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Diversity

Discover how AWWA helps communities and water utilities thrive by advancing workforce diversity, equity, and inclusion in utility culture.

Webinars about accessing and communicating UCMR5 results

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is hosting a webinar on Feb. 22, 2023, at 1:30 p.m. ET, offering water systems, states and other stakeholders information on accessing and communicating about the Fifth Unregulated Contaminant Monitoring Rule (UCMR5) results. The webinar will be repeated on Feb. 23 at 1:30 p.m. ET. The webinar will explain […]

Lead Communications

AWWA C205-07 Cement-Mortar Protective Lining and Coating for Steel Water Pipe 4 In. (100 mm) and Larger–Shop Applied (PDF)

This standard describes the material, application, and curing of shop-applied cement-mortar protective linings and coatings for steel water pipe and fittings and field jointing of cement-mortar-lined-and-coated steel water pipe and fittings. The inside of the pipe shall receive a cement-mortar lining applied by centrifugally spinning or by a method known to provide equivalent results. The application of cement-mortar linings to miters, angles, bends, reducers, and other special sections, the shape of which precludes application by the spinning process, shall be accomplished by mechanical placement, pneumatic placement, or hand application and finished to produce a smooth, dense surface. The outside of the pipe and specials shall receive a reinforced cement-mortar coating applied by mechanical placement, pneumatic placement, or a method known to provide equivalent results. For field application of cement-mortar lining, refer to ANSI/AWWA C602, Standard for Cement-Mortar Lining of Water Pipelines in Place-4 In. (100 mm) and Larger. For the fabrication criteria for welded steel pipe, refer to ANSI/AWWA C200, Steel Water Pipe-6 In. (150 mm) and Larger. For design considerations either for welded steel pipe or for cement-mortar linings and cement-mortar coatings, refer to AWWA Manual M11, Steel Pipe-A Guide for Design and Installation.

AWWA C205-07 Cement-Mortar Protective Lining and Coating for Steel Water Pipe 4 In. (100 mm) and Larger–Shop Applied (PDF)

This standard describes the material, application, and curing of shop-applied cement-mortar protective linings and coatings for steel water pipe and fittings and field jointing of cement-mortar-lined-and-coated steel water pipe and fittings. The inside of the pipe shall receive a cement-mortar lining applied by centrifugally spinning or by a method known to provide equivalent results. The application of cement-mortar linings to miters, angles, bends, reducers, and other special sections, the shape of which precludes application by the spinning process, shall be accomplished by mechanical placement, pneumatic placement, or hand application and finished to produce a smooth, dense surface. The outside of the pipe and specials shall receive a reinforced cement-mortar coating applied by mechanical placement, pneumatic placement, or a method known to provide equivalent results. For field application of cement-mortar lining, refer to ANSI/AWWA C602, Standard for Cement-Mortar Lining of Water Pipelines in Place-4 In. (100 mm) and Larger. For the fabrication criteria for welded steel pipe, refer to ANSI/AWWA C200, Steel Water Pipe-6 In. (150 mm) and Larger. For design considerations either for welded steel pipe or for cement-mortar linings and cement-mortar coatings, refer to AWWA Manual M11, Steel Pipe-A Guide for Design and Installation.

AWWA C205-07 Cement-Mortar Protective Lining and Coating for Steel Water Pipe 4 In. (100 mm) and Larger–Shop Applied (PDF)

This standard describes the material, application, and curing of shop-applied cement-mortar protective linings and coatings for steel water pipe and fittings and field jointing of cement-mortar-lined-and-coated steel water pipe and fittings. The inside of the pipe shall receive a cement-mortar lining applied by centrifugally spinning or by a method known to provide equivalent results. The application of cement-mortar linings to miters, angles, bends, reducers, and other special sections, the shape of which precludes application by the spinning process, shall be accomplished by mechanical placement, pneumatic placement, or hand application and finished to produce a smooth, dense surface. The outside of the pipe and specials shall receive a reinforced cement-mortar coating applied by mechanical placement, pneumatic placement, or a method known to provide equivalent results. For field application of cement-mortar lining, refer to ANSI/AWWA C602, Standard for Cement-Mortar Lining of Water Pipelines in Place-4 In. (100 mm) and Larger. For the fabrication criteria for welded steel pipe, refer to ANSI/AWWA C200, Steel Water Pipe-6 In. (150 mm) and Larger. For design considerations either for welded steel pipe or for cement-mortar linings and cement-mortar coatings, refer to AWWA Manual M11, Steel Pipe-A Guide for Design and Installation.

Technical Reports

Water Loss Control

Water loss control represents the efforts of water utilities to provide accountability in their operation by reliably auditing their water supplies and implementing controls to minimize system losses. Utilities incur real losses from pipeline leakage and apparent losses when customer water consumption is not properly measured or billed. AWWA advocates the water audit method developed jointly by the International Water Association and AWWA. The IWA/AWWA Water Audit Method provides the best management practice tools and guidance water utilities need to efficiently manage their supplies.

