TRWA Quality on Tap! Magazine - Special Issue - Convention Recap 2012

Quality on Tap! Special Convention Issue 2012

In This Issue: TRWA Honors Representative Tracy King with Friend of Rural Water Award Members make 43rd Annual Convention a Success!

TRWA Creates Charitable Foundation for Rural Water

TRWA Today

Quality On Tap!

TRWA Board of Directors Officers James Morrison President

Huntsville (At-Large)

Tommy Carswell Secretary

Lufkin (Dist. 14)

Janice Gibbs, CPA Finance Director Pam Cantrell Administrative Assistant Angela Harris Administrative Assistant

Scott Adams Immediate Past President Ft. Davis (Dist. 2)

District Directors

John Frantz

Chris Boyd

Michael Taylor

Pat Allen Brian Macmanus Leahmon Bryant Charles Beseda

Dwayne Jekel

Barry Miller

Roy Perkins

Bill Goheen

Kent Watson

Hartley (Dist. 1) Aubrey (Dist. 3) Brownwood (Dist. 4) Marion (Dist. 5) Harlingen (Dist. 6) Greenville (Dist. 7) Penelope (Dist. 8) Cameron (Dist. 9) Gonzales (Dist 10) Kaufman (Dist. 12) Mabank (Dist. 13) Bryan (Dist. 15)

At-Large Directors

Kent Smith Itasca

Established in 1969, the Texas Rural Water Association (TRWA) is a statewide nonprofit trade association with an active membership consisting of more than 750 municipal utility districts, special utility districts, nonprofit water supply corporations, small-town water departments, investor-owned utilities and individual members.

In addition, more than 200 water industry suppliers participate in TRWA activities as associate members.

TRWA members provide water and wastewater service to 2.5 million customers throughout Texas.

Fort Worth

skyline and river

Lara Zent General Counsel Pauline Word Legal Assistant Nickie Morgan, CMP Member Services Director Lance Harrell Information Technology Professional Development and Training Director Administrative Assistant Instructor Instructor Instructor

Technical Assistance Director Wastewater Trainer Wastewater Technician Circuit Rider Circuit Rider Circuit Rider

Larry Bell Raymond Curtis Alex Eaves Paul King James Smith William White

By Emily Barclay Texas Rural Water Association Representative King was recognized for support of rural water interests before the Texas Legislature.

Environmental Services Director FMT Specialist FMT Specialist Source Water Protection Specialist

Michael Vollmar

Melody Bennett

Len Klandrud

George Patterson

Dian Phinny

TRWA Honors Representative Tracy King with Friend of Rural Water Award

Emily Barclay Communications Director Celia Aguirre Dwyane Boren Refugio Rodriguez Deborah McMullan

Wanda Gaby Treasurer

Alba (Dist. 11)

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Tom Duck Executive Director

Clay Hodges Vice President

Greenville (At-Large)

Features:

TRWA Staff

Departments Letter from the Executive Director 4 The TRWA Legal Defense Fund Needs Your Support!

Advertiser Index 30 Plan Ahead 31

Special Convention Issue 2012

10 Members Make 43rd Annual Convention a Success!

By Emily Barclay, Texas Rural Water Association The 2012 TRWA Convention offered training and social activities for attendees!

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TRWA Creates Charitable Foundation for Rural Water

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TRWA Announces 2012 Scholarship Recipients

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Rural Water Emergency Assistance Cooperative Offers Assistance to Rural Utilities

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By Emily Barclay, Texas Rural Water Association The Texas Rural Water Research and Education Foundation will fund research and education for the water and wastewater utility industry.

By Emily Barclay, Texas Rural Water Association Read about this year’s stellar students and operators!

By Tom Duck, Texas Rural Water Association It’s hurricane season again! Make sure your RWEAC membership is current to ensure help is there when you need it!

Water University Offers National Certification for Utility Managers

By Emily Barclay, Texas Rural Water Association NRWA’s Water University offers a curriculum for utility managers to earn national certification. Learn how certification can advance your career.

TRWA’s Calendar of Events

TRWA is dedicated to helping directors, managers and operators provide efficient service and clean, safe drinking water to their customers. Through on-site technical assistance, education and information exchange, TRWA helps its members better meet their needs as well as the needs of their customers.

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Quality on Tap! - Special Convention Issue

Quality on Tap! - Special Convention Issue

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Letter from the Executive Director The TRWA Legal Defense Fund Needs Your Support!

The future of rural water service in Texas is in jeopardy. Certificates of Convenience & Necessity (CCNs), which once guaranteed exclusive service areas, are no longer sacrosanct. In 2011, the Texas Legislature again whittled away at rural water service areas by passing an automatic opt-out provision to landowners with 25 acres or more in 33 affected counties. The bill’s author, Sen. Robert Nichols, has voiced intentions to file legislation in 2013 that would expand this CCN opt-out provision statewide.

