The Water Environment Federation (WEF) has joined the EPA and eight other signatory organizations in a commitment to improve decentralized wastewater treatment system performance in the U. S., signing the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) Regarding Cooperation in Decentralized Wastewater Management Program. The signing ceremony took place on Jan. 12, 2005 at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C.

The agreement will strive to improve wastewater treatment for 25 million existing homes and a third of all new development nationwide. The WEF, EPA and other organizations have committed to increasing information exchange, public awareness, training, technical assistance and outreach.

"Decentralization plays an important role in the maintenance of public health and the global water environment," said WEF Executive Director Bill Bertera. "This agreement will allow WEF to utilize its expertise to establish and promote widespread adoption of best practices with regards to the design, operation, maintenance and management of these systems and assist water quality professionals with selecting the most appropriate wastewater management option for their specific situation."

The federation is planning to meet the MOU goals by utilizing an array of educational vehicles including workshops, conferences, training courses and seminars, as well as technical and educational articles placed in publications and newsletters.

Other signatory organizations include: the National Association of Towns & Townships, National Association of Wastewater Transporters, National Environmental Health Association, National Environmental Services Center, National Onsite Wastewater Recycling Association, Rural Community Assistance Partnership and Consortium of Institutes for Decentralized Wastewater Treatment.