Asset Management

The greatest public health achievement of the 20th century was the construction of reliable water and wastewater systems. The water and wastewater systems that serve the US have worked around the clock for over 100 years. The continued vitality and resiliency of American cities relies on this infrastructure.

Benchmarking

The annual Utility Benchmarking Survey produces a comprehensive industry report with performance indicator results by utility type, utility size, and geographic region.

Pipeline Condition Assessment

Students & Young Professionals

Join AWWA’s community for students and young professionals, offering resources, networking, and career development in the water industry.

Terms of Use

By accessing, browsing or otherwise using this Site, you acknowledge that you have read, understand and agree to be bound by these Terms; that you agree to comply with all applicable laws and regulations governing the Site

Value of Water

AWWA Opcert Exam Prep App

Prepare for water operator certification with AWWA’s Exam Prep App. Access 2,800+ practice questions and track your progress.

Innovation Awards

Exemplary Source Water Protection Award

EPA Risk Communication about UCMR5 Observations

This week the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) scheduled two webinars on implementation of the ongoing Unregulated Contaminants Monitoring Rule Monitoring (UCMR5). All systems that serve more than 3,300 persons should be prepared to implement UCMR5 monitoring.   Note: If you with a system serving more than 3,300 persons and are not familiar with UCMR5, […]

Water Utility Insider – August 2, 2024

AWWA updates national PFAS cost estimate In April 2024, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) released new monitoring data for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) from the Fifth Unregulated Contaminant Monitoring Rule (UCMR 5), shortly after publishing the final rulemaking setting drinking water standards for six PFAS. Using this data, AWWA requested that Corona Environmental […]

Release of survey about “Perceptions of Tap Water”

This morning, AWWA released the results from its third annual U.S. consumer poll on “Perceptions of Tap Water.” The poll was conducted by Morning Consult on behalf AWWA in June. A written and visual summary of the survey results are available on AWWA’s Value of Water page. The survey results indicate: Nearly 75% of respondents […]

Maine wastewater utility provides valuable community virus testing

Three times a week, operators at the Portland Water District in Maine unpack a test kit box. They pull out ice packs, an insulated bag, shipping label, paperwork and plastic containers. Then they dip a jug into the plant’s influent composite sampler, shake it up and pour the wastewater into sample containers, ready to ship […]

From crisis to confidence: Iqaluit’s source water protection triumph

In the remote reaches of the Canadian Arctic lies the City of Iqaluit, a community of around 8,500 residents. At the heart of this community lies Lake Geraldine, the primary source of the city’s water supply. However, Iqaluit’s reliance on this pristine raw water source comes with unique challenges, especially during the long and harsh […]

Public Communications Achievement Award

PFAS

Per and polyfluoroalkyl substances are persistent synthetic compounds used in a variety of industrial and consumer product applications including non-stick cookware and firefighting foams. The presence of PFAS compounds in source water and drinking water is of increasing public concern due to their widespread use and environmental persistence. The resources included on this page provide information and guidance for water professionals challenged to address this contaminant.

Engineering Modeling Applications

Models of water distribution systems have a long history — likely longer than most realize. However, in recent decades, the functional capabilities, user interfaces, and processing algorithms have markedly improved. While many professionals in the water sector may have reviewed or even developed a model in the past, today's practice of modeling has evolved significantly, and with the proliferation of advanced technology throughout the water sector, tomorrow's engineers and operators will commonly use even more advanced models of our vital water infrastructure.

Opflow Publications Award

Water/Wastewater Agency Response Network

A Water and Wastewater Agency Response Network is a network of utilities helping other utilities to respond to and recover from emergencies. The purpose of a WARN is to provide a method whereby water/wastewater utilities that have sustained or anticipate damages from natural or human-caused incidents can provide and receive emergency aid and assistance in the form of personnel, equipment, materials and other associated services as necessary from other water/wastewater utilities.

Source Water Protection

Protecting sources of drinking water is an effective way to reduce risks to public health, instill customer confidence, and control water treatment costs. Addressing water quality concerns at the source also has many other environmental and societal benefits that are not seen from treatment alone.

Advisories & Water Insiders

Advisories for our members.

Data Products

Access AWWA’s data products for comprehensive water industry insights. Enhance decision-making with our reliable data and analytics.

Intelligent Water Systems

AWWA Resources on Water Loss

Workforce Curated Resource Collection

AWWA Resources on Water Loss

Leadership & Governance

Explore AWWA’s governance structure, policies, and leadership roles dedicated to advancing water quality and management.

Transformative Water Leadership Academy

Develop future water utility leaders with the Transformative Water Leadership Academy. Apply now for this 10-month leadership program.

eLearning Course Catalog

Browse AWWA’s eLearning courses for water professionals. Enhance your skills and advance your career with our comprehensive online training.

