v>EPA EPA's WaterTA: A Summary of Providers, Programs, and Initiatives Last updated: September 2024 (This document will be updated periodically to reflect changes in WaterTA providers, programs, and initiatives) This document provides a brief background on the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)'s Water Technical Assistance (WaterTA) programs and initiatives, and the skills and services that WaterTA providers offer to local utilities, municipalities, Tribes, and others eligible to receive assistance. The EPA's free WaterTA increases access to safe and reliable water and wastewater services for communities nationwide by providing hands-on support to identify water infrastructure or water quality challenges, develop plans to address these challenges, build technical, managerial, and financial capacity, maintain regulatory compliance, prepare application materials to finance water infrastructure projects with public funding, and improve resilience. For example, WaterTA providers can assist with planning, assessment, project development, partnerships and engagement, applying for funding and financing, and program management. The EPA collaborates with states, Tribes, territories, community partners, and other stakeholders to implement WaterTA efforts. To learn more about EPA WaterTA, please visit the EPA's WaterTA website: www.epa.gov/WaterTA. Communities facing water infrastructure challenges and could benefit from WaterTA support can complete and submit their information through the EPA's WaterTA Request form. The EPA works closely with our partners, including states and our network of technical assistance (TA) providers to respond to community requests for assistance. If a request is not a good fit for WaterTA, the EPA will follow up with the community and provide other resources as available. Communities can also reach out directly to an individual TA provider through the provided website and/or contact information listed in this document. EPA 830-F-24-006 October 2024 www.epa.gov/WaterTA ------- Current WaterTA Programs and Initiatives The EPA provides WaterTA through multiple programs and initiatives, summarized below. This list reflects the current offerings, which may change overtime. WaterTA Program/Initiative Focus of WaterTA services provided Environmental Finance Centers (EFCs) Provide TA services to support communities to address water infrastructure challenges, develop funding applications, and address other capacity needs. There are multiple types of EFCs. The traditional Regional Multi-Environmental Media (MM) EFCs provide TA for multiple types of media (water, air, land, etc.). The Regional and National Water Infrastructure (Water) EFC Initiatives were an expansion to the EFC grant program to support access to BIL resources and facilitate effective implementation of water, wastewater, and stormwater projects. Training and Technical Assistance (T&TA) for Small Systems Provide training and technical assistance for the following: small public water systems to achieve and maintain compliance with the Safe Drinking Water Act, including improving financial and managerial capacity, improving water quality for wastewater systems and decentralized wastewater systems, and supporting private drinking water well owners to improve water quality. Rural, Small, and Tribal (RST) TA for Wastewater Systems Support rural, small municipalities, and Tribal governments to access finance/funding and support rural, small, and Tribal centralized and decentralized wastewater systems to build capacity to protect water quality and comply with the Clean Water Act. Creating Resilient Water Utilities (CRWU) Provide TA, training, and climate data resources to support water utilities as they pursue climate adaptation and resiliency strategies. Area-Wide Optimization Program (AWOP) Provide tools and approaches for drinking water systems to meet water quality optimization goals and provide an increased - and sustainable - level of public health protection to their consumers. Cvbersecuritv Offer online and in-person courses on water sector cybersecurity threats, vulnerabilities, consequences, best practices, resources, and program development. Additionally, the EPA offers free, confidential assessments and cybersecurity TA to interested drinking water and wastewater utilities. Get the Lead Out (GLO) Initiative Expand the services provided in the Lead Service Line Replacement (LSLR) Accelerators pilot to provide LSLR TA to approximately 200 underserved and disadvantaged communities. Closing America's Wastewater Expand the services provided in the Closing America's Wastewater Access Gap pilot to provide TA to approximately 150 underserved and disadvantaged communities with decentralized wastewater needs (or no wastewater infrastructure at all). Access Gap Initiative Engineering Support Facilitate community access to State Revolving Fund (SRF) resources with a focus on developing engineering materials for applications for disadvantaged and underserved communities, communities that have never accessed SRF funding before, and communities that are not currently receiving an equivalent kind of TA. Page 2 of 36 www.epa.gov/WaterTA ------- EPA WaterTA Providers The table below lists the current WaterTA Providers by EPA Region (R) served (EPA Regional Offices map and additional information can be found here), along with their affiliated EPA WaterTA Program/lnitiative(s). You can click on the name of each TA Provider for a detailed description of their skills and expertise. Area served WaterTA Provider (linked to Provider Profile) EPA WaterTA Program/lnitiative(s) National Environmental Policy Innovation Center (EPIC) WATER EFC National Moonshot Missions (Moonshot) WATER EFC National Rural Community Assistance Partnership (RCAP) WATER EFC, RST, T&TA National U.S. Water Alliance WATER EFC R1/R2 New England Interstate Water Pollution Control Commission RST (NEIWPCC) R1 New England Environmental Finance Center (NEEFC) at the University WATER EFC of Southern Maine R2 Syracuse University Environmental Finance Center (SU EFC) WATER EFC, MM EFC R2 Hudson Valley Regional Council (HVRC) RST R3 Environmental Finance Center at University of Maryland (EFC at UMD) WATER EFC, MM EFC R3 Low Impact Development (LID) Center Inc. MM EFC R4 Southeast Rural Community Assistance Project Inc. (SERCAP) WATER EFC R4 University of North Carolina Environmental Finance Center (UNC EFC) WATER EFC, MM EFC R4 Tennessee Water Resources Research Center (TNWRRC) RST R4 Southeast Sustainabilitv Directors Network (SSDN) MM EFC R5 Delta Institute WATER EFC R5 Great Lakes Community Action Partnership (GLCAP) WATER EFC R5 Michigan Technological University (MTU) MM EFC R6/ National Southwest Environmental Finance Center (SW EFC) R6 WATER EFC, R6 MM EFC, National RST R7 Environmental Finance Center of Wichita State University (EFC WSU) WATER EFC, MM EFC R7 Des Moines Area Community College (DMACC) RST R8/ National National Rural Water Association (NRWA) R8 WATER EFC, R8 MM EFC, National RST, National T&TA R9 Hawai'i Community Foundation (HCF) WATER EFC R9 EFC at California State University, Sacramento (Sacramento State) MM EFC R9/R10 Rural Community Assistance Corporation (RCAC) WATER EFC, MM EFC RIO Alaska Municipal League (AML) RST RIO/ National Pacific Northwest Pollution Prevention Resource Center (PPRC) R8 and National RST National U.S. EPA led Programs and Initiatives CRWU, AWOP, Cybersecuritv, GLO, Closing America's WW Access Gap Initiative, Engineering Support Page 3 of 36 www.epa.gov/WaterTA ------- ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY INNOVATION CENTER R Environmental Policy Innovation Center The Environmental Policy Innovation Center (EPIC) seeks to advance innovative policies that provide equitable access to safe, reliable, and affordable water for communities and nature to thrive. EPIC engages with diverse partners, conducts data analysis and research, explores out-of-box solutions, champions policy change, and provides technical assistance to address disparities across water systems. Some of the initiatives for building an equitable water future include replacing lead pipes, reforming SRF policies, and supporting diverse water sector leadership and training opportunities. EPIC's Funding Navigator team, in close collaboration with national and place-based partners, works with communities to identify, develop, and