Vermont Rural Water Association

Hydrants, Valves, Taps, and Meters
2024-09-24 09:00 - 12:30 (America/New_York) | EJP Office, 2318 Airport Rd, Barre, VT, United States
Description
This course will begin with a hands-on overview of hydrant and valve maintenance. The class will also discuss taps and meters, as well as maintenance, installation, and new technologies in the industry. The class is located at EJP’s Barre office and will utilize actual equipment and components to give participants an opportunity to practice disassembling and assembling hydrants and their components.
Credit
3 TCH (Water)
Instructors
Brian Burns and Mike Ganeun (EJP)
Proctor
Allison Smith (Vermont Rural Water Association)

Basic Wastewater Course
2024-09-26 08:00 - 2024-11-06 15:00 | National Life Complex, Dewey Building, 1 National Life Drive, Montpelier, VT, 05602, United States
Dates
Thursday, September 26
Tuesday, October 1 – on Zoom (beginning at 9 am)
Thursday, October 3
Thursday, October 10
Thursday, October 17
Thursday, October 24
Thursday, October 31
Wednesday, November 6
8 am to 3 pm each day (except October 1)
Description
This eight-session course will prepare attendees to take the Grades 1, 2, or 3 Domestic Wastewater certification exams, and is a great primer for those taking higher grade exams. Attendees will learn the basic concepts of wastewater treatment from collection system to final disposal of effluents and solids.
The course will be taught by Elijah Lemieux and Wayne Graham from the Vermont Rural Water Association, along with guest presenters to provide expertise on specific topics.
Textbook
The course is based on Operation of Wastewater Treatment Plants (Volume 1, 8th edition) by the Office of Water Programs. All students are required to have a copy of this book. You can purchase it for $100 when you register for this class.
Credit
47 TCH – Wastewater
Cost
$745 (with textbook)
$645 (no textbook)
Math Class
Students are encouraged to attend Basic Math for Water and Wastewater Operators. It will be offered on Friday, October 11 in Essex and Friday, October 18 in Rutland.
Register early! The maximum class size is 20.

Wastewater Microbiology: A Monitoring Program for Operators
2024-10-01 09:00 - 15:00 | Zoom, Zoom
Description
Learn the role of bacteria, protozoa and metazoa in the treatment process along with the conditions that allow them to do their best work of removing nutrients from wastewater. Topics will include microbiota identification, development of a wastewater microbiology monitoring program, how to foster system conditions that favor the growth of phosphorus-accumulating microorganisms (PAOs), and how to troubleshoot existing treatment system problems.
Credit
5 TCH (Wastewater)
Instructor
Toni Glymph
Proctor
Elijah Lemieux (Vermont Rural Water Association)

Leak Detection and Pipe Location, Repair, and Maintenance
2024-10-08 08:00 - 15:30 | Manchester Town Hall, 40 Jeff Williams Way, Manchester Center, VT, 05255, United States
Description
The first part of this class, taught by Eric Denslow of Eastcom Associates, will cover the basic theory of pipe locating for both water and sewer utilities including ground penetrating radar. It will help operators troubleshoot difficult locates, tools for locating plastic pipes, and when to use specific frequencies. In the leak detection portion of the class, participants will learn about the fundamentals of how leak detection surveys are performed and pinpointing water leaks in the system.
The afternoon portion will be taught by Peter Carpenter of Hymax and will review the latest fittings and services created for the water and wastewater industries. This includes but is not limited to: unique specialized large diameter (above 48”) fittings, dismantling joints, expansion joints, restrained fittings, flanged coupling adapters, transition couplings, and other fittings. Corrosion resistance has become a priority for components associated with any infrastructure project, so we will focus on this trend in pipe repair. Topics will also include application selection guides, restraint options and pipe repair statistics in the USA. This portion of the class will be formatted as an interactive educational experience.
Credit
6 TCH (Water & Wastewater)
Instructors
Eric Denslow (Eastcom Associates)
Peter Carpenter (Hymax)
Proctor
Allison Smith (Vermont Rural Water Association)
This class will also be offered on October 9 in Essex, VT. See https://vtruralwater.org/event/pipes-10-9/

