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# Environmental Finance Center Network

Working together to solve funding challenges for environmental programs and promote a sustainable environment.

## Sitemaps

- [XML Sitemap](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website.

## Multimedia

- [Artificial Intelligence Applications for Wastewater Systems](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/artificial-intelligence-applications-for-wastewater-systems/) - Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a rapidly growing technology that is increasingly integrated into modern software. AI systems are trained on vast amounts of data using algorithms designed to mimic human reasoning. One of the most familiar examples is chatbots, which draw on their training data and online resources to provide answers, generate stories, and respond
- [Rate Analysis for Your Water or Wastewater Utility](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/rate-analysis-for-your-water-or-wastewater-utility/) - If you are running a small water or wastewater system, evaluating your rate structure on an annual basis is a best practice. By reviewing its financial goals, rate structure, and budget each year, a system’s leadership can better assess if a utility’s needs are being met or if changes must be made. Understanding Your Water
- [How I used AI to Conduct More People-Centered Performance Evaluations](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/how-i-used-ai-to-conduct-more-people-centered-performance-evaluations/) - As water and wastewater utility managers, supervisors, or leaders you want to retain the great people who are currently in their roles and attract wonderful new employees. One of the tools in your toolkit for employee retention is listening and responding to your water and wastewater utility staff. The built-in way to do this is
- [Artificial Intelligence in Small Water Systems: Opportunities and Challenges](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/artificial-intelligence-in-small-water-systems-opportunities-and-challenges/) - Small water systems play a crucial role, serving millions of people across rural and suburban communities in the U.S. These systems consistently face pressures from aging infrastructure, limited staffing, and rising regulatory demands. As digital technologies advance, Artificial Intelligence (AI) is emerging as a promising tool to help small systems operate more efficiently and sustainably,
- [How to Adjust Your Utility’s Water and Wastewater Rates](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/how-to-adjust-your-utilitys-water-and-wastewater-rates/) - Read the previous blog, Rate Analysis for Your Water or Wastewater Utility, to learn more about what components of your rate structure should be reviewed annually by your system. If you are running a small water or wastewater system, annually reviewing your rate structure and budget are integral components of administering an effective utility. Upon
- [Water Advisory Committees: One Group, Multiple Funding Agencies – New York State ](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/water-advisory-committees-one-group-multiple-funding-agencies-new-york-state/) - Funding for water and wastewater projects can be confusing to navigate, and it is generally provided by a variety of agencies in a state. Some states have made an effort to consolidate funding entities and partner agencies to provide a singular point of contact for assistance to communities in their region. In this blog series, you will learn about some of the
- [How Federal Tariffs Could Affect Water and Wastewater Infrastructure Projects](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/how-federal-tariffs-could-affect-water-and-wastewater-infrastructure-projects/) - Upgrading our drinking water and wastewater infrastructure, including the replacement of outdated lead service lines, is essential to protect public health, support local economies, and sustain environmental quality. Yet, for many small and rural communities across the country, aging systems combined with challenges like limited funding and workforce shortages make it difficult to move these
- [Why Wastewater Permit Parameters Matter for Every Community](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/why-wastewater-permit-parameters-matter-for-every-community/) - Clean water is one of our most essential shared resources. Each time a household flushes a toilet, takes a shower, or runs a load of laundry, the water leaving that home becomes wastewater, carrying contaminants that must be removed before it can safely return to the environment. For communities across the United States, this responsibility
- [Past Their Prime: The Urgent Need to Upgrade Water Treatment Plants](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/past-their-prime-the-urgent-need-to-upgrade-water-treatment-plants/) - Aging Water Infrastructure: The Challenge Facing Rural Systems in 2025 Rural water systems across the nation are facing a familiar and growing challenge: aging infrastructure. Many water treatment plants are now antiquated and operating far beyond their intended lifespan. In Mississippi, most rural water utilities were established in the 1970s through a statewide initiative to
- [Why Capital Improvement Plans Matter for Wastewater Utilities](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/why-capital-improvement-plans-matter-for-wastewater-utilities/) - One of the biggest challenges many wastewater utilities—especially small systems—face is striking the right balance between responding to urgent, unexpected issues and planning for long-term needs. Without a clear strategy, resources often get consumed by emergencies, leaving little room for proactive improvements. A Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) is a powerful tool to break that cycle.
- [Solar for Water and Wastewater Systems: Using PV Watts to Evaluate Solar Potential For Your Facility](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/solar-for-water-and-wastewater-systems-using-pv-watts-to-evaluate-solar-potential-for-your-facility/) - In this tutorial, Danish Kumar of the University of Maryland's Environmental Finance Center walks you through the National Renewable Energy Laboratory's (NREL) PVWatts Calculator to estimate the potential solar energy production at your water or wastewater facility. This free tool is perfect for early scoping and assessing the feasibility of solar at your site. To
- [Shared Solutions: Strengthening Water Infrastructure Through Local Collaboration](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/shared-solutions-strengthening-water-infrastructure-through-local-collaboration/) - Small and rural communities often face steep financial and regulatory hurdles when trying to maintain or improve their water and wastewater systems. In upstate New York’s Mohawk Valley, the towns of Canajoharie, Fort Plain, Nelliston, and Palatine Bridge are showing how local collaboration can turn those challenges into opportunities. This video tells the story of
- [Estrategias de comunicación y participación para la Gestión Ambiental Comunitaria (en español)](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/estrategias-de-comunicacion-y-participacion-para-la-gestion-ambiental-comunitaria-en-espanol/) - To read this blog in English, click here / Para leer ese blog en ingles, haga clic aquí Más del 50% de los 3.2 millones de habitantes de Puerto Rico dependen de sistemas sépticos para la gestión de aguas residuales. Los sistemas sépticos u otras soluciones in situ, que en muchos casos carecen de mantenimiento
- [Communication and Participation Strategies for Community Environmental Management](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/communication-and-participation-strategies-for-community-environmental-management/) - To read this blog in Spanish, click here / Para leer ese blog en español, haga clic aquí More than 50% of Puerto Rico’s 3.2 million inhabitants depend on septic systems for wastewater management. Septic systems or other onsite solutions, which in many cases are improperly maintained, unsealed, and often discharge raw sewage directly into
- [A Guide for Water Operators Preparing for PFAs Sampling and Regulations](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/a-guide-for-water-operators-preparing-for-pfas-sampling-and-regulations/) - Introduction: New EPA Regulations Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) are a class of durable, synthetic chemicals linked to adverse health outcomes. Their persistence in the environment and human bodies makes them a top regulatory concern. Because of these concerns, EPA has introduced regulations under the National Primary Drinking Water Regulation, effective April 2024, setting maximum
- [Managing Capital Assets of Small Water Systems](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/managing-capital-assets-of-small-water-systems/) - [et_pb_section admin_label=”section”] [et_pb_row admin_label=”row”] [et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text”] Managing capital assets is vital for small water districts. All the programs and interactions involved in providing services for their customers depend on public assets. The EPA has estimated that the total 20-year infrastructure need for approximately 40,000 small community water systems is just over $100 billion between
- [Preparing Your Utility for a Financial Audit: A Practical Guide](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/preparing-your-utility-for-a-financial-audit-a-practical-guide/) - [et_pb_section][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text] Preparing for a financial audit is an important part of every wastewater (and water) utility’s operation. Not only is it good financial practice to run your business with the prospect of an audit on your mind, but some level of regular financial audit is typically required by states. Additionally, access to public funding
- [3 Ways for Small Water Systems to Secure Big Water Investments](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/3-ways-for-small-water-systems-to-secure-big-water-investments-2/) - Driving through the winding roads of the Catskills, it’s hard to believe that New York City is only a few hours away. The picturesque views of forest and farmland give way only to the occasional village, where locals greet each other by name and many have lived for generations. These small towns sprung up around
- [PRESS RELEASE: Environmental Finance Center Network Secures New EPA Awards to Strengthen Rural Water and Wastewater Systems](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/press-release-environmental-finance-center-network-secures-new-epa-awards-to-strengthen-rural-water-and-wastewater-systems/) - The EFCN, led by the Southwest Environmental Finance Center (SWEFC) at the University of New Mexico, is proud to announce two new cooperative agreements awarded by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). These awards, totaling $17.74 million, will usher in a new wave of support for small, rural, and tribal communities working to improve their drinking water and wastewater systems across all 50 U.S. states and territories.
- [An Intro to PFAS with Dr. Clare Pace from Berkeley's Water Equity Science Shop (WESS)](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/an-intro-to-pfas-with-dr-clare-pace-from-berkeleys-water-equity-science-shop-wess/) - In this episode, we talk with Dr. Clare Pace, PhD, MPH, a postdoctoral researcher for the University of California, Berkeley Water Equity Science Shop (WESS). Dr. Pace shares insights about PFAS for small and rural water systems. Starting with the basics, we discuss what PFAS are, where they come from, known and unknown health risks,
- [Water Under Pressure: The Future of Our Infrastructure](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/water-under-pressure-the-future-of-our-infrastructure/) - Aging pipes, outdated meter reading systems, and strained budgets are putting more pressure than ever on our nation’s water utilities. In this episode, host Anthony Craven sits down with Eric Williams, Senior Project Manager with the Mississippi Water Resources Research Institute at Mississippi State University, and Dr. Jason Barrett, MWRRI Director, to unpack the biggest
- [How Does a Toilet Work?](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/how-does-a-toilet-work/) - Have you ever wondered what happens when you flush a toilet? How does it work exactly? Let's take a look!
- [How Solar Panels Save Cities Thousands at Wastewater Plants](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/how-solar-panels-save-cities-thousands-at-wastewater-plants/) - Wastewater treatment plants consume a lot of energy. Solar power can be utilized to cut costs and reduce emissions.
- [Septic Tanks: DON'T MAKE THESE MISTAKES](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/septic-tanks-dont-make-these-mistakes/) - Not taking care of your septic system can be a costly mistake. Here's what you should do to keep your system healthy and working. Check out the resources below for more information on septic system care.
- [How Does a Grease Trap Work?](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/how-does-a-grease-trap-work/) - Fat, oils, and grease, also known as FOG, if left unchecked can lead to blockages in sewers and cause serious issues to wastewater infrastructure and the environment. That’s where grease traps come in!
- [The Benefits of Green Infrastructure](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/the-benefits-of-green-infrastructure/) - Green infrastructure is a variety of natural solutions to tackle urban environmental challenges. But what does that look like?
- [Don't Flush "Flushable" Wipes!!](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/dont-flush-flushable-wipes/) - Wet wipes, baby wipes, why is it a bad idea to flush these so called "flushable" wipes?
- [Prepping Your Septic System for the Future](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/prepping-your-septic-system-for-the-future/) - Changing weather patterns and climate are putting new pressure on septic systems. From rising groundwater to more frequent flooding, many communities are already seeing the impacts. In this episode, Dr. Andrew Lazur and Dr. Allison Reilly explore how climate change is affecting septic system performance, the public health risks that come with system failures, and
- [Risk Management for Water Systems: A Case Study of Goleta Water District in Santa Barbara County, California](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/risk-management-for-water-systems-a-case-study-of-goleta-water-district-in-santa-barbara-county-california/) - This podcast features Goleta Water District in Santa Barbara County, California. The district operates to provide water to over 87,000 people living in the greater Goleta Valley with an infrastructure of more than 270 miles of pipeline. GFOA worked with the Goleta Water District on a risk-based reserve project to assist the District re-evaluate it
- [Importance of Regulatory Compliance for Water and Wastewater Systems Seeking Infrastructure Funding ](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/importance-of-regulatory-compliance-for-water-and-wastewater-systems-seeking-infrastructure-funding/) - For water and wastewater systems, securing funding for upgrades is critical to maintaining safe, reliable infrastructure. However, before applying for loans, grants or other funding, systems must ensure all regulatory compliance issues are in order, unless returning to compliance is only contingent on the specific infrastructure project. Here's why regulatory compliance is essential for water
- [Water You Doing? What Not to Flush Down the Toilet ](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/water-you-doing-what-not-to-flush-down-the-toilet/) - Our actions with and around our wastewater treatment systems are very important. Common household items can contribute disproportionately to clogged drains and damaged wastewater infrastructure, causing harm to both wastewater systems and the environment. Homeowners, keep the following items out of your plumbing systems. What Not to Flush or Pour Fat, oil, and grease (FOG)
- [Green Infrastructure Resources for the Southwest US](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/green-infrastructure-resources-for-the-southwest-us/) - Green Infrastructure in one of the driest regions in North America? That’s right, in the Southwestern region of the United States – roughly Arizona and New Mexico; and parts of Nevada, Colorado, Utah, and Texas) – green infrastructure is crucial. Not only is water precious and scarce in this region (and becoming scarcer every year),
- [Pressure Test Your Interview Skills for a Career in Water](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/pressure-test-your-interview-skills-for-a-career-in-water/) - Introduction Water utility operators are quiet guardians of public health that ensure our communities have safe, reliable drinking water and wastewater service, often without the public even noticing their vital work. Water utilities offer stable, rewarding careers with competitive pay. Over 57% of water and wastewater operators are 45 years or older (Brookings, 2021), and
- [How Does a Septic Tank Handle Liquids AND Solids](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/how-does-a-septic-tank-handle-liquids-and-solids/) - For homes not connected to a public wastewater system, a septic tank may be a good option for treating wastewater. But how does a septic tank handle both solid and liquid waste?
- [7 Tips for Keeping Your Lagoon Clean](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/7-tips-for-keeping-your-lagoon-clean/) - [et_pb_section admin_label=”section”] [et_pb_row admin_label=”row”] [et_pb_column type=”4_4″][/et_pb_column] [/et_pb_row] [/et_pb_section]
- [The Wildfire-Source Water Nexus](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/the-wildfire-source-water-nexus/) - As drought stresses forests across the U.S. West and South, the number of acres burned by wildfires is increasing every year. Wildfires pose a significant threat to drinking water systems: Approximately 180 million people in over 68,000 communities rely on forested lands for their drinking water supply. When fires burn vegetation along rivers and streams,
- [Building True Partnerships: How San Diego’s Chollas Creek Community is Reshaping Water Infrastructure ](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/building-true-partnerships-how-san-diegos-chollas-creek-community-is-reshaping-water-infrastructure/) - View the original recording of the webinar, Empowering Community Voices for Blue Green Infrastructure in the Chollas Creek Watershed, recorded May 22, 2025, on the Environmental Finance Center Network’s YouTube channel. When the thousand-year storm hit San Diego’s Chollas Creek watershed on January 22, 2024, it didn’t affect all neighborhoods equally. The communities that bore
- [Valve Exercising Best Practices for Small Water Systems ](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/valve-exercising-best-practices-for-small-water-systems/) - Valves are critical control points in any water distribution system. Regular valve exercising keeps these critical components in working condition and ensures you can isolate areas quickly during leaks, line breaks, or emergencies. For small systems with limited resources, developing and maintaining a basic valve exercising program will extend valve life, improve emergency response, and
- [Cybersecurity for Small Water Systems: Why It Matters and How to Get Started](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/cybersecurity-for-small-water-systems-why-it-matters-and-how-to-get-started/) - Cyber threats have been a critical risk for all organizations, including public entities. For small water systems, the threat has grown significantly over the past decade. While large utilities often have dedicated IT and cybersecurity teams, small water systems are especially vulnerable. Constraints related to funding, obsolete infrastructure, and staffing can render these critical services
- [Building the Ark: How One Milwaukee Neighborhood Transformed Stormwater Challenges into Community Action](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/building-the-ark-how-one-milwaukee-neighborhood-transformed-stormwater-challenges-into-community-action/) - View the original recording of the webinar, recorded July 22, 2025, on the Environmental Finance Center Network’s YouTube channel. When basement flooding became a recurring nightmare for residents in Milwaukee's Grasslyn Manor neighborhood, they could have simply accepted it as an inevitable part of life. Instead, they did something remarkable: they organized, engaged with technical
- [Pipes, Pressure, and Progress: MSU’s Approach to Water Infrastructure Management](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/pipes-pressure-and-progress-msus-approach-to-water-infrastructure-management/) - In recent years, infrastructure has become a popular topic across the engineering and public utility sectors, and for good reason. As our water distribution systems continue to age, a growing list of challenges is surfacing that demands both attention and innovation. Issues such as deteriorating pipe networks, outdated or inaccurate system mapping, unreliable valves and
- [Investing in People, Not Just Pipes: The Case for Leadership Training in the Water Sector](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/investing-in-people-not-just-pipes-the-case-for-leadership-training-in-the-water-sector/) - The water sector keeps communities safe, economies running, and ecosystems healthy, but it’s been facing a quiet crisis (and I’m not referring to the aging pipes). Across the country, water utilities are under strain. One in three water utility operators are approaching retirement, small systems are stretched thin, and burnout is growing among the workers
- [Clean Watersheds Needs Survey and Small System Needs](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/clean-watersheds-needs-survey-and-small-system-needs/) - Clean water is essential to public health but many communities across the United States face significant challenges in maintaining their wastewater infrastructure. These challenges include aging systems, limited staff, and insufficient resources to plan or finance upgrades. To assess infrastructure needs and guide investment decisions, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) conducts the Clean Watersheds
- [3 Fee Strategies to Support Green Infrastructure Maintenance](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/3-fee-strategies-to-support-green-infrastructure-maintenance/) - Imagine you’re an average citizen in the city or town you live in: You are walking down the road and see a streetside stormwater harvesting swale, also known as a chicane, that the city installed a couple years ago. There are some native plants doing okay in there, but it’s mostly choked out with invasive
- [Risk-based reserve framework for small water systems – A case study of Goleta Water District](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/risk-based-reserve-framework-for-small-water-systems-a-case-study-of-goleta-water-district/) - Risk management is essential for small water systems to ensure the continued delivery of safe and reliable water to their communities. These systems often operate with limited resources, making them especially vulnerable to unexpected events such as equipment failures, natural disasters, or regulatory changes. By proactively identifying and addressing potential risks, small water systems can
- [Managing Decentralized Wastewater Systems in Mobile Home Parks](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/managing-decentralized-systems-in-mobile-home-parks/) - In this podcast, host Danish Kumar speaks with Jennifer Egan, Program Manager at the UMD EFC about the pressing but often overlooked issue of wastewater management in mobile home parks and rural communities. They explore the challenges posed by aging septic systems, deferred maintenance, and complex ownership structures, particularly in low-income areas. Jennifer shares real-world
- [Water Advisory Committees: One Group, Multiple Funding Agencies – Alaska](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/water-advisory-committees-one-group-multiple-funding-agencies-alaska/) - Funding for water and wastewater projects can be confusing to navigate, and it is generally provided by a variety of agencies in a state. Some states have made an effort to consolidate funding entities and partner agencies to provide a singular point of contact for assistance to communities in their region. In this blog series,
- [Shovel-Worthy Water and Wastewater Infrastructure: Meeting Community Needs with Smart Projects](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/shovel-worthy-water-and-wastewater-infrastructure-meeting-community-needs-with-smart-projects/) - Water and wastewater infrastructure are critical in protecting public health. Therefore, when developing new infrastructure projects, it is essential to design smart projects. Smart or shovel-worth projects are those tailored to address community short-term needs and long-term challenges. Shovel -worthy water and wastewater infrastructure projects: Improve community wellbeing by prioritizing health and safety.Improve community quality
- [Water Advisory Committees: One Group, Multiple Funding Agencies – Colorado](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/water-advisory-committees-one-group-multiple-funding-agencies-colorado-2/) - Funding for water and wastewater projects can be confusing to navigate, and it is generally provided by a variety of agencies in a state. Some states have made an effort to consolidate funding entities and partner agencies to provide a singular point of contact for assistance to communities in their region. In this blog series,
- [Water Advisory Committees: One Group, Multiple Funding Agencies – Arkansas](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/water-advisory-committees-one-group-multiple-funding-agencies-arkansas/) - Funding for water and wastewater projects can be confusing to navigate and it is generally provided by a variety of agencies in a state. Some states have made an effort to consolidate funding entities and partner agencies to provide a single point of contact for assistance to communities in their region. In this blog series,
- [Water Advisory Committees: One Group, Multiple Funding Agencies – Texas](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/water-advisory-committees-one-group-multiple-funding-agencies-texas/) - Funding for water and wastewater projects can be confusing to navigate and it is generally provided by a variety of agencies in a state. Some states have made an effort to consolidate funding entities and partner agencies to provide a singular point of contact for assistance to communities in their region. In this blog series,
- [Strategies to Keep Moving on Collaborative Infrastructure Planning and Lessons Learned from the Mohawk Valley ](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/strategies-to-keep-moving-on-collaborative-infrastructure-planning-and-lessons-learned-from-the-mohawk-valley/) - Visitors to the Eisenadler Brauhaus in Montgomery County, NY would have seen an unusual sight on a spring afternoon in 2023: four local mayors having a drink while talking about sewage. The brewery was a strategic meeting location, on neutral territory situated centrally among the four villages of Canajoharie, Fort Plain, Nelliston, and Palatine Bridge.
- [Create a Water Main Break/Repair Guidance Manual for your Water System](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/create-a-water-main-break-repair-guidance-manual-for-your-water-system/) - What would happen if you were out of town or incapacitated and your community uncovers a water main break? Is there someone else that can handle the emergency repair in a timely, sanitary and safe manner? In this blog we will cover how as an operator, you can create a document to be used and
- [From Permits to Planning: What New Mexico Utilities Should Know About the 2025 Water Legislation](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/from-permits-to-planning-what-new-mexico-utilities-should-know-about-the-2025-water-legislation/) - In 2025, New Mexico passed three major water-related bills, Senate Bill 21/22, House Bill 137, and Senate Bill 37, that are set to reshape the regulatory and funding landscape for water, wastewater, and stormwater utilities across the state. These laws represent a shift toward local control and resource resilience. Whether you’re operating, managing, or assisting
- [Energy Management Strategies for Small Wastewater Treatment Plants](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/energy-management-strategies-for-small-wastewater-treatment-plants/) - In a small town nestled in the rolling hills of Iowa, the local wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) serves as critical infrastructure in the small community of 4,000 people, ensuring clean water and supporting public health. For the last few years, its operators have been struggling with a growing problem of increasing energy costs and peak
- [Water Advisory Committees: One Group, Multiple Funding Agencies – Oklahoma](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/water-advisory-committees-one-group-multiple-funding-agencies-oklahoma/) - Funding for water and wastewater projects can be confusing to navigate, and it is generally provided by a variety of agencies in a state. Some states have made an effort to consolidate funding entities and partner agencies to provide a singular point of contact for assistance to communities in their region. In this blog series,
- [Building Resilience in Water Systems: The Role of Resilience in Water Finance](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/building-resilience-in-water-systems-the-role-of-resilience-in-water-finance/) - Introduction Water, wastewater and stormwater utilities, collectively referred to as water systems throughout this blog, are vital to public health, functioning economies, and clean environments. When disaster strikes, whether natural or human-made, disruptions in drinking water and wastewater systems can have immediate rippling effects that can prevent or slow recovery efforts and put people at
- [I’m a Small Water System, Why Do I Need a Strategic Plan?](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/im-a-small-water-system-why-do-i-need-a-strategic-plan/) - A strategic plan can help any operation get on track to achieve its goals. As a leader of a water system, you will sleep better at night knowing you and your team have a roadmap. Do you need to expand your plant to accommodate a growing population? Are you struggling to fund a major infrastructure
- [NPDES Permit Basics for Wastewater Operators](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/npdes-permit-basics-for-wastewater-operators/) - [et_pb_section][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text] The National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Permit is issued by either EPA or an authorized state to all facilities that discharge any pollutant into Waters of the United States. It is important for all operators to know the basics of what is on your system’s permit and to understand how meeting the
- [Is It Safe to Simply Install Your Septic Tank and Forget It?](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/is-it-safe-to-simply-install-your-septic-tank-and-forget-it/) - Home ownership is a monumental step and typically the largest expense for an American family. Owning a home forms a sense of community, and new homes being built are an economic boost that impacts many businesses locally, across the state, and in the region. Even though there are many joys and comforts of owning a
- [A Beginner’s Guide to Total Coliform Sampling ](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/a-beginners-guide-to-total-coliform-sampling/) - The Revised Total Coliform Rule (RTCR) requires all public water systems to have a Distribution System Sampling Plan (DSSP). A DSSP is your roadmap for routine water quality monitoring throughout the system. It outlines where and when you'll take samples and what you're sampling for — such as Total Coliform Bacteria, which are indicators of
- [Financing Options for Public Infrastructure: The Case for Small Water Systems](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/financing-options-for-public-infrastructure-the-case-for-small-water-systems-2/) - I. The Infrastructure Needs and Challenges for Small Water Systems Small water systems in the U.S. face significant infrastructure challenges, including aging pipelines, outdated treatment facilities, and increasing regulatory requirements. According to the 2021 Infrastructure Report Card by the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE), the U.S. infrastructure received a C- grade, with an estimated
- [Resiliency Planning at the Neighborhood Level: Lessons Learned from the South Ward Environmental Alliance](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/resiliency-planning-at-the-neighborhood-level-lessons-learned-from-the-south-ward-environmental-alliance/) - Across the United States, communities are facing the growing impacts of extreme weather and climate variations. From extreme heat waves to increasing flood frequency and severity, these impacts threaten public health, infrastructure, and overall quality of life. While many cities have done climate action planning at the municipal level, these strategies don’t always account for
- [Public Problem, Private Property: How Outreach and Incentives Drive Smarter Septic System Management ](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/public-problem-private-property-how-outreach-and-incentives-drive-smarter-septic-system-management/) - More than one in five households in the U.S. depend on individual septic systems or small community cluster systems to treat their wastewater, with some states such as Vermont reporting that up to 55% of households use septic systems. Here in New York State, around 22% of New Yorkers rely on septic systems to manage
- [Capital Improvement Planning: Where do I begin?](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/capital-improvement-planning-where-do-i-begin/) - Deciding where, how, and when to allocate resources is a struggle that many systems face every day. However, there are a variety of strategies that can be used to tackle this dilemma. Capital improvement planning is a valuable tool that we recommend using to plan and manage investments in infrastructure projects over a multi-year period.
- [Saltwater Intrusion: Should Your Utility Be Concerned?](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/saltwater-intrusion-should-your-utility-be-concerned/) - [et_pb_section admin_label=”section”] [et_pb_row admin_label=”row”] [et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text”]Image by Olle August via Pixabay. Saltwater intrusion in the U.S.: a growing threat to water and wastewater utilities Nobody likes getting a huge gulp of seawater. Not only is it not fun to drink, but it also has negative impacts on our health, infrastructure, and environment. Saltwater intrusion
- [Jar Testing for Wastewater Process Optimization](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/jar-testing-for-wastewater-process-optimization/) - Overview Jar testing, also known as bench testing, is a practical method to evaluate a plant’s chemical treatment process by using site-specific wastewater and observing how it reacts with different chemicals. Chemical use is essential in wastewater treatment and plays a critical role in processes such as phosphorus removal and polymer addition for solids thickening
- [How to Map a Point Using a Mobile GPS Mapping Unit](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/how-to-map-a-point-using-a-mobile-gps-mapping-unit/) - Whether you are a seasoned professional or a newcomer to GIS technology, today's technology allows anyone to perform data collection in the field! Join us for this tutorial to learn step-by-step how to create GPS coordinates utilizing two simple to use GPS mapping apps. Join us on this informative journey and become proficient in collecting
- [Webinar Recap: The State of Public Sector Green Stormwater Infrastructure](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/webinar-recap-the-state-of-public-sector-green-stormwater-infrastructure/) - This webinar was presented by the Environmental Finance Center Network (EFCN) on March 6, 2025. To view the recording, click here; or scroll down. Green stormwater infrastructure (GSI) is gaining momentum across the United States and Canada as communities seek sustainable, resilient solutions for managing stormwater. However, despite growing demand, implementation challenges persist, particularly in
- [Exploring Real-World Geospatial Solutions: Student Employee Reflections](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/exploring-real-world-geospatial-solutions-student-employee-reflections/) - Valeria Cortes-Mora As a Geography student, my work at the Southwest Environmental Finance Center (SWEFC) has allowed me to apply classroom knowledge to impactful projects. From satellite imagery analysis to designing GIS dashboards, my work has strengthened my technical skills and understanding of geospatial solutions. Here is a look into some of the projects I
- [Grease Trap Inspection Demonstration](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/grease-trap-inspection-demonstration/) - Grease traps are a valuable tool that utilities and food service establishments can deploy to minimize fats, oils, and grease (FOG) in their collection systems. These devices come in a variety of shapes and sizes, but share many of the same principles to remove FOG from water after it is used to prepare food and
- [Spotlight on Computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS): Part 2 of 3](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/spotlight-on-computerized-maintenance-management-systems-cmms-part-2-of-3/) - This blog post is the second part of our three part series on CMMS Software for small water and wastewater utilities. This post details how to research CMMS companies and who to involve in that process. How to pick the right Computerized maintenance management system (CMMS) software You’ve decided your utility needs CMMS software, but how do you
- [Spotlight on Computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS): Part 3 of 3](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/spotlight-on-computerized-maintenance-management-systems-cmms-part-3-of-3/) - This blog post is the last part of our three part series on CMMS Software. This blog post describes how to set up a demo with CMMS questions and recommends questions to ask during the demo. It also discusses CMMS pricing and technical support. . Making contact with CMMS companies Once you have a short
- [Solutions Discussed in EPA’s Water Affordability Needs Assessment](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/solutions-discussed-in-epas-water-affordability-needs-assessment/) - Affordability: A multifaceted issue Everybody needs water to ensure their health and well-being. The majority of people in this country receive water from a central system of some type and size and these systems require funding to provide the service. Increasingly, the cost of installing, maintaining, and operating the necessary infrastructure has risen dramatically. These
- [Water Affordability: EFAB’s Examination of A Wide Range of Options For Customer Level Affordability](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/water-affordability-efabs-examination-of-a-wide-range-of-options-for-customer-level-affordability/) - In January 2025, the Environmental Advisory Board (EFAB) published “Advancing Water Affordability Nationwide: A Framework for Action,” a detailed report on the current state of water affordability in the U.S. The full report is 103 pages, and can be accessed here. The Environmental Financial Advisory Board (EFAB) has been advising EPA for over 30 years
- [Developing a Flushing Program: Best Practices and Common Mistakes to Avoid for Small Water Systems ](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/developing-a-flushing-program/) - Regular flushing can be an important technique for maintaining water quality by removing stagnant water, biofilm, sediments, and contaminants that can accumulate in pipes. For small water systems, flushing can be part of regular maintenance or can be performed in response to low disinfectant residual, positive coliform results, evidence of nitrification, or customer water quality
- [Water Advisory Committees: One Group, Multiple Funding Agencies – California](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/california-financing-coordinating-committee-cfcc/) - Funding for water and wastewater projects can be confusing to navigate, and it is generally provided by a variety of agencies in each state. Some states have made an effort to consolidate funding entities and partner agencies to provide a singular point of contact for assistance to communities in their region. In this blog series,
- [Water Advisory Committees: One Group, Multiple Funding Agencies – Colorado](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/water-advisory-committees-one-group-multiple-funding-agencies-colorado/) - Funding for water and wastewater projects can be confusing to navigate, and it is generally provided by a variety of agencies in a state. Some states have made an effort to consolidate funding entities and partner agencies to provide a singular point of contact for assistance to communities in their region. In this blog series,
- [Septic Tank Inspection Basics](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/septic-tank-inspection-basics/) - This video covers practical tips for inspecting septic tanks and covers measurement of solids levels as a means to evaluate pumping frequencies. This video is created and presented by Greg Pearson, who is the water and wastewater systems trainer at the Great Lakes Environmental Infrastructure Center at Michigan Tech.
- [Flowing Forward: Confronting the Legacy of Combined Sewer Overflows in the United States](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/flowing-forward-confronting-the-legacy-of-combined-sewer-overflows-in-the-united-states/) - Dive deep into the murky history and lasting impact of combined sewer overflows (CSOs) in the United States. This video unravels what a CSO is, the challenges CSOs cause, and what is being done to address those challenges. Discover what it takes to tackle these issues and safeguard the health of our communities and natural
- [Water Advisory Committees: One Group, Multiple Funding Agencies – Georgia](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/water-advisory-committees-one-group-multiple-funding-agencies-georgia/) - Funding for water and wastewater projects can be confusing to navigate, and it is generally provided by a variety of agencies in each state. Some states have made an effort to consolidate funding entities and partner agencies to provide a singular point of contact for assistance to communities in their region. In this blog series,
- [Takeaways from the "Closing America's Wastewater Access Gap" Pilot](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/takeaways-from-the-closing-americas-wastewater-access-gap-pilot/) - In this podcast, Dawn Nall and A.J. Barney from the Southwest Environmental Finance Center discuss their recent experience providing technical assistance as part of the EPA's "Closing America's Wastewater Access Gap" Pilot projects. They discuss what they liked about this project, how the pilot provided a unique strategy for progress, and how communities may benefit
- [Working with Engineers](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/working-with-engineers/) - Engineers are an important partner in any proposed infrastructure project. With projects intended to benefit the community, community members are the owners of the project and ultimately control the outcomes. It is important to emphasize the community’s current assets in new engineering design solutions. The design process should be collaborative, where the community and engineer
- [How Can Equitable Green Infrastructure Play a Powerful Role in Climate Resilience?](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/how-can-equitable-green-infrastructure-play-a-powerful-role-in-climate-resilience/) - Webinar Recap: Equitable Green Infrastructure in a Changing Climate This webinar was presented by the Environmental Finance Center Network (EFCN) in July 2024 as part of a 10-part series focused on the financial, managerial, and technical aspects of green infrastructure. Southwest Environmental Finance Center research scientist Shannon Pepper speaks with Dany Garcia Moreno, Climate Resilience
- [Beware of the FOG This Holiday Season!](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/beware-of-the-fog-this-holiday-season/) - The holidays are a wonderful time to travel, visit friends and family, welcome new people to the dinner table, give back, and be thankful. According to the American Automobile Association (AAA), 115.2 million Americans traveled more than fifty miles from home over the 2023 Christmas and New Year’s holidays. Forbes estimates that 119 million Americans
- [Financial Management for Small Water and Wastewater Systems: Annual Audits](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/financial-management-for-small-water-and-wastewater-systems-annual-audits/) - Developing and maintaining water and wastewater systems’ infrastructure is essential and also expensive. For effective management, communities of all sizes generally must complete an annual audit or financial statement. The economic health and sustainability of these community systems depend on annual assessment and strategizing. These documents include a balance sheet, a statement of cash flows,
- [Tap into Lead Line Funding: Financing Options for Cost Effective Replacement](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tap-into-lead-line-funding-financing-options-for-cost-effective-replacement/) - The rapid expansion of public infrastructure in the 20th century brought drinking water into the homes of millions of Americans. As each new home was connected to the invisible labyrinth of pipes, a particularly durable material was often used: lead. In the following decades, lead has been shown to pose a serious health risk for
- [Transitioning Small Wastewater Treatment Plants to Solar with Direct Pay Incentives](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/transitioning-small-wastewater-treatment-plants-to-solar-with-direct-pay-incentives/) - Energy & its Importance for Small WWTPs Small wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs), which treat less than 1 million gallons per day (MGD), make up 79% of wastewater utilities in the United States and play a crucial role in our communities. WWTPs and drinking water systems account for approximately 2% of energy use in the United
- [SRF Funding Process: How To Get Funding For Your Utility](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/srf-funding-process-how-to-get-funding-for-your-utility/) - The State Revolving Fund can be an attractive funding option for many utilities because it covers a broad range of projects with different loan options. But how do you apply for those funds?
- [Understanding Your NPDES Permit: Insights for Utility Managers and Wastewater Operators of Small Systems](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/understanding-your-npdes-permit-insights-for-utility-managers-and-wastewater-operators-of-small-systems/) - For wastewater systems near bodies of water, navigating National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permits is important for protecting our water bodies. Here’s a quick guide to better understand and effectively manage your NPDES permit. Permit Types It is first important to understand if your facility is regulated under an individual or a general permit.
- [Huddle Up (for Your Infrastructure Funding)!](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/huddle-up-for-your-infrastructure-funding/) - Finally, football season is upon us again! But what does this have to do with your infrastructure funding? Well, if you are a football fan, you know that every play starts with a huddle. In a football huddle, the quarterback gathers all of their teammates and calls the best play for the situation. The decision
- [Pretreatment Programs for Small Systems: How small systems can implement and benefit from pretreatment programs and practices](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/pretreatment-programs-for-small-systems-how-small-systems-can-implement-and-benefit-from-pretreatment-programs-and-practices/) - First of all, what is pretreatment for wastewater and sewer systems? Pretreatment programs are often utilized by sewer authorities to protect their wastewater system and support their National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permits, by establishing regulations that allow them to monitor the wastewater discharge of commercial entities in their community and administer enforcement actions
- [Whispers of Clean Water: The Art of Wastewater Treatment](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/whispers-of-clean-water-the-art-of-wastewater-treatment/) - Ever wonder what happens to the water that goes down your drain? Allow us to take you on an ASMR exploration of the Metropolitan Syracuse Wastewater Treatment Plant. This video showcases the unsung heroes of wastewater treatment and the vital services they provide to our communities. ✨ Created by: Cristen Crew and Mya Bonney of
- [How to Avoid Common Pitfalls When Designing a Community-Based Public-Private Partnership](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/how-to-avoid-common-pitfalls-when-designing-a-community-based-public-private-partnership/) - A Community-Based Public-Private Partnership (CBP3) can be a powerful model for tackling urban infrastructure challenges, particularly in managing stormwater and improving community resilience. For these partnerships to succeed, several core elements must align to create a balanced and mutually beneficial relationship between public entities, private partners and the community. Without these core elements, utilities may
- [Decentralized or Cluster Systems for Hawaii Cesspool Conversions](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/decentralized-or-cluster-systems-for-hawaii-cesspool-conversions/) - Project Background There are approximately 83,000 cesspools in the State of Hawaii, releasing an estimated 50 million gallons per day (mgd) of wastewater into the environment. Cesspools can negatively impact human health, drinking water sources, water bodies, plants and animals, recreation, and the economy. In 2017, Act 125 was passed by the Hawaii State Legislature,
- [Water Advisory Committees: One Group, Multiple Funding Agencies – Nevada](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/water-advisory-committees-one-group-multiple-funding-agencies-nevada/) - Funding for water and wastewater projects can be confusing to navigate and it is generally provided by a variety of agencies in a state. Some states have made an effort to consolidate funding entities and partner agencies to provide a singular point of contact for assistance to communities in their region. In this blog series,
- [Homes With Septic Systems Are More Common Than You Think](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/homes-with-septic-systems-are-more-common-than-you-think/) - Roughly 25% of homes across the globe aren't connected to public wastewater systems, but why? Learn About Septic Systems: https://www.epa.gov/septic/septicsmart
- [How Can Extremely Dry Weather Benefit Your Septic System?](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/how-can-extremely-dry-weather-benefit-your-septic-system/) - It’s like turning lemons into lemonade. If you do not like lemons, you may want to find something good that can be found in or produced from this fruit. Some people do not like extremely dry weather, but it is something that we may all very well experience every year or have experienced at some
- [The WaterTA Menu: A Tempting Guide to Technical Assistance Services](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/the-waterta-menu-a-tempting-guide-to-technical-assistance-services/) - If you work in the water industry, you’ve probably encountered the term "technical assistance" (TA) before, but what does it actually involve? Recently, WaterTA has become more widely available, thanks to significant changes in infrastructure funding through initiatives like the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL), to name a few. Programs
- [Nurturing Social Emotional Intelligence: A Crucial Asset for Young Professionals](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/nurturing-social-emotional-intelligence-a-crucial-asset-for-young-professionals/) - In today’s workforce, technical skills alone are no longer sufficient to succeed. While technical skills and knowledge in your field are imperative, young professionals must cultivate social and emotional intelligence to navigate the complexities of balancing their personal lives and their professional lives. When you think of good leaders, what are some of the qualities
- [How Algae Can Be Used to Keep Lakes Free of Pollutants](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/how-algae-can-be-used-to-keep-lakes-free-of-pollutants/) - Natural bodies of water, like lakes, need a balance of oxygen, nutrients, and life to sustain a healthy ecosystem. If the balance is upset the entire system is disrupted. Algal Turf Scrubbers can help maintain a healthy balance by using algae to regulate the amount of nutrients entering a water body.
- [How Does Oxygen Help Clean Wastewater?](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/how-does-oxygen-help-clean-wastewater/) - Oxygen is a vital component in supporting all kinds of life on our planet, even tiny microscopic life that consumes contaminants in wastewater, helping to clean it.