The Texas Rural Water Association is vigorously fighting this attack on rural water systems. Our Legal Defense Fund is helping to finance the first legal challenge of this new law in federal court, Aqua Water Supply Corp. v. Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, filed Oct. 7, 2011, in U.S. District Court in Austin. Lara Zent, TRWA’s general counsel, is serving as co-counsel in this case. TCEQ decertified a portion of Aqua’s CCN, where Austin Community College (ACC) plans to build a campus, even though Aqua WSC has the capacity and infrastructure in place to serve the area. Aqua WSC is challenging the TCEQ’s decision and the new state law, arguing that it is preempted by Title 7, United States Code, Section 1926(b). This federal law protects a water system from decertification and encroachment of their service area if the system is indebted to the U.S. Department of Agriculture – Rural Development.

This case has precedential value for all TRWA members as it seeks to preserve a rural water system’s ability to plan and invest in its service area in order to supply its community with safe, affordable drinking water.

TRWA has already spent a significant amount of money on this case from our Legal Defense Fund, and a long battle remains ahead.

TRWA greatly appreciates your donation to the Legal Defense Fund this year. As a contributor to this Fund, you recognize the importance of protecting the future of rural water service in Texas. This year, we are seeking additional assistance in order to continue to fund this current legal challenge. Only a united effort will make our voices heard on this important legal challenge.

Sincerely,

Tom Duck, Executive Director Texas Rural Water Association

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Quality on Tap! - Special Convention Issue

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facing Texas today,” said Representative Tracy King. “As we study this topic, I will continue my efforts to ensure that there is adequate water for agriculture, industry and the environment.”

Below, Representative Tracy King discusses water issues with his constituents after the Awards Ceremony during the 43rd Annual Convention in Fort Worth, Texas.

TRWA is immensely grateful to Representative King for his unwavering support of rural water issues before the Texas State Legislature.

TRWA Honors Representative Tracy King with Friend of Rural Water Award

By Emily Barclay, Texas Rural Water Association

T

he Texas Rural Water Association presented Texas State Representative Tracy King with the TRWA Friend of Rural Water Award on Thursday, March 15 at the association’s Annual Convention in Fort Worth, Texas. Representative King is the 11th recipient of the honor in the association’s 43 year history.

The Friend of Rural Water Award is the association’s highest honor, which is given to people who have gone out of their way to preserve the way of life in rural Texas and protect Texas’ water resources. As Vice 6

Quality on Tap! - Special Convention Issue

Chairman of the House Natural Resources Committee, Representative King played an integral part in the association’s efforts to protect the environment during the 82nd Session of the Texas Legislature.

“We chose Representative King for his steadfast support of our efforts to protect rural water supplies and ensure safe, clean drinking water for rural Texans,” said Tom Duck, the association’s executive director.

“Managing and protecting our water resources is one of the most critical issues Quality on Tap! - Special Convention Issue

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The Texas Rural Water Association Legal Handbook is Completely Revised for 2012!

The new edition of the TRWA Legal Handbook is completely revised to incorporate new laws and amendments passed by the 2011 Legislature and the latest rule updates. Both the water supply corporation and district versions also incorporate new legal provisions not previously included. The subject matter indexes are now even more comprehensive, making it easier to find information you are looking for.

The TRWA Legal Handbook is your most comprehensive, one-stop resource for statewide laws and regulations affecting water systems in Texas!

This edition of the Legal Handbook includes a new subscription plan option available for members.

Order yours online at trwa.org or fill out the order form on the facing page!

2012 TRWA Legal Handbook Order Form Handbook Contents Only – Volume 1 & 2  Water Supply Corporations  Water Districts

TRWA Logo Binders 

Volume 1 & 2

Handbook CD version

 With print Handbook purchase  CD only  Water Supply Corporations  Districts

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Price including tax* $181.20 $208.26

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Subscription Plan  Yes! Sign me up for the Legal Handbook Subscription Plan and bill me when the next update ships. (TRWA is planning regular updates to the Legal Handbook when major administrative rules and state laws change. As a subscriber, you will automatically receive these periodic updates with instructions for insertion as they become available.) **Includes shipping costs** Shipping Information: Name: _______________________________________

Company: ____________________________________

Address: ____________________________________ City: _________________ State: ____ Zip: ____________ Phone: ________________________________ Fax: ____________________________ Payment Information: Total Enclosed: $ _______________ Tax ID#:  Check #: ______  PO #: ________  M.O.  AmEx  MasterCard  Visa Credit Card Number:______________________________ Expiration: ______ Cardholder’s Name: _____________ Signature: ____________________ Credit Card Billing Address: _________________ City: __________ Zip: _____ Email: _______________________________________ Phone: _____________________________________ *Prices subject to change without notice. Please call for current listing.

