Catawba Wateree Water Management Group 2015 Annual Report

Citizens' Water Academy

About the Citizens’ Water Academy

The Catawba-Wateree Water Management Group (CWWMG) has been proudly offering the Citizens’ Water Academy to prepare current and aspiring leaders for several years. The Academy's goal is to cultivate environmental stewards who grasp the significance of planning for a secure and sustainable water future and who will passionately advocate for safeguarding our shared water supply within their respective communities.

The Academy is a three-month course that prepares participants to make informed decisions about the management, regulation, and operation of critical water resources and infrastructure in an ever-evolving environment. Participants learn from leaders and advocates who examine the past, present and future of water resource management. At the conclusion of the program, participants receive a Certificate of Completion from CWWMG and a discounted ticket to the annual Water for All Summit.

CWWMG is hosting the Citizens’ Water Academy for its ninth year in 2027. Interested community members and professionals are encouraged to register for the 2027 Academy using the Eventbrite Registration Form. Academy classes will begin in January 2027.

2027 Academy Schedule

Module 1: Introduction to the Basin
Saturday, January 23, 2027 | 9:30 a.m.-1:00 p.m.
Quest Nature Center (6345 Sample Rd., Huntersville, NC 28078)

Module 2: History of the Catawba
Saturday, January 30, 2027 | 9:30 a.m.-1:00 p.m.
Catawba Cultural Center (1536 Tom Steven Rd., Rock Hill, SC 29730) | Microsoft Teams

Module 3: Duke Energy's Role in the River
Thursday, February 4, 2027 | 9:00 - 10:30 a.m.
Virtual Session

Module 4: Water Utility Operations
Saturday, February 13, 2027 | 9:30 a.m.-1:00 p.m.
Rock Hill Water Treatment Plant (2102 Cherry Rd., Rock Hill, SC 29730), City of Hickory Water Treatment Facility (1560 Old Lenoir Rd., Hickory, NC 28601)

Module 5: Storm Water Challenges – Who’s in Charge of Water Quality
Thursday, February 18, 2027 | 9:00-10:30 a.m.
Virtual Session

Module 6: Local Advocates
Thursday, February 25, 2027 | 3:00-5:00 p.m.
Catawba Riverkeeper Confluence (117 Center Street, Cramerton, NC)

Module 7: Land Use Impacts on Water Quality
Thursday, March 4, 2027 | 9:00 - 10:30 a.m.
Virtual Session

Module 8: Recreation & River Life in the Catawba
Thursday, March 11, 2027 | 9:00 - 10:30 a.m.
Virtual Session

Module 9: Integrated Water Resources Plan
Thursday, March 18, 2027 | 9:00 - 10:30 a.m.
Virtual Session

Visit our Youtube channel to watch sessions from past academies.

Who Should Enroll in the Citizens’ Water Academy?

If you are (or know someone that is!):

A current or up-and-coming civic, utility and/or industry leader
A public official interested in local and/or regional water resource management
A community advocate interested in water issues
A curious student interested in advocating for the environment

And are interested in influencing public policy, supporting environmental stewardship, and educating about water issues, then this program is for you!