Effective Corrosion Control Starts Here

Controlling Non-Revenue Water Certificate Program

Partnership for Clean Water

Join the Partnership for Clean Water to enhance water treatment processes and ensure safe, high-quality drinking water for communities.

Technology

Promoting the implementation of circular economies in the water sector to address resource constraints for a resilient future of water.

Water Utility Insiders – October 14, 2022

LCRI Rulemaking comments timeline The 60-day timeline for comments during the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Unfunded Mandates Reform Act (UMRA) / Federalism consultation for the Lead and Copper Rules Improvements (LCRI) started yesterday. Comments from water systems should be submitted to Docket EPA-HQ-OW-2022-0813. The purpose of this step of rule development is to identify […]

UCMR 5 data release

Water utilities should prepare for news reports and customer inquiries about per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), lithium and other emerging contaminants following the public release of monitoring data from the Fifth Unregulated Contaminant Monitoring Rule (UCMR 5), expected this month.  AWWA anticipates the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) will post the occurrence data accrued to-date […]

Tap water survey finds communication key to consumer perception of safety

Consumers who remember receiving a recent communication from their water utilities are more than three times as likely to report their tap water’s safety has improved, according to a survey conducted by Morning Consult on behalf of the American Water Works Association (AWWA). The May 2023 poll called “Public Perceptions of Tap Water” generated responses […]

Second UCMR 5 data release

Water utilities may receive media and customer inquiries about per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and lithium following the public release of the second batch of monitoring data from the Fifth Unregulated Contaminant Monitoring Rule (UCMR 5). While EPA has not (as yet) issued a press release, the agency is making stakeholders aware that the data […]

Release of survey about “Public Perceptions of Tap Water”

This morning, AWWA released the results from its fourth annual U.S. consumer poll on “Public Perceptions of Tap Water.” The poll was conducted by Morning Consult on behalf AWWA in May. A written and visual summary of the survey results are available on AWWA’s Value of Water page. The results highlight the importance of communication […]

Final Primary Drinking Water Standard for PFAS

AWWA expects the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) will announce its final rule on per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in drinking water as soon as next week. Given the high level of public interest in PFAS, water utilities should prepare for news reports and customer inquiries resulting from the announcement. To-date EPA has not indicated […]

AWWA Member Spotlight: Holly Gohlke, Gaylord, Mich.

Holly Gohlke of Gaylord, Mich., is the school and child care drinking water specialist with the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy (EGLE). Michigan appropriated $4.5 million in 2016 to its Department of Education to reimburse schools for testing their water for lead, replacing fixtures, and purchasing filters. Gohlke helped administer the program […]

2024 U.S. Water Utility Residential Customer Satisfaction Study

Water utilities that serve at least 400,000 customers should be aware that the annual customer satisfaction survey from J.D. Power has been completed, according to a J.D. Power press release. (Note: AWWA is not a partner in this survey. We are sending this advisory to allow member utilities to prepare for potential media and/or customer […]

Release of survey about “Public Perceptions of Tap Water”

This morning, AWWA released the results from its fifth annual U.S. consumer poll, “Public Perceptions of Tap Water.” The poll was conducted by Morning Consult on behalf AWWA in May 2024. A written and visual summary of the survey results are available on AWWA’s Value of Water page. The results showed respondents trust their water […]

AWWA COMMENT PERIOD ON AWWA C652, Disinfection of Water-Storage Facilities

AWWA COMMENT PERIOD ON AWWA C652, Disinfection of Water-Storage Facilities September 19, 2025 AWWA solicits public comments on all proposed new AWWA Standards, and on all proposed revisions, reaffirmations, or withdrawals of existing AWWA Standards. The referenced standards project is being considered for approval and the publication of this notice begins the 45-day public comment […]

Interesting Times: Water in a Time of Turbulence

Water Quality Technology Conference

Discover the latest science, research, and engineering and solutions to fight drinking water contamination.

Membrane Technology Conference

Discover new innovations in advanced water treatment at the AMTA/AWWA Membrane Technology Conference.

Southern Water Utility Roundtable: Shared Challenges, Innovative Solutions

Effective Utility Management Seminar

Water Utility Insiders – August 4, 2023

FEMA recognizes water systems as independent community lifelines The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) updated its Community Lifelines on Aug. 1, creating a new “Water Systems” Community Lifeline. FEMA defines Community Lifelines as “fundamental services that, when stabilized, enable all other aspects of society to function,” and the agency uses these lifelines to support objectives-based […]

Water Utility Insiders – February 2, 2024

AWWA testifies at U.S. House Subcommittee hearing Kevin Morley, AWWA’s federal relations manager, testified before the U.S. House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Environment, Manufacturing, and Critical Materials during a hearing entitled, “Ensuring the Cybersecurity of America’s Drinking Water Systems.” In his testimony, Morley stressed the need for increased collaboration between the U.S. Environmental Protection […]

Water infrastructure project a winning education opportunity in Vancouver, B.C.

