Phone no: +1 (334) 396-5511 or email us: arwa@alruralwater.com

Alabama Rural Water Association's

Gulf Coast Technical Training Conference

Orange Beach, Alabama, USA May 22 to 24, 2024

Countdown to the Event!

Get Your Package and Register Today!

Attendee Registration Package
Exhibitor Registration Package
Plan Today to Learn at the Beach

The Best Summer Technical Training Session in the Nation!

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Hotels

Where To Stay

Host Hotel

Book by: April 26, 2024

Perdido Beach Resort

27200 Perdido Beach Boulevard
Orange Beach, Alabama 36561
Phone: (800) 634-8001

Group Code:
20642

Rate(s):
Guestroom - $259/night | Beach View - $395/night | Executive Suite $469/night | One Bedroom Suite - $575/night | Two Bedroom Suite - $655/night

A credit card and first night’s room and tax will be required to guarantee the reservation.

Complimentary valet is available.

Room prices are good from Sunday, May 19th to Friday, May 24th for those who wish to enjoy Orange Beach outside of the Event's scheduled agenda.  The hotel will be happy to discuss these options with you should you have any questions.

Attendees should identify themselves as participants of ARWA Gulf Coast Technical Training Conference, Booking ID #20642 in order to receive the special group rate.

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Schedule Overview

Day 01 Wed, May 22, 2024 Day 02 Thu, May 23, 2024 Day 03 Fri, May 24, 2024
2:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Registration Open

Please stop by the registration desk to pick up your badge and receive your conference packet. This is your gateway to a comprehensive program dedicated to the latest in water industry trends, technology, and networking. Ensure you have everything you need to make the most out of this invaluable learning and networking opportunity.

Agenda Items

If you've arrived on Wednesday, feel free to go ahead and register ahead of the conference training sessions beginning Thursday morning.
7:00 AM - 4:30 PM

Registration Open

Agenda Items

Please stop by the registration desk to pick up your badge and receive your conference packet. This is your gateway to a comprehensive program dedicated to the latest in water industry trends, technology, and networking. Ensure you have everything you need to make the most out of this invaluable learning and networking opportunity.
8:00 AM - 10:30 AM

Exhibit Hall

Agenda Items

Welcome, Exhibitors! Begin your conference journey by setting the stage for an unforgettable showcase. From 8:00 AM to 10:30 AM, this designated move-in and setup period is specially arranged for you to comfortably prepare your space, ensuring that everything is ready before the doors open to attendees.

Join us for the much-anticipated Grand Opening of the Exhibit Hall, a vibrant showcase of innovation, collaboration, and inspiration. As the ribbon cuts, step into a world where industry leaders, emerging startups, and technology pioneers converge to share their latest discoveries and solutions.
7:00 AM - 10:30 AM

Continental Breakfast and General Session

The conference opens with training sessions that will benefit anyone in the industry. Whether you are an operations specialist, clerk, general manager, board director, elected official, or another partner in the industry, you will find valuable information in this session that will assist you in furthering the success of your business. We can't wait to see you! 

Agenda Items

Rise and shine! Kick off your day at the conference with our Continental Breakfast Networking Event. It’s the perfect opportunity to fuel your body and mind while connecting with fellow attendees in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.

Kick off the Gulf Coast Technical Training Conference with a warm welcome from ARWA's esteemed Executive Director, Rob White IV. In this opening session, Rob will share valuable insights into the association's achievements over the past year and outline the exciting developments expected in the upcoming months. Attendees will also receive an overview of the conference schedule and learn about key opportunities to engage and collaborate throughout this event. Join us to connect with fellow professionals, gain strategic insights, and set the tone for three days of learning and professional growth.

Experience the power of resilience through the personal journey of Councilman Todd Rauch. In this inspiring session, Councilman Rauch will share his heartfelt story of overcoming challenges and navigating adversities throughout his life and career. This narrative will delve into the strategies that helped him maintain his commitment to service and leadership under pressure. Attendees will leave with a deeper understanding of resilience as a critical skill in both personal growth and professional leadership. Don't miss this opportunity to hear a truly motivational story and learn how to apply these resilience strategies in your own life and career.

