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HIGHLIGHTS
On February 5, the EPA held its third virtual public meeting on proposed revisions to the Clean Water Act Section 401 Certification Rule. Speakers emphasized the importance of collaborative engagement with states and tribes, as well as maintaining regulatory stability, effective water quality oversight, and federal transparency.
On February 4, the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee examined cybersecurity challenges facing U.S. water infrastructure and discussed strategies to strengthen utility security. Experts highlighted vulnerabilities such as outdated systems, machine control interfaces, and reliance on vendors. They emphasized flexible solutions and funding for resilience programs.
On January 29, ICWP and WSWC hosted a webinar on Water Workforce Development, bringing together water agencies to discuss talent gaps, AI use, and recruitment challenges. Participants highlighted barriers such as legacy systems, data security concerns, and knowledge retention. They explored strategies including internships, clearer job descriptions, non-traditional applicant outreach, and practical candidate assessments.
From January 8–February 2, Western governors delivered their state of the state addresses. Governors highlighted investments in water projects, including new Active Management Areas in Arizona, the Sites Reservoir in California, and local water projects under Colorado’s Water Plan. Others addressed climate resilience and disaster response, including Washington’s historic flooding.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
The WSWC Spring (209th) Meetings and Washington, D.C., Roundtable, jointly hosted by the Interstate Council on Water Policy (ICWP), will be held from April 21-24, 2026.
The Joint ICWP-WSWC Roundtable is an in-person only meeting with a registration fee. Please register in advance from the ICWP event page. The WSWC Organizational Meeting will be held in person with virtual accommodations. There is no registration fee. Please register in advance from the WSWC event page.
MEETING SCHEDULE:
Monday: Travel Day
Tuesday: Congressional Hill Visits
Wednesday: Joint ICWP-WSWC Roundtable and evening reception
Thursday: WSWC Organizational Meeting
Friday: WSWC-WestFAST Principals Meeting (EPA Headquarters from 9:00 am – 11:00 am)
MEETING VENUE: All ICWP/WSWC meetings on Wednesday and Thursday will be held at the Xylem Reservoir Center for Water Solutions located at 301 Water Street SE, Washington, DC 20003.