Ohio Rural Water Association

...improving the quality of life in rural Ohio
Why Join ORWA? Click Here to see our Member Brochure!! Please Note: A number of our documents require Acrobat Reader (PDF). Download here if you do not have it installed.	Greetings, I would like to welcome you to our Web Site. Since 1976, ORWA has provided free on site technical assistance to rural communities with water and wastewater systems. Today, we continue to expand the base of benefits we provide to our members. Our system members provide water and/or wastewater services to approximately 1.6 million Ohioans. Sincerely, Kevin Strang - ORWA Executive Director	Contact Info 55 Whites Rd Zanesville, OH 43701 ph: 740-455-3911 fax: 740-455-3899 tollfree: 800-589-7985 email: ORWA@Ohiowater.org Pictures from the 2006 National Conference
*5th Congressional District Representative Paul Gillmore Dies* Paul Gilmor was found dead in his apartment of an apparent heart attack this morning. Representative Gillmor was a strong, long-time supporter of Rural Water, and will be missed. Click Here for more information. *2007 ORWA Expo - Tentative Agenda* Tues Oct 23, Wed Oct 23, 2007 - Roberts Center, Wilmington Ohio Click Image for Agenda *Thanks to Rural Lorain County for hosting a great Quarterly Meeting !* With over 103 registrants the recent Summer Quarterly meeting at Put-In-Bay made this event one of the best attended quarterly meetings in recent memory. The Association would like to offer a most sincere round of thanks to the Board and Staff of Rural Lorain for hosting this event. The combination of one of Ohio's premier tourists destinations, great presentations and wonderful local food made for a memorable event. We also generated $ 585.00 for Water Pac! Again, thank you to all of those that worked to make this meeting a success. Rural Development’s $9 Million Funding Ensures Butler’s Sewer Services Meet Growing Demands COLUMBUS, OHIO, Aug. 30, 2007 – Randall Hunt, state director for USDA Rural Development announced today approval of a $9,070,000 financing package to Butler County, Ohio. The funding is from Rural Development’s Water and Waste Disposal Loan and Grant Program and will be used to increase the county’s sewage handling capacity. “As s in rural communities continue to increase, so does their need for expanded water and sewer services,” said Hunt. “Improving environmental safety conditions and overall quality of life for Ohio’s rural residents are primary focuses of our Water and Waste Program. Funding will be used to construct approximately seven miles of a gravity sewer collection system and pump station to the unincorporated areas of Williamsdale and Overpeck in St. Clair Township. The sewage treatment will be provided by the New Miami wastewater treatment plant. The Water and Waste Disposal Loan and Grant Program makes direct loans and grants to build or improve essential public use facilities such as water and sewer facilities, storm sewers and solid waste facilities. USDA Rural Development's mission is to deliver programs in a way that will support increasing economic opportunity and improve the quality of life of rural residents. Rural Development provides equity and technical assistance to finance and foster growth in homeownership, business development, and critical community and technology infrastructure. Further information on rural programs is available by calling 614-255-2400, visiting a local USDA Rural Development office or by viewing USDA Rural Development’s web site at http://www.rurdev.usda.gov. Rural communities can get USDA help in reducing high energy costs Rural communities nationwide will have access to $21.9 million to help cope with high energy costs. Communities must apply before Oct. 1 for the grants, which are administered by the United States Department of Agriculture. "These grants will help rural residents and businesses upgrade energy infrastructure and make other energy efficiency improvements," said U.S. Agriculture Secretary Mike Johanns. "The rising cost of energy can challenge economic growth and opportunity. These grants are another example of how USDA works to help rural communities overcome economic obstacles and create opportunity." The funds can be used to acquire, construct, extend, upgrade or otherwise improve energy generation, transmission or distribution facilities serving communities in which the average residential cost for home energy exceeds 275 percent of the national average. Grants are available to individuals, businesses, non-profit organization, states, local governments and federally recognized Indian tribes. Grants may not be used to pay utility bills or purchase fuel and may not be used for the sole benefit of the applicant. The application guide for this grant can be found at the USDA website or at Grants.gov under the Code of Domestic Federal Assistance Number 10.859 The following is another USDA grant program (through the Rural Housing Service) for communities and small businesses in rural areas to implement or promote energy efficiency open for applications through Sept. 6. One of the criteria, worth 20 of the 100 total points, is: "6. Technical assistance for the development of Renewable Energy Systems and Energy Efficiency Improvements--20 Points. The applicant must demonstrate how they will improve the recipients' capacity to carry out activities related to the development of renewable energy systems and energy efficiency improvements for housing, community facilities, or community and economic development." If you have any questions regarding information contained in this news release or experience any problems accessing the information provided, please contact us! Thanks to Rural Lorain County for hosting a great Quarterly Meeting !* With over 103 registrants the recent Summer Quarterly meeting at Put-In-Bay made this event one of the best attended quarterly meetings in recent memory. The Association would like to offer a most sincere round of thanks to the Board and Staff of Rural Lorain for hosting this event. The combination of one of Ohio's premier tourists destinations, great presentations and wonderful local food made for a memorable event. We also generated $ 585.00 for Water Pac! Again thank you to all of those that worked to make this meeting a success. 2008 Membership Renewals Yes it is that time of year again when we start to send out our membership renewals. Do not forget to fill out all of the contact information when you receive your membership package. We need that information particularly the legislative information to effectively communicate with our representatives in Washington. Also in addition to our traditional benefits of Workman's Comp discount programs. Exhibitions and training events *we will soon be offering over 16 courses that can be taken on line.* That's right from the comfort of you office, at home or any place your have time and access to the net you can get the contact hours you or your staff need!! Rural Development Awards $1.3 Million to Upgrade Butler County’s Servicing Capacity COLUMBUS, OHIO, Aug. 21, 2007 – Randall Hunt, state director for USDA Rural Development announced today approval of a $1,300,000 financing package to Butler County, Ohio. The funding is from Rural Development’s Community Facility Loan and Grant Program and will be used to purchase new vehicles and equipment to better serve Butler County residents. “Rural communities have a consistent need to upgrade and maintain equipment in order to provide essential services to their residents,” said Hunt. “Our Community Facility Program provides another tool for community leaders to meet the growing needs of its citizenry.” The Community Facility Program uses grants and loans to help communities develop essential facilities for public use. These facilities include libraries, childcare, hospitals, medical clinics, assisted living facilities, fire and rescue stations, police stations, community centers, public buildings and transportation. USDA Rural Development's mission is to deliver programs in a way that will support increasing economic opportunity and improve the quality of life of rural residents. Rural Development provides equity and technical assistance to finance and foster growth in homeownership, business development, and critical community and technology infrastructure. Further information on rural programs is available by calling 614-255-2400, visiting a local USDA Rural Development office or by viewing USDA Rural Development’s web site at http://www.rurdev.usda.gov. Rural Development Awards $64,000 in Funding for Waste Management Program COLUMBUS, OHIO, Aug. 17, 2007 – Randall Hunt, state director for USDA Rural Development announced today approval of a $64,500 grant to Mahoning County Solid Waste Management District in Mahoning County, Ohio. The funding comes from Rural Development’s Solid Waste Management Grant Program. “Rural Development’s Solid Waste Management Program provides critical funding to assist small rural communities develop and implement local waste management initiatives,” said Hunt. “Educational efforts help residents better understand how they can help improve the overall health and appearance of their communities.” Mahoning County Solids Waste Management District’s will use the funding to help finance its Rural Recycling Education and Awareness Program (REAP). REAP promotes and assists the recycling efforts throughout the rural areas of Mahoning County. Mahoning County’s Solid Waste Management District contributed $108,587 towards the project, bringing the total project costs to $173,087. USDA Rural Development's mission is to deliver programs in a way that will support increasing economic opportunity and improve the quality of life of rural residents. Rural Development provides equity and technical assistance to finance and foster growth in homeownership, business development, and critical community and technology infrastructure. Further information on rural programs is available by calling 