Leak Detection and Pipe Location, Repair, and Maintenance
2024-10-09 08:00 - 15:30 | Essex Police Department, 145 Maple Street, Essex Junction, VT, 05452, United States
Description
The first part of this class, taught by Eric Denslow of Eastcom Associates, will cover the basic theory of pipe locating for both water and sewer utilities including ground penetrating radar. It will help operators troubleshoot difficult locates, tools for locating plastic pipes, and when to use specific frequencies. In the leak detection portion of the class, participants will learn about the fundamentals of how leak detection surveys are performed and pinpointing water leaks in the system.
The afternoon portion will be taught by Peter Carpenter of Hymax and will review the latest fittings and services created for the water and wastewater industries. This includes but is not limited to: unique specialized large diameter (above 48”) fittings, dismantling joints, expansion joints, restrained fittings, flanged coupling adapters, transition couplings, and other fittings. Corrosion resistance has become a priority for components associated with any infrastructure project, so we will focus on this trend in pipe repair. Topics will also include application selection guides, restraint options and pipe repair statistics in the USA. This portion of the class will be formatted as an interactive educational experience.
Credit
6 TCH (Water & Wastewater)
Instructors
Eric Denslow (Eastcom Associates)
Peter Carpenter (Hymax)
Proctor
Allison Smith (Vermont Rural Water Association)
This class will also be offered on October 8 in Manchester, VT. See https://vtruralwater.org/event/pipes-10-8/

Basic Math for Water and Wastewater Operators
2024-10-11 08:30 - 14:30 | Vermont Rural Water Association, 20 Susie Wilson Rd, Essex Junction, VT, 05452, United States
Description
This course covers basic math concepts that operators use frequently in their work and are most likely to appear on water and wastewater certification exams. These include conversions, perimeter, area, volume, PSI, elevation head, and detention time. If time permits, we will also cover flow and chemical dosage.
Attendees should bring their own calculator. If you are preparing to take a water or wastewater certification exam, know that only non-programmable calculators will be allowed during the exam. Graphing calculators and smartphones will not be allowed.
Credit
5 TCH (Water & Wastewater)
Instructor
Paula Jackson (Vermont Rural Water Association)

Basic Math for Water and Wastewater Operators
2024-10-18 08:30 - 14:30 | Rutland WWTP, 94 Greens Hill Lane, Rutland, VT, 05701, United States

Small Systems Class 2 Water Treatment Course
2024-10-22 09:00 - 2024-10-31 13:30 | Hybrid (Zoom & Essex), 20 Susie Wilson Rd, Essex Junction, VT, 05452, United States
Description
This course is designed for those who will be taking the Vermont Class 2 Water Operator Certification Exam. The four-session class provides an overview of how to operate a small public water system using groundwater as a source. Topics include the Safe Drinking Water Act requirements, source water sampling, well construction, source protection, water storage, distribution, hydraulics, cross-connections, safety, disinfection, treatment, and relevant math.
This class is not designed for the operators of Transient Non-Community Systems (TNCs).
Credit
16 TCH (Water)
Textbook
Introduction to Small Water Systems is recommended for this class. You can purchase it here for $60. Please purchase by October 14 to receive it by the first day of class.
Dates
Tuesday, October 22
Thursday, October 24
Tuesday, October 29
Thursday, October 31
9 am to 1:30 pm each day
Hybrid
Each session will be held in-person at our office in Essex and on Zoom. For each session, you will receive a Zoom link by email the day before class. Click here for more information about webinar trainings.
In-person address:
20 Susie Wilson Rd, Suite B
Essex Junction, VT 05452
Please park in lower lot, behind building. Handicap parking is available in upper lot by entrance.
Instructor
Tim Russo (Vermont Rural Water Association)
Exam
Those seeking a Class 2 water operator certification after completing this course are encouraged to sign up early to take an exam. There are two options:

Paper exams will be offered on Friday, November 1 in Montpelier and Rutland. Registration will be available starting on September 6 at https://dec.vermont.gov/water/drinking-water/public-water-system-operator-certification/public-water-system-operator-exams
Computer-based exams are offered by appointment in South Burlington and some PSI testing centers in other states. Learn more about computer exams here.

