Vermont Rural Water Association

Issuing a Boil Water Notice
2026-02-20 09:00 - 12:30 (America/New_York) | Zoom, Zoom
Description
Issuing a Boil Water notice can be a complicated process, but could prevent negative health impacts to your water system’s consumers. It is important to be prepared in advance of an emergency by knowing when and how to issue a Boil Water notice—or even a Do Not Drink order.
This class will look at the reasons to issue a Boil Water notice, the procedures to determine if a notice is needed, and ways to make sure all affected consumers are notified.
This class encourages discussion from participants.
Credit
3 TCH (Water)
Instructor
Paula Jackson (Vermont Rural Water Association)

TNC Operations
2026-02-20 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)

Water Treatment: Chemical Addition
2026-02-24 09:00 - 12:30 | Zoom, Zoom
Description
When water treatment involves the addition of chemicals to drinking water, there are follow-up procedures to ensure proper dosage and effectiveness of the chemicals. This class will discuss the addition of sodium hypochlorite, soda ash, sodium hydroxide, orthophosphates, coagulants, and coagulant aids.
Credit
3 TCH (Water)
Instructor
Paula Jackson (Vermont Rural Water Association)

Safety: Water and Wastewater Facility Flooding
2026-02-26 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.
Credit
3 TCH (Water & Wastewater)
Instructor
Paula Jackson (Vermont Rural Water Association)

HazCom Compliance and Respiratory Protection
2026-03-04 09:00 - 12:30 | Zoom, Zoom
Description
Keep yourself and coworkers safe by gaining an understanding of the Hazard Communication Standard (HazCom) and respiratory protection safety standards from Vermont OSHA.
Credit
3 TCH (Water & Wastewater)
Water Treatment Category 3, Distribution Category 1 | Learn more
Cost
$24 Member
$48 Non-member
Instructor
Miriam Owens (Vermont Occupational and Health Administration)
Proctor
Elijah Lemieux (Vermont Rural Water Association)

Basic Math for Water and Wastewater Operators
2026-03-05 08:30 - 14:30 | National Life Complex, Dewey Building, 1 National Life Drive, Montpelier, VT, 05602, 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.
Are we selling the same book for $40?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.
Textbook
Math Handbook for Water System Operators by Bob Larsen is required for all students. You can purchase this book along with your registration for $40. Books will be distributed at the beginning of class.
Credit
5 TCH (Water & Wastewater)
Water Treatment Category 3, Distribution Category 3 | Learn more
Instructor
Paula Jackson (Vermont Rural Water Association)

PFAS & Water Supply Rule
2026-03-10 09:00 - 12:30 | Zoom, Zoom
Description
Members of the Drinking Water and Groundwater Protection Division will be going over recent changes to the Vermont Water Supply Rule involving the regulation of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) that go into effect on January 1, 2026. This will include discussion on changes to sampling requirements, the new MCLs, and how systems achieve and maintain compliance with the regulation.
Credit
3 TCH (Water)
Treatment Category 1, Distribution Category 1 | Learn more
Instructor
Ben Montross & DWGPD staff
Proctor
Tim Russo (Vermont Rural Water Association)
CLASS FULL
This class will also be offered on April 21. Register here.

Class 4 Water Certification Exam Preparation Course
2026-03-10 09:00 - 2026-04-23 12:30 | Combined (Zoom & In-Person), Zoom & In-Person
Dates & Locations
Tuesday, March 10 – 9 am to 12:30 pm on Zoom
Thursday, March 12 – 9 am to 12:30 pm on Zoom
Tuesday, March 17 – 9 am to 12:30 pm on Zoom
Thursday, March 19 – 9 am to 12:30 pm on Zoom
Tuesday, March 24 – 9 am to 12:30 pm on Zoom
Thursday, March 26 – 9 am to 12:30 pm on Zoom
Tuesday, March 31 – 9 am to 12:30 pm on Zoom
Thursday, April 2 – 8:30 am to 3:30 pm at Essex Police Department (145 Maple St, Essex Junction)
Thursday, April 9 – 8:30 am to 3:30 pm at Dewey Conference Room (1 National Life Dr, Montpelier)
Tuesday, April 14 – 9 am to 12:30 pm on Zoom
Thursday, April 16 – 9 am to 12:30 pm on Zoom
Tuesday, April 21 – 9 am to 12:30 pm on Zoom
Thursday, April 23 – 8:30 am to 3:30 pm at Hartford Area Technical Center (1 Gifford Rd, White River Junction)
Description
This multi-week course is designed for those training to become a Class 4 water treatment operator. All aspects of water operations are covered to prepare you to take the certification exams. You are expected to attend all class sessions.
Textbooks
The following books are required for all students:
Water Treatment Plant Operation, Volume 1 (Office of Water Programs, Sacramento State) – $100
Water System Operations Water Treatment, Grade 2 (American Water Works Association) – $86
This book is recommended:
Water Operator Certification Exam Prep (American Water Works Association) – $106
Click the links above to purchase each book. Please purchase by February 24 to allow time for shipping.
Credit
48 TCH (Water)
Treatment Category 1 & 2, Distribution Category 1 & 2 | Learn more
Instructor
Paula Jackson (Vermont Rural Water Association)
Exam
Find information about the Class 4 Certification Exam at https://dec.vermont.gov/water/drinking-water/public-water-system-operator-certification/public-water-system-operator-exams
Additional Classes
Students are encouraged to take Basic Math for Water and Wastewater Operators on March 5. Register here.