ultimately implement projects. The Funding Navigator program is designed to support organizations that have jurisdiction to administer public funds related to drinking water provision, wastewater conveyance and treatment, stormwater management, and general water resources stewardship. An eligible entity is defined by the EPA, and may include a local government, municipal authority, public utility, non-profit entity, or jurisdiction that is not currently part of a water or wastewater service area but is seeking to join one. Main skills and expertise provided through this WaterTA program: Project management, stakeholder coordination, community outreach and engagement Water, wastewater, and stormwater capital improvement and financial planning, including regional solutions Community-centered, sustainable, and resilient project development Lead service line replacement: inventories, equitable replacement plans, communications Funding application development Website: https://www.policvinnovation.org/ Contact: Denise Schmidt (denise(5)policvinnovation.org) or Steve Barr (sbarr(5)policvinnovation.org) Page 4 of 36 www.epa.gov/WaterTA ------- MOONSHOT MISSIONS Moonshot Missions Moonshot Missions (Moonshot) is a collective of water leaders, professionals, and engineers with more than 250+ years of hard-earned experience with utility management, governance, community engagement, engineering, operations, and finance. Moonshot helps communities attain clean water by working collaboratively as trusted peer advisors. Using its 360° assessment process, Moonshot sends expert utility advisors into the field to assess conditions, and identify, select, and develop technically and financially sound projects that transform utilities and the communities they serve. Moonshot's utility veterans will translate the utility's aspiration to deliver clean, affordable, and resilient water into a customized roadmap. This roadmap will provide a concrete, practical, and accessible route to secure federal and state funding. Main skills and expertise provided through this WaterTA program: Profile: We do our homework. From day one, we can provide a good sense of your community, technical operations, budget, and management systems. Assessment: We practice humble listening to identify opportunities for improvement, including asset management, capital planning, operational optimization, smart technologies, regionalization, resource recovery, source water, water reuse and energy conservation, stormwater and green infrastructure, climate resilience and carbon capture. Menu: We deliver a menu of potential projects that improve performance and reduce costs, including concept plans and review of budget and rate criteria and requirements. Map: We help utility leadership choose suitable projects and develop a customized roadmap to implementation, including preliminary eligibility and concept development and SRF application support. Launch: We help utilities with project implementation, by providing design and construction oversight and support, change management approaches, training, operating procedures, and monitoring. Website: https://www.moonshotmissions.org/ Contact: Andy Koester (AndyK@moonshotmissions.org) Page 5 of 36 www.epa.gov/WaterTA ------- National Water EFC RCAP Rural Community Assistance Partnership The Rural Community Assistance Partnership (RCAP) is a national network of nonprofit partners with over 350 technical assistance providers across the country in all 50 states, the US Territories and on Tribal lands. RCAP works to improve the quality of life in rural America, starting at the tap. RCAP's team of boots on the ground TA providers across the country help communities by providing long-term practical guidance and capacity-building expertise - from financial advice to environmental services such as helping communities comply with federal and state regulations, and more. RCAP also provides interactive, participant-based trainings on water, wastewater, solid waste disposal and economic development to equip communities with the knowledge, skills, and expertise to manage their infrastructure, economic development projects and ensure financial sustainability. These efforts seek to ensure every community has the resources needed to thrive and sustain themselves now and into the future. Main skills and expertise provided through this WaterTA program: Asset management, mapping, capital improvement; regionalization; resilience, including resilience and risk assessments and emergency response plans Financial records management; project budget development / budgeting / finance options; rate studies and costing; income surveys; financial sustainability - loan repayment / future rate and funding plans Application package development including SRF and other funding eligibility conditions Project and post-construction guidance and administrative support Operations and Maintenance plans, Standard Operating Procedures updates, sampling and monitoring plans, lead service lines (LSLs) and replacement plans Website: https://www.rcap.org/ Contact: Sarah Buck (sbuck@rcap.org) Page 6 of 36 www.epa.gov/WaterTA ------- US Water Alliance US Water Alliance, or "the Alliance", is a national nonprofit dedicated to building a sustainable water future for all. They believe in a One Water approach to water stewardship that emphasizes innovation, inclusivity, and integration. In 2023, the Alliance became a national EFC. As an EFC, the Alliance will provide TA to communities that have historically been underserved, helping them to access federal funds for drinking water, wastewater, and stormwater infrastructure improvements. With expertise through their staff, partners, and consultants, this technical assistance will be offered through four levels of support: managerial, financial, engineering, and engagement. The Alliance's goal is to show in practice how capital investments by local utilities and governments can be guided by community members to improve outcomes. As a TA provider, the Alliance will help underserved communities plan for, obtain, and implement federal funds in a way that furthers equity and delivers long-term benefits. While the exact work will vary depending on each community's distinct water infrastructure needs and challenges, there will be some constants to the way the Alliance approaches this work: Main skills and expertise provided through this WaterTA program: Meaningfully engaging the community: It is essential that we begin our TA efforts by seeking to understand the community's needs, building trust and capacity along the way. By opening lines of communication with the community early on, we can seek input and provide updates throughout the process, ensuring that the final product is one that promotes well-being for all. Developing comprehensive plans: We want to ensure that the projects we help fund are not only serving the community's immediate needs but are also sustained in the long term. To ensure this, we develop comprehensive plans for the communities that we work alongside. Pursuing environmental justice: Where there are historical injustices affecting water access and water quality, we aim to address them. Advancing environmental justice is a key priority of ours, whether that means involving the EPA Office of Environmental Justice and External Civil Rights or addressing infrastructure issues head-on through our work. Website: https://uswateralliance.org/ Contact: Paula Conolly (pconolly@uswateralliance.org) Page 7 of 36 www.epa.gov/WaterTA ------- id NEIWPCC RST New England Interstate Water Pollution Control Commission The New England Interstate Water Pollution Control Commission (NEIWPCC) is a non-profit interstate agency established through an act of Congress in 1947. NEIWPCC works to train environmental professionals, educate the public about key environmental issues, coordinate activities and forums that encourage cooperation among the states, support research projects, and provide overall leadership in the management and protection of water. NEIWPCC is expertly qualified for this project due to their extensive experience with wastewater, stormwater, and drinking water issues on a regional and national level, as well as providing in-person and online operator training, and coordinating workshops and conferences. NEIWPCC is a leader in forming strong bonds between environmental agencies and has a proven