Stay informed about the latest regulatory changes with this essential update from the Alabama Department of Environmental Management (ADEM). This session will cover the most recent modifications and additions to the regulations that impact water and wastewater management across the state. Designed for utility professionals, engineers, and compliance officers, this presentation will provide a comprehensive overview of new compliance obligations, enforcement activities, and opportunities for public and private sector cooperation. Equip yourself with the knowledge to navigate the regulatory landscape effectively and ensure your operations remain within legal bounds.

Unlock new opportunities for growth and improvement in your community with insights from the USDA's latest funding initiatives. This session provides a deep dive into the current and upcoming financial support options available through the USDA for rural water and wastewater projects. Ideal for municipal leaders, financial officers, and infrastructure planners, the presentation will outline how to access these funds, the application process, and strategies for maximizing funding efficacy. Learn about successful case studies, understand the criteria for funding, and prepare your projects to meet the challenges of today's environmental and public health needs.

Join us for the much-anticipated Grand Opening of the Exhibit Hall, a vibrant showcase of innovation, collaboration, and inspiration. As the ribbon cuts, step into a world where industry leaders, emerging startups, and technology pioneers converge to share their latest discoveries and solutions.
11:30 PM - 1:00 PM

Strolling Lunch

Agenda Items

Step into a lunch experience designed for the dynamic conference attendee: our Strolling Box Lunch & Networking event. This unique setup allows you to maximize your time at the conference, offering a flexible approach to dining and connecting with others.
1:00 PM - 4:30 PM

Water Technical Session

Agenda Items

Join our expert panel for an in-depth discussion on the pressing issue of PFAS (Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances) in public water systems. This session will cover crucial aspects including the latest Minimum Contaminant Levels (MCLs) guidelines, advanced testing methods, emerging treatment technologies, and the critical timelines for compliance. Communication strategies to effectively inform and engage communities will also be explored. Whether you're a policy maker, water quality professional, or concerned citizen, this panel will equip you with the necessary knowledge and tools to tackle PFAS challenges head-on. Gain insights from leading experts and take part in a live Q&A to address your specific concerns.

A thrilling networking break awaits you, offering a vibrant and stimulating atmosphere to create long-lasting connections with like-minded individuals. The networking break isn't just a chance to refuel with delectable refreshments and a steaming cup of your favorite brew; it's an opportunity to forge powerful relationships that could lead to future partnerships, mentorships, or even friendships. With a diverse array of professionals hailing from various portions of the water industry, you'll find yourself immersed in a melting pot of innovative ideas, best practices, and captivating stories.

Discover practical solutions to enhance your mapping and data collection with high accuracy GPS technology - without breaking the bank. Ideal for surveyors, municipal planners, and GIS professionals, this session will guide you through the latest innovations in low-cost GPS technologies, share case studies of successful implementations, and offer advice on choosing the right equipment. Equip yourself with the skills to upgrade your geospatial projects and increase efficiency in a cost-effective manner.

A modern approach to communicating emergency and day to day information with utility customers utilizing the broadest reaching and most cost effective methods. Topics will include the benefits and pitfalls of mailings, text based communication, website, push notifications, and social media.
1:00 PM - 4:30 PM

Wastewater Technical Session

Agenda Items

Our presentation will outline the project's objectives, methodologies, and the pioneering use of acoustic technology in Alabama to detect anomalies within wastewater systems. We will detail the comprehensive process of data collection, analysis, and the subsequent grading system that has enabled targeted interventions, significantly reducing maintenance costs and project timelines. The results speak volumes: a substantial reduction in expenditure by hundreds of thousands of dollars and a marked acceleration in project execution, underscoring the potential of acoustic assessment in enhancing operational efficiencies and financial savings for water utilities.

