Deadline: 22-Oct-2025
The Water Research Foundation (WRF) has announced a new research funding opportunity titled State-of-Practice Manual for Inflow and Infiltration Detection and Mitigation at Street and Private Lateral Levels (RFP 5365).
This initiative seeks innovative approaches to tackle one of the most persistent challenges in wastewater management: inflow and infiltration (I/I).
Inflow and infiltration occur when stormwater or groundwater enters sanitary sewer systems, increasing treatment plant inflows significantly beyond normal levels. This can overwhelm infrastructure, increase operating costs, cause blockages, and even lead to backups and overflows. Studies suggest that as much as 80% of I/I originates on private property, making mitigation particularly challenging since most efforts to date have focused on the public sewer system. Addressing private laterals has proven both costly and technologically difficult, underscoring the urgent need for targeted solutions.
The project aims to evaluate best practices across municipalities, including the detection of I/I at both the street and private lateral levels, and strategies utilities have used to rehabilitate private systems. It also emphasizes emerging technologies, policies, and homeowner engagement approaches that can support more effective interventions. With many proven solutions for mainlines being cost-prohibitive or poorly suited for private laterals, the development of a comprehensive state-of-practice manual is expected to provide a practical roadmap for utilities.
Research teams are encouraged to assess programs from the last decade, focusing on policies, funding mechanisms, and innovative technologies that support I/I detection and remediation. Insights on trenchless methods, robotic tools for small-diameter pipes, distributed temperature sensing, low-cost monitoring systems, and machine learning applications are of particular interest. The study will also examine how undersized storm sewers contribute to I/I during extreme weather events.
Deliverables will include a detailed manual highlighting successful programs, innovative practices, and effective partnerships between utilities, municipalities, and homeowners. The manual is expected to serve as a resource for utilities across North America, equipping them with tested methods and emerging solutions to better manage I/I challenges at the private property level.
This two-year project represents an important step toward strengthening the resilience of wastewater systems while reducing costs and risks for utilities and communities alike.
For more information, visit WRF.