ability to bring diverse interest groups together, create forums, and educate with innovative, multi-faceted curricula. Educating and training environmental professionals, as well as facilitating collaboration among state, regional, and federal agencies, are key components of NEIWPCC's mission of working for clean water. Since 1968, NEIWPCC has been providing wastewater operator and other training programs across the Northeast, and annually collaborates with EPA and state partners to present educational offerings and regional workgroups. For over 50 years, they have received funding from the EPA to provide wastewater training under the Clean Water Act §106 grant program. In partnership with the Joint Environmental Training Coordinating Committee , NEIWPCC has administered the wastewater operator training and certification program for the State of Maine since 1985. They have also provided this service in Massachusetts since 2003. In addition to operator training, NEIWPCC also has a wealth of experience coordinating training programs, workshops, and conferences for other water-related topics, including but not limited to residuals management, National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System permitting, Clean Water State Revolving Fund (CWSRF), emerging contaminants, monitoring and management of nutrients, source water protection, and Total Maximum Daily Loads. NEIWPCC's staff develops and implements multiple regional and national training programs each year on these and other issues. Main skills and expertise provided through this WaterTA program: Capacity building through self-paced training courses geared toward equipping rural and/or challenged utilities with basic technical, financial, and managerial knowledge needed for effective management, operation, and maintenance of their facilities. Support in completing the EPA's Capacity, Management, Operations, and Maintenance (CMOM) self- evaluation to identified facilities in need of TA. Provide TA and access to guidance documents/resources to plan, prioritize, and execute needed CMOM improvements. Website: https://neiwpcc.org/ Contact: Dr. Christina Stringer (cstringerffineiwpcc.org) Page 8 of 36 www.epa.gov/WaterTA ------- Anewin | I C New England Water B B B Infrastructure Network Environmental Finance Center ~ Region 1 Multi-Media EFC Region 1 Water EFC New England Environmental Finance Center at the University of Southern Maine Since 2001, the New England Environmental Finance Center (NEEFC) at the University of Southern Maine has worked to build local capacity to pay for the growing costs of protecting critical environmental resources and fostering resilient communities. The NEEFC has established the New England Water Infrastructure Network (NEWIN) to provide free financial, managerial, and technical support for water infrastructure challenges across all of New England and the region's ten federally recognized Tribes. NEWIN's goal is to help communities access BIL funding for drinking water, wastewater, stormwater, and nonpoint source pollution needs through the Clean Water and Drinking Water SRFs and other sources. NEWIN will prioritize reaching disadvantaged communities, those with pressing water quality challenges, and water systems that have not previously applied for SRF funding. Main skills and expertise provided through this WaterTA program: Stormwater management, drinking water and wastewater infrastructure management, and source water protection Climate adaptation and resilience planning Developing sustainable financing solutions and identifying innovative funding sources Serving environmental justice communities, stakeholder coordination, and training and leadership development Website: https://neefc.org/ Contact: Laura Collins (laura.collinsffimaine.edu) Page 9 of 36 www.epa.gov/WaterTA ------- Hudson Valley Regional Council The Hudson Valley Regional Council (HVRC) was established in 1977 as an organization of county governments in New York comprising Dutchess, Orange, Putnam, Rockland, Sullivan, Ulster, and Westchester counties. It's one of 650 such regional planning and development boards in the United States, that in addition to providing a regional perspective, offer education and outreach, TA , and advocacy to the communities they serve. The organization is funded by several federal and state grant programs as well as an annual contribution from the member counties. HVRC provides education and outreach to local municipalities with respect to water quality planning and stormwater management. The current focus is to assist municipalities with Drinking Water Source Protection Plans, nine Element Watershed Management Plans, and education and outreach for municipal separate storm sewer system (MS4) communities. Main skills and expertise provided through this WaterTA program: Outreach and educational training to assist municipalities apply for CWSRF funding Project Planning (e.g. water quality planning) Accessing federal funding opportunities for local projects related to economic development Provide support for New York state's Clean Energy Communities and Climate Smart Communities Programs Website: https://hudsonvalleyregionalcouncil.org/ Contact: Carla Castillo (ccastillo(5)hudsonvallevrc.org) Page 10 of 36 www.epa.gov/WaterTA ------- Environmental Finance Center Syracuse University Syracuse University The Syracuse University Environmental Finance Center (SU EFC) facilitates the development of sustainable and resilient communities throughout US EPA Region 2, which includes New Jersey, New York, Puerto Rico, the US Virgin Islands, and eight Tribal nations. Located at the Syracuse University Center for Sustainable Community Solutions, SU EFC enhances the administrative and financial capacities of state and local government officials, nonprofit organizations, and private sectors to make change toward improved environmental infrastructure and SU EFC works with elected representatives and TA providers to determine the level of community knowledge of, and support for, environmental improvement projects, including water and wastewater systems, drinking water protection, sustainable materials management, land use planning, agricultural infrastructure, and energy efficiency. This program bridges the gap between elected officials and the public by presenting factual information from a neutral position. Outreach methods include public meetings, roundtable discussions, technical assistance and training, and conferences and summits. Main skills and expertise provided through this WaterTA program: Community Engagement and stakeholder outreach (e.g. meeting facilitation, multi-stakeholder engagement approaches, outreach and design services) Needs assessments, studies, and analysis (e.g. survey, focus groups, planning and ordinance review, asset inventories, etc.) Climate Resilience and Readiness: Understanding vulnerabilities and planning for the future (e.g. Scenario Planning, Hazard Mitigation, Climate Adaptation Planning) Identification of funding and application assistance Workforce planning (e.g. gap analysis, succession-planning, knowledge inventory) Website: https://efc.syr.edu/ Contact: Tess Clark (pclark@syr.edu) quality of life. Page 11 of 36 www.epa.gov/WaterTA ------- Low Impact Development Center Low Impact Development Center Inc. The Low Impact Development (LID) Center is a non-profit national research organization that is committed to supporting community-driven initiatives to better manage stormwater while achieving other environmental, public health, social, and economic benefits. For 25 years, the LID Center's team of certified planners, engineers, and landscape architects have helped communities look beyond what's always been done to envision how green infrastructure can be incorporated into urban environments. The LID Center's success is built on collaborative partnerships with communities, universities, and other service providers and by thoughtfully designing nature into built environments. Although a new EFC, the LID Center brings a strong group of nationally recognized leaders with direct experience providing TA to local governments in key environmental media, including: Environmental Infrastructure (e.g., flooding, water, wastewater, and stormwater) Human Health (e.g., toxins and brownfields) Ecosystems (e.g., watershed restoration, climate resilience, and adaptation) The team includes