- [Working with Tribal Nations: An Open Letter from Lionel Puhuyesva, Senior Utility Advisor at Moonshot Missions](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/working-with-tribal-nations/) - Hello everyone, My name is Lionel Puhuyesva, and I am a member of the Hopi Tribe located in Northeastern Arizona. I work with Moonshot Missions as a Senior Utility Advisor. Moonshot Missions is a non-profit dedicated to ensuring clean and healthy water and waterways in under-resourced communities. Our assistance varies based on the needs of
- [Podcast Round-Up: 12 Episodes on Drinking Water Finance and Management](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/podcast-round-12-episodes-drinking-water-finance-management/) - My colleague Stacey Isaac Berahzer, a senior project director here at the Environmental Finance Center, made her podcast debut this week on The Water Values Podcast, a series specifically focused on drinking water finance and management. The Water Values is one of several podcast series that features content on the drinking water sector. For those who don’t know, a
- [The PFAS Problem: How Does PFAS Get Into Our Water and How Can It Be Harmful?](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/the-pfas-problem/) - [et_pb_section admin_label=”section”] [et_pb_row admin_label=”row”] [et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text”]Non-Governmental Resource: -Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health: https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/news/hsph-in-the-news/pfas-health-risks-underestimated/ Federal Government Resources: -U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA): https://www.epa.gov/pfas -Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR): https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/pfas/index.html -National Institutes of Health (NIH): https://www.niehs.nih.gov/health/topics/agents/pfc/index.cfm -Food and Drug Administration (FDA): https://www.fda.gov/food/chemicals/and-polyfluoroalkyl-substances-pfas -United States Department of Defense (DOD): https://www.denix.osd.mil/army-pfas/index.html -United States
- [Financing for Water and Wastewater Systems Using Capital Improvement Planning](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/financing-for-water-and-wastewater-systems-using-capital-improvement-planning/) - Clean water is an integral part of a thriving community and environment. Without updated water and wastewater treatment systems, human and environmental safety is challenged. Financing new infrastructure projects can often be a roadblock for small communities. This blog will introduce capital improvement planning (CIP) and financing advice for small community water and wastewater systems
- [The Crucial Partnership: Public Utilities and Engineers](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/the-crucial-partnership-public-utilities-and-engineers/) - Collaboration between public utilities and engineers is necessary and crucial in shaping our communities and ensuring sustainable civil development. This blog post delves into the essential partnership between these two entities and how their collaborative efforts significantly contribute to the betterment of society. It's a story of teamwork, reliability, and dedication, all at the heart
- [Collaborating With Your Design Engineer](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/collaborating-with-your-design-engineer/) - In this podcast you will hear from Heather Himmelberger, Dawn Nall, and Mike Rivera on their perspectives of what you need to talk to your engineer about during both the planning and design phase of your project. Heather and Dawn are both engineers and Mike is a certified water and wastewater operator. They share their
- [Fats Oils and Grease in the Home: How to Prevent Clogged Pipes and Unwanted Back-Ups ](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/fats-oils-and-grease-in-the-home-how-to-prevent-clogged-pipes-and-unwanted-back-ups/) - Fats, Oils, and Grease (FOG) are a common problem in sewer systems that can cause serious issues for the public and individual homes. FOG results from the cleaning of dishes used to prepare, serve, and eat food or when these materials are dumped directly down the drain. When food is washed off dishes or if
- [Green Infrastructure: Adaptable Solutions for Your Climate](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/green-infrastructure-adaptable-solutions-for-your-climate/) - This video provides an overview of the benefits of green infrastructure (GI), including examples of GI in action in different climates throughout the United States.
- [Protecting Your Septic System During Landscaping Season](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/protecting-your-septic-system-during-landscaping-season/) - Summer is upon us: the trees and flowers are blooming, and many people are excited to get in the yard or garden. This time of year sees an increase in minor and major construction around homes and businesses which is great for the aesthetics of our homes and communities, but we could have short-run or
- [Water Advisory Committees: One Group, Multiple Funding Agencies – West Virginia](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/water-advisory-committees-one-group-multiple-funding-agencies-west-virginia/) - Funding to support water and wastewater projects can be confusing to navigate. It is generally provided by a variety of agencies in a state. Some states have made an effort to consolidate funding entities and partner agencies to provide a singular point of contact for assistance to communities in their region. In this blog series,
- [Under the Surface: Hidden Workforce Challenges Facing Public Water Workers](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/under-the-surface-hidden-workforce-challenges-facing-public-water-workers/) - Public water and wastewater utilities have been referred to as “Anchor Institutions”, forming the foundation of our communities by safeguarding public health and protecting the environment. Across the United States, the water sector employs 1.7 million workers who design, construct, operate, and govern the water infrastructure that our communities depend on. Despite their crucial roles,
- [Case Study: How MASSTC, the First Septic Utility Program of its Kind, Reduces Pollution and Protects Public Health](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/case-study-how-masstc-the-first-septic-utility-program-of-its-kind-reduces-pollution-and-protects-public-health/) - What should a municipality do when an innovative management approach for private septic systems is needed? Did you know that more than one in five homes in the United States depend on septic systems to treat their wastewater? According to the Census Bureau, the distribution and density of septic systems vary widely from state to
- [Morgan State University: New Green Centerpiece](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/morgan-state-university-new-green-centerpiece/) - The Center for the Built Environment and Infrastructure Studies was an innovative marvel of green design when it debuted in 2012, and a decade later we are recapturing that success. In stunning neoclassical style, the Calvin & Tina Tyler Hall is doubling down on Morgan State University’s commitment to fostering sustainability and resilience. An Impactful
- [Morgan State University: Hidden Green Practices](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/morgan-state-university-hidden-green-practices/) - Morgan State University (MSU) as an institution has been quick to adopt green practices to enhance its buildings and campus. However, many of those improvements remain hidden away from the average passerby. We would like to point out the green stormwater infrastructure you may not notice on a walk through our campus grounds. Green Design
- [Morgan State University: A Showcase in Green Infrastructure](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/morgan-state-university-a-showcase-in-green-infrastructure/) - Morgan State University (MSU) was chosen to participate in a technical assistance program based on our prior engagement in green infrastructure projects. We were asked by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), under their Clean Water Rural, Small, and Tribal Technical Assistance Grant Program, to develop a blog series showcasing the green infrastructure of
- [The PFAS Problem](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/the-pfas-problem-2/) - PFAS in our drinking water are a growing concern. But what are they? And where do they come from?
- [Improving Wastewater Communications through Understanding Your Target Audience](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/improving-wastewater-communications-through-understanding-your-target-audience/) - Every water system communicates with stakeholders. Would you like to see your community value water more? Are you raising your rates? Are you seeking support from local leaders such as elected officials or agency leaders for overdue infrastructure projects? Would like to reduce sources of water contamination? No matter what your communication goals—increasing awareness, eliciting
- [Intern Insights: Navigating PFAS Challenges in Water and Materials Management](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/intern-insights-navigating-pfas-challenges-in-water-and-materials-management/) - First Impressions Prior to the start of my internship at the Syracuse University Environmental Finance Center (SU-EFC), I had never even heard of the term ‘PFAS’. However, a bit of research on Per and Polyfluoroalkyl substances revealed an alarming issue that I was eager to learn more about. From the moment I interviewed with the
- [Koi Fish in Wastewater Treatment](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/koi-fish-in-wastewater-treatment/) - This video provides an overview of the use of fish in wastewater clarifiers. It includes a discussion of various case studies, footage from Gatesville, TX (where koi have been used in secondary clarifiers for almost two decades) and an interview with the Gatesville Utility Superintendent discussing their history with koi.
- [Closing America's Wastewater Access Gap: A Case Study](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/closing-americas-wastewater-access-gap-a-case-study/) - Moonshot Missions (a partner of the EFCN) discusses the experiences they've had with the San Carlos Apache Tribe, one of the communities participating in EPA's and USDA's Closing America's Wastewater Access Gap Pilot Project. San Carlos Apache Tribe worked alongside EPA, USDA, IHS, EFCN, contractors and many others to develop a plan for issues they
- [Why Communicating About Wastewater Is So Important](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/why-communicating-about-wastewater-is-so-important/) - In this episode, Dawn Nall from the Southwest Environmental Finance Center interviews Sarah Diefendorf and Elaine McCarty from the Capacity Collaborative on the importance of communicating in the wastewater industry. Sarah and Elaine reflect on their vast experience focusing on community outreach and education to share what they've learned about communication in wastewater, especially the
- [PFAS Settlements: What Water Professionals Need to Know](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/pfas-settlements-what-water-professionals-need-to-know/) - PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are a group of synthetic chemicals that have emerged as an environmental and public health concern due to their extraordinary bond strength and resistance to degradation, earning them the nickname “forever chemicals.” For small water systems, the threat of PFAS contamination in drinking water supply can be a daunting
- [The Environmental Finance Center Network - What We Do](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/the-environmental-finance-center-network-what-we-do/) - The EFCN is made up of universities and non-profits across the country that include many qualified experts who are ready to provide free support to water and wastewater utilities with technical, managerial, and financial challenges.
- [What We Don't Know We Don't Know About Septic](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/what-we-dont-know-we-dont-know-about-septic/) - In this episode Dawn Nall from the Southwest Environmental Finance Center interviews Sarah Diefendorf and Elaine McCarty from the EFC West, or soon to be Capacity Collaborative, on the impact unknowns have on septic systems and the communities they influence. Septic systems are an important tool used to meet the wastewater needs of many communities
- [Using Recycled Wastewater for Landscape Irrigation.  Celebrating 40 years: The City of Tucson's Reclaimed Water System](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/using-recycled-wastewater-for-landscape-irrigation-celebrating-40-years-the-city-of-tucsons-reclaimed-water-system/) - Interested in water reuse and reclamation? Learn from the ones who pioneered the process! Tucson Arizona's Reclaimed Water System, which uses recycled wastewater for landscape irrigation, is celebrating their 40th anniversary this month. Join Southwest EFC Project Director, Dr. joni m palmer, as she interviews City of Tuscon staff John Kmiec, Tucson Water Director; James
- [Where Does the Water Go When You Flush the Toilet?](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/where-does-the-water-go-when-you-flush-the-toilet/) - Hidden beneath our feet, wastewater infrastructure--your sewer system--is built to carry wastewater from entire communities to a treatment facility. This infrastructure is designed to tackle many issues concerning health and environmental quality. But how does it work? This quick video shows you the basics.
- ["What’s the Problem?" Building Awareness to Change Behavior](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/whats-the-problem-building-awareness-to-change-behavior/) - The Capacity Collaborative is working with wastewater utilities in vulnerable communities across the United States on communicating septic management and care. What we have found, in each case, is that outreach efforts are starting at the end of the story, rather than the beginning. Public outreach always seems so simple: if we just tell people
- [Catalyzing Community Wastewater Solutions in the Coosa River Watershed for a Sustainable Future](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/catalyzing-community-wastewater-solutions-in-the-coosa-river-watershed-for-a-sustainable-future/) - Many of the rivers and streams our communities rely on for drinking water and recreation may appear to be clean. However, in some locations they have become dumping grounds for pollutants that pose a risk to public health and biodiversity of important ecosystems. The Coosa River, stretching from it’s origins in NW Georgia through six
- [Getting Stakeholder Engagement Right: Conversation Mapping in Action](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/getting-stakeholder-engagement-right-conversation-mapping-in-action/) - We explore the characteristics of good community engagement, and the consequences of doing it wrong, and then discuss how Conversation Mapping overcomes the most common problems people make when trying to engage their stakeholders.
- [Stakeholder Engagement Matters: Conversation Mapping in Action](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/stakeholder-engagement-matters-conversation-mapping-in-action/) - A Hawaiian regulatory agency used a stakeholder engagement tool, called Conversation Mapping, to reveal the barriers for homeowners to convert their cesspools to comply with state law.
- [The Spins Process Control Method: An Introduction for Wastewater Treatment Plant Operators](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/the-spins-process-control-method-an-introduction-for-wastewater-treatment-plant-operators/) - Moonshot Missions is a partner of the Environmental Finance Center Network (EFCN), offering no-cost solutions to small communities that need technical assistance. Through boots-on-the-ground initiatives, we provide technical, managerial, and financial support to water and wastewater utilities in need. Spins Process Control Method In wastewater treatment, effectively managing the activated sludge biological process is critical
- [Advanced Wastewater Math: Mean Cell Residence Time](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/advanced-wastewater-math-mean-cell-residence-time/) - Mean Cell Residence Time (MCRT) is an important parameter used in wastewater operations to assess the condition of activated sludge processes. MCRT is a measurement of the amount of time cells spend in the activated sludge process and helps determine the treatment efficiency of the process. This video provides an overview of MCRT and walkthroughs
- [Low-Stress Solutions for High-Strength Wastewater](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/low-stress-solutions-for-high-strength-wastewater/) - Where does water go when it spirals down the drain? Whether from a home, a local brewery, or the car wash down the street, it likely ends up in a public wastewater system. Public wastewater systems protect human health and the environment by removing contaminants from wastewater and releasing treated water back into local waterways.
- [Embarking on Bold Initiatives: Unveiling the Vision of Moonshot Missions](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/embarking-on-bold-initiatives-unveiling-the-vision-of-moonshot-missions/) - Embark on an exploration of the transformative odyssey undertaken by Moonshot Missions as we delve into the origins of this innovative initiative. In this enlightening podcast, Nathan Coey articulates the genesis of Moonshot Missions and recounts his personal involvement in fostering the growth of Moonshot Missions to its present prominence.
- [Providing Reliability: Interview With Paul Crocker and George Williams of Reliability X](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/providing-reliability-interview-with-paul-crocker-and-george-williams-of-reliability-x/) - We want our assets doing their intended function as much as possible, but how do we make that happen? One way is the concept of reliability. Reliability helps us ensure we are doing the right maintenance activities to keep our assets in proper working order as much as possible. It helps us prevent catastrophic failures
- [What Could Go Wrong With Your Sewer System?](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/what-could-go-wrong-with-your-sewer-system/) - Sewer systems are the underground heroes of water and wastewater systems. They play a vital role in protecting public health, the environment, and overall quality of life in communities around the world. It's important to be aware of the potential problems that can keep a sewer system from functioning properly.
- [Getting the Lead Out](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/getting-the-lead-out/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.17.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.17.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.17.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.17.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”0px|||||” global_colors_info=”{}”]Introduction Today, the health impacts of lead are well-chronicled in children and in adults. Children exposed to lead, often through lead-based paint dust, may deal with chronic conditions including damaged brain and nervous systems, learning and behavior challenges, and slowed
- [Customer’s Role in Lead Service Line Replacement](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/customers-role-in-lead-service-line-replacement/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.17.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”0px|||||” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.17.4″ _module_preset=”default” min_height=”102px” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.17.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.17.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”] Introduction Lead’s historic use in water pipes has come under scrutiny as a result of increased understanding of its health impacts on both adults and children. Lead exposure in children can affect development of the brain and nervous
- [The Future of Septic Systems in Rural Coastal Areas: Considering the Options](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/the-future-of-septic-systems-in-rural-coastal-areas-considering-the-options/) - [et_pb_section admin_label=”section”] [et_pb_row admin_label=”row”] [et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text”]Decentralized or “on-site” wastewater treatment systems, commonly referred to as septic systems, are a common method of treating wastewater in rural areas that do not have access to centralized sewer service. These systems treat wastewater for a single property or a small cluster of properties. They are typically located
- [How to Maintain Your Residential Lagoon](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/how-to-maintain-your-residential-lagoon/) - [et_pb_section admin_label=”section”] [et_pb_row admin_label=”row”] [et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text”]Homes with onsite wastewater treatment may use a lagoon as a method for treating wastewater. While lagoons do use natural processes for treatment, they still need to be maintained and monitored to keep the lagoon working efficiently and effectively. Here are some tips for maintaining your residential lagoon.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column] [/et_pb_row]
- [How Do Your Essential Water Services Get Funded?](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/how-do-essential-water-services-get-funded/) - Filling up a glass of water in the sink or washing a load of dishes seem like everyday tasks, but maintaining these water and wastewater services is anything but cheap. The State Revolving Funds are a solution to providing continual funding for many water and wastewater needs.
- [Animation Commentary: The Importance of a Standard Operating Procedure](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/animation-commentary-the-importance-of-a-standard-operating-procedure/) - [et_pb_section admin_label=”section”] [et_pb_row admin_label=”row”] [et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text”] The Concept The idea for the Importance of a Standard Operating Procedure animation arose from the need to explain complex subjects in an accessible way. Our team decided the process of taking drinking water samples would be a great example to express the importance of following a standard
- [How Does a Lagoon Treat Wastewater?](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/how-does-a-lagoon-treat-wastewater/) - Lagoons are an effective measure for treating wastewater used for communities and private homes alike, but how do they work?
- [Big Picture - Headworks & Primary Treatment](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/big-picture-headworks-primary-treatment/) - This episode describes the headworks and primary treatment process of a typical wastewater treatment plant. The discussion of the headworks focuses on the purpose, process, and components of coarse screenings, grit removal, and influent sampling processes. The podcast covers the clarification component of primary treatment, the purpose, components, and operator duties.
- [Big Picture - Collection Systems and Pretreatment](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/big-picture-collection-systems-and-pretreatment/) - In this episode, we dive into collection systems. We discuss the basic components that make up collection systems and their objectives. Wastewater starts at your home, then travels to the wastewater treatment plant: we will discuss all the parts that get it there. Finally, we talk about what it takes to maintain that system and
- [EPA Final Recommendation: Ambient Water Quality Criteria to Address Nutrient Pollution in Lakes and Reservoirs](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/epa-final-recommendation-ambient-water-quality-criteria-to-address-nutrient-pollution-in-lakes-and-reservoirs/) - The EPA published final recommended ambient water quality criteria to address nutrient pollution in lakes and reservoirs under Section 304(a) of the Clean Water Act in August 2021. These recommendations address water quality standards for Total Nitrogen and Total Phosphorus to protect three designated areas: aquatic life, recreation, and drinking water sources. These recommendations include
- [Nurturing the Ripple Effect: The Servant Leader in the Water Sector](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/nurturing-the-ripple-effect-the-servant-leader-in-the-water-sector/) - In the world of leadership, where various styles and approaches are continuously emerging, the concept of a "servant leader" stands out as a powerful and transformative model. But what exactly is a servant leader, and why is this approach especially fitting for the water sector? In this blog post, we will delve into the
- [Potable Reuse of Wastewater in New Mexico: Proposed Regulations and Federal Funding Opportunities](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/potable-reuse-of-wastewater-in-new-mexico-proposed-regulations-and-federal-funding-opportunities/) - The New Mexico Environment Department’s (NMED) Ground Water Quality Bureau (GWB) published its draft rule to regulate wastewater reuse from domestic, industrial and produced (oil & gas) sources on November 1, 2023. The proposed Supplemental Requirements for Water Reuse (20.6.8 NMAC) is open for public comment through December 1, 2023. These proposed regulations stem from
- [AI in Water Management: Six Ways Artificial Intelligence Can Help Solve Problems Across the Water Sector](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/ai-in-water-management-six-ways-artificial-intelligence-can-help-solve-problems-across-the-water-sector/) - When you think of Artificial Intelligence (AI), what comes to mind? Robots? Human-like machines designed to cause widespread destruction and chaos? As the popularity of AI has surged in recent years, people are not only becoming more comfortable with the use of AI, but are also actively seeking out ways to use it to their
- [Maps and GIS for Management in Small Wastewater Systems](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/maps-and-gis-for-management-in-small-wastewater-systems/) - Movie buffs likely remember the classic film “The Third Man” and its climactic final chase scene set in the wastewater collection system (aka sewers) of post-war Vienna, Austria. The protagonist Holly Martins (Joseph Cotton) races through the dark and shadowy tunnels under the city in chase of his former friend Harry Lime (Orson Welles), who
- [Maps and GIS for Management in Small Water Systems: Getting Started](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/maps-and-gis-for-management-in-small-water-systems-getting-started/) - Open any old file of dusty planning documents for a water system, and there will likely be renderings or photographs of paper maps that provide the layout of system components. The information shown on these maps is important to water systems planning, but traditional maps lack the ability to link other important water system information
- [Spring has sprung - It’s water and wastewater enterprise budget time!](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/spring-has-sprung-its-water-and-wastewater-enterprise-budget-time/) - With the change of season, most units of government have started their budget process for the next fiscal year. In addition to their general fund budget, units need to be developing and refining their water and wastewater enterprise budgets. It may sound simple to take the last few years’ budgets and project both expenses and
- [How are Wastewater Systems Adapting to Climate Change?](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/how-are-wastewater-systems-adapting-to-climate-change/) - Severe storms and flooding can cause problems for wastewater systems whenever they occur, but these events are happening more frequently and with more intensity due to climate change. The impacts of these events on wastewater systems are not limited to more frequent flooding, power outages, and service interruptions, but also may include sewer overflows, reduced
- [Leaders Making Waves: Celebrating the 2023 Water Leadership Program Cohort](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/leaders-making-waves-celebrating-the-2023-water-leadership-program-cohort/) - In summer 2023, 32 water professionals successfully completed the Environmental Finance Center Network’s (EFCN) inaugural Water Leadership Program (WLP). From April through July, participants from 20 states joined together to hone their leadership and management skills through a series of specialized trainings, one-on-one advising, and career-embedded self-assessment. WATCH: EFCN released a short video showcasing the
- [Speaking for the River: An Interview with Justinn Overton, Executive Director Coosa WaterKeeper](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/speaking-for-the-river-an-interview-with-justinn-overton-executive-director-coosa-waterkeeper/) - Justinn Overton, Executive Director Coosa WaterKeeper located in Birmingham Alabama patrols and documents the Coosa River and its tributaries from the land, water, and air, looks for pollution problems, responds to citizen complaints, researches and analyzes polluters’ permits, collects pollution samples for laboratory analysis, educates the public about the beauty of the river and threats
- [The Impacts of Changing Precipitation Patterns on Wastewater and Stormwater Systems](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/the-impacts-of-changing-precipitation-patterns-on-wastewater-and-stormwater-systems/) - Many regions of the U.S. are experiencing heavier rain events that drop more water in shorter periods of time, and these trends are projected to strengthen over the coming decades. These events may overwhelm local stormwater infrastructure and cause problems for wastewater systems, in part because much of this infrastructure was designed using precipitation data
- [Getting to the Root: Using “Five Whys” to Understand and Communicate Wastewater Issues in Oxford, Alabama](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/getting-to-the-root-using-five-whys-to-understand-and-communicate-wastewater-issues-in-oxford-alabama/) - Wastewater collection and treatment systems seem like basic infrastructure to most people, but are fraught with complexity due to aging pipes, deferred maintenance and a never-ending supply of unpredictable materials being sent down the drain by users. Though most wastewater collection systems are similar in design and construction, each system and each neighborhood can have
- [Lagoons and Septics: Covering the Basics](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/lagoons-and-septics-covering-the-basics/) - Dr. DeAnn Presley, PhD, a Professor of Environmental Soil Science and Management discusses how soil conditions impact different home waste systems with Tonya Bronlewee, Director at the WSU EFC.
- [5 Things You Should Know About New York’s Monumental Environmental Bond Act](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/5-things-you-should-know-about-new-yorks-monumental-environmental-bond-act/) - In November 2022, New York voters showed their support at the ballot box for the Environmental Bond Act for Clean Water, Clean Air, and Green Jobs. Over 67% of voters in New York voted in favor of this act, and a staggering 81% of voters in New York City voted in support. New York
- [Wastewater Math Tutorial: Concentration Formulas](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/wastewater-math-tutorial-concentration-formulas/) - Understanding the concept of concentration and how it relates to wastewater is an important skill for all wastewater works. It is essential in understanding initial wastewater conditions, compliance, and water quality. This video will guide you on how to calculate concentration.
- [Should You Use Additives in Your Septic Tank?](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/should-you-use-additives-in-your-septic-tank/) - To use septic tank additives, or not? That's the million dollar question. Research shows that septic tank additives can cause damage to your septic tank. Learn from Dr. Jason Barrett with MSU Extension why additives should be avoided. To learn more about how to keep your septic system functioning properly, visit https://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io.
- [Fostering a Culture of Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion in the Water Sector With Dr. Mercy Umeri](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/fostering-a-culture-of-diversity-equity-inclusion-in-the-water-sector-with-dr-mercy-umeri/) - On this episode, we are delighted to welcome Dr. Mercy Umeri from the Hugo Wall School of Public Affairs at Wichita State University as our guest. Dr. Umeri shares valuable insights on the importance of implementing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion practices in the water sector. She also speaks on the significance of conflict resolution and
- [Flood Disaster Lessons and Mitigation Successes at a Small Wastewater System in Vermont](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/flood-disaster-lessons-and-mitigation-successes-at-a-small-wastewater-system-in-vermont/) - Many communities’ wastewater treatment plants and related infrastructure are located in or near floodplains, which makes sense given how these facilities work. However, this also means that they are prone to flooding. The Town of Waterbury, Vermont experienced catastrophic flooding during Hurricane Irene in 2011, as did the rest of the state. Their wastewater pump
- [Aging infrastructure? Insufficient funding? Managing your system better? We should talk.](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/aging-infrastructure-insufficient-funding-managing-your-system-better-we-should-talk/) - “Our water and sewer infrastructure is aging out.” “Deteriorating infrastructure with capacity that no longer meets demand.” “Looking for info to help change city water policy on deposit vs. connection fee for account holders.” So many needs. So little time. Such is the case for many operators and managers of small or underserved wastewater systems.
- [Board Member Need-to-Knows: Technical, Managerial, and Financial Insights](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/board-member-need-to-knows-technical-managerial-and-financial-insights/) - Importance of Utility Boards and TMF Education Utility boards and council members serve as stewards to one of America’s most important public health assets, water and wastewater utilities. We often take for granted our ability to simply turn on the faucet and flush the toilet and know that the water is safe to drink and
- [10,000 + 1 Marketing and Outreach Messages](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/10000-1-marketing-and-outreach-messages/) - Marketing research has found that we are exposed to as many as 10,000 marketing/outreach messages daily. This podcast by Wichita State University Program Manager Brian Bohnsack focuses on practical ways wastewater and water utilities can increase the efficacy of their outreach and marketing messages.
- [Integrated Water Resource Management: A Conversation with the Derry Township Municipal Authority](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/integrated-water-resource-management-a-conversation-with-the-derry-township-municipal-authority/) - There are many benefits of more holistic or integrated water resource management, whether that is across "types" of water resources or across municipal boundaries. The Derry Township Municipal Authority (DTMA) in south-central Pennsylvania has served as the local wastewater utility for several decades. Recently they took over management of the Township's stormwater system. Mike Postick,
- [Wastewater Math Tutorial: Food to Microorganism Ratio](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/wastewater-math-tutorial-food-to-microorganism-ratio/) - Wastewater treatment relies on biological processes to clean the water. This video discusses the important relationship between naturally occurring microorganisms and the organic material--food--they consume.
- [Operator Certification Math - Flow and Volume](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/operator-certification-math-flow-and-volume/) - Ace the Math portion of your wastewater operator certification exam! Flow and volume are two of the most important math concepts of wastewater math. This video walks though how to approach the types of problems used to calculate flow and volume.
- [Thinking on a Landscape Scale for Small Green Infrastructure Projects: A Case Study and Conversation with Cameron Weber](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/thinking-on-landscape-scale-for-small-green-infrastructure/) - Join us for the second podcast in a series exploring green infrastructure for small water, wastewater, and stormwater systems and utilities. Shannon Pepper, from the Southwest Environmental Finance Center, interviews Cameron Weber from Rio Grande Return, a nonprofit organization in New Mexico focused on ecological restoration of wetlands and watershed health. In this podcast we
- [The 3 Facets of NPDES Permit Development](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/the-3-facets-of-npdes-permit-development/) - Mike Tate discusses the development of a National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit. He goes over the three facets of developing NPDES Permits: Technology Based Limits, TMDL Specified Limits and Water Quality Based Limits. Better understand your permit today!
- [Accessing the Maryland State Revolving Loan Fund (SRF): Affordable Financing for Water Quality and Drinking Water Projects](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/accessing-the-maryland-state-revolving-loan-fund-srf-affordable-financing-for-water-quality-and-drinking-water-projects/) - The mission of the Maryland Water Infrastructure Financing Administration (WIFA) is to provide low interest rate loans under two Revolving Loan Fund Programs and grants under the State Bay Restoration Fund program for water quality, drinking water, and septic projects. New Federal Opportunities for Funding As a result of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law
- [Regional Development Organizations and Water Systems: Partnering for Resiliency](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/regional-development-organizations-and-water-systems-partnering-for-resiliency/) - This blog explains how regional development organizations (RDOs) can assist their local drinking water and wastewater systems in new ways. If you are part of a water or wastewater system, keep reading to learn how your area’s RDO can assist you with your system’s most pressing challenges. Our local drinking water and wastewater utility systems
- [Wastewater Nutrients Process Control Testing Series: Nitrates](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/wastewater-nutrients-process-control-testing-series-nitrates/) - Senior Program Manager at Wichita State University's EFC, Nicholas Willis, shares information regarding process control testing for nitrates in wastewater treatment plants.
- [Wastewater Math Tutorial: Small System Calculations](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/wastewater-math-tutorial-small-system-calculations/) - The most difficult section of the wastewater operator tests for many people is math. Use this video to sharpen up the skills you need to operate a small wastewater system.
- [Wastewater Math Tutorial: Unit Conversions](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/wastewater-math-tutorial-unit-conversions/) - The most difficult section of the wastewater operator tests for many people is math. Use this video to sharpen up your unit conversion skills.
- [Wastewater Operator Exam Study Guide and Test Tips](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/wastewater-operator-exam-study-guide-and-test-tips/) - This video will explain how studying for your wastewater operator test is like training for a big basketball game. Prepare properly and you are more likely to come out a champion.
- [IIJA Funding, Water Infrastructure and GFOA’s Implementation Resources Guide](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/iija-funding-water-infrastructure-and-gfoas-implementation-resources-guide/) - The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), aka Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL), was signed into law by President Biden in late 2021. The law authorizes over $1 trillion for transportation and infrastructure spending, with more than $500 billion of which going toward new investments and programs. IIJA funding is broad, aiming to address a multitude
- [7 Common Issues with Lagoons and Lagoon Operation](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/7-common-issues-with-lagoons-and-lagoon-operation/) - In this podcast we join Join Mike Tate, who spent a bulk of his 40 year career working with smaller communities and their lagoon systems. Mike goes over 7 common issues with lagoons that he encountered during his career, and offers practical advice on how to prevent and solve these issues.
- [How to Apply for Delaware’s Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF) and Access Available Technical Assistance](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/how-to-apply-for-delawares-drinking-water-state-revolving-fund/) - If you are a small water system in Delaware and you’re looking for funding options, consider the Delaware Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF). This program recently received an influx of federal money and is looking to fund systems like yours in need of financial support to maintain or improve their drinking water systems. The
- [Planning for Septic Tank Removal: Jekyll Island, Georgia](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/planning-for-septic-tank-removal-jekyll-island-georgia/) - Failed Septic Tanks: A Growing Water Quality Concern Septic tank failure is a growing yet frequently underreported problem in the United States. A 2020 Water & Wastewater Equipment Manufacturers Association (WWMEA) report estimates that nearly half of the nation’s 21 million septic tanks do not function properly. The EPA estimates that 20% of US homes
- [Fire Protection Fees: Too Hot to Handle?](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/fire-protection-fees-too-hot-to-handle/) - Did you know that, for every US home, at least 60,000 gallons of water is stored in water mains?* If customers had to pay utilities for this stored water, it would be equivalent to an additional $60/month on the average US water bill.** The cost of water provided by local utilities to fight fires, along
- [Benefits of Using the Small Community Assistance Planning Tool](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/benefits-of-using-the-small-community-assistance-planning-tool/) - Linda Hills, Senior Environmental Engineer from the organization that developed the Small Community Assistance Planning (SCAP) Tool, discusses how the tool was created, the benefits to small systems who need to develop an asset inventory, and how the tool can be used to design, update, and maintain an asset management plan.
- [Source Water Protection with Martha Graham, NMRW](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/source-water-protection-with-martha-graham-nmrw/) - Martha Graham, Source Water Protection Specialist at New Mexico Rural Water Association, discusses the importance of a source water protection assessment and plan with the EFCN team. We dive into source water protection for small water systems and water systems in New Mexico including resources for those interested in implementing source water protection at their
- [Septic Tank Odors](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/septic-tank-odors/) - Do you know how to recognize septic tank odors? This quick video explains the two places where septic odors may occur.
- [Small Wastewater Systems: Asset Management Plans and Implementation](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/small-wastewater-systems-asset-management-plans-and-implementation/) - This podcast discusses the importance of asset management, what issues an asset management plan helps to address, and plan implementation.
- [Small Wastewater Systems: Decentralized Systems](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/small-wastewater-systems-decentralized-systems/) - This podcast compares centralized and decentralized wastewater systems and describes the advantages and disadvantages of each system type.
- [Small Wastewater Systems: Setting Service Rates](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/small-wastewater-systems-setting-service-rates/) - This podcast explains different service rate structures, methods and resources used to set service rates, and the challenges small systems face in setting rates.
- [Small Wastewater Systems: How Lagoons Treat Wastewater](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/small-wastewater-systems-how-lagoons-treat-wastewater/) - This podcast provides an overview of how lagoons are used for wastewater treatment, the types of treatment lagoons, and how to maintain an effective treatment lagoon.
- [4 Steps to Becoming Cyber Risk Savvy](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/4-steps-to-becoming-cyber-risk-savvy/) - Blog adapted from: https://www.gfoa.org/materials/cyber-risk-savvy Cybercrime is a rising and evolving threat to water and wastewater systems across the nation. Last year, the federal government’s Critical Infrastructure and Security Agency (CISA) issued an advisory outlining the cyber threats water and wastewater systems are currently facing, including recent examples of ransomware attacks in California, Nevada, and
- [Interview with Elin Betanzo: Revised Lead and Copper Rule Compliance and Lessons Learned from the Flint Water Crisis](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/interview-with-elin-betanzo-revised-lead-and-copper-rule-compliance-and-lessons-learned-from-the-flint-water-crisis/) - This insightful interview with water quality expert Elin Warn Betanzo P.E. sheds light on the topic of lead contamination and compliance with the revised lead and copper rule. In this podcast you will be introduced to new research regarding lead sampling and monitoring, learn new ways to approach lead service line replacement projects, and find
- [Understanding SRF Allocations: How Intended Use Plans have changed with the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/understanding-srf-allocations-how-intended-use-plans-have-changed-with-the-bipartisan-infrastructure-law/) - State Revolving Funds, or SRFs, can be attractive for many utilities because they offer low-interest loans for expensive capital improvement projects. SRFs provide financing for drinking water projects through the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF) and wastewater projects through the Clean Water State Revolving Fund (CWSRF). With a heavy influx of additional SRF
- [Sustainability Spotlight on Easton Utilities](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/sustainability-spotlight-on-easton-utilities/) - Easton Utilities won the MD Green Registry's Sustainability Leadership Award for installing a 2-megawatt photovoltaic solar array, which produces more than 100% of the energy needed for its wastewater treatment facility and removing up to 95% of pollutants through wastewater treatment system and selling the resulting biosolids to local farmers as fertilizer, among other things.
- [Buffalo Blizzard of ‘22: Impacts from the Perspective of Buffalo Sewer Authority](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/buffalo-blizzard-of-22-impacts-from-the-perspective-of-buffalo-sewer-authority/) - In December of 2022, Buffalo, NY experienced a once-in-a-generation blizzard. Extensive snowfall and high winds impacted the city, devastating neighborhoods, and leaving community members stranded. In this episode, the Syracuse University Environmental Finance Center’s communications intern, Mya Bonney, interviews Rosie B. Nogle, a Principal Sanitary Engineer for the Buffalo Sewer Authority. Join us for a
- [Big Picture - EPA regulations and NPDES Permits](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/big-picture-epa-regulations-and-npdes-permits/) - In this podcast we will discuss the basic of the National Pollutant Discharge (NPDES) permit regulations. We talk to Ben Zimmerman, a data analyst and NPDES permit enforcement coordinator with the Albuquerque Water Authority, about typical permit requirements and program details. Processes for conducting compliance sampling, submitting EPA reports, the available resources, and enforcement are
- [Green River Area Development District’s Hire to Operate (H2O) Program](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/green-river-area-development-districts-hire-to-operate-h2o-program/) - This blog was originally posted at: https://www.nado.org/case-study-green-river-area-development-districts-hire-to-operate-h2o-program Water and wastewater systems across the country have faced challenges finding and retaining operators over the last few years as the labor market has continued to tighten. The labor shortage has been particularly acute for small water and wastewater systems which have struggled with finding and training
- [The Way We Talk About Water Matters: Insights from the 2022 National Waterways Literacy Survey](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/the-way-we-talk-about-water-matters/) - With constant access to a 24-hour news cycle and 86% of Americans now receiving news on their digital devices, it is impossible to avoid hearing about water stories in our communities and around the world. According to Water Words That Work - a public relations and marketing firm that focuses on ensuring Americans’ ability to
- [Operator Safety in Wastewater Treatment Plants](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/operator-safety-in-wastewater-treatment-plants/) - This podcast describes the various safety concerns associated with small wastewater treatment plants and details the practices and procedures operators should implement to ensure a safe working environment.
- [Work in Water Internship](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/work-in-water-internship/) - Tonya Bronleewe, Director at Wichita State University EFC, sits down with two interns that participated in the Work in Water program. This unique and adaptable internship program introduces students to the vital role water and wastewater systems play in their community. It allows students to explore water careers through real-word experiences and conversations with the
- [Preventing Emerging Contaminants from Entering Your Wastewater System](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/preventing-emerging-contaminants-from-entering-your-wastewater-system/) - Contaminants of Emerging Concern (CECs) are chemicals found in surface water that may cause ecological or human health impacts. In wastewater, one of the most common types of CECs are pharmaceuticals and personal care products (PPCPs). The EPA is not currently regulating CECs and PPCPs, but these contaminants are attracting the attention of researchers, environmentalists,
- [Why do we need Tertiary Treatment?](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/why-do-we-need-tertiary-treatment/) - This podcast details the various forms of tertiary treatments used by wastewater utilities in the removal of various contaminants found in wastewater. It emphasizes the importance of tertiary treatment in regards to unregulated and unmonitored contaminants of concern in wastewater as well as microplastic contaminants. Tertiary treatment includes bacteriological disinfection as well as additional treatment
- [Small Water Systems: Establishing Enforceable Standards for Safe Drinking Water](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/small-water-systems-establishing-enforceable-standards-for-safe-drinking-water/) - This podcast provides an overview of drinking water regulations and standards, specifically the Safe Drinking Water Act, regulated Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs), National Primary Drinking Water Regulations (NPDWR), National Secondary Drinking Water Regulations (NSDWRs), and other rules and regulations used to ensure safe drinking water.
- [Small Water Systems: Water Storage Facilities](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/small-water-systems-water-storage-facilities/) - This podcast describes the use of water storage facilities and associated components to ensure a continuous, dependable, and clean supply of drinking water.
- [The Nature of Wastewater and Its Effects](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/the-nature-of-wastewater-and-its-effects/) - This podcast describes the typical waste constituents found in wastewater, the importance of treatment, and general National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit requirements.
- [Small Water Systems: Lead and Copper Rule (LCR) - Overview and Requirements](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/small-water-systems-lead-and-copper-rule-lcr-overview-and-requirements/) - This podcast episode covers the latest version of the Lead and Copper Rule that came out in December 2021. This episode will focus on: action and trigger level exceedances, sampling and testing locations and requirements, lead service line replacement programs and their implementation, and notification and education requirements.
- [Big Picture - Activated Sludge](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/big-picture-activated-sludge/) - This podcast episode describes the process and purpose of activated sludge. The different components of a typical activated sludge process are provided, as well as duties and observations operators should be familiar with.
