Division of Water Quality Announcement on Retirement of William Moellmer
Water Quality Scientist Retires after notable career
Water Quality scientist Bill Moellmer was a child of the 60s who earned a Ph.D at Berkeley that led him on a path to improving the waterways of Utah in the 21st century.
Moellmer, 69, retired on January 28th after 19 years at the Division of Water Quality. He leaves behind a legacy of water quality improvements and scientific advancements, most notably as the chairman of the Science Panel who established the first-ever tissue based water quality standard for selenium in the Great Salt Lake.
“It’s been a great run,” he told friends, family and colleagues at his retirement party. “I have had a lot of fun. It’s been a great career.”
Walt Baker, director of Water Quality, called Moellmer the “smartest guy in the Division” who has left his mark improving water quality standards in the state.
“Bill is a person who gets things done,” Baker said.
Scientist Mike Reichert echoed similar praises. “He’s a ‘lets do it’ kind of guy,” he said. “Bill and I have been partners sitting side-by-side at the office. He always has a positive attitude. I will miss him.”
During his 19 year career, Moellmer has completed well over 1,000 wasteload allocations deriving permit limits for both municipal and industrial wastewater treatment facilities in Utah. “He always maintained a professional, cordial working relationship with permittees,” Reichert said.
Leland Meyers of Central Davis Sewer District who serves on the Water Quality Board couldn’t agree more. “Bill’s been a real asset to the Division and to the industry,” he said.
Faye Bell, administrative secretary, recalls the time in 2003 when Moellmer was assigned to oversee protection of the watershed in the Uinta Mountains where the Rainbow Family, a loosely organized clan of flower children and hippies, gathered for a week.
“He ran into all his friends,” she said. “He really was one of the children of the 60s.”