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The Water for 2060 Excellence Awards were created in 2017 to recognize individuals or entities that have developed outstanding water saving measures in three separate categories— Public Water Supply, Energy/Industry, and Crop Irrigation/Agriculture Production.  The awards were established to support Oklahoma's Water for 2060 Act and the recommendations of a special advisory council to Governor Mary Fallin and the Legislature.

The winners of the 2018 Water for 2060 Excellence Awards are:

• Fred Fischer of Flatland Farms in Texas County for significantly reducing water use for irrigation by as much as 40% with the innovative technologies, data analysis, and enhancements;
• American Water Enterprises: For the Fort Sill U.S. Army Installation Water Reuse Project which will significantly decrease the amount of fresh water used by Fort Sill by as much as 37 million gallons each year; and
• Waurika Lake Master Conservancy District for the Waurika Lake Water Intake Channel Maintenance Dredging and Resiliency Project, which provided access to more than 25,000 acre-feet of water supply.

"If Oklahoma is to achieve the goal established under the Water for 2060 Act, to use no more fresh water in 2060 than we were using in 2010 while preserving our population growth and economic development goals, it will take public and private innovation and leadership in water conservation, efficiency, and reclamation efforts of the type demonstrated by our Water for 2060 Excellence Award winners," said OWRB Executive Director Julie Cunningham. "On behalf of the Governor and the Water for 2060 Advisory Council, I congratulate each of the awardees and their organizations on this well-deserved honor."

The Oklahoma Water Pioneer Award was initiated in 1985 to honor the men and women who have made significant contributions in the planning, development, and management of Oklahoma's water resources.  This year's Oklahoma Water Pioneers were Rudy Herrmann and Arthur Wayne "Dub" Sloan. 

Herrmann was appointed to the Oklahoma Water Resources Board in 2004 and served for eleven years, including six years as chairman. Mr. Sloan has devoted his lifelong career in agriculture to responsible stewardship through water and soil conservation efforts.

"The citizens of Oklahoma owe much to these Water Pioneers for their dedication and leadership.  This award is a gesture of appreciation for their wisdom in helping manage Oklahoma's water resources, and for doing their part to preserve the integrity, beauty, and usefulness of the state's waters for future generations," added Cunningham.

The conference and symposium, hosted by the OWRB and the Oklahoma Water Resources Center, is the state's premier water-related issues event.  The event annually features both internationally and nationally renowned water issues experts while covering a broad spectrum of water-related issues facing the state of Oklahoma.

The Authority suffered an electrical fault at a wastewater lift station which caused a dual pump failure. This resulted in sewage bypassing the lift station. To remedy the situation two new pumps were installed along with guide rails and supports, a float system and control panel. The total cost of the project is $53,311.59 which will be funded by the OWRB Emergency Grant in the amount of $22,000 and $31,311.59 in local funds.

Joe Freeman, chief of the OWRB's Financial Assistance Division, calculated that the grant will save the Authority's customers $39,600 in principal and interest charges by not having to borrow the project funds. Since 1983 the Water Resources Board has approved over $4.1 billion in loans and grants for water and wastewater infrastructure improvements throughout Oklahoma. Evan Stevens, Tipton Councilman, attended the OWRB's monthly meeting in support of the emergency grant application.

"We are grateful to State Senator Chris Kidd and State Representative Trey Caldwell for their continued support of water and wastewater infrastructure funding in Oklahoma," said Julie Cunningham, OWRB Executive Director.

The Authority will utilize the proceeds to rehabilitate a clarifier, modify and replace existing sewage system pumps, construct a new non-potable water system, design a disinfection system at the Lynn Lane treatment plant and initiate design of a Phase One project for the Elm Creek Sewer Trunk line replacement. Currently the Authority discharges into the Arkansas River, which is impaired for bacteria. The improvement project is designed to help improve the water quality of the Authority's wastewater discharges into the Arkansas River.

Joe Freeman, Chief of the OWRB's Financial Assistance Division calculated that the Authority's customers will save an estimated $487,000 over the life of the 25-year loan compared to traditional financing. The CWSRF loan will be secured with a lien on the revenues of the Authority's water, sewer and sanitation systems and a one cent sales tax. Broken Arrow Municipal Authority's official attending the OWRB's monthly meeting in support of the loan application was Cindy Arnold, Finance Director.