Comprehensive Water & Wastewater Chemistry with Jar Testing Basics
2024-10-23 08:00 - 15:00 | National Life Complex, Dewey Building, 1 National Life Drive, Montpelier, VT, 05602, United States
Description
This course will discuss all aspects of water chemistry, including pre-oxidation, coagulation, flocculation, pH control, disinfection, dewatering, and corrosion control. We will also cover jar testing basics, such as math for dilutions, parameter testing, and calculation of pump settings for scale up to production.
Credit
6 TCH (Water & Wastewater)
Instructor
Loren Swears (Slack Chemical Company)
Proctor
Elijah Lemieux (Vermont Rural Water Association)

Class 3 Exam Preparation
2024-10-28 08:30 - 13:00 | Hartford Area Career and Technical Center, 1 Gifford Rd, White River Junction, VT, United States
Description
This course is designed as a short review for the Class 3 water operator certification exam. We will review test-taking skills, exam questions, math problems, and general water system operations. You will have the chance to take a practice exam and go over the answers.
Credit
4 TCH (Water)
Instructor
Paula Jackson (Vermont Rural Water Association)

Class 4 Exam Preparation
2024-10-29 08:30 - 13:00 | Hartford Area Career and Technical Center, 1 Gifford Rd, White River Junction, VT, United States
Description
This course is designed as a short review for the Class 4 water operator certification exam. We will review test-taking skills, exam questions, math problems, and general water system operations. You will have the chance to take a practice exam and go over the answers.
Credit
4 TCH (Water)
Instructor
Paula Jackson (Vermont Rural Water Association)

Distribution Exam Preparation
2024-10-30 08:30 - 13:00 | Vermont Rural Water Association, 20 Susie Wilson Rd, Essex Junction, VT, 05452, United States
Description
This course is designed as a short review for the Vermont Water Distribution exam. We will review test-taking skills, exam questions, math problems, and general water system operations. You will have the chance to take a practice exam and go over the answers.
Credit
4 TCH (Water)
Instructor
Paula Jackson (Vermont Rural Water Association)

Water Treatment: Chlorination
2024-11-06 09:00 - 12:30 | Zoom, Zoom
Description
Both continuous chlorination and shock chlorination are integral parts of water treatment. Water systems operators should understand both of these concepts to ensure that public health is protected. This class will cover the following topics:

Chlorine chemistry
Breakpoint chlorination and how to achieve it
Sodium hypochlorite feed equipment and how to avoid feed pump malfunctions
Contamination events that warrant shock chlorination
Proper shock chlorination procedures
Shock chlorination of water storage tanks and distribution piping
Proper dechlorination methods and equipment

Credit
3 TCH (Water)
Instructor
Paula Jackson (Vermont Rural Water Association)
Proctor
Allison Smith (Vermont Rural Water Association)

Essential Practices and Technologies for Water Distribution
2024-11-12 09:00 - 12:30 | F.W. Webb, 80 Park Avenue, Williston, VT, United States
Description
This class is being taught by Troy Ebbighausen of F.W. Webb. Troy will share his vast experience of the water industry with a focus on distribution. The class will detail the essential duties of an operator, highlighting the importance of adhering to sanitary standards, such as disinfection of new installations and preventing cross-contamination. The session will cover best practices during emergencies and general operations, as well as the evolution of tools and equipment for increased efficiency. Safety protocols, including trenching safety and OSHA requirements, will be discussed. Attendees will learn to correctly identify fitted repair parts and handle the repair of aging water mains and service lines. Technological advancements—such as smart hydrant technology, which monitor and report hydrant conditions in real-time, as well as acoustic leak detection devices that pinpoint leaks before they become emergencies—will be introduced. Additionally, cellular water meter endpoints that provide real-time readings and alerts will be covered. This class is designed for both new and seasoned operators, showcasing various tools and technologies to facilitate the challenging work of water operations, particularly in distribution.
Credit
3 TCH (Water)
Instructor
Troy Ebbighausen (F.W. Webb)
Proctor
Allison Smith (Vermont Rural Water Association)

Corrosion Control
2024-11-14 09:00 - 12:30 | Zoom, Zoom
Description
This training will focus on distribution system corrosion and methods to combat it. Topics covered include: what is corrosion and what causes it, why some waters are more corrosive than others, problems caused by corrosion, lead and copper rules, and using phosphates and pH adjustment to combat corrosion.
Credit
3 TCH (Water)
Instructor
Paula Jackson (Vermont Rural Water Association)
Proctor
Allison Smith (Vermont Rural Water Association)