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Quality on Tap! - Special Convention Issue

Quality on Tap! - Special Convention Issue

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Members make 43rd Annual Convention a Success!

By Emily Barclay, Texas Rural Water Association

M

ore than 450 TRWA members and vendors attended the association’s 43rd Annual Convention, which was held March 14-16 in Fort Worth, Texas. The event was one of the best-attended TRWA Conventions on record. The Convention included informative training sessions as well as networking opportunities and a chance to see some of the latest technologies available for the water and wastewater industry.

Preconference events started on Tuesday, Mach 13 with a Public Funds Investment Act training course for utility financial decision makers. On Wednesday, many attendees participated in the annual TRWA/AIA Golf Tournament. Others participated in the TRWA/ USDA Engineering Conference.

Wednesday evening, TRWA hosted a Welcome Reception for all Convention attendees and

Awards and Scholarship Committee chairwoman Wanda Gaby and Manager of The Year, Ronny Young.

Awards and Scholarship Committee chairwoman Wanda Gaby and Office Manager/Secretary of the Year, Rita Brooks.

Awards and Scholarship Committee chairwoman Wanda Gaby and Operator of the Year, Robert Rodriguez.

Attendees gather around the PAC booth just before one of the silent auctions closes.

Several special guests attended Tom Duck’s retirement party on Wednesday night, including former TRWA Membership Director, Janie Duderstadt.

exhibitors in the exhibit hall at the Fort Worth Omni Hotel. During this reception, TRWA Executive Director, Tom Duck, announced his plan to retire after 26 years as the association’s leader.

The Convention officially kicked off on Thursday morning with the Opening General Session and Annual Business Meeting. NRWA President Doug Anderton delivered the opening address to the membership, commending Texas as one of the top five most successful state associations. During the Annual Business Meeting committee chairpersons gave reports regarding the association’s activities for the previous year.

Larry Bell and Lara Zent delivered a presentation on easements on Thursday afternoon.

During the Awards Ceremony, TRWA Treasurer Wanda Gaby and chairwoman of the Awards and Scholarship Committee announced this year’s Excellence Awards and Scholarship recipients (see TRWA Announces Scholarship Recipients on page 16). Ronny Young with Kiowa Homeowners Water Supply Corporation won Manager of the Year, Rita Brooks with Two Way Special Utility District won Office Manager/Secretary of the Year and Robert Rodriguez with North Alamo won Operator of the Year. TRWA President, James Morrison then presented the Friend of Rural Continued on page 12

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Quality on Tap! - Special Convention Issue

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Continued from page 11

Water Award to Representative Tracy King for his support of the association’s efforts during the 2011 Session of the Texas Legislature.

After the Awards Ceremony, attendees had an opportunity to visit the exhibit hall where more than 125 companies and governmental entities displayed the latest innovations in the water and wastewater utility industry as well as the most recent information on utility regulations and funding. AIA Insurance Agency, Inc; Capps Insurance Agency; M&S Engineering; and TraCN-Trol, Inc. sponsored refreshment breaks for attendees. The Texas Rural Water Political Action Committee booth hosted several silent auctions and gave away more than $1,000 in cash prizes.

with vendors. Sessions resumed Friday late morning with topics that included resource management, water rates, and climate change.

“This Convention was a huge hit,” said TRWA Membership Director and Meeting Planner, Nickie Morgan. “The new format gives attendees the opportunity to get home on Friday afternoon and avoid having the added expense of an extra hotel night. The attendees really seemed to appreciate that.”

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TRWA would like to thank all of the Convention attendees and exhibitors for making this convention such an overwhelming success!

See more images from the Convention on page 24.

Consecutive training sessions started on Thursday afternoon with Willie Lane and Kim Ngo of EPA Region 6 presenting “EPA New Enforcement Policy & Regulatory Updates.”

Hubert Collier with Collier Engineering presented “Groundwater Conservation Districts: Filtering Fact from Fiction” while TRWA’s Larry Bell and Lara Zent discussed easements.

After a short break, sessions resumed Thursday afternoon with topics that included groundwater data resources, source water protection and 1926(b) protection.

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The TRWA Annual Banquet took place Thursday evening and featured dinner and a entertainment by humorist Lou Heckler.

Delegates convened for district caucuses on Friday morning. The membership reelected John Frantz to represent District 1, Mike Taylor for District 4, Brian Macmanus for District 6, Dwayne Jekel for District 9, Tommy Carswell for District 14, and Clay Hodges as At-Large Director.

