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Spring Connolly, JETCC 6/6/11

On April 13th and 14th, the Joint Environmental Training Coordinating Committee (JETCC) sponsored the 2011 North Country Convention at the Presque Isle Inn and Convention Center.  Maine Wastewater Control Association (MWWCA) co-sponsored the 2-day convention and trade show which is a complement to the two annual MWWCA conventions that take place in Maine's southern regions.  Historically this biennial convention helps unify Maine's wastewater industry while providing educational opportunities for water pollution control professionals in northern Maine.  In addition, E.J. Prescott also participated as a sponsor and helped to ensure that additional classes were also available for Drinking Water operators.

This year's event was well-attended and a great success: the 131 participants consisted of 34 vendor representatives and a multitude of instructors who volunteered their time and expertise.  Assisting in various capacities, volunteers from MWWCA, the JETCC Board of Directors and Maine Water Utilities Association (MWUA) also helped to ensure things went smoothly.  Along with educational events, this two-day trade show featured manufacturer's representatives displaying wares and services pertinent to the water and wastewater industries.  Twenty-five different training sessions were offered allowing participants to achieve up to 12 hours of continuing education toward their water or wastewater licenses.  Beginning with a DEP and DHHS issues briefing, topics included energy efficiency improvements, conflict avoidance, exam preparation techniques, emerging issues with flushables, succession planning, groundwater integrity, lab and process control practices and asset management among others.

Kicked off with an opening address from Presque Isle Chamber of Commerce Director Theresa Fowler, the convention also included luncheon addresses by Darryl Brown, former Maine DEP Commissioner, and Paul Rodriquez, president of Maine Wastewater Control Association (MWWCA).  After touring facilities in Aroostook County, Darryl Brown discussed the challenging balance between environmental protection and business growth.  Paul Rodriquez spoke of the many MWWCA activities that benefit all of Maine's POTWs including work with MWUA on legislation, an interstate operator exchange program and Association resources that are available to statewide facilities.  He also encouraged operators from northern Maine to become involved in MWWCA committees and activities.

Convention Included 25 Training Session Opportunities for Participants

JETCC would like to thank the sponsors of the North Country Convention:  Maine Wastewater Control Association, E.J. Prescott, Wright-Pierce, Woodard & Curran, Ted Berry Company, A.W. Chesterton Company and ClearWater Laboratory.

Volunteer Instructors Leonard Blanchette, Brunswick Sewer District, and Travis Peaslee, LAWPCA

All in all the event was a great unifier for Maine's water, wastewater and pollution control community, and provided a wealth of networking and educational opportunities. The convention was appreciated by wastewater operators, drinking water operators, instructors and exhibitors alike.