- [Struggling with Septic: North Carolina Towns take a Proactive Approach to Support Property Owners on Decentralized Systems](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/struggling-with-septic-north-carolina-towns-take-a-proactive-approach-to-support-property-owners-on-decentralized-systems/) - What Is a Septic System? When you flush the toilet, take a shower, or do the dishes, water is being used to wash away waste, but where does this water go? Many municipalities offer a sanitary sewer utility that has a centralized wastewater treatment plant, but residents outside of municipal boundaries often do not have
- [Emergency Response Planning](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/emergency-response-planning/) - Large scale disasters can cause significant disruptions to a water utility or system. The best way to prepare is to: Expect the unexpected! Analyze the inventory and inventory critical risks within your utility. Develop an emergency response plan. Planning in advance helps to ensure that when an emergency occurs everyone knows what to do. An
- [Public Problem, Private Property: 3 Examples of New York Septic System Community Programs](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/public-problem-private-property-3-examples-of-new-york-septic-system-community-programs/) - Have you ever wondered where your water goes after you use it? For most communities, sewage and wastewater go to centralized sewage systems that treat human waste and easily degradable solids. In more suburban and rural communities, it’s not uncommon for private properties to use septic systems to treat wastewater. What are septic systems?
- [Forever Chemicals: PFAS in Water and 3 Ways to Treat Them](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/forever-chemicals-pfas-in-water-and-3-ways-to-treat-them/) - In June of 2022, the EPA announced a huge pot of money available for Emerging Contaminants in small and disadvantaged communities -- $5 billion, to be exact. The grants that are available to states through this fund are meant to address the health problem in drinking water known as PFAS contamination. Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl
- [Small Water Systems: Addressing Iron,  Manganese, and Water Hardness Concerns](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/small-water-systems-addressing-iron-manganese-and-water-hardness-concerns/) - This podcast describes the measures taken to address iron, manganese, and water hardness concerns in drinking water treatment.
- [Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in New York's Water Sector](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/diversity-equity-and-inclusion-in-new-yorks-water-sector/) - In this podcast, hear from the Syracuse University Environmental Finance Center's Director of Water Resiliency Initiatives, Khris Dodson, as he interviews Walt Walker, Water Equity Practice Leader and Associate at Greeley and Hansen. The two discuss the challenges of incorporating Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) across all aspects of wastewater operations and drinking water operations,
- [Small Water Systems: Groundwater Treatment and Chlorine Disinfection](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/small-water-systems-groundwater-treatment-and-chlorine-disinfection/) - This podcast describes the use of chlorine disinfection for drinking water treatment at Small Water Systems.
- [Small Water Systems: Common Issues with Surface Water Treatment](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/small-water-systems-common-issues-with-surface-water-treatment/) - This podcast describes the common treatment issues and challenges faced when using surface water as a drinking water source.
- [Why Is a Standard Operating Procedure Important?](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/why-is-a-standard-operating-procedure-important/) - Standard Operating Procedures are written for a variety of tasks. An S.O.P. limits confusion, promotes effective training of new employees, and standardizes complex procedures. It’s important they’re followed to ensure safety, quality, and efficiency.
- [Wastewater Then and Now: Insights from a female wastewater professional](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/wastewater-then-and-now-insights-from-a-female-wastewater-professional/) - Becky Lewis worked in the wastewater field for 32 years. She started her career as a laboratory technician and retired from her position as Water Resources & Recovery Division Manager a few months ago. Tonya Bronleewe from the Environmental Finance Center at Wichita State University wanted to hear from Becky about how the industry has
- [Helping Small Water Systems Access Funding: An Overview of How EFCN Technical Assistance Works](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/helping-small-water-systems-access-funding-an-overview-of-how-efcn-technical-assistance-works/) - Finding funding for your small water system can be tough. Luckily, technical assistance programs exist today to help connect utility operators and managers with the right teams to help you plan for the new and unexpected, understand local and federal requirements, apply for funding, and even implement projects on the ground. For now, let’s talk
- [EPA H20 Community Solutions Teams: Reinvesting in Aging Water Infrastructure, Prioritizing Disadvantaged Communities](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/epa-h20-community-solutions-teams-reinvesting-in-aging-water-infrastructure-prioritizing-disadvantaged-communities/) - Both nationally and internationally, many assume that residents of the United States live with universal access to drinking water and sanitation. However, according to data from the American Community Survey and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), 489,836 US households lack complete plumbing; 1,165 community water systems are in serious violation of the Safe Drinking Water
- [Wastewater System Financial Management Basics](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/wastewater-system-financial-management-basics/) - Sound financial management can be one of the most difficult aspects of running a utility or system. This blog will break that process down into four basic parts, addressing wastewater system financial statements, budgets, rate setting, and affordability. Financial Statements The Financial Statement shows how the utility is operating. It provides information on
- [The Threat of Wildfires: Impacts on Local Water and Wastewater Systems](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/the-threat-of-wildfires-impacts-on-local-water-and-wastewater-systems/) - Tune in for a discussion of how wildfires impact wastewater and drinking water systems. As climate change further exacerbates natural disasters, water and wastewater systems will be put at greater risk for service and infrastructure failure or malfunction. In this podcast, we will begin to understand why more frequent wildfires are occurring, and will then
- [Drought, Water and Environmental Justice: Life in the Desert in Imperial County California](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/drought-water-and-environmental-justice-life-in-the-desert-in-imperial-county-california/) - In this podcast Sarah Diefendorf, Director of EFC West, discusses water resources and drought in Imperial County, California with Alex Cardenas, Vice President of the Imperial Irrigation District Board of Directors representing Division 1 in Imperial County California.
- [Becoming an Effective Utility Manager](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/becoming-an-effective-utility-manager/) - This podcast discusses the Effective Utility Management framework as a tool to improve management capacity from the perspective of an operator moving into management.
- [Understanding the Clean Water Act](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/understanding-the-clean-water-act/) - This podcast provides an overview of the Clean Water Act, the main provisions, history, and environmental benefits.
- [Small Water Systems: Ensuring a Safe Water Supply through Sanitary Surveys](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/small-water-systems-ensuring-a-safe-water-supply-through-sanitary-surveys/) - This podcast describes what a sanitary survey is, its elements, and how conducting these surveys help protect the water supply from pollution sources.
- [Benefits of a Green Infrastructure Program](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/benefits-of-a-green-infrastructure-program-2/) - This podcast episode from the Southwest Environmental Finance Center discusses the benefits of developing a green infrastructure initiative and key components in developing a program.
- [The Case for Rural and Small-Scale Green Infrastructure: A Conversation with Susannah Drake](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/the-case-for-rural-and-small-scale-green-infrastructure-a-conversation-with-susannah-drake/) - This is the first of three episodes in an EFCN podcast series about green infrastructure. Susannah Drake, founding principal of DLAND studio in Brooklyn, NY (which has recently merged with Sasaki Associates), discusses why green infrastructure, though it is commonly only associated with urban areas, is a critical part of thinking about the future of
- [Wastewater Nutrients Process Control Testing Series: Phosphorus](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/wastewater-nutrients-process-control-testing-series-phosphorus/) - Senior Program Manager at Wichita State University, Nicholas Willis shares information regarding process control testing for phosphorus in wastewater treatment plants. Find the other videos in the Wastewater Nutrients Process Control series here: Wastewater Nutrients Process Control Testing Series: Ammonia https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fveez... Wastewater Nutrients Process Control Testing Series: Nitrates https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qCLQM...
- [Overcoming the ‘Yuck’ Factor: Shaping Public Perception of Potable Reuse](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/overcoming-the-yuck-factor-shaping-public-perception-of-potable-reuse/) - If someone asked you to drink reclaimed wastewater, what would you say? What if they asked you to drink purified water? Clearly the latter sounds more appealing, but both these terms are often used to talk about the same thing: wastewater from homes and businesses that goes through a long list of advanced treatments until
- [Requests for Proposals (RFPs): When to Dive In and When to Pass on Grants](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/requests-for-proposals-rfps-when-to-dive-in-and-when-to-pass-on-grants/) - Many of us have been there. The Request for Proposals (RFP) drops and immediately the wheels start turning. Do we have a project that fits? If not, can we develop one? Can we do the work for the amount of money available? Do we have the time to write a proposal? The questions never end,
- [Benefits of Wastewater Energy Efficiency Audits](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/benefits-of-wastewater-energy-efficiency-audits/) - In this podcast, we will be looking at energy efficiency for wastewater treatment. Energy used at treatment facilities is a large share of a plant’s operating costs. Assessing those costs and where to make improvements can provide long-term savings for utilities. Operators in New Hampshire are finding ways to drive energy costs down, with the
- [Small Water Systems: Importance of Groundwater Wells and Aquifer Protection](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/small-water-systems-importance-of-groundwater-wells-and-aquifer-protection/) - This podcast describes the function of groundwater wells and the importance of proper operation to protect the groundwater aquifer, an important source of drinking water.
- [Small Water Systems: Drinking Water Sources](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/small-water-systems-drinking-water-sources/) - This podcast describes the various sources of water (i.e., groundwater, surface water, precipitation) that contribute to our drinking water.
- [Small Water Systems: Operator Roles and Responsibilities](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/small-water-systems-operator-roles-and-responsibilities/) - This podcast describes the many roles and responsibilities of a Small Water System Operator.
- [Resiliency Means Business Part 2: Tools and Training Resources, A Guided Tour](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/resiliency-means-business-part-2-tools-and-training-resources-a-guided-tour/) - Part 1 of the Resiliency Means Business Blogs presented some core concepts for building water utility sector resilience, with a few links to further tools and information. Part 2, here, introduces you to our on-line Guided Inventory To Tools for Resilience Management, a resource document. This resource guide recaps key messages from our trainings
- [Community Aqueducts in Puerto Rico](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/community-aqueducts-in-puerto-rico/) - Of the two million people in the U.S. who lack access to clean water, one in eight live in Puerto Rico. This short video, narrated by SU-EFC Program Manager Dr. Kaira Fuentes, talks about the importance of community-led aqueducts in the Caribbean, and what these systems need to continue providing drinking water to residents in
- [Los acueductos comunitarios en Puerto Rico se recuperan del huracán Fiona, pero los desafíos persisten](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/los-acueductos-comunitarios-en-puerto-rico-se-recuperan-del-huracan-fiona-pero-los-desafios-persisten/) - El 18 de septiembre de 2022, el huracán Fiona tocó tierra en Puerto Rico. El huracán de categoría 1, que azotó cinco años después de que los huracanes María e Irma devastaran la isla, provocó inundaciones repentinas y deslizamientos de tierra y dejó a cientos de miles de personas sin electricidad ni suministros de agua
- [Community Aqueducts in Puerto Rico Bounce Back from Hurricane Fiona, but Challenges Remain](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/community-aqueducts-in-puerto-rico-bounce-back-from-hurricane-fiona-but-challenges-remain/) - On September 18, 2022, Hurricane Fiona made landfall in Puerto Rico. The Category 1 Hurricane, which hit five years after Hurricane Maria and Hurricane Irma devastated the island, caused flash floods and landslides and left hundreds of thousands of people without power or reliable water supplies. In the weeks following Hurricane Fiona, community-led aqueducts in
- [Small Systems with Big Financial Goals: Tools and Strategies for Accessing Funding](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/small-systems-with-big-financial-goals-tools-and-strategies-for-accessing-funding/) - With the holidays right around the corner, water and wastewater utilities are once again thinking to the new year and needed capital improvement projects on the horizon. Luckily there is an unprecedented amount of funding from the federal government to support water, wastewater and stormwater infrastructure investments for small systems. Bipartisan Infrastructure Law –
- [Implementing Energy Efficiency Audit Findings Reduces Costs and Carbon Emissions and Provides Operational Efficiency and Sustainability](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/implementing-energy-efficiency-audit-findings/) - In this blog, we are talking with Sharon Nall of the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services (DES) where she oversees the Planning, Protection and Assistance Section within the Wastewater Engineering Bureau. Our discussion focuses on the state’s Wastewater Treatment Facility Energy Efficiency program and how it has reduced costs and carbon emissions at small
- [Climate Resiliency: The Challenges of a Future With Less Snow](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/climate-resiliency-the-challenges-of-a-future-with-less-snow/) - Water from snow is a crucial resource for many communities. Unfortunately, climate change is causing snow resources to rapidly change. In this podcast from the Southwest Environmental Finance Center, we discuss why water from snow is so important, how it's changing, and what this means for small systems. We touch on existing resources and new
- [Why Emergency Response Planning Is Necessary for Your Utility](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/benefits-of-a-green-infrastructure-program/) - In this podcast from Wichita State University, we discuss why emergency response planning is necessary and the three areas of emergency response that your utility can being to brainstorm to jump start your emergency response planning efforts.
- [Community Aqueducts in Puerto Rico: Challenges to Managing Drinking Water Systems in the Caribbean (in Spanish)](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/community-aqueducts-in-puerto-rico-challenges-to-managing-drinking-water-systems-in-the-caribbean-in-spanish/) - Español: En este podcast en español, escuche una conversación entre Isabel McCullough Valentin, estudiante de la SUNY Colegio de Ciencias Ambientales y Forestales y la Dra. Kaira Fuentes, Gerente del Programa del Caribe en el Centro de Financiamiento Ambientales de la Universidad de Syracuse. La Dra. Fuentes comparte su experiencia trabajando con líderes comunitarios en
- [Interview with Jill Sherman Warne, Executive Director of the Native American Environmental Protection Coalition and Tribal Council Member of the Hoopa Valley Tribe](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/interview-with-jill-sherman-warne/) - In this podcast Sarah Diefendorf, Director of EFC West, and Jill Sherman Warne discuss the history of the Hoopa Tribe in California and their relationship with water.
- [Resiliency Means Business - Part 1: A Broad Approach to Safety and Robust Service Reliability](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/resiliency-means-business-part-1/) - Resiliency is a popular term in the news today, from individual wellness to the fate of the planet. What does it mean for water utilities? This is a brief overview of the concept, practices, and regulations around resilience as it is relevant to water and wastewater utilities. Resilience and emergency planning are closely related. But
- [Navigating the SRF Funding Process](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/navigating-the-srf-funding-process/) - This podcast helps water and wastewater utilities understand how to obtain and manage project funding through their State Revolving Fund Program. Listen to more water system management podcasts by EFCN. Visit the EFCN resource library for more related content.
- [Navigating the USDA Funding Process](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/navigating-the-usda-funding-process/) - This podcast helps water and wastewater utilities understand how to obtain and manage project funding through USDA Rural Development funding programs. Listen to more water system management podcasts by EFCN. Visit the EFCN resource library for more related content.
- [The Changing Landscape of Social Justice in the Water Sector](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/the-changing-landscape-of-social-justice-in-the-water-sector/) - What is water equity? What is environmental justice? These concepts are inextricably linked, and are used by government agencies, water sector groups, and environmental justice advocates in subtly different ways. These terms did not originate in a vacuum; the environmental justice movement originated in the 1950s, championed by Black Americans and evolving alongside the civil
- [Overview of the Creating Resilient Water Utilities (CRWU) Initiative](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/overview-of-the-crwu-initiative/) - EPA's Creating Resilient Water Utilities (CRWU) initiative provides drinking water, wastewater, and stormwater (water sector) utilities with practical tools, training, and technical assistance needed to increase resilience to climate change. CRWU helps utilities and stakeholders by promoting a clear understanding of climate change and helps to identify potential long-term adaptation options for decision-making related to
- [Wastewater Infrastructure Costs: More Than Just Construction](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/wastewater-infrastructure-costs-more-than-just-construction/) - Often, when we think about wastewater infrastructure costs we only think about the costs incurred during the construction phase. In this podcast episode, Dawn Nall, research engineer for the Environmental Finance Center with expertise in wastewater management, explains what else is included in wastewater infrastructure cost, and why customers should know about them.
- [Small Water Systems Governance and the Ability to Secure Funding - Part 1](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/small-water-systems-governance-and-the-ability-to-secure-funding-part-1/) - In part 1 of this podcast on small water system governance and the ability to secure funding, Southwest EFC Research Scientist Tucker Colvin interviews Dr. Ben Warner, Dr. joni palmer, and Univeristy of New Mexico PhD student Ria Mukerji. Join them as they discuss whose responsibility is it to provide safe drinking water to residents,
- [Small Water Systems Governance and the Ability to Secure Funding - Part 2](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/small-water-systems-governance-and-the-ability-to-secure-funding-part-2/) - In part 1 of this podcast on small water system governance and the ability to secure funding, Southwest EFC Research Scientist Tucker Colvin interviews Dr. Ben Warner, Dr. joni palmer, and Univeristy of New Mexico PhD student Ria Mukerji. Join them as they discuss environmental justice, Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) money, and strategies and recommendations
- [Digging Deep into Water Inequity with DigDeep Founder George McGraw](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/digging-deep-into-water-inequity-with-digdeep-founder-george-mcgraw/) - Many of us in the United States have come to expect clean running water and indoor plumping. While this convenience is often viewed as universal, over 2 million Americans today still do not share that luxury. Though analysis of water access inequity often focuses overseas, DigDeep and founder George McGraw quickly realized the problem occurs
- [Water Resilience for Small Communities](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/water-resilience-for-small-communities-2/) - Date: April 14, 2022 Description: When it comes to water resilience, success stories sometimes seem confined to bigger cities. This session, from the 2022 Tap Into Resilience Summit, focuses on how water resilience strategies can be scaled down so they are achievable by small drinking water and wastewater systems. The panelists frame the unique resilience challenges
- [Implementing a Customer Assistance Program for a Small System](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/implementing-a-customer-assistance-program-for-a-small-system/) - Customer Assistance Programs (CAPs) are often offered as a solution to providing water to low-income customers as well as meeting the revenue requirement of a utility. With the need to invest in aging infrastructure and the increasing costs of those investments, many utilities need to increase revenue by raising rates. Concerns about the ability of
- [Wastewater Rates and Affordability](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/wastewater-rates-and-affordability/) - Setting the rates for wastewater services is an exercise that should be done when the annual budget is prepared. The rates need to generate sufficient revenue to cover operation and maintenance (O&M), repair and replacement (R&R), principal and interest payments for debt service, depreciation, and reserves. The rate set for services is generally
- [Video: Signs of a Failing Septic System](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/video-signs-of-a-failing-septic-system/) - Don't wait until wastewater backs up into the house to figure out you have septic system problems. Watch this video and learn the warning signs of a failing septic system so you can be proactive with the problem!
- [Getting to the Source: Stormwater Management Education](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/getting-to-the-source-stormwater-management-education/) - When I meet with any community to discuss water quality issues, especially a group that is reluctant to implement stormwater Best Management Practices (BMPs), the first question I always ask is, “Do you know where your drinking water comes from?” It never ceases to amaze me how many people think that drinking water comes “from
- [Understanding Wastewater Reuse for Small Systems](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/understanding-wastewater-reuse-for-small-systems/) - Wastewater reuse, or reclamation, is the process of adequately treating wastewater – whether from a toilet, laundry machine, or a sink – to be reused for a specific purpose. For many people, the thought of reusing wastewater might sound unappealing, but the benefits for a community can be significant. Small wastewater systems can produce up
- [Cutting Through the Sludge:  A Regional Approach to Supporting Small Water and Wastewater Systems](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/cutting-through-the-sludge-a-regional-approach-to-supporting-small-water-and-wastewater-systems/) - Many rural communities across the country have long faced demographic challenges as the changing economy has continued to push residents towards jobs in urban and suburban centers. The remote work revolution and the reconsideration of living in rural areas ushered in by the COVID-19 pandemic has been seen by many rural leaders as a once-in-a-lifetime
- [Social Media Marketing for Water and Wastewater Systems: Getting Started](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/social-media-marketing-for-water-and-wastewater-systems-getting-started/) - Here in the digital age, approximately 7 out of 10 Americans use social media. We connect with our friends, co-workers, as well as businesses or services. If water and wastewater utilities dial in to this unique opportunity of having the digital world at their fingertips, they can build trust, decrease complaints, and grow public support
- [Assessing and Building the Technical, Managerial, and Financial Capacity of Your Wastewater Utility](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/assessing-and-building-the-technical-managerial-and-financial-capacity-of-your-wastewater-utility/) - Did you know there are three strategies that can help any wastewater utility improve its capacity? The US Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) expresses the capacity of a utility in terms of technical, managerial, and financial—or TMF—capacities that work together to build overall capacity and provide a way to analyze strengths and weaknesses. Let’s look at
- [Conducting a Budget Stress Test to Determine Your Level of Financial Resiliency](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/conducting-a-budget-stress-test-to-determine-your-level-of-financial-resiliency/) - Budgeting, long-term financial planning, and financial resiliency are even more critical as financial, economic, and climate events continue to make headlines. Planning for uncertainty, and developing a long term financial strategy is important to ensure we can provide services to our communities. We essentially need to become more resilient, but many face the question,
- [How Small Water Systems Can Understand their Target Audience for Better Outreach](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/how-small-water-systems-can-understand-their-target-audience-for-better-outreach/) - Every water system communicates with stakeholders. Would you like to see your community value water more? Perhaps you are raising your rates? Or are you seeking support from local leaders such as elected officials or agency leaders for overdue infrastructure projects? No matter what your communication goals—increasing awareness, eliciting support, or changing people’s behavior—your chance
- [The Integrated Asset Management Framework](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/the-integrated-asset-management-framework/) - This podcast from the Southwest Environmental Finance Center discusses the new online Integrated Asset Management Framework, which blends green assets into the existing gray asset management framework. The framework is for water, wastewater, and stormwater systems of any size that are interested in implementing an asset management practice.
- [Wastewater Operations Optimization](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/wastewater-operations-optimization/) - This podcast from the Southwest Environmental Finance Center provides examples in operations optimization, including sewer cleaning and televising, and data integrity and visualization.
- [GIS Tools for Small Water Systems](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/gis-tools-for-small-water-systems/) - This podcast from Michigan Technological University discusses the benefits of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) for small water systems, affordable tools systems can use, and how systems can get started with GIS.
- [GIS: A Missing Puzzle Piece in Asset Management](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/gis-a-missing-puzzle-piece-in-asset-management/) - Asset management is a smart practice that can save money and reduce financial surprises capable of grinding wastewater services to a halt. In order to implement asset management, systems must be able to track and assess data from many different parts of their operations and maintenance practices. For many systems, asset management data can be
- [Assessing Flood Risk for Small Water Systems Using GIS](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/assessing-flood-risk-for-small-water-systems-using-gis/) - For those of us living in the Western U.S., the news is dominated by stories that describe the effects of water scarcity and how climate change is making the future of many water sources uncertain. Yet, drought is not the only potential hazard that climate change is contributing to. For instance, on October 24, 2021,
- [QGIS for Water Utility Management Getting Started with GIS for Free](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/qgis-for-water-utility-management-getting-started-with-gis-for-free/)
- [GIS Field Data Collection using Trimble GPS Unit](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/gis-field-data-collection-using-trimble-gps-unit/) - Geographic Information Systems (GIS) are essential for utility management applications ranging from permit compliance to asset management. A first step in developing a GIS system is to determine what information to gather and how that data will be stored before collecting data on the locations of system assets in the field. This webinar provides an
- [Are You a New Home Buyer Wondering How Your Septic Tank Works? Check Out This Short Video!](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/are-you-a-new-home-buyer-wondering-how-your-septic-tank-works-check-out-this-short-video/) - Are you a new home buyer wondering how your septic tank works? Check out this short video from the Mississippi State University Extension Service! The Mississippi Well Owner Network, a program of the Mississippi State University Extension Service, offers a variety of publications, workshops, and water sampling programs for the state’s rural residents. Most well owners also have on-site wastewater
- [Supporting Resilient Water Systems: Pennyrile ADD Builds Institutional Knowledge](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/supporting-resilient-water-systems-pennyrile-add-builds-institutional-knowledge/) - The Challenge of Retaining Institutional Knowledge at Small Water Systems An important but often overlooked management problem for small organizations is retaining institutional knowledge through the years. This concept refers to the collection of unwritten or decentralized information accumulated over time about an organization’s processes, assets, history, and relationships. While this kind of loss is
- [Supporting Resilient Water Systems: Lumber River COG’s Teaching Tuesdays Education Series](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/supporting-resilient-water-systems-lumber-river-cogs-teaching-tuesdays-education-series/) - RDOs and Water Systems: A Collaborative Effort In much the same way that water systems consist of many interconnected parts all working together in support of the whole, a collaborative network of organizations and partners must also be in place to ensure that the system remains viable, efficient, and well-maintained. This network often includes
- [Partnering to Improve Water Systems and Promote Economic Development – a Kentucky Case Study](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/partnering-to-improve-water-systems-and-promote-economic-development/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”] Staff working at small water systems know that the key to stretching limited funding is to live out the motto ‘do less with more.’ Such systems typically will have staff who are individually tasked with
- [EFCN Resources 101](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/efcn-resources-101/) - Water and wastewater systems are often faced with tricky financial problems that do not have clear-cut solutions. Luckily, the Environmental Finance Center Network (EFCN) is here to help! The EFCN is a group of university and non-profit based organizations that work with government agencies, public and private sector environmental groups, and water and wastewater systems
- [Community Affordability: Balancing community and utility needs](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/community-affordability-balancing-community-and-utility-needs/) - The impact of utility rates on community members is a challenge that water and wastewater utilities across the nation face. It is especially challenging for small systems. Join the Environmental Finance Centers from Wichita State University, University of New Mexico/Southwest, and University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill for a series that considers community affordability,
- [Intermediate Asset Management Series: Level of Service](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/intermediate-asset-management-series-level-of-service/) - Asset Management is a process that allows a water or wastewater system to better manage its assets and improve the workday for its employees. This webinar focuses on levels of service, including setting goals, developing a mission statement, and tracking progress.
- [Intermediate Asset Management Series: Asset Inventory and Mapping](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/intermediate-asset-management-series-asset-inventory-and-mapping/) - Asset Management is a process that allows a water or wastewater system to better manage its assets and improve the workday for its employees. This webinar focuses on mapping techniques and inventory development.
- [Intermediate Asset Management Series: Criticality](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/intermediate-asset-management-series-criticality/) - Asset Management is a process that allows a water or wastewater system to better manage its assets and improve the workday for its employees. This webinar focuses on factors impacting Criticality and how to analyze and visualize Criticality. Experts discussed assigning numerical values for POF and COF and how to calculate risk, what can a
- [Intermediate Asset Management Series: Life Cycle Costing](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/intermediate-asset-management-series-life-cycle-costing/) - Asset Management is a process that allows a water or wastewater system to better manage its assets and improve the workday for its employees. It helps improve efficiency and reduce unplanned, reactionary activities in favor of more planned, proactive work. This webinar provides an introduction to life cycle costing, and discusses how it can be
- [Florida Water and Wastewater Rates Dashboard Webinar](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/florida-water-and-wastewater-rates-dashboard-webinar-2/)
- [Program Funding Challenges & Opportunities: Pursuing Sustainable Funding Streams and Revenues](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/program-funding-challenges-opportunities-pursuing-sustainable-funding-streams-and-revenues/) - Nevada’s Department of Environmental Protection and the Environmental Finance Center at California State University, Sacramento joined EFCN for a series of webinars focused on funding and financing strategies and opportunities for Nevada water services. The webinars covered strategies and opportunities for all areas of the water sector – drinking water, wastewater, watershed planning, and stormwater
- [Benchmarking Rates and Financial Performance including a Demo of the Ohio Water and Wastewater Rates](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/benchmarking-rates-and-financial-performance-including-a-demo-of-the-ohio-water-and-wastewater-rates/)
- [Small Systems Web Meeting for State Officials](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/small-systems-web-meeting-for-state-officials/)
- [Water System Financial Management - California](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/water-system-financial-management-california/)
- [Implementing a Bill Payment Assistance Program](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/implementing-a-bill-payment-assistance-program/) - In this 1-hour webinar, EFC at UNC provided an overview of different types of bill assistance programs and provide considerations for how to set up, fund, and market your program. This webinar also included information about COVID-related assistance as well.
- [Project Funding Challenges & Opportunities: Developing Projects and Preparing to Obtain Funding](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/project-funding-challenges-opportunities-developing-projects-and-preparing-to-obtain-funding/) - Nevada’s Department of Environmental Protection and the Environmental Finance Center at California State University, Sacramento joined EFCN for a series of webinars focused on funding and financing strategies and opportunities for Nevada water services. The webinars covered strategies and opportunities for all areas of the water sector – drinking water, wastewater, watershed planning, and stormwater
- [WA Small Water Systems Webinar | Day 2](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/wa-small-water-systems-webinar-day-2/) - This webinar will be a follow up to the first webinar and allow a more in-depth discussion of issues that are on the minds of water utility personnel across Washington as they address the tremendous financial considerations of the pandemic. While we expect that many utilities may have questions related to alternatives to water shut-offs
- [Overview of the Creating Resilient Water Utilities (CRWU) Initiative](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/overview-of-the-creating-resilient-water-utilities-crwu-initiative/)
- [Mid-Atlantic State Webinar | Assessing the Affordability of Water Rates](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/mid-atlantic-state-webinar-assessing-the-affordability-of-water-rates/) - Drinking water utilities are often expected to deliver high-quality service while keeping rates low. This can result in under-investment in water infrastructure or an inability to meet public health and environmental standards. However, rate increases may place a significant burden on lower-income households in a water system’s service area. How can utilities effectively balance service and
- [Financial Management for Board Members, Local Elected Officials, and System Owners](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/financial-management-for-board-members-local-elected-officials-and-system-owners/)
- [Program Funding Challenges & Opportunities Understanding Program Costs and Funding Options](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/program-funding-challenges-opportunities-understanding-program-costs-and-funding-options/) - Nevada’s Department of Environmental Protection and the Environmental Finance Center at California State University, Sacramento joined EFCN for a series of webinars focused on funding and financing strategies and opportunities for Nevada water services. The webinars covered strategies and opportunities for all areas of the water sector – drinking water, wastewater, watershed planning, and stormwater
- [Workforce Planning for Alabama Water Systems](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/workforce-planning-for-alabama-water-systems/) - Small water systems in Alabama, and across the country, are struggling to recruit and keep experienced staff. What will happen when your utility’s long-term operator or manager retires? Who knows all that they know? This webinar will focus on succession planning, operator recruitment, embracing multiple generations in the workplace, and staff retention strategies. We will
- [How Do Your Water Rates Compare? Introducing the Missouri Regulated Water Rates Dashboard](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/how-do-your-water-rates-compare-introducing-the-missouri-regulated-water-rates-dashboard/) - Tune in for a no-cost, 60-minute, interactive webinar to learn about the Missouri Regulated Water Rates Dashboard, as well as information about benchmarks for sustainable rates and finances for your system. This Dashboard is the first to feature rates only from regulated water utilities using data provided by the Missouri Public Services Commission. Dashboard Features:
- [Lift Station Operation & Maintenance](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/lift-station-operation-maintenance/) - This webinar provided an overview of operation and maintenance required for wastewater lift stations. Topics covered in this webinar include design parameters, basic operation and maintenance tasks, common problems and solutions, and emergency procedures that operators in small systems can begin using.
- [Water Financing Strategies for New York State Communities](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/water-financing-strategies-for-new-york-state-communities/)
- [Revenue and Funding Programs for Small Systems in Connecticut](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/revenue-and-funding-programs-for-small-systems-in-connecticut/) - As systems in Connecticut begin to implement asset management plans, they will need revenue sufficient to cover the cost of running the water system today and into the future. This webinar will discuss how rates can be structured to allow systems to pay for the cost of operations and for capital improvements. The webinar will
- [Illinois Webinar Series: Water Financial Management](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/illinois-webinar-series-water-financial-management/)
- [Using Rebates to Reduce Water System Energy Costs](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/using-rebates-to-reduce-water-system-energy-costs/) - Reducing energy costs is one of the few options available to water systems to decrease costs. Energy costs represent the largest controllable cost of providing water services and make up as much as 40 percent of operating costs. Not only that, experts project that energy costs will increase 20 percent over the next 15 years.
- [How Do Your Water Rates Compare? Introducing the Virginia Water Rates Dashboard](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/how-do-your-water-rates-compare-introducing-the-virginia-water-rates-dashboard/) - Tune in for a no-cost, 60-minute, interactive webinar to learn about the online Virginia Water and Wastewater Rates Dashboard and information about benchmarks for sustainable rates and finances for your system. The Dashboard features rates and one-time fee data from the 2018 survey conducted by Draper Aden Associates. Dashboard Features: Four benchmarking dials (monthly bill
- [Water System Rate Setting for California Board Members, Local Elected Officials, and System Owners](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/water-system-rate-setting-for-california-board-members-local-elected-officials-and-system-owners/)
- [Empathy and the Impact of Utility Rates on Customers](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/empathy-and-the-impact-of-utility-rates-on-customers/) - Finding it hard to balance your utilities' operational needs with the financial capacity of your customers? Understanding households' expenses, including utility bills, can provide insight into how and when to adjust rates, develop assistance programs, and invest in infrastructure. Empathy for community members allows us to consider options for the low-income, underrepresented, and underserved in
- [Innovations in Small Water Systems Barriers and Case Studies from Appalachia](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/innovations-in-small-water-systems-barriers-and-case-studies-from-appalachia/)
- [The Power of Partnership Sharing Resources with Neighboring Systems](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/the-power-of-partnership-sharing-resources-with-neighboring-systems/) - Running a small system can be challenging. Along with meeting regulatory obligations and satisfying customer expectations, you may have issues with aging infrastructure, lack of personnel, and limited financial resources. Furthermore, small systems often cost more to operate per capita than large systems because of the economy of scale. This can further complicate operations. One
- [Project Funding Challenges & Opportunities: Applying for Specific Funding Sources](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/project-funding-challenges-opportunities-applying-for-specific-funding-sources/) - Nevada’s Department of Environmental Protection and the Environmental Finance Center at California State University, Sacramento joined EFCN for a series of webinars focused on funding and financing strategies and opportunities for Nevada water services. The webinars covered strategies and opportunities for all areas of the water sector – drinking water, wastewater, watershed planning, and stormwater
- [Water Loss Series for Small Water Systems: Billing Data in Water Auditing](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/water-loss-series-for-small-water-systems-billing-data-in-water-auditing/) - Join experts from the Southwest Environmental Finance Center for a no-cost webinar series on Water Loss. This series shows small water systems why and how to complete a water audit, and provides guidance on using the audit results to further water loss control within their utilities. Accurate billing data is critical to developing an accurate
- [Grant Writing 101](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/grant-writing-101-2/) - Webinar on the basics of grant writing.
- [Understanding the Root Cause of a Problem at Your Water System](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/understanding-the-root-cause-of-a-problem-at-your-water-system/)
- [Washington Webinar Series | Day 1](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/washington-webinar-series-day-1/) - This webinar will provide an overview of the competing priorities of the water utility: serve all customers continuously and provide financial sustainability amid this crisis and beyond. We will then discuss alternative approaches to water shut offs and describe various ways that customers can be assisted, from the less direct approaches such as rate structures
- [Ready to Work: Creating a Competency Based Credential for the Water Sector](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/ready-to-work-creating-a-competency-based-credential-for-the-water-sector/) - A skilled workforce is the core of effective water operations. Small water systems often hire new operators who must learn a variety of workplace competencies and technical skills. A credentialing process built on standards-based competencies can prepare new operators to meet the demands of small water systems. This webinar will provide a framework for developing
- [A Unique Opportunity to Ask Your Asset Management Questions](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/a-unique-opportunity-to-ask-your-asset-management-questions/)
- [Leveraging Fish and Wildlife Agency Resources to Benefit Your Water System Trim](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/leveraging-fish-and-wildlife-agency-resources-to-benefit-your-water-system-trim/) - Are you aware of the programs and services that fish and wildlife agencies have that may benefit your water utility? Like you, many fish and wildlife agencies’ programs are designed to maintain or enhance aquatic environments. This webinar shared insights into these programs, as well as tips for how to connect with both federal and
- [Connecting the Dots: Regional Development Organizations and Water Systems](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/connecting-the-dots-regional-development-organizations-and-water-systems/) - Regional Development Organizations (RDOs), known locally as councils of governments, regional planning commissions, economic development districts, and other names, provide various types of assistance to their member communities in a host of service areas. During this webinar, you will hear how RDOs in Texas and Kentucky are working with local municipalities to support water and
- [Jump Starting Long-Term Planning and Setting Financial Targets](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/jump-starting-long-term-planning-and-setting-financial-targets/) - Long-term planning is important to the success of water systems. As the great sage Yogi Berra pointed out, “If you don’t know where you are going, you’ll end up someplace else.” This webinar will cover the key elements of different types of long-term plans, including where to begin when you’re just getting started. We will
- [Funding and Financing Strategies for Integrated Hazard Mitigation and Water Resource Plans](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/funding-and-financing-strategies-for-integrated-hazard-mitigation-and-water-resource-plans/) - In light of increasing development and ever-changing future conditions, increasingly stressed infrastructure, and growing financial pressures, integrating hazard mitigation and water quality-focused resource management is becoming more and more critical to the success of water systems and other public-serving entities. While finance and budgeting are often considered the last step in developing a project or
- [Water Loss Series for Small Water Systems: Developing a Results Oriented Water Loss Control Program](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/water-loss-series-for-small-water-systems-developing-a-results-oriented-water-loss-control-program/) - In this webinar series, experts from the Southwest Environmental Finance Center show small water systems why and how to complete a water audit and provide guidance on using the audit results to further water loss control within their utilities.
- [Meeting Regulations in Connecticut to Improve Your System](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/meeting-regulations-in-connecticut-to-improve-your-system/) - For small systems, Asset Management may seem like a daunting task to add to the day-to-day operations of your utility. However, Asset Management can actually make your job easier. Asset Management applies common sense practices to provide water services and is meant to help you more efficiently run your system. This webinar, the first in
- [Grant Writing 101 for New York State Communities](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/grant-writing-101-for-new-york-state-communities/) - Crafting a more competitive grant application can lead to success. Learn about ways to increase the success rate of your submissions and how best to convey the needs of your community to reviewers in this webinar. Learn how relationship building can support your application as well.
- [Communicating Water to Your Board](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/communicating-water-to-your-board/) - Webinar on how to effectively communicate to your water board.
- [Minnesota | Setting the Right Rates for Your Water System](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/minnesota-setting-the-right-rates-for-your-water-system/) - Rates are the primary way that water systems generate revenue. In this webinar, you will learn about several types of rate structures and how they align with different water system priorities such as full cost recovery and promoting conservation. You will also see how different rate structures and rate levels impact different types of customers.
- [Using Median Household Income Data for Water System Management](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/using-median-household-income-data-for-water-system-management/) - Understand how to determine if your system could benefit from an income survey, What are the benefits, How it could help you develop a stronger capital improvement plan, Gain knowledge on the MHI process, how and when to get started, Who conducts the survey, and who’s going to pay for it.
- [Encouraging Conservation—An In-Depth Look at Non-Pricing Approaches](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/encouraging-conservation-an-in-depth-look-at-non-pricing-approaches/)
- [Integrating Sustainability into Daily Decision Making](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/integrating-sustainability-into-daily-decision-making/) - In light of an ever changing climate, increasingly stressed infrastructure, and growing financial pressures, integrated water management and embedding sustainability into daily practices is becoming more and more important to the success of water systems. In this webinar, we will provide a strategies for integrating sustainability into daily decisions making for water systems and highlight