Steven Montgomery with Fort Belknap WSC won a $100 cash prize from the TRWA PAC booth.

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After the caucuses attendees had another opportunity to visit the exhibit hall and network

TRWA President James Morrison addresses attendees at the Annual Banquet on Thursday evening.

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Quality on Tap! - Special Convention Issue

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TRWA Creates New Charitable Foundation for Rural Water

By Emily Barclay, Texas Rural Water Association

A

fter more than two years of planning, the Texas Rural Water Association is proud to announce the creation of the Texas Rural Water Research and Education Foundation (TRWREF). The foundation will focus on education, research, scholarships and other charitable activities leading to a broader understanding of water, wastewater, utility operations, water conservation and protection of the environment.

The foundation received official approval from the Internal Revenue Service in August, 2011. The foundation will focus on education, research, scholarships and other charitable activities leading to a broader public understanding of water, wastewater, utility operations, water conservation and protection of the environment. The TRWREF will use its resources to research, promote

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Quality on Tap! - Special Convention Issue

and fund leading-edge technology and science that stimulates new knowledge, information, programs, products and services to advance the water and wastewater utility industry.

In addition to funding research projects for partner organizations, the foundation will conduct and publish surveys and other research models that highlight best management

practices and industry trends related to the management and operation of water and wastewater utilities. These projects endeavor to increase the knowledge and effectiveness of utility professionals and improve their ability to provide safe, affordable drinking water to rural communities in Texas.

“The issues facing rural utilities are different,” said Tom Duck, TRWA executive director. “The managerial and operational practices that work best in the big cities don’t always apply to rural communities. This foundation will fill a gap in research funding to find ways to best serve rural Texas and to educate utility staff about the unique business climate in rural areas.”

As part of its educational mission, the TRWREF will develop and fund educational and public awareness programs in an effort to increase the professionalism of the water and wastewater industry workforce. Focusing on watershed protection, development of future water supplies, water rights, regional planning, reuse, water infrastructure security, disaster relief, emergency response and utility operations, the foundation seeks to foster increased understanding regarding the

need to conserve resources and protect the environment.

The foundation will also create a scholarship fund to encourage young people to pursue a career as a utility professional or enter a field of study that serves supports or promotes the utility industry. Unlike the current TRWA scholarship program, which offers scholarships exclusively to employees of member utilities and their families regardless of their career aspirations, the TRWREF scholarship program will encourage the development of new utility professionals with a focus on four-year and twoyear degree programs.

TRWA will administer the new foundation and has received federal approval to organize TRWREF as a supporting organization in order to achieve tax exempt status under Section 501(3)(c) of the Internal Revenue Code. The laws governing supporting organizations are similar to those that govern public charities, which make contributions to the foundation deductible for federal tax purposes.

The foundation will be governed by board of a directors consisting of five members initially appointed by the TRWA board of directors. The TRWA executive director will serve as the legal agent of the foundation and administer the day to day activities.

“This is an exciting opportunity for the rural water community,” said Duck. “With enough support, this foundation can really help shape the future of our industry in a positive and innovative way.”

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TRWA Announces 2012 Scholarship Recipients

By Emily Barclay, Texas Rural Water Association

S

ince 1999 TRWA has been awarding scholarships to help provide higher education opportunities to deserving college students and utility operators. These scholarships serve the TRWA mission to ensure safe drinking water for Texans by giving member water system operators the opportunity to improve their skills through TCEQ approved licensing classes and recognizing the academic achievements of students who wish to further their education at accredited colleges and universities.

This year the TRWA Awards and Scholarship Committee received dozens of applications from highly qualified students and operators and awarded eight student scholarships in the amount of $1,000 each and five operator scholarships in the amount of $250 each. This year’s recipients represent some of the best and brightest individuals in the rural water family.

Student Scholarship Recipients Carli Cartwright Cartwright represents Loop Water Supply Corporation in Loop, Texas and graduated from Loop High School in May of this year. Cartwright ranked second in her class and is a member of Future Business Leaders of America and the National Beta Club. Cartwright also participated in Basket ball, Cheer leading, One Act Play, Golf, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, and was a senior citizen volunteer.

She participated in a job shadowing project, shadowing Dr. C Edwin Wentz, a Lubbock Orthodontist.

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Cartwright plans to attend Abilene Christian University and major in biochemistry. She plans to eventually enroll at University of Texas Health Science Center Dentist School in San Antonio.

“I want to become an orthodontist and help children all over the world,” said Cartwright “ACU has an amazing study abroad program that would give me the opportunity to go into a foreign country and gain hands-on experience, while providing dental services to those less fortunate.”