Explore the advanced capabilities of disk filtration technology in achieving superior effluent quality in this informative workshop. Designed for water treatment professionals and engineers, this session will delve into the mechanics of disk filters, comparing them to other filtration technologies and demonstrating their efficiency in removing suspended solids and pollutants from water. Participants will learn about the design, operation, and maintenance of disk filters, and how they can be implemented to enhance the treatment process while ensuring regulatory compliance. Practical demonstrations will include case studies and real-world applications to illustrate the effectiveness of disk filters in providing clear, clean, and compliant effluent.

A general overview of pressing cybersecurity related issues, including Ransomware, Business Email Compromise, and Incident Response Planning.

A thrilling networking break awaits you, offering a vibrant and stimulating atmosphere to create long-lasting connections with like-minded individuals. The networking break isn't just a chance to refuel with delectable refreshments and a steaming cup of your favorite brew; it's an opportunity to forge powerful relationships that could lead to future partnerships, mentorships, or even friendships. With a diverse array of professionals hailing from various portions of the water industry, you'll find yourself immersed in a melting pot of innovative ideas, best practices, and captivating stories.

The presentation will cover the history of PFAS, current regulatory framework, and a look at innovative technologies for removal and destruction of PFAS.
6:00 PM - 10:00 PM

Low Country Boil

Agenda Items

Welcome conference attendees to the "Sunset Serenade," a delightful evening of delicious food, captivating entertainment, and stunning beach views.

Set against the backdrop of a picturesque sunset, this beachside low-country boil is the perfect way to unwind and connect with fellow participants after a day of
engaging discussions and presentations.

The aroma of the simmering low-country boil fills the air as guests are invited to gather among friends.
Our culinary team will serve a mouthwatering selection of fresh seafood, including shrimp,
alongside flavorful accompaniments such as corn on the cob, potatoes, and sausage.

7:30 AM - 3:00 PM

Registration Open

Agenda Items

Please stop by the registration desk to pick up your badge and receive your conference packet. This is your gateway to a comprehensive program dedicated to the latest in water industry trends, technology, and networking. Ensure you have everything you need to make the most out of this invaluable learning and networking opportunity.
7:30 AM - 8:30 AM

Continental Breakfast

Agenda Items

Welcome conference attendees to the "Sunrise Gathering," an energizing continental breakfast experience designed to invigorate you for the day ahead. Set within the spacious and elegant exhibit hall, guests will be treated to a delightful assortment of breakfast favorites while having the opportunity to network and explore the exhibits on display.

As conference participants partake in the delicious breakfast offerings, they will have the chance to leisurely explore the various exhibits showcasing innovative products, services, and ideas within the industry. The exhibit hall provides the perfect setting for attendees to network, discuss the conference's themes, and make valuable connections, all while enjoying a nourishing and satisfying meal.

The "Sunrise Gathering" continental breakfast in the exhibit hall offers conference attendees an engaging and revitalizing morning experience, setting the stage for a productive and memorable day of learning, networking, and collaboration.

8:30 AM - 12:00 PM

Water Technical Session

Agenda Items

The presentation takes a holistic view on water treatment by taking into consideration the various factors of current treatment techniques and their implications on water quality. This hands on presentation provides technical background for the causes and control measures for corrosion, scale, disinfection, and phosphorus use.

Have the updated Lead and Copper rules started to feel like a wild goose chase to you? It does NOT have to be! Join us as we walk you through what's required, and the step by step process that will finally allow you to catch that dang goose! With less than a year to complete your preliminary inventory, it is essential to ensure you are collecting and storing your water system's data in an ORGANIZED way. Since new sampling requirements, tighter communication timelines, increased transparency, and more are all going to be reliant upon your inventory it's important to consider HOW you will have to use the data as you are preparing your inventory. We will discuss what LCRR requirements are important, how to develop verification and customer communication strategies, and tips for centralizing your data to make future reporting a breeze. Our team has worked with utilities all over the nation; and, although each state is a little different, the basic work that needs to be done is essentially the same. We'll share some stories of best practices and what has been working as well as regulation updates and what they mean for you going forward.