The CWSRF program is administered by the Oklahoma Water Resources Board with partial funding from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Oklahoma utilizes the CWSRF to provide communities the resources necessary to maintain and improve the infrastructure that protects our valuable water resources statewide.

Since 1983, the Oklahoma Water Resources Board has approved over $4.1 billion in loans and grants for water and wastewater infrastructure improvements throughout Oklahoma.

"We are grateful to state legislators from the Broken Arrow metro area for their support of our financial assistance programs," said Julie Cunningham, Executive Director of the OWRB.

The Authority will utilize the proceeds for demolition of the existing spillway to be replaced with a new spillway with an underdrain system, addition of three feet thick riprap and nine inch bedding. The project has been approved as a Nonpoint Source (NPS) project through the CWSRF program as it will help to prevent additional sediment, nutrients and salts from being washed downstream into Wildhorse Creek.

Joe Freeman, Chief of the OWRB's Financial Assistance Division calculated that the Authority's customers will save an estimated $5,041,000 over the life of the 30-year loan compared to traditional financing. The CWSRF loan will be secured with a lien on the revenues of the Authority's water, sewer, sanitation and electric systems. The Duncan Public Utilities Authority's official attending the OWRB's monthly meeting in support of the loan application was Kim Meek, City Manager.

The CWSRF program is administered by the Oklahoma Water Resources Board with partial funding from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Oklahoma utilizes the CWSRF to provide communities the resources necessary to maintain and improve the infrastructure that protects our valuable water resources statewide.

Since 1983, the Oklahoma Water Resources Board has approved over $4.1 billion in loans and grants for water and wastewater infrastructure improvements throughout Oklahoma.

"We are grateful to State Senators Chris Kidd and Paul Scott and State Representative Marcus McEntire, for their support of our financial assistance programs," said Julie Cunningham, Executive Director of the OWRB.

The Authority will utilize the proceeds from the CWSRF funding on a Downtown Streetscape remodel to include the installation of permeable concrete pavers, planting of trees and construction of a new irrigation system. The project was approved as a Nonpoint Source (NPS) project because the improvements will reduce runoff contaminates from entering the local watershed.

Joe Freeman, Chief of the OWRB's Financial Assistance Division calculated that the Authority's customers will save an estimated $210,000 over the life of the 30-year loan compared to traditional financing. The CWSRF loan will be secured with a lien on the revenues of the Authority's water, sewer and sanitation systems. The Elk City Public Works Authority's official attending the OWRB's monthly meeting in support of the loan application was Elesia Church, Treasurer.

The CWSRF program is administered by the Oklahoma Water Resources Board with partial funding from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Oklahoma utilizes the CWSRF to provide communities the resources necessary to maintain and improve the infrastructure that protects our valuable water resources statewide.

Since 1983, the Oklahoma Water Resources Board has approved over $4.1 billion in loans and grants for water and wastewater infrastructure improvements throughout Oklahoma.

"We are grateful to State Senator Darcy Jech and State Representatives Harold Wright and Todd Russ, for their support of our financial assistance programs," said Julie Cunningham, Executive Director of the OWRB.

The Authority will utilize the proceeds to design and construct approximately 60,000 feet of water line, 40 valves, 70 fire hydrants, install pressure reducing valves and rehabilitate two booster pump stations. These enhancements will allow for isolated system shut-offs during water main breaks, or to perform routine maintenance without disrupting the entire distribution system. The improvements will also assist Eufaula in maintaining DEQ water pressure requirements for residents and businesses in and near the Authority.

Joe Freeman, Chief of the OWRB's Financial Assistance Division calculated that the Authority's customers will save an estimated $2,310,000 over the life of the 30-year loan compared to traditional financing. The DWSRF loan will be secured with a lien on the revenues of the Authority's water, sewer and sanitation systems, a 3.5% sales tax and mortgage. The Eufaula Public Works Authority's official attending the OWRB's monthly meeting in support of the loan application was Jacob Foos, City Manager.

The DWSRF program is administered by the OWRB and the Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality (ODEQ) with partial funding from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The DWSRF program has provided approximately $1.2 billion in drinking water loans to provide communities the resources necessary to maintain and improve the infrastructure that protects our valuable water resources statewide.