Hannah Hand Hand represents Loop WSC in Loop, Texas and graduated from Loop High School in May of this year. Hand is a member of the Beta Club, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Future Business Leaders of America, Future Farmers of America, and the University Interscholastic League. Hand is an honor student and held first chair in the high school band. Additionally, she has worked for the Loop Independent School District in the maintenance department for the two summers preceding graduation and shown pigs in county livestock shows.

Hand plans to attend South Plains College and transfer to veterinary school.

“I am a dedicated student. I have always excelled at the task given me and in my school work,” said Hand.

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Victoria Hardin Hardin represents Brookesmith Special Utility District in Bangs, Texas and graduated from Bangs High School in May of this year.

Ranking second in her class, Hardin is the class Salutatorian, Senior Class President, National Honor Society President, Art Club president and yearbook editor. Hardin is also the school videographer and participated as a crew member in One Act Play.

Hardin plans to study psychology and become a psychiatrist.

“My goal is to help as many lost or damaged people as possible,” said Hardin. “I want to improve lives and help in any way I can and I won’t be able to do that without an education.”

Danielle Holt Holt represents Caddo Basin Special Utility District in Greenville, Texas and graduated from Lone Oak High School in May, 2007. Holt graduated from Texas State University in 2010 with a Bachelor’s degree in Marketing and currently attends graduate school at the University of North Texas in Denton, Texas. Holt works at Caddo Basin SUD as a file clerk. She plans to earn her Masters of Business Administration, majoring in Strategic Management.

“My education and work experience are very important to me because that is what will help me reach my goal of becoming a [utility] manager,” said Holt.

Thomas Hughes Hughes represents Swift Water Supply Corporation in Nacogdoches, Texas and graduated from Nacogdoches High School in June, 2011. Hughes participated in National Honor Society and Eagle Scouts and was president of the high school band.

Hughes attends Texas A & M University in College Station, Texas, majoring in Electrical Engineering. He is a member of the Corps of Cadets and the Fightin’ Texas Aggie Band.

“Despite the fact that the disciplines of electrical engineering are very broad, ranging from the small scale of computer science to the large scale of power systems, I have narrowed my goal to the field of power systems,” said Hughes. “I hope to someday possibly work on the management of the power grid on the national scale or even the design of alternative energy systems.”

Ross Kelley Kelley represents Johnson County Special Utility District in Cleburne, Texas and graduated from Cleburne High School in May, 2010. Kelley was his Senior Class President and participated in Eagle Scouts, cross country running and swimming.

Kelley attends Texas State University in San Marcos, Texas, majoring in Exercise and Sports Science with a plan to study physical therapy.

“Being in the health profession gives me a sense of self satisfaction and a boost in my life,” said Kelley. “Knowing that I am helping someone restore their life and esteem puts a pep in my step.”

Courtney Mica Mica represents the Flatonia Water System in Flatonia, Texas and graduated from Flatonia in June, 2012. Mica participated on the high school soft ball and volley ball teams, earning the soft ball offensive MVP award for the 2010 and 2011 seasons.

Mica plans to study business administration at Saint Mary’s University in San Antonio, Texas and hopes to play soft ball for the school.

“I hope to own my own business someday, like my parents,” said Mica. “They have been a great inspiration to me over the years in helping me decide what I would like to do after high school and college.”

Continued on page 18 Quality on Tap! - Special Convention Issue

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Continued from page 17

Heather Moore Moore represents Cash Special Utility District in Greenville, Texas and graduated from Ford High School in June, 2012. Moore is a member of the Business Professionals of America, Junior World Affairs Council, National Honor Society, Debate Team and Spanish Club and is the drum captain for the school band.

John Pipes Pipes is an operator at Ben Wheeler Water Supply. He plans to use his scholarship to attend a Water Utility Safety course and hopes to upgrade to an A level operator license.

Operator Scholarship Recipients Paul Hightower Hightower is the manager at Myrtle Springs Water Supply Corporation. He plans to use his scholarship to attend a Water Technology course.

Zamora is the operations manager at Mustang Special Utility District. Zamora plans to use his scholarship to take Water Technology course that

Turner is the general manager at Pattison Water Supply Corporation. Turner plans to use her scholarship to attend Water Distribution and Water Utility Management courses.

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Aldo Zamora of Mustang Special Utility District

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Bruce Walker of Mustang Special Utility District

Walker is an operator at Mustang Special Utility District. He plans to use his scholarship to attend a Water Technology course.

TRWA would like to congratulate all of this year’s scholarship recipients and express appreciation for the association’s members who voluntarily contribute to the TRWA Scholarship Fund. The Awards and Scholarship Committee will begin accepting applications for the 2012 scholarship program in November. Make sure to keep an eye out for your scholarship packet in the coming months!

