NASSCO’s mission is to set industry standards for the assessment and rehabilitation of underground infrastructure and to assure the continued acceptance of trenchless technologies. In doing so, we provide unbiased support to all technologies equally. For those interested in diving a bit deeper into specific trenchless technologies, NASSCO divisions, such as the ICGA (Infiltration Control Grouting Association) provide additional information and support.

ICGA was formed nearly 20 years ago. Originally a NASSCO committee, the Grout Task Force focused on the proper use of chemical grout to stop infiltration in collection systems. ICGA, which is open to current NASSCO members in good standing, now has an active membership base of 30 contractors, manufacturers, municipalities and engineers across North America.

Dick Schantz, a former chairman of ICGA who also recently retired from Aries Industries, shared his sage advice about the future of ICGA: “I believe the best way for ICGA to make a real impact on this industry is to hear other people’s ideas and keep chemical grout positioned as a viable solution. There are 5 billion feet of sewers in the U.S. with the vast majority of older pipe being VCP [vitrified clay pipe] that has joints every few feet. The pipe is very corrosion-resistant and structurally strong. The problem is the joint. With over a billion sewer joints out there, the joints are as much in the trench as in the pipe. Chemical grout seals the soil in the trench so the water in the trench doesn’t enter the pipe. It’s the only practical solution. The problem is that you can’t inspect it, can’t take a sample, so it’s very difficult for engineers to get comfortable with the process. As I retire and move on, my hope for ICGA is that strides will continue to be made in increased confidence of engineers, and that they take chemical grout as a serious solution.”

Over the past few years, under the leadership of current Chairman Marc Anctil of Logiball, many steps have been made to accomplish this goal. “Our members have worked very hard in the development of ASTM standards, along with white papers and the NASSCO method specifications that were released in 2012,” said Anctil. “ICGA’s role is to promote through its members, trade shows, conferences, publications and other efforts that chemical grouting is a proven maintenance procedure to reduce infiltration and extend the useful life of our sewers.

“ICGA has recently partnered with WEF (Water Environment Federation) and NASSCO to produce an informational webinar on Sept. 18,” continued Anctil. “The webinar will cover the process, proven value and many benefits of chemical grouting.”

Ted DeBoda is executive director of NASSCO. He can be reached at director@nassco.org.