Meet The Staff: Chris Helm, Field Tech Supervisor

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Meet The Staff: Chris Helm, Field Tech Supervisor: With 25 years of dedication to BSK Associates, Chris has become a key player at the Fresno office, working as an engineering soils/field technician, field supervisor, and arso radiation safety assistant. What he enjoys most about his job is the variety it offers—no two days are the same. Explore Chris’s journey with BSK, his favorite on-the-job stories, and some fun facts about him below.
Interviewer: Hi Chris! Can you tell me a little about where you are from. Where is your hometown and where did you go to school?
Chris: So, I was born and raised in Selma California and have lived there all of my life. I went to Selma High School where I met my wife Sylvia my junior year when we began dating and have been dating since. We raised our daughter Jessica together who is a graduate of Fresno State University and are proud that she is now a special ed teacher in the Fowler School District.
Interviewer: How long have you worked for BSK and what do you do for the organization?
Chris: Proud to say I have worked for BSK for 25 years. I first applied for employment at the Fresno office in 1998, however, I was asked if I would like to work for the Visalia office who needed a soils technician at the time, and I accepted. I worked for the Visalia office for approximately 5 years until it closed when I transferred to the Fresno office permanently. I am currently an engineering soils/ field technician/ field supervisor and Fresno branch Arso radiation safety assistant.
Interviewer: What do you enjoy most about your job?
Chris: The thing I like most about my job is I am not stuck in the same location.  I get to experience several interesting jobs all year round and meet new people in the field. I also enjoy all of the wonderful people I work with at our Fresno office.
Interviewer: Can you tell us your favorite on the job story?
Chris: My favorite or proudest on the job moments was when BSK was hired by the State of California along with five other engineering labs to compete against one another regarding soil types and perceived maximum densities of on-site soils at the Delano State Prison which had just began construction. Since I was a lab and field technician, I was chosen to represent BSK against the other labs. We all had to “best guess” maximum densities based on appearance, feel, and soil types. Proud to say BSK won the contract, or I would like to believe that is the reason BSK won the contract.
Interviewer: Thank you so much for answering all these questions today. Can we leave off by you relaying some fun facts about yourself?
Chris: Fun fact: My wife Sylvia and I have owned a houseboat that is docked at Pine Flat Lake since 2017. We enjoy having friends and family during the summer months for weekend stays where we like to barbecue, relax, laugh and enjoy several lake activities.
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Meet the Staff: Brea Diogo, Southern Regional Dispatch & Project Coordinator

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Meet Brea Diogo, Southern Regional Dispatch and Project Coordinator at BSK Associates. Brea has been an essential part of BSK since April 2019. Brea is a key player in ensuring smooth communication between clients and field staff. Her passion for her work is evident in her commitment to providing excellent customer service and her enjoyment of the dynamic, puzzle-like nature of dispatch. Brea’s warm personality and strong family values make her a cherished member of the BSK team and a respected figure in the Bakersfield community.

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

Brea: Hi everyone! My name is Brea Diogo, and I was born and raised in Bakersfield, Ca. First and foremost, I am a mother of two beautiful children. My first born is my daughter Zoee and my second is my son Derrek Jr whom we call Dj. I am married to Derrek Diogo, and we have been together since high school, for 12 years now. I went to North high school, and it was really the best years of my life. I grew up with a total of 7 siblings under a unique dynamic. From step siblings to cousins, we adopted as children and half / full siblings, you could imagine I grew up with a very large chaos induced household, but I loved it! The best way to describe me is fully family oriented between my family and the family I now have created. Holidays, traditions, and the way we raise our children means so much to me.

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

Brea: I started to work for BSK in April 2019. I just hit my 5-year mark. I was only going to be part time, and I love it so much it became a full-time job. I am the Southern regional dispatch and project coordinator. My job requires a lot of attention to detail and socializing which I love. I am on the phone all day talking with clients and our field staff. I wear a lot of hats and am proud of how far I have come with the company. I appreciate how BSK has seen my value.

Interviewer: What do you enjoy most about your job?

Brea: Getting to speak with clients firsthand and being able to provide them with great customer service starts with dispatch then leads into reports and project coordination. I get to see the projects through start to finish along with our clients. We have a lot of repeat clients so some I have known on a personal level and that’s truly the best part about my job. I have taken clients out for lunch, and they have become friends that I speak with on a daily basis. I really enjoy the art of the puzzle that dispatch is. Most will look at the chaos and see exactly that, but give me an hour, and I can have the schedule pieced together to what makes sense. That and the people I work with make it special.

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

Brea: I don’t have any story specifically but there are so many fun memories from OC events and meeting clients in person. Most clients have taken me by surprise, and I really enjoy getting to put a face to the name of people I have spoken with for years. Owners club by far has my greatest memories. Karaoke is a Bakersfield favorite, and I love my work family!

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

Brea: I am turning 30 in November! I am a big advocate for human trafficking prevention. I do annual rallies to raise money for local and national organizations. I have raised thousands of dollars in the last 4 years. I feel like I was born in the wrong generation. I love being a mother and raising my children, if I could go back in time, I would love to be a stay-at-home mother and garden / have a homestead and homeschool. Times are obviously MUCH different. I am very outgoing and a goof ball once you get to know me. A fun fact is I have never worked in the construction industry and the fact that I am where I am now blows my mind. I definitely think this is the best career path for me 😊.

