Education Committee Meeting

March 7, 2001

Attendees:

Del Haag                      Jarrod Christen                        John Thom               Jerry Balbach

Meeting was held to look at the future of operator training.  Try to identify trouble spots and to look for ideas on how the MWOA can improve our training program.

Del Haag identified biosolids as an immediate problem spot.  With the MPCA proposing to eliminate the biosolids area, operators will not have an opportunity to receive training.  This could lead to serious problems, especially with biosolids record keeping.

The committee feels that the MWOA needs to take a more active role in biosolids training.  We also need to meet with the MPCA to get input on the future of the staff in the biosolids area.  Does the MWOA take over the Certification Program?  (Class IV & V)

During the Training Coalition Meeting, the MPCA indicated that they are going to keep the large conferences (the moneymakers).  They also stated that they couldn’t commit past the end of their fiscal year (June 30).  Is the MWOA willing to take over the March annual?  The committee feels that we need further input from the MPCA.  Del advised that a meeting be set up with Lisa Thorvig.  Areas that need to be covered:

Biosolids

MPCA’s commitment to future training

What happens if Gene leaves?

Would MPCA staff be available for MWOA training meetings?

Jerry Balbach will try to set up a meeting with Lisa Thorvig and report back at the next MWOA Board meeting.

The committee discussed the idea of joint training meetings with MRWA, AWWA, etc.  Everyone feels this would be a good idea.  It would allow us to be involved in the training and keep our organization strong.  We may even gain new members.  Need input from the MWOA Board on joint water – wastewater meetings.

Also need MWOA Board input on exam refreshers at our annual conference.

Respectfully submitted,

Jerry Balbach

Vice President, MWOA