Traffic Control Certification
2026-03-11 09:00 - 13:30 | Brattleboro Fire Department, 103 Elliot St, Brattleboro, VT, 05301, 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)
Water Treatment Category 3, Distribution Category 1 | Learn more
Instructor
Tim Russo (Vermont Rural Water Association)

Basic Wastewater Course
2026-03-12 08:00 - 2026-04-30 15:00 | Chester Public Safety Building, 130 Pleasant St, Chester, VT, 05143, United States
Dates & Locations
Thursday, March 12
Thursday, March 19
Tuesday, March 24 – 9 am to 12: 15 pm on Zoom
Thursday, March 26
Thursday, April 2
Tuesday, April 7 – 9 am to 12: 15 pm on Zoom
Thursday, April 9
Thursday, April 16
Thursday, April 23 – 9 am to 3 pm on Zoom
Thursday, April 30
8 am to 3 pm unless otherwise noted
Description
This 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.
Credit
53 TCH – Wastewater
Cost
$850 (with textbook)
$750 (no textbook)
Register early! The maximum class size is 20.

Advanced WW Series: Understanding Digester Operations
2026-03-16 09:00 - 12:30 | Zoom, Zoom
Description
The objectives of this class are to:

Provide a general background necessary to understand how anaerobic digesters work.
Present routine operational techniques and monitoring parameters for process control.
Understand how to solve digester operational problems and how to identify potential problems.

Credit
3 TCH (Wastewater)
Instructor
Toni Glymph
Proctor
Elijah Lemieux (Vermont Rural Water Association)
Advanced Wastewater Treatment Series
This class is part of the Advanced Wastewater Treatment Series. Classes in this series are intended for experienced wastewater operators. It is recommended that you have attended the Basic Wastewater Course, passed a wastewater certification exam, and/or worked a number of years at a wastewater treatment facility before taking these advanced classes.
These classes are designed for operators who are looking to enhance their understanding of wastewater treatment; preparing for a Grade 3, 4, or 5 wastewater exam; or seeking a management position at a wastewater treatment facility. There is no formal enrollment in the Advanced Wastewater Treatment Series—just sign up for each class you want to take. These classes will have “Advanced WW Series” in the title. Find more information here.

Model Sewer Use Ordinance (SUO) and Fats, Oils, and Grease (FOG) Guidance
2026-03-18 09:00 - 12:30 | Association of General Contractors, 1 Graves St, Montpelier, VT, United States
Description
This will be a two-part class that reviews Sewer Use Ordinances (SUO) and Fats, Oils and Grease (FOG). The first part of this training will address Sewer Use Ordinances (SUO) by discussing the format and requirements that should be included in a strong SUO and providing example conditions and language to consider when updating your ordinance. Randy Bean has developed a model SUO that wastewater systems and municipalities can use as a template for developing their own ordinance. This template will be shared during class.
The second part of the training will present information on Fats, Oils and Grease (FOG). This will include information on best management practices for FOG control, sizing of interceptors, the generation of FOG by various users, inspections and maintenance of interceptors, and methods to control the discharge of FOG into your collection system.
Credit
3 TCH (Wastewater)
Instructor
Randy Bean
Proctor
Wayne Graham (Vermont Rural Water Association)