Since 1983, the Oklahoma Water Resources Board has approved over $4.1 billion in loans and grants for water and wastewater infrastructure improvements throughout Oklahoma.

Julie Cunningham, Executive Director of the OWRB, and Scott Thompson, Executive Director of the ODEQ, express their sincere appreciation to State Senator Roger Thompson and State Representatives Randy Randleman and David Smith for their support of the DWSRF program.

A section of the Authority's water system line collapsed during routine repair of a nearby sewer system line. The damage to the water and sewer lines resulted in both services being shut off for thirty (30) homes to replace 500 feet of water line and 420 feet of sewer line. The total cost of the project is $52,144.91 which will be funded by the OWRB Emergency Grant in the amount of $44,323.17 and $7,821.74 in local funds.

Joe Freeman, chief of the OWRB's Financial Assistance Division, calculated that the grant will save the Authority's customers $79,781.70 in principal and interest charges by not having to borrow the project funds. Since 1983 the Water Resources Board has approved over $4.1 billion in loans and grants for water and wastewater infrastructure improvements throughout Oklahoma. The Authority's official attending the OWRB's monthly meeting in support of the emergency grant application was Councilwoman Kathy Edwards.

"We are grateful to State Senator Lonnie Paxton and State Representative David Perryman for their continued support of water and wastewater infrastructure funding in Oklahoma," said Julie Cunningham, OWRB Executive Director.

The Authority will utilize the proceeds to make improvement to their two water treatment plants. Upgrades to the Teehee plant will include rehabilitation of the wells, replacing of filters and valves, installation of filter covers and a chemical feed building. The projects at the Tenkiller plant will include installation of new pumps, a clarifier cover, storage and feed equipment, a third membrane filtration plant, control panels, a chemical resistant liner, modification of baffles and replacement of return pumps. These upgrades and improvements will reduce system evaporation, water loss, and treatment costs for residents and businesses in and near the Authority while helping to meet the State of Oklahoma's Water for 2060 goals.

Joe Freeman, Chief of the OWRB's Financial Assistance Division calculated that the Authority's customers will save an estimated $1,747,400 over the life of the 30-year loan compared to traditional financing. The DWSRF loan will be secured with a lien on the revenues of the Authority's water, sewer and electric systems. Mike Doublehead, Tahlequah Public Works Authority General Manager, attended the OWRB's monthly meeting in support of the loan application.

The DWSRF program is administered by the OWRB and the Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality (ODEQ) with partial funding from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The DWSRF program has provided approximately $1.2 billion in drinking water loans to provide communities the resources necessary to maintain and improve the infrastructure that protects our valuable water resources statewide.

Since 1983, the Oklahoma Water Resources Board has approved over $4.1 billion in loans and grants for water and wastewater infrastructure improvements throughout Oklahoma.

Julie Cunningham, Executive Director of the OWRB, and Scott Thompson, Executive Director of the ODEQ, express their sincere appreciation to State Senator Dewayne Pemberton and State Representative Matt Meredith for their support of the DWSRF program.

The Authority will utilize the proceeds for a new lift station, 3,000 feet of sewer line and 12 manholes. These improvements will provide benefit to community residents and businesses in and near the Authority by reducing inflow and infiltration (I/I) into the collection system and reducing the volume of wastewater reaching the treatment facility.

Joe Freeman, Chief of the OWRB's Financial Assistance Division calculated that the Authority's customers will save an estimated $276,000 over the life of the 20-year loan compared to traditional financing. The CWSRF loan will be secured with a lien on the revenues of the Authority's sewer and sanitation systems. The Weleetka Public Works Authority's official attending the OWRB's monthly meeting in support of the loan application was John Pugh, Board Member.

The CWSRF program is administered by the Oklahoma Water Resources Board with partial funding from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Oklahoma utilizes the CWSRF to provide communities the resources necessary to maintain and improve the infrastructure that protects our valuable water resources statewide.

Since 1983, the Oklahoma Water Resources Board has approved over $4.1 billion in loans and grants for water and wastewater infrastructure improvements throughout Oklahoma.

"We are grateful to State Senator Larry Boggs and State Representative Logan Phillips, for their support of our financial assistance programs," said Julie Cunningham, Executive Director of the OWRB.