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Rural Water Emergency Assistance Cooperative Offers Assistance to Rural Utilities

By Tom Duck Texas Rural Water Association

I

n the aftermath of Hurricane Rita, the TRWA Board of Directors established the Rural Water Emergency Assistance Cooperative (RWEAC), designed to provide assistance to small and rural water/wastewater utilities sustaining physical damage from natural or man made disasters or other emergency situations.

TRWA Executive Director Tom Duck said, “RWEAC was created in recognition of the fact that rural utilities are often the last to receive vital state and federal assistance in times and circumstances of an emergency as demonstrated during Hurricane Rita.”

RWEAC will focus on helping small and rural systems obtain emergency assistance in the form of personnel, equipment and other materials necessary to protect the health and welfare of the

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Quality on Tap! - Special Convention Issue

small and rural utilities’ customers. By collectively pooling these resources during a disaster, TRWA and RWEAC will be able to quickly respond to the needs of small systems and assist them in recovering from an emergency.

“This is truly a neighbor helping neighbor effort,” Duck said.

How does my utility participate?

Participation in RWEAC is voluntary and membership is free. To participate as a member of the RWEAC network, your water/wastewater utility will need to sign a mutual aid agreement with TRWA that will help identify the available resources you are willing to share with the network and the process of giving and receiving RWEAC assistance. Having the agreement in place prior to an emergency event will help expedite the response time for all participants. A copy of the RWEAC Mutual Aid Agreement and other enrollment documents are available at www.trwa.org/rweac.

Signing the agreement does not obligate your utility to respond.

How does my utility get assistance during an emergency?

Any water/wastewater utility in Texas can request emergency assistance from RWEAC by calling 1-866-586-6480, a toll free hot line that is staffed 24 hours a day, seven days a week. You do not have to be a member of the RWEAC network to receive assistance, but priority will be given to RWEAC members. Assistance may be in the form of heavy equipment (portable generators, backhoes, etc.), supplies (pipes, valves, hydrants, fittings, etc.), or trained personnel (operators, electricians, instrument panel technicians, etc.).

During an emergency, RWEAC will match the equipment, manpower and other resources needed with those available within the RWEAC network.

RWEAC will coordinate and manage all disaster relief efforts for the donor utility and those utilities needing assistance. This includes working with the appropriate local, state and federal agencies if necessary.

What types of resources are needed by RWEAC? The RWEAC primarily needs heavy equipment, fuel, supplies, food, bottled water and manpower.

For example, there was an enormous need for portable generators during Hurricane Rita. If the RWEAC network had been in place during Rita, we would have known the size and type generators needed and then been able to match those needs with member utilities located outside the storm area that were willing to loan portable generators. Had the RWEAC network been in place prior to Rita, we would have been able to respond more quickly instead of waiting on state and federal generators which in many incidences never arrived or arrived without cables or fuel.

If my utility loans equipment to RWEAC during an emergency, what happens if it is damaged or stolen?

Although TRWA encourages utilities providing assistance to keep their own insurance in place, TRWA will maintain insurance on all equipment that is made available to a utility needing the assistance and used during an emergency. The RWEAC agreement requires that the equipment being loaned is properly insured, serviced and maintained while in our care.

My utility is willing to donate equipment, fuel, food, bottled water and manpower to RWEAC during a natural disaster, but how much time and expense is involved? What if our crews are needed back home?

In the event of a natural disaster or other emergency, the RWEAC staff will activate a command center in Austin that will coordinate the movement of equipment, supplies, food, bottled water and manpower from the donor utility to the utility needing assistance. RWEAC will contact each member participant who has signed a mutual aid agreement and verify the specific resources that are being donated and for how long. As a donor utility, you will have the option to determine the degree of participation and level of expense you are willing to incur prior to your commitment to providing the assistance. If at any time you need to recall your equipment or crews, you may do so.

RWEAC will coordinate all the pick up and delivery details for you. During Hurricane Rita, many utilities were unable to provide crews or equipment, but instead donated cash funds so that TRWA could purchase bottled water, food and supplies for the crews providing disaster assistance. Other utilities

donated the use of their facilities as staging areas for the emergency workers. Any type of assistance, large or small, is appreciated.

Will my utility be reimbursed for the use of any equipment, fuel, supplies and/or personnel loaned to RWEAC during a disaster?

No, probably not. In some cases FEMA may provide reimbursement for equipment, fuel and personnel used in a disaster, but this will vary according to the severity of the disaster, the extent of the damage and other factors. RWEAC will work with both the damaged utility and the utility providing assistance in an effort to obtain reimbursement if it is available.

