For over 60 years, our goal at Boxelder Sanitation District has always been to put our community first. One way we do this is by remaining active in conversations that can impact our district and our customers. This time last year, our blog described how we hosted a presentation given by the North Front Range Water Quality Planning Association (NFRWQPA) on the topic of nonpoint source pollution. The presentation was given at a board meeting at our main office and was attended by representatives from State Senator Cathy Kipp’s office and the City of Fort Collins, to create more awareness among policymakers.

A representative from Boxelder, as well as representatives from several other utilities, make up the NFRWQPA and are dedicated to studying and planning for water quality in Larimer and Weld Counties. However, the NFRWQPA isn’t the only organization that we partner with. For years, Boxelder has been participating in industry organizations whose aim is to create collaborative conversations around water and wastewater regulations, safety, and beneficial advances in technology.

Regional organizations we partner with.

Boxelder partners with two regional organizations.

·         Rocky Mountain Water Environment Association (RMWEA)

·         Special District Association of Colorado (SDA)

 Rocky Mountain Water Environment Association (RMWEA) focuses on “the most current information on water quality issues, technology, regulatory changes, and the latest research developments.” RMWEA is a collaborative effort by industry leaders to share their experience and expertise through presentations, committee participation, or conferences. There are even opportunities for operators to participate in hands-on courses taught by industry experts to upgrade operational skills, obtain the required training units for certification renewal, or obtain additional education and support those studying for certification exams. 

The Special District Association of Colorado (SDA) provides special districts in Colorado with up-to-date information involving state legislation, research, and educational opportunities. This organization is made up of professionals from all special districts, not just water utilities. Library, school, fire, and health districts are all part of the SDA and benefit from the organization’s efforts to keep these vital services informed of the latest changes coming from our state legislators and regulatory agencies.

Boxelder has national-level partners.

There are three nationwide organizations that provide valuable insight into legislative shifts, regulatory changes, and industry innovations.

·         Water Environment Federation (WEF)

·         American Water Works Association (AWWA)

·         National Association of Clean Water Agencies (NACWA)

The Water Environment Federation (WEF) is a non-profit that focuses on water quality education, training, and networking for professionals in the water and wastewater industry. Their goal is to share knowledge among industry leaders to improve water quality across the country. WEF offers online courses for operators and people in leadership positions in water and wastewater utilities.

The American Water Works Association (AWWA) provides industry professionals with eLearning courses, training, and webinars that can be applied to operator certificates. Both RMWEA and the AWWA have job boards that connect professionals with open positions in the industry. The AWWA promotes young professionals seeking to advance their careers by offering scholarships and opportunities to bring that knowledge back to their utility districts, ultimately benefiting the communities they serve.

The National Association of Clean Water Agencies (NACWA) provides wastewater and stormwater utilities with legislative, regulatory, and legal advocacy on a wide range of clean water issues. The national conversation about per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) has led to new laws and regulations affecting the water, wastewater, and stormwater industries. Organizations like NACWA help districts like ours stay in the know as regulatory and legislative updates are rolled out at the national level.

What does this all mean for Boxelder customers?

Participation in organizations like these provides the professionals at Boxelder Sanitation with the most accurate, innovative, and up-to-date information on a wide range of issues affecting our district. Being part of conversations around water quality, regulations, and technology gives us the resources to forecast projects and stay on top of regulatory changes. This translates into responsible financial planning and curbs the need for significant rate increases. You can be sure that our staff at Boxelder Sanitation have access to resources that make the district work better for you for the next 60 years.