Permafrost is stable - until it isn’t. As Arctic industries continue to expand, the ground below our fuel tanks and pipelines is literally thawing, causing dangerous settlement and structural failure. In this episode, we’re joined by Ed Yarmak, President of Arctic Foundations Inc., a pioneer in the development and installation of thermosyphon technology - the passive heat transfer systems used across Alaska, Canada, and beyond to keep permafrost frozen and critical infrastructure standi...

Walter Chartrand, chemist and trainer with the Aviation Training Association, joins Shannon to break down one of the most critical topics in fuel handling: fuel quality. From what “Clean, Dry, On-Specification” really means to the Shore / Store / Deliver framework, Walter shares decades of experience in aviation fuels and storage. Listeners will learn how contaminants like water, solids, and microbes get into fuel, what tests should be run at each custody transfer, and which standards e...

What really happens to a tank at the end of its life? In this episode, we take a deep dive into what it means for a tank to be “out of service” or “permanently closed,” and how those terms differ depending on the regulation in play - especially between 40 CFR 112 and Alaska’s 18 AAC 75. Shannon breaks down what’s required when tanks are removed or left in place, what documentation is needed, and how terms like “grandfathering” can complicate things for facilities hoping to avoid costly upgrad...

In this episode of Tank Talk, host Shannon Oelkers is joined by representatives from the Steel Tank Institute/Steel Plate Fabricators Association (STI/SPFA) to dig into Standard Practice 031 (STI SP031) - the industry guidance for repairing and modifying atmospheric shop-fabricated steel tanks. As steel prices rise and logistics become more complex, especially in places like Alaska, repairing existing tanks has become a more attractive and necessary option. We cover what owners need to know -...

In this episode of Tank Talk, host Shannon Oelkers sits down with two seasoned experts - Joe Mentzer, Standards Engineer at the Steel Tank Institute (STI/SPFA), and Craig Fletcher, Principal of Fletcher Consultants, Inc. - for a deep dive into the STI SP001 standard and what it means for those managing aboveground storage tanks. With over 60 years of combined industry experience, Joe and Craig bring unparalleled insight into the purpose, evolution, and practical application of one of th...

In this episode of Tank Talk, Shannon and Cassie dive into the hot topic of AI and environmental compliance. Cassie Kuzis, part of the Integrity Environmental team, joins the podcast for the first time with Shannon to weigh in on AI. With AI tools becoming more common in operations, Shannon decided to run a little experiment: Can ChatGPT write a Spill Prevention, Control, and Countermeasure (SPCC) Plan? Spoiler alert - it didn’t go well. Shannon walks us through the results of thr...

In this episode of Tank Talk, we dive into the often-misunderstood No Exposure Certification – what it is, what it isn’t, and why it’s not a free pass from stormwater regulations. Shannon and Haley break down the 11 conditions required for this permit exclusion, discuss real-world compliance challenges, and explain why choosing between a SWPPP or a No Exposure Certification requires careful consideration. Think you qualify for No Exposure? You might want to double-check! Spoiler alert: ...

Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plans (SWPPPs) can be confusing - but they don’t have to be. In this episode of Tank Talk, we’re diving into the different types of SWPPPs, how they apply to various industries, and what you need to know to stay compliant. With the 2025 Multi-Sector General Permit (MSGP) expected for Alaska soon, it’s the perfect time to brush up on the basics. Join us as we break down the differences between CGP, MSGP, and MS4 permits, the importance of SIC/NAICS codes,...

Send us a textIn this episode of Tank Talk, we explore the implications of the Supreme Court’s recent Loper Bright decision with shareholder Andy Leman of Kemppel, Huffman & Ellis, P.C. Andy provides a straightforward overview of how this ruling shifts regulatory authority, its potential impact on industries, and what it means for environmental compliance moving forward. From court interpretations to agency rulemaking, this conversation sheds light on the evolving legal landscape and its ...

Send us a textManaging a bulk fuel storage facility can be complex, but it doesn’t have to break the bank. In this bonus episode of Tank Talk, Bulk Fuel Storage Expert Shannon Oelkers and Producer Haley Hall explore the top free resources available to tank farm managers to help streamline operations, improve safety, and ensure compliance. From instructional videos and detailed tank anatomy diagrams to spill response preparation guides and online training courses, we’re highlighting tools that...

