Vermont Rural Water Association

Water & Wastewater System Maintenance
2026-01-28 08:30 - 15:30 (America/New_York) | Manchester Town Hall, 40 Jeff Williams Way, Manchester Center, VT, 05255, United States
Description
This course provides a practical overview of routine maintenance and troubleshooting essentials for drinking water and wastewater systems. Participants will learn best practices for inspecting and maintaining storage tanks, including structural and sanitary considerations. The class will also cover pump operation and upkeep, meter technologies and accuracy checks, and proven methods for identifying and repairing leaks in the distribution system. Operators will gain knowledge to improve system performance, extend the life of critical assets, and reduce unaccounted-for water loss. This training is designed to support operators of all experience levels.
In the afternoon, you can choose between two breakout sessions:

Meters and Leak Detection (water credit only)
Advanced Chemical Feed Pumps (water and wastewater credit)

Credit
6 TCH (Water & Wastewater)
Instructor
Sam Cavallaro (Ti-SALES)
Proctor
Allison Smith (Vermont Rural Water Association)

Traffic Control Certification
2026-02-03 09:00 - 13:30 | Vermont Rural Water Association, 20 Susie Wilson Rd, Essex Junction, VT, 05452, 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
Tim Russo (Vermont Rural Water Association)
CLASS FULL
This class will be offered again on March 11 in Brattleboro – Register here

Updating Your Source Protection Plan
2026-02-05 09:00 - 12:30 | National Life Complex, Davis Buildling, 1 National Life Dr, Montpelier, VT, 05602, United States
Class Description
Join staff from the State of Vermont Drinking Water and Groundwater Protection Division and Vermont Rural Water Association to learn the why and how of developing a Source Protection Plan and plan updates. This training focuses on developing the basic plan components required under the VT Water Supply Rule and the tools and resources available to help prepare your water system’s Source Protection Plan or Source Protection Plan Update. An introduction to the ANR Natural Resources Atlas mapping tool and the Department of Environmental Conservation Searchable Databases are provided. Participants are shown how to use the ANR NR Atlas to create maps for use in the plan document and for landowner notifications as well as performing a search for records related to potential sources of contamination and well completion reports.
Class Credit
3 TCH (Water)
Instructor
Laura Ranker (VT Drinking Water and Groundwater Protection Division)
Brad Roy (Vermont Rural Water Association)
Proctor
Tim Russo (Vermont Rural Water Association)
Location
The class will be located on the second floor of the Davis Building in the Catamount Conference Room (D215).

Wastewater Exam
2026-02-10 08:45 - 12:00 | Rutland Rec & Parks – Courcelle Building, 16 North Street Extension, Rutland, VT, 05701, United States
Licensing exams for all levels of Vermont domestic and industrial (dairy, metal, paper) pollution abatement facility operators. The exam will be administered on a laptop. There are 10 spots available per session. Registration closes on January 23. Refunds will not be given for cancellations within two weeks of the exam date. Payment must be received by the exam date. No-shows will be charged the full fee.
What to expect:

Please arrive by 8:45 am. The exam will start promptly at 9 am.
You will be provided with a laptop, mouse, calculator, ABC formula sheet, scratch paper, pencil, and earplugs. You may bring your own calculator as long as it is silent and non-programmable without alphabetic keypads or printing capabilities.
Bring a government-issued ID that shows your name and photograph.
You will not be allowed to have personal items with you during the exam. Coats, hats, and bags should be left in your vehicle or a designated spot outside of the exam room. You will be given a bag to store your cellphone, wallet, and keys during the exam. Cellphones/pagers must be silenced or powered off.
Eating, drinking, or smoking is not permitted in the exam room.
You may take a break whenever you wish, but you will not be allowed additional time to make up for time lost during breaks. During breaks, you are permitted to leave the exam room to use the bathroom. However, you are not permitted to leave the building (including for smoking). Each break cannot exceed 10 minutes.
Results will be emailed to the email address you provide when you register. By registering for this exam, you consent to have your results shared with Office of Professional Regulation (OPR), the Wastewater Management Program, and Vermont Rural Water.

Web-based testing at Vermont Rural Water’s office.

