Oregon Association of Water Utilities is a nonprofit, independent association of water and wastewater utilities. OAWU was formed in 1977 to represent water utilities’ interests in the state legislature and provide onsite technical assistance. OAWU is a state affiliate of the National Rural Water Association. NRWA is one of America’s largest and strongest voices for rural and small systems, representing over 27,000 water and wastewater members.
OAWU offers on-site assistance in many areas, including Safe Drinking Water Act and Clean Water Act regulations, water treatment technology, distribution system operation and maintenance, and wastewater treatment and collection. The association also provides assistance with management issues, such as, rate structures and reviews, funding programs, budgeting and public relations. In addition, members receive the quarterly magazine H2Oregon, legislative updates, and discounts on training seminars and annual meeting registration.