614-255-2400, visiting a local USDA Rural Development office or by viewing USDA Rural Development’s web site at http://www.rurdev.usda.gov. Attention Associate Members We need your input !!! The association is in the process of restructuring the annual Exposition. We have a number of suggestions that will help us better serve our Associate members. To that end if you would like to participate in the following survey we encourage you to take this opportunity to have your opinion heard! Click Here for Survey We are also planning more events for Members and their Spouses on the Monday before the Conference "starts". Please help us determine the events you will enjoy best. Click Here for Survey. Ohio BWC Safety & Health Courses Listed Dozens of of training courses are available through BWC's Division of Safety & Hygiene. These courses are offered at our training center in Pickerington at the Ohio Center for Occupational Safety and Health (OCOSH) and at branch sites and BWC service offices across the state, including Toledo, Cincinnati, Canton, Cambridge, Portsmouth, Youngstown and Cleveland. Employers may enroll any number of employees at no additional cost. Click Here for more info. Upcoming Bureau of Workman's Comp University The Ohio Bureau of Workers' Compensation (BWC) wants to help you get the information you need to stabilize your costs and care for your most valuable asset - your employees. At Workers’ Compensation University (WCU) you will get this information at no cost to you. (Click Here for details) House Bill 289 Introduced To amend sections 931.02, 931.03, 931.04, 931.99, and 5709.28 of the Revised Code to make changes to the law governing agricultural security areas. Section 1. That sections 931.02, 931.03, 931.04, 931.99, and 5709.28 of the Revised Code be amended to read as follows... Click here for the entire Bill. Water In The News Much has been said on the benefits of good, clean water. How you get that water can affect more than just your thirst... Tap water or bottled water? The myth of the bottle doesn't hold water when you begin to take more than marketing into consideration... "...Ounce for ounce, it costs more than gasoline, even at today's high gasoline prices; depending on the brand, it costs 250 to 10,000 times more than tap water. Globally, bottled water is now a $46 billion industry. Why has it become so popular?" " ...Admittedly, both kinds of water suffer from occasional contamination problems, but tap water is more stringently monitored and tightly regulated than bottled water..." (click here for full article) Wastewater In The News You might have heard this story, but its an amazing tale of quick-thinking heroism by some unlikely first-responders... (click here for full story) USDA Rural Development Finances $6.5 Million Construction of New Tuscarawas Water System COLUMBUS, OHIO, July 6, 2007 – Randall Hunt, state director for USDA Rural Development announced today approval of a $6,574,000 financing package to construct a new water distribution system for Tuscarawas County, Ohio. The funding comes from Rural Development’s Water and Waste Disposal Loan and Grant Program. “Tuscarawas County officials have continually gained more experience with using our programs,” said Hunt. “Their ability to plan for present and future community needs has provided positive returns to county residents. Rural Development is proud to be a partner in these kinds of critical local infrastructure projects.” The funding will be used for the construction of a water distribution system which will include a booster station and a 150,000 gallon storage tank. The project will interconnect the subsystems of Wilkshire Hills and Mineral City and provide an emergency connection to the Village of Magnolia. The project will provide service to 160 homes in the Sandyville area. Total funding for the project is $7,214,000 and includes a $4,930,000 loan and a $1,644,000 grant from Rural Development. The Ohio Public Works Commission contributed $400,000 while Tuscarawas residents added $240,000 through tap fees. USDA Rural Development's mission is to deliver programs in a way that will support increasing economic opportunity and improve the quality of life of rural residents. Rural Development provides equity and technical assistance to finance and foster growth in home ownership, business development, and critical community and technology infrastructure. Further information on rural programs is available by calling 614-255-2400, visiting a local USDA Rural Development office or by viewing USDA Rural Development’s web site at http://www.rurdev.usda.gov. Legislative Page Updated Click Here to see what Bills are of interest to us as Water / Wastewater Professionals. Deadline for Ohio EPA non-sequential operator examination is July 1, 2007 Click Here for Info EPA DIRECTOR GRANTED PERMIT REVISION AUTHORITY, HOME SEWAGE RULES RESCINDED IN LATEST VERSION OF BIENNIUM BUDGET A multi-faceted amendment to the $52.4 billion biennium budget bill won support in the Senate Tuesday morning. Changes to the bill, slated for a full chamber vote Wednesday, include the scrapping of controversial home sewage system regulations and a provision that allows the EPA director to alter certain permits under review by the Environmental Review Appeals Commission. More details in today’s Gongwer News Service Ohio Report. New BWC Course Listings! Be sure to contact the Division of Safety & Hygiene regarding their newest courses for FY08, which include: Emergency Preparedness Planning Employee Safety for Staffing Companies and PEOs Public Employers: Injury, Illness and Needle-stick Recordkeeping Restaurant and Food Service Safety Communicating Safety to your Spanish Speaking Workforce All classes are free. For more information or to enroll, visit www.bwclearningcenter.com or call 1-800-OHIOBWC and press 2, then 2 and 2 again. ORWA 2007 Summer Quarterly Flyer Posted Click Here for PDF Errata: PLEASE NOTE: The Ferry does NOT leave at 7:45AM... The first ferry is at 8:45AM. The start of the meeting will be delayed slightly to allow for the later arrival. New Technology Can Be Retrofitted to Protect Hydrants from Tampering We are concerned with safety. Safety for our employees, safety for our equipment, and most importantly - the safety of those who consume our water. A recent invention being tested in Georgia can help protect our distribution system by securing fire hydrants. Click here for more... (video) Ohio BWC Saftey & Health Division Classes Dozens of of training courses are available through BWC's Division of Safety & Hygiene. These courses are offered at our training center in Pickerington at the Ohio Center for Occupational Safety and Health (OCOSH) and at branch sites and BWC service offices across the state, including Toledo, Cincinnati, Canton, Cambridge, Portsmouth, Youngstown and Cleveland. Employers may enroll any number of employees at no additional cost. To enroll or learn more about the classroom available July - September 2007, visit the BWC Learning Center at bwclearningcenter.com. Click here for (PDF) information. Attention 2007 Expo Exhibitors The Association would like to thank all of our associate members that participated in our annual Conference and Expo. We are in the planning stages of some significant changes for next year. First we plan to eliminate the $100 per hour drawing it is no longer serving the intended purpose. We are planning to replace it with a reception in the expo hall (paid for by the association) starting at five when typically the expo in scheduled to end and lasting until the start of the social events at 7:00pm. We can then generate post card style invitations that you or your representatives can give clients and potential clients to this event and giving them a complimentary pass to our annual social events. This way we hope to generate more foot traffic. If you would like to offer any additional suggestions please email us by clicking here. At the closing of the Expo on Wednesday we will have an ceremony with awards to the exhibitors and prize drawings. DO YOU APPRECIATE CLEAN, SAFE DRINKING WATER? WATER WEEK IS MAY 6 – 12 Drinking water providers across the nation are contacting their representatives and senators in our nation’s congress to inform them about the present situation rural water programs are facing. When you turn on your faucet, do you think of the hard working trained professionals at your local drinking water provider? If you appreciate the services and dedication provided by them, send them a note of appreciation and read on to find out how you can get involved. In the late 1970s, programs were created to provide free technical assistance to the small and rural water systems which were beginning to pop up across the country through funding provided by the Farmers Home Administration ( now Rural Development), under the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Two of the programs which were created to provide help are being slashed from state associations leaving some small and rural water systems without free technical assistance. The programs consist of training and wellhead/source water protection assistance. These two programs are very important to many of the water systems in Lawrence County Ohio. Since the new Ohio EPA water operator license renewal requirements, it has become necessary for the water operators of Lawrence County to find as much free training as possible to keep their state issued license. A class III or IV water operator is responsible for acquiring 24 training hours in a two year period at an average cost of $400, not including traveling expenses or time away from work. If an operator is in charge of both the water and wastewater operations, double the cost. The Ohio Rural Water training program was created to provide the opportunity for operators to receive training at no charge, often times the training is on site. Groundwater systems, such as; Hecla Water, South Point Water and Coal Grove Water; are required by EPA to