Why should my utility participate?

Because —— happens. You never know when a disaster will strike and you will need help from RWEAC. During Hurricane Rita, many small water utilities with limited personnel were overwhelmed by the damage they sustained. Most were without electrical power, telephones, fuel, food, water and supplies for weeks. TRWA and our rural water partners in Florida, Oklahoma and New Mexico came to the aid of more than 100 small water systems by providing them with generators, chlorine, bottled water and food donated by other water utilities. Our emergency crews worked on site in the disaster zone around the clock helping water systems remove debris, fix water leaks, collect bacteriological samples and coordinate resources with state and federal agencies. This is what RWEAC is all about.

Will RWEAC help in disasters other than hurricanes?

Yes, RWEAC will help all parts of the state impacted by a disaster. If your system needs emergency assistance in the event of a flood, tornado, ice storm, fire or any other man made or natural disaster, RWEAC will respond.

Who is RWEAC and how is it funded?

The Rural Water Emergency Assistance Cooperative is a program provided by the Texas Rural Water Association to help small and rural water/wastewater systems in Texas in the event of a natural disaster or public emergency. The program is funded by TRWA and from cash donations made by water utilities and individuals to the TRWA Disaster Relief Fund.

Continued on page 22 Quality on Tap! - Special Convention Issue

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Continued from page 21

Does RWEAC have a staff?

During an emergency, RWEAC will utilize trained TRWA staff and a team of first responders who will coordinate resources and help you get your water system up and running with a minimal amount of government red tape and bureaucratic run around.

Our staff will make a personal on-site visit to your water system, help assess the damage and assist you in locating the equipment, manpower and supplies you need to start pumping water again.

The RWEAC network will match utilities needing assistance with those offering assistance. First priority will be given to helping small rural water systems that are often the last to receive help under other assistance programs.

How is RWEAC different from TxWARN? TxWARN is an internet-based system. RWEAC is designed to be more hands-on with a “people helping people” approach to disaster relief. By utilizing a trained team of first responders, RWEAC will be able to more quickly help you perform damage assessments and get you the resources you need to get your water system back in business. During Hurricane Rita, TRWA was able to place manpower, equipment and supplies in the disaster area within a matter of hours. More than 3,500 man-hours were spent on the ground helping

small water/wastewater systems get power restored and water pumping. This personal, on-site technical assistance is what makes RWEAC unique.

What are the benefits of RWEAC? • No membership fee.

• Participation is voluntary.

• No obligation that a participating water/ wastewater system respond to a disaster.

• Establishes a network of manpower, equipment and supplies that are available to your utility in the event of a disaster or other emergency.

• On-site technical assistance. RWEAC will dispatch a team of first responders to your utility in the event of a disaster to help you coordinate and manage resources.

• Priority is given to small rural utilities that are often the last to receive assistance during a disaster.

How do I sign up?

Complete the online application, mutual aid agreement and resource survey form available at www.trwa.org/rweac or contact TRWA at (512) 472-8591 and request a hard copy. We will send you a welcome packet and set your utility up in the RWEAC network. Periodically, we will contact you to make sure the information and resources you listed are updated.

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TRWA Source Water Protection Sprecialist, Debbie McMullan delivers a presentation Thursday afternoon.

Mack Tiner and Rusty Allen of Fort Belknap WSC make their way to the exhibit hall on Wednesday afternoon.

Many attendees brought family to enjoy a fun vacation in Fort Worth.

TRWA General Counsel Lara Zent and Jackson WSC President Lelia Henry catch up during the Welcome Reception.

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TRWA board member Dwayne Jekel stands with former TRWA presidents Richard Gist and Pat Armstrong as Tom Duck announces his retirement.

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Quality on Tap! - Special Convention Issue

Tom and Kathy Duck (left) stand with Jarilyn Harris (center), NRWA President Doug Anderton and NRWA Marketing Director, Michael Harris during the Welcome Reception/

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Quality on Tap! - Special Convention Issue

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Water University Offers National Certification for Utility Managers

By Emily Barclay, Texas Rural Water Association

L

ast year, Water University and the National Rural Water Association launched the Utility Management Certification Program to create a national certification standard for water and wastewater utility managers. Currently a distance learning course, the certification exam and study guide were developed by industry professionals from several states.

systems have the capacity to provide for a growing population. The program introduces resource management and environmental stewardship as the keystones to effective utility management.

The program is designed to ensure that certified managers have the tools they need to effectively manage and develop capacity based on federal standards.

Unlike certification units offered by state associations, the Utility Management Certification program focuses on national, rather than state, standards. A manager who attains certification through the program will have demonstrated competency in the three core areas on which the EPA gauges a system’s ability to provide compliant service − financial, managerial, and technical sustainability. The certification will provide managers with a certification that will verify their proficiency even if they move out of state.

