EPA Training & Technical Assistance for Small & Rural Decentralized WW Systems

The NRWA Decentralized Wastewater Technical Assistance and Training Program
provides expertise and service that would otherwise be unaffordable to small, rural, and
disadvantaged communities, particularly those in traditionally underserved and
economically challenged areas.

• Identify and evaluate solutions to community water and wastewater problems,
  emphasizing communities and systems.
•  Assist with improving wastewater system management, operation, maintenance, and
  sustainability.
•  Increase the number of communities with improved environmental and public health
  outcomes.
•  Increase the number of communities with knowledge of and access to water and
  waste disposal loans and grants.
• Promote rural residents’ equitable access to Rural Development programs and
  benefit from RD-funded projects.
• Distribute materials to a broader audience and increase the value of existing
  programs, resources, and partnerships.

The DcWW Water Quality Action Specialists provide a holistic technical assistance
approach to disadvantaged rural communities with failing or inadequate wastewater
treatment, including helping communities formulate Wastewater Community
Assessment Reports and Strategic Wastewater Action Plans by facilitating community
involvement and steering committee consensus for project implementation.