implement a wellhead protection plan for protection of the water source. The state rural water association wellhead protection/ source protection programs will assist in creating and upgrading protection plans, at no charge to the small and rural water systems. Working with trained technicians from the state rural water association, water systems can set a complete plan into action for protecting their water source. Before this program was provided by state rural water associations, costly engineering advice was all that was available to assist a water system in completing their protection plan. For many years, rural water programs were funded with “earmarked” funds which were included in the EPA funds provided by congress. “Earmarked” funds are under a stipulation that the receiving agency hold the money for the programs named. However, this year, EPA was given the funds without the stipulation they be used for training and wellhead/ source water protection efforts through state rural water associations. The current EPA work plan essentially discontinues these programs provided by each state water association. Rural Water and EPA Office of Water have a very cooperative working relationship. The funding decisions came from the highest political levels of EPA, not the local EPA people who work with water systems. What is rural water’s recourse? Asking members of congress to sign “the Dear Colleague letter in support of rural water environmental initiatives that are operated through state rural water associations.” How can you help? Contact your members of congress and tell them you appreciate receiving the highest quality drinking water from the trained professionals at your water system and send them a copy of this article. More information can be seen on the National Rural Water website: www.nrwa.org . Get involved for water! Contact information for Lawrence County’s Congressman, Charlie Wilson, is on the web at http://charliewilson.house.gov. Ohio Senator’s online offices are at : http://brown.senate.gov and http://voinovich.senate.gov/public/index.cfm Regina Hoffman Hecla Water Association, Inc. Ironton, Ohio USDA Rural Development Funds $5.9 Million Village Water Project COLUMBUS, OHIO, Apr. 18, 2007 – Randall Hunt, state director for USDA Rural Development announced today approval of a $4.9 million financing package to the Village of Russia to fund construction of a new water system. The village is located in Shelby, Ohio. “Making sure Ohio’s rural communities have access to safe, clean water can be a costly undertaking because of location logistics,” said Hunt. “Rural Development’s Water and Waste Disposal Program provides additional financing options to help reduce the expense of these projects, making them more affordable.” Total cost of the project is $5,932,000. The Village of Russia contributed $1 million to the financing package. The funds will be used to construct a new water system that will include a water treatment plant, well field, elevated storage tank and water lines. The new system will provide service to 264 users in the village. USDA Rural Development's mission is to deliver programs in a way that will support increasing economic opportunity and improve the quality of life of rural residents. Rural Development provides equity and technical assistance to finance and foster growth in homeownership, business development, and critical community and technology infrastructure. Further information on rural programs is available by calling 614-255-2400, visiting a local USDA Rural Development office or by viewing USDA's web site at http://www.rurdev.usda.gov. Ohio Rural Water Needs Your Help!!! Dear Member: Ohio Rural Water Association is calling on your for your help. We are asking you to contact your congressman/congresswoman and ask them to sign the "Dear Collegue" letter for Ohio Rural Water Association. This letter can be found in the download section of our website here. Copies of this letter are being hand delivered to the DC offices this week. Through our funding, Ohio Rural Water is able to provide Training and Technical Assistance for small water and wastewater systems throughout the state. You can download an excel spreadsheet listing all of the congressmen/women for Ohio here. We are doing all we can in Washington, but Congress wants to hear from you, the people which they represent. you have no idea how much of a difference you can make with just a simple phone call. If you would rather email your representative you can do so using the addresses in the spreadsheet. Further information about your Congressperson in available at www.house.gov. We thank you for your support in the past, present and future. Sincerely, Ohio Rural Water Association USDA Rural Development Funds Local Village Water Project COLUMBUS, OHIO, April 17, 2007 – Randall Hunt, state director for USDA Rural Development announced today approval of a $543,000 financing package to the Village of DeGraff to fund construction that will increase the capacity of their water system. The village is located in Logan County, Ohio. “Although Ohio’s rural communities are smaller, fulfilling their basic needs is no less important,” said Hunt. “Rural Development’s Water and Waste Disposal Program helps ensure Ohioans have access to clean, safe water as a critical quality of life necessity.” Total cost of the project is $885,000. The Ohio Public Works Commission contributed $292,000, while the Village of DeGraff added $20,000 to the financing package. The funds will be used to construct a new 250,000 gallon water storage tower and a waterline from the tower to Main Street. The village’s water system serves 557 users in the Village of DeGraff and the surrounding area. USDA Rural Development's mission is to deliver programs in a way that will support increasing economic opportunity and improve the quality of life of rural residents. Rural Development provides equity and technical assistance to finance and foster growth in homeownership, business development, and critical community and technology infrastructure. Further information on rural programs is available by calling 614-255-2400, visiting a local USDA Rural Development office or by viewing USDA's web site at http://www.rurdev.usda.gov. Attention 2007 Golf Outing Participants The Association would like to offer a sincere thanks to the sponsors of the 2007 golf outing for a great outing at a wonderful location. Associate members this is a great opportunity to take you clients out to an event they will remember for a long time. Please make plans to attend next year at the same location and bring a friend. We need to get our number of participants up to reserve the date at this facility. Again thanks to our Hole Sponsors' Participants That Brought Drawing Gifts, Northern Ohio Rural Water, Del-CO Water, and Jen Emerick of GGC Engineering Water In the News Well... It's not news. Its just a video. But what a video it is... Ever have a storm sewer overflow? Like this one in Minnesota? And just how heavy do you think that "manhole" cover is? USDA Rural Development Finances Million Dollar Facility for Highland County Water COLUMBUS, OHIO, Apr. 12, 2007 – Randall Hunt, state director for USDA Rural Development and Tom Boyle, president of Highland County Water Company joined today to officially open Highland’s new multi-service office building. The facility was financed by Rural Development’s Community Facilities Program. “Today marks the realization of a portion of Highland County Water Company’s vision and sets the stage for improved service delivery,” said Hunt. “Rural Development administers approximately 40 programs designed to assist communities with planning and financing their development needs. Projects like these help to demonstrate Rural Development’s ability to help build and sustain communities.” Highland Water needed to consolidate operations as part of their plan to comprehensively improve operating efficiency and customer response. Working with Rural Development, a $750,000 funding package was formulated that financed the construction of the new 8,800 sq. ft. facility. The new building will include a Board Room that will be available for public use. It will also incorporate a meter department that will be housed, along with other functions, in the 4,725 sq. ft. basement. Rural Development, through its programs, has worked with community leaders of Highland County to invest more than $11 million through various programs since Fiscal Year 2001. These funds have helped Ohioans become homeowners, foster and strengthen businesses, and bring clean, safe water to communities throughout the state. "Working with Rural Development was the key to getting this project from a vision to an actual facility; they never gave up on us and worked tirelessly until they found a way to help us," said Larry Cockrell, Highland County Water Company general manager. "We were really being pinched for space and had absolutely outgrown our previous building. Now we've got this wonderful new facility and it's certainly going to help us provide better service to our loyal customers." USDA Rural Development's mission is to deliver programs in a way that will support increasing economic opportunity and improve the quality of life of rural residents. Rural Development provides equity and technical assistance to finance and foster growth in home ownership, business development, and critical community and technology infrastructure. Further information on rural programs is available by calling 614-255-2400, visiting a local USDA Rural Development office or by viewing USDA's web site at http://www.rurdev.usda.gov. Tom Boyle (center with scissors), president of Highland County Water Company, Inc., cuts the ribbon to officially open the new $1 million dollar, 8,800 sq. ft. facility financed by USDA Rural Development. Boyle is joined by Rural Development State Director Randy Hunt, Highland County Board members and staff, legislative and civic leaders. 