Distribution Certification Exam Preparation Course
2026-03-18 09:00 - 2026-04-24 12:30 | Combined (Zoom & Essex), 20 Susie Wilson Rd, Suite B, Essex Junction, VT, 05452, United States
Dates & Locations
Wednesday, March 18 – 9 am to 12:30 pm on Zoom
Friday, March 20 – 9 am to 12:30 pm on Zoom
Wednesday, March 25 – 8:30 am to 3:30 pm at Vermont Rural Water Association (20 Susie Wilson Rd, Suite B, Essex Junction)
Wednesday, April 1 – 9 am to 12:30 pm on Zoom
Friday, April 3 – 9 am to 12:30 pm on Zoom
Wednesday, April 8 – 8:30 am to 3:3 at Vermont Rural Water Association (20 Susie Wilson Rd, Suite B, Essex Junction)
Thursday, April 16 – 9 am to 12:30 pm on Zoom
Friday, April 17 – 9 am to 12:30 pm on Zoom
Friday, April 24 – 8:30 am to 3:3 at Vermont Rural Water Association (20 Susie Wilson Rd, Suite B, Essex Junction)
Description
This multi-week course is designed for those preparing to take the Distribution (Class D) Certification Exam. Topics will include all aspects of distribution systems, as well as hydraulics, water chemistry, water mathematics, and sampling procedures. You are expected to attend all class sessions.
Textbooks
The following books are required for all students:
Water Distribution System Operation and Maintenance (Office of Water Programs, Sacramento State) – $100
Water System Operations Water Distribution, Grades 1 & 2 (American Water Works Association) – $96
This book is recommended:
Water Operator Certification Exam Prep (American Water Works Association) – $106
Click the links above to purchase books. Please purchase by March 4.
Credit
36 TCH (Water)
Treatment Category 1 & 2, Distribution Category 1 & 2 | Learn more
Instructor
Paula Jackson (Vermont Rural Water Association)
Exam
Find information about the Distribution Certification Exam at https://dec.vermont.gov/water/drinking-water/public-water-system-operator-certification/public-water-system-operator-exams
Additional Classes
Students are encouraged to take Basic Math for Water and Wastewater Operators on March 5. Register here.

Corrosion Control: Alternatives to Phosphorus-Based Treatments
2026-03-19 09:00 - 12:30 | Essex Police Department, 145 Maple Street, Essex Junction, VT, 05452, 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)
Treatment Category 2, Distribution Category 2 | Learn more
Instructor
Kevin Sullo (AquaSmart)
Proctor
Allison Smith (Vermont Rural Water Association)

Class 3 Water Certification Exam Preparation Course
2026-03-24 09:00 - 2026-04-23 12:30 | Combined (Zoom & In-Person), Zoom & In-Person
Dates & Locations
Tuesday, March 24 – 9 am to 12:30 pm on Zoom
Thursday, March 26 – 9 am to 12:30 pm on Zoom
Tuesday, March 31 – 9 am to 12:30 pm on Zoom
Thursday, April 2 – 8:30 am to 3:30 pm at Essex Police Department (145 Maple St, Essex Junction)
Thursday, April 9 – 8:30 am to 3:30 pm at Dewey Conference Room (1 National Life Dr, Montpelier)
Tuesday, April 14 – 9 am to 12:30 pm on Zoom
Thursday, April 16 – 9 am to 12:30 pm on Zoom
Tuesday, April 21 – 9 am to 12:30 pm on Zoom
Thursday, April 23 – 8:30 am to 3:30 pm at Hartford Area Technical Center (1 Gifford Rd, White River Junction)
Description
This multi-week course is designed for those training to become a Class 3 water treatment operator. All aspects of water operations are covered to prepare you to take the certification exams. You are expected to attend all class sessions.
Textbooks
The following books are required for all students:
Small Water System Operation and Maintenance (Office of Water Programs, Sacramento State) – $100 – Purchase Here
Water System Operations Water Treatment, Grade 2 (American Water Works Association) – $86 – Purchase Here

This book is recommended:
Water Operator Certification Exam Prep (American Water Works Association) – $106 – Purchase Here
Books can be purchased at https://vtruralwater.org/training/textbooks/. Please purchase books by March 10 to allow time for shipping!
Credit
36 TCH (Water)
Treatment Category 1 & 2, Distribution Category 1 & 2 | Learn more
Instructor
Paula Jackson (Vermont Rural Water Association)
Exam
Find information about the Class 3 Certification Exam at https://dec.vermont.gov/water/drinking-water/public-water-system-operator-certification/public-water-system-operator-exams
Additional Classes
Students are encouraged to take Basic Math for Water and Wastewater Operators on March 5. Register here.