the International City/County Management Association, the Susquehanna River Basin Commission, and the University of the District of Columbia; a historically Black, urban land-grant institution and the only public university in the nation's capital. Each member brings to the table direct experience providing TA to local governments to develop, implement, and finance environmental action plans for a wide variety of issues. Main skills and expertise provided through this WaterTA program: Flooding and stormwater management Climate change resilience and adaptation Water and wastewater management Brownfields remediation and redevelopment Watershed and ecosystem restoration and protection Equitable urban planning and community engagement Practitioner training Implementation of demonstration project Asset Management Website: https://lowimpactdevelopment.org/ Contact: Emily Clifton, Associate Executive Director (ecliftonffilidcenter.org) Page 12 of 36 www.epa.gov/WaterTA ------- ENVIRONMENTAL FINANCE CENTER Region 3 Multi-Media EFC Region 3 Water EFC University of Maryland The Environmental Finance Center at the University of Maryland (EFC at UMD) advances finance solutions to environmental challenges. With more than 25 years of experience, EFC at UMD works with communities to protect natural resources by strengthening the capacity of decision makers to assess needs, develop effective financing methods, and catalyze action. This program serves the states within EPA Region 3, which includes Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, and Virginia. Through direct TA, policy analysis, and research, the EFC at UMD equips communities with the knowledge and tools they need to create more sustainable environments, more resilient societies, and more robust economies. Customized assistance can be provided to local governments on topics such as green infrastructure, resilience, climate and energy, and stormwater finance. The EFC at UMD works directly with local government staff to engage stakeholders, build consensus and identify shared priorities. Services include designing comprehensive outreach campaigns, facilitating focus groups, conducting community surveys, and crafting strategies to finance project implementation. Main skills and expertise provided through this WaterTA program: Climate adaptation and resilience planning/financing Stormwater management and green infrastructure Source water protection Website: https://arch.umd.edu/research-creative-practice/centers/environmental-finance-center Contact: Kristel Sheesley (sheeslevffiumd.edu) or Medessa Burian (msburianffiumd.edu) Page 13 of 36 www.epa.gov/WaterTA ------- ©UNC SCHOOL OF GOVERNMENT Environmental Finance Center University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Environmental Finance Center (UNC EFC) reaches local communities and state and federal programs through the delivery of applied training programs and TA, resource and interactive tool development, and in-depth applied research on best and emerging practices. The UNC EFC sees one of its major roles as increasing the capacity of other organizations to address the financial aspects of environmental protection and service delivery. For this reason and to support the leveraging of resources, the UNC EFC does most of its work in a collaborative mannerpartnering with established organizations that have environmental but not necessarily financial expertise. UNC EFC provides a variety of trainings and direct TA for systems providing drinking water and wastewater services in EPA Region 4 (Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee) on topics ranging from financial sustainability, resiliency, benchmarking, affordability, and water equity. Main skills and expertise provided through this WaterTA program: Financial Benchmarking Rate-setting Affordability and Customer Assistance Programs Innovative Funding and Financing Strategies Identification of and Communication with Financial Auditors Website: https://efc.sog.unc.edu/ Contact: Austin Thompson-Spain (thompson(a)sog.unc.edu) Page 14 of 36 www.epa.gov/WaterTA ------- MULTIMEDIA mm Wd ENVIRONMENTAL ^ FINANCE CENTER Region 4 Multi-Media EFC Southeast Sustainability Directors Network The Southeast Sustainability Directors Network (SSDN) is a collaborative community that develops sustainability solutions to the South's unique sustainability challenges. SSDN's 120+ local and tribal government members build knowledge and learn from colleagues about best practices to meet their community's needs. Members working in all stages of sustainability implementation join the network to scale, accelerate, and implement sustainable best practices so that our region's communities are equipped to adapt to and mitigate climate change. SSDN provides capacity building through a peer-to-peer learning environment, and TA to access federal funding and keep abreast of state policy. Main skills and expertise provided through this WaterTA program: Community outreach and facilitation: Our services include designing comprehensive outreach campaigns, facilitating focus groups, conducting community surveys, and crafting strategies to finance project implementation. Capacity building: Through peer learning, training, and technical assistance, we assist local governments on topics such as environmental justice, green infrastructure, resilience, climate and energy, and drinking water, wastewater and stormwater finance. Research, policy analysis and financial assessment: To foster data-driven decisions, we work with communities to assess programs and policies, analyze budgets, develop financing strategies, and create decision-support tools. Website: https://www.southeastsdn.org/ Contact: Catherine Mercier-Baggett (catherine@southeastsdn.org) Page 15 of 36 www.epa.gov/WaterTA ------- SERCAP, INC. Southeast Rural Community Assistance Project, Inc. Southeast Rural Community Assistance Project, Inc. (SERCAP) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization focused on improving the quality of life for low-to-moderate income individuals living in the Southeast United States. Since 1969, when SERCAP first brought clean, safe drinking water to low-income rural residents of Virginia's Roanoke Valley, the agency has grown into an organization directly responsible for providing safe water, sanitary water disposal, and structurally sound housing to well over a million households across its seven-state service region. SERCAP's work focused on access to clean water, but the agency quickly realized that water is just one of many basic daily needs. Now SERCAP advocates to ensure all residents living in the agency's service region have daily access to clean and affordable drinking water, working indoor plumbing and wastewater facilities, and safe and affordable housing in which to live. SERCAP's services are for homeowners, government and community groups, small business owners, and job and training seekers. Main skills and expertise provided through this WaterTA program: Emergency preparedness planning Asset management Budgeting for long-term system and equipment needs Applications for funding Website: https://sercap.org/ Contact: Charysse Hairston (chairstonffisercap.org) Page 16 of 36 www.epa.gov/WaterTA ------- Tennessee Water Resources Research Center The Tennessee Water Resources Research Center (TNWRRC) is a federally designated state research institute supported in part by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). It serves water resource experts in academia, government, and the private sector, and works to establish productive partnerships within these sectors. TNWRRC is part of the Institute for a Secure and Sustainable Environment at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. TNWRRC's mission is to coordinate research, education, community outreach activities, and training across the state of Tennessee among government agencies, universities, and private sector professionals. TNWRRC is the state representative for the National Institutes for Water Resources, as authorized by Section 104 of the State Water Resources Research Act of 1984. TNWRRC is one of 54 water resources research institutes and centers in the US. The State Water Resources Research Act Program is a Federal-State partnership in which TNWRRC: Is a primary link among water resource experts in academia, government, and the private sector that strive to