Through NACWA, agencies nationwide collaborate and advocate for clean water
Clean Water Services (CWS) CEO Diane Taniguchi-Dennis began a one-year term as president of the National Association of Clean Water Agencies (NACWA) in July.
“NACWA represents the interests of public clean water utilities nationwide as the recognized leader in legislative, regulatory, and legal clean water advocacy—helping to build a resilient and sustainable clean water future,” said Taniguchi-Dennis, who previously served as NACWA’s vice president, treasurer, secretary, and Region 10 board member. “It is an honor to serve on NACWA to share the regional work we accomplish together to protect the Tualatin River, public health, and the one water we all share.”
CWS is actively engaged in NACWA to help shape national water policy. NACWA provides technical information and practical utility management strategies while working on environmental justice, affordability, and innovation. Every year, CWS participates in NACWA’s Peak Performance program that recognizes excellence in complying with environmental regulations. All four of CWS’ state-of-the-art water resource recovery facilities have received recognition through the program.
“NACWA and its member organizations are fortunate to have your leadership in these turbulent times,” Rep. Suzanne Bonamici said in a letter to Taniguchi-Dennis. “NACWA has been the voice for public clean water utilities across the country for more than 50 years. As access to clean, affordable water comes under increasing pressure and utilities face challenges from climate change and aging infrastructure, we rely on organizations like NACWA and its leaders to inform policies that will help shape a more sustainable and resilient future.”
Sen. Ron Wyden also sent a congratulatory letter, thanking Taniguchi-Dennis for her “continued service to Oregon and our nation. I know during your tenure as NACWA’s President, you will continue your leadership on clean water issues at the national level by advocating for federal policies for water utilities nationwide that provide cost-effective clean water services to protect the environment and public health.”
NACWA informs, analyzes, and advocates on the pressing legal, legislative, and regulatory issues that impact U.S. utilities that deliver wastewater, stormwater, and watershed restoration services. NACWA provides representation in the courts on key regulatory compliance cases and works with the Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Congress to elevate public infrastructure and water quality regulatory issues as national priorities.
Pictured: NACWA officers (left to right): Treasurer Kyle Dreyfuss-Wells (CEO, Northeast Ohio Regional Sewer District, Cleveland, Ohio); President Diane Taniguchi-Dennis; Vice President Mickey Conway (CEO, Metro Water Recovery, Denver, Colo.); Secretary Laura Briefer (Director, Salt Lake City Department of Public Utilities, Salt Lake City, Utah).
