Michele Robertson to speak at upcoming AZ Water conference

AZ Water is about to hold its 85^th annual conference. This year’s theme, “Celebrating the Past, Planning for the Future,” brings together dozens of experts who will present talks on the history of water in Arizona, the measures we’ve taken to protect it, and the actions needed keep it safe for future generations. One of these experts is M&A’s Michele Robertson, P.G., former ADEQ Groundwater Section Manager.

Michele’s talk, “California: Arizona’s Crystal Ball for Reuse Regulations?” will focus on recent developments in our neighboring state. Long viewed as a bellwether for environmental issues, California is moving forward aggressively with policies and regulations that promote the increased reuse of reclaimed water. The state recently adopted statutes setting two important deadlines. One of these deadlines would establish uniform criteria for the indirect potable reuse of groundwater recharge by 2013; the other requires a final report and recommendations on direct potable reuse by 2016.

Michele’s presentation will examine California’s approach and compare to ours here in Arizona, where budgetary constraints pose severe challenges to the agencies tasked with implementing the Blue Ribbon Panel’s recommendations to remove impediments to reuse.

AZ Water is a nonprofit educational organization dedicated to preserving and enhancing Arizona’s water environment. This year’s conference will be held from May 2–4 in Glendale, Arizona. For more info, visit azwater.org.