The recent threats of tariffs from the US, and the prospect of retaliatory tariffs, certainly has everyone in our water sector concerned – here in Canada and in the US.
We thought Covid-19 created uncertain times as we quickly found ways to adapt, but the current leadership in the US is turning everything upside down. As our economies are so integrated, almost every economist has predicted that these tariffs will hurt both sides and a prolonged trade war will be very harmful for communities on both sides of the border. But President Trump “seems” determined to proceed.
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The recent threats of tariffs from the US, and the prospect of retaliatory tariffs, certainly has everyone in our water sector concerned – here in Canada and in the US.
We thought Covid-19 created uncertain times as we quickly found ways to adapt, but the current leadership in the US is turning everything upside down. As our economies are so integrated, almost every economist has predicted that these tariffs will hurt both sides and a prolonged trade war will be very harmful for communities on both sides of the border. But President Trump “seems” determined to proceed.
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It’s time to start planning your 2025 Conference participation, and we want to make sure that the National Water and Wastewater Conference is on your list. Whether you attend as a speaker, delegate or exhibitor/sponsor, make sure you plan to be there!
We've updated our website with hotel and travel information, so you can start planning your time in Victoria! In the meantime, our Call for Presentations is still open, so be sure to submit your proposal before March 28.
Health Canada has published proposed guidance for Trihalomethanes in drinking water. The guideline would establish a maximum acceptable concentration (MAC) for trihalomethanes (THMs) in drinking water as "0.100 mg/L (100 µg/L) based on a locational running annual average of a minimum of quarterly samples taken at the points in the distribution system with the highest potential for THM levels.
CWWA’s drinking water quality committee is reviewing the proposed guidelines and will be submitting comments.
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Health Canada has just published a final document entitled “Guidance on Sampling and Mitigation Measures for Controlling Lead Corrosion.”
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Over the past year, malicious actors have targeted vulnerabilities in edge devices to compromise organizations around the world. The Canadian Centre for Cyber Security has released a joint publication on the Security Considerations for Edge Devices for Canadian Critical Infrastructure Partners. We are issuing this publication to encourage swift action on recommended measures that organizations’ IT professionals can take to protect networks.
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Operators Without Borders is pleased to offer all OWB volunteers the opportunity to take the internationally recognized, Incident Command System (ICS) 100 training course. This workshop of about four hours is offered free of charge. Certificates are issued on successful completion of the post-course online multiple-choice exam.
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Are you a water nerd in the Canadian water industry? Web d like your help celebrating water champions and leaders! The 2025 Water Canada Awards nominations are now open.
The 2025 categories have been refreshed and honour those who demonstrate a strong commitment to improving the quality of the Canadian water sector. View the refreshed categories >>
Submissions are due May 2nd, 2025.
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ES&E Magazine
AtlantiCann Medical Inc. (AMI), an indoor cannabis grower in Lower Sackville, Nova Scotia, resolved a significant wastewater issue involving high phosphorus levels that risked closure by local authorities. Partnering with Econse Water Technologies, they installed a nutrient management system, removing 2,500 kg of phosphorus from 3 million gallons of water, ensuring compliance and environmental protection. Econse provided a cost-effective, tailored solution, enabling AMI to concentrate on production and innovation. The technology’s scalability allows AMI’s 75,000-square-foot facility to grow without breaching municipal wastewater regulations.
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U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Lee Zeldin said his agency under the Trump administration intends to overhaul the WaterSense labeling program for water-efficient products.
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Water Canada
The Rural Ontario Municipal Association (ROMA) conference wrapped up on January 21 in Toronto with a panel discussion on water and wastewater infrastructure challenges in Ontario. Moderated by Steve Paikin of TVO, the panel featured Michele Grenier of the Ontario Water Works Association, Patrick McManus of the Ontario Sewer and Watermain Construction Association, and Craig Dyer, former CFO of Waterloo Region.
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CBC
The city is exploring a preferred option to make repairs to the Bearspaw south feeder main that would involve micro-tunnelling to build a parallel pipe, after last summer's emergency water restrictions.
Councillors on the city's infrastructure and planning committee heard Tuesday about the plan as a way to make the Bearspaw south feeder main more reliable.
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The Conversation
Water scarcity is often viewed as an issue for the arid American West, but the U.S. Northeast’s experience in 2024 shows how severe droughts can occur in just about any part of the country.
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The Guardian
Republicans in Congress and the Trump administration are attempting to repeal the Biden administration’s groundbreaking rules that require all the country’s lead pipes to be replaced over the next 13 years and lower the limit on lead in water.
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Water Online
Communities are expanding their water supply portfolios to address water scarcity driven by population growth, extreme weather, droughts, and urbanization. As freshwater limitations increase, the demand for brackish and seawater desalination is expected to rise. However, significant hurdles — such as high costs due to energy demands and environmental concerns — hinder the widespread adoption of desalination.
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Daily Mail
They might be some of the foulest-smelling things imaginable. But scientists say that stinking fatbergs could form the basis of some beautiful perfumes.
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Michigan Public
President Donald Trump withdrew plans for the Environmental Protection Agency to set new effluent limits on PFAS. The Biden administration plans aimed to set discharge limits on six types of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS.
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CNBC
U.S. trade with Canada and Mexico is back in the crosshairs of the second Trump administration, with the threat made by President Trump to place 25% tariffs on goods from both North American border nations to start on February 1. Much of the focus has centered on autos and other consumer items, but Canada is also the top trading partner of the U.S. for critical chemicals, an industry now bracing for the potential impact.
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CDM Smith
According to a new report from CDM Smith and its research partners, utilities can expect to see, on average, a 37% increase in biosolids management costs in response to new PFAS regulations.
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7
Mar 2025
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When disaster strikes, strong leadership is the cornerstone of resilience. Join Nancy and Vicki as they share their firsthand experiences navigating their teams through major infrastructure emergencies. This session will delve into how they coped with high-stress situations, managed complex challenges, and made critical decisions under pressure.
But their stories don’t start there. Nancy and Vicki will also reflect on their career journeys—what motivated them to enter their fields, the pivotal moments that shaped their leadership styles, and the lessons they’ve learned along the way. Whether you’re an emerging leader or a seasoned professional, this session will offer valuable insights into crisis management, team dynamics, and the personal growth that comes from leading through adversity.
Be inspired by their resilience, gain practical takeaways for your own leadership toolkit, and discover how challenges can become catalysts for both professional and personal growth.
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5
May 2025
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Blue Mountain Village, ON
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18
Jun 2025
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Are you a young water professional ready to shape the future of sustainable water solutions? Join us in Edmonton, Alberta, from June 18–20, 2025.
This conference will bring together diverse communities and sectors to explore innovative strategies, share best practices, and foster collaboration to address today’s critical water challenges. Together, we will pave the way for a sustainable future in water resources and innovation.
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5
Oct 2025
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St. John’s Newfoundland, NL
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2
Nov 2025
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CWWA's national conference featuring presentations from water and wastewater experts from across the country!
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International Women's Day: Leading Through Emergencies