TNC Operations
2026-03-25 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)
Treatment Category 1, Distribution Category 1 | Learn more
Instructor
Meredith Maskell (VT Drinking Water and Groundwater Protection Division)
Proctor
Tim Russo (Vermont Rural Water Association)

Coagulation, Jar Testing, and Chemical Handling
2026-04-07 09:00 - 12:30 | National Life Complex, Dewey Building, 1 National Life Drive, Montpelier, VT, 05602, United States
Description
In this class, participants will receive an overview of coagulation, including concepts like charge neutralization and flocculation. We will review the different types of coagulants and discuss how to choose which coagulant is best suited for your facility. The instructor will also cover chemical handling and storage and chemical delivery. The second half of the class will provide a demonstration of jar testing procedures.
Credit
3 TCH (Water & Wastewater)
Water Treatment Category 2, Distribution Category 2 | Learn more
Instructor
Jon-Luc Goodrich and Jake Tietgens (Holland Company)
Proctor
Allison Smith (Vermont Rural Water Association)

State Revolving Funds for Drinking Water, Wastewater, and Stormwater
2026-04-14 09:00 - 12:00 | Association of General Contractors, 1 Graves St, Montpelier, VT, United States
Description
This training will provide an overview of the Clean Water and Drinking Water State Revolving Funding (CWSRF and DWSRF) financing programs, with a focus on the administrative and financial aspects of these programs. Participants will develop a working knowledge of these SRF programs and learn about eligible borrowers and project types under both the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund and the Clean Water State Revolving Fund. The session will cover planning, design, and construction loans available through these low-interest and heavily subsidized water infrastructure funding programs, including the role of asset management in project development.
The training will also explain the SRF annual funding cycle, including the development and use of the Intended Use Plans (IUPs) and project priority lists for competitive funding. Attendees will gain an understanding of how to use these Federal funding programs offered by the DEC’s Water Infrastructure Finance Program to fund their community’s drinking water, wastewater, and stormwater funding needs. An overview of the State’s Pollution Control (PC) Grant program will be provided. Additionally, the course will outline the eligibility requirements, necessary documentations and approvals required for a complete loan application.
Credit
2.5 TCH (Water & Wastewater)
Water Treatment Category 1, Distribution Category 2 | Learn more
Instructors
Tom Brown, Amy Galford, Sarah Bayer, Katie Parrish (DEC Water Investment Division)
Proctor
Liz Royer (Vermont Rural Water Association)

Small Systems Class 2 Water Treatment Course
2026-04-14 09:00 - 2026-04-23 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)
Treatment Category 1 & 2, Distribution Category 1 & 2 | Learn more
Textbook
Introduction to Small Water Systems is recommended for this class. You can purchase it here for $60. Please purchase by April 6 to receive it by the first day of class.
Dates
Tuesday, April 14
Thursday, April 16
Wednesday, April 22
Thursday, April 23
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, May 1 in Montpelier and Rutland. The registration deadline is April 3. Register 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.

PFAS & Water Supply Rule
2026-04-21 09:00 - 12:30 | Zoom, Zoom
Description
Members of the Drinking Water and Groundwater Protection Division will be going over recent changes to the Vermont Water Supply Rule involving the regulation of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) that go into effect on January 1, 2026. This will include discussion on changes to sampling requirements, the new MCLs, and how systems achieve and maintain compliance with the regulation.
Credit
3 TCH (Water)
Treatment Category 1, Distribution Category 1 | Learn more
Instructor
Ben Montross & DWGPD staff
Proctor
Tim Russo (Vermont Rural Water Association)
Additional Sessions
Thursday, June 4 – Register Here
Wednesday, July 22 – Register Here
Tuesday, August 4 – Register Here

Wastewater Operator’s Guide to NPDES Permits and Facility Inspections
2026-04-22 08:30 - 12:00 | National Life Complex, Dewey Building, 1 National Life Drive, Montpelier, VT, 05602, United States
Description
This class will cover frequently asked questions about permits, how to review your renewed permit and fact sheet, a brief summary of permit changes based on EPA’s 2021 review of the program and the Vermont Water Quality Standards updated in 2022, and common questions/issues with the nForm. We will also go over the state process for inspecting wastewater treatment facilities, pump stations, and collection systems. Learn how to be prepared for an inspection, including paperwork that you will need to have available.
Credit
3 TCH (Wastewater)
Instructor
Michelle Kovarie and John Merrifield, and Wastewater Management Program staff
Proctor
Elijah Lemieux (Vermont Rural Water Association)

Wastewater Microbiology: A Monitoring Program for Operators
2026-04-23 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)

