News
House Votes to Send CR to President for Signature
The House of Representatives votes this week to send a short-term continuing resolution funding the federal government until December 11, 2026, to the President for signature. The Senate advanced the continuing resolution last month. The action this week staves off a potential government shutdown before the mid-term elections in November. The CR keeps federal funding at current spending levels.
Active Threat to Siemens S7 Series PLCs
Last week the NSA, CISA, FBI, DOE, and EPA released a Cybersecurity Advisory to warn owners and operators of industrial control systems (ICSs) of an active cyber threat to Siemens S7 Series PLCs and provided relevant mitigations to protect and defend them. This is an active advisory for an ongoing threat to Siemens S7 Series programmable logic controllers (PLCs). All PLC owners and operators should apply relevant mitigations to reduce the risk to their devices and systems. The Siemens-specific content in this advisory should be understood and applied as one subset of the wider threat landscape. Note: just because you do not use the Siemens S7 Series PLC does not mean the mitigation recommendations would not help protect your system. Important mitigations include:
- Inventory all Siemens S7 Series programmable logic controllers (PLCs)
- Apply critical security patches
- Ensure PLCs are not accessible from the Internet
- Strengthen access controls
- Monitor for unauthorized activity
- Harden PLC services, protocols, and ladder logic integrity
- Hunt for anomalies that may indicate a compromise
A copy of the entire Cybersecurity Advisory can be found here: Defending Against an Active Threat to Siemens S7 Series PLCs | CISA
Renaming Lake Ontario as Lake America
On August 27, 2026 the President of the United States issued Executive Order 14422 which directs the U.S. Department of the Interior and the Board on Geographic Names to update federal databases and maps to now reflect the name “Lake America” for U.S. users and federal documents. This order does not require private companies to change their usage, and several online map companies have indicated they do not plan to change the name just yet, while others show U.S. users “Lake America” but show the rest of the world “Lake Ontario.” A copy of the Executive Order can be found here: Honoring the American History of the Great Lakes and Renaming Lake Ontario as Lake America
Federal Disaster Assistance: An Overview of Programs
Last week the Congressional Research Service (CRS) issued a report documenting the current state of Federal Disaster Assistance Programs. The report “is designed to assist Members of Congress and their staff as they address the needs of their states, communities, and constituents after disasters.” The report includes a “summary of federal programs that provide financial assistance for federally declared disasters to individual survivors, states, territories, tribes, local governments, and nongovernmental entities following natural or human-caused disasters.” Programs discussed in this report satisfy one or more of the following criteria:
- Congress expressly designated the program to provide financial assistance for disaster relief or recovery.
- The program is applicable to most disaster situations, even if not specifically authorized for that purpose.
- FEMA and other federal agencies have frequently used the program to provide financial or direct assistance.
- The program is potentially useful for addressing short-term and long-term response and recovery needs.
A copy of the report can be found here: Federal Disaster Assistance: An Overview of Programs
Request for Comment: CWSRF and DWSRF ICR Renewal
Last week EPA published in the Federal register an ICR renewal request for comment related to the Clean Water State Revolving Fund (CWSRF) and Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF) Programs. This is a proposed extension of the current ICR, which is currently approved through August 31, 2026. The information collection activities generally occur primarily at the program-level through the State Capitalization Grant Agreement/Intended Use Plan and Annual Report. EPA believes programs need this information to ensure the national accountability, adequate public review and comment, fiscal integrity, and consistent management needed to achieve public health. A 60 day comment period was originally requested in May 2026 and this is a 30 day extension of that period. Comments are now due by September 28, 2026. Notice in the Federal Register can be found here: Comment Request; Clean Water State Revolving Fund and Drinking Water State Revolving Fund Programs (Renewal)
SepticSmart Week 2026: September 14-18, 2026
In 2026, SepticSmart Week celebrates its 14th Anniversary!
SepticSmart Week is an annual event that occurs the third week of September. Communities, national organizations, local groups, and state governments can bring attention to the importance of caring for and maintaining septic systems by organizing homeowner education events, sponsoring workshops or sharing social media from the SepticSmart program.