2007 ORWA Operator Conference *Mr. Royal Jones of WASTE TEC, INC. presents $1000.00 to lucky drawing winner* The prize was $1000 cash from Mr. Royal Jones of WASTE TEC, INC. a manufacturer of nationally recognized automatic pit evacuators. We would like to thank Mr. Jones and his company for their generosity and congratulate Bill on his good fortune. For more information on Waste Tec products contact: Royal Jones P.O.Box 4196 Ormond Beach FL 32176 Phone 386-677-8300 Fax 386-677-0306 Email- jones@597@bellsouth.net Or visit their website at: Rural Development Finances Village’s Emergency Generator COLUMBUS, OHIO, April 9, 2007 – Randall Hunt, state director for USDA Rural Development announced today approval of a $35,000 Community Facilities program financing package to the Village of Moscow in Clermont, Ohio. The village will use the funding to purchase an emergency generator for their Community Center. “Rural Development’s Community Facilities program is an important financing tool to assist rural community leaders dealing with budgetary limitations,” said Hunt. “We structured financing packages totaling more than $12.8 million through this program last year. That funding helped complete many locally planned projects in Ohio’s rural communities.” The Community Facilities Program uses grants and loans to help communities develop essential facilities for public use. These facilities include schools, libraries, childcare, hospitals, medical clinics, assisted living facilities, fire and rescue stations, police stations, community centers, public buildings and transportation. USDA Rural Development's mission is to deliver programs in a way that will support increasing economic opportunity and improve the quality of life of rural residents. Rural Development provides equity and technical assistance to finance and foster growth in homeownership, business development, and critical community and technology infrastructure. Further information on rural programs is available by calling 614-255-2400, visiting a local USDA Rural Development office or by viewing USDA's web site at http://www.rurdev.usda.gov. Water In the News Water and Wastewater Professionals will find the point of this story to be more than obvious... pipes freeze in winter. But when dealing with the public, it might be handy to have a horror story ready to help scare them into good habits. Lesson learned: If you own vacant property, check the pipes in wintertime. PA church hit with $2 million water bill A line broke in a building that the church in Ford City, near Pittsburgh, owns but doesn't use. FORD CITY, Pa. - A church in Western Pennsylvania might need help from above for this one. Ford City Council agreed last week to send the Second Baptist Church a big water bill. (more...) USDA Rural Development Funds Fredericktown Improvements COLUMBUS, OHIO, Mar. 8, 2007 – Randall Hunt, state director for USDA Rural Development announced approval of a $2,400 Community Facilities grant to the Village of Fredericktown in Knox County, Ohio. The village will use the funding to purchase police cameras for their cruisers and upgrades to the library. “We’re encouraged that Ohio community leaders are becoming more aware of our programs that fund safety initiatives,” said Hunt. “We committed to strengthening our local partnership role in helping make rural Ohio safer.” The Community Facilities Program uses grants and loans to help communities develop essential facilities for public use. These facilities include schools, libraries, childcare, hospitals, medical clinics, assisted living facilities, fire and rescue stations, police stations, community centers, public buildings and transportation. USDA Rural Development's mission is to deliver programs in a way that will support increasing economic opportunity and improve the quality of life of rural residents. Rural Development provides equity and technical assistance to finance and foster growth in homeownership, business development, and critical community and technology infrastructure. Further information on rural programs is available by calling 614-255-2400, visiting a local USDA Rural Development office or by viewing USDA's web site at http://www.rurdev.usda.gov. Legislative Page Updated Information and analysis on HB 62, HB 304, HB 103, & SB 83. Go to our Legislative Update page for all the latest info. RCAP Spring 2007 Training Brochure RCAP has published their Spring 2007 Training Catalog. Click here to download a PDF, or you can visit our Links page. All file downloads are on the right. Water In the News Water and Wastewater Professionals face similar problems no matter where they may be. Factors like , old equipment / infrastructure, and using resources efficiently create stress for just about everybody involved in the Industry. Broward County, FL is going to tackle their increasing potable water needs in a most efficient manner... Broward cities test ways to recycle sewage into usable -- even drinkable -- water Broward's growing has some utility experts looking to an unorthodox source for drinking water: recycled sewage. In the coming months, Sunrise and Plantation will become the first Broward County cities to test new equipment designed to recycle wastewater (more...) Tate Monroe Receives Finance Package for New Water Treatment Plant COLUMBUS, OHIO, Feb. 20, 2007 – Randall Hunt, state director for USDA Rural Development announced approval of a $12,577,000 financing package to fund the construction of a new water treatment plant in Clermont, Ohio. The recipient of the loan is the Tate Monroe Water Association, Inc. “This financial package is certainly one of our larger community investments this year,” said Hunt. “We’ve worked with the Tate Monroe Water Association before and are delighted to be able to help Clermont County residents improve the quality and supply of their drinking water.” Total cost of the project is $19,436,000. The funds will be used for the construction of a new 2 million-gallon-a-day (mgd) water treatment plant that can be expanded to 6 mgd as demand requires. The water system serves approximately 8,974 customers throughout Clermont County. Clermont County is located in Ohio’s Appalachian region where Rural Development targets a significant portion of its funding. “Additional Appalachia water projects recently funded include $22 million to Jackson Water Company in Jackson County, $18.2 million to Le-Ax Water District in Hocking County and $20 million to the Buckeye Water District in Columbiana County,” said Hunt. “These four projects total $77.7 million, help provide clean, safe water for more than 25,000 Appalachian families and keeps us focused on our mission of delivering essential services to rural Americans.” USDA Rural Development's mission is to deliver programs in a way that will support increasing economic opportunity and improve the quality of life of rural residents. Rural Development provides equity and technical assistance to finance and foster growth in homeownership, business development, and critical community and technology infrastructure. Further information on rural programs is available by calling 614-255-2400, visiting a local USDA Rural Development office or by viewing USDA's web site at http://www.rurdev.usda.gov. "Hot Jobs" Protect the Environment, by Kris R. Cash, APR National Rural Water Association - Most people like to say they are concerned about the environment and a prospering planet. You know, a place where our water is safe, clean and affordable, a planet where people are responsible and not polluting our streams, rivers and oceans. But how many people are actually protecting the planet through their work? - more Water In The News This may seem obvious to those in the industry, but as microbiologist Timothy Ford says in this article "If you clean up water and then put it into a dirty pipe, there's not much point..." Old, aging, rusty and deteriorating pipes are something every community needs to think about, not just the big cities. ABC News shows us how this will begin to impact all of us as time goes on... Biggest threat to U.S. drinking water? Rust From an attack by militants to a decline in snow melt caused by global warming, public fears about the water supply have heightened in the United States. So who would have thought the top worry among water experts turns out to be rusty pipes? (more at ABC News.com) Water In The News As we wander through the intarwebs, sometimes we come across stories about our industry. Some of these may have valuable information, some might help illustrate common issues, and some may just be simply funny or interesting. We bring you these stories in the hopes you find them helpful and / or informative. Our first article comes from Houston, and tells a story of meters and customers that many may be familiar with... Faulty water meter could cost taxpayers A water fight between a homeowner and the City of Houston could have you double-checking your bill. One man got a water bill for more than $1,400... (more at KHOU.com) NEW: Items for the Water Professional In order to help our members and others in the Water industry, ORWA is happy to bring you some items that may assist you during your work day. We hope to add more equipment over time, and hope you find these helpful. Click Here for our equipment page. Groundwater Rule The groundwater rule has been released by EPA. The details are available on www.ruralwater.org . The rule is complicated but flexible. We are in the process of developing some information items you may wish to use in training sessions. Strickland Supports Rural Water At a meeting of the Ohio Rural Water Association in January, a question was raised regarding contacting a member of the US Congress from Ohio to write a support letter for the funding which provides on-site technical assistance and training to small and rural water systems. Several of the members in attendance agreed Ted Strickland, 6th District, was the obvious choice due to his past support of rural water issues... (pics & story here)