solve regional water resources issues in Tennessee Promotes research, education, community outreach, and student training for scientists and engineers through research participation Provides state-wide annual competitive research grants under the 104b Program Stimulates research collaboration among the USGS and state universities in support of the national water resources issues funded through the 104g Program Main skills and expertise provided through this WaterTA program: Asset Management and Capital Improvement Plans Capacity Building and Training for Operators and Decision Makers GIS Mapping and Hydraulic Modeling SRF Funding, Financing, and Application Support Utility Needs Assessment Website: https://tnwrrc-dev.utk.edu/technical-assistance/actat-program/ Contact: Steven Hoagland (hoagland@utk.edu) and John Schwartz (jschwart@utk.edu) Page 17 of 36 www.epa.gov/WaterTA ------- ^ Michigan Technological University Michigan Technological University - Great Lakes Environmental Infrastructure Center Great Lakes Environmental Infrastructure Center (GLEIC) has been serving EPA Region 5 since 2016. It is affiliated with Michigan Technological University's Department of Civil, Environmental and Geospatial Engineering and is dedicated to serving local, state, and Tribal government agencies and their private-sector partners in the Great Lakes region. The GLEIC team is composed of subject matter experts ranging from civil, environmental, and geotechnical engineers as well as experts in finance, economics, ecosystem evaluation, and sustainable energy. Other GLEIC project staff include software engineers, technical writers, technical support specialists, conference planners, IT professionals, and business and accounting staff. Based on the backgrounds of the GLEIC team members and the perceived needs of the Great Lakes region, the main focus of the GLEIC is on water, wastewater, and storm water infrastructure, especially for small and rural communities. Main skills and expertise provided through this WaterTA program: Engineering assessments Seminars and trainings Asset management Feasibility studies Website: http://gleic.org Contact: Tim Colling (tkcolling@mtu.edu) Page 18 of 36 www.epa.gov/WaterTA ------- delta institute Delta Institute Delta Institute collaborates with communities to solve complex environmental challenges throughout the Midwest. They address Midwestern environmental, economic, and climate challenges today so that their home and region are more resilient, equitable, and innovative tomorrow. Delta Institute assists communities by integrating natural climate solutions and Green Infrastructure (Gl) to reduce climate change impacts by capturing 100 million stormwater gallons and leveraging $100 million in municipal Gl investment. Delta Institute's primary focus is on communities that are disproportionately affected by flooding, infrastructure needs, and climate change to collaboratively improve their environmental indicators, mitigate local climate impacts, and strengthen neighborhoods' resilience. Main skills and expertise provided through this WaterTA program: Stormwater Management and Green Infrastructure Water Infrastructure Assessment and Recommendations BIL Funding, Federal, State, and Private Grant Financing and Assistance Community Engagement and Outreach Design & Engineering, Implementation, and Administration Assistance Website: https://delta-institute.org/epa-region-5-water-infrastructure/ Contact: Bill Schleizer (delta(Sdelta-institute.org) A Page 19 of 36 www.epa.gov/WaterTA ------- Region 5 Water EFC Great Lakes COMMUNITY ACTION PARTNERSHIP Great Lakes Community Action Partnership Great Lakes Community Action Partnership (GLCAP) has been serving the northwest Ohio area for more than 50 years. GLCAP began in 1965 following the Economic Opportunity Act of 1964, which helped create hundreds of community action agencies throughout the United States. Through GLCAP's RCAP Program the agency serves a seven-state network that includes Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, West Virginia, and Wisconsin (5 of these states are within the US EPA Region 5 region). The RCAP program, which has been in existence since 1973, assists rural low-income individuals and underserved populations in developing and maintaining community infrastructure to improve rural quality of life. Building on its water and wastewater program base, GLCAP has also become increasingly active in economic and broad-based community development initiatives. RCAP staff provide hands on TA and training to help build the technical, managerial, and financial capacity of rural communities. Main skills and expertise provided through this WaterTA program: Needs assessment, problem identification. Project development, planning and application preparation. Evaluating existing systems for alternatives. Financial planning for project (engineering, etc.) costs. Budget and rate evaluations. Environmental & NEPA assessments, asset management plans. Website: https://www.glcap.org/about/ Contact: Kristin Woodall (klwoodall (Sglcap.org) Page 20 of 36 www.epa.gov/WaterTA ------- SOUTHWEST ENVIRONMENTAL FINANCE CENTER Southwest Environmental Finance Center at the University of New Mexico Based at the University of New Mexico, the Southwest Environmental Finance Center (SW EFC) serves the states within EPA Region 6, which includes New Mexico, Texas, Arkansas, Oklahoma, and Louisiana. Since the program was established in 1992, the SW EFC has greatly expanded its work to serve throughout the entire country, including U.S. territories. The SW EFC assists state, local, Tribal governments and the regulated private sector in meeting environmental infrastructure needs and achieving regulatory compliance through state and local capacity building and technical information transfer. The organization involves their partners as an integral part of the projects so there can be improvement within internal capabilities for long-term sustainability and resilience. SW EFC has worked with water and wastewater utilities for over 20 years providing a variety of technical, managerial, and financial services. Main skills and expertise provided through this WaterTA program: Capacity Development (asset management, water loss, GIS/mapping support, LSL inventory), Project development (preliminary engineering reports, environmental review) Explore funding options and application support Construction management, bid support, change order review, domestic preference & Davis Bacon assistance Website: https://swefc.unm.edu/home/ Contact: swefc@unm.edu Page 21 of 36 www.epa.gov/WaterTA ------- DMACC DES MOINES AREA COMMUNITY COLL Des Moines Area Community College The Des Moines Area Community College (DMACC) Water Environmental Technology Program offers comprehensive training for water and wastewater management. Whether you want to start a career in water, continue learning, gain certifications, or obtain continuing education for septic system installation and inspections, DMACC has something for everyone. Main skills and expertise provided through this WaterTA program: Fluent in course & curriculum development and delivery utilizing several platforms such as PowerPoint, Google Slides, Canvas, Blackboard, Teams, Zoom, etc. Management of course scheduling, locations, technology, and training materials. Skilled at using social media and mass email promotion of programs and courses. Knowledge of a wide variety of onsite wastewater topics. Established cohort of onsite wastewater professionals across Iowa to access for instructors and content experts. Website: https://www.dmacc.edu/Pages/welcome.aspx Contact: Aimee Devereaux (adevereaux@dmacc.edu) Page 22 of 36 www.epa.gov/WaterTA ------- w§a Wichita State University Hugo Wall School of Public Affairs Region 7 Multi-Media EFC Region 7 Water EFC Environmental Finance Center Wichita State University The Environmental Finance Center at Wichita State University Environmental (EFC WSU) was established in 2010 to assist Region 7 states (Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska) and adjoining Tribal nations. EFC WSU seeks to help communities build capacity to address environmental challenges through planning, environmental finance, and informed decision-making. EFC WSU provides trainings, TA, decision support tools, and applied research to help communities effectively manage the costs of environmental