View SepticSmart Week resources here on EPA’s website.
Association Updates
Notice – No Wrap the Week of September 7, 2026
In observance of the holiday week, ACWA will not publish a Weekly Wrap the week of September 7, 2026. Look out for our next edition the week of September 14, 2026.
ACWA 2027 Spring Clean Water Act Regulators Summit – Save The Date!
Dates: March 24, 2027 at 8:00 am – March 25, 2027 at 12:00 pm
Board of Directors will meet March 23, 2027.
Venue: The Hilton Alexandria Old Town, Alexandria, VA
ACWA has provided a draft agenda for attendee travel approval purposes. View the draft agenda here.
Check here on our website for more information regarding registration, lodging, and agenda updates.
2026 Water Quality Modeling Workshop – Room Block Closes Today!
ACWA and US EPA will be holding simultaneous modeling trainings the week of September 28th, at the Martin Luther King Jr. Federal Building in Atlanta, GA.
ACWA’s Modeling Workshop will have 2 tracks to choose from, a modelers forum, which will feature case studies, demos, and group discussions, as well as a HAWQS/SWAT+ hands on training. Each track will have a cap of 40 attendees. These trainings will run Tuesday September 29 – Thursday, October 1. More info may be found on ACWA’s Event Page here.
You may register for either of these tracks here.
View the draft agendas here.
Concurrently, US EPA Region 4 and the National Water Modeling Workgroup will sponsor a 5-day workshop on water quality principles/modeling using the Water Quality Analysis Simulation Program (WASP) on September 28th – October 2nd. There is a cap of 40 people for this in-person only class at the Martin Luther King Jr. Federal Building in Atlanta, GA.
If you are interested in attending this workshop, please visit WASP Website click the “Register for Workshop” link to complete the registration form. The workshop is open to all and there is no registration fee for the workshop. Attendees are responsible for their own travel and lodging related expenses. Please contact Catherine York (York.Catherine@epa.gov) with questions on the WASP training.
ACWA will have some travel support for state staff attending either of these trainings. Please reach out to Lexy Bailey if you will need travel support.
A room block has been procured for attendees at the Origin Hotel below the local per diem rate. Reserve your room here. The room block will close September 4, 2026.
2026 National NPDES Program Efficiency Workshop – Save the Date (Virtual)
Date: November 2 – 6, 2026
Time: 12:00pm – 5:00pm Eastern
Purpose: The 2026 National NPDES Program Efficiency Workshop supports implementation of federal and NPDES permitting programs nationwide by highlighting administrative efficiencies, sharing best management practices, showcasing innovative federal and state programs, improving data quality, highlighting new approaches and technologies, facilitating coregulator collaborations and identifying challenges and barriers. Program areas to be considered for the workshop include jurisdictional determination, permit application, public process, permit issuance, monitoring and reporting, data management, compliance monitoring, inspections, violations and response, enforcement, and oversight.
Meetings and Webinars
NOWRA’s Septic Smart Week Webinar
Date and Time: September 14, 2026, 2-3:30 pm ET
REGISTER HERE
NOWRA is hosting a free webinar for homeowners with on-site wastewater treatment systems (septic systems). Learn how your system works, plus practical tips to extend its life through proper use and regular maintenance. Don’t miss expert guidance on keeping your system efficient and trouble-free.
SepticSmart Week — EPA’s annual awareness event held each year in the third week of September to promote proper septic system care.
The National Onsite Wastewater Recycling Association (NOWRA) is the premier U.S. organization specializing in onsite and decentralized wastewater systems. We educate, advocate for sound policy, and connect educators, regulators, engineers, contractors, manufacturers, and service providers to safeguard North America’s water resources and environment.