...improving the quality of life in rural Ohio

Why Join ORWA?
Click Here to see our Member Brochure!!

Please Note: A number of our documents require Acrobat Reader (PDF). Download here if you do not have it installed.

Greetings,
I would like to welcome you to our Web Site.
Since 1976, ORWA has provided free on site technical assistance to rural communities with water and wastewater systems.
Today, we continue to expand the base of benefits we provide to our members. Our system members provide water and/or wastewater services to approximately 1.6 million Ohioans.
        Sincerely,
   Kevin Strang - ORWA Executive Director

Contact Info
55 Whites Rd
Zanesville, OH 43701
ph: 740-455-3911
fax: 740-455-3899
tollfree: 800-589-7985
email: ORWA@Ohiowater.org

Pictures from the 2006 National Conference

5th Congressional District Representative Paul Gillmore Dies

Paul Gilmor was found dead in his apartment of an apparent heart attack this morning. Representative Gillmor was a strong, long-time supporter of Rural Water, and will be missed. Click Here for more information.

2007 ORWA Expo - Tentative Agenda

Tues Oct 23, Wed Oct 23, 2007 - Roberts Center, Wilmington Ohio

Click Image for Agenda

Thanks to Rural Lorain County for hosting a great Quarterly Meeting !

With over 103 registrants the recent Summer Quarterly meeting at Put-In-Bay made this event one of the best attended quarterly meetings in recent memory.

The Association would like to offer a most sincere round of thanks to the Board and Staff of Rural Lorain for hosting this event. The combination of one of Ohio's premier tourists destinations, great presentations and wonderful local food made for a memorable event. We also generated $ 585.00 for Water Pac!

Again, thank you to all of those that worked to make this meeting a success.

Rural Development’s $9 Million Funding Ensures Butler’s Sewer Services Meet Growing Demands

COLUMBUS, OHIO, Aug. 30, 2007 – Randall Hunt, state director for USDA Rural Development announced today approval of a $9,070,000 financing package to Butler County, Ohio. The funding is from Rural Development’s Water and Waste Disposal Loan and Grant Program and will be used to increase the county’s sewage handling capacity.

“As s in rural communities continue to increase, so does their need for expanded water and sewer services,” said Hunt. “Improving environmental safety conditions and overall quality of life for Ohio’s rural residents are primary focuses of our Water and Waste Program.

Funding will be used to construct approximately seven miles of a gravity sewer collection system and pump station to the unincorporated areas of Williamsdale and Overpeck in St. Clair Township. The sewage treatment will be provided by the New Miami wastewater treatment plant.

The Water and Waste Disposal Loan and Grant Program makes direct loans and grants to build or improve essential public use facilities such as water and sewer facilities, storm sewers and solid waste facilities.

USDA Rural Development's mission is to deliver programs in a way that will support increasing economic opportunity and improve the quality of life of rural residents. Rural Development provides equity and technical assistance to finance and foster growth in homeownership, business development, and critical community and technology infrastructure.

Further information on rural programs is available by calling 614-255-2400, visiting a local USDA Rural Development office or by viewing USDA Rural Development’s web site at http://www.rurdev.usda.gov.

Rural communities can get USDA help in reducing high energy costs

Rural communities nationwide will have access to $21.9 million to help cope with high energy costs. Communities must apply before Oct. 1 for the grants, which are administered by the United States Department of Agriculture.

"These grants will help rural residents and businesses upgrade energy infrastructure and make other energy efficiency improvements," said U.S. Agriculture Secretary Mike Johanns. "The rising cost of energy can challenge economic growth and opportunity. These grants are another example of how USDA works to help rural communities overcome economic obstacles and create opportunity."

The funds can be used to acquire, construct, extend, upgrade or otherwise improve energy generation, transmission or distribution facilities serving communities in which the average residential cost for home energy exceeds 275 percent of the national average.

Grants are available to individuals, businesses, non-profit organization, states, local governments and federally recognized Indian tribes. Grants may not be used to pay utility bills or purchase fuel and may not be used for the sole benefit of the applicant.

The application guide for this grant can be found at the USDA website or at Grants.gov under the Code of Domestic Federal Assistance Number 10.859

The following is another USDA grant program (through the Rural Housing Service) for communities and small businesses in rural areas to implement or promote energy efficiency open for applications through Sept. 6.

One of the criteria, worth 20 of the 100 total points, is:

*"6. Technical assistance for the development of Renewable Energy Systems and Energy Efficiency Improvements--20 Points. The applicant must demonstrate how they will improve the recipients' capacity to carry out activities related to the development of renewable energy systems and energy efficiency improvements for housing, community facilities, or community and economic development."

If you have any questions regarding information contained in this news release or experience any problems accessing the information provided, please contact us!

Thanks to Rural Lorain County for hosting a great Quarterly Meeting !

With over 103 registrants the recent Summer Quarterly meeting at Put-In-Bay made this event one of the best attended quarterly meetings in recent memory.

The Association would like to offer a most sincere round of thanks to the Board and Staff of Rural Lorain for hosting this event. The combination of one of Ohio's premier tourists destinations, great presentations and wonderful local food made for a memorable event. We also generated $ 585.00 for Water Pac!

Again thank you to all of those that worked to make this meeting a success.

2008 Membership Renewals

Yes it is that time of year again when we start to send out our membership renewals. Do not forget to fill out all of the contact information when you receive your membership package. We need that information particularly the legislative information to effectively communicate with our representatives in Washington.

Also in addition to our traditional benefits of Workman's Comp discount programs. Exhibitions and training events we will soon be offering over 16 courses that can be taken on line. That's right from the comfort of you office, at home or any place your have time and access to the net you can get the contact hours you or your staff need!!

Rural Development Awards $1.3 Million to Upgrade Butler County’s Servicing Capacity

COLUMBUS, OHIO, Aug. 21, 2007 – Randall Hunt, state director for USDA Rural Development announced today approval of a $1,300,000 financing package to Butler County, Ohio. The funding is from Rural Development’s Community Facility Loan and Grant Program and will be used to purchase new vehicles and equipment to better serve Butler County residents.

“Rural communities have a consistent need to upgrade and maintain equipment in order to provide essential services to their residents,” said Hunt. “Our Community Facility Program provides another tool for community leaders to meet the growing needs of its citizenry.”

The Community Facility Program uses grants and loans to help communities develop essential facilities for public use. These facilities include libraries, childcare, hospitals, medical clinics, assisted living facilities, fire and rescue stations, police stations, community centers, public buildings and transportation.

Rural Development Awards $64,000 in Funding for Waste Management Program

COLUMBUS, OHIO, Aug. 17, 2007 – Randall Hunt, state director for USDA Rural Development announced today approval of a $64,500 grant to Mahoning County Solid Waste Management District in Mahoning County, Ohio. The funding comes from Rural Development’s Solid Waste Management Grant Program.