Located in British Columbia, Canada, Metro Vancouver is a federation of 21 municipalities, one electoral area, and one treaty First Nation, that collaboratively plans for and delivers regional-scale services, including drinking water, to 2.8 million residents. The drinking water comes from rainfall and snowmelt in three water supply areas, and Metro Vancouver also owns, maintains, […]

Remote Canadian city overcomes mysterious ‘Void’ challenge

The City of Iqaluit, with a population of about 8,500, is the capital of the Canadian territory of Nunavut and is about 1,275 miles north of Montreal. During winter months, Iqaluit is accessible only by air, which makes importing goods, like bottled water, expensive and time consuming. In October 2021, this remote community experienced a […]

Releasing UCMR 5 data

As noted in an Aug. 14 AWWA advisory, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is preparing to publicly release monitoring data from the Fifth Unregulated Contaminant Monitoring Rule (UCMR 5). We now know that EPA will release the first of 12 batches of data tomorrow morning (Aug. 17, 2023) via press release. Water utilities should […]

Proposed PFAS drinking water standards

Water utilities should prepare for media inquiries about per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) as the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) today proposed the first national primary drinking water standards for six PFAS. It is too early to offer a detailed overview of the proposal, but there are several important highlights to note. The proposal establishes […]

Latest State of the Water Industry Report highlights continued optimism, preparedness

Despite climate change-related challenges, aging infrastructure, threats to water supply, and other obstacles, the water community is feeling more optimistic and prepared to manage major issues and improve water operations, according to the most recent survey conducted by the American Water Works Association (AWWA). AWWA annually publishes a State of the Water Industry report based […]

Innovative disinfection technique saves water, time and money

After nearly a decade of trial and error, Denver Water is pioneering a disinfection method that’s saving millions of gallons of water, reducing staff time, and nearly eliminating expensive pipe replacement do-overs. “Were all the studies and effort and research worth it?” said Fred Sanchez, Denver Water’s water quality manager. “You’re darn straight it was.”  […]

Draft of hexavalent chromium health assessment

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) today released a draft toxicological review for hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)). Water utilities should be prepared for potential media inquiries resulting from the assessment. EPA health assessments provide a reference dose and/or a cancer slope factor that is used to derive maximum contaminant level goals (MCLGs) and health advisories (HAs). […]

Customer communications key to Revised Lead and Copper Rule

October 16, 2024 is coming. That is the date when all U.S. water utilities, whether they have lead service lines or not, must comply with certain requirements established by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) under its Revised Lead and Copper Rule (LCRR) to reduce exposure to lead and copper from water pipes and plumbing.  […]

2023 AWWA survey: Water utility compensation increases higher than projected

The North American water sector is experiencing higher-than-projected increases in compensation across all sizes of utilities, according to a 2023 survey presented by the American Water Works Association (AWWA). AWWA’s Water and Wastewater Utility Compensation Survey showed that from 2022 to 2023, utilities’ salaries increased by these percentages: 6.7% for large utilities (100,000 or more […]

AWWA Career Zone – How to Keep Employees Engaged in a Hybrid Workplace

Author Jennifer Persike, president/founder of Jennifer Persike & Company, is an innovative strategist and visionary leader with more than 30 years of experience with California water and energy utilities, statewide associations, non-profits and corporations. It’s been four years since COVID-19 turned the world upside down. Although many things are returning to normal, how we work […]

Final Lead and Copper Rule Improvements announced

This morning, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced its final Lead and Copper Rule Improvements (LCRI). Utilities should prepare for questions from customers, public officials and media about existing lead regulations and the new LCRI requirements. Among the key requirements in the final LCRI are: All systems to fully replace all lead and galvanized […]

Water sector evaluating U.S. EPA’s newly-released Lead and Copper Rule Improvements rule

Water systems across the United States, with few exceptions, must identify and replace lead service lines within 10 years, according to the final Lead and Copper Rule Improvements (LCRI) rule released Oct. 8 by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The rule also lowers the lead action level from 15 parts per billion to 10 […]

AWWA COMMENT PERIOD ON AWWA C810, Replacement and Flushing of Lead Service Lines

AWWA COMMENT PERIOD ON AWWA C810, Replacement and Flushing of Lead Service Lines August 8, 2025 AWWA solicits public comments on all proposed new AWWA Standards, and on all proposed revisions, reaffirmations, or withdrawals of existing AWWA Standards. The referenced standards project is being considered for approval and the publication of this notice begins the […]

Article about PFAS occurrence data

An article published last week by USA Today about occurrence data of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in water systems may draw inquiries from local media and consumers. The article uses data from the ninth data release of the fifth Unregulated Contaminant Monitoring Rule (UCMR 5), which was published by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency […]

Distribution System Operations & Maintenance

The operation and maintenance of water distribution systems includes maintenance of water quality, system management programs, and operation and maintenance of facilities. Explore AWWA’s extensive manuals and standards on this topic to develop a complete program for the management, operation, and maintenance of a small, medium-sized, or large water distribution system.