NOWRA headquarters is located in Westford, Massachusetts, with local constituent groups throughout the U.S. To find a local member or affiliate group please see our website at:
Chlorine Disinfection and Calculations for Drinking Water Operators
Date and Time: September 15, 2026 at 01:00 PM – 02:00 PM (EDT)
REGISTER HERE
Chlorine disinfection is one of the most important processes used in drinking water treatment and distribution systems to protect public health. This one-hour webinar provides drinking water operators with an overview of chlorine chemistry, disinfection principles, and the practical calculations required for effective system operation. Participants will learn how chlorine works to inactivate pathogens, the factors that affect disinfection performance, and how to monitor and maintain proper disinfectant residuals throughout the treatment and distribution systems. The webinar will also cover common operator calculations related to chlorine dosage, feed rates, residual concentrations, and contact time (CT). Real-world examples and calculation exercises will help operators strengthen their understanding and confidence in applying chlorine disinfection concepts in daily operations.
Seasonal Challenges, Smart Solutions Part 3: Aeration 101
Date and Time: September 17, 2026 at 12:00 PM to 01:00 PM (EDT)
REGISTER HERE
Aeration plays a critical role in maintaining healthy wastewater lagoon performance, particularly during periods of high temperatures, increased biological activity, and changing seasonal conditions. This one-hour webinar will introduce the fundamentals of lagoon aeration and explain how oxygen transfer supports biological treatment, odor control, and regulatory compliance.
Participants will learn the basic principles of aeration, common types of aeration equipment, factors that influence oxygen demand, and how aeration can improve lagoon treatment efficiency. The session will also discuss operational considerations, troubleshooting strategies, energy use, and approaches for optimizing aeration performance in lagoon systems.
Designed specifically for wastewater operators and managers, this webinar will provide practical guidance on understanding, evaluating, and managing aeration systems to support reliable lagoon operations year-round.
U.S. Department of Energy Industrial Water Reuse Webinar Series
Join the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and leading organizations for an interactive webinar series designed to explore the evolving landscape of industrial water reuse. This series will equip you with actionable frameworks to reduce freshwater footprints, lower operating costs, and navigate complex project economics. The next session will take place on Sept. 23, at 1:00 pm ET. Click here to register.
The series is organized into three distinct sections: Foundational Principles of Industrial Water Reduction and Reuse, Identifying and Implementing Water Reuse Projects Across Industry Sectors, and Strategies for Financing and Implementation. Because each session is designed as a standalone learning opportunity, you are welcome to attend the entire series or drop in for individual webinars that align with your specific interests and needs. Details for webinars in Sections 2 and 3 will be released as speakers are finalized.
Webinars are held monthly. Check out the full series schedule and sign up today!
EPA Office of Water Emergency Response and Cybersecurity (OWERC) Water-Sector Cybersecurity Events
Register for all sessions here:
- October 14: Natural Hazard Technical Assistance for Updating your Emergency Response Plan (EPA SWIFT initiative webinar)
U.S. Symposium on Harmful Algae – Travel Funding & Fee Waiver Opportunities
October 25-29, 2026; Cedar Rapids, IA
The U.S. Symposium on Harmful Algae focuses on enhancing our understanding of harmful algal blooms and their effects on aquatic ecosystems, public health, and communities. Through scientific sessions and specialized breakout discussions, participants will engage in conversations about emerging challenges, innovative approaches, and updates in HAB science, management, policy, and programs. This dynamic four-day event features plenary sessions, breakout discussions, and scientific poster presentations covering key topics such as bloom dynamics, monitoring and management, prevention and mitigation strategies, emerging technologies, community engagement, and modeling and forecasting. The primary goal is to facilitate knowledge sharing, address emerging issues, and drive progress toward effective HAB management. Attendees also value the many opportunities to network, connect with colleagues, and discuss the latest developments in the world of HABs. The 13th U.S. Symposium on Harmful Algae will take place on October 25-29, 2026 in Cedar Rapids, IA.
Water Sector Utility Case Studies for Building Resilience to Natural Hazards
Date and Time: Wednesday, December 9, 2026, 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm EST
REGISTER HERE
SWIFT technical assistance is tailored to meet the needs of each utility’s request, from building risk and resilience assessments, to updating emergency response plans, to quantifying the potential reductions in risk that specific resilience projects can deliver. Learn how water sector utilities are benefitting from SWIFT technical assistance. Hear directly from utility representatives across the country that have engaged in the process to build system resilience to various natural hazards.