First Aid, CPR, AED
2026-04-23 13:00 - 16:30 | Lyndon Public Safety Facility, 316 Main St, Lyndonville, VT, 05851, United States
Description
This American Heart Association Heartsaver® First Aid Adult & Child CPR AED course is designed for individuals with little or no medical training who need a course completion card for job or regulatory requirements, such as OSHA, or for those who simply want to be prepared to respond in an emergency.
Tailored to water and wastewater operators, the comprehensive Heartsaver® Total course meets regulatory standards. Topics include scene assessment and safety, medical and injury emergencies, environmental emergencies, adult and child CPR, AED use, and relief from choking, with the option to include infant CPR. Upon successful completion, participants will receive a two-year American Heart Association certification card.
Credit
3 TCH (Water & Wastewater)
Water Treatment Category 3, Distribution Category 1 | Learn more
Instructor
Tamara McLaughlin (VT Safety Net)
Proctor
Allison Smith (Vermont Rural Water Association)
CLASS CANCELLED
This class will be offered again on May 5 in Williston. Register here: https://vtruralwater.org/event/first-aid-may5/

Class 3 Practice Exam
2026-04-28 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 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)
Treatment Category 3, Distribution Category 3 | Learn more
Instructor
Paula Jackson (Vermont Rural Water Association)

Class 4 Practice Exam
2026-04-29 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 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)
Treatment Category 3, Distribution Category 3 | Learn more
Instructor
Paula Jackson (Vermont Rural Water Association)

Distribution Practice Exam
2026-04-30 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)
Treatment Category 3, Distribution Category 3 | Learn more
Instructor
Paula Jackson (Vermont Rural Water Association)

First Aid, CPR, AED
2026-05-05 09:00 - 12:30 | Courtyard Williston, 177 Hurricane Ln, Williston, VT, United States
Description
This American Heart Association Heartsaver® First Aid Adult & Child CPR AED course is designed for individuals with little or no medical training who need a course completion card for job or regulatory requirements, such as OSHA, or for those who simply want to be prepared to respond in an emergency.
Tailored to water and wastewater operators, the comprehensive Heartsaver® Total course meets regulatory standards. Topics include scene assessment and safety, medical and injury emergencies, environmental emergencies, adult and child CPR, AED use, and relief from choking, with the option to include infant CPR. Upon successful completion, participants will receive a two-year American Heart Association certification card.
Credit
3 TCH (Water & Wastewater)
Water Treatment Category 3, Distribution Category 1 | Learn more
Instructor
Tamara McLaughlin (VT Safety Net)
Proctor
Allison Smith (Vermont Rural Water Association)

Operation and Maintenance of Groundwater Systems
2026-05-07 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)
Treatment Category 2, Distribution Category 2 | Learn more
Instructor
Paula Jackson (Vermont Rural Water Association)

2026 Conference
2026-05-14 08:00 - 15:00 | Lake Morey Resort, 82 Clubhouse Rd, Fairlee, VT, United States
Vermont Rural Water’s 2026 Conference will include a trade show, luncheon, and trainings (earn up to 3.5 TCH for water and/or wastewater). A tentative schedule is available here.
Class Topics:

SCADA Doesn’t Have to Break the Bank – EOS Research
Crisis Communications – Water PIO
Choosing & Maintaining HDPE Infrastructure – FW Webb
Metering Technology to Solve Non-Revenue Water – EJP
Drinking Water Regulatory Updates – DWGPD
Wastewater Regulatory Updates – Wastewater Management Program
Drought Response & Emergency Response – VEM & DEC
Combating Cyber Threats – FBI & VIC

Cost
$90 Member
$140 Non-member
Additional Activities
Vermont Drinking Water Week will be hosting the 2026 Water Taste Test during the conference. To participate, submit an entry form by May 1 and deliver one gallon of water to the Taste Test table in the lobby by 9 am on May 14.
Taste Test Rules
Entry Form (PDF)
Entry Form (Word doc)
There will be a Golf Tournament on Wednesday, May 13. Learn more and register here.
New this year! There will be a friendly Cornhole Tournament starting at 1:30 pm on Wednesday, May 13. No registration is required, just come to the golf pro shop (179 Clubhouse Rd) at 1 pm. There is a $5 entry fee per player (cash or check).
To exhibit in the Trade Show, click here.
To sponsor the conference, click here.
Sponsored by:

Personal Protective Equipment, Ladder, and Electrical Safety
2026-05-19 09:00 - 12:30 | Zoom, Zoom
Description
This class will cover several safety considerations for water and wastewater personnel. First, we will look at new and improved personal protective equipment (PPE). Falls are the second highest cause of workplace fatality across the nation, so we will discuss ladder safety at home and in the workplace. Water and wastewater operators work on and around electrical equipment at their facilities. This class focuses on the electrical safety measures that should be in place at your facility.
Credit
3 TCH (Water & Wastewater)
Water Treatment Category 3, Distribution Category 1 | Learn more
Instructor
Paula Jackson (Vermont Rural Water Association)