- [Creating a Water Workforce Pre Apprenticeship](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/creating-a-water-workforce-pre-apprenticeship/) - A skilled workforce is the core of effective water operations. Small water systems often hire new operators who must learn a variety of workplace competencies and technical skills. This webinar will outline steps to build a pathway to apprenticeship through a skills-based pre-apprenticeship program.
- [Managing Disasters Before Disasters Strike](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/managing-disasters-before-disasters-strike/)
- [How to Build Marketing Skills to Gain Support from Water Customers](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/how-to-build-marketing-skills-to-gain-support-from-water-customers/)
- [Ask the Expert Capital Improvement Planning](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/ask-the-expert-capital-improvement-planning/) - This webinar will help you move forward with a capital improvement plan for your utility. “Ask the Expert” webinars are a unique opportunity to ask questions and receive feedback from capital improvement planning professionals or listen to Q&A from others.
- [Consider Regionalization for Small System Sustainability](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/consider-regionalization-for-small-system-sustainability/) - Small systems are finding it harder and harder to achieve the balance between meeting their obligations to provide safe and reliable water and the ever-growing costs to meet these obligations. Considering regionalization needs to be part of the discussion when it comes to sustainability for these systems. But what does regionalization mean for small systems?
- [Water Rates Dashboard for Delaware and Surrounding States](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/water-rates-dashboard-for-delaware-and-surrounding-states/) - Webinar on water rates in Delaware and surrounding areas.
- [Water Loss Series for Small Water Systems: Taking Action to Address Real Losses](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/water-loss-series-for-small-water-systems-taking-action-to-address-real-losses/) - In this webinar series from the Southwest Environmental Finance Center, EFCN experts show small water systems why and how to complete a water audit, and provide guidance on using the audit results to further water loss control within their utilities.
- [Ask the Expert: Developing the Water Workforce](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/ask-the-expert-developing-the-water-workforce/) - What does succession planning mean for small water systems? This 1-hour webinar will include a brief overview of several of the major components of workforce planning, and will focus the remaining time on a facilitated discussion of participant questions with two subject matter experts. Presenters: Tonya Bronleewe, Program Manager – Environmental Finance Center at Wichita
- [Workforce Planning and Water System Collaboration for Minnesota Water Systems](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/workforce-planning-and-water-system-collaboration-for-minnesota-water-systems/) - Though running a small system can be challenging, partnership-building and workforce development strategies can help you identify collaboration opportunities to benefit your small system while also ensuring that you attract and retain a strong internal team. This training focuses on approaches to system collaboration and workforce planning.
- [Mapping: There's More Than One Way to Show Your Data Electronically](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/mapping-theres-more-than-one-way-to-show-your-data-electronically/)
- [Water Loss Series for Small Water Systems: Mapping - Water Loss Control and Asset Management Nexus](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/water-loss-series-for-small-water-systems-mapping-water-loss-control-and-asset-management-nexus/) - In this webinar series from the Southwest Environmental Finance Center, EFCN experts show small water systems why and how to complete a water audit, and provide guidance on using the audit results to further water loss control within their utilities. Water Loss Control and Asset Management go hand-in-hand; data is the common element. This session
- [Improving Financial Reporting for Water Infrastructure Facilities](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/improving-financial-reporting-for-water-infrastructure-facilities/) - Asset Management Case Study from the Government Finance Officers Association.
- [Affordability Considerations for Utility Rate Design and Policies](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/affordability-considerations-for-utility-rate-design-and-policies/) - How can a utility’s rate design and policies around collections promote affordability? In this 1-hour webinar recording, EFCN experts discuss how different rate structures impact customers, how to set rate structures equitable, and how utility policies can help customers who have a hard time paying bills.
- [Regional Finance and Governance Models for Watershed Management](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/regional-finance-and-governance-models-for-watershed-management/) - This webinar will cover opportunities for creatively aggregating funding to be used for watershed Management. We will address questions including: · How can new revenue be generated for watershed management? · How can the revenue be pooled and managed regionally? · How can the revenue be spent to maximize water quality and community benefits? Participants
- [How to Manage Grants](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/how-to-manage-grants/) - Webinar focused on managing different aspects of grants.
- [Dealing with Declining Water Demand and Decreasing Customers Trim](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/dealing-with-declining-water-demand-and-decreasing-customers-trim/) - Many small water systems – particularly in rural areas – are operating in communities with decreasing average customer water use, declining service populations, or have lost or are at risk of losing large commercial/industrial customers that generate much-needed revenues. As water sales decrease over time, revenues decline faster than expenses. This webinar will explore this
- [Are Your Rates Affordable? Understanding Affordability and How to Self Assess Your Rates](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/are-your-rates-affordable-understanding-affordability-and-how-to-self-assess-your-rates/) - As demographic and economic patterns shift, utilities not only face a challenge providing clean and safe water services, but also must grapple with how to price their services affordably. In this 90-minute webinar recording, experts from the Environmental Finance Center Network walk through the basics of affordability, several self-assessment strategies for understanding water rate affordability,
- [Collecting Break Data: Why, How, and What For](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/collecting-break-data-why-how-and-what-for/)
- [Water Utility Operator Certification Basic Water Math](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/water-utility-operator-certification-basic-water-math/) - This webinar is designed to give participants a refresher on basic math concepts that are needed in order to perform more complex water math needed for their certifications and for their job duties. The webinar will provide a look at some of the more important water math problems including: Area, Volume, Pressure, Dosage, Detention Time
- [Understanding Asset Criticality: Reduce Risk and Optimize Operations](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/understanding-asset-criticality-reduce-risk-and-optimize-operations/)
- [Water Loss Auditing Navigating AWWA’s Infrastructure Leakage Index](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/water-loss-auditing-navigating-awwas-infrastructure-leakage-index/) - Using a software program to audit your system’s water loss has many advantages, but only if you know how to use it correctly. In this webinar, you will learn how to successfully use AWWA’s free Water Audit Software to: Assess your system’s real and apparent water losses Learn about different performance indicators such as the
- [Computerized Maintenance Management Software for Water Systems Where to Begin 1](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/computerized-maintenance-management-software-for-water-systems-where-to-begin-1/) - Many businesses, including utilities, use Computerized Maintenance Management Systems (CMMS) or Enterprise Asset Management (EAM) software to help them optimize their operations. The benefits of the software include: Maximizing asset performance, Improving tracking and reporting Reducing costs Improving workflow, Helping with compliance, health, and safety Accessing real-time information. If your utility struggles with any of
- [Get to Know Emerging Drinking Water Contaminants Per and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS)](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/get-to-know-emerging-drinking-water-contaminants-per-and-polyfluoroalkyl-substances-pfas/) - What are PFAS? Why are they important? In this introductory webinar, you will learn how these man-made chemicals came to be and what risks they may pose to your drinking water system. You will learn: Sources of PFAs and their pathway into the environment Risks and challenges PFAS may pose to water systems Differing approaches
- [Leveraging Regional Development Organizations to Support Small Water Systems](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/leveraging-regional-development-organizations-to-support-small-water-systems/) - Regional Development Organizations (RDOs), known locally as councils of governments, regional planning commissions, economic development districts, and other names, provide various types of assistance to their member communities in a host of service areas. During this webinar, you will hear how two RDOs in North Carolina and Nebraska are working with local municipalities to support
- [Risk and Resilience: Assessing Vulnerability for Coastal Communities](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/risk-and-resilience-assessing-vulnerability-for-coastal-communities/)
- [Chlorine Disinfection and CT Calculations for Small Water Systems](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/chlorine-disinfection-and-ct-calculations-for-small-water-systems/) - This webinar was designed to improve understanding of key concepts and mathematical relationships in chlorine disinfection. Attendees engaged in calculating chlorine dosages and feed rates for the three forms of chlorine in order to ensure necessary disinfection is taking place in drinking water. Additionally, attendees learned how to calculate CT values in order to comply
- [Florida Water and Wastewater Rates Dashboard Webinar](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/florida-water-and-wastewater-rates-dashboard-webinar/) - This webinar focuses on Florida's water and wastewater rates dashboard.
- [Preparing for a Sanitary Survey](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/preparing-for-a-sanitary-survey/) - This webinar will provide viewers with an overview of sanitary surveys and how to prepare for one. You will learn the essential elements of a sanitary survey and what things the surveyor will look for at your water system. Additionally, you will have the opportunity to ask specific questions about the sanitary survey process.
- [A Conversation Regarding Coronavirus and How it Might Affect Your Small Water System’s Finances](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/a-conversation-regarding-coronavirus-and-how-it-might-affect-your-small-water-systems-finances/) - Coronavirus has upended all of our lives in a very short period of time, but water utilities are affected in very specific ways. During this “Office Hours” style webinar, you will have an opportunity to voice your questions and concerns to two industry experts. Water personnel must keep working as the continuous provision of water
- [Ask the Expert: Mapping for Water Loss and Asset Management](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/ask-the-expert-mapping-for-water-loss-and-asset-management/) - Utility mapping can assist your system with asset management and water loss reduction if you know how to utilize it correctly. In this “ask-the-expert” style webinar, we answer all your questions about mapping for water loss and asset management. Presenters: James Markham, Research Scientist, Southwest Environmental Finance Center; Luke Andrews, Data Analyst, Southwest Environmental Finance
- [Activated Sludge Process Control Calculations](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/22292-2/) - This webinar recording provides an overview of activated sludge process control concepts. This webinar introduces the mathematical calculations operators will use to monitor and adjust the wastewater treatment process when operating activated sludge plants.
- [Keeping the Water on During and After the COVID-19 Pandemic](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/keeping-the-water-on-during-and-after-the-covid-19-pandemic/) - Due to COVID-19, many water utilities are not shutting the water off for non-payment, as well as waiving late and reconnection fees. Some utilities have made this choice, while others are under moratoriums set by their states. How can utilities continue to operate so that the water stays on to combat COVID-19 through handwashing when
- [Get to Know Emerging Drinking Water Contaminants: PFAs Challenges and Solutions](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/22296-2/) - In this webinar, you will hear from leading industry experts on how water and wastewater systems are addressing the impacts of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). Traditional drinking water treatment for removal of PFAS has revolved around three technologies: granular activated carbon, ion exchange resin, and membrane filtration. This presentation will cover the advantages and
- [Measuring Benefits from Asset Management](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/measuring-benefits-from-asset-management/) - In this webinar, we will discuss the types of benefits that may be accrued to a system from asset management activities, ways of measuring benefits, and provide some specific examples of utilities that have measured benefits and the results they achieved.
- [Blending Source Water Protection Into Asset Management](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/blending-source-water-protection-into-asset-management/) - Protecting the drinking water source is integral part of ensuring public health protection, but it is often difficult to achieve because it is not considered part of the overall operation and management of the water system or because it is a voluntary program. It is important to fully consider the potential threats to the source
- [Must Have Financial Policies for Small Water Systems](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/must-have-financial-policies-for-small-water-systems/) - In this webinar, we glimpsed into the consequences of real life utilities that operated with inadequate or non-existent financial policies and how the situations they faced could be avoided
- [Introducing the New Hampshire Water and Wastewater Rates Dashboard Tool](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/introducing-the-new-hampshire-water-and-wastewater-rates-dashboard-tool/) - This webinar covers New Hampshire's Water and Wastewater rates Dashboard tool.
- [Water Loss Series for Small Water Systems: Importance of Water Auditing](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/22311-2/) - In this webinar series, experts from the Southwest Environmental Finance Center showed small water systems why and how to complete a water audit and provided guidance on using the audit results to further water loss control within their utilities. This 30-minute session explained the big picture of water loss control for small water utilities. A
- [Regional Development Organizations: Supporting Water Infrastructure and Improving Quality of Life](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/regional-development-organizations-supporting-water-infrastructure-and-improving-quality-of-life/)
- [Reducing Water System Costs through Energy Efficiency](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/reducing-water-system-costs-through-energy-efficiency/) - Nearly four percent of the nation’s electricity is consumed by water and wastewater facilities, and industry experts are predicting that energy costs could increase 20 percent by 2035. Water and wastewater treatment costs often consume 50 percent or more of the budget of many small communities. Historically, water and wastewater facilities were designed for peak
- [Water Loss Series for Small Water Systems: Water Loss Control & the Water Audit, Including Version 6](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/water-loss-series-for-small-water-systems-water-loss-control-the-water-audit-including-version-6/) - In this webinar series, experts from the Southwest Environmental Finance Center show small water systems why and how to complete a water audit and provide guidance on using the audit results to further water loss control within their utilities.
- [ARPA Final Rule Updates for Water, Wastewater, and Stormwater Projects](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/arpa-final-rule-updates-for-water-wastewater-and-stormwater-projects/) - In this webinar, experts from the Environmental Finance Center Network provide an overview of the U.S. Treasury’s Final Rule for Local Fiscal Recovery Funds from the American Rescue Plan Act. Participants learned more about the updated guidance provided in the Final Rule and the implications it has for water, wastewater, and stormwater projects.
- [Pricing Water for Conservation—How Different Rate Structures Impact Different Customers](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/pricing-water-for-conservation-how-different-rate-structures-impact-different-customers/) - Water systems have a variety of reasons for wanting to encourage conservation, from environmental benefits to limited supply or treatment capacity. This webinar will explore how water systems can structure rates and price water to encourage conservation and to recover the full cost of providing water service today and into the future. The webinar will
- [Managing Your Water System Under Pressure — New Requirements for Hydropneumatic Tank](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/managing-your-water-system-under-pressure-new-requirements-for-hydropneumatic-tank/) - Public health and employee safety is a priority for all water systems. Recently, Connecticut created new regulations surrounding hydropneumatics pressure tanks to ensure the safety of all individuals and continued water supply service. This webinar will review the new law and discuss factors that can contribute to the failure of this type of tank such
- [Illinois Webinar Series Utility Asset Management 101](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/illinois-webinar-series-utility-asset-management-101/) - Illinois Asset Management Workshop.
- [EFCN Webinar | Ask the Expert Asset Management](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/efcn-webinar-ask-the-expert-asset-management/) - This webinar provided you a chance to ask any questions regarding asset management and its implementation. You also could listen-in to others’ questions and find out the latest in asset management. This webinar is for you regardless of whether you are just getting started or you are a seasoned practitioner. In addition to receiving expertise from the U.S., you will
- [Understanding Harmful Algal Blooms and Water Supply: A Primer for Municipal and Water Utility Staff](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/understanding-harmful-algal-blooms-and-water-supply-a-primer-for-municipal-and-water-utility-staff/)
- [How to Start Your Needed Infrastructure Project](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/how-to-start-your-needed-infrastructure-project/) - Infrastructure upgrades and improvements are a necessary part of operating a small water or wastewater system, but they can often be difficult to get started. In this webinar, you will: * Learn where to look for sources of infrastructure funding, including USDA Rural Development programs and State Revolving Fund programs * Learn how to assemble
- [Options for Small Water Systems Considering Regionalization](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/options-for-small-water-systems-considering-regionalization/) - Communities are increasingly considering regionalized solutions for water system challenges regarding aging infrastructure, contaminated water sources, and capacity needs. This webinar will introduce a couple of regionalization options while providing resources and advice on how to approach your partnership agreements in an effective and beneficial manner.
- [Risk Management for Small Water and Wastewater Systems](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/risk-management-for-small-water-and-wastewater-systems/) - Whether at work or in our day-to-day activities, we are constantly managing risk. These risks originate from various sources and their impacts vary in terms of potential damages. The appropriate path to mitigate risk also varies depending on factors such as availability of resources, risk tolerance, and redundancy. A proactive approach to managing risks result
- [First Steps to an Effective Internship Program at Your Utility Inspiration from the Intern Herself](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/first-steps-to-an-effective-internship-program-at-your-utility-inspiration-from-the-intern-herself/) - Introducing young people to water careers isn’t rocket science, but it does take a little time and effort. Find out how to tap into easy-to-use resources that help you make connections with local schools to set up education and internship programs that will inspire students in your community to want to work at your water
- [Working Together to Protect Your Drinking Water Source](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/working-together-to-protect-your-drinking-water-source/) - Webinar on working together to protect your drinking water sources.
- [Introduction to Lead Service Line Replacement](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/introduction-to-lead-service-line-replacement/) - Webinar on lead service line replacement.
- [Grant Writing 101](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/grant-writing-101/) - In this webinar you will learn the basics of grant writing.
- [Ask the Expert Protecting and Investing in the Water Workforce Through COVID 19 and Beyond](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/ask-the-expert-protecting-and-investing-in-the-water-workforce-through-covid-19-and-beyond/)
- [Water Loss Series for Small Water Systems: Taking Action to Address Apparent Losses](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/water-loss-series-for-small-water-systems-taking-action-to-address-apparent-losses/) - In this webinar series from the Southwest Environmental Finance Center, EFCN experts show small water systems why and how to complete a water audit, and provide guidance on using the audit results to further water loss control within their utilities.
- [Water Resilience for Small Communities](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/water-resilience-for-small-communities/) - This podcast provides processes and tools to communities who are interested in planning for resiliency in their wastewater system.
- [Getting to the Root of Pet Waste in Source Water](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/getting-to-the-root-of-pet-waste-in-source-water/) - Contaminants in a river might result in a simple fix: find the discharge, locate the leak, fix or replace the pipe. However, pollutants in the water can also be an indicator of a much more complex problem. For example, fecal coliform can come from many sources including livestock, pets, wild animals, manure runoff or leaky
- [Signs of a Full Septic Tank](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/signs-of-a-full-septic-tank/) - If you own a home or other structure with a septic tank, you should be aware of the signs of a full septic tank. You should also understand the stages of a full tank: Tank Filled to Normal Level, Sludge Accumulating, and an Over-filled Tank. What do these three terms mean? Filled to the Normal
- [Local workforce development supports water conservation](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/local-workforce-development-supports-water-conservation/) - Dead lawns, timed showers, and low-flush toilets are what most people think of when they hear the words water conservation. Most of the public discourse around saving water places the burden on consumers and their water use habits. However, as severe drought grips most of the western US and drinking water sources everywhere are threatened
- [The EPA's WaterSense Program: Free Conservation Resources for Small Utilities](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/the-epas-watersense-program-free-conservation-resources-for-small-utilities/) - Join us for a discussion of how small (and large) water systems can leverage the EPS's free WaterSense Promotional Partner program to encourage water conservation and efficiency in their communities. We cover what WaterSense is, available resources, and how to get started. Listen to more water system management podcasts by EFCN. Visit the EFCN resource
- [Multiple Options for Small Drinking Water System Partnerships](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/multiple-options-for-small-drinking-water-system-partnerships/) - Drinking water systems of all sizes can benefit from partnering with other water systems in many ways. Small drinking water systems in particular are most able to benefit from partnerships because of the issues they face with economies of scale, access to capital, and use of trained operators. Physical interconnections between systems—pipes that bring water regularly, periodically, or during emergencies from one water system to another—are perhaps what most people think about when they hear “water system partnerships.” Systems interested in physical interconnections should ensure that the contract governing the interconnection is comprehensive, and many small drinking water systems have used physical interconnections to help bring down their cost of service.
- [Water Utilities and Land Trusts: A Match Made in Heaven?](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/water-utilities-and-land-trusts-a-match-made-in-heaven/) - There aren’t many organizations wondering what to do with all of their excess resources. “Gee, we just don’t know how to spend all of this extra money or where to assign all of these employees that just don’t have enough to do” is not a sentiment commonly heard in meeting rooms or staff meetings at
- [RDOs: Supporting Water Infrastructure and Improving Quality of Life](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/rdos-supporting-water-infrastructure-and-improving-quality-of-life/) - This blog post is a condensed version of a more detailed article, available here. Every day, regional development organizations (RDOs) are working to improve the lives of residents in communities across the country. Known locally as councils of governments, regional planning commissions, economic development districts, and other names, RDOs provide various types of support to
- [Fish and Wildlife Agencies: Are You Missing Out?](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/fish-and-wildlife-agencies-are-you-missing-out/) - Photo by Markus Spiske temporausch.com from Pexels Is your utility taking full advantage of partnerships with your local fish and wildlife agencies? Are you missing out? Enhanced watershed pollution control, reduced chemical treatment costs, and improved water quality are just some of the benefits that may be achieved by partnering with these agencies and
- [Benefits of Joining Water and Wastewater Agency Response Networks (WARNs)](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/benefits-of-joining-water-and-wastewater-agency-response-networks-warns/) - According to EPA, Water and Wastewater Agency Response Networks (WARNs) are comprised of “utilities helping utilities” within a state respond to and recover from emergencies by sharing resources with one another. WARNs are governed by a common mutual aid agreement. The WARN agreement allows utilities to share resources in an expedited way, compared to other mechanisms that may require a
- [Looking at the Big Picture: An Interview with Priscilla Lucero, Executive Director of the Southwest New Mexico COG](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/looking-at-the-big-picture-an-interview-with-priscilla-lucero-executive-director-of-the-southwest-new-mexico-cog/) - Regional development organizations (RDOs) serve communities of all sizes across the country in a variety of ways to enhance planning, economic development, infrastructure, social services, and much more. These public-based entities play an invaluable role in fostering intergovernmental collaboration among federal, state, and local officials and deliver and manage various programs. For rural places, in
- [Toxic Water: Our Responsibility](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/toxic-water-responsibility/) - “4 million Americans could be drinking toxic water and would never know” headlined USA Today on December 15th, 2016. There is no question that lead in drinking water is a major concern and that making drinking water safe for everyone should be a paramount concern. Much of the blame for the “toxic water” was laid
- [What Funds Are Flowing Out of the Infrastructure Bill for Small System Water and Wastewater Projects?](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/what-funds-are-flowing-out-of-the-infrastructure-bill-for-small-system-water-and-wastewater-projects/) - The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) was signed into law on November 15, 2021. This legislation includes $50 billion for water/wastewater infrastructure, distributed over 5 years, and the allocations per state were released in early December. There are some great overviews regarding the IIJA here, here, or here, and one could spend hours reading
- [The Infrastructure Financing Process for Wastewater Systems](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/the-infrastructure-financing-process-for-wastewater-systems/) - This podcast covers financing options available to wastewater systems and provides a thorough discussion about the process that utilities will engage in when financing infrastructure projects. Listen to more water system management podcasts by EFCN. Visit the EFCN resource library for more related content.
- [Establishing and Applying Levels of Service](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/establishing-and-applying-levels-of-service/) - This podcast makes the connection between customer service levels, asset prioritization, and operation & maintenance activities. Listen to more water system management podcasts by EFCN. Visit the EFCN resource library for more related content.
- [Lift Station Operation and Maintenance](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/lift-station-operation-and-maintenance/) - Lift stations are installed at low points in the collection system where continued gravity flow is not possible or practical. A high level of reliability is required for lift stations because failures can result in sanitary sewer overflows of raw wastewater leading to potential compliance problems while threatening public health and the environment. In
- [Wastewater System Resilience: Tips to get started](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/wastewater-system-resilience-tips-to-get-started/) - The Challenge Small communities that manage their own wastewater systems face significant barriers to building and maintaining effective treatment services. They are more likely to be economically disadvantaged than their larger, more urban counterparts and may lack the staff and expertise to address aging infrastructure. While larger communities may have more resources to secure funding,
- [Apply for the New Small Systems Cohort Learning Program Today!](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/apply-for-the-new-small-systems-cohort-learning-program-today/) - Are you ready for online trainings that are more interactive? Do you learn better in a group of peers tackling the same challenges as you? Are you interested in meeting water professionals from outside your organization? If yes, then the Small Systems Cohort Learning Program is for you! The Small Systems Cohort Learning Program is
- [Reserve Funds – Expect the Unexpected](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/reserve-funds-expect-the-unexpected/) - The past few years of the global COVID-19 pandemic have certainly had an impact on all sectors of society, including water and wastewater utilities. An early 2020 report by Raftelis and the American Water Works Association (AWWA) projected that drinking water utilities were at risk of losing $13.9 billion in revenues due to the pandemic
- [What's the SCAP? Asset management with the Small Community Assistance Planning tool](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/whats-the-scap-asset-management-with-the-small-community-assistance-planning-tool/) - Do you want to leave a legacy that will benefit your community for decades to come? For most of us, the answer is, “Yes!” And, like most of us, you may not have an idea on how you are going to do that. If you are stumped, here is a possibility. Use the Small Community
- [Key Financial Benchmarks for Water Systems: Conservation Signal](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/key-financial-benchmarks-for-water-systems-conservation-signal/) - At our workshops and through our discussions with water systems during technical assistance work, many water systems, in particular small systems, ask what seems like a simple question: “Are our rates right?” I suspect our initial answer is somewhat unsatisfying: “It depends.” Even when rates are sufficient to generate the revenues needed for the utility, whether or
- [Trends in EPA Violations in Water Systems](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/trends-epa-violations-water-systems/) - Here at the Environmental Finance Center, we work with water systems across the country to help them improve their financial and managerial capacity. While there are many reasons why it is important for water systems to have sound management and financial practices, one very important reason is that it can help water systems meet regulatory
- [Tips and Takeaways: Applying for NC Water and Wastewater Funding Programs](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tips-takeaways-applying-nc-water-wastewater-funding-programs/) - Attention all North Carolinian water and wastewater systems: the State Water Infrastructure Authority announced that $168.5 million in water and wastewater funding will be available this upcoming fall. In response to this announcement, the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality: Division of Water Infrastructure held application-training workshops across the state of North Carolina in August. Here are some tips
- [Top Five Small Town Websites and Tips to Improve Your Own](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/top-five-small-town-websites-tips-improve/) - For many small towns, websites are the main avenue of communication with residents. At the Environmental Finance Center at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, we use town websites to find contact information, water rates, and link towns around the United States to our resources, such as our water rates dashboards. The North Carolina
- [Strengthening Utilities Through Consolidation: The Financial Impact](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/strengthening-utilities-through-consolidation-the-financial-impact/) - A synthesis of the financial implications of consolidating water utilities based on the experience of eight communities. The US Water Alliance and the UNC Environmental Finance Center are committed to advancing fact-based, common-ground solutions to our nation’s most pressing water challenges. Currently, the water sector is extremely diffuse. There are tens of thousands of water
- [Getting Back to Basics on Cyber Security: Resources Every Utility Should Know About](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/getting-back-to-basics-on-cyber-security-2/) - What are cyber attacks and how do they threaten our water systems? According to the American Water Works Association (AWWA), cybercrime costs more than $1.1 million and impacts more than 1,800 people every 60 seconds. To make things worse, both the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) have recently confirmed that cybercriminals are
- [Use WaterSense to Promote Conservation In Your Community](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/use-watersense-to-promote-conservation-in-your-community/) - Do you want to promote water conservation in your community, but aren’t sure where to start? Think you don’t have the time or staff to devote to the project? The Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPAs) WaterSense Promotional Partner program is what you need. You’re probably familiar with the WaterSense badge (pictured to the right) found on water-efficient appliances, but
- [Use Unit KPIs rather than “% of supply” KPIs for real water loss tracking and targets](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/use-unit-kpis-rather-than-of-supply-kpis-for-real-water-loss-tracking-and-targets/) - Does your utility use “% of supply” metrics for real water loss tracking? Although the American Water Works Association (AWWA) recommends that utility real loss be evaluated using unit loss Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) measured in gal/conn/day, gal/mile/day and $/conn/year many utilities continue to focus on “% of supply” metrics. But while “% of supply” real water loss KPIs and targets
- [Decentralized Wastewater Treatment: Understanding Aerobic Treatment Units](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/decentralized-wastewater-treatment-understanding-aerobic-treatment-units/) - Septic systems have been in use for over 150 years, providing an essential service for those living in communities where large-scale water treatment isn’t feasible. The small decentralized system is much more than just a concrete box with an input pipe. Septic systems are diverse and each style has advantages and disadvantages. We describe some
- [Fluid Communication: 4 Strategies for Improving Communication with Small Water System Customers](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/fluid-communication-4-strategies-for-improving-communication-with-small-water-system-customers/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.17.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ _builder_version=”4.17.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.17.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.17.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”] Utilities, regardless of size, need the community they serve to trust in their ability to provide reliable drinking water. Even more, a utility needs their community to trust in their decision making, infrastructure spending, and rate setting. Trust is
- [Two Major Challenges New Mexico’s MDWCAs Face (and how understanding the Sanitary Projects Act can help)](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/two-major-challenges-new-mexicos-mdwcas-face/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.17.3″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”]RIO GRANDE NEAR EMBUDO, NEW MEXICO. PHOTO BY TUCKER COLVIN History of MDWCAs in New Mexico In New Mexico, 37% of the state’s community drinking water systems are organized as Mutual Domestic Water Consumer’s Associations (MDWCAs). The
- [What’s in Your Water? WEF Accepting Applications from Small Utilities for Free Autosamplers](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/whats-in-your-water-wef-accepting-applications-from-small-utilities-for-free-autosamplers/) - Automatic samplers (autosamplers) can be an excellent way to screen and monitor for wastewater-based diseases. Autosamplers also help identify organic, solid, and nutrient levels in wastewater treatment facilities. Participation in wastewater monitoring, however, has historically skewed toward larger utilities with more access to resources. To help combat this access imbalance, The Water Environment Federation
- [WEBINAR: Water System Partnerships & Regionalization - The Water Company Model](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/webinar-system-partnerships-regionalization-part-3/) - Small drinking water systems have many options for partnership and regionalization. This webinar will explore the water company model, where a single entity centrally manages several water systems that are not necessarily physically interconnected. Through central management, the water company is able to control costs, access certified system operators and achieve economies of scale for the small systems it operates. The webinar will feature one water company, Aqua North Carolina, that manages almost 800 public water systems in the state. We will discuss the advantages and challenges of the water company model and highlight what makes a system attractive for a water company to acquire. This particular regionalization model may be most attractive to system managers that want to transfer their assets to another system but do not have a viable local option for a physical interconnection.
- [WEBINAR: Water System Partnerships & Regionalization - Water Supply](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/webinar-system-partnership-regionalization-part-4/) - Often small systems are reluctant to consider regionalization or collaborative approaches to solving problems because they fear the loss of autonomy. This webinar will showcase one regionalization/collaboration option used by a group of water systems in central Texas. These systems found a way to work together to solve common problems while also maintaining a high degree of autonomy.
- [What Does Santa Claus Charge for Water and Wastewater Service?](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/what-does-santa-claus-charge-for-water-and-wastewater-service/) - The call came in on a December morning several years ago. When I saw the caller ID said “Santa Claus” I decided not to answer the phone. My thought was “seriously, what will these telemarketers think of next?!?” Later that morning, I noticed that caller had left voicemail. To my surprise, there was a message about water rates from the Mayor of Santa Claus, Georgia.
- [What the 2019 North Carolina Rates Survey Data Can Do for You](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/what-the-2019-north-carolina-rates-survey-data-can-do-for-you/) - Recently, the North Carolina Water and Wastewater Rates Dashboard was updated with 2019 data and the North Carolina Water and Wastewater Rates Report 2019 was published. Are you getting all you can out of these useful resources? As the start of the new fiscal year approaches in July, utilities across North Carolina will be preparing
- [What We Can Learn from Consolidated Utilities](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/what-we-can-learn-from-consolidated-utilities/) - Now is a time of growing uncertainty and change in the water sector. Meanwhile, there are tens of thousands of water utilities and authorities in the United States. Collaboration will be essential to securing our nation’s water future. As the adage goes, there’s strength in numbers. Consolidating water utilities is one of many options communities
- [The Case for Asset Management to Improve Utility Capacity](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/the-case-for-asset-management-to-improve-utility-capacity/) - This podcast discusses the benefits of asset management to improve utility capacity. Listen to more water system management podcasts by EFCN. Visit the EFCN resource library for more related content.
- [Septic Systems: How Do They Work?](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/septic-systems-how-do-they-work/) - Septic systems are a common method of waste treatment that are implemented in millions of homes across the United States alone. But how do they work?
- [What is a Funding Navigator?](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/what-is-a-funding-navigator/) - What is a funding navigator? A funding navigator is an advocate and a resource that can help you navigate the complex world of funding so you can get your projects off the ground. For more information on resources for water and wastewater projects in your community visit our Funding Tables page.
- [Tap Into Water: Bottled or Faucet Animation](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tap-into-water-bottled-or-faucet-animation/) - Have you ever wondered whether you should drink bottled or faucet water? Check out this animation comparing the differences and similarities between tap and bottled water. Which one do you drink? This animation was completed as part of the University of New Mexico's Grand Challenges: Sustainable Water Resources. Research and animation was done by the
- [What Role Should Your Utility Play in Your Community's Development?](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/what-role-should-your-utility-play-in-your-communitys-development/) - Most of the time water and sewer professionals focus on the day-to-day tasks of operating a utility. But how involved should utilities be in advancing the growth of their community? How does community development fit within the utility’s role to provide critical environmental and public health services? When a community sets goals for growth and
- [What to Include in a Successful Interlocal Water and Wastewater Agreement](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/what-to-include-in-a-successful-interlocal-water-and-wastewater-agreement/) - Across North Carolina, population shifts, flooding and drought, changes in industry and manufacturing, and the continuous move toward a reduction in overall water use has continued to create partnership opportunities for large and small water and wastewater systems alike. For large systems anticipating future growth, increased and more economically-savvy water supply may be accomplished through
- [What’s Trending? A Look Into North Carolina Household Water Bills and the Income to Pay](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/whats-trending-a-look-into-north-carolina-household-water-bills-and-the-income-to-pay/) - The 2019 North Carolina Water and Wastewater Rates Dashboard was deployed just over a month ago, marking another year in a long partnership between the Environmental Finance Center at UNC-Chapel Hill, the North Carolina League of Municipalities, and the North Carolina Division of Water Infrastructure. One of the benefits of such a long and successful
- [Who is Supplying Water in Puerto Rico?](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/who-is-supplying-water-in-puerto-rico/) - About 96% of the population in Puerto Rico receives water from the Puerto Rico Aqueduct and Sewer Authority (PRASA). But the other 4% of the population is supplied by about 240 very small water systems. In teaching workshops this year in Oklahoma, Kansas, Georgia and Colorado, it’s obvious that despite their similarities, each state’s small
- [Why Being Small is Hard- Big Challenges for Small Water Systems](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/small-hard-big-challenges-small-water-systems/) - Access to clean, safe water does not come easy. We may have mental images of some parts of the world where people spend their whole day traveling to and from water sources and preparing water so that it is safe to consume. But in the United States, we’ve come to expect clean and safe water
- [Why Water Utilities Should Conduct Climate Change Vulnerability Assessments](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/why-water-utilities-should-conduct-climate-change-vulnerability-assessments/) - Written by: Brandy Espinola Brandy Espinola is the Resilience and Sustainability Program Manager for the Environmental Finance Center at the University of Maryland. Aging infrastructure, terrorist attacks, and climate change, oh my! As utility operators, these are just a few of the uncertainties that need to be managed in order to prevent massive water service
- [WIFIA! EPA's New Billion Dollar Water and Wastewater Loan Program Hits the Street](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/wifia-epas-new-billion-dollar-water-wastewater-loan-program-hits-street/) - What is WIFIA? WIFIA stands for the Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act, the name of the federal act that authorized an interesting new federally managed water and wastewater infrastructure funding mechanism. WIFIA includes both direct loans and a new credit enhancement/guarantee mechanism (more on WIFIA guarantees in a future blog post). The WIFIA program
- [Won't you pay my Bill? | Pathways to Getting Some Customers to Help Pay for the Bills of Others](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/wont-pay-bill-pathways-getting-customers-help-pay-bills-others/) - “Won’t you pay my bill?” is a question that the water utility asks of the customers who do not pay their water, wastewater, and even stormwater bills. But low-income customers are, essentially, asking the same question: will you—higher-income customers—help pay the water bills of the poor? National organizations like the American Water Works Association have policies
- [Workforce Planning: Recruiting and Retaining Employees for your Water System](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/workforce-planning-recruiting-retaining-employees-water-system/) - Written by: Khris Dodson Khris Dodson is the Associate Director at the Syracuse University Environmental Finance Center Your people are your #1 Asset. Well, maybe your #2 asset behind your actual facility. But, without good people, in time, you will likely not have a good facility either. So, how do you find and keep good
- [Working with Millennials: A Miserable Experience or a Misunderstood Opportunity?](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/working-millennials-miserable-experience-misunderstood-opportunity/) - Written by: Tonya Bronleewe & Leslie Kimble Tonya Bronleewe is a Project Manager at the Wichita State University Environmental Finance Center. Leslie Kimble is a Marketing Coordinator at the Wichita State University Environmental Finance Center. Have you ever read an article about “millennials?” Some of the more common ways media likes to describe millennials is as
- [Water System Reserves During the COVID-19 Pandemic](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/water-system-reserves-during-the-covid-19-pandemic/) - Local governments have an increased public health responsibility to ensure that people have access to clean water during the COVID-19 pandemic. During this time, many utilities are refraining from shutting off customers’ water, despite unpaid bills. In more than a dozen states, mandates have even been put in place to prevent utility service shut-offs for
- [Water Efficiency at Drinking Water Systems without Volumetric Charges](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/water-efficiency-at-drinking-water-systems-without-volumetric-charges/) - All drinking water systems should be concerned about water loss—water that is treated but does not reach an end user because it leaks out through the system’s network of pipes. Water loss wastes both a precious resource (the drinking water) and potentially a lot of money as well (energy use, chemicals, wear and tear on equipment, etc.).
- [Visualizing the Value (of a State Revolving Loan Fund)](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/16279-2/) - Imagine a town called “Smallville.” Smallville, as you might guess, is small. The town’s water utility needs a new water tank, and they need it now. Like most systems across the US, Smallville’s system is aging and has significant infrastructure needs. Smallville generally knows the assets that are most critical and has assigned a level
- [Utilities Have a New Financing Option to Protect Drinking Water Sources](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/utilities-have-a-new-financing-option-to-protect-drinking-water-sources/) - The principal mission of public water systems is to supply clean, safe drinking water to the public. Several very good economic studies exist that demonstrate that protection of the land surrounding drinking water sources is the most economical and most effective way to ensure safe drinking water. The New England EFC has done work with
- [Using Utility-Level Data to Study the Affordability of Water Rates](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/using-utility-level-data-study-affordability-water-rates/) - The affordability of water and wastewater rates is an issue attracting more attention than ever. In particular, “A Burgeoning Crisis? A Nationwide Assessment of the Geography of Water Affordability in United States”—a recent paper from Michigan State University— has generated a great deal of debate and dialogue about the issue. The paper is worth reading for
- [Using Local Fiscal Recovery Funds for Water, Wastewater, and Stormwater Infrastructure Projects](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/using-local-fiscal-recovery-funds-for-water-wastewater-and-stormwater-infrastructure-projects/) - Passed in March of 2021, the American Rescue Plan Act designated $350 billion for State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds. These funds go directly to states, tribal governments, and local municipalities, though small municipalities (also called Non-entitlement units or NEUs) receive their funds through a state office. As of September 16th, the US Treasury reported