Send us a textIn this episode, we talk with Shannon Oelkers and Haley Hall from Integrity Environmental, diving into practical strategies for Alaska’s aging bulk fuel storage infrastructure. Shannon shares cost-effective tips, from managing water in tanks to maintaining connection points, all achievable for under $5,000 and with in-house labor. Learn how small changes like performing water draws, installing pressure-vac vents, and updating overfill prevention systems can mitigate spills and e...

Send us a textJoin us on Tank Talk with Integrity Environmental as we dive into the inspiring journey of Michael O'Brien, a labor and employment lawyer from Davis Wright Tremaine in Fairbanks, Alaska. From Alaskan adventurer to employment law expert, Michael shares insights on the evolving labor landscape, including challenges in equitable overtime and the impact of generational shifts.We discuss how the COVID-19 pandemic has transformed employment practices in Alaska, uncovering untapped opp...

Send us a textDave Ware, the co-founder of Aviation Training Academy, joins us as our guest on this episode. As a seasoned expert, Dave takes us behind the scenes of an industry where precision matters and strict adherence to aviation fuel and safety standards is necessary. Tune in as we address fuel handling, compliance, and innovative solutions, such as advanced fuel monitoring systems and fuel efficiency software that drive regulatory compliance within the aviation sector. Dave discusses t...

Send us a textWhen you have an oil spill, it can be stressful, and the reporting process can be confusing. But, in this episode of Tank Talk, we break down the six critical steps to take immediately after a spill occurs, emphasizing the importance of rapid action and clear communication with authorities to minimize environmental impact. We also dive into the unique challenges terminal managers and operators face, from the stress of providing accurate spill volume data under the watchful eyes ...

Send us a textDuring this episode of Tank Talk, we sit with Graham Wood from the Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation to discuss Alaska's spill prevention and response strategies, most notably the revamped 485 Drill Program. Graham explains the updated regulations that took effect on February 5, 2023, and how it brings clarity to spill response exercises, making them more effective. We explore the specifics of compliance and examine the differences and similarities between ADEC's a...

Send us a textIn this episode, we dive into ADEC's 485 Drill Exercise Program, a vital initiative that ensures safety and preparedness in Alaska's fuel storage and transportation sectors. Join us as we explore the program's objectives and the rigorous training exercises involved in the significant impact of community and environmental protection. Hear firsthand accounts from experts who share their insights on the program's challenges and successes. Whether in the industry or curious about Al...

Send us a textIn this episode, we gear up for the warmer months, focusing on SPCCs and STIs. We'll break down the essentials of Spill Prevention and Countermeasure (SPCC)plans and how they integrate with Steel Tank Institute (STI) inspection standards to ensure robust fuel storage practices. Our experts will share practical tips and insights on maintaining compliance and operational efficiency during the busy summer. Whether managing bulk fuel facilities or interested in industry best practic...

Send us a textTank Talk dives deep into the world of bulk fuel systems by reviving a listener favorite: Oil-Water Separators(OWS). This episode provides an informative exploration of the mechanics and importance of OWS Systems in fuel storage. Shannon discusses how these systems are essential for separating oil from water to prevent contamination, detailing the operational principles, maintenance best practices, and environmental significance. She also tackles common challenges and the latest...

Send us a textColin Doherty from Sundog Charters joins us to reveal the thrills of pioneering fuel delivery throughout Alaska's secluded communities. As we chart the course of Sundog Charters' evolution, we uncover the meticulous dance with regulations and nature's whims that underpin the lifeblood of Alaskan remote delivery. Colin crafts a vivid picture of the strategic pivot from utilizing DOT-regulated trucks to direct deck tank pumping—a move spurred by regulatory pressures and a staunch ...

Send us a textJoin us in unraveling the mysteries of overfill prevention valves as bulk fuel storage expert Shannon Oelkers addresses a listener request. We learn how to recognize and locate an overfill prevention valve on a tank before diving into how they operate and why they are essential. Our conversation covers the valve's role in SPCC regulation and how those can vary between different states, followed by Shannon's expertise shedding light on maintenance and how to avoid common mistakes...