"With this theme we wanted to focus on the value of water and highlight impactful financial investments, collaborations, and innovations by entities across the state and nation that are contributing to the efficient development of our natural water resources for decades to come," said, OWRB Executive Director Julie Cunningham. "The topics covered at the conference exemplify the many important facets of the ongoing work to implement the Oklahoma Comprehensive Water Plan."

Conference key speakers include Oklahoma Governor Mary Fallin, Chad Pregracke, CNN's 2013 Hero of the Year and author of "From the Bottom Up: One Man's Crusade to Clean America's Rivers", Oklahoma State Chamber President & CEO, Free Morgan, Oklahoma Secretary of Agriculture , Food & Forestry Jim Reese, Oklahoma Secretary of Energy & Environment Michael Teague. The symposium portion of the event, hosted by the Oklahoma Water Resources Center, will feature poster and oral presentations by students and professionals on a wide variety of water-related topics, as well as additional speakers and panel discussions.

Conference Agenda

Finally, the conference awards program will feature both the long-standing Oklahoma Water Pioneer Awards and the Oklahoma Water for 2060 Excellence Awards, created in 2017. The Oklahoma Water Pioneer Award was initiated in 1985 to honor the men and women who have made significant contributions in the planning, development, management, and conservation of Oklahoma's water resources. The Oklahoma Water for 2060 Excellence Awards were established in 2017 to recognize individuals and entities that have developed outstanding water saving measures in three categories— Public Water Supply, Energy/Industry, and Crop Irrigation/Agriculture Production.

Conference Web Page

The meeting is the third of a series of public meetings to share information, and most importantly obtain public and stakeholder feedback, on an Instream Flow Pilot Study that has been conducted on the Upper Illinois River (including Barron Fork and Flint Creeks) above Lake Tenkiller in eastern Oklahoma.

The water planning officials will discuss findings in the Illinois River Instream Flow Pilot Study, and the alternatives for various flow strategies and trade-offs that might be beneficial to the watershed as a whole. This will include public and stakeholder input on alternatives that could be considered for both consumptive and non-consumptive water uses such as habitat and recreation.

For more information about the Illinois River Stakeholder Forum, or the Instream Flow Advisory Group, please visit the Instream Flow Advisory Group page or contact Owen Mills at 405-530-8800 or owen.mills@owrb.ok.gov.

The Authority will utilize the proceeds to install 30-inch water line to replace two 24-inch parallel water lines, replace additional various sized water lines throughout the distribution system, install an aeration at the Radio Hill storage tank, and a mixing system at the Honor Heights storage tank. These changes will provide water quality benefits to residents and businesses in and near the Authority through a decrease in disinfection byproducts, reduced water age, and the relocation of the chlorine dioxide injection point from the raw water intake to the water treatment plant.

Joe Freeman, Chief of the OWRB's Financial Assistance Division calculated that the Authority's customers will save an estimated $2,808,000 over the life of the 30-year loan compared to traditional financing. The DWSRF loan will be secured with a lien on the revenues of the Authority's water and sewer systems. Greg Riley, Muskogee's Public Works Director, attended the OWRB's monthly meeting in support of the loan application. Mr. Riley stated, "We appreciate the Board's consideration of this loan request and plan to do great things with our drinking water."

The DWSRF program is administered by the OWRB and the Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality (ODEQ) with partial funding from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The DWSRF program has provided approximately $1.28 billion in drinking water loans to provide communities the resources necessary to maintain and improve the infrastructure that protects our valuable water resources statewide.

Since 1983, the Oklahoma Water Resources Board has approved over $4.11 billion in loans and grants for water and wastewater infrastructure improvements throughout Oklahoma.

Julie Cunningham, Executive Director of the OWRB, and Scott Thompson, Executive Director of the ODEQ, express their sincere appreciation to State Senator Dewayne Pemberton and State Representatives George Faught and Avery Frix for their support of the DWSRF program.

The Authority will utilize the loan proceeds to construct a new pretreatment basin at their Verdigris water treatment plant, acquire property for the installation of a booster pump station at an existing water connection to Tulsa, to design the restoration of a ground water storage tank at Tiger Hill, replace the Lynn Lane trunk sewer line, construct the County Line trunk sewer line and acquire right of way for the Elm Creek trunk sewer line.