- [Three Strategies to Reduce Costs: Purchasing Partnerships for Water Systems](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/three-strategies-reduce-costs-purchasing-partnerships-water-systems/) - Drinking water and wastewater systems may be able to reduce costs by partnering with other systems. These partnerships can range from informal agreements to the transfer of ownership and creation of a new utility. This post examines a range of partnership options and strategies to reduce costs for common drinking water and wastewater system supplies.
- [Three Strategies for Water Utilities with Aging Infrastructure](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/three-strategies-water-utilities-aging-infrastructure/) - Last month, as part of our Smart Management for Small Water Systems project, I traveled with Glenn Barnes, Senior Project Director at the Environmental Finance Center at UNC Chapel Hill, to visit a small water system that is in quite a financial bind. The system, which has the highest rates in its state, needs an estimated
- [Three States With Laws Allowing Water Utility Customer Assistance Programs](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/three-states-laws-allowing-water-utility-customer-assistance-programs/) - Unlike your favorite TV show, college football, or even your cell phone, water is a truly vital part of life. However, many Americans may still not have affordable access to this necessity. The question of whether or not water is “affordable” in some communities is an ongoing debate. State laws, aging infrastructure, lack of funding,
- [Three State Programs that Assist Local Capital Planning & Statewide Infrastructure Needs Assessment](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/three-state-programs-assist-local-capital-planning-statewide-infrastructure-needs-assessment/) - The EPA’s 2011 Report to Congress on the Drinking Water Infrastructure Needs Survey and Assessment, which estimated infrastructure capital needs of $384.2 billion over the next 20 years, includes a short line that has stuck with me all summer: “It is difficult to predict future needs.” [1] Predicting the future in any context is difficult—if
- [This Week in Water Affordability News (and Perspectives)](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/this-week-in-water-affordability-news-and-perspectives/) - Interested in the challenge of protecting public and environmental health without losing sight of the burden those goals may place on some segments of our society? The affordability challenge sits at the intersection of efforts to assure adequate investment in critical public health infrastructure with social and equity concerns and three recent pieces that came
- [The Revenue Ups and Downs of the Water Business](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/the-revenue-ups-and-downs-of-the-water-business/) - The Upside: The water business sells one of the most important, if not the most important, products on earth. It is a product that can be used for thousands of purposes and one that has limited competitive pressures compared to other products (an overseas producer probably won’t take your market share anytime soon). The Downside: Technology is
- [The Perils of Comparing Water Rates](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/the-perils-of-comparing-water-rates/) - The Environmental Finance Center at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill conducts surveys of water and sewer rates in many states across the country and turns those results into rates dashboards. In recent years, at least three news outlets in Arizona, Illinois, and North Carolina have used data from these surveys in their stories showing that neighboring
- [The Nation's Workforce Related to Water](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/the-nations-workforce-related-to-water/) - Some of our workshops for small drinking water systems cover the topic of workforce planning—how do we keep our best employees, and how do we find more great employees to bring on board? As part of the day, we ask all participants to share how they got into the water business, and we hear a variety
- [The Lone Star State and Water Finance: The 2012 Texas Municipal Water and Wasterwater Rates Dashboard](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/the-lone-star-state-and-water-finance-the-2012-texas-municipal-water-and-wasterwater-rates-dashboard/) - Texas, the Lone Star State, is the second-largest state in the union, and the second-most populous. That means a lot of thirsty Texans when those hot summers roll around! As such, Texas has a great many water and wastewater utilities to serve the needs of its residents. Drawing on rates data from the Texas Municipal
- [The Gray Area in Funding Affordability Programs](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/gray-area-funding-affordability-programs/) - Why Water or Wastewater Utilities in Many States May Be Apprehensive to Fund Affordability Programs with Rate Revenue One of the reports recently completed at the Environmental Finance Center at the University of North Carolina at Chapel provides an analysis of the legal and policy environment surrounding rate-setting for water and wastewater utilities in all
- [Spotlight on Computerized Maintenance Management Systems (CMMS): Part 1 of 3](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/spotlight-on-computerized-maintenance-management-systems-cmms-part-1-of-3/) - In Brief This blog post is part of our three-part series on CMMS Software. This blog post is the first in the series. This blog post describes what CMMS software is and how your utility can determine whether or not it would be useful for your utility. What is CMMS software? A computerized maintenance management system (CMMS)
- [Source Your Funding to Tackle Nonpoint Source Pollution: Tribal Section 319 Grants](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/source-your-funding-to-tackle-nonpoint-source-pollution-tribal-section-319-grants/) - Nonpoint source pollution can be a complex and daunting problem. Unlike industrial and sewage plant pollution, Nonpoint source pollution (NPS) comes from many diffuse sources, making this issue difficult for many systems to address. As part of our Smart Management for Small Systems Project, the Southwest EFC is working to share resources with small water
- [Solutions for Problems Facing Small Drinking Water Systems](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/solutions-problems-facing-small-drinking-water-systems/) - Financial management is at the core of challenges small drinking water systems face. A comprehensive understanding of the financial health of a water system can help ensure that rates are set optimally, giving small systems the ability to finance projects while providing safe drinking water to their customers. The Environmental Finance Center (EFC) at UNC
- [Six Keys to Improve your Water Utility's Credit Rating- A Cheat Sheet](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/six-keys-improve-water-utilitys-credit-rating-cheat-sheet/) - Water and Wastewater utilities receive “credit ratings” just as a private individual has a FICO® score. While organizations like the Fair Isaac Corporation calculate personal credit scores, for entities like local government utilities, the three groups that generate credit ratings are Fitch Ratings, Moody’s, and Standard and Poor’s (S&P). For the utility, a higher rating
- [Seven Strategies for Identifying Who Is Willing and Able to Pay for Household Water Services](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/seven-strategies-identifying-willing-able-pay-household-water-services/) - Accurately identifying vulnerable groups and their commitment to pay, or incapacity to pay, is a timeless challenge in household water services. When consumers pay for household water service delivery, they are paying for the water, its delivery to their home, the infrastructure used in delivery, and the maintenance of supply and safety of their water.
- [Safe & SuRe: Exploring a New Approach to Resilient Systems](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/safe-sure-exploring-new-approach-resilient-systems/) - From emergency services to agriculture and food systems, to manufacturing industries, our critical infrastructure systems rely heavily on water. So much so that following a loss of water services, critical infrastructure can begin to degrade rapidly. According to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security after only two hours without water, hospitals can experience up to
- [Resiliency: What's the Buzz?](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/resiliency-whats-buzz/) - There is quite a bit of talk about resiliency today and it seems as though there are numerous definitions and uses to fit just about any circumstance. There are schools of thought dedicated to data resilience, military resilience, and even psychological resilience. Entire academic and nonprofit centers have been funded and devoted to the research
- [Regulations: Love 'em or Hate 'em, Common Sense or Overreach](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/regulations-love-em-hate-em-common-sense-overreach/) - Regulations are in the crosshairs right now. Regulations of all kinds, but especially environmental regulations, are hated by politicians, companies, regulated entities of all types, including public entities, and the general public. It is tempting to assume that all regulations are costly and unnecessary and that we would be better off without them. The question
- [Regionalization: Five Key Takeaways with Resources!](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/regionalization-five-key-takeaways-with-resources/) - In the past few years, the EFC has been asked to evaluate the different financial impacts of regionalization, from simple shared services agreements to full-on consolidation. Additionally, we have been evaluating barriers to and opportunities for the creation of new and different governance models. We have identified some key takeaways and, in the process, developed
- [Public vs. Private: A National Overview of Water Systems](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/public-vs-private-national-overview-water-systems/) - The dynamic between public and private systems has always been interesting, especially in the case of water and wastewater systems. Public water systems are usually non-profit entities managed by local or state governments, for which rates are set by a governing board. On the other hand, private water systems can be for-profit systems managed by
- [PFAS: New Drinking Water Standards Coming](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/pfas-new-drinking-water-standards-coming/) - Chemicals appear on and in many everyday items such as rugs, detergents, paper cups, and shampoo. Additionally, with the widespread use of fertilizers and insecticides, water systems are constantly fighting to prevent or reduce chemical contamination. While the contamination of our waterways by pharmaceuticals is making news headlines, there is another class of chemicals, Per-
- [Paving a (Permeable) Path for Localized Water Infrastructure](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/paving-a-permeable-path-for-localized-water-infrastructure/) - In the face of rapid climate change, water systems need to adapt. The recently passed Infrastructure Bill will include a flush of federal funding targeting water infrastructure, but what does (and what should) “water infrastructure” include? Industry definitions are changing to include “green” and “localized” in addition to traditional, or gray, infrastructure. The 2021 “Tap
- [Partnerships and Regionalization - A Real Life Situation](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/partnerships-and-regionalization-a-real-life-situation/) - Did you know there are over 250 publicly owned small water systems serving less than 1,000 connections in North Carolina? In the case of water and wastewater utilities, bigger can often mean better. Below we explore an aging system that stands to benefit significantly by developing partnerships and regionalization plans to better serve their community.
- [Operating at a Deficit: Solutions to a Water and Wastewater Operator Shortage](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/operating-at-a-deficit-solutions-to-a-water-and-wastewater-operator-shortage/) - Across the country, communities are dealing with a water and wastewater operator shortage within their treatment plants. This shortage – largely due to retirements occurring in an aging workforce – is leaving many municipalities in need of immediate replacements or short-term transition plans. Without qualified individuals to ensure state and federal standards are met for
- [New Year’s Resolutions for a Healthy Onsite Wastewater System](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/new-years-resolutions-for-a-healthy-onsite-wastewater-system/) - Much like my cholesterol levels, I tend to ignore my septic system until I get bad news. It’s easy to leave what is out of sight out of mind . . . until there is a problem. Since I grew up in the suburbs, I have a lot to learn about country living, including best
- [New Tool Helps Utilities Assess the Affordability of Water and Wastewater Service](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/new-tool-helps-utilities-assess-the-affordability-of-water-and-wastewater-service/) - When the five small water systems in Hampton County, South Carolina decided to band together to create the Lowcountry Regional Water System (LRWS), they, like many other small water systems across the country, faced a number of managerial and financial obstacles. Among these challenges were a flat growth rate, degraded and inadequate infrastructure, artificially low rates, and an economically disadvantaged population. Each of the five communities in this rural county had not only a different rate level, but also a different rate structure, with monthly rates for 5,000 gallons of water and sewer service ranging from as low as $36.50 to as high as $62.67. Whether the rates of the new, regionalized water system were “affordable” for all customers became a top concern for the LRWS.
- [Municipal Bonds & Finance in a Pandemic: How is the Market Responding?](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/municipal-finance-in-a-pandemic-how-is-the-market-responding/) - Municipal Bonds & COVID-19: What is going on? Prior to the outbreak of COVID-19 in the US, the municipal (“muni”) bond market was strong. Investors looking for a non-taxable rate of return were hungry for municipal bonds, driving interest rates down for borrowers (state and local governments) and pushing more debt into the marketplace. Most
- [Does How Often You Pay for it Matter? The Impacts of Billing Frequency](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/does-how-often-you-pay-for-it-matter-the-impacts-of-billing-frequency/) - At the Environmental Finance Center at UNC-Chapel Hill, we are always communicating that how you pay for it matters, but could how often you pay for it matter as well? We delve into the impacts of billing frequency on the utility. It may seem counter-intuitive to think that receiving bills more regularly would be positive,
- [Envisioning the Future of Water: Three Lessons about Water Management Learned from One City](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/envisioning-future-water-three-lessons-learned-one-city/) - In March, the UNC Institute for the Environment hosted the Clean Tech Summit, a multi-day event in which students and professionals convene and foster leadership and discussion among the Southeast’s clean tech industry. Many summit panels incorporated and focused on the topic of water management in all its forms: drinking water, stormwater, and wastewater. During
- [Financial Resilience: Tools to Test a Utility's Ability to "Weather the Storm"](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/financial-resilience-tools-to-test-a-utilitys-ability-to-weather-the-storm/) - These are unprecedented times. As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, social norms have changed and unemployment has risen sharply across the nation. As states have pushed residents to stay home, water usage patterns have altered for both commercial and residential customers. In many cases, commercial customers have decreased use while residential customers have increased. Schools have
- [Five Dangerous Financial Myths for Small Water Systems](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/five-dangerous-financial-myths-for-small-water-systems/) - Small water systems serving 10,000 people or less comprise more than 94% of our nation’s public water systems. They are a large and diverse group and are managed by a wide variety of actors. These include local and tribal governments to mobile home park owners, homeowners associations, shopping mall operators, and hotel managers. These managers
- [Four Finance Facts About Flint](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/four-finance-facts-about-flint/) - As this blog is being written, water and community managers from across the country are talking about the water crisis that is occurring in Flint, Michigan. The City made a decision several years ago to discontinue buying Lake Huron water from Detroit in favor of an alternative supplier who was planning on constructing a major
- [Four Trends in Government Spending on Water and Wastewater Utilities Since 1956](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/four-trends-in-government-spending-on-water-and-wastewater-utilities-since-1956/) - According to data collected and published by the Congressional Budget Office (CBO), federal, state, and local governments in the United States spent more than $2.2 trillion in the last 59 years on operations, maintenance, and capital infrastructure of water and wastewater utilities. That equates to more than $4,131,000,000,000 in 2014 dollars, adjusting for inflation of
- [Four Ways Water Utilities Can Weather a Hurricane](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/four-ways-water-utilities-can-weather-hurricane/) - Millions of United States citizens continue to battle the effects of massive hurricanes this month. Many have lost electric and water service. As water and wastewater utilities struggle to get their systems up and running again, some are in a better position than others. What makes a utility more resilient in the face of this
- [Fun Facts about Water System Rate Structures](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/fun-facts-water-system-rate-structures/) - The Environmental Finance Center currently produces statewide water and wastewater rates dashboards for 12 states across the US. We collect a lot of data on water system finance and management to build these dashboards, and those data can tell interesting stories about how water and wastewater systems structure their rates. This post presents key features of rate
- [Funding Program Spotlight: North Carolina Regionalization Feasibility Grant](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/funding-program-spotlight-north-carolina-regionalization-feasibility-grant/) - Calling all North Carolina water and wastewater systems who are considering merging/regionalization or other state funding agencies that want to promote regionalization. The North Carolina Merger/Regionalization Feasibility Grant offers water and wastewater systems an opportunity to conduct a study to evaluate the merging of two or more systems. This program emerged from Session Law 2015-241
- [How Utilities in the Past have Saved Money during Economic Hardship: Similarities and Differences for COVID-19](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/how-utilities-in-the-past-have-saved-money-during-economic-hardship-similarities-and-differences-for-covid-19/) - Right now, water utilities are facing great uncertainty about the coming months and years. When will moratoria on water shut-offs end? When will water consumption be back to “normal”? Will utility staff get COVID-19? And the “Big One” -- What will revenue loss be for utilities in the coming months and years? While answers to
- [I've Got the Rate Case Blues: How to Maintain Financial Health While Mounting Fewer Rate Cases](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/ive-got-rate-case-blues-maintain-financial-health-mounting-fewer-rate-cases/) - For water and sewer utilities regulated by a state’s public utilities commission (PUC), mounting a rate case can be an expensive proposition. In fact, for some particularly small utilities, mounting a rate case can be more expensive than operating the utility for many months. It’s no wonder, therefore, that utilities may be reluctant to undertake
- [Is Percent MHI the Best Way to Measure Affordability?](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/percent-mhi-best-way-measure-affordability/) - Most national analyses of affordability utilize a small sample of utilities or make generalized assumptions about expenditures. With more than 3,000 utilities in our pricing database, the Environmental Finance Center at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is uniquely positioned to conduct detailed analyses of affordability using multiple metrics. Historically, the most common
- [Key Financial Indicators for Water and Wastewater Systems: Current Ratio](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/key-financial-indicators-for-water-and-wastewater-systems-current-ratio/) - In previous posts, we outlined how to use the financial statements of a water or wastewater system to calculate the key financial indicators of operating ratio (a measure of self-sufficiency), debt service coverage ratio (a measure of a system’s ability to pay its long-term debts), and days of cash on hand (a measure of a system’s financial security).
- [Key Financial Indicators for Water and Wastewater Systems: Days of Cash on Hand](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/key-financial-indicators-for-water-and-wastewater-systems-days-of-cash-on-hand/) - In previous posts, we outlined how to use the financial statements of a water or wastewater system to calculate the key financial indicators of operating ratio (a measure of self-sufficiency) and debt service coverage ratio (a measure of a system’s ability to pay its long-term debts). Another key financial indicator is days of cash on hand. Days of
- [Key Financial Indicators for Water and Wastewater Systems: Operating Ratio](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/operating-ratio/) - Key financial indicators are a way for a system to get a snapshot of its financial health and to determine whether it needs to make adjustments to its rates, and they should be calculated annually when financial statements are released. One important financial indicator is operating ratio, which measures the ratio of annual operating revenues to annual operating expenses. To be a true enterprise fund that is self-supporting, a system should strive to have at least as much operating revenue as it has operating expenses, if not more. Otherwise, the system would be operating at a loss.
- [Magdalena, New Mexico: A Success Story from the Smart Management for Small Water Systems Project](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/magdalena-new-mexico-a-success-story-from-the-smart-management-for-small-water-systems-project/) - What can a small town do when the financial health of its water system is at risk? This is the question that Stephanie Finch, the town clerk and treasurer for the Village of Magdalena in New Mexico, faced in early 2015. Magdalena has a population of 1,200 and its water system serves fewer than 450
- [Metrics to Determine Principal Forgiveness Eligibility: Highlighting EPA Region 4](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/metrics-to-determine-principal-forgiveness-eligibility-highlighting-epa-region-4/) - The State Revolving Fund (SRF) programs have become a well-known financing option for many water and wastewater infrastructure projects across the country. This is mainly due to the longevity of the clean water (CWSRF) and drinking water (DWSRF) programs and the appealing financing options, such as low-interest rates, offered in each state. However, many communities across the country
- [Metrics and Methods to Determine Principal Forgiveness Eligibility: Highlighting EPA Regions 9 and 10](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/metrics-and-methods-to-determine-principal-forgiveness-eligibility-highlighting-epa-regions-9-and-10/) - In 2018, the Environmental Finance Center (EFC) published findings from a study that assessed the metrics and criteria used to determine principal forgiveness eligibility in the state revolving funds (SRFs) in EPA Region 4. To complete a more comprehensive analysis, the EFC conducted interviews with program managers/directors and reviewed intended use plans in EPA Regions 9 and 10[1]. The methodology used in
- [Managing Assets or Asset Management?](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/managing-assets-asset-management/) - When you think about your facility – be it water, wastewater, stormwater, or any other set of assets – are your assets managing you, are you managing your assets or are you practicing asset management? The distinctions between the latter two ideas may not seem all that important, but these differences are quite important to
- [Keep Calm and Know Your Water Audit](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/keep-calm-know-water-audit/) - Audit. This term scares many. IRS. Fraud. Prison. When it comes to water, however, there is no cause for alarm. In almost every circumstance, the water audit process is relatively pain-free and provides numerous benefits to your water system. A water audit will provide most systems with the following information: an expected minimum amount
- [It's Not a Gap, It's a Trade-off](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/not-gap-trade-off/) - I thoroughly enjoy having my conventional thinking turned on its head, which is even more fun when it affects conventional wisdom in general. So here goes… What gap are we talking about here? We often think of the gap as the difference between the money we have and the money we want or need to
- [Financial Resiliency and Future Plans](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/financial-resiliency-and-future-plans/) - What could make the difference between a utility making it through an event like Hurricane Florence with relatively few impacts, and one that has major, lasting problems? Imagine two utilities, just over the county line from one another, with the same assets that are exactly the same age, located at the same elevations. Will their
- [How Important was Water Pricing in Achieving Conservation Goals During the California Drought?](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/how-important-was-water-pricing-in-achieving-conservation-goals-during-the-california-drought/) - California’s severe drought and statewide conservation mandate provided an opportunity to analyze the effects of pricing strategies as a tool to curb water use. In 2015, the State Water Resources Control Board was charged with implementing a reduction of 25 percent on the state’s local water supply agencies. One of the strategies the Board suggested
- [Have You Seen the Electric Bill? The Importance of the Water Energy Nexus](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/have-you-seen-the-electric-bill/) - Written by: Dawn Nall Dawn Nall is a Program Manager at the Environmental Finance Center at the University of New Mexico. For many water systems, the electric (or energy) bill is one of the largest expenses regularly incurred by the water utility. It is also one of the most controllable expenses a water utility will
- [Four Words that Forward-Thinking Utilities Should Rethink](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/four-words-that-forward-thinking-utilities-should-rethink/) - Each quarter, the Oxford English Dictionary adds new and revised words to the official dictionary. The latest update included more than 650 new words, senses, and subentries, including: “fake news,” “xoxo,” and “Jedi mind trick.” Out of the roughly 172,000 words in the dictionary, there are four words that water utilities might think twice about
- [Four Factors that Allow One Utility to Provide Financial Assistance to People Who Don't Even Have a Water Account](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/four-factors-allow-one-utility-provide-financial-assistance-people-dont-even-water-account/) - When setting rates, most water and wastewater utilities are concerned (at least to some extent) about whether their customers can afford the resulting bills. Many utilities are also wondering how they can assist the poorest segments of their customer base with the cost of water/wastewater service. However, a frustrating problem is that a lot of
- [Board Member Responsibilities for Managing a Water Utility](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/board-member-responsibilities-managing-water-utility/) - Elected officials or board members may be members of a city council or county commission or serve on the Rural Water District board. With a long list of to-dos and policy concerns, how are board members supposed to stay up-to-date and knowledgeable on all that goes into properly managing a water utility? A board member’s
- [Financial Implications of COVID-19 for Water and Wastewater Utilities](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/financial-implications-of-covid-19-for-water-and-wastewater-utilities/) - Water and wastewater utilities are adapting to the rapidly changing conditions imposed across the country and the world by the COVID-19 pandemic. With stay-at-home orders, closures of schools, restaurants, and other businesses, and major disruptions to the workforce and operations, utilities are changing practices and procedures every day to continue to operate and provide the
- [Electronic Preventive Maintenance Logs](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/electronic-preventive-maintenance-logs/) - The benefits of preventive maintenance are well established. Now you must decide what to do and when to do it. Luckily, there is a tool to help you answer those questions. The electronic preventative maintenance logs provided by the EPA gives you a step by step outline and schedule to help utility operators stay on
- [Disconnections- Where's the Data?](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/disconnections-wheres-the-data/) - On October 5th, two House Democrats, Harley Rouda and Rashida Tlaib, submitted this letter to ask the director of the CDC to give a nation-wide moratorium on water disconnections due to non-payment through the state of emergency because of COVID-19. While this is at the federal scale, many individual utilities and states already declared moratoria in 2020, though
- [Critical Assets – What Are They and Where Are They?](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/critical-assets-what-are-they-and-where-are-they/) - They say a picture is worth a thousand words, but, did you know a picture could save you 1,000 hours, or even $1,000? Knowing what your critical assets are, and where they are located, can save you time and money when responding to problems. WHAT ARE CONSIDERED CRITICAL ASSETS? First, a little about determining
- [COVID-19 Conditions’ Financial Effects on 49 Small Water Systems in North Carolina](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/covid-19-conditions-financial-effects-on-49-small-water-systems-in-north-carolina/) - Three months after the COVID-19 pandemic suddenly changed how Americans live and work, the financial implications for water systems are becoming apparent. Back in March, we forecasted some of these effects, but we couldn’t measure those changes at that time. As time passes, water systems are able to take stock on how much has changed,
- [COVID-19 and North Carolina Utilities: Impact Assessment of the Coronavirus Pandemic on North Carolina Water and Wastewater Utilities](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/covid-19-and-north-carolina-utilities-impact-assessment-of-the-coronavirus-pandemic-on-north-carolina-water-and-wastewater-utilities/) - August has been a key transition month for local government utilities in North Carolina as EO 124/142 (which prohibited disconnections due to non-payment for residential utility accounts) has expired, payment plans are required to be in place, and Governor Cooper just announced $175 million in relief money, including $122 million for assistance in paying rent
- [Communicating with Utility Staff During COVID-19](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/communicating-with-utility-staff-during-covid-19/) - Thanks to the work of water operators, utility staff and water quality regulators across the country, communities in the United States rarely have to worry about their drinking water; a service that is, without a doubt, critical and essential. The reality of this global pandemic is that some water utility workers may be unable to
- [Challenges and Innovations: Current and Future States of Water Affordability: Part 2](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/challenges-and-innovations-current-and-future-states-of-water-affordability-part-2/) - Note: This is the second in a series of Xylem formerly Valor Water Analytics blog posts exploring states of water affordability, customer nonpayment, and technology that can enable utilities to deliver water more equitably and sustainably to all customers. It was originally posted to Xylem formerly Valor Water Analytics on April 22, 2019. You can read
- [Challenges and Innovations: Current and Future States of Water & the Affordability Crisis](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/challenges-and-innovations-current-and-future-states-of-water-affordability/) - Note: This is the first in a series of Xylem formerly Valor Water Analytics blog posts exploring the water affordability crisis, customer nonpayment, and technology that can enable utilities to deliver water more equitably and sustainably to all customers. It was originally posted to Xylem formerly Valor Water Analytics on April 2, 2019. Where We Are: Assessment
- [Celebrate Drinking Water Week this May](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/celebrate-drinking-water-week-may/) - Drinking Water Week, observed May 1-7 this year, is a chance for water professionals, educators, and communities to raise awareness and celebrate the value of water. “Tap water: less than a penny. So much less that I could give all 2,000 of you a glass just like this one, and it would cost only 90
- [Can Households Afford Water and Wastewater Bills When Faced with Unexpected Expenses?](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/can-households-afford-water-and-wastewater-bills-when-faced-with-unexpected-expenses/) - At the Environmental Finance Center, we think a lot about the affordability of environmental services such as drinking water and wastewater. When developing utilities we have to consider not only the cost of the system but also the affordability not water and wastewater bills to the households within the community. How do we do this? Historically,
- [Blog Post Round-Up: Infrastructure Week 2018](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/blog-post-round-up-infrastructure-week-2018/) - Today marks the end of the sixth annual National Infrastructure Week—a week of events, media coverage, and issue advocacy across the country to elevate infrastructure as a critical issue impacting America’s future. In the world of environmental finance, however, every week is infrastructure week, with growing capital needs to replace aging assets acting as a major challenge in
- [Becoming a Water Utility Operator: Test-taking Strategies](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/becoming-a-water-utility-operator-test-taking-strategies/) - Are you interested in where our drinking water comes from, or how our cities and towns handle all of the wastewater that is generated by our modern society? Do you care about the health of your community and its future? Are you looking for a career that pays well with the potential for growth? If
- [Avoid the Naughty List! Holiday Tips from Your Septic Tank](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/avoid-the-naughty-list-holiday-tips-from-your-septic-tank/) - Dear Septic Tank Owner, You probably don’t want to hear from me at all, but especially not at this time of year. I know you’re busy with holiday plans and celebrations. But nothing will turn your life from a Hallmark™ movie to a “Grinch” sequel faster than septic tank problems. So, take it from me,
- [ARPA Final Rule Flexibility for Water, Wastewater, and Stormwater Projects](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/arpa-final-rule-flexibility-for-water-wastewater-and-stormwater-projects/) - After much anticipation, the U.S. Treasury released updated guidance concerning the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). On January 6th, 2022, the U.S. Treasury issued its Final Rule on the ARPA State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds (SLFRF). Additionally, the U.S. Treasury released an Overview document providing a summary of the main updates and provisions
- [Are Your Rates Special?](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/are-your-rates-special/) - In the course of conducting our statewide utility rates surveys, we here at the Environmental Finance Center at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill examine thousands of rate structures each year. We’ve seen it all, from the especially complex to the most basic. One thing we have noticed is that sometimes utilities create
- [Are You Paying Too Much? Understanding your energy rate schedules](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/paying-much-understanding-energy-rate-schedules/) - For many water systems, the electric (or energy) bill is one of the largest expenses regularly incurred by the water utility. It is also one of the most controllable expenses a water utility will have. Most energy providers charge different rates for different types of customers, such as commercial and residential. Understanding your energy rate
- [Are Utilities that Need to Raise Rates Actually Raising Rates?](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/utilities-need-raise-rates-actually-raising-rates/) - What happens if a water utility collects less in revenues than it pays in expenditures in one year? It will raise some alarms, but some utilities might be able to weather that shortfall by dipping into their reserves and bounce back the following year. But what happens if a water utility collects less in revenues
- ["One Water" Approach for Improvement in Water Resource Management](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/one-water-approach-for-improvement-in-water-resource-management/) - In most U.S. water systems, drinking, waste, and stormwater, are managed separately and each has its own costs to safely provide clean water for society. However, this traditional approach does not recognize the vital importance of freshwater as a finite resource with economic value in every form. The "One Water" approach seeks to address this
- [New Video Series on Financial Topics for Water Utilities, their Boards, and Funders](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/waterclips/) - Water utility governing boards serve a critical role in ensuring the provision of clean, safe drinking water. Governing boards are tasked with making important and complex decisions in line with the utility’s mission, and they ultimately serve to keep water utilities accountable to the public. One of the most important roles of a governing board is to protect the utility’s long-term financial health and sustainability. Yet water utility governing board members don’t always have a background in finance or a strong understanding of key financial issues that impact the utility. A new series of educational videos produced by the Environmental Finance Center at UNC Chapel Hill, with support from the Water Research Foundation, offers an engaging, accessible, and easily shareable resource on financial management topics designed specifically for water utility governing boards. The Water₡lips© Video Series describes challenges faced by water utilities across the country using eye catching visualizations and easy to understand explanations of concepts that can otherwise be daunting.
- [Water as a Service](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/water-as-a-service/) - At a recent conference, we asked utility managers and operators to tell us about their everyday communication challenges. Again and again, we heard that communicating with customers about the value of the service their utility provides was difficult, because too often, customers think about water as a good rather than a service. Customers see water
- [WEBINAR: Ask the Expert: A Unique Opportunity to Ask Your Asset Management Questions or Seek Advice on How to Begin (April 24, 2014)](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/webinar-ask-the-expert-a-unique-opportunity-to-ask-your-asset-management-questions-or-seek-advice-on-how-to-begin/) - If you have been to an asset management training or have considered or even started asset management activities, you probably have generated many questions about the process. For example, “Where is a good place to start?” or “What options do I have for mapping my system?” or “How do I number my assets?” You may have specific questions regarding something you’ve tried and had difficulty with. This webinar will provide you with a unique opportunity to ask any and all questions regarding asset management or implementing asset management. An asset management practitioner – Ross Waugh – with extensive experience implementing the process in New Zealand will be here to answer your questions. This will be a great chance to hear information regarding what has worked elsewhere in the world and to learn from those experiences. If you don’t have any questions of your own, you can still greatly benefit from listening in to the questions of others. This webinar will be hosted by the Environmental Finance Center Network.
- [WEBINAR: Asset Management Core Component 1 - The Current State of the Assets](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/webinar-asset-management-core-component-1-the-current-state-of-the-assets/) - This is an opportunity for your water system to participate in a training event that will help the utility answer the question, “How can we spend our limited dollars to have the greatest impact?” This webinar will provide an overview of Asset Management and discuss the first core component of Asset Management, The Current State of the Assets.
- [WEBINAR: Asset Management Core Component 1 - The Current State of the Assets (rebroadcast)](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/webinar-asset-management-core-component-1-the-current-state-of-the-assets-repeat/) - This is an opportunity for your water system to participate in a training event that will help the utility answer the question, “How can we spend our limited dollars to have the greatest impact?” This webinar will provide an overview of Asset Management and discuss the first core component of Asset Management, The Current State of the Assets.
- [WEBINAR: Asset Management Core Component 2 - Required Level of Service](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/webinar-asset-management-core-component-2-required-level-of-service/) - This is an opportunity for your water system to participate in a training event that will help the utility answer the question, “How can we spend our limited dollars to have the greatest impact?” This webinar will provide an overview of Asset Management and discuss the second core component of Asset Management, Required Level of Service.
- [WEBINAR: Asset Management Core Component 3 - Critical Assets](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/webinar-asset-management-core-component-3-critical-assets/) - This is an opportunity for your water system to participate in a training event that will help the utility answer the question, “How can we spend our limited dollars to have the greatest impact?” This webinar will provide an overview of Asset Management and discuss the third core component of Asset Management, Critical Assets.
- [WEBINAR: Asset Management Core Component 5 - Long Term Funding Strategy](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/webinar-asset-management-core-component-5-long-term-funding-strategy/) - This is an opportunity for your water system to participate in a training event that will help the utility answer the question, “How can we spend our limited dollars to have the greatest impact?” This webinar will provide an overview of Asset Management and discuss the first core component of Asset Management, Long Term Funding Strategy.
- [WEBINAR: Asset Management Core Component 4 - Life Cycle Costing](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/webinar-asset-management-core-component-4-life-cycle-costing/) - This is an opportunity for your water system to participate in a training event that will help the utility answer the question, “How can we spend our limited dollars to have the greatest impact?” This webinar will provide an overview of Asset Management and discuss the fourth core component of Asset Management, Life Cycle Costing.
- [WEBINAR: Benchmarking Rates and Financial Health for Small Water Systems in the U.S. (Repeat of 8/15/13)](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/webinar-8-22/) - Location: On-line Date: August 22nd, 2013 Time: 2:00-3:30 PM Eastern Daylight Time / 11:00 AM-12:30 PM Pacific Daylight Time Instructors: David Tucker & Shadi Eskaf Cost: FREE! This 90-minute, interactive webinar will offer participants information about financial sustainability metrics for small water systems (serving 10,000 or fewer people). By the end of the webinar, participants will
- [WEBINAR: Leadership Part I - Translating Data into Effective Communication](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/webinar-leadership-translating-data-into-effective-communication/) - Have you ever wondered why, when all the facts support your project you still can’t get the approval or the votes to move it to implementation? When you have all the facts in your back pocket and have presented all the data to your audience, why does it seem that – more often than not – the line item goes to someone else? In this webinar you will be introduced to how your audience perceives your data and how to present your information in a more compelling format. From pie charts to columns and busted pipes to sinkholes, find out how to tell your story so that the next project that gets approved has your name on it.
- [WEBINAR: Benchmarking Rates and Financial Health for Small Water Systems in the United States](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/webinar-benchmarking-rates-and-financial-health-for-small-water-systems-in-the-united-states/) - Date: August 15, 2013 Time: 2:00-3:00 PM Eastern Daylight Time / 11:00 AM-12:00 Noon Pacific Daylight Time Instructor: David Tucker This one-hour, interactive webinar will offer participants information about financial sustainability metrics for small water systems (serving 10,000 or fewer people). By the end of the webinar, participants will be able to apply a variety of
- [WEBINAR: Designing Appropriate Rate Structures for Small Water Systems](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/webinar-sept24/) - Location: Your computer, on-line Date: September 24, 2013 Time: 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM EDT / 11:00 AM - 12:30 PDT Instructor: Shadi Eskaf How you charge your customers is often as important as how much you charge them. This webinar will describe the different elements of water rate structures and when it is appropriate to favor certain elements
- [WEBINAR: Leadership Part II - Effective Messaging](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/webinar-leadership-effective-messaging/) - What stories move you to action? What images trigger your emotions? Why do you support one issue but oppose another? Whether you realize it or not, effective messaging is often in play whether you are choosing a bag of chips or pledging your hard earned dollars to a cause. In this webinar we will show you some basic messaging concepts including the use of powerful images that evoke the critical values of your audience. You will also be introduced to successful water conservation and improvement campaigns that use both humor and message to convince their communities to pay for better systems. In the end, this webinar will provide a simple three-step structure to help you re-imagine your story and get the job done.
- [Webinar: Water & Sewer Rates Analysis Tool](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/webinar-water-sewer-rates-analysis-tool/) - Does your system charge your customers the correct amount for water? This webinar will help systems answer this question by demonstrating the Water & Sewer Rates Analysis Model, an Excel tool developed by the Environmental Finance Center at The University of North Carolina. This free, basic cash-flow modeling tool allows water systems to input their current rate structure, estimates on number of customers and water use, and the expected costs for the system. The tool then automatically projects the end-of-year fund balance for the next several years, indicating whether revenues will be high enough to cover expected expenses. Users can then enter in another rate structure and compare the end-of-year fund balance side-by-side to the one projected using current rates. This allows users to try out scenarios of adjusting their rates to meet their financial goals in the next few years, and can help users determine whether they need to adjust rates, and by how much, in order to achieve financial sufficiency. The tool can be used by systems that set volumetric charges for water as well as systems that only charge flat monthly fees.
- [WEBINAR: Water Loss Reduction - Part I](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/webinar-water-loss-reduction-part-i/) - The EFCN is hosting a three-part water loss reduction webinar series for small systems serving 10,000 or fewer customers. This series will offer participants an introduction to establishing an effective water loss control program at their water system. Participants will learn about the different parts of the water balance equation, performing a water audit at their system and how to begin to address non-revenue water including both apparent losses and real losses (leakage). The first webinar will focus on establishing the baseline of your water loss. It will include information regarding water loss auditing.
- [WEBINAR: Water Loss Reduction - Part III](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/webinar-water-loss-reduction-part-iii/) - This webinar will focus on strategically deploying water loss detection methodologies. Often times, people believe they either conduct leak detection activities on the whole system or not at all. There are several other possibilities of deploying water loss detection methodologies. The decision-making process will be explored in this webinar.
- [WEBINAR: Water Loss Reduction - Part II](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/webinar-water-loss-reduction-part-ii/) - This webinar will focus on the four methods of reducing real water loss: responding to known leaks faster, asset management, pressure management, and finding hidden leaks. The emphasis will be on tools and techniques that can be used to find hidden leaks including considerations regarding the use of these techniques (such as: pipe types and sizes, cost, personnel requirements, system requirements etc.)
- [WEBINAR: Water System Partnerships & Regionalization - Inter-system agreements](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/webinar-system-partnerships-regionalization-part-1/) - Small water systems should consider various methods of partnering with other water systems as a way to control costs. One common way for systems to partner is to construct a physical interconnection with another system to buy or sell water regularly or for emergencies. The agreement between the two systems that are physically interconnected is controlled by a contract. This webinar will explain tips for making these contracts between water systems successful and will present the guide “Crafting Inter-Local Water Agreements: Tips Relating to Issues You May Not Have Thought of or that You Were Hoping to Avoid,” which was based on a comprehensive review of inter-system water agreements.
- [WEBINAR: Water System Partnerships & Regionalization - System Mergers](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/webinar-system-partnerships-regionalization-part-2/) - Small water systems should consider various methods of partnering with other water systems as a way to control costs. One option for systems is to merge with either one or multiple other systems to form a new, larger entity that is more able to take advantage of economies of scale. This webinar will highlight the creation of the Lowcountry Regional Water System in South Carolina from five small town systems in Hampton County and will focus on the financial advantages and challenges of system mergers.
- ['Tis the Seasonal Rates: A Quick Look at Seasonal Rates Across Six States](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tis-seasonal-rates/) - Written by: Evan Kirk Evan Kirk is a student data analyst at the Environmental Finance Center. During my first year at the Environmental Finance Center (EFC) I have worked on water and wastewater rate surveys in Georgia, Alabama, North Carolina, Arizona, Hawaii, and Connecticut. While uniform, block, and tiered rate structures are commonly used by