Meet the Staff:

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Meet the BSK Staff: Nancy Porter, Office Manager

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Meet Nancy Porter, dedicated Office Manager of the BSK Associates’ Bakersfield office. Born and raised in Kern County, Nancy has always called this area home, with her roots in Taft, Bakersfield, and Porterville. A proud graduate of Taft Union High School and Bakersfield College, Nancy has been an integral part of BSK for over five and a half years. Known for her multifaceted role, she not only manages the office but also ensures timely collections, making her an indispensable member of the team. Nancy’s passion for her job shines through her love for her co-workers and her enthusiasm for community events. Her vibrant personality and deep local connections make her a true asset to both BSK Associates and the Bakersfield community.

Meet the Staff. Nancy Porter, Bakersfield Office Manager

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

Nancy: I am born and raised here in Kern County.  I have always lived this area (Taft, Bakersfield, and Porterville).  I graduated from Taft Union High School (Go Wildcats) and Bakersfield College.

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

Nancy: I have been with BSK now for a little over 5 1/2 years.  I am the office manager for the Bakersfield office.  I also do collections (try and get us paid). I wear many hats and love my career.

Interviewer: What do you enjoy most about your job?

Nancy: I love my co-workers and they make coming to work fun.  We have a great staff and I truly enjoying coming to work.   I would say my favorite things are collecting past due money and attending events representing BSK.

 

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

Nancy: This is hard to pinpoint one thing, but I do love to attend events of all kinds and meeting new people in the community.  Showing the youth in this area how cool Engineering field can be.  Bakersfield is larger city but still runs very small town like.  With being here my whole life, I know lots of people so when attending events, it’s nice to share with them what BSK does and see if we can assist them in future business needs.

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

Nancy: I have two amazing kiddos (33 and 25).  I like to spend time with them.  I love to travel and see new places I have never been to.  I am headed to Nashville this week and can’t wait to listen to some great live music, as that is one of my favorite things.  I also like to do open mics nights at the Comedy Clubs when I am traveling.  No one knows me and I can joke about anyone. Lol I have done it locally a few times but prefer places no one knows me, and I don’t have to worry about who is in the audience because they might be included in my jokes.  Lol

 

Meet the Staff:

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Meet the BSK Staff: Jeanette Campise, Divisional Engineering Acounting Manager

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Meet the BSK Staff: Jeanette has been a dedicated member of the BSK team for 17 years. Starting as a financial accountant in 2007, Jeanette has transitioned through various roles, including compliance and payroll, and now serves as the Divisional Engineering Accounting Manager. Her passion for problem-solving and process improvement makes her an invaluable asset to the BSK team.

Meet the BSK StaffInterviewer: Hi Jeanette! Can you tell me a little about where you are from. Where is your hometown and where did you go to school?

Jeanette: I was born in Ceres, California, moved to Idaho Falls in the 1st grade and back to Fresno in the 4th grade. I went to Temperance-Kutner, Clark and Clovis High School. Graduated Fresno City College with a AS in Accounting and went on to get my BS in Accounting from the Craig School of Business at Fresno State.

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

Jeanette:  I have been at BSK for 17 years. Started as the financial accountant in 2007, basically making sure the data ties out for the CFO to report on our profitability as a company. Then I switched to compliance 10 years ago and handled all the prevailing wage compliance, payroll and reporting. Now, I am back in financial accounting as the Divisional Engineering Acounting Manager working on tying out the data for the engineering side of the company along with managing compliance and payroll. We have great staff here that helps make my job easier.

Interviewer: What do you enjoy most about your job?

Jeanette: I enjoy problem solving and coming up with ways to streamline daily processes. Being involved with new software implementations and seeing how they can improve the quality and lessen the quantity of work. Finding ways to get accurate information faster.

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

Jeanette: I think my favorite work story was when I was hired at BSK. This was when the Deltek software system was being implemented and several of the staff went to Nashville Tennessee for the Deltek Conference.  A couple of us took an extra day to hang in Memphis and get fake tattoos on Beale Street. We stayed at the Heart Break Hotel and toured Elvis’s house, then rented a car to drive to Nashville.  Deltek through a big party in Downtown Nashville and we rocked out to a concert with the LoCash Cowboys. Got to go to the Grand Ole Opry, see the Duke’s of Hazzard Museum and eat catfish for the first time. Oh, and we worked too, while we were there. I think Cheri Enos still has black mail material from that trip.

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

Jeanette: I played drums in an Alternative Rock Band in my early 20’s, we played around Fresno and once in a warehouse on the wharf in San Francisco. I’ve been married for over 25 years, have three beautiful daughters. Live in Clovis and enjoy collecting old hardback books, watching mysteries and cooking.

