Massachusetts Water Works Association

The Massachusetts Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs has just issued this drought alert that provides information on the current?drought?conditions and how communities across the Commonwealth can do their part on water conservation, fire prevention, and?drought?preparedness.? ? For more information on the current?drought?conditions, technical guidance regarding?drought?management actions and for?drought-related tools and outreach materials, please visit https://lnkd.in/e5VcpVUm; for water conservation information, go to https://lnkd.in/eYKHE9p.

In today's #MemberMonday, we highlight our utility member, Littleton Electric Light & Water Departments (LELWD), along with two of their operators, Paul Denaro and Allan Woitowicz. Littleton received MWWA's 2024 Community Award which recognizes a community water system that exemplifies the highest standards of water works practice.?LELWD has made significant investments to enhance the water quality in their community. Pictured for LELWD is Superintendent Matthew Silverman (Left). Paul Denaro (Middle) received a Water Works Pride Award for demonstrating extraordinary dedication, leadership, and expertise in the field of water treatment and management. His numerous contributions significantly enhanced the efficiency, reliability, and safety of LELWD's water system, benefiting the entire Littleton community. Allan Woitowicz (Right) was recognized for his outstanding service and dedication during the mutual aid assistance that LELWD provided to the City of Jackson, Mississippi. Allan, a highly skilled Utility Specialist, played a critical role in the emergency response following severe storms that left Jackson’s water system temporarily offline. Allan did not hesitate in volunteering for a nationwide call for personnel and equipment, demonstrating remarkable commitment and professionalism.

On this #Veteran's Day (also #MemberMonday), we want to recognize Todd Melanson, a proud US Army veteran & current Superintendent of the Billerica Water Department Todd received MWWA's 2024 Paul F. Howard Award" otherwise known as our Active Member of the Year Award at our recent Annual Meeting. Professionally, and as an elected official in his town, he strives to improve the quality, quantity, & reliability of water for those he serves. Todd represents MWWA on the MassDEP Laboratory Advisory Committee, is a member of MWWA's Technical Committee, and has been a vocal advocate on policy and legislative issues impacting the water sector. We salute Todd and all the veterans for the sacrifices they and their families have made to protect the freedoms we enjoy.

The intensity of drought conditions has increased a lot in the past 45 days. Water suppliers in MA are watching conditions closely and trying to manage sources appropriately. It’s always important to follow whatever guidance your local water system is giving you, they may be at a more critical level than even a neighboring community. Any water supplier looking for ready-made social media resources should check out the state’s toolkit: https://lnkd.in/ekKVY9y5 #Drought

On this #MemberMonday we introduce Jaimye Bartak, AICP Bartak from Springfield Water & Sewer Commission installed as MWWA's 76th President on Friday night. We were also excited to announce our newest Trustee Douglas Martin, P.E. (pictured right), he joins (L-R) Steve Horn, Matt Pearson, Blake Lukis, Lauren Underwood, P.E., Jaimye Bartak, AICP, Kimberly Abraham, and Jon Gregory on the Board of Directors. We also thank Lauren Underwood, P.E. for an outstanding job as President this past year!

NEWWA Young Professionals - Feel free to fill out our survey

Happy #MemberMonday! Meet Fred Russell, DPW Director for the Town of Billerica. Fred was recognized at MWWA's Fall Forum for his 30 years of membership in MWWA. We appreciate members like Fred for their steadfast support of MWWA all these years! He was presented with a certificate and a pin by MWWA President Lauren Underwood, P.E.

In today's #MemberMonday we salute our utility member, the Springfield Water & Sewer Commission, on the October 16th groundbreaking for their state-of-the-art water filtration plant. This 300 million-dollar new plant will help SWSC meet the needs of the 250,000 people they serve well into the future. Follow their journey here: https://lnkd.in/gc9cYvp2. Pictured: Christina Jones, P.E.. Jennifer Pederson, SWSC executive director Josh Schimmel, Kirsten K., Jaimye Bartak, AICP, Katie Shea.

Harvard's not alone. Many utilities are struggling with this new requirement for a bathroom in unoccupied structures, it's driving up the cost of #waterinfrastructure for no added benefit. MWWA asked the Plumbing Board to revisit & we're frustrated they haven't. We are working with ACECMA to try to gather more data on the types of structures that may be subject to this to present to the Healey administration. Are you in a similar boat to Harvard? Let me know, we'd like to have details on your project. https://lnkd.in/e4_hmq_e