protection and compliance. EFC WSU's vision is that communities are empowered to take actions that enhance their environmental and financial health to improve the quality of life for everyone. The EFC WSU is also home to the Heartland Environmental Justice Center (HEJC). The HEJC supports underserved and disadvantaged communities in Region 7 build capacity to make meaningful advances towards environmental equity. The HEJC can assist with community assessments to identify the root of environmental justice challenges, connect to funding opportunities, and support communities throughout the process of applying for, managing, and implementing grant-funded initiatives. Main skills and expertise provided through this WaterTA program: Infrastructure, SRF , grant/loan planning and application processes Asset management, capital improvement planning, rate setting, financial planning and capacity building Community engagement including messaging, outreach and education, trust-building, and boards and council trainings Environmental justice, sustainability, resilience, workforce development (cross-training, retention, and recruitment) Wastewater treatment optimization including compliance, mechanical processes, nutrient removal, water loss, and energy efficiency Website: https://www.wichita.edu/efc and www.heartlandej.org Contact: Baylee Vieyra (bavlee.vievraffiwichita.edu) Page 23 of 36 www.epa.gov/WaterTA ------- A NATIONAL RURAL WATER ASSOCIATION NRWA Americas Largest Utility Membership Region 8 Multi-Media EFC Region 8 Water EFC National Rural Water Association The National Rural Water Association (NRWA) is a non-profit organization dedicated to training, supporting, and promoting the water and wastewater professionals that serve small and rural communities across the country. NRWA provides training and technical assistance through fifty affiliated State Rural Water Associations that currently have over 31,000 utility system members. Rural water T&TA covers every aspect of operating, managing, and financing water and wastewater utilities. NRWA generally focuses on assisting small and rural communities that serve less than 10,000 people. However, state associations work in different ways with all sized systems, with many large cities demonstrating their support for rural water as members. Main skills and expertise provided through this WaterTA program: Diagnose and troubleshoot system operational and compliance-related issues and identify cost-effective solutions Address microbial, nitrate/nitrite, arsenic, radionuclides, per-and polyfluoroalkyl (PFAS) substances, disinfection byproducts contamination, and other emerging contaminants Provide guidance on lead and copper revisions and topics related to lead in water, including TA with lead service line inventories and removal Improve long-term management using Community Assistance Programs and Low Income Household Water Assistance Programs Identify and apply for funding sources Prepare for climate-related and manmade disasters and develop Risk and Resiliency Assessments and Emergency Response plans Website: https://nrwa.org/ Contact: David Laughlin (david@nrwa.org) for EFC work and Audrey Whitefeather (Audrey@nrwa.org) for the Training & Technical Assistance grant Page 24 of 36 www.epa.gov/WaterTA ------- ENVIRONMENTAL FINANCE 0 CENTER Region 9 Multi-Media EFC AT SACRAMENTO STATE EFC at California State University, Sacramento (Sacramento State) The EFC at Sacramento State serves state and local agencies, water systems, Tribal communities, and the private sector in EPA Region 9 states and territories, including California, Arizona, Nevada, Hawaii, and the Pacific territories. This organization has provided services and resources for building the capacity to improve and maintain drinking water, wastewater, and stormwater projects and programs, as well as plan for future needs as regulations, technology, and resources change. The EFC is housed within Sacramento State's Office of Water Programs, whose mission is to provide cost-effective solutions for protecting and enhancing water resources, public health, and the environment through training, scientific research, and public education. Main skills and expertise provided through this WaterTA program: Funding applications for planning and constructing infrastructure projects Asset management program planning and implementation, including GIS mapping General TA for Tribes and small or disadvantaged communities Program support for state regulatory and funding agencies Coordination of funding forums and asset management training Website: https://www.efc.csus.edu/ Contact: efc@csus.edu Page 25 of 36 www.epa.gov/WaterTA ------- HAWAI'I COMMUNITY FOUNDATION "I 1# Amplify the Power of Giving Region 9 Water EFC Hawai'i Community Foundation The Hawai'i Community Foundation (HCF) is a tax-exempt Hawai'i nonprofit corporation and statewide community foundation whose mission is to inspire generosity, advocate for equity, forge connections and invest in community to create a better Hawaii. HCF created the CHANGE Framework to facilitate a common way of understanding the most critical issues affecting Hawai'i. HCF's theory of change is that only by acting collectively using a common set of data and shared goals can we effectively solve large-scale issues and create a better Hawai'i now and for future generations. HCF is a trusted community partner throughout the State of Hawai'i, with more than 100 years of work helping the people of Hawai'i thrive. The Hawaiian Islands Environmental Finance Center (HIEFC) uses its unique position as a community convener for systems change, and leader of the state's Fresh Water Initiative for the last nine years, to support community groups that are made up of or serve communities that are disadvantaged or vulnerable within the context of the Hawaiian Islands. HIEFC aims to build core competencies for these entities focused on (1) Funding Resources - helping entities to apply for various streams of funding for water infrastructure needs, and (2) Water Workforce - workforce development in the water sector to ensure labor needed to design, implement, and maintain water infrastructure in the long-term, including labor force assessment and the establishment of a program to place fellows at water agencies. Main skills and expertise provided through this WaterTA program: Needs assessment and recommendations Capacity building and training Project development and planning Application preparation and registrations Grant management Website: https://www.hawaiianislandsefc.org/ Contact: HIEFC@hcf-hawaii.org Page 26 of 36 www.epa.gov/WaterTA ------- gfeRCAC www.rcac.org Rural Community Assistance Corporation Founded in 1978, Rural Community Assistance Corporation (RCAC) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, headquartered in West Sacramento, California. RCAC's employees serve rural communities in Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii and other Pacific islands, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Utah, Washington and Wyoming. Services are available to communities with populations of fewer than 50,000, other nonprofit groups, Tribal organizations, farmworkers, colonias and other specific populations. RCAC focuses programs and services on environmental infrastructure (water, wastewater and solid waste facilities), affordable housing development, economic and leadership development, and community development finance. RCAC works directly with rural communities "on the ground", providing environmental assistance to small municipal and nonprofit water systems, wastewater systems and solid waste management programs. Main skills and expertise provided through this WaterTA program: Provide hands-on TA to address technical, managerial, and financial operations of water and wastewater systems serving rural and Indigenous communities Complete all tasks necessary to submit funding applications and meet requirements of grants or loans received Analyze utility rates and finances to recommend appropriate rate structures to meet community needs Facilitate regional partnerships among utilities and communities Host in-person and online training for utility staff, management, boards, and community members on a variety of technical, managerial and financial topics Website: https://www.rcac.org/ Contact: Ari Neumann (aneumannffircac.org) Region 10 Multi-Media EFC