For questions or additional information about the webinar, please email ramming.audrey@epa.gov.
Please note that continuing education units (CEUs) are not available for this webinar; however, supporting documentation can be provided to attendees who choose to approach their respective state agencies.
Building Winter Weather Resilience for Water Sector Utilities
Date and Time: Wednesday, January 13, 2027, 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm EST
REGISTER HERE
Ready for the winter season? SWIFT’s experts can provide customized technical assistance to help your utility build resilience to winter weather hazards through risk-informed project planning and investment. Review this winter’s seasonal outlook, learn about the SWIFT technical assistance experience, and explore tools that can help your utility better understand and assess system impacts and identify resilient solutions.
For questions or additional information about the webinar, please email ramming.audrey@epa.gov.
Please note that continuing education units (CEUs) are not available for this webinar; however, supporting documentation can be provided to attendees who choose to approach their respective state agencies.
Job Opportunities
Water Quality Standards Coordinator
Location: Salt Lake City, UT
Closing Date: September 6, 2026
For more information and to apply, visit Utah State Jobs.
Drinking Water Protection Specialist (Natural Resource Specialist 3)
Location: Portland, OR
Closing Date: September 7, 2026
For more information and to apply, visit Oregon Job Opportunities.
Water Resources Professional (TMDL Writer)
Location: Santa Fe, NM
Closing Date: September 11, 2026
Job ID #166955
NMED #34940
The Surface Water Quality Bureau is hiring a Water Resources Professional to help us further our mission to preserve, protect, and improve New Mexico’s surface water quality for present and future generations.
This position serves as a Water Resources Professional who supports the mission of the Surface Water Quality Bureau by developing Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) planning documents, assessing surface water quality data to develop the Clean Water Act (CWA) Impaired Waters List, and developing other water quality planning documents such as watershed-based plans. This position’s core responsibility is working interactively with other Bureau staff, stakeholders, tribal partners, other state and federal agencies, the NM Water Quality Control Commission, and the public to develop and present TMDL planning documents that ensure protection of surface water quality in New Mexico through the TMDL process.
If you are interested in applying, please visit NM’s Job Opportunities website to review the job posting and complete your application!
Contact: Heidi Henderson, TMDL and Assessment Team Supervisor, (505) 819-9986 or heidi.henderson@env.nm.gov
Environmental Analyst – Underground Storage Tanks and Technical Assistance Specialist
Location: Lowell, MA
Closing Date: September 13, 2026
Email your cover letter, resume, and a brief writing sample to jobs@neiwpcc.org by September 13, 2026. Please reference #26-Lowell-004 in the email subject line. Accepting applications until the position is filled. A full position description and benefits may be viewed at: https://neiwpcc.org/about-us/careers.
Assistant Environmental Analyst – Hudson River Stewardship Assistant
Location: Staatsburg, NY
Closing Date: September 20, 2026
To apply, send your cover letter and resume by email to jobs@neiwpcc.org by September 20, 2026. Reference #26-HRNERR-003 in the email subject line. Accepting applications until the position is filled. A full position description and benefits may be viewed at: https://neiwpcc.org/about-us/careers.
Manager, Office of Stormwater Permitting & Compliance
Location: Richmond, VA
Closing Date: Open Until Filled
This position leads DEQ’s construction and municipal stormwater programs. For a full position description and information on how to apply, please follow this link: Manager, Office of Stormwater Permitting and Compliance.
Environmental Analyst or Engineer – Training and Technical Assistance Specialist
Location: Lowell, MA
Closing Date: Open until filled
To apply, email your cover letter, resume, and a brief writing sample to jobs@neiwpcc.org. Please reference #26-Lowell-001 in the email subject line. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, accepting applications until the position is filled. A full position description and benefits may be viewed at: https://neiwpcc.org/about-us/careers.
Watershed Management Section Manager
Location: Thurston County – Lacey, WA
Closing Date: Continuous
If you’re interested in applying for this position or reading additional information, please follow this link:
Watershed Management Section Manager (WMS2)
Be sure to check out other opportunities on ACWA’s Job Opportunities page.