“Rural Development’s Solid Waste Management Program provides critical funding to assist small rural communities develop and implement local waste management initiatives,” said Hunt. “Educational efforts help residents better understand how they can help improve the overall health and appearance of their communities.”

Mahoning County Solids Waste Management District’s will use the funding to help finance its Rural Recycling Education and Awareness Program (REAP). REAP promotes and assists the recycling efforts throughout the rural areas of Mahoning County. Mahoning County’s Solid Waste Management District contributed $108,587 towards the project, bringing the total project costs to $173,087.

Attention Associate Members
We need your input !!! The association is in the process of restructuring the annual Exposition. We have a number of suggestions that will help us better serve our Associate members. To that end if you would like to participate in the following survey we encourage you to take this opportunity to have your opinion heard! Click Here for Survey

We are also planning more events for Members and their Spouses on the Monday before the Conference "starts". Please help us determine the events you will enjoy best. Click Here for Survey.

Ohio BWC Safety & Health Courses Listed

Dozens of of training courses are available through BWC's Division of Safety & Hygiene. These courses are offered at our training center in Pickerington at the Ohio Center for Occupational Safety and Health (OCOSH) and at branch sites and BWC service offices across the state, including Toledo, Cincinnati, Canton, Cambridge, Portsmouth, Youngstown and Cleveland. Employers may enroll any number of employees at no additional cost.

Click Here for more info.

Upcoming Bureau of Workman's Comp University
The Ohio Bureau of Workers' Compensation (BWC) wants to help you get the information you need to stabilize your costs and care for your most valuable asset - your employees.

At Workers’ Compensation University (WCU) you will get this information at no cost to you. (Click Here for details)

House Bill 289 Introduced
To amend sections 931.02, 931.03, 931.04, 931.99, and 5709.28 of the Revised Code to make changes to the law governing agricultural security areas.

Section 1. That sections 931.02, 931.03, 931.04, 931.99, and 5709.28 of the Revised Code be amended to read as follows... Click here for the entire Bill.

Water In The News
Much has been said on the benefits of good, clean water. How you get that water can affect more than just your thirst... Tap water or bottled water? The myth of the bottle doesn't hold water when you begin to take more than marketing into consideration...

"...Ounce for ounce, it costs more than gasoline, even at today's high gasoline prices; depending on the brand, it costs 250 to 10,000 times more than tap water. Globally, bottled water is now a $46 billion industry. Why has it become so popular?"

" ...Admittedly, both kinds of water suffer from occasional contamination problems, but tap water is more stringently monitored and tightly regulated than bottled water..." (click here for full article)

Wastewater In The News
You might have heard this story, but its an amazing tale of quick-thinking heroism by some unlikely first-responders... (click here for full story)

USDA Rural Development Finances $6.5 Million Construction of New Tuscarawas Water System

COLUMBUS, OHIO, July 6, 2007 – Randall Hunt, state director for USDA Rural Development announced today approval of a $6,574,000 financing package to construct a new water distribution system for Tuscarawas County, Ohio. The funding comes from Rural Development’s Water and Waste Disposal Loan and Grant Program.

“Tuscarawas County officials have continually gained more experience with using our programs,” said Hunt. “Their ability to plan for present and future community needs has provided positive returns to county residents. Rural Development is proud to be a partner in these kinds of critical local infrastructure projects.”

The funding will be used for the construction of a water distribution system which will include a booster station and a 150,000 gallon storage tank. The project will interconnect the subsystems of Wilkshire Hills and Mineral City and provide an emergency connection to the Village of Magnolia. The project will provide service to 160 homes in the Sandyville area.

Total funding for the project is $7,214,000 and includes a $4,930,000 loan and a $1,644,000 grant from Rural Development. The Ohio Public Works Commission contributed $400,000 while Tuscarawas residents added $240,000 through tap fees.

USDA Rural Development's mission is to deliver programs in a way that will support increasing economic opportunity and improve the quality of life of rural residents. Rural Development provides equity and technical assistance to finance and foster growth in home ownership, business development, and critical community and technology infrastructure.

Legislative Page Updated
Click Here to see what Bills are of interest to us as Water / Wastewater Professionals.

Deadline for Ohio EPA non-sequential operator examination is July 1, 2007

Click Here for Info

EPA DIRECTOR GRANTED PERMIT REVISION AUTHORITY,
HOME SEWAGE RULES RESCINDED IN LATEST VERSION OF BIENNIUM BUDGET

A multi-faceted amendment to the $52.4 billion biennium budget bill won support in the Senate Tuesday morning. Changes to the bill, slated for a full chamber vote Wednesday, include the scrapping of controversial home sewage system regulations and a provision that allows the EPA director to alter certain permits under review by the Environmental Review Appeals Commission.

More details in today’s Gongwer News Service Ohio Report.

New BWC Course Listings!

Be sure to contact the Division of Safety & Hygiene regarding their newest courses for FY08, which include:

Emergency Preparedness Planning
Employee Safety for Staffing Companies and PEOs
Public Employers: Injury, Illness and Needle-stick Recordkeeping
Restaurant and Food Service Safety
Communicating Safety to your Spanish Speaking Workforce

All classes are free. For more information or to enroll, visit www.bwclearningcenter.com or call 1-800-OHIOBWC and press 2, then 2 and 2 again.

ORWA 2007 Summer Quarterly Flyer Posted
Click Here for PDF
Errata: PLEASE NOTE: The Ferry does NOT leave at 7:45AM...
The first ferry is at 8:45AM.
The start of the meeting will be delayed slightly to allow for the later arrival.

New Technology Can Be Retrofitted to Protect Hydrants from Tampering
We are concerned with safety. Safety for our employees, safety for our equipment, and most importantly - the safety of those who consume our water. A recent invention being tested in Georgia can help protect our distribution system by securing fire hydrants. Click here for more... (video)

Ohio BWC Saftey & Health Division Classes
Dozens of of training courses are available through BWC's Division of Safety & Hygiene. These courses are offered at our training center in Pickerington at the Ohio Center for Occupational Safety and Health (OCOSH) and at branch sites and BWC service offices across the state, including Toledo, Cincinnati, Canton, Cambridge, Portsmouth, Youngstown and Cleveland. Employers may enroll any number of employees at no additional cost.

To enroll or learn more about the classroom available July - September 2007, visit the BWC Learning Center at
bwclearningcenter.com.

Click here for (PDF) information.

Attention 2007 Expo Exhibitors
The Association would like to thank all of our associate members that participated in our annual Conference and Expo. We are in the planning stages of some significant changes for next year. First we plan to eliminate the $100 per hour drawing it is no longer serving the intended purpose.

We are planning to replace it with a reception in the expo hall (paid for by the association) starting at five when typically the expo in scheduled to end and lasting until the start of the social events at 7:00pm.

We can then generate post card style invitations that you or your representatives can give clients and potential clients to this event and giving them a complimentary pass to our annual social events. This way we hope to generate more foot traffic. If you would like to offer any additional suggestions please email us by clicking here. At the closing of the Expo on Wednesday we will have an ceremony with awards to the exhibitors and prize drawings.

DO YOU APPRECIATE CLEAN, SAFE DRINKING WATER?

WATER WEEK IS MAY 6 – 12

Drinking water providers across the nation are contacting their representatives and senators in our nation’s congress to inform them about the present situation rural water programs are facing. When you turn on your faucet, do you think of the hard working trained professionals at your local drinking water provider? If you appreciate the services and dedication provided by them, send them a note of appreciation and read on to find out how you can get involved.

