OKLAHOMA RURAL WATER ASSOCIATION WHO WE

Are

Purpose

The Oklahoma Rural Water Association (ORWA) is a non-profit organization whose purpose is to assist water and wastewater systems with day-to-day operational and management problems.

Formed

ORWA was formed in 1970. Prior to that, rural and small utilities in Oklahoma had little, if any voice in legislative and regulatory issues. They also had no on-site technical assistance provider in the state to assist utilities with their systems needs. Today, more than 550 water and/or wastewater utilities are members of the ORWA.

Mission

To enhance the quality of life in Oklahoma, through the development and delivery services and programs, for the benefit of ORWA members and the rural people they serve. 3.98 million people are currently served in Oklahoma.

Staff

As of the Rally, we will have 31 full-time employees on staff at ORWA including Water Circuit Riders, Wastewater Technicians and Trainers, Water Trainers and Source Water Technicians that provide on-site training and technical assistance to utility operations each day throughout the state.

Continuing Education

Each year ORWA holds an Annual Technical Conference, an Equipment Expo, and a Fall Conference. During these events, classes are held for management, board and office personnel, as well as for water and wastewater operators.

Legislative

ORWA provides a legislative voice for water and wastewater utilities on issues in the state and federal levels during legislative sessions. ORWA is a member of the National Rural Water Association which brings all state rural water associations together to speak from one national organization at the federal level to ensure that rules and regulations are reasonable, practical and affordable for all systems.

Governance

ORWA is governed by a 16-member non-paid Board of Directors. The State of Oklahoma is divided up into four regions, with four directors elected by those member systems to represent each region.

Board Of Directors