## Pages

- [Home](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.17.3″ _module_preset=”default” use_background_color_gradient=”on” background_color_gradient_stops=”#ccedf5 20%|#daf4fb 100%” background_color_gradient_start=”#ccedf5″ background_color_gradient_start_position=”20%” background_color_gradient_end=”#daf4fb” custom_margin=”0px||0px||false|false” custom_padding=”0px||0px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.17.3″ _module_preset=”default” width=”100%” max_width=”100%” custom_margin=”0px||0px||false|false” custom_padding=”0px||0px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_code _builder_version=”4.17.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]Environmental Finance Center NetworkBuilding Capacity | Innovative Resources | Practical Assistance [/et_pb_code][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” use_background_color_gradient=”on” background_color_gradient_stops=”#ffffff 0%|#6ad4ee 100%” background_color_gradient_start=”#ffffff” background_color_gradient_end=”#6ad4ee” custom_margin=”-2px||0px||false|false” custom_padding=”0px||0px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_3,1_3,1_3″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” min_height=”418px”
- [The Future Water Leaders Program](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/future-water-leaders/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”section” _builder_version=”4.17.3″ background_color=”RGBA(255,255,255,0)” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_row admin_label=”row” _builder_version=”4.17.3″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.17.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”] Career paths are common topics for students from Kindergarten through High School, but jobs in the water utility industry aren’t often part of those conversations. The Future Water Leaders Program offers
- [Training & Events](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/training-events/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”section” _builder_version=”4.16″ use_background_color_gradient=”on” background_color_gradient_stops=”#ffffff 50%|#6ad4ee 100%” background_color_gradient_start=”#ffffff” background_color_gradient_start_position=”50%” background_color_gradient_end=”#6ad4ee” custom_padding=”81px||81px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”20px” text_line_height=”1.6em” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”] Our team of experts provides training across all 50 states and territories to help communities, water systems, and wastewater systems achieve their technical, managerial, and financial
- [Our Impact](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/about-the-network/our-impact/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”Intro” _builder_version=”4.17.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”0px||||false|false” collapsed=”on” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.17.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”] The EFCN creates lasting change one community at a time–starting with clean, safe water and how to pay for it. Our cutting-edge resources, hands-on training, and free professional services support thriving communities and
- [Resources for Utilities](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/resources/resources-for-utilities/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.17.3″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px|false|false” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_row column_structure=”2_3,1_3″ _builder_version=”4.17.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”0px|auto|-94px|auto|false|false” custom_padding=”||0px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”4.17.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.17.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”] Welcome to Resources for Utilities! Are you ready to help your water/wastewater utility find interns? Not sure how to start the process? Take a look at our generic templates to help get
- [Water Lesson Plans & Career Resources | Educators Resource Hub](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/resources/educators-resource-hub/) - Access free water lesson plans, educational resources, and career exploration tools for teaching the next generation of water leaders.
- [Funding Tables](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/resources/funding-tables/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.17.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”] Funding Sources By State Or Territory [/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.17.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”] We work with state and federal agencies to make sure that current funding opportunities are consolidated in one place. Click the map below to find
- [Get Help](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/get-help/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”Intro” _builder_version=”4.17.3″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”20px||20px||false|false” collapsed=”on” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.17.3″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”30px||30px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.17.3″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”||0px|||” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”] Tackle Your Technical, Managerial, and Financial Challenges: Services from the EFCN We offer free, customized support services to water and wastewater systems, decentralized systems, local governments, and others seeking technical, managerial,
- [Our Leadership](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/about-the-network/our-leadership/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.17.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”] Meet our team of Environmental Finance Center directors, representing all 50 U.S. states and its territories. [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_3,1_3,1_3″ _builder_version=”4.17.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_image src=”https://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/Martha-Sheils.jpg” title_text=”Martha-Sheils” url=”https://usm.maine.edu/cutler/martha-sheils” url_new_window=”on” _builder_version=”4.17.3″ _module_preset=”default” border_radii=”on|20px|20px|20px|20px” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][/et_pb_image][et_pb_text
- [About Us](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/about-the-network/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.17.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”] The Environmental Finance Center Network (EFCN) is a university- and non-profit-based organization creating innovative solutions to the difficult how-to-pay issues of environmental protection and environmental infrastructure. The EFCN works collectively and independently (as individual Environmental Finance
- [Water Leadership Program](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/water-leadership-program/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”section” _builder_version=”4.17.3″ background_color=”RGBA(255,255,255,0)” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_row admin_label=”row” _builder_version=”4.17.3″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.17.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”||0px|||” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”] The EFCN Water Leadership Program (WLP) helps enhance early and mid-career water professionals’ leadership skills and occupational knowledge. [/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.17.4″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ border_color_all=”RGBA(255,255,255,0)” border_width_bottom=”3px” border_style_bottom=”solid” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content” sticky_enabled=”0″ custom_padding=”0px||0px||false|false”] This
- [Expanding the Water Workforce](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/expanding-the-water-workforce/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”section” _builder_version=”4.17.3″ background_color=”RGBA(255,255,255,0)” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_row admin_label=”row” _builder_version=”4.17.3″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.17.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”] Across the environmental sector, communities and utilities are struggling to recruit and keep experienced staff. As older generations retire, ensuring that there is a pipeline of qualified candidates is a critical
- [Building TMF Capacity for Small Water Systems Project](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/building-tmf-capacity-for-small-water-systems-project/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ fullwidth=”on” _builder_version=”4.17.3″ _module_preset=”default” width=”100%” max_width=”100%” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_fullwidth_code _builder_version=”4.17.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”] [/et_pb_fullwidth_code][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.17.3″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”10px||10px||false|false” background_last_edited=”on|tablet” use_background_color_gradient_tablet=”on” background_color_gradient_direction_tablet=”180deg” background_color_gradient_stops_tablet=”#ffffff 0%|#c0eaf4 100%” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.17.3″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”||0px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.17.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.17.3″ _module_preset=”default” text_font=”|300|||||||” text_text_color=”#0D0D00″ text_font_size=”16px” header_2_font=”|300|||||||” header_2_text_color=”#064190″ header_2_font_size=”30px” header_3_font=”|300|||||||” header_3_font_size=”50px” global_colors_info=”{}”]Building TMF Capacity for Small Water Systems Project Building TMF Capacity for Small Water
- [Our Initiatives](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/h2olistic-initiatives/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”Logo and Intro” _builder_version=”4.17.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.17.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”] Environmental Problems Require Holistic Solutions [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_4,3_4″ make_equal=”on” _builder_version=”4.17.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” custom_css_main_element=”align-self: center;” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/holistic-initiative-logo.svg” alt=”H2Olistic Initiatives” title_text=”holistic-initiative-logo” admin_label=”Image” _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][/et_pb_image][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” custom_css_main_element=”align-self: center;” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.17.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”] We understand that
- [Multimedia Library](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/multimedia/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.17.3″ custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px|false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_5,2_5″ _builder_version=”4.17.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”3_5″ _builder_version=”4.17.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.17.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”30px||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”] There are countless ways to learn about environmental infrastructure. Our multimedia resources are here to increase your understanding of water finance and management and to inspire creative solutions in your utility or community. Read one of our blogs,
- [Venue Dashboard](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/venue-dashboard/) - [venue_dashboard]
- [Navigating Legal Pathways to Rate-Funded Customer Assistance Programs](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/resources/tools-and-publications/navigating-legal-pathways-to-rate-funded-customer-assistance-programs/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”]Navigating Legal Pathways to Rate-Funded Customer Assistance Programs summarizes the principal legal barriers and opportunities to establishing an assistance program for low-income water and wastewater utilities in each of the 50 states, as well as the U.S.
- [Event Dashboard](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/event-dashboard/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”section” _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row admin_label=”row” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”] You need to be signed in to manage your listings. Sign in [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]
- [Submit Venue Form](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/submit-venue-form-2/) - [submit_venue_form]
- [Submit Venue Form](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/submit-venue-form/) - [submit_venue_form]
- [MOST Center: Municipal Online Stormwater Training Center](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/most-center-municipal-online-stormwater-training-center/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”section” _builder_version=”4.16″ collapsed=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_4,1_4″ make_equal=”on” _builder_version=”4.17.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” custom_css_main_element=”align-self: center;” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.17.3″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”2px|||||” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″] The MOST Center is an online resource to help communities address major challenges to their water systems such as aging infrastructure, flooding, and climate resilience. The virtual platform works to eliminate barriers
- [Event Organizers](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/event-organizers/) - [et_pb_section admin_label=”section”] [et_pb_row admin_label=”row”] [et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text”] 10 Organizers 6 Available events All 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z A Averi Davis C Cristen Crew
- [Submit Organizer Form](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/submit-organizer-form/) - [et_pb_section admin_label=”section”] [et_pb_row admin_label=”row”] [et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text”]Please login as organizer to add organizer![/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column] [/et_pb_row] [/et_pb_section]
- [Post an Event](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/post-an-event/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”section” _builder_version=”4.15″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_row admin_label=”row” _builder_version=”4.15.1″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content” sticky_enabled=”0″][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.15″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” _builder_version=”4.15″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”] Have an account? Sign in You must sign in to create a new listing. Add Organizer x Organizer Details Organizer name* Logo (optional) Maximum file size: 100
- [Organizer Dashboard](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/organizer-dashboard/) - [et_pb_section admin_label=”section”] [et_pb_row admin_label=”row”] [et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text”] You need to be signed in to manage your organizer listings. Sign in [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column] [/et_pb_row] [/et_pb_section]
- [Past Training Locations](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/archives/past-training-locations/) - [et_pb_section][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text]This map represents the geographical location of workshops provided under the Smart Water for Small Water Systems Project, Round 1 (9/2012 – 4/2014). View SMSWS Workshop Locations in a larger map KEY: Pin Task Area # Workshops Provided States & Territories Asset Management 34 AK, AZ, CT, GA, GU, HI, ID, MA, MD, ME, MI, MO, MP, MS,
- [Round 1 - Work Summary by States, Territories, and the Navajo Nation](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/archives/round-1-work-summary-by-state/) - [et_pb_section][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text]Click the map below to see summaries of work completed by the Environmental Finance Network in your state under the Smart Management for Small Water Systems project. Additional Territories & Navajo Nation: American Samoa Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands Guam Navajo Nation Puerto Rico U.S. Virgin Islands [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]
- [Round 1 Summary test page](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/archives/round-1-summary-test-page/) - [et_pb_section][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text] [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]
- [Round 2 – Work Summaries](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/archives/round-2-work-summary-by-states-territories-and-the-navajo-nation/) - [et_pb_section][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text]Click the map below to see summaries of work completed by the Environmental Finance Center Network in your state under the Smart Management for Small Water Systems program, Round Two (7/1/14- 12/31/15). Additional Territories: Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands Guam Puerto Rico U.S. Virgin Islands [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]
- [Round 2- Past Training Locations](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/archives/round-2-past-training-locations/) - [et_pb_section][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text]This map represents the geographical location of workshops provided under the Smart Water for Small Water Systems Project, Round 2 (7/1/2014-12/31/2015). KEY: Pin Task Area # Workshops Provided States & Territories Asset Management 18 AR, DE, GA, GA, DE, IN, MO, ME, NE, NH, NM, OH, PA, SC, SD, WA, Seneca Nation, Navajo
- [Round 2- Where We've Provided Assistance](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/archives/round-2-where-weve-provided-assistance/) - [et_pb_section][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text]This map represents the geographical distribution of technical assistance being provided under the Smart Water for Small Water Systems Project, Round 2 (June 2014 – December 2015). [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]
- [Round 3- Work Summaries](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/archives/round-3-work-summaries/) - [et_pb_section][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text]Click the map below to see summaries of work completed by the Environmental Finance Center Network in your state under the Smart Management for Small Water Systems program, Round Three (8/1/15- 1/31/17). [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]
- [Round 4- Past Training Locations](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/archives/past-training-locations-2/) - [et_pb_section][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text]This map represents the geographical location of workshops provided under the Smart Water for Small Water Systems Project, Round 4 (July 2016-January 2018). [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]
- [Round 5- Past Training Locations](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/archives/round-5-past-training-locations/) - [et_pb_section][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text]This map represents the geographical location of workshops provided under the Smart Management for Small Water Systems Project, Round 5 (August 2017-January 2019). [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]
- [Where We've Provided Assistance](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/archives/provided-assistance-map/) - [et_pb_section][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text]This map represents the geographical distribution of technical assistance provided under the Smart Water for Small Water Systems Project, Round 1 (9/2012 – 4/2014). KEY: Pin Task Area # Assistance Provided States & Territories Asset Management 807 AK, AL, AZ, CA, CO, CT, FL, GA, HI, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA,
- [Assistance](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/assistance/) - [et_pb_section][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text]The Environmental Finance Center Network (EFCN) will provide direct assistance to water systems on the following topics: Asset Management Water Loss Reduction Water System Collaboration Financial Planning and Rate Setting Energy Efficiency Funding Coordination, and Managerial and Financial Leadership [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]
- [REQUEST ASSISTANCE](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/assistance/request-assistance/) - [et_pb_section][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text]Loading… [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]
- [Round 3- Where We've Provided Assistance Map](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/assistance/2014-2015-assistance-provided/) - [et_pb_section][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text]This map represents the geographical distribution of technical assistance being provided under the Smart Water for Small Water Systems Project, Round 3 (July 2015 – January 2017). [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]
- [Calendar](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/calendar/)
- [Documents](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/documents/) - [et_pb_section][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text]https://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/?post_type=document&p=439 [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]
- [Drought Preparedness](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/drought-preparedness/) - [et_pb_section][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text]With limited financial and technical resources, small water systems are particularly vulnerable to drought conditions. As longer and more frequent droughts become the norm, your system needs to be prepared. In our Drought Preparedness workshops, we will discuss how weather conditions may impact your utility, and specific strategies you can use to mitigate the impacts
- [Funding Sources by State or Territory](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/funding-sources-by-state/) - [et_pb_section][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text]Note: Some states or territories may have additional resources listed below the map.  Additional Funding Tables: American Samoa Water and Wastewater Funding Sources Commonwealth of Northern Mariana Islands Water and Wastewater Funding Sources Guam Water and Wastewater Funding Sources Navajo Nation Water and Wastewater Funding Sources Puerto Rico Water and Wastewater Funding Sources,
- [News](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/news/)
- [Funding Sources for Disaster Recovery](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/funding-for-disaster-recovery/) - [et_pb_section][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text]In light of the effects of recent natural disasters, the Environmental Finance Center at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill has aggregated a collection of funding options for disaster recovery within certain states and territories. These resources show funding from federal, state, and private agencies. Eligible uses of funds range from future
- [Locations Based Events - Test](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/locations-based-events-test/) - [et_pb_section][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text][locations_map country=”US” width=”600″ height=”400″scope=”future”] [locations_list] [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]
- [Map of Water and Wastewater Rates Dashboards](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/10966-2/) - [et_pb_section][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text]This map shows Water and Wastewater Rates Dashboards created by the EFCN:  These free, interactive online dashboards are designed to assist utility managers and local officials to compare and analyze water and wastewater rates against multiple characteristics, including utility finances, system characteristics, customer base socioeconomic conditions, geography, and history. The dashboards are used
- [Past Events](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/past-events/) - [et_pb_section][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text] = In Person Event = Webinar Enter past dates in the search box below to view past events. If you do not enter dates, only future events will appear in search results. CONTENTS To view older archived events, click here. [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]
- [Categories](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/past-events/categories/) - [et_pb_section][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text]CONTENTS [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]
- [Locations](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/past-events/locations/) - [et_pb_section][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text]CONTENTS [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]
- [My Bookings](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/past-events/my-bookings/) - [et_pb_section][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text]CONTENTS [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]
- [Tags](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/past-events/tags/) - [et_pb_section][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text]CONTENTS [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]
- [Portfolio](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/portfolio/)
- [Do-It-Yourself Tools](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/resources/tools/) - [et_pb_section][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text]These tools assist small water systems in their financial planning. Please feel free to download and use them. If you have questions, please contact Shadi Eskaf. [pt_view id=”fa0b9c9783″][/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]
- [EFCN Coronavirus Resources](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/resources/efcn-coronavirus-resources/) - [et_pb_section][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text]Last Updated October 14, 2020 In these uncertain times, small water systems are facing difficult decisions about how to maintain operations and ensure financial sustainability, while providing essential services to the public and limiting personal interactions during the COVID-19 outbreak. We’ve heard your concerns and are doing all we can to address your questions.
- [Publications](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/resources/publications/) - [et_pb_section][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text] [pt_view id=”32aea3beb0″][/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]
- [Round 4- Work Summaries](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/round-4-work-summaries/) - [et_pb_section][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text]Click the map below to see summaries of work completed by the Environmental Finance Center Network in your state under the Smart Management for Small Water Systems program, Round Four (8/1/16- 1/31/19). Additional Territories: Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]
- [Round 6 Training Locations](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/round-6-training-locations-2/) - [et_pb_section][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text]This map represents the geographical location of workshops provided under the Smart Management for Small Water Systems Project, Round 6.  [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]
- [Smart Management for Small Water Systems Project](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/small-systems-project/) - [et_pb_section][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text][cs_content][cs_section parallax=”false” separator_top_type=”none” separator_top_height=”50px” separator_top_angle_point=”50″ separator_bottom_type=”none” separator_bottom_height=”50px” separator_bottom_angle_point=”50″ style=”margin: 0px;padding: 45px 0px;”][cs_row inner_container=”true” marginless_columns=”false” style=”margin: 0px auto;padding: 0px;”][cs_column fade=”false” fade_animation=”in” fade_animation_offset=”45px” fade_duration=”750″ type=”2/3″ style=”padding: 0px;”][cs_text]The Smart Management for Small Water Systems Project seeks to address major issues facing the nation’s smallest drinking water systems (those serving 10,000 or fewer people). Our team of experts
- [Asset Management](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/small-systems-project/asset-management/) - [et_pb_section][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text]In our asset management workshops, you will learn about how asset management can benefit your system. Not sure where to begin? We will provide you with the tools you need to get started and will walk you through the process. With limited revenues, aging infrastructure, and regulatory obligations to meet, a comprehensive approach to
- [Climate Resiliency](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/small-systems-project/climate-resiliency/) - [et_pb_section][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text]Natural disasters can take out critical infrastructure, and too much or too little precipitation can threaten water system financial sustainability, if not anticipated. This training will provided ways to plan for climate impacts effectively that involve asset management, financial planning, leadership, and water loss detection and elimination. Available Services: The EFCN can offer classroom
- [Disaster Preparedness](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/small-systems-project/disaster-preparedness/) - [et_pb_section][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text]Now more than ever, water utilities must learn to be resilient in the face of an uncertain future. We will discuss potential extreme weather and climate disruptions in your region. We will also give you tools to identify risks and manage and plan for impacts. In our Resiliency workshops, you will learn: – How
- [Energy Management](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/small-systems-project/energy-efficiency-implementation-assistance/) - [et_pb_section][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text]Energy is the largest controllable cost of providing water services. Energy can be as high as 40 percent of operating costs, and those costs will likely increase 20% over the next 15 years. Now is the time to look at your energy use and take action. In this workshop, you will learn how to:
- [Enhancing Regulatory Compliance](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/small-systems-project/enhancing-regulatory-compliance/) - [et_pb_section][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text]In many states and territories, small water systems are required to submit mandatory water plans, and, in others, many systems must have rate structure changes approved by the Public Utilities Commission or similar body. The EFCN Team will work with systems to ensure their response to regulatory mandates reflects the principles of sustainable finance
- [Fiscal Planning & Rate Setting](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/small-systems-project/fiscal-planning-and-rate-setting/) - [et_pb_section][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text]You work hard to provide safe, quality drinking water to your customers at fair rates. But how are your finances? Our Fiscal Planning and Rate Setting workshops will provide you with the tools to improve the fiscal health of your utility without compromising service or deferring maintenance. You will learn how to: – Control
- [Funding Coordination](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/small-systems-project/assistance-with-access-to-multiple-funding-sources/) - [et_pb_section][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text]There are several federal and state programs that provide funding for water infrastructure projects. In this workshop, you will learn about specific financing programs from representatives from the relevant programs in your state. The workshop also includes information on best management practices to strengthen your utility’s funding application. Discover how asset management, rate setting,
- [Managerial & Financial Leadership](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/small-systems-project/managerial-and-financial-leadership/) - [et_pb_section][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text]Successful employees need strong communication skills to influence attitudes and get things done. Regardless of your position, leadership occurs at every level of a water system. In our Leadership workshops, you will learn how to: – Communicate with the public, your board, regulatory, and funding agencies – Build support for decisions involving rates, budgets,
- [Water Loss Reduction](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/small-systems-project/water-loss/) - [et_pb_section][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text]Our Water Loss workshops will show you how to identify non-revenue water categories and how to take the first step of developing a water loss control program. You will learn how to: – Understand the water balance – Complete a water audit – How to Identify data sources, collect, and evaluate the data –
- [Workforce Planning](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/small-systems-project/workforce-planning/) - [et_pb_section][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text]Small water systems are struggling to recruit and keep experienced staff. What will happen when your utility’s long-term operator or manager retires? Who knows all that they know? This workshop will focus on succession planning, operator recruitment, and staff retention strategies. We will discuss links between workforce development, system sustainability, and long-term planning. In
- [Where We've Provided Assistance](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/weve-provided-assistance/) - [et_pb_section][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text]This map represents the geographical distribution of technical assistance being provided under the Smart Water for Small Water Systems Project, Round 4 (July 2016 – January 2018). [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]
- [Upcoming Events](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/upcoming-events/) - [et_pb_section][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text][locations_map country=”all” scope=”future” width=”100%”] = In Person Event = Webinar [events_list order=”asc”][/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]
- [Round 3- Past Training Locations](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/trainings/past-training-locations/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”]This map represents the geographical location of workshops provided under the Smart Water for Small Water Systems Project, Round 3 (July 2015-January 2017). [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]
- [Registration Groton CT](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/trainings/registration-groton-ct/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”]Please see details and registration here. [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]
- [E-Learning Modules](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/trainings/e-learning-modules/) - [et_pb_section][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text]As part of its continued effort to provide resources and training to small water systems, the Environmental Finance Network is creating E-Learning modules on finance and management topics for system managers. E-Learning modules provide training through pre-recorded content. You will be able to access the content, watch presentations, complete quizzes and exercises, and access
- [Trainings](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/trainings/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”]The Environmental Finance Center Network (EFCN) will hold in-person training sessions for water utilities in all U.S. States, and territories. Training topics will include: Asset Management Water Loss Reduction Fiscal Planning and Rate Setting, and Funding Coordination
- [Where We've Provided Assistance-Round 6](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/where-weve-provided-assistance-round-6/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”section” _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_row admin_label=”row” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” _builder_version=”4.17.3″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content” sticky_enabled=”0″] This map represents the geographical distribution of technical assistance being provided under the Smart Management for Small Water Systems Project, Round 6. [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]
- [Vulnerability, Risk, and Resilience](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/vulnerability-risk-and-resilience/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”section” _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row admin_label=”row” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.17.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”] The EFCN encourages local governments, water and wastewater systems, and planning groups to take holistic and proactive approach that: looks to asset management, collaboration, and other cost saving measures; integrates long-term drinking water, wastewater, stormwater, and
- [Water System Collaboration](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/small-systems-project/water-system-collaboration/) - [et_pb_section admin_label=”section”] [et_pb_row admin_label=”row”] [et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text”]Running a small system can be challenging. Along with meeting regulatory obligations and satisfying customer expectations, you may have issues with aging infrastructure, lack of personnel, and limited financial resources. Furthermore, small systems often cost more to operate per capita than large systems because of economy of scale. This
- [Serving Tribal Communities](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/serving-tribal-communities/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”section” _builder_version=”4.17.3″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_row admin_label=”row” _builder_version=”4.17.3″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.17.3″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content” sticky_enabled=”0″] We at the Environmental Finance Center Network serve tribal communities by providing no-cost training and technical assistance to small water and wastewater systems in Tribes across the nation. The tools
- [Tools & Publications](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/resources/tools-and-publications/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.17.3″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px|false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.17.3″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px|false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_code _builder_version=”4.17.3″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px|false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]See Description of the Types of ResourcesDashboardsInfohubPublicationsToolsThe EFCN’s dashboards are interactive, data-driven platforms that support users in comparing multiple indicators relevant to a water or wastewater utility’s performance.Our publications offer cutting-edge analysis on a variety of pressing issues,
- [Resources](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/resources/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”section” _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row admin_label=”row” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding=”12px|||||”] Are you looking to better understand the financial challenges of managing environmental infrastructure? Identify a grant or loan? Assess or define a benchmark? We can help! Navigate to our resources below. [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section
- [Environmental Finance Center Network | Privacy Policy](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/privacy-policy/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.17.3″ width=”80%” max_width=”1304px” module_alignment=”center” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.17.3″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” custom_padding=”9px|||||” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″] The Environmental Finance Center Network (EFCN) is committed to protecting the privacy needs of users of efcnetwork.org (the “Site”), subscribers to our mailing lists, and participants in our surveys, webinars
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- [Test Page](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/test-page/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.17.3″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content” sticky_enabled=”0″] Test 12 adipiscing elit. In tempor nunc eget lorem mollis fringilla. Integer volutpat felis turpis, vel venenatis risus convallis et. Praesent tincidunt nibh ac sem vehicula maximus. Quisque tempor commodo
- [test](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/test-2/)
- [test](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/test/)
- [Archived Events](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/trainings/archived-events/) - [catlist name="events" numberposts=50 pagination=yes customfield_orderby=Date order=desc]
- [Advanced Search](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/advanced-search/) - [acps_results]

## Events

- [AR Online Training | What Is an IUP? How Intended Use Plans Can Serve as Secret Decoder Rings for the State Revolving Loan Funds (SRFs)](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/event/ak-online-training-what-is-an-iup-how-intended-use-plans-can-serve-as-secret-decoder-rings-for-the-state-revolving-loan-funds-srfs/) - Description: This engaging and informative session will dive deep into the concept of Intended Use Plans (IUPs) and explore how they act as key tools for navigating and unlocking the potential of State Revolving Loan Funds (SRFs). SRFs provide financing to support environmental infrastructure projects, and understanding how to interpret and leverage IUPs can significantly
- [Virtual Office Hours | Ask Me Anything: SRF Technical Assistance & Open Discussion](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/event/srfofficehours/) - Description: Join experts from Quantified Ventures for Ask Me Anything SRF Office Hours. Designed to expand your knowledge and enhance your ability to navigate the SRFs. These sessions are tailored for state agencies, utility operators, and stakeholders who support water infrastructure projects. Each session will open with a specific theme, providing clarity, strategies, and practical
- [Webinar | Finding a Unicorn! Small Wastewater System Funding Series | Office Hours: Indirect Rates and Closeout](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/event/webinar-finding-a-unicorn-small-wastewater-system-funding-series-office-hours-indirect-rates-and-closeout/) - Successfully securing and managing federal funding for publicly owned and decentralized wastewater treatment systems is no small task, especially with shifting program priorities and uncertainty about future allocations. This no-cost webinar series from the Capacity Collaborative will guide participants through the entire funding process: where to find nationally available funding, how to craft competitive proposals,
- [Webinar | Finding a Unicorn! Small Wastewater System Funding Series: Award Closeout & Single Audits](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/event/webinar-finding-a-unicorn-small-wastewater-system-funding-series-award-closeout-single-audits/) - Successfully securing and managing federal funding for publicly owned and decentralized wastewater treatment systems is no small task, especially with shifting program priorities and uncertainty about future allocations. This no-cost webinar series from the Capacity Collaborative will guide participants through the entire funding process: where to find nationally available funding, how to craft competitive proposals,
- [Webinar | Finding a Unicorn! Small Wastewater System Funding Series: Negotiating Indirect Rate Agreements](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/event/webinar-finding-a-unicorn-small-wastewater-system-funding-series-negotiating-indirect-rate-agreements/) - Successfully securing and managing federal funding for publicly owned and decentralized wastewater treatment systems is no small task, especially with shifting program priorities and uncertainty about future allocations. This no-cost webinar series from the Capacity Collaborative will guide participants through the entire funding process: where to find nationally available funding, how to craft competitive proposals,
- [Webinar | Finding a Unicorn! Small Wastewater System Funding Series | Office Hours: Awards and Procurement](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/event/webinar-finding-a-unicorn-small-wastewater-system-funding-series-office-hours-federal-grants-and-srf-2/) - Successfully securing and managing federal funding for publicly owned and decentralized wastewater treatment systems is no small task, especially with shifting program priorities and uncertainty about future allocations. This no-cost webinar series from the Capacity Collaborative will guide participants through the entire funding process: where to find nationally available funding, how to craft competitive proposals,

## Organizers

- [Cristen Crew](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/event-organizer/cristen-crew/) - Program Associate at the Syracuse University Environmental Finance Center
- [Tess Clark](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/event-organizer/tess-clark/) - Program Manager at the Syracuse University Environmental Finance Center
- [Averi Davis](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/event-organizer/averi-davis/) - Program Associate at the Syracuse University Environmental Finance Center
- [Jes Eckerlin](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/event-organizer/jes-eckerlin/) - Project Associate at the Syracuse University Environmental Finance Center
- [Ella Ban](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/event-organizer/ella-ban/) - Environmental Specialist at the Environmental Finance Center at Sacramento State.
- [Keri Lewis](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/event-organizer/keri-lewis/) - Program Manager at the Mississippi Water Resources Research Institute.
- [Michelle Kokolis](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/event-organizer/michelle-kokolis/) - University of Maryland Environmental Finance Center
- [VOCO Joe](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/event-organizer/voco-joe/)
- [MTU Center for Technology & Training](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/event-organizer/mtu-center-for-technology-training/)
- [Environmental Finance Center Network](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/event-organizer/environmental-finance-center-network/)

## Layouts

- [Title Banner](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/et_pb_layout/title-banner/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.17.4″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”RGBA(255,255,255,0)” background_image=”https://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/header-waves-tablet.png” background_size=”stretch” background_position=”bottom_center” background_vertical_offset=”0%” custom_margin=”||||false|false” custom_padding=”47px||63px||false|false” template_type=”section” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”et_body_layout”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.17.4″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”RGBA(255,255,255,0)” background_enable_image=”off” background_size=”stretch” background_position=”bottom_center” module_alignment=”center” custom_margin=”||||false|false” custom_padding=”||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”et_body_layout”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”RGBA(255,255,255,0)” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”et_body_layout”][et_pb_post_title meta=”off” featured_image=”off” _builder_version=”4.17.4″ _module_preset=”default” title_font=”|300|||||||” title_text_align=”left” title_text_color=”#ffffff” title_font_size=”50px” title_line_height=”1.1em” background_color=”RGBA(255,255,255,0)” text_orientation=”center” title_font_size_tablet=”” title_font_size_phone=”43px” title_font_size_last_edited=”on|phone” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”et_body_layout”][/et_pb_post_title][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.17.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”et_body_layout”][/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]
- [Header](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/et_pb_layout/header/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”Section” _builder_version=”4.16″ template_type=”section” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”et_body_layout”][/et_pb_section]
- [Testimonial](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/et_pb_layout/testimonial/) - [et_pb_testimonial job_title=”Chairman & Operator” quote_icon_color=”#5E94EB” quote_icon_background_color=”#FFFFFF” font_icon=”|||divi||400″ portrait_width=”0px” portrait_height=”0px” use_icon_font_size=”on” icon_font_size=”40px” icon_font_size_tablet=”58px” icon_font_size_phone=”47px” icon_font_size_last_edited=”on|phone” admin_label=”row” _builder_version=”4.17.3″ _module_preset=”default” body_font=”Roboto Slab||on||||||” body_text_color=”#064190″ body_font_size=”18px” body_line_height=”1.8em” position_font=”|||on|||||” position_line_height=”2.4em” background_color=”RGBA(255,255,255,0)” background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” text_orientation=”center” custom_margin=”60px||60px||false|false” custom_margin_tablet=”” custom_margin_phone=”” custom_margin_last_edited=”on|phone” custom_padding=”|||” animation_style=”slide” animation_direction=”bottom” hover_enabled=”0″ position_font_size_tablet=”” position_font_size_phone=”” position_font_size_last_edited=”on|phone” border_width_top=”1px” border_color_top=”#5E94EB” border_color_bottom=”#5E94EB” saved_tabs=”all” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content” sticky_enabled=”0″ template_type=”module”] The class helped me to set up
- [2 Column - Photo Right](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/et_pb_layout/2-column-photo-right/) - [et_pb_module_placeholder selected_tabs=”all”]
- [2-Column Image / Text](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/et_pb_layout/2-column-image-text/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.17.3″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”RGBA(255,255,255,0)” use_background_color_gradient=”on” background_color_gradient_stops=”#c7f3fe 0%|#ecfafd 99%” custom_margin=”10px||10px||false|false” custom_padding=”0px||0px||false|false” template_type=”section” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ use_custom_gutter=”on” make_equal=”on” _builder_version=”4.17.3″ _module_preset=”default” width=”100%” max_width=”100%” custom_padding=”0px||0px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” custom_css_main_element=”align-self: center;” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/water-system-facility.jpg” alt=”Water System Facility” title_text=”water-system-facility” _builder_version=”4.17.3″ _module_preset=”default” animation_style=”slide” animation_direction=”left” animation_intensity_slide=”15%” global_colors_info=”{}”][/et_pb_image][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.17.3″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”20px|20%|20px||false|false” custom_padding_tablet=”20px|60px|44px|60px|false|false” custom_padding_phone=”|36px||36px|false|false” custom_padding_last_edited=”on|phone” custom_css_main_element=”align-self: center;” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”] Building TMF Capacity
- [Project Leadership](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/et_pb_layout/project-leadership/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”section” _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row admin_label=”row” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]
- [Counter 1](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/et_pb_layout/counter-1-2/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.15.1″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” saved_tabs=”all” template_type=”section”][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_4,1_4″ _builder_version=”4.15.1″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.15.1″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.15.1″ _module_preset=”default” header_3_text_align=”left” header_3_text_color=”#064190″ header_3_font_size=”27px” global_colors_info=”{}”] WATER AND WASTEWATERPROFESSIONALS TRAINED [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ _builder_version=”4.15.1″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/man.svg” title_text=”man” _builder_version=”4.15.1″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][/et_pb_image][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]
- [Counter 1](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/et_pb_layout/counter-1/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ theme_builder_area=”post_content” _builder_version=”4.15.1″ _module_preset=”default” template_type=”section”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.15.1″ _module_preset=”default” column_structure=”1_4,3_4″ custom_margin=”|auto|59px|auto||” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_column _builder_version=”4.15.1″ _module_preset=”default” type=”1_4″ theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.15.1″ _module_preset=”default” transform_rotate=”359deg|0deg|270deg” hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″ text_orientation=”center” text_font=”|700|||||||” text_text_color=”#064190″ text_font_size=”43px” theme_builder_area=”post_content”] OVER [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column _builder_version=”4.15.1″ _module_preset=”default” type=”3_4″ theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_number_counter number=”32,000″ _builder_version=”4.15.1″ _module_preset=”default” percent_sign=”off” text_orientation=”left” number_font=”|300|||||||” number_text_color=”#1B7345″ number_font_size=”136px” hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″ custom_margin=”-20px||||false|false” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][/et_pb_number_counter][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.15.1″ _module_preset=”default” theme_builder_area=”post_content” column_structure=”3_4,1_4″][et_pb_column _builder_version=”4.15.1″ _module_preset=”default” type=”3_4″ theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.15.1″ _module_preset=”default” theme_builder_area=”post_content” header_3_text_align=”left”

