THE DIVISIONS’ DIGEST
2024 WASDA WASHINGTON SUMMIT
Our Fight for the FUTURE OF WATERWORKS
Do you work in water management? Have you noticed an uptick in water issues across your region? Well, you’re not alone. In fact, a recent study conducted by Utah State University found that North America’s water infrastructure may actually be in dire need of maintenance—much more than previously thought. Led by Professor Steven L. Barfuss, P.E., the USU study identified water main break rates as a leading indicator of failing pipelines. Using this, his team was able to survey more than 800 utilities and nearly 400,000 miles of pipeline data—accounting for 17% of water mains across the United States and Canada. What they found may raise concerns and eyebrows. “The report shows that 20%—452,000 miles of water pipes in the US and Canada—are beyond their useful lives and need to be replaced but have not
a single decade. And what’s worse, this represents a $452 billion shortfall. Couple that with supply chain disruptions and workforce dropoff, and the landscape begins to look quite bleak for the average onlooker. So the real question becomes: Who will step up to release the funds needed, and will they do it in time to make a difference? Action Through Representation When we see these types of challenges, there’s no doubt critical action is needed. Action on the municipal level, yes. But most importantly, action on the federal level to drive updates our water infrastructure desperately requires to function safely and efficiently. This is where Water and Sewer Directors of America (WASDA) comes in. As the voice of the water and wastewater supply chain on Capitol Hill, WASDA is made up of leading industry professionals and businesses— including Coburn Supply Company.
been due to lack of funds.” – Professor Steven L. Barfuss, USU
For comparison, only 8% of installed water mains were listed as beyond use in 2012. That means we’ve more than doubled the deterioration of our water system in
BUSINESS TECHNOLOGY IN THE PALM OF YOUR HAND
REPLENISHMENT PROGRAM Coburn’s Connect offers a fast & easy way to restock your shelves – just scan product barcodes to add to your Order Queue. Ready to get started? Download the Coburn’s Connect app today!
12
Made with FlippingBook Digital Publishing Software