Volunteer

Get involved with AWWA by volunteering. Contribute your skills and passion to support water industry initiatives and make a positive impact.

Membership Testimonial

Young Professionals Summit

The world of water is finite. Find new ways to protect and conserve.

Financing, Accounting and Rates

AWWA Policy Statement on Financing, Accounting and Rates The American Water Works Association (AWWA) believes that the public can best be provided water and wastewater services by self-susta...

Research

AWWA Policy Statement on Research The American Water Works Association (AWWA) supports research for all aspects of water, including, but not limited to, public health protection, quality an...

Your blueprint for quickly building a presentation from scratch

Carl Guess, an executive presentation coach with Elevator Speech, has worked with leaders in technology, healthcare and retail organizations. This column summarizes tips he recently shared with the American Water Works Association staff about how to quickly build a presentation from scratch.  “What separates great presenters from those who are just OK is the amount […]

Water Utility Insiders – March 1, 2024

U.S. Sen. Padilla introduces bill to establish permanent low-income assistance program U.S. Sen Alex Padilla (D-California) introduced legislation this week to establish a permanent Low-Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP). AWWA, along with the National Association of Clean Water Agencies (NACWA), the Association of Metropolitan Water Agencies (NACWA), the National Association of Water Companies (NAWC), […]

Water Utility Insiders – July 7, 2023

AWWA provides comments on draft U.S. PFAS legislation AWWA submitted comments this week to the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works (EPW), outlining its concerns with a recently released draft of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) legislation and offering suggestions for improvements. The comments address each section individually and push for the inclusion of […]

Water Utility Insiders – January 20, 2023

New date set for AWWA Fly-In – March 22-23 The dates for this year’s AWWA Water Matters! Fly-In are being pushed back one week to March 22-23. The move comes after leadership in the U.S. House of Representatives issued its calendar making the original Fly-In dates a “district work period,” meaning House members will be […]

Water Utility Insiders – February 3, 2023

CWA affordability assessment guidance finalized The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) completed revising its Clean Water Act (CWA) Financial Capability Assessment Guidance, closely tracking the draft guidance the agency circulated for comment in 2022 – guidance about which AWWA and others raised significant concerns. Those concerns do not appear to be addressed in the final […]

Water Utility Insiders – December 22, 2023

U.S. congressman to introduce cybersecurity legislation The U.S. House of Representatives is currently on holiday break, but Rep. Rick Crawford (R-Ark) has stated that he will soon introduce legislation to authorize and fund the formation of a water risk and resiliency organization (WRRO). The WRRO would coordinate the development of cybersecurity requirements for drinking water […]

Water community demonstrates top-notch skills during ACE23 competitions

Amid cheering and high-fives, the water community’s top-notch competitors demonstrated their advanced skills, knowledge and experience during the past week’s exciting contests at the American Water Works Association’s (AWWA) Annual Conference and Exposition (ACE23) in Toronto. Following is a summary of ACE23 contest results: Hydrant Hysteria: Two-member teams race to assemble a specified hydrant Men […]

Training, skills, dedication on display at ACE24 competitions

Amid cheering and high-fives, the water community celebrated its top contenders during the past week’s hard-fought competitions at the American Water Works Association’s (AWWA) Annual Conference and Exposition (ACE24) in Anaheim, California. Former champions and newcomers representing AWWA sections battled for the 2024 titles and bragging rights in skills competitions and water taste tests, a […]

TECH-TIP – pH Measurement

Although it is not a parameter directly reportable to the Partnership for Safe Water, pH is an important water quality and process control parameter for both the treatment plant and distribution system.  The pH of the water is a parameter that can impact the effectiveness of many water treatment processes, including coagulation, disinfection and disinfectant […]

Tap water survey finds communication is key in consumer perception of safety

Consumers who remember receiving a recent communication from their water utilities are more than three times as likely to report their water’s safety has improved, according to a survey conducted by Morning Consult on behalf of the American Water Works Association (AWWA). The May 2023 poll, called “Public Perceptions of Tap Water,” included responses from […]

Tackling the tenacious issue of infrastructure renewal and replacement

Infrastructure renewal and replacement is an ongoing challenge for a large number of North American water and wastewater systems. It has ranked as the top issue impacting the water community for the past decade in annual surveys conducted by the American Water Works Association (AWWA). The latest State of the Water Industry (SOTWI) report notes […]

Rule to clarify Consumer Confidence Reports

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced proposed revisions to its Consumer Confidence Report Rule (CCR). The revisions are being driven by requirements of America’s Water Infrastructure Act of 2018 (AWIA).  The rule, if finalized, would: Codify in regulation most provisions of the 2013 electronic delivery memo to allow community water systems (CWS) to continue […]

