WERF and WRF Consolidation News An Overview Presented by the WRF and WERF Board Chairs
Who We Are - WRF WRF Water Research Foundation (Denver, CO) Provides scientifically sound insights and practical solutions to complex challenges facing the water community Delivers cutting-edge research development and rigorous project management Sponsored nearly 1,500 research projects valued at $500 million Serves more than 1,000 subscribing organizations - mostly water utilities, but also manufacturers and consultants
Who We Are WERF WERF Water Environment Research Foundation (Alexandria, VA) Dedicated to the most pressing wastewater and stormwater issues Offers peer-reviewed research by leading experts Provides $130 million in water quality research Serves 300 subscribers, including: wastewater treatment plants, stormwater utilities, regulatory agencies, industry, equipment manufacturers, engineers and consultants
Why Consolidate? The Vision for a One Water Research Foundation Boundaries of the research needs of water, wastewater, and stormwater are disappearing and the objectives of research are merging Create the definitive research organization to advance the science of all things water Meet the evolving needs of our subscribers and the global water community Provide a unified voice for smart regulation and stronger relationships with federal agencies and decision-makers
Consolidation Research Impact? Enhanced Water Research Expanded collection of water research; greater knowledge base Leverage funding Eliminate competition for funding Coordinated messaging and efforts supporting a One Water vision Increase in research funding with administrative economies of scale
Consolidation Current Research? Existing Research Programs and Projects Formed Research Task Force Evaluated current research programs and made recommendations for an enhanced research program structure All active research projects will continue and be finalized per current agreements 20-year history of WERF and WRF research collaboration on almost 50 projects Drinking water and wastewater research information, resources, and other subscriber benefits will continue to be delivered, expanded and enhanced
WERF and WRF Research Alignment Existing Research Programs
WRF and WERF Research Alignment High Priority Research Areas
Consolidation Interim Rates? Short-term (2016) Subscription Rate Structure Formed Subscription Rate Task Force Examined current rate structures of WERF and WRF for members of one foundation and members of both foundations Created interim (2016) rates until new foundation can diligently review alternative rates New interim rates support expanded research capabilities; Subscriber to both foundations - 1.5% decrease of combined total dues in 2016 Subscriber to one foundation - 2.5% increase over 2015 dues
Consolidation New Foundation Leadership? Executive Director of New Foundation Rob Renner, current WRF executive director for 10 years Noted for prioritization of research dollars, building partnerships with global, water research community and government officials More than 40 years of experience - manager and consultant with optimizing water treatment plant performance A joint search has been initiated for a deputy executive director who will report to Mr. Renner
Consolidation Staff and Office Location Impact? WERF and WRF to Maintain Staff and Offices Consolidation process is not based on reductions in staff Staff will be important contributors to success of new foundation Both Denver, CO (WRF) and Alexandria, VA (WERF) offices will be maintained: Long-term office leases Increased access to and for subscribers, volunteers, researchers, etc. Maintain active connection with federal agencies, decision-makers
Consolidation Q & A Session Contact: Denise L. Kruger, WRF Chair Golden State Water Company dlkruger@gswater.com Kevin L. Shafer, WERF Chair Metro Milwaukee Sewerage District kshafer@mmsd.com