minimize operating costs and increase efficiency and reliability of your water system. The following is a list of some of the services we provide:

  • Water utility management and advisory services
  • Water quality sample collections
  • Valve and Hydrant Maintenance
  • Surface Water Treatment Rule Reporting
  • Meter Reading and maintenance
  • System Flushing
  • Compliance reporting

For more information, please contact:
Fernando Saenz
SUSP Field Training and Operations Manager
c: 559.623.2457
e: fsaenz@calruralwater.org

Utility Rate Studies

SUSP will perform an analysis of and provide recommendations on the System’s rates. The overall goal of a rate study is to determine appropriate rates and rate structure that will produce the desired revenue to fund a system’s budget; CIP reserves or depreciation reserves; and any other designated reserves or accounts that the staff, management and board agree upon. SUSP will determine the rates and structure using information provided by the system liaison, and in accordance with the system’s current policies on utility rates and fees. SUSP can attend Board Meetings as well as assist, when and if needed, with any Prop 218 meetings.

For more information, please contact:
Nicole Cook
Engineering Program Manager
c: 916.283.8529
e: ncook@calruralwater.org

Median Household Income (MHI) Surveys

MHI Surveys may be conducted for a drinking water/wastewater system when it is believed that the current income data provided for the system’s service area by ACS census sources are inaccurate, and that revised income data may lead to eligibility for certain funding. A system will need to get approval from the funding agency to have an income survey conducted. SUSP will conduct a thorough survey using guidelines provided by the requesting funding agency, and will prepare a comprehensive report of its findings for both the system and funding agency.

For more information, please contact:
Nicole Cook
Engineering Program Manager
c: 916.283.8529
e: ncook@calruralwater.org

For a complete list of our engineering services, or to request a proposal from our engineering team, visit SUSP Engineering’s website at: https://www.suspeng.org

Understanding Backflow

What is Backflow?

Backflow is the unwanted reverse flow of non-potable water or other substances into the public water system. This issue typically occurs during sudden drops below 5 psi, such as when fire hydrants are being used or during water main breaks. Protecting against backflow is essential for maintaining water quality and public health.

Preventing Backflow

To safeguard potable water supplies, systems should have backflow prevention devices. These devices ensure that water flows in only one direction to prevent contaminants from entering potable water sources.

Easy Management with SUSP

Comprehensive Backflow Program Management

SUSP offers tailored management solutions for your backflow program, including:

  • Certified Testers: Our team provides certified testers who comply with all reporting requirements for your cross-connection control program.
  • Flexible Pricing Options: Choose between a price-per-device model (ideal for homeowners or businesses with just a few devices) or a contractual format that best fits your system's needs.
  • Custom Tracking Program: We have developed a unique program to track and notify your customers about annual testing requirements.
  • Timely Follow-Ups: SUSP will provide follow-up reports as required, ensuring your backflow prevention efforts are seamless and efficient.

Our Backflow Testing Services

SUSP also provides professional backflow testing services to ensure your systems are compliant and your water supply remains safe. Our certified technicians are dedicated to delivering reliable testing and effective solutions for all your backflow needs.

Contact Us

For more information or to schedule a service, please reach out to us:

Phone: 916-248-1308

Email: susp-backflow@calruralwater.org

We look forward to helping you protect your water systems with our expert backflow prevention and testing solutions.

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leak detection

Leak Detection Services

Water System Leak Detection Services

Our skilled and experienced staff utilizes state of the art equipment to perform comprehensive surveys in locating unaccounted for water loss. We can also train your staff on the proper usage of the equipment. Our state of the art equipment includes:

  • Leak surveyors and correlators
  • Pipe locators
  • Hydrophones
  • Computerized leak sound loggers

For more information, please contact:
Michael Sims
Lead Leak Detection Training Specialist
c: 858.444.6378
e: msims@calruralwater.org

Service Fees

SUSP fees are determined by the type of service needed; services like Contract Operations, Rate Studies or MHI’s need to be priced on an individual basis due to certain factors related to each of those services.

Contact Us

For more information or if you are interested in getting a quote. SUSP will provide price quotes to you as well as onsite evaluations as the need is determined.

















 

Our Address

SUSP, Inc.
1234 North Market Blvd.
Sacramento, CA 95834
info@suspinc.org

By Phone

Toll-free Telephone Number: 877.897.8806

SUSP Administrator: 916.980.7172

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