American Water Works Association

American Water Works Association 1992 logo (%22Blue Thumb%22)

American Water Works Association

The American Water Works Association (AWWA) is an international, nonprofit, scientific, and educational society dedicated to providing total water solutions to ensure the effective management of water. Founded in 1881, AWWA is the largest organization of water supply professionals in the world. The association's membership includes over 50,000 members representing utilities, government agencies, consulting firms, manufacturers, and academia.

History

The AWWA was established in 1881 by a group of water supply professionals who recognized the need for a national organization to address the challenges of providing safe and reliable water. The first meeting was held in St. Louis, Missouri, and the organization has since grown to include members from around the globe.

Mission and Goals

The mission of the AWWA is to provide solutions to effectively manage water, the world's most important resource. The association aims to:

• Promote public health, safety, and welfare by ensuring the quality and quantity of water.
• Advance the science, technology, and application of water supply.
• Educate the public and water professionals about water issues.
• Advocate for sound water policies and regulations.

Membership

AWWA's membership is diverse, including:

• Utilities: Organizations that provide water services to the public.
• Government agencies: Entities involved in the regulation and oversight of water resources.
• Consulting firms: Companies that provide expertise and services related to water management.
• Manufacturers: Producers of equipment and materials used in water supply systems.
• Academia: Researchers and educators focused on water-related studies.

Publications and Resources

AWWA publishes a variety of resources to support its members and the water industry, including:

• Journal - American Water Works Association: A monthly publication featuring peer-reviewed research and articles on water industry topics.
• Opflow: A monthly magazine providing practical solutions for water professionals.
• Manuals of Water Supply Practices: Comprehensive guides on various aspects of water supply management.
• Standards: Authoritative documents that establish criteria for products, processes, and practices in the water industry.

Conferences and Events

AWWA hosts several conferences and events throughout the year, including:

• Annual Conference & Exposition (ACE): The largest conference for water professionals, featuring technical sessions, workshops, and an exhibit hall.
• Water Quality Technology Conference (WQTC): Focused on water quality issues and solutions.
• Sustainable Water Management Conference: Addressing sustainability practices in water management.

Education and Training

AWWA offers a range of educational and training opportunities, such as:

• Workshops and seminars on various water-related topics.
• Online courses and webinars for remote learning.
• Certification programs for water professionals to demonstrate their expertise.

Advocacy and Policy

AWWA actively engages in advocacy efforts to influence water policy and regulation. The association works with lawmakers, regulators, and other stakeholders to promote sound water management practices and ensure the protection of water resources.

See Also

• Water supply
• Water quality
• Water management
• Environmental engineering
• Public health