February 2016

In This Issue
Decision Makers Summit
OfficePRO
Equipment and Operator Expo
EPA launches new online training module
Low-cost money available for sewer, stormwater and water infrastructure
What's happening in Flint, Michigan?
Salary survey
Introduction to sustainable utility management for small and rural water and wastewater systems
Time to Renew Your Membership!
OUR SPONSORS





Do you want your company's logo to be included in the next eNews? Access the media kit here.
Email  Clear eNews
advertising manager, 
 
South Carolina Rural Water Association
401 Western Lane, Suite 10-D
Irmo, SC 29063
803-667-9699 Phone
803-728-0215 Fax

To reach the key decision makers in the Rural water market, contact Al Whalen to advertise in any or all of the following advertising platforms:

* SCRWA Clear  
  eNews Letter 
* SCRWA Website 
* Water is Life  
  Quarterly Publication 
* SCRWA  
  Annual Directory  
 
Al Whalen,
Marketing Manager 
866-985-9782   
EVENTS

Decision Makers Summit
Last chance to register online. Join us at the  Summit !
OfficePRO
Wednesday & Thursday, March 23 & 24
A two-day conference developed by Office Professionals for Office Professionals.  Register now.
 

Equipment and Operator Expo
Thursday, April 21, 8 am - 4 pm
Ready for a day of fun, learning, friendly competitions and networking? That's exactly what the EXPO  is all about. 
 

NEWS

EPA launches new online training module on climate change impacts on water resources
The EPA has released a new online training module, "Understanding Climate Change Impacts on Water Resources." This training module is intended to increase water resource professionals' understanding of the causes of climate change, its potential impacts on water resources, and the challenges that water resource professionals face. The module also describes how federal, state, tribal, and local governments and communities are working to make the United States more resilient to the impacts of climate. The 45-minute training is part of the EPA Watershed Academy Web certificate program. Check out the module here
REGULATORY

Low-cost money available for sewer, stormwater and water infrastructure
The State Revolving Fund (SRF) offers a cheap source of long-term financing for public water systems, public wastewater systems and municipalities for infrastructure improvements. Some projects may qualify for a loan term up to 30 years and in certain cases projects or portions of projects may qualify for a lower rate (hardship, small system, takeover, stormwater or green).
 
SC's SRF Program, prior to developing the list of projects invited to apply for an SRF loan in the upcoming State Fiscal Year (SFY), is asking eligible sponsors interested in using SRF funding for a capital project in SFY 2017 to submit a project questionnaire by March 31, 2016. 
 
To view current loan rates and policies visit the SRF Loans-Financing Terms.
To download a project questionnaire or find out more about eligible projects and technical requirements view 'SRF Documents and Forms' and 'SRF Guidance,' hereTo speak to someone about the SRF Program, contact Shawn Clarke, SRF Program Manager, Shawn.Clarke@dhec.sc.gov, 803-898-3993.
What's happening in Flint, Michigan?
See the EPA Flint Safe Drinking Water Task Force Website, which includes a copy of the 1431, letter from Gina McCarthy to the Governor of Michigan, and this useful information that you may want to use for responding to concerned citizens.

Other details can be found on the final November 2015 report related to the work in the June 24, 2015 Interim Memo as well as the website  created by Virginia Tech to share information on Flint water including, sampling results, extensive list of press articles, local/state/federal government communications, and much more...
SERVICES

Salary survey
Our survey has two goals:
  1. To provide our members with a specific and detailed look at the rural water/wastewater industry across the state.
  2. To demonstrate the skills, value and experience that the individuals who work in the industry possess.
We would greatly appreciate you taking a few moments to complete our 2016 Salary Survey.
Click here to link to the survey. 

Introduction to sustainable utility management for small and rural water and wastewater systems
Introduction to Sustainable Utility Management for Small and Rural Water and Wastewater Systems has been scheduled for 2 pm CST on Feb. 18, 2016.
Register Now

This webinar will provide an introduction to Sustainable Utility Management and provide information on the 10 key management areas. The presentation will also include information to help address small water and wastewater system management concerns and improve system operations.  

Although SCRWA just completed a Water Utility Management class, we will be offering it again in the near future. Check our Training Calendar to find out when & where the next class will be. 
Time to Renew Your Membership!
If you haven't renewed your membership yet, now is the time to do it! The 2016 Membership Directory is going to press next week and you DEFINITELY want to be included! RENEW NOW by downloading a systemindividual or associate membership form or calling our Membership Coordinator, Raine, to renew over the phone (803-602-3676).