Revised Policy Statement: Financing, Accounting, and Rates

The following revised AWWA Policy Statement on Management of Groundwater has been approved by the Technical and Educational Council for member comment.   Comments on the policy statement will be reviewed by AWWA staff and forwarded to the Executive Committee if the comments are minor or referred back to the originating body if the comments are substantive. Policies forwarded […]

Preserving Cedar Lake: A case study on successful source water protection in Winterset, Iowa

Winterset, Iowa, is well known for being the birthplace of American film icon John Wayne. The city is also well known for Cedar Lake, which has been a reliable source of drinking water for the city’s residents. However, the lake has faced difficulties due to high watershed levels, silt intrusion, nutrient contamination and infrastructure needs. […]

Poll shows 7 in 10 consumers consider tap water safe

Nearly three-in-four people perceive their home’s tap water as safe, according to a survey conducted by Morning Consult on behalf of the American Water Works Association (AWWA), and nearly 80% trust their water utility. The June 2022 poll, titled “Public Perceptions of Tap Water,” included 1,977 Americans served by water utilities. The survey showed approximately […]

PFAS, lithium among contaminants targeted in expanded utility monitoring

All sizes of U.S. water utilities are ramping up for monitoring activities required in the Fifth Unregulated Contaminant Monitoring Rule (UCMR 5) that was finalized by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in December 2021. UCMR is a recurring national water quality monitoring program required by the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA). It requires EPA […]

Petition challenging cybersecurity rule

The attorneys general (AG) for the states of Missouri, Arkansas and Iowa have filed a petition for review in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit challenging the legality of the March 3 U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) cybersecurity rule. The EPA rule directs state primacy agencies to assess the cybersecurity resilience of […]

New EPA guidance a reminder: LCRR requirements around the corner

Last week’s release by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) of guidance related to lead service line inventories is a timely reminder that Oct. 16, 2024, is coming. That’s the compliance date for the Lead and Copper Rule Revisions (LCRR). The new lead service line inventory guidance, which was announced in an Aug. 4 EPA […]

New academy to equip water leaders for future

Emerging water utility leaders, this is your moment! Water professionals with three-to-ten years of full-time work experience can apply today for the Transformative Water Leadership Academy (TWLA) – a collaboration between the American Water Works Association (AWWA) and the WaterNow Alliance — to prepare a diverse, next generation of water utility leaders for sustainable community […]

Latest survey shows 7 in 10 consumers consider their tap water safe

Nearly three-in-four people perceive their home’s tap water as safe, according to a survey conducted by Morning Consult on behalf of the American Water Works Association (AWWA), and nearly 80% trust their water utility. The June 2022 poll, titled “Public Perceptions of Tap Water,” included 1,977 Americans served by water utilities. The survey showed approximately […]

Latest AWWA survey reports overall increase in water sector compensation

The North American water sector is experiencing increases in compensation across all sizes of utilities, according to a 2022 survey conducted by the American Water Works Association (AWWA). The 25th annual Water and Wastewater Utilities Compensation Survey showed that from 2021 to 2022, large utilities’ salaries increased 1.7% and small utilities’ salaries increased 1.9%. Medium-sized […]

From battleground to boardroom, new AWWA president a tested leader

Having served 10 years as an active U.S. Army officer and an additional 10 years as a reservist, Patrick Kerr begins his one-year term this month as the 142nd president of the American Water Works Association (AWWA) with decades of experience working with others to get results. “There are a lot of parallels between being […]

Five tips for emphasizing your skill set on your resume

Want to learn how to highlight your best self on your resume? Check out the summary below from “How Can You Make Yourself Sound Better on Your Resume?” from Rachel Fletcher, in the advice section of the American Water Works Association’s Career Center. This website provides free resources about topics ranging from interviews and resumes […]

First U.S. PFAS drinking water standards set, CERCLA legislation introduced

In two related events last week, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) released final drinking water standards for six per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), and legislation was introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives to exempt water utilities from PFAS contamination liability under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act (CERCLA). The final PFAS […]

EPA proposes first-ever drinking water standards for six PFAS

U.S. water utilities are working to absorb details of the first national primary drinking water standard for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) proposed by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). EPA’s proposal, announced March 14, includes maximum contaminant levels for six PFAS and is expected to be finalized by the end of 2023. The agency […]

Canadian water system tackling water loss systematically

When you’re the home of the world’s largest fishing lure, your water supply is a big deal. So, when the City of Lacombe in Alberta, Canada, decided to get a handle on its water loss situation in 2021, the project became a priority. The first step the city took was to conduct an American Water […]

AWWA’s State of the Water Industry report reveals source water protection as top priority for water sector