The loan shall be secured with a lien on the revenues of the Authority's water, sewer and sanitation systems and a one (1) cent sales tax. Local officials attending the OWRB's monthly meeting in support of the loan application included Cindy Arnold, Director of Finance and Alex Mills, Director of Engineering and Construction. Addressing the Board Mills said, "On behalf of the Authority, we appreciate the consideration of this loan and the funds will be utilized for critical projects in our Capital Improvement Program."

Since 1983, the Oklahoma Water Resources Board has approved over $4.09 billion in loans and grants for water and wastewater infrastructure improvements throughout Oklahoma.

"We are grateful to State Legislators from the Broken Arrow area for their support of our financial assistance programs," said Julie Cunningham, Executive Director of the OWRB.

The Authority will utilize the proceeds for engineering, planning and design for a sewer system evaluation to address inflow and infiltration issues they are experiencing. Plan recommendations will help to eliminate sanitary sewer system overflows for community residents and businesses in and near the Authority.

Joe Freeman, Chief of the OWRB's Financial Assistance Division calculated that the Authority's customers will save an estimated $64,600 over the life of the 10-year loan forgiveness funding, compared to traditional financing. The CWSRF loan will be secured with a lien on the revenues of the Authority's water, sewer and sanitation systems. Haileyville Public Works Authority's officials attending the OWRB's monthly meeting in support of the loan application included Joe Fisk, Trustee, and consulting engineers Crysta Watson and Dale Burke. Addressing the Board Fisk said, "The community sure appreciates and needs these funds."

The CWSRF program is administered by the Oklahoma Water Resources Board with partial funding from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Oklahoma utilizes the CWSRF to provide communities the resources necessary to maintain and improve the infrastructure that protects our valuable water resources statewide.

Since 1983, the Oklahoma Water Resources Board has approved over $4.09 billion in loans and grants for water and wastewater infrastructure improvements throughout Oklahoma.

"We are grateful to State Senator Larry Boggs and State Representative Brian Renegar, for their support of our financial assistance programs," said Julie Cunningham, Executive Director of the OWRB.

The Authority will utilize the proceeds on an engineering study for planning, mapping, evaluation and recommendation for the town’s sewer manholes and collection lines. Recommended improvements will reduce the amount of inflow and infiltration and unintended flows to the wastewater system helping to eliminate sanitary sewer system overflows for community residents and businesses in and near the Authority.

Joe Freeman, Chief of the OWRB’s Financial Assistance Division calculated that the Authority’s customers will save an estimated $70,000 over the life of the 10-year loan forgiveness funding, compared to traditional financing. The CWSRF loan will be secured with a lien on the revenues of the Authority’s sewer and sanitation systems. Meeker Public Works Authority officials attending the OWRB’s monthly meeting in support of the loan application included Dickie Walton, Town Administrator, Marissa Sherwood, the Authority’s Clerk and Michael Taylor from Cowan Group Engineering. Mr. Walton stated, "We really appreciate a board like you and thank you for your help.""

The CWSRF program is administered by the Oklahoma Water Resources Board with partial funding from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Oklahoma utilizes the CWSRF to provide communities the resources necessary to maintain and improve the infrastructure that protects our valuable water resources statewide.

Since 1983, the Oklahoma Water Resources Board has approved over $4 billion in loans and grants for water and wastewater infrastructure improvements throughout Oklahoma.

"We are grateful to State Senator Jason Smalley and State Representative Kevin Wallace for their support of our financial assistance programs," said Julie Cunningham, Executive Director of the OWRB.

The District will utilize the proceeds to construct a 350 gallon per minute (gpm) booster pump station and elevated storage tank which will provide an increase in water volume and pressure during peak demands for residents and businesses in the District. This project will help meet the State of Oklahoma’s Water for 2060 goals.

Joe Freeman, Chief of the OWRB’s Financial Assistance Division calculated that the District’s customers will save an estimated $169,000 over the life of the 20-year loan, compared to traditional financing. The DWSRF loan will be secured with a lien on the revenues of the District’s water and wastewater systems. Logan County RWS & SWMD No. 1 officials attending the OWRB’s monthly meeting in support of the loan application included Marilyn Barton, Chair, Robert ‘Buddy’ Thompson, District Manager, David Wyatt, from WDB Engineering, and Stuart England, from Floyd Law Firm. Ms. Barton stated, "Thank you for the consideration of this loan. Safe drinking water is the foundation of public health."

