Trouble viewing in your email client? View web version.
|
Water Workforce Development Tribune
|
Expo 2026 South Lake Tahoe - Success Personified!
|
The 2026 Expo and Exhibitor Conference held April 27–30 in beautiful South Lake Tahoe, marked a milestone moment of success for our organization and the rural water community. With unprecedented attendance exceeding 600 participants, this year’s event brought together operators, managers, industry leaders, and solution providers from across the region for four days of education, networking, and collaboration. The energy throughout the conference reflected a shared commitment to strengthening water and wastewater systems and supporting the professionals who keep them running.
Attendees experienced a robust lineup of technical training sessions, hands-on learning opportunities, and valuable discussions focused on current challenges and emerging solutions in the industry. The exhibitor hall was bustling with activity, providing direct access to innovative products, services, and expertise that support system efficiency and reliability. From first-time attendees to long-time participants, the feedback was overwhelmingly positive, reinforcing the Expo’s reputation as a must-attend event.
A highlight of the conference was the celebration of our apprenticeship program graduates. These individuals represent the future of the industry, and their dedication, hard work, and achievement were proudly recognized. Their success is a testament to the strength of the program and the importance of investing in workforce development.
Adding to the excitement, the ATV raffle drew significant attention throughout the event. Congratulations to Ian Sanderson from the City of Fort Bragg, who took home the prize. Moments like these brought an extra level of enthusiasm and community spirit to an already memorable event.
Overall, the 2026 Expo was a complete success—driven by strong attendance, meaningful engagement, and a shared sense of purpose. We extend our sincere thanks to all attendees, exhibitors, sponsors, and staff who made this event possible.
Participants can access their certificate of completion after submitting the event survey HERE.
We look forward to building on this momentum and making future events even more impactful.
|
|
|
|
Upcoming Workforce Trainings
|
Water Treatment Certification Review
Project Funding
AWE Distribution O&M
MEMORIAL DAY CLOSED
Distribution Certification Review Grade 3
|
|
|
Level Up This May: Upcoming Workforce Trainings
|
Our May training lineup is here—packed with opportunities to sharpen your skills, prep for certification, and stay ahead in the field. Here are some of the classes you don't want to miss!
AWE Distribution O&M Training
May 18–22 | Sacramento
A full week of hands-on training covering distribution system operations and maintenance. Giving attendees the 36-hours required for D2 & D3.
Distribution Certification Review – Grade 3
May 27–28 | Palmdale
Take the next step with advanced certification prep designed for experienced operators.
Don’t miss out—these trainings are built to support you in the field and help you succeed.
|
|
Apprenticeship Program Webinar
|
CRWA is excited to host an upcoming webinar designed specifically for employers interested in learning more about our Apprenticeship Program and how it can support their workforce needs.
As workforce challenges continue across the water and wastewater industry, apprenticeship programs are proving to be a practical, sustainable solution. This webinar will provide a clear overview of how CRWA’s program works, what it offers employers, and how easy it is to get involved.
Participants will gain insight into:
• How the Apprenticeship Program is structured
• The benefits of training and retaining skilled operators
• Available support and resources for participating employers
• Steps to enroll and become a program partner
This session is ideal for utility managers, supervisors, and decision-makers who are looking to build a stronger, more resilient workforce while investing in the next generation of operators. Whether you’re exploring new hiring strategies or ready to invest in long-term staff development, this webinar is a great place to start.
By joining the webinar, employers will have the opportunity to ask questions, hear real-world applications, and explore how apprenticeship can be tailored to meet their organization’s needs.
Stay tuned for registration details and be sure to reserve your spot!
|
|
|
Contract Training Program
|
|
The California Rural Water Association’s Contract Training Program is designed to make learning more convenient, practical, and impactful for your system.
Rather than sending your staff off-site, CRWA delivers training straight to your facility, giving your team the opportunity to learn on the same equipment they use every day. It’s a hands-on approach that builds real skills while keeping your operations on track.
Every training is tailored to your system’s specific needs. From certification prep and regulatory updates to technical, hands-on topics, each session is built around your goals and day-to-day challenges. With flexible scheduling and options that range from brief workshops to multi-day sessions, it’s easy to create a training plan that fits.
Bring the training to you and keep your team moving forward. |
|
Water System Reporting Requirements
|
California Water Systems have several reporting requirements to stay in compliance with the State Water Resources Control Board. Here is a breakdown of the reporting requirements and when they are due:
- rTCR – Revised Total Coliform Rule – By the 10th day of each Month – Both Distribution and Raw Water Reporting for systems.
- SAFER Drought Reporting – Monthly Water Usage (Note: According to the SWRCB’s Website – “Water systems that are experiencing a severe water shortage, or systems that have been identified by the State Water Board or Local Primacy Agency staff to be at-risk of experiencing a severe water shortage may be required to submit drought-related data more frequently”).
- MRDL - Maximum Residual Disinfectant Level – For Chlorinated Systems – track CL Residual daily and report quarterly.
- SAFER Clearinghouse Annual Inventory Report – All systems – Monthly Water Usage and Meter reads.
- EAR- Annual – Due by April 1 each year
- CCR – Annual – Due by June 1 each year
|
|
|
Timber Cove
|
On April 1, 2026, California Rural Water Association (CRWA) was contacted by Melany Collett, General Manager of Timber Cove Water District (TCWD), regarding significant unaccounted-for water loss within the system and a request for technical assistance.
CRWA Circuit Rider Abel Silva coordinated with Melany following initial email correspondence, during which TCWD provided a Diamond Maps overview identifying three priority areas for leak detection. A site visit was scheduled for April 22, 2026, in coordination with System Operator Alfonzo Portugal. Upon arrival, Operator Portugal requested that efforts begin along Timber Cove Road, focusing on the 2-inch and 6-inch C900 high-pressure mains where water had been observed. The 2-inch line was inspected first, with no leaks detected. Due to limited access points for the FCS correlator on the 6-inch main, the FCS DX ground microphone was utilized instead. This led to the successful identification of a leak near 22081 Timber Cove Road, with an estimated loss of 3–4 gallons per minute. Additional surveys were conducted in the identified areas along Koftinow Drive and Pacific View Drive using both correlation and ground microphone methods; no leaks were detected in either location. Through the support of the CRWA Circuit Rider Program, Timber Cove Water District is estimated to have avoided approximately $6,250 in water loss. |
|
|