In the late 1970s, programs were created to provide free technical assistance to the small and rural water systems which were beginning to pop up across the country through funding provided by the Farmers Home Administration ( now Rural Development), under the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Two of the programs which were created to provide help are being slashed from state associations leaving some small and rural water systems without free technical assistance. The programs consist of training and wellhead/source water protection assistance. These two programs are very important to many of the water systems in Lawrence County Ohio.

Since the new Ohio EPA water operator license renewal requirements, it has become necessary for the water operators of Lawrence County to find as much free training as possible to keep their state issued license. A class III or IV water operator is responsible for acquiring 24 training hours in a two year period at an average cost of $400, not including traveling expenses or time away from work. If an operator is in charge of both the water and wastewater operations, double the cost. The Ohio Rural Water training program was created to provide the opportunity for operators to receive training at no charge, often times the training is on site.

Groundwater systems, such as; Hecla Water, South Point Water and Coal Grove Water; are required by EPA to implement a wellhead protection plan for protection of the water source. The state rural water association wellhead protection/ source protection programs will assist in creating and upgrading protection plans, at no charge to the small and rural water systems. Working with trained technicians from the state rural water association, water systems can set a complete plan into action for protecting their water source. Before this program was provided by state rural water associations, costly engineering advice was all that was available to assist a water system in completing their protection plan.

For many years, rural water programs were funded with “earmarked” funds which were included in the EPA funds provided by congress. “Earmarked” funds are under a stipulation that the receiving agency hold the money for the programs named. However, this year, EPA was given the funds without the stipulation they be used for training and wellhead/ source water protection efforts through state rural water associations. The current EPA work plan essentially discontinues these programs provided by each state water association.

Rural Water and EPA Office of Water have a very cooperative working relationship. The funding decisions came from the highest political levels of EPA, not the local EPA people who work with water systems. What is rural water’s recourse? Asking members of congress to sign “the Dear Colleague letter in support of rural water environmental initiatives that are operated through state rural water associations.” How can you help? Contact your members of congress and tell them you appreciate receiving the highest quality drinking water from the trained professionals at your water system and send them a copy of this article. More information can be seen on the National Rural Water website: www.nrwa.org . Get involved for water!

Contact information for Lawrence County’s Congressman, Charlie Wilson, is on the web at http://charliewilson.house.gov. Ohio Senator’s online offices are at : http://brown.senate.gov and http://voinovich.senate.gov/public/index.cfm

Regina Hoffman

Hecla Water Association, Inc.

Ironton, Ohio

USDA Rural Development Funds $5.9 Million Village Water Project

COLUMBUS, OHIO, Apr. 18, 2007 – Randall Hunt, state director for USDA Rural Development announced today approval of a $4.9 million financing package to the Village of Russia to fund construction of a new water system. The village is located in Shelby, Ohio.

“Making sure Ohio’s rural communities have access to safe, clean water can be a costly undertaking because of location logistics,” said Hunt. “Rural Development’s Water and Waste Disposal Program provides additional financing options to help reduce the expense of these projects, making them more affordable.”

Total cost of the project is $5,932,000. The Village of Russia contributed $1 million to the financing package. The funds will be used to construct a new water system that will include a water treatment plant, well field, elevated storage tank and water lines. The new system will provide service to 264 users in the village.

Further information on rural programs is available by calling 614-255-2400, visiting a local USDA Rural Development office or by viewing USDA's web site at http://www.rurdev.usda.gov.

Ohio Rural Water Needs Your Help!!!

Dear Member:

Ohio Rural Water Association is calling on your for your help. We are asking you to contact your congressman/congresswoman and ask them to sign the "Dear Collegue" letter for Ohio Rural Water Association. This letter can be found in the download section of our website here. Copies of this letter are being hand delivered to the DC offices this week. Through our funding, Ohio Rural Water is able to provide Training and Technical Assistance for small water and wastewater systems throughout the state. You can download an excel spreadsheet listing all of the congressmen/women for Ohio here.

We are doing all we can in Washington, but Congress wants to hear from you, the people which they represent. you have no idea how much of a difference you can make with just a simple phone call. If you would rather email your representative you can do so using the addresses in the spreadsheet. Further information about your Congressperson in available at www.house.gov.

We thank you for your support in the past, present and future.

Sincerely,

Ohio Rural Water Association

USDA Rural Development Funds Local Village Water Project

COLUMBUS, OHIO, April 17, 2007 – Randall Hunt, state director for USDA Rural Development announced today approval of a $543,000 financing package to the Village of DeGraff to fund construction that will increase the capacity of their water system. The village is located in Logan County, Ohio.

“Although Ohio’s rural communities are smaller, fulfilling their basic needs is no less important,” said Hunt. “Rural Development’s Water and Waste Disposal Program helps ensure Ohioans have access to clean, safe water as a critical quality of life necessity.”

Total cost of the project is $885,000. The Ohio Public Works Commission contributed $292,000, while the Village of DeGraff added $20,000 to the financing package. The funds will be used to construct a new 250,000 gallon water storage tower and a waterline from the tower to Main Street. The village’s water system serves 557 users in the Village of DeGraff and the surrounding area.

Further information on rural programs is available by calling 614-255-2400, visiting a local USDA Rural Development office or by viewing USDA's web site at http://www.rurdev.usda.gov.

Attention 2007 Golf Outing Participants

The Association would like to offer a sincere thanks to the sponsors of the 2007 golf outing for a great outing at a wonderful location.

Associate members this is a great opportunity to take you clients out to an event they will remember for a long time. Please make plans to attend next year at the same location and bring a friend. We need to get our number of participants up to reserve the date at this facility.

Again thanks to our Hole Sponsors' Participants That Brought Drawing Gifts, Northern Ohio Rural Water, Del-CO Water, and Jen Emerick of GGC Engineering

Water In the News

Well... It's not news. Its just a video. But what a video it is... Ever have a storm sewer overflow? Like this one in Minnesota? And just how heavy do you think that "manhole" cover is?

USDA Rural Development Finances Million Dollar Facility for Highland County Water

COLUMBUS, OHIO, Apr. 12, 2007 – Randall Hunt, state director for USDA Rural Development and Tom Boyle, president of Highland
County Water Company joined today to officially open Highland’s new multi-service office building. The facility was financed by Rural Development’s Community Facilities Program.

“Today marks the realization of a portion of Highland County Water Company’s vision and sets the stage for improved service delivery,” said Hunt. “Rural Development administers approximately 40 programs designed to assist communities with planning and financing their development needs. Projects like these help to demonstrate Rural Development’s ability to help build and sustain communities.”

Highland Water needed to consolidate operations as part of their plan to comprehensively improve operating efficiency and customer response. Working with Rural Development, a $750,000 funding package was formulated that financed the construction of the new 8,800 sq. ft. facility. The new building will include a Board Room that will be available for public use. It will also incorporate a meter department that will be housed, along with other functions, in the 4,725 sq. ft. basement.

Rural Development, through its programs, has worked with community leaders of Highland County to invest more than $11 million through various programs since Fiscal Year 2001. These funds have helped Ohioans become homeowners, foster and strengthen businesses, and bring clean, safe water to communities throughout the state.

"Working with Rural Development was the key to getting this project from a vision to an actual facility; they never gave up on us and worked tirelessly until they found a way to help us," said Larry Cockrell, Highland County Water Company general manager. "We were really being pinched for space and had absolutely outgrown our previous building. Now we've got this wonderful new facility and it's certainly going to help us provide better service to our loyal customers."

USDA Rural Development's mission is to deliver programs in a way that will support increasing economic opportunity and improve the quality of life of rural residents. Rural Development provides equity and technical assistance to finance and foster growth in home ownership, business development, and critical community and technology infrastructure.