Water Distribution: Operation and Maintenance
2024-11-19 09:00 - 12:30 | Zoom, Zoom
Description
Water distribution systems require preventative maintenance to reduce the risk of equipment failure and provide safe drinking water to consumers. This class will discuss some of the maintenance basics, including valve exercising, flushing, pipe replacement, pipe rehabilitation, and storage tank inspection and cleaning.
Credit
3 TCH (Water)
Instructor
Paula Jackson (Vermont Rural Water Association)
Proctor
Allison Smith (Vermont Rural Water Association)

Water Storage Tank Design and Maintenance
2024-12-04 09:00 - 12:30 | Vermont Rural Water Association, 20 Susie Wilson Rd, Essex Junction, VT, 05452, United States
Description
This course will focus on the design and maintenance of water storage tanks. Participants will learn the types of water storage tanks, as well as materials and design requirements to consider when planning for the addition of a new water storage tank. Like any asset, water storage tanks require routine inspection and maintenance. The course will review best practices and disinfection requirements.
Credit
3 TCH (Water)
Instructor
Nate Pion (Champlain Water District)
Proctor
Allison Smith (Vermont Rural Water Association)

Real Control of the Activated Sludge Process
2024-12-05 09:00 - 15:00 | National Life Complex, Dewey Building, 1 National Life Drive, Montpelier, VT, 05602, United States
Description
This class will discuss the science and math behind the three principles guiding the control of the activated sludge process: (1) give the mixed liquor just the air it needs, where it needs it, when it needs it; (2) identify and maintain the minimum SRT TARGET that meets the effluent ammonia requirement and gives the best sludge quality; and (3) maintain the lowest RAS flow possible without overloading the secondary clarifier.
Credit
5 TCH (Wastewater)
Instructor
Eric Wahlberg (Wastewater Technology Trainers)
Proctor
Wayne Graham (Vermont Rural Water Association)

Traffic Control Certification
2024-12-10 09:00 - 13:30 | National Life Complex, Dewey Building, 1 National Life Drive, Montpelier, VT, 05602, United States
Description
This course will provide flaggers with the basic knowledge, information, and awareness to perform their jobs safely. After the lesson, attendees will be given a written certification exam. Those who successfully complete the course and pass the exam with a score of 80% or higher will receive a certificate to perform as a qualified flagger.
Credit
4 TCH (Water & Wastewater)
Instructor
Paul Sestito (Vermont Rural Water Association)
Proctor
Allison Smith (Vermont Rural Water Association)

Understanding the Basics of GIS and How to Make It Work for Your System
2024-12-12 09:00 - 12:30 | UVM Extension Berlin Office, 327 US Route 302, Suite 1, Berlin, VT, 05641, United States
PLEASE NOTE: This class has been moved to the UVM Extension Berlin Office instead of the National Life Complex as originally scheduled.
Description
GIS can seem intimidating to new users because of the infinite possibilities and uses it provides. This course reviews the basic components of GIS mapping while considering the three major questions that all systems need to address when deciding to move forward with GIS technology: (1) What information do you want available when accessing your map? (2) What level of editing and control do you want to have over the map? (3) How much money do you have in your budget to obtain the level of mapping functions you want?
Credit
3 TCH (Water & Wastewater)
Instructor
Elizabeth Emmons (Dufresne Group)
Proctor
Allison Smith (Vermont Rural Water Association)

Safety: Water and Wastewater Facility Flooding
2025-01-07 09:00 - 12:30 | Vermont Rural Water Association, 20 Susie Wilson Rd, Essex Junction, VT, 05452, United States
Description
Water and wastewater facilities face an increasing threat of flood events in Vermont. Flooding can cause major damage to facilities and assets and pose a safety hazard to all involved.
Knowing the safety hazards that may be present during flooding events and having a solid emergency response plan are key to reducing the risk of injury and fatalities. This class will map out preparations that water and wastewater facility operators can take to be better prepared for future flooding events.
Credit
3 TCH (Water & Wastewater)
Instructor
Paula Jackson (Vermont Rural Water Association)