## Tools & Publications

- [Requests for Proposals: When to Dive In and When to Pass on Grants](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/requests-for-proposals-when-to-dive-in-and-when-to-pass-on-grants/) - This interactive tool is meant to help organizations and local governments decide if a Request for Proposals (RFP) is a good fit for them.
- [Water Utility Resilience Readiness Tool](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/tools-for-utility-resilience-readiness/) - Resilience isn’t just about bouncing back from a disaster—it’s about being prepared before anything goes wrong. Many threats to water service continuity, from cyberattacks to staffing shortages, don’t come with warning signs. That’s why building resilience means strengthening your day-to-day operations, not just your emergency plans. The Water Utility Resilience Readiness Tool was developed to
- [Calculating Chlorine Dosage, Feed Rate, and Residual - Chlorination Estimator](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/calculating-chlorine-dosage-feed-rate-and-residual-chlorination-estimator/) - Calculating Chlorine Dosage, Feed Rate and Residual Chlorine is a useful disinfectant for wastewater treatment and can be introduced in liquid, gas, or solid form. The required chlorine dosage for wastewater treatment depends on a variety of factors including the chlorine demand of the wastewater, the availability of de-chlorination, detention time, and regulatory limits for
- [Health Effects of PFAS Exposure](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/health-effects-of-pfas-exposure/) - This educational resource aims to convey the connections between PFAS and various health conditions. Known as “forever chemicals,” per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances are used in many chemical and manufacturing processes. Human exposure to PFAS can occur through air, food, water, dust, soil, food packaging, cosmetics, and personal care items. PFAS has been associated with serious
- [PFAS and Water Contamination](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/pfas-and-water-contamination/) - This educational resource acts as a central hub for information on both PFAS exposure and PFAS contamination in drinking water. There are around 5,000 chemicals categorized as PFAS. Though they have been produced since the 1940s, it wasn't until they were discovered in drinking water in 2001 that their health and environmental risks became widely
- [Asset Management Switchboard](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/asset-management-switchboard-2/) - The Southwest Environmental Finance Center has partnered with EPA to create a repository of documentation and tools related to Asset Management. Whether you are new to the Asset Management process or just need a refresher on a specific topic, the resource you are looking for is probably available on the Asset Management Switchboard. If you’re
- [Water Operator Training Resources to Rural Libraries Pilot Program](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/library-resources-program/) - “No operators, no water.” – American Water Works Association Expanding access to water operator training materials is critical to the operations and maintenance of our small rural water systems. Many aspiring water operators, however, do not have access to training materials because they are too expensive. The recommended textbooks for water operator certification exams
- [Tools for Utility Risk and Resilience Planning: A Guided Inventory](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/tools-for-utility-risk-and-resilience-planning-a-guided-inventory/) - Service delivery interruptions due to unforeseen events can be inconvenient or costly at best, and dangerous at worst. Luckily, there are many free tools and resources available to help you get started with basic steps towards a more resilient and prepared utility or system. Strengthening your basic business functions is the foundation for resilience—it is
- [Discover the Wastewater InfoHub: Onsite and Centralized Wastewater Solutions](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/discover-the-wastewater-infohub-onsite-and-centralized-wastewater-solutions/) - Created by the Southwest Environmental Finance Center, this resource is your one stop shop for resources related to your wastewater needs. This platform features resources associated with On-site Decentralized Wastewater (ODWW) Systems and Centralized Conventional Wastewater Treatment (WWTW) Systems for small or privately owned wastewater systems across the United States and its Territories.
- [Webinar: Water Audits and Water Loss Control: Gathering Your Data](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/webinar-water-audits-water-loss-control-gathering-data/) - Completing a water audit or determining the categories of your non- revenue water may seem like a daunting task. The hardest part by far is just getting started. The first step is finding and collecting your data. Knowing what data you need, where to look for it, what some of the potential issues with the
- [Affordability Chapter from Defining a Resilient Business Model for Water Utilities](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/defining-a-resilient-business-model-for-water-utilities/) - This project helps utilities address the challenges of revenue gaps, which are exacerbated by rising customer expectations, declining water consumption, aging infrastructure, and necessary integration of utility finance functions with asset management, environmental justice, risk management, and other initiatives. The products of this project lay the groundwork for a shift in thinking by utilities to
- [Handbook on Wastewater Management for Local Representatives](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/handbook-on-wastewater-management-for-local-representatives/) - This wastewater management handbook is designed to be a reference tool for local officials, public administrators, and managers. In addition to the basic treatment operations, this handbook will discuss the strategies to ensure compliance, funding, adequate training, and public education. This reference will also help public officials familiarize themselves with financial management tools, loan and
- [New Tool Helps Utilities Assess the Affordability of Water and Wastewater Service](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/new-tool-helps-utilities-assess-the-affordability-of-water-and-wastewater-service/) - This blog post, written by Glenn Barnes, a Senior Project Director at the Environmental Finance Center at UNC-Chapel Hill, highlights the Water and Wastewater Residential Rates Affordability Assessment tool. The tool allows water systems to assess the affordability of water and wastewater service at new and current rates. The Excel-based tool is available free to
- [Water Savings in the Southeast](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/water-savings-in-the-southeast/) - EFC at UNC conducts annual water and wastewater rates surveys for all local utility providers to determine water savings opportunities in the Southeast. Using comprehensive rate data, this data visualization explores and compares the financial savings associated with water efficient technology in North Carolina and Georgia.
- [The Painful Art of Setting Water and Sewer Rates](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/the-painful-art-of-setting-water-and-sewer-rates/) - The challenges of providing safe drinking water and environmentally sound wastewater services have undeniably become as much about financial management as about treatment technologies. This article describes the big picture context setting water and sewer rates while considering the environment in which rates are set. Also included are practical examples for utility managers and public
- [Technical Assistance Resources in Puerto Rico](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/puerto-rico-technical-assistance-resources/) - Due to the 2017 hurricane events, the EFC at UNC created a spreadsheet that provides water utilities a list of organizations providing technical assistance resources in Puerto Rico for post-disaster recovery. Organizations range from non-profit entities to federal agencies. Puerto Rico Technical Assistance Resources (EN), English version Puerto Rico Technical Assistance Resources (ES), Spanish version
- [Best Practices in Water Loss Control: Improved Concepts for 21st Century Water Management](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/best-practice-in-water-loss-control-improved-concepts-for-21st-century-water-management/) - In 2003, the American Water Works Association (AWWA) adopted improved best practices in water loss control and methods for defining and measuring water loss in water distribution systems. This transition into a new era of effective water management marked a departure from previous terms and practices no longer useful to the industry. The following explains
- [Leak Repair Data Collection Guide](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/leak-repair-data-collection-guide/) - The Leak Repair Data Collection Guide is an open source MS Office Excel spreadsheet designed to aid the industry in collecting consistent failure data. This tool offers guidance to water utilities in the form of a standardized format to document failure events; thereby generating the appropriate data to execute a reliable leakage component analysis. Utilities
- [Understanding the Financial Position of Households Using the American Community Survey](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/understanding-the-financial-position-of-households-using-the-american-community-survey/) - This blog post was written by Glenn Barnes, a Senior Project Director at the Environmental Finance Center at UNC- Chapel Hill. The post explains how to use the American Community Survey from the US Census to help with better understanding the financial position of households within a community. This can be particularly helpful in understanding
- [Water and Wastewater Residential Rates Affordability Assessment Tool](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/water-wastewater-residential-rates-affordability-assessment-tool/) - There are many ways to assess affordability of residential rates. A common metric is to compute the proportion of the Median Household Income of the community that would be spent on a year's worth of "average bills" (termed Percent MHI). This is one metric, but is not the only metric by which the affordability of
- [Drinking Water and Wastewater Infrastructure in Appalachia: An Analysis of Capital Funding and Funding Gaps](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/drinking-water-and-wastewater-infrastructure-in-appalachia-an-analysis-of-capital-funding-and-funding-gaps/) - This report to the Appalachian Regional Commission analyzes the drinking water and wastewater infrastructure needs in the 410-county Appalachian region, the existing federal and state funding sources for capital projects, and the financial gap between the needs and existing funding sources. The report describes alternative investment requirements and financial strategies to meet those needs given
- [Enhancing Performance of Small Water Systems through Shared Management](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/enhancing-performance-of-small-water-systems-through-shared-management/) - This paper explores enhancing performance of small water systems through shared management by identifying opportunities to enhance management capacity for small community water systems through cooperative (shared) management. This paper provides a background on various aspects of small water systems, performance, and regionalization in North Carolina, before exploring the shared management regionalization alternative. We identify
- [Crafting Inter-Local Water Agreements: Tips Relating to Issues You May Not Have Thought of or that You Were Hoping to Avoid](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/crafting-inter-local-water-agreements-tips-relating-to-issues-you-may-not-have-thought-of-or-that-you-were-hoping-to-avoid/) - Based on a comprehensive review of inter-local water agreements in North Carolina, this guidance document reviews tips relating to issues utility managers need to be aware of before and while entering into an agreement with another utility. Many of these tips apply to creating a water purchase agreement, whether or regular use or for emergency
- [Crafting Interlocal Water and Wastewater Agreements: A Condensed Guide](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/crafting-interlocal-water-and-wastewater-agreements-a-condensed-guide/) - In practice, the EFC has seen interlocal agreements ranging from one page to over 30 pages. Longer is not always better, but the considerations laid out in this guidance document are a good starting point for identifying the types of things that should be included when drafting a new agreement or redrafting an existing one.
- [Crafting Interlocal Water and Wastewater Agreements](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/crafting-interlocal-agreements/) - In practice, the EFCs have seen interlocal water and wastewater agreements ranging from one page to over 30 pages. Longer is not always better, but the considerations laid out in this guidance document are a good starting point for identifying the types of things that should be included when drafting a new agreement or redrafting
- [Summaries of Selected Federal and State Funding Programs for Water and Wastewater Infrastructure in Appalachia](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/summaries-of-selected-federal-and-state-funding-programs-for-water-and-wastewater-infrastructure-in-appalachia/) - A description of major agencies offering federal and state funding for water and wastewater infrastructure assisting utilities in the Appalachian region.
- [Comparison of Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF) Programs and other Federal Assistance to Programs in Disadvantaged Communities in EPA Region 4](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/comparison-of-drinking-water-state-revolving-fund-dwsrf-programs-and-other-federal-assistance-to-disadvantaged-communities-in-epa-region-4/) - This paper collects and analyzes information on state revolving fund programs with a special focus on how states in EPA Region 4 have chosen to implement programs in disadvantaged communities.
- [Borrowing for the Big Stuff: Types of Water Debt in North Carolina](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/borrowing-for-the-big-stuff-types-of-water-debt-in-north-carolina/) - This article reviews the use of different types of water debt used to pay for water and wastewater infrastructure in North Carolina.
- [Review of State Infrastructure Funding Coordination Models](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/review-of-state-infrastructure-funding-coordination-models/) - The document provides a review of state infrastructure coordination models. In many states, several agencies providing loans and grants to water and wastewater utilities for capital projects, each with its own rules and administration. States have taken different approaches to coordinate these programs. This report summarizes that informal and formal approaches adopted at six states:
- [An Introduction to the Energy Star Portfolio Manager Tool](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/an-introduction-to-energy-stars-portfolio-manager-tool/) - A no-cost, interactive webinar to introduce U.S. EPA’s recently upgraded ENERGY STAR® Portfolio Manager® tool and ENERGY STAR Cash Flow Opportunity Calculator. This webinar was offered by the Environmental Finance Center at UNC Chapel Hill in partnership with the U.S. EPA’s ENERGY STAR program. The webinar features EPA’s ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager tool, a powerful online tool that can help you
- [What to Include in Your Capital Plan: A Reference Guide](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/what-to-include-in-your-capital-plan-a-reference-guide-for-nc-water-and-wastewater-utilities/) - View Reference Guide This is a reference guide that lists the requirements and recommendations of elements to include in your capital plan (CIP and/or Asset Management Plan), as suggested by a collection of best practice guides, funding agency applications, reporting forms, and software and tools. Although the reference guide, which may be updated occasionally, has
- [Video: Understanding Life Cycle Cost](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/video-understanding-life-cycle-cost/) - When making purchases for your drinking water system, it can seem easiest to go with the cheapest option. But the initial cost is not the only factor to take into consideration. Life cycle cost considers initial cost as well as the cost installation, management, repairs, removal, and more in order to give a more accurate
- [Combined Sewer Overflows - Guidance for Financial Capability Assessment and Schedule Development](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/combined-sewer-overflows-guidance-for-financial-capability-assessment-and-schedule-development/) - Jeff Hughes serves as an expert witness to the EPA Environmental Advisory Board and was the lead contributor to EFAB's report titled "Comments on EPA Document: Combined Sewer Overflows - Guidance for Financial Capability Assessment and Schedule Development". View Article
- [The State of Full Cost Pricing: Full Cost Pricing Among Public Water and Sewer Utilities in the Southeast](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/the-state-of-full-cost-pricing-full-cost-pricing-among-public-water-and-sewer-utilities-in-the-southeast/) - This article provides an examination of "full cost pricing" practices using rates, revenues and expenditures data for nearly 900 utilities in Georgia and North Carolina, results of focus groups and communications with technical assistance providers on pricing attitudes and practices, and case studies from direct technical assistance on financial management provided to some communities.
- [Communicating on Drought Surcharges](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/communicating-on-drought-surcharges/) - This paper contains results from focus groups and interviews to gauge common themes of customer and City Council member perspectives on hypothetical drought surcharges in Mecklenburg County, North Carolina. Insight from this research can help utilities in their consideration, development and communication about drought surcharges in their own communities.
- [Utility Financing Confusion](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/utility-financing-confusion/) - This article explores customer misunderstanding of utility financing and the problems that can cause for utility managers.
- [Recovering the Price of Partnership: Capital Cost Recovery Methods in Water Purchasing Agreements](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/recovering-the-price-of-partnership-capital-cost-recovery-methods-in-water-purchasing-agreements/) - This capstone provides answers to common inquiries regarding capital cost recovery methods. We close the informational gap by addressing the following questions: How do utilities in North Carolina recover capital costs through water purchasing agreements? Is a minimum purchase of water required? Are capital costs dealt with up-front or annually? Utilizing research and data collected
- [Communication at your Fingertips: Using Billing Data to Get to Know Your Customers](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/communication-at-your-fingertips-using-billing-data-to-get-to-know-your-customers/) - This article reviews how utilities can analyze their billing data to understand about the different types of customers that they serve, and tailor communications to the different groups of customers more appropriately.
- [Rural and Small Systems Guidebook to Sustainable Utility Management](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/rural-and-small-systems-guidebook-to-sustainable-utility-management-2/)
- [Residential Water and Wastewater Connection Fees in North Carolina as of January 2015](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/tap-fees-and-system-development-charges-for-residential-water-and-wastewater-connections-in-north-carolina-as-of-january-2009/) - These tables provide the results of a statewide survey of the initial, one-time fees that North Carolina utilities charge residential homes that connect to their water and/or wastewater (sewer) systems for the first time. The survey includes 464 NC utilities owned by local governments, not-for-profit associations, and for-profit entities. View Report
- [Water and Wastewater Rates and Rate Structures in Georgia](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/water-and-sewer-rates-and-rate-structures-in-georgia/) - View Report This report details the results of a survey of water, wastewater and residential irrigation rates and rate structures in Georgia current as of July 2016 conducted by the state Environmental Finance Authority and the Environmental Finance Center at the UNC School of Government. Water and wastewater rates and rate structures in Georgia are
- [Water and Wastewater Rates and Rate Structures in North Carolina](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/water-and-wastewater-rates-and-rate-structures-in-north-carolina-pdf/) - View Report This annual report details the results of a statewide survey of water and wastewater rates and rate structures in North Carolina conducted by the local League of Municipalities and the Environmental Finance Center in 2017. Residential and non-residential drinking water and wastewater rates and rate structures in North Carolina are analyzed for across
- [Video: Full Cost Pricing of Water](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/video-full-cost-pricing-of-water/) - Are you determining the correct full cost pricing of water in your system? Ideally, water rates reflect the full cost of providing water service today and into the future. That includes covering the full suite of operating and maintenance costs such as salaries, taxes, insurance, utilities, chemicals, lab fees, contracted services, repairs, and depreciation. The
- [New Hampshire Water and Wastewater Rates Report - 2018](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/new-hampshire-water-and-wastewater-rates-report-2018/) - To view all New Hampshire rates resources from the EFC at UNC Chapel Hill, click the link here. This annual report details the results of a statewide survey of NH water and wastewater rates and rate structures conducted by the state of New Hampshire and the Environmental Finance Center in 2018. Residential and non-residential drinking
- [Water And Wastewater Residential Rates Affordability Assessment Tool (Tableau)](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/water-and-wastewater-residential-rates-affordability-assessment-tool-tableau/) - Affordability of residential rates is a comparative concept, the place where income and expenditures cross. A common metric used to assess affordability is the proportion of the Median Household Income of the community that would be spent on a year’s worth of “average bills” (termed Percent MHI). This is one metric, but not the only metric by
- [Bill Payment Assistance Program Cost Estimation for Water Utilities](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/water-utility-customer-assistance-program-cost-estimation-tool/) - Get an accurate bill payment assistance program cost estimation for your water system. This spreadsheet model guides water/wastewater utility staff in estimating the costs of implementing a program to assist low-income residential customers pay their bills. Follow the step-by-step instructions to estimate the income distribution of households in the utility service areas and choose from
- [AWWA Free Water Audit Software Grading Matrix For Version 5](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/free-water-audit-software-grading-matrix/) - The tables in the Free Water Audit Software Grading Matrix reproduce the data grading criteria for each input in the AWWA Water Audit Software Reporting Worksheet. To select the correct data grading for each input, determine the highest grade where the utility meets or exceeds all criteria for that grade and all grades below it.
- [Webinar: Water Audits and Water Loss Control: Entering Your Data into the Spreadsheet](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/webinar-water-audits-water-loss-control-entering-data-spreadsheet/) - The water audit process starts by gathering your data. That process is described in the webinar on March 1, 2017. Once the data is collected, you are ready to enter it into the free Water Audit Spreadsheet from AWWA. This webinar discusses the water audit process and how and where to enter the data as well
- [Webinar: Water Loss Audits- You’ve Collected Your Data, How Do You Know if it’s Any Good?](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/webinar-water-loss-audits-youve-collected-data-know-good/) - You understand the importance of completing a water loss audit and you’ve collected the necessary information to fill out AWWA’s spreadsheet. Now you need to validate that data with scores. How do you determine if your data is good, bad or in between? This webinar will help you understand the validation process used by AWWA
- [Designing Rate Structures that Support Your Objectives](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/designing-rate-structures-that-support-your-objectives-guidelines-for-nc-water-systems/) - These guidelines on designing rate structures provide step by step instructions and necessary information to assess every component of a rate structure design. This allows utility managers to optimize their rate structures in a way to support the utility's policy goals. Each element of rate structure designs is analyzed in the context of various competing
- [Sources of Technical and Financial Assistance for Small Drinking Water Systems](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/sources-of-technical-and-financial-assistance-for-small-drinking-water-systems/) - If you are looking for technical and financial assistance for small drinking water systems this document provides resources that can be used to address challenges unique to your small public water system (PWS).
- [Climate Ready Water Utilities Toolbox](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/climate-ready-water-utilities-toolbox/) - The searchable climate ready water utilities toolbox contains resources that support all stages of the decision process, from basic climate science through integration of mitigation and adaptation into long-term planning. Resources include reports, articles and other publications, grant programs, current activities, models and tools and upcoming seminars, workshops and training sessions.
- [Subsidized Loan Calculator](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/subsidized-funding-benefits-calculator/) - This online dashboard allows a utility to compare a low-interest loan through an SRF or USDA program to a commercial loan at the market rate . The subsidized loan calculator offers 3 different ways to look at savings; the interest savings in nominal dollars, the total cost of each option in nominal dollars, and the
- [Alternative Financing of Water and Wastewater Infrastructure in Rural Communities](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/alternative-financing-of-water-and-wastewater-infrastructure-in-rural-communities/) - As the needs of rural communities are not unique to New York, the group conducted research on the financing methods utilized by other communities in the United States and abroad. As part of this research, the group has analyzed whether such practices can be adopted by USDA. The analysis concludes with alternative financing recommendations for
- [Funding Collaboration: Maximizing the Impact of Project Funding to Increase Compliance and Enhance Public Health](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/1033/) - This funding collaboration guide highlights innovative approaches to funding drinking water infrastructure projects through coordination and careful targeting of funding sources to derive the most benefit for each dollar spent.
- [Affordability and Principal Forgiveness in the State Revolving Fund Programs of the Environmental Protection Agency Region 4 States](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/affordability-and-principal-forgiveness-in-the-state-revolving-fund-programs-of-the-environmental-protection-agency-region-4-states/) - The State Revolving Fund programs were created to help water and wastewater systems finance projects to protect public health and abide to other federal regulations. Each state, to an extent, designs their own criteria and process to distribute funds to applicants in their state. Prior to 2009, under the Safe Drinking Water Act, states had
- [Resources to Assist Water Utilities with Resilience and Disaster Recovery](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/resources-to-assist-water-utilities-with-resilience-and-disaster-recovery/) - The Environmental Finance Center at the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill (EFC at UNC) has created several free resources that are relevant to water utilities in addressing the challenges and questions related to resilience and disaster recovery. These resources cover a broad range of finance and management topics, including funding, disaster management, partnerships, green
- [Compendium of Drinking Water and Wastewater Customer Assistance Programs](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/compendium-drinking-water-wastewater-customer-assistance-programs/) - This compendium of Drinking Water and Wastewater Customer Assistance Programs describes the benefits, implementation, and examples of customer assistance programs (CAPs) throughout the country.
- [25 Questions for Assessing Your Water System's Financial Capacity](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/25-questions-for-assessing-your-water-systems-financial-health/) - This interactive, self-assessment tool is designed to help evaluate your water system’s financial capacity. Based on your responses to 25 questions, the tool provides feedback and an overall scoring assessment. It also provides additional information on each question, as well as links to on-line training resources. Whether you score well or poorly, the focus is
- [Assessing Affordability of Regulations](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/assessing-affordability-of-regulations/) - As federal requirements to meet specific environmental standards drive up water bills in many US households, a joint issue brief from the US Conference of Mayors, the American Water Works Association and the Water Environment Federation proposes that the US Environmental Protection Agency reassess its definition of affordability. According to the three organizations, EPA’s affordability
- [Assessing Water System Managerial Capacity](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/assessing-water-system-managerial-capacity/) - This document was developed by the Managerial Capacity Workgroup (January 2011-December 2011) for state Capacity Development Coordinators seeking ideas for assessing water system managerial capacity as part of water system capacity.
- [Asset Inventory Database](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/asset-inventory-database/) - This Microsoft Access asset inventory database guides you in telling a complete inventory of your water system's assets. After entering in data for your assets, this tool generates reports and helps you think through energy-serving projects. View Database For instructions, click here.
- [Example Asset Inventory Spreadsheet](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/asset-inventory-spreadsheet-example/) - The spreadsheet provides an example asset inventory particularly geared for smaller sized utilities. The user may add additional columns to the spreadsheet to gather other data they may feel is important for them or the user may wish to eliminate some of these fields. The spreadsheet is meant as a starting point. Utilities may want
- [Asset Management Blog Post](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/asset-management-blog-post/) - As a water or wastewater system manager or operator, you are managing assets every day. You have to make decisions on what maintenance to perform on pumps, wells, tanks, treatment facilities, or any other assets. You have to decide what to do when an asset fails – repair it, replace it, or rehabilitate it. You
- [Asset Management for Local Officials](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/asset-management-for-local-officials/) - This guide will help you understand the basics of asset management for local officials and local officials’ vital role in successfully implementing an asset management program. It is intended for local officials who are directly or indirectly involved in decisions affecting public water systems.
- [Asset Management IQ](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/asset-management-iq-2/) - An Asset Management IQ Test is presented here in order to help you review the concepts of the various core components of Asset Management. Both the test and a scoring table are also available as a printable pdf, which may be copied for use by multiple personnel within your utility.
- [Asset Management Manual](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/asset-management-manual/) - The asset management manual provides an overview of how to determine critical assets, conduct life cycle costing, and create a long-term funding strategy. Username: amkanwork, Password: krownakma
- [Asset Management Question & Answer Session](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/asset-management-question-answer-session/) - This guide will provide answers to questions related to Asset Management: The Current State of the Assets.
- [Asset Management Switchboard](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/asset-management-switchboard/) - The Southwest Environmental Finance Center has partnered with EPA to create a repository of documentation and tools related to Asset Management. Whether you are new to the Asset Management process or just need a refresher on a specific topic, the resource you are looking for is probably here. If you’re unable to find what you’re looking for,
- [Asset Management: A Best Practices Guide](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/asset-management-a-best-practices-guide/) - The Asset Management: A Best Practices Guide is intended for owners, managers and operators of public water systems; local officials; technical assistance providers; and state personnel.This guide will help you understand what asset management means, the benefits of asset management, best practices in asset management and how to implement an asset management plan.
- [Asset Management Handbook for Small Water Systems](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/asset-management-a-handbook-for-small-water-systems/) - With the Asset Management Handbook for Small Water Systems learn how to take inventory of system assets and develop a long-term maintenance plan to save money and avoid unexpected problems.
- [AWWA's Water Audit Software](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/awwas-water-audit-software/) - 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. Log in to access the Water Audit Software.
- [Beyond the Operating Ratio: Using Financial Statement Analysis to Assess Fixed Capital Investments](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/beyond-the-operating-ratio-using-financial-statement-analysis-to-assess-fixed-capital-investments-pdf/) - Current practice among investors, policy makers, and industry groups for identifying the condition of physical capital in water and wastewater utilities includes the use of several key financial ratios, such as Operating Ratio, Age of Plant, Fixed Asset Turnover and Infrastructure Condition. However, these ratios are frequently misinterpreted by users of the data who are
- [Building an Asset Management Team](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/building-an-asset-management-team/) - This guide is intended for local officials, owners and operators of public water systems, technical assistance providers, and state personnel building an asset management team. It will help you understand how forming and having a team can help your system successfully implement asset management and the components of a successful asset management team.
- [Control and Mitigation of Drinking Water Losses in Distribution Systems](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/control-and-mitigation-of-drinking-water-losses-in-distribution-systems/) - This document contains information on drinking water losses in distribution systems and control programs for public water systems. Find information on water loss terms and concepts, metering, and water loss control program elements, and more in this guide.
- [Development Impact Fees as Planning Tools and Revenue Generators](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/development-impact-fees-as-planning-tools-and-revenue-generators/) - Development Impact Fees are a commonly proposed method of raising revenue to help pay for the added costs of new infrastructure and services required as a result of new growth in a community. This practice guide discusses the overarching issues associated with the use of impact fees. Specifically, development impact fees are discussed in their
- [Distribution Systems: A Best Practices Guide](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/distribution-systems-a-best-practices-guide/) - This document provides information on the benefits of routine distribution system maintenance and monitoring.
- [Do You Want Utilities With That? Avoiding the Unintended Economic Consequences of Poorly Planned Growth on the Provision of Water and Sewer Service](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/do-you-want-utilities-with-that-avoiding-the-unintended-consequences-of-poorly-planned-growth-on-the-provision-of-water-and-sewer-service/) - This Practice Guide was written for water utility managers and regulators, municipal officials, and planning commissioners—and the consumers and voters whom they serve. This Practice Guide aims to improve awareness, facilitate communication and promote better resolution of the challenges they face together as they try to manage a growing small water system.
- [Electricity Baseline Builder for Water Utilities](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/electricity-baseline-builder-water-utilities/) - The Electricity Baseline Builder tool allows you to see how much electricity your water system is currently using and track how much you save, or have already saved, with new energy efficiency projects. Input your monthly electricity bills and the tool will calculate various metrics, including monthly electricity use, average daily electricity use, electricity intensity,
- [Empowering Your Water System with Financial Capacity](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/5702/) - Learn to empower your water system with the financial capacity handout series. This series includes financial capacity improvements, budgeting basics, explanation of the budgeting process, and a sample budget.
- [Ensuring a Sustainable Future: An Energy Management Guidebook for Wastewater and Water Utilities](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/ensuring-a-sustainable-future-an-energy-management-guidebook-for-wastewater-and-water-utilities/) - This energy management guidebook was specifically written to provide water and wastewater utility managers with a step-by-step method, based on a Plan-Do-Check-Act management system approach, to identify, implement, measure, and improve energy efficiency and renewable opportunities at their utilities. View Guide
- [EPA Energy Use Assessment Tool for Drinking Water Systems](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/energy-use-assessment-tool-for-drinking-water-systems/) - This Excel-based EPA Energy Use Assessment tool can be used by small- to medium-sized systems to conduct a utility bill and equipment analysis to assess individual baseline energy use and costs. The Energy Use Assessment Tool User's Guide and Energy Use Assessments at Water and Wastewater Systems Guide can also be accessed.
- [Federal and NC Resiliency Funding Sources](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/federal-and-nc-resiliency-funding-sources/) - The EFC has compiled a MS Office Excel spreadsheet table of federal and NC resiliency funding sources.
- [Financial Health Checkup for Water Utilities](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/financial-health-checkup-for-water-utilities/) - Use this Financial Health Checkup for Water Utilities tool to assess the financial performance of your water (and/or wastewater) utility fund. Financial data readily available in annual financial statements are copied into this tool, which computes key financial indicators that measure a variety of important metrics, such as the ability to pay debt service, availability
- [Financial Resilience Dashboard: A Glimpse Into The Effects Of COVID-19 For Water And Wastewater Utilities](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/financial-resilience-covid-19-effects-dashboard/) - This online, interactive financial resilience dashboard is designed to allow utilities to input their financial information and anticipated revenue losses to assess how long they can supplement revenue losses with unrestricted cash. It does not provide a perfect assessment of the utility's financial condition and should only be used as a guide. Unrestricted cash often
- [Five Core Components of Asset Management](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/five-core-components-of-asset-management/) - The Five Core Components of Asset Management is a visual overview showing the questions you should ask about your assets for each of the five core components when using Asset Management. This is a one page document that quickly shows what the five core components are and what information you will define in each step.
- [Gaining Operational and Managerial Efficiencies Through Water System Partnerships](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/gaining-operational-and-managerial-efficiencies-through-water-system-partnerships/) - The case studies profiled on the following pages provide examples of the many ways systems can form partnerships, and the operational and managerial efficiencies and other important benefits that system partnerships can provide.
- [Water Pricing and Encouraging Conservation Goals During the California Drought](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/how-important-was-water-pricing-in-achieving-conservation-goals-during-the-california-drought/) - Explore the relationship between water pricing and encouraging conservation goals to help develop long-term resilience in a drought. Water pricing and residential water use data for hundreds of water agencies in California during the State-mandated conservation period (June 2015 - May 2016) were studied to find out if the water rates or rate structures that
- [Improving Security through Capacity Development: Capacity Self-Assessments](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/improving-security-through-capacity-development-capacity-self-assessments/) - Improve security through capacity development with Capacity Self-Assessments. A guide to the relationship between security and capacity development and to using existing tools to help address small system security needs.
- [Introduction to Asset Management](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/introduction-to-asset-management/) - View Document This five page document introduces you to the concepts of Asset Management. It is a useful tool to share with those that may not be familiar with the terminology or the concept. It includes an introduction, defines the 5 core components of asset management, provides an example of how asset management can be
- [Level of Service Goal Measurement Table](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/level-service-goal-measurement-table/) - The Level of Service Handout and Level of Service Goal Measurement Table are both included in the resource list.
- [Meter Error Flow Weighted Average Tool](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/meter-error-flow-weighted-average-tool/) - When using the AWWA Water Audit software for flow weighted average you will find one input location for master meter and supply error adjustments for each of the following: volume from own sources, water imported and water exported. If you have more than one master meter for any of these three, you will need to
- [Modelo de Análisis para las Tarifas de Agua y Aguas Residuale](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/rates-analysis-tool-spanish-version/) - Modelo de Análisis para las Tarifas de Agua y Aguas Residuale. Una herramienta gratis, para la fijación de tarifas, utilizando sólo MS Excel, desarrollado por el Centro de Finanzas Ambiental en la UNC.
- [NE and MO Water Infrastructure Community Affordability Assessment Projects](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/affordability-of-wastewater-connection-costs-in-the-florida-keys/) - The WSU EFC developed Community Affordability Assessment Tools for all 445 rural communities in Nebraska and 745 rural communities in Missouri for the Nebraska DEQ and Missouri DNR. The projects involved an extensive national literature review to determine which factors effect rural population change. Those factors are then analyzed to determine which are applicable to
- [NYSERDA Water and Wastewater Energy Management Practices Handbook](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/nyserda-water-wastewater-energy-management-practices-handbook/) - The water and wastewater energy management best practices are sequentially numbered for easier use. Each Best Practice is self standing, so you can start at the beginning and work your way through until you have covered the whole facility, or search only for practices applicable to your facility.
- [NYSERDA Small Water Treatment Checklist](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/an-introduction-to-asset-management-and-asset-management-resources/) - The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority or NYSERDA Small Water Treatment Plant Checklist has been designed to assist smaller facilities with identifying opportunities for energy efficient improvements.
- [Online Water Rate Checkup Tool](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/online-water-rate-checkup-tool/) - The water rate checkup tool is designed to help public water systems of all sizes. Rate Checkup is an online analysis tool designed to help water systems of all sizes calculate water rate schedules. This tool provides user friendly screens to input data, analyze and validate data, forecast water rates based on customer groups, and generate custom reports
- [Plan to Pay: Scenarios to Fund your Capital Improvement Plan](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/user-friendly-capital-improvement-plan-cip-tool-for-water-wastewater-utilities/) - Start the planning process by using this tool for a strategic approach to building your capital improvement plan. Enter in all capital projects and this spreadsheet model will project your fund balance (revenues, expenses and reserves), and necessary rate increases for the next 20 years, and more! Data entry requirements are minimal. Intended for small
- [Planning and Sustainability - A Handbook for Water and Wastewater Utilities](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/planning-and-sustainability-a-handbook-for-water-and-wastewater-utilities/) - This handbook for water and wastewater utilities is designed to help address the everyday challenges of small water systems. Protecting our communities and our precious water resources by sustaining our Nation’s water infrastructure is a critical and ongoing challenge.
- [Portfolio Manager](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/portfolio-manager/) - The U.S. EPA’s portfolio manager is an online energy management and tracking tool is for eligible commercial and institutional buildings, such as K-12 schools, office buildings, and many others. Portfolio Manager allows you to track improvements over time, compare similar buildings within a portfolio, generate reports, and quantify greenhouse gas emissions. Some additional features may
- [Preventive Maintenance Card File for Small Public Water Systems Using Ground Water](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/preventive-maintenance-card-file-for-small-public-water-systems-using-ground-water/) - This preventive maintenance booklet is divided into sections that outline daily, weekly, and monthly tasks, plus individual sections that describe specific tasks for each month of the year.
- [Rate and Financial Benchmarking Dashboards](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/rates-and-financial-benchmarking-dashboards/) - View Dashboards These free, interactive online rate and financial benchmarking dashboards are designed to assist utility managers and local officials to compare and analyze water and wastewater rates against multiple characteristics, including utility finances, system characteristics, customer base socioeconomic conditions, geography, and history. The dashboards are used by utility managers and finance officers to benchmark
- [Water Utility Record Keeping Rules: A Quick Reference Guide](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/record-keeping-rules-a-quick-reference-guide/) - A rule-by-rule summary of requirements for water utility record keeping, monitoring, public notice, and other records, as well as helpful tips on record maintenance and security.
- [Inventory Reference Guide Asset Management and Risk Analysis](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/reference-guide-asset-management-risk-analysis/) - The Inventory Reference Guide lists assets by category (hydrants, meters, pipes, pumps, etc.). In tabular form it provides a list of the information you should collect about the asset when completing your asset inventory. The tables suggest what should be collected in the field vs. in the office and also what type of electrical information
- [Results of the 2017-2018 North Carolina Water and Wastewater Utility Management Survey](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/results-of-the-2017-2018-north-carolina-water-and-wastewater-utility-management-survey/) - Between November 2017 and March 2018, the North Carolina League of Municipalities (NCLM) and the Environmental Finance Center (EFC) at the University of North Carolina’s School of Government conducted a statewide survey of the drinking water and wastewater utility management and long-term planning practices and policies of North Carolina. The purpose of this survey was
- [Retention: Recognize, Reward and Retain Operators](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/retention-recognize-reward-and-retain-operators/) - This article reviews the findings and discusses how the cycle of high turnover can be broken to better retain operators. Much has been written about high turnover among water operators. The EFC decided to go directly to the source, asking more than 300 water operators at small systems in North Carolina about what would make
- [Rural and Small Systems Guidebook to Sustainable Utility Management](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/rural-and-small-systems-guidebook-to-sustainable-utility-management/) - This guidebook introduces small water system managers to 10 key areas on sustainable utility management. It provides information on: understanding the ten key management areas; conducting a system assessment process; prioritizing areas for improvement; and developing measures of progress that help small systems improve performance.
- [Workshop in a Box: Sustainable Management of Rural and Small Systems Workshops](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/workshop-in-a-box-sustainable-management-of-rural-adn-small-systems-workshops/) - The "Workshop in a Box" tool contains a series of materials and instructions to help small system managers to create workshop/education events in order to help improve the staff's abilities.
- [Water System Operator Roles and Responsibilities: A Best Practices Guide](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/water-system-operator-roles-and-responsibilities-a-best-practices-guide/) - Water system operator roles and responsibilities can vary system to system. This guide will help you better understand your roles and responsibilities in delivering safe drinking water to customers. Additional responsibilities, which can vary depending on your system size, characteristics (e.g., complexity of treatment), managerial structure, and regulatory requirements, are also covered.
- [Water System Owner Roles and Responsibilities: A Best Practices Guide](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/water-system-owner-roles-and-responsibilities-a-best-practices-guide/) - This is a summary of system owners’ key duties in protecting public health, overseeing system operation, and working with local officials. Learn more about water system owner roles and responsibilities in this helpful best practices guide.
- [Water Research Foundation Leakage Component Analysis Model](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/water-research-foundation-leakage-component-analysis-model/) - The Leakage Component Analysis (LCA) Model was developed to provide the water industry with a computer-based model for leakage component analysis, failure frequency analysis, economic leakage control intervention strategy evaluation, and display of key water loss performance indicators. The LCA Model is a complementary analysis tool to the AWWA Free Water Audit Software and was
- [Water Pricing and Rates Dashboards](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/water-pricing-and-rates-dashboard/) - This Water Pricing and Rates Practice Guide is intended to be used as a resource for local government and water utility officials who are exploring ‘best practices’ for managing a water utility, especially as it relates to setting and regulating water rates.
- [Water Audit Handbook for Small Drinking Water Systems](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/water-audit-handbook-for-small-drinking-water-systems/) - The first step in establishing an effective water loss control program is performing a water audit. The Water Audit Handbook was developed primarily for use by small drinking water systems that serve 10,000 people or less. It simplifies the process of using the AWWA/IWA Water Audit by grouping information and data entry into separate sections.
- [Water and Wastewater Rates Analysis Model](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/water-sewer-rates-analysis-version-2-0/) - Does your system charge your customers the correct amount for water? This free, basic cash-flow water and wastewater rates analysis model tool allows water systems to input their current rate structure, estimates on number of customers and water use, and the expected costs for the system. Easy-to-use, simplified cash flow spreadsheet model Input current rates,
- [Water and Wastewater Finance Debt Analysis](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/water-and-wastewater-finance-debt-analysis/) - View Presentation
- [The State of the State: A Guide to Billing and Debt Collection Practices within Georgia's Water and Wastewater Utility Service Industry](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/the-state-of-the-state-a-guide-to-billing-and-debt-collection-practices-within-georgias-water-and-wastewater-utility-service-industry-pdf/) - This is a guide written specifically for Georgia water and wastewater utility managers. The guide provides an outline for billing and debt collection practices within Georgia's water and wastewater utility service industry. It explains the legal framework upon which water/wastewater utility services are established, operated and provided in the State of Georgia. It covers legal
- [Tech Brief: Reading Centrifugal Pump Curves](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/tech-brief-reading-centrifugal-pump-curves/) - Reading and understanding centrifugal pump curves is key to proper pump selection, and to their reliable and efficient operation. This Tech Brief examines how pump curves can provide data about a pump's ability to produce flow against certain head, shows how to read a typical centrifugal pump curve, and provides information about pump efficiency and
- [Talking To Your Decision Makers: A Best Practices Guide](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/talking-to-your-decision-makers-a-best-practices-guide/) - This document provides tips for working successfully with decision makers in your community to meet your water system’s needs.
- [Taking Stock of Your Water System: A Simple Asset Management for Very Small Drinking Water Systems](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/taking-stock-of-your-water-system-a-simple-asset-inventory-for-very-small-drinking-water-systems/) - This guide provides additional information on asset inventory management and easy-to-use worksheets for both planning and inventory.
- [System Partnership Solutions to Improve Public Health Protection (Volume I)](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/system-partnership-solutions-to-improve-public-health-protection-volume-i/) - This document presents case studies of utilities facing capacity challenges utilizing system partnership solutions to improve public health challenges resulting in cost effective, long-term resolutions.
- [System Partnership Solutions to Improve Public Health Protection (Volume II)](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/system-partnership-solutions-to-improve-public-health-protection-volume-ii/) - This document features case studies that improved water system capacity through system partnership solutions. By successfully overcoming the challenges faced by their small water systems they are able to implement cost-effective, long-term solutions to public health and capacity challenges.
- [SWIC-Recommended Guidance for North Carolina Utilities Attempting to Support Water Conservation in the Long-Term through Rate Structure Design and Billing Practices](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/swic-recommended-guidance-for-north-carolina-utilities-attempting-to-support-water-conservation-in-the-long-term-through-rate-structure-design-and-billing-practices/) - The North Carolina State Water Infrastructure Commission (SWIC) adopted this guidance document, prepared in part by the EFC, which lists rate structure design and billing practices options that utilities can choose to implement in order to support water conservation in the long-term. These are not mandatory, but provide options to water utilities facing water shortages.
- [Strategic Planning: A Handbook for Small Water Systems](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/strategic-planning-a-handbook-for-small-water-systems/) - The strategic planning handbook for small water systems provides an overview of the planning process and how it will help you build capacity and respond to unexpected problems; there are also easy to use worksheets to help in developing your strategic plan.
- [Setting Small Drinking Water System Rates for a Sustainable Future](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/setting-small-drinking-water-system-rates-for-a-sustainable-future/) - Are you setting your water system rates for a sustainable future? This guide contains information on the importance of recovering costs through user fees and developing a budget and financial plan.
- [Rural Water and Wastewater Infrastructure Management](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tools-publications/rural-water-and-wastewater-infrastructure-management/) - This report presents an evaluation of the current state of asset management, followed by asset management software evaluations and policy recommendations. All three areas are examined through the lens of developing an incremental approach to rural water and wastewater infrastructure management for communities in New York with populations of less than 10,000 people.

