The Illinois Potable Water Supply Operators Association (IPWSOA) was formed in the fall of 1931 by the Illinois Board of Health. Operators met regulatory officials to listen to presentations regarding health and safety issues for drinking water, new laws and rules, potable water production, distribution, monitoring, and the competent operation of drinking water facilities. The purpose of the gathering was to keep drinking water operators current with regulations and state-of-the-art changes to water operation. The day ended with a picnic, where attendees celebrated the success of the day, and discussed the need for a regular meeting to ensure that drinking water operators continued to receive the most up-to-date information regarding operations and regulations in their industry. The Illinois Potable Water Supply Operators Association became a reality.

Over the years, changes to operation, rapidly increasing regulations, and the marketing of products and services to the water industry caused the Association to expand the Annual Fall Conference. The Conference now spans two and one-half full days of education; an Exhibit Hall that brings manufacturers, service experts and vendors to a drinking water marketplace; and evening social activities that include an opportunity to recognize the best operators in the categories of surface water, groundwater, and distribution system operation, each year. The heart of the Conference — the exchange of information and experiences, from operator to operator, from across the many regions of the State – remains the same. No matter where operators congregate, the challenges, problems, and successful solutions to safe and efficient water treatment remain the most common topic of discussion, regardless of the time of day or night.

Come and share your experiences, ask your questions, and relate your experiences as an Illinois drinking water operator, regulator, or industry professional. We welcome you

Welcome to the Illinois Potable Water Supply Operators Association. Formed in 1931, the Association was a way for operators to meet with regulatory officials to discuss new rules, operations, and safety issues. From that first meeting, the Association has evolved into a two and a half day conference which is attended by over 1,000 operators from throughout the state.

The 82nd Annual Fall Conference is slated to be held at the Crown Plaza Hotel in Springfield, Illinois on September 11 – 13, 2013. As in the past, the Conference will offer a wide variety of IEPA approved continuing education classes for attending operators. From plant operations to keeping abreast of new federal and state mandates, the conference offers something for everyone.

The “Operator of the Year” award, given to the top three operators in each classification of Distribution, Ground Water, and Surface Water, is the highlight of the conference. This is a way to thank those who have demonstrated excellence during the year. In addition, be sure to take the time and walk through the vendors’ area. With over 80 vendors in attendance, it is a great way to learn of new products on the market or discuss problems you might be incurring. We will also be having our annual golf scramble at the Rail Country Club, Casino Night, mini-NASCAR racing in the vendors’ area and an amazing spouse program. The Conference is a great way to create new friendships and renew old ones.

I wish to thank my fellow board members, committee members, and numerous volunteers for the many hours of help that it takes to make this such a great conference. Looking forward to seeing you in Springfield.

Best Regards,

Kevin

Kevin B. Johnessee
Northeast Central County Public Water District
IPWSOA President