Protecting water at its source has emerged as the leading concern for the water sector, according to the American Water Works Association’s (AWWA) 2024 State of the Water Industry (SOTWI). This marks a notable evolution in priorities, as source water protection surpasses aging infrastructure as the top challenge identified by water professionals. The report, based […]

AWWA’s State of the Water Industry report now available

Continued impacts from the ongoing global pandemic, concerns about drought and water contaminants, and workforce shortages were the key issues identified in the American Water Works Association’s (AWWA) annual State of the Water Industry report, which is now available. Since 2004, AWWA has published the annual State of the Water Industry Report based on survey […]

AWWA’s 2023 State of the Water Industry reports sector optimism on the rise

Despite climate change-related challenges, aging infrastructure, threats to water supply, and other obstacles, water sector optimism and preparedness is on the rise, according to the newly published AWWA’s 2023 State of the Water Industry report, which is available to download for free. The 2023 report provides insight into top issues facing the water sector such […]

AWWA survey: Infrastructure, financing and supply top challenges

Participants in the American Water Works Association’s (AWWA) latest annual survey ranked the top issues facing the water community as infrastructure renewal and replacement, capital improvement financing, and long-term drinking water supply. This year’s ranking of the top 20 issues is detailed in AWWA’s 2022 State of the Water Industry (SOTWI) report, available now. The […]

AWWA statement on proposed PFAS drinking water standards

As a community of water professionals, AWWA and its members share EPA’s desire to keep harmful levels of PFAS out of the nation’s drinking water. We support setting national drinking water standards for PFAS that protect all consumers, including the most sensitive populations, using the best available science. We stand for transparency, and support requirements […]

AWWA Member Spotlight – Linda Correia, Fall River, Mass.

Position: Drinking water consultant, Massachusetts Public Water Supplies  Education/Certifications: B.S., Marine Biology, Roger Williams College; MBA, Bryant University; Grade 4 treatment and distribution certifications, Massachusetts Board of Operators Career background: I began working in the drinking water field in 1992 as a laboratory technician with the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority. I obtained a treatment operator’s […]

AWWA Member Spotlight – Denita Bonhart, Cleveland, Ohio

Denita Bonhart is manager of the special projects group at the Cleveland Water Division. With expertise in project management and a passion for continuous learning, she coordinates projects, serves as the human resources lead, and contributes to the Water Distribution Worker Apprenticeship Program. Education/certification: Certificate in Project Management, Kent State University Job duties: I oversee […]

AWWA Member Spotlight – Caitlin Cavanagh, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Caitlin Cavanagh, a water resources engineer at AECOM in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, specializes in green infrastructure and stormwater management design. She has worked on projects across the East Coast to enhance water systems and community resilience. Education/certification: B.S., Civil & Environmental Engineering, Villanova University; PE, Pennsylvania Job duties: I have designed stormwater best management practices (BMPs) […]

AWWA Councils, think tanks contribute insights to Water 2050 initiative

The pathway to a sustainable water future is beginning to take shape, as members of the water community contribute unique insights and recommendations through the Water 2050 initiative. Hosted by the American Water Works Association (AWWA), Water 2050 is a collaborative effort to envision the future of water and chart a course for success and […]

Water Utility Insider – July 19, 2024

Results of fourth six-year review announced The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) released its fourth “six-year review” of Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) primary standards. The 1996 amendments to the SDWA created this regular review cycle. Previous six-year reviews led to the Revised Total Coliform Rule and the ongoing revision of the Surface Water Treatment […]

Consumers trust water utilities, scientists most for information about tap water

Consumers place the most trust in water utilities and scientists to provide them with information about their tap water compared to other entities, according to a survey conducted by Morning Consult on behalf of the American Water Works Association (AWWA). The May 2024 poll, called “Public Perceptions of Tap Water,” included responses from 2,010 adults […]

U.S. survey gauges public perceptions of tap water

Consumers place the most trust in water utilities and scientists to provide them information about their tap water compared to other entities, according to a survey conducted by Morning Consult on behalf of the American Water Works Association (AWWA). The May 2024 poll, called “Public Perceptions of Tap Water,” obtained 2,010 responses from adults served […]

2024 AWWA survey: Water utility compensation increases overall from previous year

The North American water sector is experiencing overall increases in compensation across all sizes of utilities, according to a 2024 survey presented by the American Water Works Association (AWWA). AWWA’s Water and Wastewater Utility Compensation Survey showed that from 2023 to 2024, utilities’ salaries increased by these percentages: Reports based on results from the 27th […]

High school training program primes pipeline for Texas water operators

Responding to a workforce shortage stemming from retiring water professionals, the Texas Section of the American Water Works Association (TAWWA) has developed a new training program – dubbed SETH (Science, Engineering, Technology, Health) Water Operator Training Program – to help fill a talent pipeline for Texas water operators. “Texas is facing a workforce issue as […]