The DWSRF program is administered by the OWRB and the Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality (ODEQ) with partial funding from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The DWSRF program has provided approximately $1.25 billion in drinking water loans to provide communities the resources necessary to maintain and improve the infrastructure that protects our valuable water resources statewide.

Since 1983, the Oklahoma Water Resources Board has approved over $4 billion in loans and grants for water and wastewater infrastructure improvements throughout Oklahoma.

Julie Cunningham, Executive Director of the OWRB, and Scott Thompson, Executive Director of the ODEQ, express their sincere appreciation to Oklahoma State Legislature for continued support of the DWSRF program.

The Authority will utilize the proceeds for planning, surveying and design of the town’s sewer rehabilitation project to reduce the amount of inflow and infiltration and unintended flows to the wastewater system. Recommendations will help to eliminate sanitary sewer system overflows for community residents and businesses in and near the Authority.

Joe Freeman, Chief of the OWRB’s Financial Assistance Division calculated that the Authority’s customers will save an estimated $335,000 over the life of the 10-year loan forgiveness funding, compared to traditional financing. The CWSRF loan will be secured with a lien on the revenues of the Authority’s water, sewer and sanitation systems and a one cent sales tax. Inola Public Works Authority officials attending the OWRB’s monthly meeting in support of the loan application included Billy Wilson, Board Trustee, and Brian Kellogg, from Kellogg Engineering. Mr. Wilson stated, "Thank you, personally, for your assistance with crucial infrastructure needs for the town of Inola. We need your help.""

The CWSRF program is administered by the Oklahoma Water Resources Board with partial funding from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Oklahoma utilizes the CWSRF to provide communities the resources necessary to maintain and improve the infrastructure that protects our valuable water resources statewide.

Since 1983, the Oklahoma Water Resources Board has approved over $4 billion in loans and grants for water and wastewater infrastructure improvements throughout Oklahoma.

“We are grateful to State Senator Wayne Shaw and State Representative Tom Gann for their support of our financial assistance programs,” said Julie Cunningham, Executive Director of the OWRB.

The overall Kaw Lake project, which is estimated to cost in excess of $300 million, will include the construction of a pipeline from Kaw Reservoir east of Ponca City to Enid, as well as the construction of a surface water treatment plant, water right acquisition and right of way easements. The final project will provide an ample supply of drinking water for residents and businesses in and near the community while helping to meet the State of Oklahoma’s Water for 2060 goals.

Joe Freeman, Chief of the OWRB’s Financial Assistance Division calculated that the Authority’s customers will save a combined estimation of $6,522,000 over the life of the two (2), 30-year loans, compared to traditional financing. Both loans will be secured with a lien on the revenues of the Authority’s water, sewer and sanitation systems and a two (2) cent sales tax.

Enid officials attending the OWRB’s monthly meeting in support of the loan application included Bill Shewey, Mayor, Jerald Gilbert, City Manager, Erin Crawford, Finance Director, Chris Gdanski, Director of Engineering Services, and Michael Graves with Garver Engineers. Mr. Shewey stated, "We would like to thank you for your loan consideration. We understand that we are the hub in Northwest Oklahoma and we are looking at fifty years down the road with this project.""

The DWSRF program is administered by the OWRB and the Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality (ODEQ) with partial funding from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The DWSRF program has provided approximately $1.25 billion in drinking water loans to provide communities the resources necessary to maintain and improve the infrastructure that protects our valuable water resources statewide.

Since 1983, the Oklahoma Water Resources Board has approved over $4.01 billion in loans and grants for water and wastewater infrastructure improvements throughout Oklahoma.

Julie Cunningham, Executive Director of the OWRB, and Scott Thompson, Executive Director of the ODEQ, express their sincere appreciation to State Senator Roland Pederson and Representative Chad Caldwell for their support of the DWSRF program.

The Authority serves the City of Webbers Falls and owns and operates a wastewater collection system and treatment facility. The existing wastewater collection system is experiencing high amounts of inflow and inflitration with heavy rainfall affecting the lift stations.