“The national certification will enhance the utility management profession, industry standing and value to the public,” according to Gary Williams, executive director of Florida Rural Water Association and one of authors of the program. Additionally, Water University anticipates that certification will lead to greater earning potential for qualified managers. “The overall goal is to provide recognition that ultimately makes certification holders more hirable, more promotable and more valued,” according to the university’s Web site.

Operators and other utility personnel interested in utility management will also benefit from the certification program. With topics ranging from rate setting and human resource management to permits and emergency preparedness, the Utility Management Certification program will offer managers, and students interested in management, the opportunity to enhance their knowledge, effectiveness and professionalism.

With the ever-increasing demand for water and wastewater service in the United States, utility managers must face the daunting task of managing limited resources to ensure their

In order to take the certification exam, individuals must complete an application and have enough utility experience, education and training to qualify. Those that are not yet qualified are encouraged to take courses offered by state rural water associations beginning in the fall.

www.trwa.org

So far, more than 400 utility managers have successfully completed the exam for certification, including Wanda Gaby and Clay Hodges from Texas. Wayne Nelson from Illinois Rural Water Association was the first certified manager. “The team that put the test together did a real good job,” said Nelson in a recent interview with NRWA. “The test really covered a lot of material. I already knew a lot in some areas, like emergency response, but I learned a lot from the budget section.”

The certification program is administered by state rural water associations as satellites of the university and in the first two months, more than 20 states have participated. Texas was one of the first states to recognize the value of the certification program and has developed a Web page at www.trwa.org/training/wateru.htm where interested students can learn more about the certification program.

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Quality on Tap! - Special Convention Issue

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Advertiser Index AIA Insurance Agency........................................... page 5 American Flow Control.................................................25 AquaSurance.................................................................26 Capps Insurance Agency..............................................27 Childress Engineers......................................................10 Chlor-Serv......................................................................14 Chlorinators Incorporated............................................23 Daniel & Brown, Inc.......................................................16 DeepSouth Coatings.....................................................22 DN Tanks........................................................................23 Dunham Engineering.................................................... 11 Global Treat....................................................................25 Hayes Engineering........................................................25 J.F. Fontaine & Assoc., Inc...........................................26 Leonard Water Services................................................23 M & S Engineering.........................................................23 Maguire Iron...................................................................25 Palestine Water Well Service........................................26 Pittsburg Tank & Tower Maintenance Co., Inc............ 11 Precision Calibrate Meter Services.............................19 Rural Pipe & Supply......................................................19 Russell Drilling Co., Inc................................................21 Smith Pump Company, Inc...........................................26 Tabor & Associates, Inc................................................14 Tank & Vessel Builders, LP...........................................23 TraC-N-Trol, Inc..............................................................27 USA BlueBook................................................ back cover Utility Service Co., Inc...................................................15 Velvin & Weeks..............................................................28 Weisinger Incorporated................................................15

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Quality on Tap! - Special Convention Issue

Plan Ahead CONFERENCES:

October 10-11, 2012

San Antonio Fall Management Conference, Omni Colonnade Hotel, San Antonio, TX

November 7-8, 2012

Dallas Fall Management Conference, Doubletree Dallas North, Dallas, TX

OPERATOR TRAINING COURSES: Water Credit Courses

Basic Water Works Operations: Kenedy, October 9-11  San Antonio, October 16-18 Groundwater Production: San Angelo, September 18-20  Midlothian, October 2-4  New Braunfels, October 16-18 Water Distribution: Harlingen, September 5-7  San Antonio, October 23-25 Surface Water Production 1: Mission, October 9-11 Surface Water Production 2: Mission, November 6-8 Customer Service Inspections and Cross-Connection Control (16 Credit Hours): Crystal Beach, September 11-12  Mission, September 18-19  Wills Point October 2-3  Fort Davis, October 30-31  Bastrop, November 13-14  Terrell, November 27-28 Water Laboratory: San Antonio, November 6-8 Water Technology: San Antonio, September 24--28

Water and Wastewater Credit Courses

Math Basics: San Antonio, October 2 Advanced Math: San Antonio, October 3-4 Pump & Motor Maintenance: San Antonio, September 11-13 Water Utility Safety: Atascosa, September 25-27  San Antonio, November 13-15

Wastewater Credit Courses

Basic Wastewater Operations: San Antonio, November 27-29 Wastewater Collection: Glen Rose, September 11-13 San Antonio, October 30 – November 1 Operation of Activated Sludge: San Antonio, September 18-20

Quality on Tap! - Special Convention Issue

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