OSHA 10-Hour General Industry Safety Training
2025-01-09 08:30 - 2025-01-10 14:30 | Manchester Town Hall, 40 Jeff Williams Way, Manchester Center, VT, 05255, United States
Description
This course follows the requirements to receive an OSHA 10 General Industry Safety card, issued by OSHA Region 1. The following topics will be taught during this two-day course:

Introduction to OSHA
Walking, working surfaces
Exit routes, emergency action plans, and fire prevention
Electrical safety
Personal protective equipment
Hazard communications
Hazardous materials
Hazardous materials handling
Fall protection
Machine guarding
Ergonomics
Bloodborne pathogens

Dates
Thursday, January 9 and Friday, January 10
8:30 am to 2:30 pm each day
Credit
10 TCH (Water & Wastewater)
Instructor
Paula Jackson (Vermont Rural Water Association)

Safety: Water and Wastewater Facility Flooding
2025-01-14 09:00 - 12:30 | Zoom, Zoom
Description
Water and wastewater facilities face an increasing threat of flood events in Vermont. Flooding can cause major damage to facilities and assets and pose a safety hazard to all involved.
Knowing the safety hazards that may be present during flooding events and having a solid emergency response plan are key to reducing the risk of injury and fatalities. This class will map out preparations that water and wastewater facility operators can take to be better prepared for future flooding events.
Webinar
The Zoom link will be emailed to you the day before class. Please join the Zoom meeting 5-10 minutes before class starts. Click here for more information about Zoom trainings.
Credit
3 TCH (Water & Wastewater)
Instructor
Paula Jackson (Vermont Rural Water Association)
Additional Sessions
This class will also be offered on January 7 in Essex, VT. Register here.

TNC Operations
2025-01-16 09:00 - 12:30 | Zoom, Zoom
Description
This course is designed for Transient Non-Community (TNC) Water System Operators. No matter what your experience as a water system operator, this course will help you better manage your system. The course will review the following topics: disinfecting your water system (UV and chlorine), sampling procedure and sampling schedules, sanitary survey review, common water system deficiencies, rules and regulations (current and upcoming rules), discussion of seasonal operations, basic site investigations.
For Class 1B operators, this course will fulfill the requirement to obtain 3 continuing education credits prior to renewal of your certification.
Credit
3 TCH (Water)
Instructor
Meredith Maskell (VT Drinking Water and Groundwater Protection Division)
Proctor
Tim Russo (Vermont Rural Water Association)

Corrosion Control: Alternatives to Phosphorus-Based Treatments
2025-01-16 09:00 - 12:30 | Brattleboro Fire Department, 103 Elliot St, Brattleboro, VT, 05301, United States
Description
This class addresses the complex challenges of managing corrosion, scale, and bacterial growth in drinking water systems. With increasing regulatory demands, utilities often face trade-offs between water quality, chemical usage, and compliance. We will explore innovative approaches to corrosion control that reduce reliance on phosphorus-based treatments, helping utilities meet evolving standards without compromising water quality or increasing phosphorus loads in wastewater influent.
Participants will learn about a novel equilibrium-blended phosphate solution that maintains water chemistry balance, optimizes corrosion control, and minimizes the formation of disinfection byproducts, all while lowering chemical costs. Through a live demonstration, we’ll examine corrosion processes, showcase how distribution system conditions affect treatment decisions, and discuss integrated strategies for improving chlorine stability, reducing lead and copper release, and meeting stringent regulatory limits. This session is ideal for water operators and professionals looking to enhance water quality management with sustainable, effective practices.
Credit
3 TCH (Water)
Instructor
Kevin Sullo (AquaSmart)
Proctor
Allison Smith (Vermont Rural Water Association)

