Letter from the TRWA Executive Director

Letter from the TRWA Executive Director

Dear TRWA Members,

This month I traveled to our National Rural Water Association’s Annual Conference – WaterPro, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Every year the conference is held in a different part of the country. Representatives from rural water associations in every state attend this annual event which also includes their member meeting. We had a good contingent representing Texas, including staff, board members and member systems. We enjoyed numerous educational sessions, an extensive exhibit hall, and camaraderie. The event also raised $27,000 for the NRWA Political Action Committee which contributes to the campaigns of political leaders in Congress who support rural water initiatives and are in key positions to affect change.

NRWA is headquartered in Duncan, Oklahoma and they also have an office in Washington D.C. They represent rural water before Congress, USDA-RD and EPA. They apply for and administer federal grants that support our circuit rider, wastewater tech, and energy efficiency programs; as well as our EPA training & technical assistance and workforce development programs. They advocate for continued funding for the USDA-RD loan and grant program and for the SRF program that supports rural water and wastewater infrastructure projects.

NRWA also engages in federal rule proposals, such as new EPA standards. Through their advocacy on these issues, our industry has avoided more onerous regulations. An example of a successful initiative from NRWA for rural water resulted in the EPA allowing electronic distribution of CCR reports. There are many other things our National Rural Water Association does to support the work that TRWA and our members do every day.

TRWA was a founding member of NRWA and continues to be a leader amongst the states involved. The NRWA board consists of a representative from each state association. Our current representative on NRWA’s board is Kent Watson, the GM of Wickson Creek SUD, who is now the NRWA Immediate Past President. I serve on two NRWA board committees – the Legislative Committee and the Emergency Response Committee.

As a member of TRWA, you are also a part of this influential national network of rural water and wastewater systems who provide service across our country. Thank you for the work you do every day to keep the water flowing in rural Texas, especially during these challenging times. I look forward to seeing you at our fall conferences!

Best regards,

Lara Zent Executive Director & General Counsel TRWA