Water & Health Advisory Council members Chad Seidel, President of Corona Environmental Consulting and Kathryn Sorensen, Director of Research at the Kyl Center for Water Policy, Arizona State University, delivered powerful messages at AWWA’s Annual Conference & Expo 2025.
Kathryn kicked off the event with a bold keynote speech, addressing the top challenges communities face today. She highlighted the critical need for water systems to overcome adversity and focus on the issues that matter most. Her message was both innovative and inspiring. Read more about the keynote speech here.
Chad led two sessions where he discussed drinking water utility preparedness for wildfires and Legionella in water distribution systems. In the first session, Dr. Seidel highlighted the damaging effects wildfires can have on water systems. The discussion emphasized the importance of preparing treatment plants, distribution networks, and infrastructure to withstand future fire threats. Strategies included developing wildfire response and recovery plans, enhancing distribution system resilience, and coordinating with emergency responders to ensure continuity of water services and safety for communities.
The second session focused on proactive measures to mitigate Legionnaires’ disease outbreaks in the United States. Dr. Seidel emphasized the importance of utilities managing Legionella proactively through comprehensive distribution system monitoring, robust disinfection practices, and collaboration between water utilities and building managers. Drawing on recent outbreak investigations, the emphasis was placed on maintaining disinfectant residual levels, routine flushing, and an integrated approach across systems and premise infrastructure to reduce risk.
Infrastructure integrity and microbial contaminants continue to pose the most significant risks to public health. With limited resources, it is crucial to prioritize investments that support our communities.