A thrilling networking break awaits you, offering a vibrant and stimulating atmosphere to create long-lasting connections with like-minded individuals. The networking break isn't just a chance to refuel with delectable refreshments and a steaming cup of your favorite brew; it's an opportunity to forge powerful relationships that could lead to future partnerships, mentorships, or even friendships. With a diverse array of professionals hailing from various portions of the water industry, you'll find yourself immersed in a melting pot of innovative ideas, best practices, and captivating stories.

This presentation provides a very detailed look as to what is needed to properly care for water, towers, and GSTs. What is expected/required for this type of asset management, and also best practices to mitigate asset, damage, and/or loss. Because this is encouraged to be interactive, it makes for a fun time and Q&A can happen anytime.

For 3 years, Climavision has been working with communities and water asset managers, mostly rural, across the country to fill gaps in weather observations between National Weather Service radar systems (NEXRAD) with the goal of illuminating weather gaps - areas with limited weather observations in the lower levels of the atmosphere. Alabama is currently home to one of these radar systems and will receive up to two more in the near future. These gaps often leave communities vulnerable to volatile weather and impacts occur with limited, or no warning at all. Through a unique public/private partnership model, Climavision installs compact radar systems, often on water towers, and partners with local, state, and federal agencies in the hopes of using this data to better inform preparedness and response activities and improve watches, warnings, and alerts in severe weather situations. Once complete, the Climavision supplemental network will provide additional weather surveillance coverage to over 130 million Americans, many of whom live in rural communities. This presentation will provide information on the company's progress so far, how they work with tank owners and maintenance providers, case studies, and how water asset managers might also benefit from this data in their own operations."
8:30 AM - 12:00 PM

Wastewater Technical Session

Agenda Items

More Information Coming Soon...

More Information Coming Soon...

A thrilling networking break awaits you, offering a vibrant and stimulating atmosphere to create long-lasting connections with like-minded individuals. The networking break isn't just a chance to refuel with delectable refreshments and a steaming cup of your favorite brew; it's an opportunity to forge powerful relationships that could lead to future partnerships, mentorships, or even friendships. With a diverse array of professionals hailing from various portions of the water industry, you'll find yourself immersed in a melting pot of innovative ideas, best practices, and captivating stories.

What's going on insurance industry now and in the future. Why is Cyber Liability now?

1. Overview of finance options 2. Loan application process 3. Underwriting the loan, financial ratios Intended to help management know their options and what a financial institution is looking for to get a loan approved.
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Beach Dog Lunch

Agenda Items

Join us for a delicious lunch as we near the end of our conference event.
1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

General Session

Agenda Items

Join us for a pivotal session featuring the Secretary of State who will provide valuable updates and insights into the Alabama Secretary of State�s Official duties, legislative updates, and information on preparation for the 2024 General Election. Attendees will have the unique opportunity to hear directly from a top government official regarding important legislative updates and information surrounding the 2024 General Election. Be sure to attend this session for up-to-the minute information directly from state leadership.

Gain crucial insights into the State Revolving Fund (SRF) programs managed by the Alabama Department of Environmental Management (ADEM). This session will provide attendees with the latest updates on funding opportunities and changes in the criteria for 2024, focusing on how these can benefit water and wastewater projects across the state. Ideal for utility managers, financial planners, and municipal officials, this presentation will offer detailed guidance on navigating the application process, understanding compliance requirements, and maximizing the impact of available funds. Discover the strategic advantages of SRF funding to enhance your infrastructure projects and ensure sustainable operations.

Unlock the door to educational advancement with the new ARWA Member Tuition Discount Program, presented by Faulkner University. This session is designed for ARWA members and their families, offering a groundbreaking opportunity to benefit from a 50% tuition discount. Representatives from Faulkner University will detail how this program can help members and their employees achieve their academic and professional goals affordably. Learn about the wide range of eligible programs, from undergraduate to graduate courses, and how you can easily apply and maximize this substantial educational benefit. Don't miss out on this chance to enhance your skills and those of your family at half the usual cost.
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