Operation and Maintenance of Groundwater Systems
2025-01-21 09:00 - 12:30 | Zoom, Zoom
Description
Groundwater system operators have many tasks to accomplish to operate and maintain their water systems. We will review administrative tasks such as sampling and monitoring, consumer confidence reports, chemical monitoring waivers, source protection, operation and maintenance manuals, monthly operating reports, operator certification and sanitary surveys.
Operation and maintenance of groundwater sources is a very important part of providing safe drinking water to consumers. Ensuring sustainability by performing drawdown tests on groundwater wells will help you to know how sustainable your groundwater source is. Operating your disinfection system and understanding the chlorination process is key to providing safe water that consumers find palatable.
Water distribution systems can often be a contamination vulnerability. Maintenance items such as flushing, valve exercising, and hydrant maintenance are of the utmost importance.
Credit
3 TCH (Water)
Instructor
Paula Jackson (Vermont Rural Water Association)

Disaster Response Training
2025-01-22 09:00 - 15:30 | Association of General Contractors, 1 Graves St, Montpelier, VT, United States
Description
This training will guide communities in preparing and responding to emergencies, with a focus on safety and resilience for water and wastewater systems. Participants will learn essential skills and information to support their communities in the face of disasters.
Topics will include:

Safety – Learn situational awareness and operator and facility safety fundamentals, including potential hazards such as electrical issues, toxic gases, and structural damage, using recent flood events as real-world examples.
Mutual Aid Networks – Overview of the Vermont WARN mutual aid network and how to effectively partner with local and state emergency management teams.
Emergency Planning and Hazard Mitigation – Strategies for creating or strengthening emergency response plans at both the facility and community levels, with insights from recent disaster responses.
Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) – Key SOPs for pre- and post-disaster preparedness, including generator maintenance and communication protocols to support smooth operations during critical times.
Funding – USDA funding opportunities available for enhancing system capacity and resilience, especially for mitigating risks from disasters declared in 2022.

By the end of the session, participants will be equipped with practical tools and strategies to enhance the safety and resiliency of their facilities and be better prepared for efficient emergency response and recovery.
Lunch will be provided!
Credit
6 TCH (Water & Wastewater)
Instructors
Liz Royer (Vermont Rural Water Association)
Dan Whipple (Integrity Safety Consulting Services, LLC)
Sam Politi (Brook Field Service)
Brandi Thompson (USDA)
Additional Sessions
This class will be offered again on the following dates:
July 15, 2025 at Vermont State University – Randolph
December 11, 2025 at Williston Fire Department

Water Treatment: Filtration Processes
2025-01-28 09:00 - 12:30 | Zoom, Zoom
Description
Water filtration is one of the most important treatment processes for the removal of contaminants from drinking water. Groundwater and surface water treatment facilities may use filtration processes for the removal of pathogens, iron and manganese, PFAS, radionuclides, as well as taste and odor control. In this class, we will look at how filters work and how they should be operated and maintained.
Credit
3 TCH (Water)
Instructor
Paula Jackson (Vermont Rural Water Association)

Protecting Source Water in Forested Watersheds
2025-01-29 09:00 - 12:30 | Vermont Rural Water Association, 20 Susie Wilson Rd, Essex Junction, VT, 05452, United States
Description
Forests offer numerous benefits to source water quality for drinking water systems. However, a unique set of challenges may arise for water system personnel trying to manage and mitigate potential sources of contamination (PSOC) found in forested Source Protection Areas. This training will focus on two of the most common potential sources of contamination and disruption to systems located in rural, forested watersheds: logging and beavers.
Join Vermont Rural Water’s source water specialist, along with staff from the Vermont Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation and Vermont Department of Fish and Wildlife to learn more about Vermont’s land use history and how modern forest and wildlife management practices can help mitigate threats to drinking water quality, and how to implement them at your water system.
Credit
3 TCH (Water)
Instructors
Brad Roy (Vermont Rural Water Association)
Tyler Brown (Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department)
Silas Rainville (Vermont Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation)

Water Treatment: Coagulation
2025-02-04 09:00 - 12:30 | Zoom, Zoom
Description
Surface water may contain constituents such as pathogenic microorganisms, natural organic matter, and sometimes chemicals. Surface water may also have taste and odor issues. The coagulation process is an important part of removing these constituents. Enhanced coagulation in any surface water treatment facility should be a top priority. pH and alkalinity play an important role in the chemistry of coagulation as well as the flash mix. Enhanced coagulation optimizes pH and coagulant dosages to remove as much natural organic matter as possible.
Credit
3 TCH (Water)
Instructor
Paula Jackson (Vermont Rural Water Association)