Region 9 & 10 Water EFC Page 27 of 36 www.epa.gov/WaterTA ------- ALASKA g MUNICIPAL LEAGUE Alaska Municipal League The Alaska Municipal League (AML) is a nonprofit, nonpartisan, statewide organization of 165 cities, boroughs, and unified municipalities, representing over 97 percent of Alaska's residents. AML's purpose is to strengthen Alaska's local governments. AML has a long history in supporting local governments, as they were established in 1950, with a goal to modernize territorial governance in municipalities. AML provides numerous programs, services, and resources for local government, as well as advocacy on policy issues that impact Alaska's municipalities. This includes shared services, annual conferences and symposiums, ongoing communication with and advocacy on behalf of their members, and responsive technical assistance and training. AML supports collaboration from grant application through project implementation, especially with BIL funding. Many local governments have direct responsibility in managing water and sewer systems and are challenged with capacity and sustained competency issues, especially in rural and remote communities. AML provides support for municipal financial and governance systems, with a focus on those unserved or underserved communities. Main skills and expertise provided through this WaterTA program: Provide direct TA through community-based planning, development, and financial workshops. Develop and deliver information, training materials and courses related to successfully funding and financing environmental projects eligible for funding under the CWSRF. Work with publicly owned treatment works and decentralized wastewater treatment systems to conduct analyses on the potential benefits of partnerships and collaboration. Assist municipalities with planning processes that identify community goals and seek to have infrastructure investments consider and as appropriate support broader community goals, through processes such as augmented alternative analysis. Work in close coordination with State agencies and Tribal systems in Alaska, utilizing a long-established relationship with Alaska's local governments. Website: https://www.akml.org/ Contact: Nils Andreassen (nilsffiakml.org). Executive Director, Erin Reinders (erinffiakml.org). Director of Infrastructure Development, and Angela Engelkes (angelaffiakml.org). Local Government Assistant Manager Page 28 of 36 www.epa.gov/WaterTA ------- RST pprc POLLUTION PREVENTION resource center Pacific Northwest Pollution Prevention Resource Center The Pacific Northwest Pollution Prevention Resource Center (PPRC) aims to reduce or prevent the generation of pollution at its source through the dissemination of reliable, impartial, high-quality technical information, training, and services. PPRC is recognized for its technical expertise in solving problems that lead to a healthier and more sustainable environment, while helping businesses improve their economic performance. PPRC conducts pollution prevention assessments and training that raise awareness of a business' environmental footprint, and potential solutions to environmental challenges. PPRC is available to directly assist with implementation of selected improvement opportunities. One of PPRC's project, the Western States Alliance, is wholly dedicated to water treatment professionals working with Fats, Oils, and Grease (FOG) abatement programs, plus contaminants of emerging concern. Main skills and expertise provided through this WaterTA program: Training wastewater treatment professionals on how to implement a FOG abatement program, through teaching the business case, data management, engaging partners, best management practices, and strategies to reduce FOG into the conveyance system. TA with implementation of a FOG abatement program, including using data management systems to track progress. Providing networking opportunities, including roundtables and regional meetings. Providing bilingual training. Website: https://www.pprc.org/ and https://www.westernstatesalliance.org/ Contact: Jean Waters, Program Manager (jwaters@pprc.org) or Ed Gonzalez, Director (egonzalez@pprc.org) Page 29 of 36 www.epa.gov/WaterTA ------- EPA's Creating Resilient Water Utilities Initiative EPA's Creating Resilient Water Utilities (CRWU) initiative provides drinking water, wastewater, and stormwater (water sector) utilities with practical tools, training, and technical assistance to increase resilience to climate change. CRWU supports water sector utilities by promoting a clear understanding of climate change and assisting with the identification potential adaptation measures, implementation options, and infrastructure financing. Using the Resilient Strategies Guide and Climate Resilience and Awareness Tool, water sector utility owners and operators can begin the process of assessing climate risk from these events. EPA's CRWU initiative engages utilities in a one-on-one TA process with substantial subject matter expertise and facilitation support throughout. CRWU assists by promoting a clear understanding of climate change and helps to identify potential long-term adaptation options for decision-making related to implementation and infrastructure financing. Main skills and expertise provided through this WaterTA program: Provide direct TA to drinking water, wastewater, and stormwater utilities conducting climate change risk assessments Support use and adoption of practical tools and data to increase climate resilience of utilities and the communities that rely on their services Promote a clear understanding of complex climate science and potential long-term adaptation options through water utility training and community engagement Leverage training and assistance efforts to build resilience and adaptive capacity in communities that have experienced and will continue to bear disproportionate climate change impacts Educate utilities on potential funding sources for implementation of potential adaptive measures Website: https://www.epa.gov/crwu Contact: Curt Baranowski (baranowski.curtffiepa.gov) Page 30 of 36 www.epa.gov/WaterTA ------- EPA's Area-Wide Optimization Program The Area-Wide Optimization Program (AWOP) provides tools and approaches for drinking water systems to meet water quality optimization goals and provide an increased - and sustainable - level of public health protection to their customers. AWOP tools can also be utilized to provide compliance assistance through optimization, particularly for small- and medium-sized systems. The program teaches problem-solving skills designed to improve operations at drinking water systems without costly capital improvements. For some systems (e.g., especially those with inadequate or aging water infrastructure) the program approach may identify needed capital improvements. Other systems may be able to meet optimization goals with their existing treatment and infrastructure. The optimization goals are more stringent than the regulations and state participation in AWOP is voluntary. Realizing the many benefits the program provides, a growing number of states from each EPA Region currently implements an ("Area Wide") optimization program. Main skills and expertise provided through this WaterTA program: Engage EPA Regions and states to develop tools and systematic approaches to improve water quality and overall system performance, concurrently identifying gaps and needs for capital improvement Provide training related to best practices and operational strategies for PWS operators and TA providers intended to improve treated and distributed water quality Focus on both regulated and emerging contaminants Website: https://www.epa.gov/sdwa/optimization-program-drinking-water-svstems Contact: Rick Lieberman (lieberman.richard@epa.gov) or Alison Dugan (dugan.alison@epa.gov) Page 31 of 36 www.epa.gov/WaterTA ------- EPA's Cybersecurity Technical Assistance The Cybersecurity Technical Assistance Program will support primacy agencies and water systems in implementing cybersecurity measures. Users may submit questions or request to consult with a subject matter expert regarding cybersecurity in Public Water System (PWS) sanitary surveys or other cybersecurity matters. EPA also provides resources for cybersecurity risk assessments, planning, training, response, and funding. Main skills and expertise provided through this WaterTA program: Engage