(September 19, 2017) – Bloomberg News published an article September 13 looking at the impacts of Hurricanes Harvey and Irma on wastewater treatment plants and their local communities.  While the article noted the significant number of sewage overflows that resulted from the storms, NACWA was quoted in the piece and emphasized that no sewer system can be adequately designed to accommodate these extreme kinds of wet weather events.  The Association also noted that the need to improve resiliency at many utilities in the face of increasing storm events is a critical reason why water infrastructure must be included as a significant component of any federal infrastructure package and the critical nature of getting recovery funds to municipal water/wastewater systems efficiently to help with the recovery process. 

As Texas and the Southeast continue with their recovery efforts from the storms, NACWA is closely monitoring developments and stands ready to help its members in any way necessary.  This includes engagement with both EPA and FEMA to improve disaster recovery efforts.  Members with any questions about NACWA’s role in the recovery effort or in need of assistance can contact Nathan Gardner-Andrews.