Water sector organizations partner on innovative generative AI research project

WRF, AWWA, WEF, Karmous Edwards Consulting to develop GenAI best practices for water utilities Today, the American Water Works Association (AWWA), in collaboration with the Water Environment Federation (WEF), The Water Research Foundation (WRF) and Karmous Edwards Consulting (KEC), launched a project on the Role of Generative AI (GenAI) for the Global Water Sector. The […]

Water Utility Insider – January 17, 2025

AWWA files nonbinding statement of issues for LCRI petition On Wednesday, the American Water Works Association (AWWA) filed its Nonbinding Statement of Issues in the ongoing Petition for Review of the Lead and Copper Rule Improvements (LCRI) in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit. The petition for judicial review was […]

Water organizations exploring GenAI best practices for sector

The American Water Works Association, in collaboration with the Water Environment Federation (WEF), The Water Research Foundation (WRF) and Karmous Edwards Consulting (KEC), is embarking on a new research project to examine the potential of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) in the water sector. The project team – which includes representatives from global water utilities – […]

Utility benchmarking provides useful staffing level comparisons

One of the most used indicators from the AWWA Utility Benchmarking Survey is the Staffing Levels metric, which allows participating utilities to compare their staffing levels to peer utilities. This is useful for aligning with strategic priorities, planning for anticipated changes in service delivery, and determining whether current resources are adequate to meet service levels. […]

Water Utility Insider – March 14, 2025

EPA initiates deregulatory push In a series of announcements this week, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) identified rulemakings and other activities across a wide range of topics in a push towards reducing regulatory burden. Across 31 actions, EPA will, amongst other things, review and revise: The definition of Waters of the United States (WOTUS), […]

Water Utility Insider – June 6, 2025

Court grants 45-day stay in judicial review of PFAS rule The U.S.  Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia has granted a request from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to pause proceedings in a judicial review of the national PFAS rule.  The 45-day abeyance lasts until July 21. On Wednesday, EPA requested more […]

Capital funding emerges as top challenge in AWWA’s State of the Water Industry Report

The American Water Works Association (AWWA) today announced the release of its 2025 State of the Water Industry (SOTWI) Report, which revealed that financing for capital improvements is the top challenge among water sector professionals. Based on insights from 3,575 water professionals surveyed in late 2024, the report provides a comprehensive look at the most […]

Bragging rights at stake in ACE25 competitions

The Exhibit Hall filled with roars and celebrations as water pros competed in several events at the American Water Works Association’s (AWWA) Annual Conference and Exposition (ACE25) in Denver. Former and defending champions as well as newcomers competed fiercely for the 2025 titles and bragging rights for their sections in several crowd-pleasing traditions at ACE. […]

Cybersecurity a top priority for utilities, report finds

The 2025 iteration of the American Water Works Association’s (AWWA) State of the Water Industry survey included new questions exploring natural and human-caused hazards facing water utility professionals. Among human-caused hazards, cybersecurity was the No. 1 concern. Two-thirds of utility executives surveyed said cybersecurity and privacy are top priorities moving into this year. However, one-quarter […]

Keep Funds Flowing: How SRFs overhauled an outdated wastewater system in Colorado

When the Security Sanitation District southwest of Colorado Springs set out to renovate its wastewater treatment plant, it had been 30 years since the last update. While the district hadn’t violated federal regulations for effluent quality, “we were bumping up against those numbers all of the time,” said Roy Heald, general manager of the district. […]

Help AWWA tell Congress to ‘Keep Funds Flowing’ for water infrastructure

Proposed budget cuts in the U.S. Congress threaten to reduce funding for loans under the State Revolving Fund (SRF) and Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (WIFIA) — critical financing for countless infrastructure improvements across the United States. That’s why the American Water Works Association has launched the “Keep Funds Flowing” campaign. Through stories that […]

Keep Funds Flowing: How SRFs are helping tackle lead service line replacement in Illinois

The water utility in Springfield, Illinois, has long relied on State Revolving Funds (SRFs) for infrastructure upgrades. In the late 1990s, SRFs financed a clarifier upgrade, and in 2009, a new chemical feed building at the water treatment plant and distribution system meter replacements. More recently, though, the utility has relied on SRFs to pay […]

Keep Funds Flowing: SRF loans deliver big savings and clearer water for Utah residents

For most of its supply, the Granger-Hunter Improvement District in West Valley City, Utah, purchases water sourced from mountain reservoirs near Park City. But about one-quarter of the supply comes from groundwater containing high levels of iron, manganese and ammonia, which can turn water in homes brown, black or yellow. While it doesn’t exceed primary […]

How are you feeling about the water industry? Tell us!

The State of the Water Industry survey is open. As a valuable member of AWWA, you should have received an invitation to participate via email (from AWWA Research or research@awwa.org). If not, email us and we will send it to you. The survey asks water industry professionals about their key challenges and emerging concerns to gain […]