Monday, Jun 18 2012 4:42PM

As the availability of quality water continues to be a concern for those living on tribal land, Rural Community Assistance Corporation (RCAC) and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) will present the 5th Biennial Tribal Drinking Water Conference, July 16-19, to address the issue.

Participants of the conference, which include members of various Native American organizations, will attend four core curriculum sessions that focus on project management, water conservation, operation and maintenance and the Safe Drinking Water Act. The sessions will explore how tribes can make decisions regarding operating costs and manage aging infrastructure to provide reliable and safe drinking water to benefit those living in their communities.

"An overwhelmingly enthusiastic response to both style and content of every training session in the 2010 Tribal Drinking Water Conference was reflected in course evaluations," said Helen McKinley, EPA, Region IX. "The 2012 conference is expected to be a similar success; small class sizes, engaging interactive techniques, and relevant topics ensure a very positive learning environment for tribal water managers and operators."

Those looking to attend can apply for travel expense reimbursements or stipends through the Inter Tribal Council of Arizona, with funding provided through the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).

For further information, check out this source: Rural Community Assistance Corporation