EPA Launches Water Sector Resilience and Emergency Preparedness Training Ahead of SDWA Compliance Deadlines
In conjunction with National Preparedness Month, the EPA initiated nationwide training modules to help drinking water and wastewater treatment facilities satisfy emergency response mandates. The initiative provides utilities with operational tools to meet Safe Drinking Water Act compliance and cybersecurity resilience targets.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency launched a comprehensive series of workforce and operational preparedness sessions tailored for water and wastewater utility managers. Coinciding with National Preparedness Month, the initiative provides formal training on hazard mitigation, operational continuity, and system risk management.
The training program focuses on enabling utilities to meet mandatory deadlines associated with Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) Section 1433, which requires facilities to prepare and certify rigorous Risk and Resilience Assessments (RRAs) and Emergency Response Plans (ERPs). The sessions review common operational vulnerabilities spanning physical treatment barriers, source water disruptions, and supply chain bottlenecks.
In addition to natural disaster planning, the EPA's curriculum addresses the escalating volume of cybersecurity threats targeting supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) systems and wastewater instrumentation. Certified operators and utility superintendents participating in the sessions receive continuing education contact hours toward professional licensing requirements.
Nevada Updates Operator Certification Resources
The Nevada Division of Environmental Protection (NDEP) updated its resource materials for wastewater treatment operator certification in September 2026. These updates are part of broader state efforts to streamline professional development and address workforce needs.
Source: Inside Wastewater
Wastewater Treatment Operator Certification Resources Updated
The Nevada Division of Environmental Protection (NDEP) has updated its resources for wastewater treatment operator certification. The agency also announced new grant funding opportunities for watershed-based planning.
Source: NDEP
EPA Promotes Proactive Maintenance During 14th Annual SepticSmart Week
The EPA recently observed its 14th annual SepticSmart Week, emphasizing the importance of proactive maintenance for decentralized wastewater systems. The initiative aims to protect public health and reduce long-term costs for homeowners.
Source: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
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