Source Protection Plan and Guidance Doc
2026-02-10 09:00 - 12:30 | National Life Complex, Davis Buildling, 1 National Life Dr, Montpelier, VT, 05602, United States
Class Description
Join staff from the State of Vermont Drinking Water and Groundwater Protection Division and Vermont Rural Water Association to take a deeper dive into the identification and assessment of actual and potential sources of contamination that can pose a risk to your drinking water source(s). Learn about a variety of strategies and actions that the water system and others can implement to protect the water source(s) using real case studies and examples from active water systems. Learn how to create a Potential Sources of Contamination Source Protection Area Map using the ANR Natural Resources Atlas mapping tool for inclusion in the water system’s Source Protection Plan or Plan Update.
Class Credit
3 TCH (Water)
Instructor
Laura Ranker (VT Drinking Water and Groundwater Protection Division)
Brad Roy (Vermont Rural Water Association)
Proctor
Tim Russo (Vermont Rural Water Association)
Location
The class will be located on the fourth floor of the Davis Building in the Orange Conference Room (D413).

Wastewater Exam
2026-02-10 12:45 - 16:00 | Rutland Rec & Parks – Courcelle Building, 16 North Street Extension, Rutland, VT, 05701, United States
Licensing exams for all levels of Vermont domestic and industrial (dairy, metal, paper) pollution abatement facility operators. The exam will be administered on a laptop. There are 10 spots available per session. Registration closes on January 23. Refunds will not be given for cancellations within two weeks of the exam date. Payment must be received by the exam date. No-shows will be charged the full fee.
What to expect:

Please arrive by 12:45 pm. The exam will start promptly at 1 pm.
You will be provided with a laptop, mouse, calculator, ABC formula sheet, scratch paper, pencil, and earplugs. You may bring your own calculator as long as it is silent and non-programmable without alphabetic keypads or printing capabilities.
Bring a government-issued ID that shows your name and photograph.
You will not be allowed to have personal items with you during the exam. Coats, hats, and bags should be left in your vehicle or a designated spot outside of the exam room. You will be given a bag to store your cellphone, wallet, and keys during the exam. Cellphones/pagers must be silenced or powered off.
Eating, drinking, or smoking is not permitted in the exam room.
You may take a break whenever you wish, but you will not be allowed additional time to make up for time lost during breaks. During breaks, you are permitted to leave the exam room to use the bathroom. However, you are not permitted to leave the building (including for smoking). Each break cannot exceed 10 minutes.
Results will be emailed to the email address you provide when you register. By registering for this exam, you consent to have your results shared with Office of Professional Regulation (OPR), the Wastewater Management Program, and Vermont Rural Water.

Web-based testing at Vermont Rural Water’s office.

PFAS & Water Supply Rule
2026-02-12 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)
Instructor
Ben Montross & DWGPD staff
Proctor
Tim Russo (Vermont Rural Water Association)
CLASS FULL
This class will be offered again on the following dates:
March 10 – Waitlist
April 21 – Register here

Corrosion Control
2026-02-18 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)

Wastewater Exam
2026-02-19 08:45 - 12:00 | Vermont Rural Water Association, 20 Susie Wilson Rd, Essex Junction, VT, 05452, United States
Licensing exams for all levels of Vermont domestic and industrial (dairy, metal, paper) pollution abatement facility operators. The exam will be administered on a laptop.
Registration closes on February 3. Refunds will not be given for cancellations within two weeks of the exam date. No-shows will be charged the full fee.
You do not need to get approval from the Office of Professional Regulations (OPR) before testing.
What to expect:

Please arrive by 8:45 am. The exam will start promptly at 9 am.
You will be provided with a laptop, mouse, calculator, ABC formula sheet, scratch paper, pencil, and earplugs. You may bring your own calculator as long as it is silent and non-programmable without alphabetic keypads or printing capabilities.
Bring a government-issued ID that shows your name and photograph.
You will not be allowed to have personal items with you during the exam. Coats, hats, and bags should be left in your vehicle or a designated spot outside of the exam room. You will be given a bag to store your cellphone, wallet, and keys during the exam. Cellphones/pagers must be silenced or powered off.
Eating, drinking, or smoking is not permitted in the exam room.
You may take a break whenever you wish, but you will not be allowed additional time to make up for time lost during breaks. During breaks, you are permitted to leave the exam room to use the bathroom. However, you are not permitted to leave the building (including for smoking). Each break cannot exceed 10 minutes.
Results will be emailed to the email address you provide when you register. By registering for this exam, you consent to have your results shared with Office of Professional Regulation (OPR), the Wastewater Management Program, and Vermont Rural Water.