Meet the Staff:

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Meet the BSK Staff: David Tsubota Regional Manager

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Meet the BSK Staff: David Tsubota, a dedicated member of the BSK team for 33 years. Born and raised in Walnut Creek, California, David began his academic journey at Ygnacio Valley High School and Diablo Valley College, ultimately earning his chemistry degree from Fresno State University in 1991. Throughout his tenure at BSK, David has contributed his expertise to various departments and now works in Technical Services, where he collaborates with analysts to resolve lab issues. Known for his problem-solving skills and teamwork, David continues to be a vital asset to the BSK family.

Meet the BSK StaffInterviewer: Hi David! Can you tell me a little about where you are from. Where is your hometown and where did you go to school?

David: I was born and raised in Walnut Creek, California where I attended Ygnacio Valley High School then Diablo Valley College. I received my chemistry degree from Fresno State University in 1991.

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

David: I’ve worked for BSK for 33 years. During this time, I’ve been fortunate to have worked in Organics Semivolatiles & Volatiles lab, Wet Chem, Metals department, and Microbiology. Today I work in Technical Services where I work with the analyst to figure out issues that arise in the lab.

Interviewer: What do you enjoy most about your job?

David: Each day brings unique challenges and I enjoy solving these problems with the staff.

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

David: Preparing for the move to our new facility was very difficult and we went through some very challenging times. When the move happened, I was amazed to see how all the lab personnel came together and worked as a team. I was proud to see the staff work cohesively and execute the moving plans and problem solve issues along the way. Adversity brought us together and we are a stronger team because we persevered together.

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

David: Fishing is an escape for me and recently I’ve been introduced to bass fishing from a float tube. The best bass fishing is when it’s very hot so now I look forward to the heat of Fresno. What I do for “excitement” is to give my oldest daughter driving lessons. I can now appreciate what my dad had to endure teaching all eight of his kids how to drive. No wonder why he had high blood pressure!

Meet the Staff

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Meet the Staff: Carmen Chacon Office Manager

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Meet The Staff: Carmen is a dedicated and enthusiastic Office Manager at BSK Associates. Born in Fresno, CA, Carmen has a rich history with BSK, starting as a temp-to-hire in December 2014. Carmen thrives on the variety her role offers and values the connections she builds with colleagues, clients, and vendors. Outside of work, she enjoys painting, crocheting, playing the piano, and has a love for travel and history. Join us as we learn more about Carmen’s journey, her contributions to BSK, and some fun personal anecdotes that highlight her vibrant personality.

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

Carmen: I was born in Fresno, CA but I have lived in Huron and Kerman for a short period of my childhood, as my father at the time did field labor work laying irrigation pipe out in the vast fields in what I call la-la land (middle of nowhere).  You moved to where the work was at those times; eventually the family was situated in Fresno for good.  Anytime I see corn fields, I reminisce of my childhood as one of the houses I grew up in, in Kerman, was right next to a corn field.  I went to Turner Elementary School, Kings Canyon Junior High School, Roosevelt High School (Rough Rider), Fresno City College and Clovis Community College.

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

Carmen: I started as a “temp-to-hire” in December 2014 and became a permanent full-time employee on March 25, 2015; I’m on my tenth year with BSK. Woo-hoo!  I came on board as the Office Administrator for the Fresno Engineering Department and was promoted to Office Manager in February 2023.  I’m responsible for supporting the Fresno ENV, GEO, CSD and CORPORATE departments and the other BSK locations when needed.  I assist with the finalizing of reports, proposals, and other documents as needed, provide customer service support, provide field staff with project documents, accounts payable, process vendor invoices, supply maintenance, fleet management and much more…  I serve as a resource to senior managers and project managers in administering project activities as needed.  All-in-all…I manage the Fresno office to make sure it runs smoothly not just for myself, but for everyone involved!

Interviewer: What do you enjoy most about your job?

Carmen: I love the variety this position offers me, there’s never a dull moment.  I’m a people person, I enjoy working with the staff, vendors and clients whether it be in person or on the phone.  Most of all, I get more joy of knowing I can help a fellow co-worker get through their project in a day’s work.  I also enjoy getting to know all our clients and vendors not only on a business level but personal level as well.  I always make an effort to learn their names, as working with people on a “first name” basis; makes a world of difference.

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

Carmen: I would have to say arranging the office move from our Locust address to Laverne.  Grant it… I didn’t do it alone, but it was quite a challenge, and I am very proud to have had a part of that transition.

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

Carmen: I will be celebrating my 40th year anniversary in June with my husband Raul. I have two children, my son Anthony, and my daughter Marie.   I love being a grandmother, I have four grandchildren.  I love many forms of art (i.e. painting, crocheting, crafting, movie theaters, museums, history and piano).  I’ve travelled to Costa Rica where my husband is from and Italy (Rome & Venice), which was the trip of a lifetime, there is so much history there.  I took eight years of piano lessons all the way up to my college years.  I’m going to date myself, I took 6 years of shorthand, which I still use today and enjoy.  When people see me writing in shorthand, they think I’m writing in some form of Arabic…it’s like a second language to me.

Meet the Staff

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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.

Meet the Staff

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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!

 

How BSK is helping the Central Valley's Agricultural Industry with Dairy Digesters

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.

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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.

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