## For Educators

- [Broad Street Mystery Game - The Importance of Public Water Services](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/broad-street-mystery-game-the-importance-of-public-water-services/) - The Broad Street Mystery was a true mystery that occurred in London, England, in 1854. This interactive game allows you to find clues and solve the mystery, thereby learning about the impact of public water treatment services on human health. Lesson adapted from "Poison Pump" in the Project Wet Curriculum Guide." Download Game
- [Future Water Leader Interviews with Utility Managers and Interns](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/future-water-leader-interviews-with-utility-managers-and-interns/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ theme_builder_area=”post_content” _builder_version=”4.17.4″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.17.4″ _module_preset=”default” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_column _builder_version=”4.17.4″ _module_preset=”default” type=”4_4″ theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_blurb title=”Advantages of Hiring Interns at Your Water/Wastewater Utility” image=”https://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/FWL-Video-Cover.png” _builder_version=”4.17.4″ _module_preset=”default” theme_builder_area=”post_content” hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″ alt=”Future Water Leaders – Making a Splash in the Water Workforce” title_text=”FWL Video – Cover”] Explore these inspiring videos to discover the Future Water Leaders program and
- [A School Counselor's Guide to Great Water Careers](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/a-school-counselors-guide-to-great-water-careers/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”section” _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row admin_label=”row” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” _builder_version=”4.17.4″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”] The resources in this guide will help you identify students who might have interest in a career in the water industry, provide students with resources about water careers, and build curriculum, lessons, or
- [To Flush or Not to Flush?? Flushable Wipes Lesson](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/40838/) - Toilet paper is designed to break down when it gets wet. “Flushable” wipes are small enough to fit in the toilet and resemble toilet paper, but what happens when they get wet? This is a science experiment to test if “flushable wipes really dissolve. Download Lesson Plan
- [Examples of State and Local Wetland Volunteer Monitoring Programs](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/examples-of-state-and-local-wetland-volunteer-monitoring-programs/) - Engage students in citizen science through a volunteer wetland monitoring program. EPA provides this list of programs in 17 states and regions. LINKS Examples of State and Local Wetland Volunteer Monitoring Programs
- [Water Lesson Plans, Teacher Guides and Online Environmental Resources for Educators](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/water-lesson-plans-teacher-guides-and-online-environmental-resources-for-educators/) - An array of environmental and science based lesson plans, activities and ideas below from EPA, other federal agencies and external organizations. LINKS Water Lesson Plans, Teacher Guides and Online Environmental Resources for Educators
- [EPA Healthy Watersheds Projects in Your State and Region](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/epa-healthy-watersheds-projects-in-your-state-and-region/) - List of resources for every region to get involved with current watershed assessment and protection projects and programs. LINKS EPA Healthy Watersheds Projects in Your State and Region
- [Water Treatment and Distribution Operator Chemistry Reference Sheet](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/water-treatment-and-distribution-operator-chemistry-reference-sheet/) - Short chemistry reference sheet for water/wastewater operators, including formulas and densities of commonly encountered substances. LINKS Water Treatment and Distribution Operator Chemistry Reference Sheet
- [Careers in Water](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/careers-in-water/) - This portal provides resources and information regarding jobs in water, including descriptions of jobs, and state-specific resource lists to get more information about local organizations and job listings. LINKS Careers in Water
- [Beetles Project](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/beetles-project/) - Professional learning resources are designed for program leaders to use with field instructors. They provide experiences and rationale about outdoor science instruction designed to inspire instructors to improve their teaching. Our student activities inspire students’ wonder and curiosity about the natural world, support their innate tendencies for exploration and guide them to make explanations based
- [Virtual Tours of Treatment Systems](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/virtual-tours-of-treatment-systems/) - Digital resources and virtual tours of the water and wastewater systems of Albuquerque/Bernalillo County Water Authority. LINKS Virtual Tours of Treatment Systems
- [How To: Calculate Water Usage in Gilbert, Arizona](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/how-to-calculate-water-usage-in-gilbert-arizona-2/) - In this Gilbert Digital How To video, you will learn how to use the free online water calculator to make sure you are using the right amount of water for your household. LINKS How To: Calculate Water Usage in Gilbert, Arizona
- [Local Government in Kansas: An Overview of Cities and Counties](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/local-government-in-kansas-an-overview-of-cities-and-counties/) - Local Government in Kansas: An overview of Cities and Counties. Offers the reader an understanding of how government works in the state of Kansas. LINKS Local Government in Kansas: An Overview of Cities and Counties
- [Keeping Our Water Clean!](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/keeping-our-water-clean/) - Where does the water on the road go after a rain day? And taking care of them can be very important! LINKS Keeping Our Water Clean!
- [How Does Water Get to Your House?](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/how-does-water-get-to-your-house/) - Have you ever turned on a faucet in your sink or shower and wondered where that water comes from? Jessi and Squeaks explore how we get water to our homes! LINKS How Does Water Get to Your House?
- [How Can I Save Water](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/how-can-i-save-water/) - Squeaks and Mister Brown have a leaky faucet! Luckily this is a great chance to learn about how they can save water. LINKS How Can I Save Water
- [Water Saving Tips and Tricks - Let's Save the Planet - The Environment for Kids](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/water-saving-tips-and-tricks-lets-save-the-planet-the-environment-for-kids/) - Educational video for children to learn how to save water. Water is an indispensable resource for life on planet Earth, that's why we should learn how not to waste it. Did you know that only 0.025% of freshwater on the planet is drinkable? In this video, children will learn how to save water with little
- [How Does Water Get to Your Tap? - New Jersey American Water](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/how-does-water-get-to-your-tap-new-jersey-american-water/) - SPLASH is back! Check out our new "Splash" video to see how water flows from the treatment plants to your home. LINKS How Does Water Get to Your Tap?
- [How Your Home Plumbing Works (From Start to Finish)](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/how-your-home-plumbing-works-from-start-to-finish/) - Ever wonder where your water comes from, or where it even goes once you used it? Watch to learn! LINKS How Your Home Plumbing Works
- [How Chicago Cleans 1.4 Billion Gallons Of Wastewater Every Day](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/how-chicago-cleans-1-4-billion-gallons-of-wastewater-every-day/) - The Stickney Water Reclamation Plant in Illinois is one of the largest wastewater-treatment facilities in the world, serving about 2.3 million people and cleaning an average of 700 million gallons of wastewater a day. During rainfall, the facility can handle a whopping 1.44 billion gallons of wastewater in a single day — that's a million
- [How City Water Purification Works: Drinking and Wastewater](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/the-groundwater-foundation-protecting-groundwater-in-your-community/) - Cities purify millions of gallons of drinking and wastewater daily. This incredible process happens behind the scenes, day and night. Let's take a closer look at the processes that make it all possible! LINKS How City Water Purification Works: Drinking and Wastewater
- [Macroinvertebrates](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/macroinvertebrates/) - Under the water of many lakes and streams is the amazing world of the macroinvertebrate (MAC-row-in-VERT-ih-brate). Macroinvertebrates are often called macros. They are invertebrates (animals without a backbone) that you can see without using a microscope or magnifying glass. Slimy snails are macros, and so are crawly crayfish. LINKS Macroinvertebrates
- [Florida’s aquifers: The treasure below](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/floridas-aquifers-the-treasure-below-2/) - The main source of water for 90% of northeast and central Florida comes from underground aquifers. Aquifers can be thought of as vast underground, porous rocks that hold water and allow water to move through the holes within the rock. Aquifers can be composed of different types of earthen materials, such as sand, shell and
- [Water pollution: The dirty details](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/water-pollution-the-dirty-details/) - Protecting and restoring water quality is a core mission of the St. Johns River Water Management District. A key component of this work is water quality monitoring and reporting. Monitoring provides a wealth of information that enables the District to make resource decisions based on accurate and timely information. LINKS Water Pollution: The Dirty Details
- [What's Your Water-Saving Super Hero Name?](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/whats-your-water-saving-super-hero-name/) - ARE YOU MONSOON MAVERICK OR SPRINKLE GUARDIAN? Use your birth month and the first letter of your name to discover your water-saving alter ego! Once you uncover your water-saving superhero name, connect the dots to see what your super water-saver looks like and make sure to color it in for a personalized touch. LINKS What's
- [Where's Wayne? - Activity book](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/wheres-wayne-activity-book/) - Elementary level activity book with focus on saving water LINKS Where's Wayne?
- [Adhesion and Cohesion of Water - USGS web page](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/adhesion-and-cohesion-of-water-usgs-web-page/) - Adhesion and Cohesion are water properties that affect how water interacts with itself and with other things like leaves and even you! This video briefly talks about these two amazing properties of water. LINKS Adhesion and Cohesion of Water/a>
- [Water Pollution is Never the Solution](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/water-pollution-is-never-the-solution/) - This video is about Water Pollution is Never the Solution. LINKS Water Pollution is Never the Solution
- [From Flush to Finish: KC Water's Wastewater Treatment Process](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/from-flush-to-finish-kc-waters-wastewater-treatment-process/) - Learn how KC Water transforms water from the Missouri River into high-quality, great-tasting drinking water that is delivered right to your tap. LINKS From Flush to Finish
- [From River to Tap: KC's Water Treatment Process](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/from-river-to-tap-kcs-water-treatment-process/) - Learn how KC Water transforms water from the Missouri River into high-quality, great-tasting drinking water that is delivered right to your tap. LINKS From River to Tap: KC's Water Treatment Process
- [Water Remediation Lab](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/water-remediation-lab/) - Students measure the effectiveness of water filters in purifying contaminated water. They prepare test water by creating different concentrations of bleach (chlorine-contaminated) water. LINKS Water Remediation Lab
- [Tippy Tappy Piping design activity](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/tippy-tappy-piping-design-activity/) - In this activity, student teams design, prototype and test piping systems to transport water from a storage tank to an existing Tippy Tap hand-washing station, thereby creating a more efficient hand-washing station. Through this example service-learning engineering project, students learn basic fluid dynamic principles that are needed for creating efficient piping systems. LINKS Tippy Tappy
- [Swamp Cooler design activity](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/swamp-cooler-design-activity/) - Using a household fan, cardboard box and paper towels, student teams design and build their own evaporative cooler prototype devices. They learn about the process that cools water during the evaporation of water. LINKS Swamp Cooler design activity
- [Surface Tension lab](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/surface-tension-lab/) - Students extend their understanding of surface tension by exploring the real-world engineering problem of deciding what makes a "good" soap bubble. Student teams first measure this property, and then use this measurement to determine the best soap solution for making bubbles. LINKS Surface Tension lab
- [Should I Drink That?](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/should-i-drink-that/) - Students perform one of the first steps that environmental engineers do to determine water quality—sampling and analysis. Student teams measure the electrical conductivity of four water samples (deionized water, purified water, school tap water and a salt-water solution) using teacher-made LED-conductivity testers and commercially available electrical conductivity meters LINKS Should I Drink That?
- [Selectively Permeable Membranes](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/selectively-permeable-membranes/) - Students learn that engineers develop different polymers to serve various functions and are introduced to selectively permeable membranes. LINKS Selectively Permeable Membranes
- [Ocean Water Desalination Lesson](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/ocean-water-desalination-lesson/) - Students learn about the techniques engineers have developed for changing ocean water into drinking water, including thermal and membrane desalination. LINKS Ocean Water Desalination Lesson
- [Intro to Water Chemistry (lesson with activity suggestions)](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/intro-to-water-chemistry-lesson-with-activity-suggestions/) - Students are presented with examples of the types of problems that environmental engineers solve, specifically focusing on water quality issues. Topics include the importance of clean water, the scarcity of fresh water, tap water contamination sources, and ways environmental engineers treat contaminated water. LINKS Intro to Water Chemistry (lesson with activity suggestions)
- [Impact of a Skilled Water Operator](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/impact-of-a-skilled-water-operator/) - short story about the important contribution to community health by a water operator. Testing and notification regarding total coliform. LINKS Impact of a Skilled Water Operator
- [Following the Flow: An Inside Look at Wastewater Treatment](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/following-the-flow-an-inside-look-at-wastewater-treatment/) - A short and informative look into wastewater treatment phases and methods. LINKS Following the Flow: An Inside Look at Wastewater Treatment
- [Wastewater Treatment Model, Water Wise](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/wastewater-treatment-model-water-wise/) - Short, easy-to-follow instructions for a hand-on activity to build a small model wastewater treatment facility. LINKS Wastewater Treatment Model, Water Wise
- [Water Use Tally Activity](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/water-use-tally-activity/) - This activity demonstrates how much water is used for everyday activities.Water LINKS Water Use Tally Activity
- [STEMtown, Public Finance Lesson Plan](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/stemtown-public-finance-lesson-plan/) - Learn how city leaders prioritize and budget for the public service areas in your community.
- [Water Education for Teachers and Students](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/water-education-for-teachers-and-students/) - Arizona Project WET is one of the most well established water education programs in the Nation. This state program thrives thanks to the guiding principles of Arizona Cooperative Extension: a statewide framework, needs-based program development, and objective-driven, evaluated programs. Access to the world renowned Project WET Foundation lessons enable us to activate locally and regionally
- [Toolkit for Teachers](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/toolkit-for-teachers/) - Explore water science, drinking water, and wastewater with your students! Vermont Rural Water, in partnership with Vermont Works for Women, have designed an educational toolkit with four modules. Each module addresses Next Generation Science Standards and includes a PowerPoint presentation, hands-on activities, and videos with reflection questions. Pick and choose what you want to incorporate into
- [Kids and Teachers](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/kids-and-teachers/) - Elementary online memory game geared toward k-2nd grade. LINKS Kids and Teachers
- [Discover Water - The Role of Water in Our Lives](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/discover-water-the-role-of-water-in-our-lives/) - Discover the role of water in our lives through online interactive lessons that include videos grades 1-5, available in English and Spanish. LINKS Discover Water
- [WaterSense for Kids - EPA](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/watersense-for-kids-epa/) - Think you know everything there is to know about water? Move the water-efficiency hero Flo through water pipes and answer water-efficiency questions while avoiding water-wasting monsters. Use the information you've learned on this Web site to test your knowledge. LINKS WaterSense for Kids
- [The Groundwater Foundation](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/the-groundwater-foundation/) - Four lesson plans focused on Groundwater topics includes lesson introductions, worksheets and exercises, activities, and videos. LINKS
- [The Groundwater Foundation - Protecting groundwater in your community](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/the-groundwater-foundation-protecting-groundwater-in-your-community-2/) - roundwater is a primary source of water for communities all over the world. These communities rely on groundwater as water for drinking and other domestic uses, agriculture, industry, and more. LINKS Protecting groundwater in your community
- [Education Resources - KC Water](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/education-resources-kc-water/) - Outreach education opportunities provided to students Pre-k-12 within the Kansas City limits. Lessons can be taught in the classroom, outdoors, or virtually. LINKS Outreach Education
- [Jobs in the water sector](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/jobs-in-the-water-sector/) - Lab Tech, Engineer, Water Operator, Wastewater Operator, Management and Community Outreach Coordinator. LINKS Jobs in the water sector
- [Does clean water matter to you?](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/does-clean-water-matter-to-you/) - Talk with your teachers & guidance counselors about jobs that make a difference: jobs in the water sector! LINKS Does clean water mater to you?
- [Do you care about...](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/do-you-care-about/) - Explore jobs in the water sector! Talk with your teachers and guidance counselors about the possibilities. LINKS Do you care about... Explore jobs in the water sector!
- [Dive Into Your Future!](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/dive-into-your-future/) - Explore Careers in the Water Sector: Great careers right out of high school. Talk with your teachers and guidance counselors about the possibilities. LINKS Explore Careers in the Water Sector
- [WSU's Work in Water Curriculum](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/wsus-work-in-water-curriculum/) - This unique and adaptable program introduces students to the vital role water and wastewater systems play in their community. It allows students to explore water careers through real-word experiences and conversations with the people that are working to ensure their homes, school, and local businesses have access to safe, clean, and reliable drinking water and
- [13 Water Careers](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/13-water-careers/) - Brief summary of several different jobs in the water industry, including a short synonpsis of responsibilites and possible salary ranges. LINKS 13 Water Careers
- [America's Water Sector Workforce Initiative: A Call to Action](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/americas-water-sector-workforce-initiative-a-call-to-action/) - In-depth look at the current challenges facing the water sector, including industry and employment appraisal and outlook. Provides a look at current goals, and long-term employment and training needs. LINKS America's Water Sector Workforce Initiative: A Call to Action
- [Asombro Water Conservation Data Jam (lessons and activities)](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/asombro-water-conservation-data-jam-lessons-and-activities/) - This unit was designed to introduce 6-12th grade students to data analysis and water conservation. We partnered with the United States Environmental Protection Agency (https://www.epa.gov/) to design an engaging, fun, and scientifically rigorous education unit aligned with Common Core State Standards, Next Generation Science Standards, and Agriculture Food and Natural Resources Standards. LINKS Asombro Water
- [Britannica](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/britannica/) - Access point for Britannica School encyclopedia database, which provides informational research access oriented at K-12 age learners. LINKS Britannica
- [Career Profiles, WaterOne](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/career-profiles-waterone/) - This playlist contains several short (1-3min) videos to offer a brief look into employment in the water industry.
- [Careers in Water AWWA Webpage](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/careers-in-water-awwa-webpage/) - Job listings for AWWA, which is one of the foremost national water organizations. LINKS Careers in Water AWWA Webpage
- [Water Treatment and Distribution Operator Chemistry Reference Sheet](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/water-treatment-and-distribution-operator-chemistry-reference-sheet-2/) - This reference sheet is a concise and practical informational brochure/formula sheet for water operators. LINKS Water Treatment and Distribution Operator Chemistry Reference Sheet
- [Creating Mini Wastewater Treatment Plants](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/creating-mini-wastewater-treatment-plants/) - Student teams design and then create small-size models of working filter systems to simulate multi-stage wastewater treatment plants. LINKS Creating Mini Wastewater Treatment Plants
- [Crystalline Cloth Membrane Activity](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/crystalline-cloth-membrane-activity/) - In this activity students become environmental engineers as they model membranes and membrane treatments to remove scaling during water filtration using cheese cloth to represent a simple membrane. LINKS Crystalline Cloth Membrane Activity
- [EPA Opportunities for Students and Recent Graduates](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/epa-opportunities-for-students-and-recent-graduates/) - Job information and resources for current students and recent graduates, with emphasis on internship and other entry-level opportunities. LINKS EPA Opportunities for Students and Recent Graduates
- [GreenScapes Videos](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/greenscapes-videos/) - Collection of videos and resources related to water protection and other ecological/environmental considerations. LINKS GreenScapes Videos
- [Hillsdale Lake Watershed Coalition (PPTs and water testing supplies)](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/hillsdale-lake-watershed-coalition-ppts-and-water-testing-supplies/) - A full watershed protection summary and plan, this one is for Hillsdale Lake. Includes a full breakdown of surface water threats and mitigation methods. LINKS Hillsdale Lake Watershed Coalition (PPTs and water testing supplies)
- [King County Water Education Resources](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/king-county-water-education-resources/) - The Wastewater Treatment Division of King County Washington provides a variety of water education resources that help you learn about their water systems. LINKS King County Water Education Resources
- [LABAids (hands-on lessons with built-in experiments, readings, and activities)](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/labaids-hands-on-lessons-with-built-in-experiments-readings-and-activities/) - Instructional and educational aids for a variety of hands-on learning opportunities, with an emphasis on STEM topics. LINKS LABAids (hands-on lessons with built-in experiments, readings, and activities)
- [Lumpy Water Math (Math for Wastewater Operators), Jerry Grant](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/lumpy-water-math-math-for-wastewater-operators-jerry-grant/) - Book available for purchase that contains easy-to-understand breakdowns of the basic math needed by water and wastewater operators. LINKS Lumpy Water Math (Math for Wastewater Operators), Jerry Grant
- [Water Treatment of Distribution Operator Math Reference Sheet](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/water-treatment-of-distribution-operator-math-reference-sheet/) - Formula and conversion sheet for water and wastewater operators. LINKS Water Treatment of Distribution Operator Math Reference Sheet
- [Pebble Go](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/pebble-go/) - Online-based resource allowing educators to choose from up to 5 subject areas covering Animals, Health, Science, Social Studies, and Biographies to help guide your students' exploration. LINKS Pebble Go
- [Project WET](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/project-wet/) - Provides "hands-on, science-based water education resources to formal and non-formal educators around the world. These resources encourage responsible environmental stewardship and promote meaningful action to address environmental challenges, climate change, social justice, and sustainability. " LINKS Project WET
- [Pipe Up!](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/pipe-up/) - Use game pieces to build a working system of pipes and flushables to safely deliver water from start to finish. LINKS Pipe Up!
- [Pump It! Water Engineering Design Activity](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/pump-it-water-engineering-design-activity/) - In this hands-on activity, student groups design, build, test and improve devices to pump water as if they were engineers helping a rural village meet their drinking water supply. Students keep track of their materials costs, and calculate power and cost efficiencies of the prototype pumps. LINKS Pump It! Water Engineering Design Activity
- [River Runner](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/river-runner/) - Interactive aerial-based program that allows users to choose a drop point and then follow water as it travels the natural watercourses. LINKS River Runner
- [Save a life, Clean some water activity](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/save-a-life-clean-some-water-activity/) - Student teams practice water quality analysis through turbidity measurement and coliform bacteria counts. They use information about water treatment processes to design prototype small-scale water treatment systems and test the influent (incoming) and effluent (outgoing) water to assess how well their prototypes produce safe water to prevent water-borne illnesses. LINKS Save a life, Clean some
- [Scholarship List, AWWA](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/scholarship-list-awwa/) - Resources and information for scholarships and educational support that is available through the AWWA. LINKS Scholarship List, AWWA
- [Science Take Out](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/science-take-out/) - Kit-based educational resources, which offers ready-to-use experiments and learning modules for educators. LINKS Science Take Out
- [Starting Out in Volunteer Water Monitoring](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/starting-out-in-volunteer-water-monitoring/) - EPA brochure explaining the basics of volunteer water monitoring. Get students engaged with their local water bodies while assisting researchers and local leaders working to protect these areas. LINKS Starting Out in Volunteer Water Monitoring
- [The Big Chill water chemistry activity](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/the-big-chill-water-chemistry-activity/) - In the presence of water, citric acid and sodium bicarbonate (aka baking soda) react to form sodium citrate, water, and carbon dioxide. Students investigate this endothermic reaction. LINKS The Big Chill water chemistry activity
- [The Water Project](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/the-water-project/) - Information and resources related to donation programs for water-related support. LINKS The Water Project
- [National Science Teaching Association Case Studies](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/national-science-teaching-association-case-studies/) - Access point for National Science Teaching Association case studies. LINKS National Science Teaching Association Case Studies
- [UN Sustainable Development Group](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/un-sustainable-development-group/) - Information and informational resources to learn more about the UN's Sustainable Development Group and their work around the world. LINKS UN Sustainable Development Group
- [Water Cycle Diagrams](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/water-cycle-diagrams/) - Visual representation of the water cycle, and additional links and resouces to learn about both human impacted and natual water cycles. Includes resources for multiple languages and materials for kids. LINKS Water Cycle Diagrams
- [Water Operator Certification Explained](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/water-operator-certification-explained/) - A breakdown of what an operator is, does, and the career path to expect and how to become certified. LINKS Water Operator Certification Explained
- [Water Sourcebooks, EPA](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/water-sourcebooks-epa/) - From the EPA, a full, in-depth look at water. The Water Source Book includes a series of activities related to learning about water oriented at learners 6-8 grade. LINKS Water Sourcebooks, EPA
- [Water Treatment and Distribution Operator Math Reference Sheet](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/water-treatment-and-distribution-operator-math-reference-sheet/) - Commonly used formulas and conversions for water/wastewater operators. LINKS Water Treatment and Distribution Operator Math Reference Sheet
- [Wetland Walk Manual & Worksheet](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/wetland-walk-manual-worksheet/) - Use this guide and worksheet from EPA to explore your local wetland with students. The learning emphasis is on survey skills and understanding of wetland ecology and human interactions. LINKS Wetland Walk Manual & Worksheet
- [Wild Rose Education](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/wild-rose-education/) - Wild Rose Education strives to teach people 'how to see', to become better observers, and how to take action in the world through our participant-centered learning experiences. We go beyond what has been and facilitate becoming what can be with environmental education program design, climate change empowerment, and experiential education trainings and workshops. LINKS Wild
- [What's the Difference Between Waterbodies?](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/whats-the-difference-between-waterbodies/) - What’s the difference between a lake and a reservoir? A river and a stream? The Albuququerque Bernalillo County Water Authority Utility explains the differences.
- [Porky the Porcupine's Water Saving Tips](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/porky-the-porcupines-water-saving-tips/) - Watch as Porky the porcupine teaches us how to use less water every day.
- [Water Treatment in Ancient Rome](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/water-treatment-in-ancient-rome/) - Water management and treatment are as old as civilization itself. Ancient communities recognized the need for clean water and adequate water supplies. This short reading lesson describes how Ancient Rome treated water. LINKS Water Treatment in Ancient Rome
- [The History of Water Treatment Science](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/the-history-of-water-treatment-science/) - Chemistry plays a vital role in clean, safe drinking water. This short reading lesson describes how the chemical process of softening hard water began. LINKS The History of Water Treatment Science
- [Careers in Water Treatment](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/careers-in-water-treatment/) - Water careers can include technical, administrative, and financial roles across the water industry. Operators, financial analysts, directors, etc. are needed to ensure that the water system is functioning efficiently and effectively. LINKS Careers in Water Treatment
- [Water Education Program](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/water-education-program/) - Welcome to the Center New York Water Authority's Water Education Program page where you’ll find fun, interactive, and educational videos and links for kids who love learning about water as much as we do! Check out all of these awesome educational materials to explore the different aspects that go into water on this planet. On
- [How Does Water Treatment Work?](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/how-does-water-treatment-work/) - Learn about the process of making water safe to drink.
- [The Water Cycle](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/the-water-cycle/) - Hey kids! Ever wondered how it rains? Where does the water vapour disappear? Don't worry, Dr. Binocs is here with all the answers. For more fun filled facts and learn videos stay tuned to The Dr. Binocs Show. LINKS The Water Cycle
- [Teacher's Resources for Water Education](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/teachers-resources-for-water-education/) - This robust resource offers teachers guided lesson plans on topics including water access, the water cycle, water use and reuse, and more! LINKS Teacher's Resources for Water Education
- [Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging in Water Utilities](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/diversity-equity-inclusion-and-belonging-in-water-utilities/) - Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging are essential elements to a productive and successful workforce. This playlist provides an overview of DEIB and how to develop and support inclusive workplaces.
- [Water Activities Teacher Resource Guide, Colorado Springs Utilities](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/water-activities-teacher-resource-guide-colorado-springs-utilities/) - This Water Activities Teacher Guide is compiled and provided by Colorado Springs Utilities to assist with water education in the classroom. Included are over 30 hands-on activities for teachers to lead their students in, to better understand water ecology and basic treatment. LINKS Water Activities Teacher Resource Guide, Colorado Springs Utilities
- [Water/Wastewater Systems Engineer Job Profile](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/water-wastewater-systems-engineer-job-profile/) - Provides a brief overview of what a lab technician is, what they do, and what the typical qualifications are for working in this role or field. LINKS Water/Wastewater Systems Engineer Job Profile
- [Water Operator Job Profile](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/water-operator-job-profile/) - Provides a brief overview of what a lab technician is, what they do, and what the typical qualifications are for working in this role or field. LINKS Water Operator Job Profile
- [Wastewater Operator Job Profile](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/wastewater-operator-job-profile/) - Provides a brief overview of what a lab technician is, what they do, and what the typical qualifications are for working in this role or field. LINKS Wastewater Operator Job Profile
- [Water/Wastewater Lab Job Profile](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/water-wastewater-lab-job-profile/) - Provides a brief overview of what a lab technician is, what they do, and what the typical qualifications are for working in this role or field. LINKS Water/Wastewater Lab Job Profile
- [Understanding Our Water Footprint: High School Lesson Plans](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/understanding-our-water-footprint-high-school-lesson-plans/) - Lessons for Understanding Our Water Footprint” are a useful part of an environmental science curriculum. These high-school and undergraduate environmental science lessons build student awareness of direct and indirect (also known as virtual) water use . Three free, downloadable lessons encourage students to explore how their food choices and shopping habits have a larger impact
- [How Much Water Do You Use?](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/how-much-water-do-you-use/) - This activity handout helps students identify ways in which water is used and how much they and their families use. The lesson uses math, science, and critical thinking skills. LINKS How Much Water Do You Use?
- [Understanding Our Water Footprint: Middle School Lesson Plans](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/understanding-our-water-footprint-middle-school-lesson-plans/) - Lessons for Understanding Our Water Footprint” are middle-school science lesson plans that teach student about direct and indirect (also known as virtual) water use . Three free, downloadable lessons encourage students to learn about water resources and explore how their food choices and shopping habits have a larger impact on their daily water consumption and
- [Every Drop Counts](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for-educators/every-drop-counts/) - This lesson plan will help students identify water as one of Earth's resources and evelop understanding of how we use and care for it every day. This plan has two lessons and features links to more resources, including videos. LINKS Every Drop Counts

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- [Water Justice](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/category/water-justice/)
- [Grant Writing](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/category/grant-writing/)
- [Stormwater](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/category/stormwater/)
- [GIS](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/category/gis/)
- [Groundwater](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/category/groundwater/)
- [Treatment Processes](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/category/treatment-processes/)
- [Policy and Legislation](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/category/policy-and-legislation/)
- [Operator Certification](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/category/operator-certification/)
- [Request for Proposal](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/category/request-for-proposal/)
- [Pollution & Water Quality](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/category/pollution-water-quality/)
- [Complying with Wastewater Regulations](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/category/complying-with-wastewater-regulations/)
- [Wastewater Reuse & Reclamation](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/category/wastewater-reuse-reclamation/)
- [PFAS](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/category/pfas/)
- [Technical Assistance](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/category/technical-assistance/)
- [Access to Water/ Wastewater Funding Sources](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/category/access-to-water-wastewater-funding-sources/)
- [Small Water Systems](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/category/small-water-systems/)
- [Capital Improvement Planning](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/category/capital-improvement-planning/)
- [Community Engagement](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/category/community-engagement/)
- [Renewable Energy](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/category/renewable-energy/)
- [Solar Energy](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/category/solar-energy/)

## Tags

- [water](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/water/)
- [infrastructure](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/infrastructure/)
- [rates](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/rates/)
- [compliance](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/compliance/)
- [regulations](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/regulations/)
- [energy](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/energy/)
- [rate](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/rate/)
- [climate](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/climate/)
- [community](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/community/)
- [water conservation](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/water-conservation/)
- [workforce development](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/workforce-development/)
- [leadership](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/leadership/)
- [utility management](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/utility-management/)
- [water loss](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/water-loss/)
- [water management](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/water-management/)
- [resilience](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/resilience/)
- [small systems](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/small-systems/)
- [personnel policies](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/personnel-policies/)
- [asset management](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/asset-management/)
- [financial planning](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/financial-planning/)
- [water systems](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/water-systems/)
- [water infrastructure](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/water-infrastructure/)
- [revenue](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/revenue/)
- [affordability](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/affordability/)
- [customer assistance programs](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/customer-assistance-programs/)
- [funding](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/funding/)
- [grants](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/grants/)
- [srf](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/srf/)
- [small water systems](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/small-water-systems/)
- [financial management](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/financial-management/)
- [system collaboration](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/system-collaboration/)
- [criticality](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/criticality/)
- [mapping](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/mapping/)
- [GIS](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/gis/)
- [sustainability](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/sustainability/)
- [clean water](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/clean-water/)
- [source water protection](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/source-water-protection/)
- [water quality](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/water-quality/)
- [drinking water](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/drinking-water/)
- [data collection](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/data-collection/)
- [regionalization](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/regionalization/)
- [collaboration](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/collaboration/)
- [wastewater](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/wastewater/)
- [workforce planning](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/workforce-planning/)
- [aging workforce](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/aging-workforce/)
- [emergency planning](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/emergency-planning/)
- [climate change](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/climate-change/)
- [non-revenue water](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/non-revenue-water/)
- [EPA](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/epa/)
- [PFAS](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/pfas/)
- [PFAS chemicals](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/pfas-chemicals/)
- [emergencies](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/emergencies/)
- [affordable water](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/affordable-water/)
- [consolidation](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/consolidation/)
- [dashboard](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/dashboard/)
- [CMMS](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/cmms/)
- [EAM](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/eam/)
- [communication](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/communication/)
- [stormwater](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/stormwater/)
- [one water](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/one-water/)
- [water resource management](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/water-resource-management/)
- [management](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/management/)
- [emergency preparedness](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/emergency-preparedness/)
- [partnership](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/partnership/)
- [financial resilience](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/financial-resilience/)
- [septic](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/septic/)
- [septic tank](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/septic-tank/)
- [decentralized wastewater](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/decentralized-wastewater/)
- [Tribes](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/tribes/)
- [cybersecurity](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/cybersecurity/)
- [hazards](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/hazards/)
- [operations and maintenance](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/operations-and-maintenance/)
- [lift stations](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/lift-stations/)
- [green infrastructure](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/green-infrastructure/)
- [workforce](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/workforce/)
- [water careers](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/water-careers/)
- [education](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/education/)
- [pet waste](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/pet-waste/)
- [QGIS](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/qgis/)
- [col](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/col/)
- [tools](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/tools/)
- [Resources](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/resources/)
- [multimedia](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/multimedia/)
- [BIL](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/bil/)
- [wastewater reuse](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/wastewater-reuse/)
- [public relations](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/public-relations/)
- [operations](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/operations/)
- [grant writing](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/grant-writing/)
- [proposals](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/proposals/)
- [RFP](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/rfp/)
- [lagoon](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/lagoon/)
- [Point Source Pollution](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/point-source-pollution/)
- [Non-point Source Pollution](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/non-point-source-pollution/)
- [Community Engagement](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/community-engagement/)
- [cesspools](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/cesspools/)
- [outreach](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/outreach/)
- [communication campaigns](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/communication-campaigns/)
- [wastewater basics](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/wastewater-basics/)
- [sewer](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/sewer/)
- [manholes](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/manholes/)
- [wastewater treatment plant](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/wastewater-treatment-plant/)
- [municipal reuse](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/municipal-reuse/)
- [public perception](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/public-perception/)
- [wastewater education](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/wastewater-education/)
- [3M](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/3m/)
- [DuPont](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/dupont/)
- [stakeholder engagement](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/stakeholder-engagement/)
- [access gap](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/access-gap/)
- [USDA](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/usda/)
- [PFAS Contamination](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/pfas-contamination/)
- [PFAS Outreach](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/pfas-outreach/)
- [Internship Experience](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/internship-experience/)
- [Wastewater Management](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/wastewater-management/)
- [Environmental Outreach](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/environmental-outreach/)
- [community outreach](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/community-outreach/)
- [septic system](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/septic-system/)
- [innovative/alternative septic](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/innovative-alternative-septic/)
- [septic utility](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/septic-utility/)
- [cape cod](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/cape-cod/)
- [morgan state university](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/morgan-state-university/)
- [funding committee](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/funding-committee/)
- [Septic Tank Maintenance](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/septic-tank-maintenance/)
- [Spring Septic Care](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/spring-septic-care/)
- [Septic Tank Tips](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/septic-tank-tips/)
- [Spring Maintenance](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/spring-maintenance/)
- [Healthy Septic System](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/healthy-septic-system/)
- [Home Maintence](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/home-maintence/)
- [Eco Friendly Living](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/eco-friendly-living/)
- [Fat oil grease](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/fat-oil-grease/)
- [FOG](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/fog/)
- [engineer](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/engineer/)
- [design](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/design/)
- [engineers](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/engineers/)
- [operators](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/operators/)
- [technical assistance](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/technical-assistance/)
- [capital improvement plan](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/capital-improvement-plan/)
- [fiscal sustainability](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/fiscal-sustainability/)
- [animation](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/animation/)
- [youtube short](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/youtube-short/)
- [oxygen](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/oxygen/)
- [aeration](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/aeration/)
- [algae](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/algae/)
- [algal turf scrubbers](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/algal-turf-scrubbers/)
- [social intelligence](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/social-intelligence/)
- [TA](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/ta/)
- [cluster systems](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/cluster-systems/)
- [cesspool conversion](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/cesspool-conversion/)
- [Hawaii](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/hawaii/)
- [CBP3](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/cbp3/)
- [program management](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/program-management/)
- [GSI](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/gsi/)
- [ASMR](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/asmr/)
- [Pretreatment](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/pretreatment/)
- [public education](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/public-education/)
- [public outreach](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/public-outreach/)
- [customer outreach](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/customer-outreach/)
- [football](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/football/)
- [NPDES](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/npdes/)
- [NPDES permit](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/npdes-permit/)
- [lagoon maintenance](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/lagoon-maintenance/)
- [homeowners](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/homeowners/)
- [state revolving funds](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/state-revolving-funds/)
- [closing the gap](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/closing-the-gap/)
- [CSO](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/cso/)
- [nature-based solutions](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/nature-based-solutions/)
- [solar](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/solar/)
- [tax credit](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/tax-credit/)
- [lead](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/lead/)
- [lead service line replacement](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/lead-service-line-replacement/)
- [LSLI](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/lsli/)
- [lead service line inventory](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/lead-service-line-inventory/)
- [Lead and Copper Rule Improvements](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/lead-and-copper-rule-improvements/)
- [annual audit](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/annual-audit/)
- [financial statements](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/financial-statements/)
- [septic systems](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/septic-systems/)
- [equity](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/equity/)
- [partnerships](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/partnerships/)
- [combined sewer overflows](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/combined-sewer-overflows/)
- [urban planning](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/urban-planning/)
- [flushing](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/flushing/)
- [best practices](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/best-practices/)
- [Smart Technology](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/smart-technology/)
- [O&M](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/om/)
- [computerized maintenance](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/computerized-maintenance/)
- [grease trap](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/grease-trap/)
- [Fats Oils and Grease (FOG)](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/fats-oils-and-grease-fog/)
- [Sanitary Sewer Overflows (SSO)](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/sanitary-sewer-overflows-sso/)
- [Grease Interceptor](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/grease-interceptor/)
- [testing](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/testing/)
- [wastewater treatment](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/wastewater-treatment/)
- [chemical usage](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/chemical-usage/)
- [jar testing](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/jar-testing/)
- [Resource Management](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/resource-management/)
- [Capital Improvement Planning](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/capital-improvement-planning/)
- [Project Prioritization](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/project-prioritization/)
- [Asset Inventory](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/asset-inventory/)
- [subsidy](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/subsidy/)
- [incentive programs](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/incentive-programs/)
- [Climate Action Plan](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/climate-action-plan/)
- [Community engage](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/community-engage/)
- [Septic Tank Health](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/septic-tank-health/)
- [federal regulations](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/federal-regulations/)
- [water quality sampling](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/water-quality-sampling/)
- [sampling](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/sampling/)
- [strategic plan](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/strategic-plan/)
- [strategic planning](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/strategic-planning/)
- [balanced scorecard](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/balanced-scorecard/)
- [aging infrastructure](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/aging-infrastructure/)
- [water advisory committees](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/water-advisory-committees/)
- [SCADA](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/scada/)
- [water main break](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/water-main-break/)
- [shovel-ready](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/shovel-ready/)
- [shovel-worthy](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/shovel-worthy/)
- [funding application](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/funding-application/)
- [risk](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/risk/)
- [risk management](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/risk-management/)
- [case study](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/case-study/)
- [team management](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/team-management/)
- [managerial capacity](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/managerial-capacity/)
- [fees](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/fees/)
- [clean water needs survey](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/clean-water-needs-survey/)
- [infrastructure funding](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/infrastructure-funding/)
- [Leak Detection](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/leak-detection/)
- [rural systems](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/rural-systems/)
- [valves](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/valves/)
- [valve exercising](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/valve-exercising/)
- [wildfire](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/wildfire/)
- [job interview](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/job-interview/)
- [audit](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/audit/)
- [financial audit](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/financial-audit/)
- [capital assets](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/capital-assets/)
- [waterta](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/waterta/)
- [press release](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/press-release/)
- [press](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/press/)
- [for immediate release](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/for-immediate-release/)
- [media release](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/media-release/)
- [Rural](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/rural/)
- [water operator](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/water-operator/)
- [pfas sampling](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/pfas-sampling/)
- [renewable energy](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/renewable-energy/)
- [cip](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/cip/)
- [reinvestment](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/reinvestment/)
- [long-term planning](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/long-term-planning/)
- [tariffs](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/tariffs/)
- [policy](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/policy/)
- [wastewater infrastructure](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/wastewater-infrastructure/)
- [ai](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/ai/)
- [artificial intelligence](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/artificial-intelligence/)
- [community organization](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/community-organization/)
- [rate analysis](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/tag/rate-analysis/)

## Event categories

- [Wastewater](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/event_listing_category/wastewater/)
- [Access to Water Funding Sources](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/event_listing_category/access-to-water-funding-sources/)
- [Access to Wastewater Funding Sources](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/event_listing_category/access-to-wastewater-funding-sources/)
- [Funding and Financing](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/event_listing_category/funding-and-financing/)

## Event types

- [Virtual Training](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/event_listing_type/virtual-training/) - Instructor-led, face-to-face sessions with opportunity for direct discussion and interaction with subject matter experts.
- [Webinar](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/event_listing_type/webinar/) - EFCN Webinars are instructor-led sessions on a variety of topics; webinars may be viewed live with the option to submit typed questions or viewed via a recording.
- [Virtual Office Hours](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/event_listing_type/virtual-office-hours/)

## Type

- [section](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/layout_type/section/)
- [module](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/layout_type/module/)

## Module Width

- [regular](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/module_width/regular/)

## Scope

- [global](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/scope/global/)
- [not_global](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/scope/not_global/)

## Type

- [Tools](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/resource-type/tools/) - Our tools make assessing different aspects of your water or wastewater’s systems finances or management decisions easy, typically built with excel spreadsheets or similar word-processing programs.
- [Publications](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/resource-type/publications/) - Our publications offer cutting-edge analysis on a variety of pressing issues, from infrastructure finance to watershed management.
- [Dashboards](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/resource-type/dashboard/) - The EFCN’s dashboards are interactive, data-driven platforms that support users in comparing multiple indicators relevant to a water or wastewater utility’s performance.
- [Infohub](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/resource-type/info-hub/)

## Resource Type

- [Video](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for_educators_resource_type/video/)
- [Lesson Plan](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for_educators_resource_type/lesson-plan/)
- [Hardcopy/Print](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for_educators_resource_type/hardcopy-print/)
- [Web-based](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for_educators_resource_type/web-based/)
- [Learning Kits](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for_educators_resource_type/learning-kits/)
- [Training & Expertise](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/for_educators_resource_type/training-expertise/)

## Audience

- [Post-High School](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/audience/post-high-school/)
- [6th - 8th](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/audience/6th-8th/)
- [High School Students](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/audience/high-school-students/)
- [K - 5th](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/audience/k-5th/)
- [Counselors](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/audience/counselors/)
- [All Grade Levels](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/audience/all-grade-levels/)
- [Teachers](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/audience/teachers/)
- [Field Instructors & Program Leaders](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/audience/field-instructors-program-leaders/)

## Subject

- [Water](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/subject/water/)
- [Wastewater](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/subject/wastewater/)
- [STEM](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/subject/stem/)
- [Water & Wastewater](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/subject/water-wastewater/)
- [Climate Change](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/subject/climate-change/)
- [Careers in general/Public Service](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/subject/careers-in-general-public-service/)
- [Social Studies](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/subject/social-studies/)
- [Science](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/subject/science/)

## Learning Objective

- [Learning Objective 1](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/learning_objective/learning-objective-1/)
- [Learning Objective 2](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/learning_objective/learning-objective-2/)
- [Learning Objective 3](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/learning_objective/learning-objective-3/)
- [Learning Objective 4](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/learning_objective/learning-objective-4/)
- [Learning Objective 5](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/learning_objective/learning-objective-5/)
- [Learning Objective 6](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/learning_objective/learning-objective-6/)
- [Learning Objective 7](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/learning_objective/learning-objective-7/)
- [Learning Objective 8](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/learning_objective/learning-objective-8/)

## Type

- [Blog](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/multimedia-type/blog/) - Our blogs are written by staff and experts covering various industry subjects and news to keep our audience well-informed on a range of topics, spanning from Billing Frequency, Funding & Finance, to PFAS Treatment.
- [Podcast](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/multimedia-type/podcast/) - Tune in to engaging audio-only episodes, where experts discuss innovative solutions for water sector challenges in an on-demand format.
- [Video](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/multimedia-type/video/) - Our videos are typically brief and tailored to educate our audience (or their stakeholders) on an array of topics, ranging from Wastewater Math tutorials to Signs of a Failing Septic System.
- [Animation](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/multimedia-type/animation/) - Our increasingly popular animated videos creatively convey information visually and often address commonly asked questions and concerns.
- [Webinar](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/multimedia-type/webinar/) - Our recorded national webinars are typically 1-hour in duration and explore a diversity of topics. If you can’t find what you’re looking for on this page, check out the EFCN YouTube Channel!

## States

- [Alabama](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/state/alabama/)
- [Alaska](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/state/alaska/)
- [Arizona](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/state/arizona/)
- [Arkansas](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/state/arkansas/)
- [California](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/state/california/)
- [Colorado](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/state/colorado/)
- [Connecticut](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/state/connecticut/)
- [Delaware](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/state/delaware/)
- [Florida](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/state/florida/)
- [Georgia](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/state/georgia/)
- [Hawaii](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/state/hawaii/)
- [Idaho](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/state/idaho/)
- [Illinois](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/state/illinois/)
- [Indiana](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/state/indiana/)
- [Iowa](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/state/iowa/)
- [Kansas](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/state/kansas/)
- [Kentucky](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/state/kentucky/)
- [Louisiana](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/state/louisiana/)
- [Maine](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/state/maine/)
- [Maryland](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/state/maryland/)
- [Massachusetts](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/state/massachusetts/)
- [Michigan](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/state/michigan/)
- [Minnesota](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/state/minnesota/)
- [Mississippi](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/state/mississippi/)
- [Missouri](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/state/missouri/)
- [Montana](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/state/montana/)
- [Nebraska](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/state/nebraska/)
- [Nevada](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/state/nevada/)
- [New Hampshire](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/state/new-hampshire/)
- [New Jersey](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/state/new-jersey/)
- [New Mexico](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/state/new-mexico/)
- [New York](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/state/new-york/)
- [North Carolina](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/state/north-carolina/)
- [North Dakota](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/state/north-dakota/)
- [Ohio](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/state/ohio/)
- [Oklahoma](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/state/oklahoma/)
- [Oregon](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/state/oregon/)
- [Pennsylvania](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/state/pennsylvania/)
- [Rhode Island](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/state/rhode-island/)
- [South Carolina](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/state/south-carolina/)
- [South Dakota](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/state/south-dakota/)
- [Tennessee](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/state/tennessee/)
- [Texas](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/state/texas/)
- [Utah](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/state/utah/)
- [Vermont](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/state/vermont/)
- [Virginia](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/state/virginia/)
- [Washington](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/state/washington/)
- [West Virginia](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/state/west-virginia/)
- [Wisconsin](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/state/wisconsin/)
- [Wyoming](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/state/wyoming/)
- [American Samoa](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/state/american-samoa/)
- [District of Columbia](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/state/district-of-columbia/)
- [Federated States of Micronesia](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/state/federated-states-of-micronesia/)
- [Guam](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/state/guam/)
- [Marshall Islands](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/state/marshall-islands/)
- [Northern Mariana Islands](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/state/northern-mariana-islands/)
- [Palau](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/state/palau/)
- [Puerto Rico](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/state/puerto-rico/)
- [Virgin Islands](http://dev-efcn.pantheonsite.io/state/virgin-islands/)