Wastewater Exam
2026-02-19 12:45 - 16:00 | Vermont Rural Water Association, 20 Susie Wilson Rd, Essex Junction, VT, 05452, United States
Licensing exams for all levels of Vermont domestic and industrial (dairy, metal, paper) pollution abatement facility operators. The exam will be administered on a laptop.
Registration closes on February 3. Refunds will not be given for cancellations within two weeks of the exam date. No-shows will be charged the full fee.
You do not need to get approval from the Office of Professional Regulations (OPR) before testing.
What to expect:

Please arrive by 12:45 pm. The exam will start promptly at 1 pm.
You will be provided with a laptop, mouse, calculator, ABC formula sheet, scratch paper, pencil, and earplugs. You may bring your own calculator as long as it is silent and non-programmable without alphabetic keypads or printing capabilities.
Bring a government-issued ID that shows your name and photograph.
You will not be allowed to have personal items with you during the exam. Coats, hats, and bags should be left in your vehicle or a designated spot outside of the exam room. You will be given a bag to store your cellphone, wallet, and keys during the exam. Cellphones/pagers must be silenced or powered off.
Eating, drinking, or smoking is not permitted in the exam room.
You may take a break whenever you wish, but you will not be allowed additional time to make up for time lost during breaks. During breaks, you are permitted to leave the exam room to use the bathroom. However, you are not permitted to leave the building (including for smoking). Each break cannot exceed 10 minutes.
Results will be emailed to the email address you provide when you register. By registering for this exam, you consent to have your results shared with Office of Professional Regulation (OPR), the Wastewater Management Program, and Vermont Rural Water.

Issuing a Boil Water Notice
2026-02-20 09:00 - 12:30 | 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)

Wastewater Exam
2026-03-20 08:45 - 12:00 | National Life Complex, Dewey Building, 1 National Life Drive, Montpelier, VT, 05602, United States
Licensing exams for all levels of Vermont domestic and industrial (dairy, metal, paper) pollution abatement facility operators. The exam will be administered on a laptop.
Registration closes on March 4. Refunds will not be given for cancellations within two weeks of the exam date. No-shows will be charged the full fee.
You do not need to get approval from the Office of Professional Regulations (OPR) before testing.
What to expect:

Please arrive by 8:45 am. The exam will start promptly at 9 am.
You will be provided with a laptop, mouse, calculator, ABC formula sheet, scratch paper, pencil, and earplugs. You may bring your own calculator as long as it is silent and non-programmable without alphabetic keypads or printing capabilities.
Bring a government-issued ID that shows your name and photograph.
You will not be allowed to have personal items with you during the exam. Coats, hats, and bags should be left in your vehicle or a designated spot outside of the exam room. You will be given a bag to store your cellphone, wallet, and keys during the exam. Cellphones/pagers must be silenced or powered off.
Eating, drinking, or smoking is not permitted in the exam room.
You may take a break whenever you wish, but you will not be allowed additional time to make up for time lost during breaks. During breaks, you are permitted to leave the exam room to use the bathroom. However, you are not permitted to leave the building (including for smoking). Each break cannot exceed 10 minutes.
Results will be emailed to the email address you provide when you register. By registering for this exam, you consent to have your results shared with Office of Professional Regulation (OPR), the Wastewater Management Program, and Vermont Rural Water.

Web-based testing at Vermont Rural Water’s office.

Wastewater Exam
2026-03-20 12:45 - 16:00 | National Life Complex, Dewey Building, 1 National Life Drive, Montpelier, VT, 05602, United States
Licensing exams for all levels of Vermont domestic and industrial (dairy, metal, paper) pollution abatement facility operators. The exam will be administered on a laptop.
Registration closes on March 4. Refunds will not be given for cancellations within two weeks of the exam date. No-shows will be charged the full fee.
You do not need to get approval from the Office of Professional Regulations (OPR) before testing.
What to expect:

Please arrive by 12:45 pm. The exam will start promptly at 1 pm.
You will be provided with a laptop, mouse, calculator, ABC formula sheet, scratch paper, pencil, and earplugs. You may bring your own calculator as long as it is silent and non-programmable without alphabetic keypads or printing capabilities.
Bring a government-issued ID that shows your name and photograph.
You will not be allowed to have personal items with you during the exam. Coats, hats, and bags should be left in your vehicle or a designated spot outside of the exam room. You will be given a bag to store your cellphone, wallet, and keys during the exam. Cellphones/pagers must be silenced or powered off.
Eating, drinking, or smoking is not permitted in the exam room.
You may take a break whenever you wish, but you will not be allowed additional time to make up for time lost during breaks. During breaks, you are permitted to leave the exam room to use the bathroom. However, you are not permitted to leave the building (including for smoking). Each break cannot exceed 10 minutes.
Results will be emailed to the email address you provide when you register. By registering for this exam, you consent to have your results shared with Office of Professional Regulation (OPR), the Wastewater Management Program, and Vermont Rural Water.

Web-based testing at Vermont Rural Water’s office.

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)
