National Association of Clean Water Agencies
| Company type | Nonprofit organization |
|---|---|
| Industry | Environmental advocacy |
| Predecessor | Association of Metropolitan Sewerage Agencies (AMSA) |
| Founded | 1970 |
| Founder | Delegates from 22 municipal wastewater treatment facilities |
| Headquarters | United States |
Area served | United States |
| Products | Advocacy, technical guidance, conferences, webinars |
National Association of Clean Water Agencies (NACWA) serves as a representative body for publicly operated wastewater treatment plants, collection networks, and stormwater management entities in dealings with the U.S. Congress, federal regulatory bodies, and judicial institutions. NACWA champions the cause of federal investment and sound policy frameworks to promote water cleanliness and environmental well-being.
History
The foundation of NACWA is closely linked to the enactment of the Clean Water Act and the formation of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). During the late 1960s and early 1970s, Senator Edmund Muskie (D-Maine) was instrumental in advancing critical environmental legislation aimed at restoring and protecting American waterways.
In 1970, delegates from 22 prominent municipal wastewater treatment facilities established the Association of Metropolitan Sewerage Agencies (AMSA) with the goal of obtaining federal support for local execution of these new regulations. Despite President Nixon’s veto, Congress passed the Clean Water Act in 1972 by overriding it. This landmark legislation initiated funding programs for municipal water quality initiatives and coincided with the creation of the EPA. Since that time, AMSA—now known as NACWA—has played a pivotal role as a federal advisory group on water pollution matters.
NACWA actively collaborated with lawmakers during the 1977 amendments to the Clean Water Act, contributing to the acquisition of $26 billion in grants for municipal infrastructure development. The association’s membership, composed primarily of local government representatives, has consistently prioritized safeguarding public health through improvements in water quality.
For over forty years, NACWA has been engaged in shaping federal policies and regulations related to clean water, watershed stewardship, control of nonpoint source pollution, and air quality standards. It maintains ongoing partnerships with Congress, presidential administrations, and EPA officials.
In 2005, AMSA transitioned to become the National Association of Clean Water Agencies, broadening its focus to include environmental policy driven by scientific research and economic considerations alongside its commitment to responsible stewardship.
Notable Campaigns
The National Association of Clean Water Agencies advocates on behalf of clean water entities before legislative bodies, EPA regulators, and judicial forums. Its initiatives prioritize securing enhanced financial resources, establishing enforceable measures targeting nonpoint source pollution, improving the total maximum daily load (TMDL) framework, and advancing stormwater management practices.
Additionally, NACWA offers technical guidance and advocacy materials such as newsletters, white papers, and analytical reports. It organizes five major national conferences addressing technical issues, policy developments, and utility management strategies while also hosting webinars focused on critical topics within the industry.