The proposed project includes replacing approximately 1,000 linear feet of sewer line, installing three manholes, reconnecting approximately ten service connections and performing lift station repairs. The estimated project cost is $99,999 which is the amount of the OWRB REAP grant request.

Joe Freeman, chief of the OWRB's Financial Assistance Division, calculated that the grant will save the Authority’s customers $179,998 in principal and interest charges by not having to borrow the project funds. Since 1983 the Water Resources Board has approved over $4 billion in loans and grants for water and wastewater infrastructure improvements throughout Oklahoma.

"We are grateful to Senator Roger Thompson and Representative Ed Cannaday for their continued support of water and wastewater infrastructure funding in Oklahoma," said Julie Cunningham, OWRB Executive Director.

The District will utilize the proceeds to construct a granulated activated alumina process water treatment plant which will include: a blending station, booster pump, a new water well, the completion of an existing water well and installation of approximately four miles of water line. Project completion will provide water that meets federal drinking water standards for residents and businesses in and near the District and will support the State of Oklahoma’s Water for 2060 goals.

Joe Freeman, Chief of the OWRB’s Financial Assistance Division calculated that the District’s customers will save an estimated $1,337,000 over the life of the 30-year loan, compared to traditional financing. The DWSRF loan will be secured with a lien on the revenues of the District’s water system. Cotton County Rural Water District No. 2 officials attending the OWRB’s monthly meeting in support of the loan application included David Rodriguez, District Manager, and Al Jung, from Jung Engineering. Mr. Jung stated, "The District’s Board appreciates the approval of the Water Board loan request."

The DWSRF program is administered by the OWRB and the Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality (ODEQ) with partial funding from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The DWSRF program has provided approximately $1.25 billion in drinking water loans to provide communities the resources necessary to maintain and improve the infrastructure that protects our valuable water resources statewide.

Since 1983, the Oklahoma Water Resources Board has approved over $4 billion in loans and grants for water and wastewater infrastructure improvements throughout Oklahoma.

Julie Cunningham, Executive Director of the OWRB, and Scott Thompson, Executive Director of the ODEQ, express their sincere appreciation to State Senator Chris Kidd and State Representative Scooter Park for their support of the DWSRF program.

The Authority will utilize the funds for engineering studies, planning, and evaluation of the sanitary sewer collection system. Recommended improvements will be made based on the findings of the studies and help to reduce the amount of inflow and infiltration which will also reduce unintended flows to the wastewater system.

Joe Freeman, Chief of the OWRB’s Financial Assistance Division calculated that the Authority’s customers will save an estimated $114,850 over the life of the 10-year loan forgiveness funding, compared to traditional financing. The CWSRF loan will be secured with a lien on the revenues of the Authority’s water, sewer and sanitation systems. Carney Public Utilities Authority officials attending the OWRB’s monthly meeting in support of the loan application was Darryl Gibbs, Mayor. Mr. Gibbs stated, “Thank you so much for the proceeds. We are a small town and these funds can go a long way in helping.”

The CWSRF program is administered by the Oklahoma Water Resources Board with partial funding from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Oklahoma utilizes the CWSRF to provide communities the resources necessary to maintain and improve the infrastructure that protects our valuable water resources statewide.

Since 1983, the Oklahoma Water Resources Board has approved over $4.01 billion in loans and grants for water and wastewater infrastructure improvements throughout Oklahoma.

"We are grateful to State Senator Jason Smalley and Representative Kevin Wallace for their support of our financial assistance programs," said Julie Cunningham, Executive Director of the OWRB.

The Authority will utilize the funds for manhole improvements and to replace 11,000 linear feet of sewer lines. These improvements will help eliminate the unpermitted discharges occurring in the waste collection system for community residents and businesses in and near the Authority.

Joe Freeman, Chief of the OWRB’s Financial Assistance Division calculated that the Authority’s customers will save an estimated $529,000 over the life of the 25-year loan, compared to traditional financing. The CWSRF loan will be secured with a lien on the revenues of the Authority’s water, sewer and sanitation systems, a two (2) cent sales tax and a mortgage on the water and sewer system. Calumet officials attending the OWRB’s monthly meeting in support of the loan application included Mark Stanke, Vice Mayor, and Michael Taylor from Cowan Group Engineering, LLC. Mr. Stanke stated, "This project will affect generations to come. Thank you so much."