EPA Regions and states to develop tools and systematic approaches to improve water quality and overall system performance, concurrently identifying gaps and needs for capital improvement Provide training related to best practices and operational strategies for PWS operators and TA providers intended to improve treated and distributed water quality Focus on both regulated and emerging contaminants Website: https://www.epa.gov/waterresilience/epa-cybersecurity-water-sector Contact: Nushat Thomas (thomas.nushatffiepa.gov) Page 32 of 36 www.epa.gov/WaterTA ------- EPA's Get the Lead Out (GLO) Initiative The Get the Lead Out (GLO) Initiative takes lessons learned/best practices from the LSLR Accelerators pilot program and will expand LSLR WaterTA to 200 additional underserved and disadvantaged communities. The objective of the GLO Initiative is to provide TA to accelerate the removal of lead pipes and help connect communities to federal funding through the BIL. EPA is considering multiple factors in community selection, including overall community need (prioritizing disadvantaged or underserved communities), the presence of LSLs, and readiness to receive TA. Communities of any size with LSL's, or service lines (SL's) with unknown materials in their distribution system and that are served by a SRF eligible public water system may be considered to receive TA through the GLO Initiative. Communities can request LSLR TA completing the WaterTA request form. EPA will coordinate with the states to determine communities most in need of GLO's TA services. The services provided under the GLO initiative will be conducted by EPA, including its contractors, and in coordination with states and water systems. Main skills and expertise provided through this WaterTA program: EPA will provide engineering and project management support to assist communities in developing: o LSL Inventories that meet 2021 Lead and Copper Rule Revisions requirements deadline; o Community Engagement Plans that invite community input, provide educational resources, and engage affected community members while identifying and replacing LSLs; o LSLR plans to provide each municipality a roadmap for 100% identification and full LSLR, including public and private portions; and o SRF Applications to help communities fund their SL replacement. Each recipient will receive a customized plan to facilitate their work with the state, o Additionally, EPA will develop tools and case studies to share information and best practices between the agency, state and Tribal programs, water system managers, and community leaders. Website: https://www.epa.gov/water-infrastructure/get-lead-out-initiative Contact: Alex Horansky (Horanskv.Alexffiepa.gov) Page 33 of 36 www.epa.gov/WaterTA ------- EPA's Closing America's Wastewater Access Gap Initiative An estimated 2.2 million people in the U.S. lack basic running water and indoor plumbing in their homes. Inadequate and failing wastewater infrastructure poses direct health risks to families and stymies economic growth and community vitality. In August 2022, the EPA and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), in collaboration with states and Tribes, partnered on the Closing America's Wastewater Access Gap Community Initiative. EPA and USDA jointly leveraged TA resources to help historically underserved communities identify, and pursue, federal funding opportunities to address their wastewater needs. Building on the success of the initial pilot program, which assisted 11 underserved communities, EPA is expanding the Closing America's Wastewater Access Gap Initiative to 150 additional communities across Rural America. This programalong with historic funding availability through the BIL and other federal funding programs for water infrastructurewill change the odds for rural communities who are burdened by the lack of adequate wastewater services. Communities with inadequate, non-existent or failing wastewater infrastructure would be eligible for help through this program. Recipients of technical assistance will access solutions-oriented guidance that focuses on community's wastewater needs. Participating communities will be matched with a TA provider that has expertise specific to the community's needs with septic systems and wastewater management. They will help identify financial options to improve wastewater infrastructure including finding funding sources. Main skills and expertise provided through this WaterTA program: Assess the community's wastewater needs. Evaluate the feasibility of wastewater solutions, including performing a rate study. Identify funding options, such as grants and financing. Help with completing the preliminary engineering and paperwork requirements for funding applications. Assist the community/county with establishing an ordinance for wastewater management. Website: https://www.epa.gov/water-infrastructure/closing-americas-wastewater-access-gap Contact: Zach Lowenstein (Lowenstein.Zacharvffiepa.gov) Page 34 of 36 www.epa.gov/WaterTA ------- EPA's WaterTA Engineering Support An individual community or TA Provider can request WaterTA Engineering Support to help fill any gaps in accessing federal funding for water infrastructure projects. Goals for Engineering Support: Support projects that are eligible for Drinking Water or CWSRF funding with deliverables that can support an SRF application Support communities that have not historically accessed the SRF Support is consistent with the guidance outlined in the Implementation of EPA Water Technical Assistance Memorandum EPA's WaterTA Engineering Support is intended to facilitate community access to SRF resources with a focus on disadvantaged and underserved communities, communities that have never accessed SRF funding before, and communities that are not currently receiving an equivalent kind of TA. Main skills and expertise provided through this WaterTA program: Development of Project Needs Assessments Development of Preliminary Engineering Reports Additional engineering support may be available on a case-by-case basis Website: https://www.epa.gov/water-infrastructure/waterta-engineering-support Contact: Submit requests to EPA's Water Technical Assistance Request Form Danusha Chandy, Office of Wastewater Management (Chandv.Danushaffiepa.gov) Tyler Barber, Office of Ground Water and Drinking Water (Barber.Tvlerffiepa.gov) Page 35 of 36 www.epa.gov/WaterTA ------- Abbreviations AML Alaska Municipal League AWOP Area-Wide Optimization Program BIL Bipartisan Infrastructure Law CMOM Capacity, Management, Operations, and Maintenance CRWU Creating Resilient Water Utilities CWSRF Clean Water State Revolving Fund DMACC Des Moines Area Community College DWSRF Drinking Water State Revolving Fund EFC Environmental Finance Center EFC at UMD Environmental Finance Center at University of Maryland EFC WSU Environmental Finance Center of Wichita State University EPA Environmental Protection Agency EPIC Environmental Policy Innovation Center Gl Green Infrastructure GLCAP Great Lakes Community Action Partnership GLEIC Great Lakes Environmental Infrastructure Center GLO Get the Lead Out Initiative HCF Hawaii Community Foundation HEJC Heartland Environmental Justice Center HIEFC Hawaiian Islands Environmental Finance Center HRVC The Hudson Valley Regional Council LID Low Impact Development LSLR Lead Service Line Replacement MM Multi-Media Moonshot Moonshot Missions NEEFC New England Environmental Finance Center, NEIWPCC New England Interstate Water Pollution Control Commission NEWIN New England Water Infrastructure Network NRWA National Rural Water Association PPRC Pollution Prevention Resource Center PWS Public Water System R Region (as in EPA Region) RCAC Rural Community Assistance Corporation RCAP Rural Community Assistance Partnership RST Rural, Small, and Tribal TA for Wastewater Systems SERCAP Southeast Rural Community Assistance Project lnc._ SL Service Line SRF State Revolving Fund SSDN Southeast Sustainability Directors Network SU EFC Syracuse University Environmental Finance Center SW EFC Southwest Environmental Finance Center T&TA Training & Technical Assistance for Small Systems TNWRRC Tennessee Water Resources Research Center UNC EFC University of North Carolina Environmental Finance Center USDA U.S. Department of Agriculture USGS U.S. Geological Survey WaterTA Water Technical Assistance Page 36 of 36 www.epa.gov/WaterTA ------- |