Further information on rural programs is available by calling 614-255-2400, visiting a local USDA Rural Development office or by viewing USDA's web site at http://www.rurdev.usda.gov.

Tom Boyle (center with scissors), president of Highland County Water Company, Inc., cuts the ribbon to officially open the new $1 million dollar, 8,800 sq. ft. facility financed by USDA Rural Development. Boyle is joined by Rural Development State Director Randy Hunt, Highland County Board members and staff, legislative and civic leaders.

2007 ORWA Operator Conference

Mr. Royal Jones of WASTE TEC, INC. presents $1000.00 to lucky drawing winner

The prize was $1000 cash from Mr. Royal Jones of WASTE TEC, INC. a manufacturer of nationally recognized automatic pit evacuators.

We would like to thank Mr. Jones and his company for their generosity and congratulate Bill on his good fortune.

For more information on Waste

Tec products contact:

Royal Jones

P.O.Box 4196

Ormond Beach FL 32176

Phone 386-677-8300

Fax 386-677-0306

Email- jones@597@bellsouth.net

Or visit their website at:

Rural Development Finances Village’s Emergency Generator

COLUMBUS, OHIO, April 9, 2007 – Randall Hunt, state director for USDA Rural Development announced today approval of a $35,000 Community Facilities program financing package to the Village of Moscow in Clermont, Ohio. The village will use the funding to purchase an emergency generator for their Community Center.

“Rural Development’s Community Facilities program is an important financing tool to assist rural community leaders dealing with budgetary limitations,” said Hunt. “We structured financing packages totaling more than $12.8 million through this program last year. That funding helped complete many locally planned projects in Ohio’s rural communities.”

The Community Facilities Program uses grants and loans to help communities develop essential facilities for public use. These facilities include schools, libraries, childcare, hospitals, medical clinics, assisted living facilities, fire and rescue stations, police stations, community centers, public buildings and transportation.

Further information on rural programs is available by calling 614-255-2400, visiting a local USDA Rural Development office or by viewing USDA's web site at http://www.rurdev.usda.gov.

Water In the News
Water and Wastewater Professionals will find the point of this story to be more than obvious... pipes freeze in winter. But when dealing with the public, it might be handy to have a horror story ready to help scare them into good habits. Lesson learned: If you own vacant property, check the pipes in wintertime.

PA church hit with $2 million water bill
A line broke in a building that the church in Ford City, near Pittsburgh, owns but doesn't use.
FORD CITY, Pa. - A church in Western Pennsylvania might need help from above for this one. Ford City Council agreed last week to send the Second Baptist Church a big water bill. (more...)

USDA Rural Development Funds Fredericktown Improvements

COLUMBUS, OHIO, Mar. 8, 2007 – Randall Hunt, state director for USDA Rural Development announced approval of a $2,400 Community Facilities grant to the Village of Fredericktown in Knox County, Ohio. The village will use the funding to purchase police cameras for their cruisers and upgrades to the library.

“We’re encouraged that Ohio community leaders are becoming more aware of our programs that fund safety initiatives,” said Hunt. “We committed to strengthening our local partnership role in helping make rural Ohio safer.”

Further information on rural programs is available by calling 614-255-2400, visiting a local USDA Rural Development office or by viewing USDA's web site at http://www.rurdev.usda.gov.

Legislative Page Updated
Information and analysis on HB 62, HB 304, HB 103, & SB 83. Go to our Legislative Update page for all the latest info.

RCAP Spring 2007 Training Brochure

RCAP has published their Spring 2007 Training Catalog. Click here to download a PDF, or you can visit our Links page. All file downloads are on the right.

Water In the News
Water and Wastewater Professionals face similar problems no matter where they may be. Factors like , old equipment / infrastructure, and using resources efficiently create stress for just about everybody involved in the Industry. Broward County, FL is going to tackle their increasing potable water needs in a most efficient manner...

Broward cities test ways to recycle sewage into usable -- even drinkable -- water

Broward's growing has some utility experts looking to an unorthodox source for drinking water: recycled sewage.

In the coming months, Sunrise and Plantation will become the first Broward County cities to test new equipment designed to recycle wastewater (more...)

Tate Monroe Receives Finance Package for New Water Treatment Plant

COLUMBUS, OHIO, Feb. 20, 2007 – Randall Hunt, state director for USDA Rural Development announced approval of a $12,577,000 financing package to fund the construction of a new water treatment plant in Clermont, Ohio. The recipient of the loan is the Tate Monroe Water Association, Inc.

“This financial package is certainly one of our larger community investments this year,” said Hunt. “We’ve worked with the Tate Monroe Water Association before and are delighted to be able to help Clermont County residents improve the quality and supply of their drinking water.”

Total cost of the project is $19,436,000. The funds will be used for the construction of a new 2 million-gallon-a-day (mgd) water treatment plant that can be expanded to 6 mgd as demand requires. The water system serves approximately 8,974 customers throughout Clermont County.

Clermont County is located in Ohio’s Appalachian region where Rural Development targets a significant portion of its funding. “Additional Appalachia water projects recently funded include $22 million to Jackson Water Company in Jackson County, $18.2 million to Le-Ax Water District in Hocking County and $20 million to the Buckeye Water District in Columbiana County,” said Hunt. “These four projects total $77.7 million, help provide clean, safe water for more than 25,000 Appalachian families and keeps us focused on our mission of delivering essential services to rural Americans.”

Further information on rural programs is available by calling 614-255-2400, visiting a local USDA Rural Development office or by viewing USDA's web site at http://www.rurdev.usda.gov.

"Hot Jobs" Protect the Environment,
by Kris R. Cash, APR National Rural Water Association -
Most people like to say they are concerned about the environment and a prospering planet. You know, a place where our water is safe, clean and affordable, a planet where people are responsible and not polluting our streams, rivers and oceans. But how many people are actually protecting the planet through their work? - more

Water In The News

This may seem obvious to those in the industry, but as microbiologist Timothy Ford says in this article "If you clean up water and then put it into a dirty pipe, there's not much point..." Old, aging, rusty and deteriorating pipes are something every community needs to think about, not just the big cities. ABC News shows us how this will begin to impact all of us as time goes on...

Biggest threat to U.S. drinking water? Rust

From an attack by militants to a decline in snow melt caused by global warming, public fears about the water supply have heightened in the United States. So who would have thought the top worry among water experts turns out to be rusty pipes?
(more at ABC News.com)

Water In The News

As we wander through the intarwebs, sometimes we come across stories about our industry. Some of these may have valuable information, some might help illustrate common issues, and some may just be simply funny or interesting. We bring you these stories in the hopes you find them helpful and / or informative.

Our first article comes from Houston, and tells a story of meters and customers that many may be familiar with...

Faulty water meter could cost taxpayers
A water fight between a homeowner and the City of Houston could have you double-checking your bill.

One man got a water bill for more than $1,400... (more at KHOU.com)

NEW: Items for the Water Professional

In order to help our members and others in the Water industry, ORWA is happy to bring you some items that may assist you during your work day. We hope to add more equipment over time, and hope you find these helpful. Click Here for our equipment page.

Groundwater Rule
The groundwater rule has been released by EPA. The details are available on www.ruralwater.org . The rule is complicated but flexible. We are in the process of developing some information items you may wish to use in training sessions.

Strickland Supports Rural Water

At a meeting of the Ohio Rural Water Association in January, a question was raised regarding contacting a member of the US Congress from Ohio to write a support letter for the funding which provides on-site technical assistance and training to small and rural water systems. Several of the members in attendance agreed Ted Strickland, 6th District, was the obvious choice due to his past support of rural water issues... (pics & story here)