The CWSRF program is administered by the Oklahoma Water Resources Board with partial funding from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Oklahoma utilizes the CWSRF to provide communities the resources necessary to maintain and improve the infrastructure that protects our valuable water resources statewide.

Since 1983, the Oklahoma Water Resources Board has approved over $4 billion in loans and grants for water and wastewater infrastructure improvements throughout Oklahoma.

"We are grateful to State Senator Lonnie Paxton and State Representative Harold Wright for their support of our financial assistance programs," said Julie Cunningham, Executive Director of the OWRB.

Throughout July, the Oklahoma Water Resources Board’s (OWRB), the Oklahoma Clean Lakes and Waters Association (OCLWA), and several other partners will highlight the vital work that goes into managing, monitoring, and improving the state’s lakes and reservoirs.

Additionally, this month is a great opportunity for citizens to get involved in monitoring and protecting their favorite Oklahoma lake or reservoir.

Through the Secchi Dip-In, an effort by volunteers and professionals to gather data on water bodies during a short period of time each summer, citizens can provide annual "snapshots" of water transparency and clarity at their favorite Oklahoma lake.

Recognizing Oklahoma’s Lake Appreciation Month alongside OWRB, OCLWA, and Governor Fallin, are the North American Lake Management Society (NALMS) and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

These partners encourage citizens to consider these other specific ways you can show appreciation for your local Oklahoma lake.

1. Organize a shoreline cleanup
2. Develop an educational self-guided lake tour
3. Organize a hike or biking event with a focus on your local lake
4. Reach out to a local restaurant about hosting a "Lakes Appreciation Night" with a percentage of proceeds donated to your local lake association
5. Post a pic on social media from your favorite lake, or while you are participating in the Secchi Dip-In. Use #LakeAppreciation.

Oklahoma Lake Facts

• Oklahoma's largest lake in surface area is Eufaula (105,000 acres); Lake Texoma is second (88,000 acres) both managed by the US Corps of Engineers. The state's largest lake in conservation storage is Texoma (2.6 million acre-feet of water); Eufaula is second (2.3 million acre-feet).
• The deepest lake in Oklahoma is W.R. Holway Lake located in Mayes County and managed by the Grand River Dam Authority.
• Average annual lake evaporation in Oklahoma ranges from 48 inches in the extreme east to 65 inches in the southwest, numbers that far exceed the average yearly rainfall in those areas.
• Two Oklahoma lakes were built before statehood in 1907: Lake Talawanda (1902) & Lake Lawtonka (1905)

The Authority requested proceeds for several improvement and rehabilitation projects at their Haikey Creek wastewater treatment plant as well as for construction of sludge drying beds at the southside wastewater treatment plant.

Joe Freeman, Chief of the OWRB’s Financial Assistance Division, calculated that the Authority’s customers will save an estimated $1,030,000 over the life of the 20-year loan compared to traditional financing. The CWSRF loan will be secured with a subordinate lien on the gross revenues of the Authority’s sanitary sewer and wastewater system, less the general obligation wastewater bond contribution. Tulsa Metropolitan Utility Authority’s officials attending the OWRB’s monthly meeting in support of the loan application included Thomas Prag, Senior Special Projects Engineer, and Chris Havenar, Treasury Analyst II. Mr. Prag expressed the Authority’s appreciation by stating, “Chris and I would like to thank the board for the approval of this loan.”

The CWSRF program is administered by the Oklahoma Water Resources Board with partial funding from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Oklahoma utilizes the CWSRF to provide communities the resources necessary to maintain and improve the infrastructure that protects our valuable water resources statewide.

Since 1983, the Oklahoma Water Resources Board has approved over $3.9 billion in loans and grants for water and wastewater infrastructure improvements throughout Oklahoma.

“We are grateful to the State Legislators representing the Tulsa area for their support of our financial assistance programs,” said Julie Cunningham, Executive Director of the OWRB.

The District's water lines are in need of replacement due to natural aging of the system. The water system project includes the replacement of the water lines, which is expected to result in reduced water losses, reduced maintenance and increased wate pressure. Additionally, a number of valves will be installed to allow isolation of different areas of the water grid, providing better sampling and maintenance of the system. The estimated cost of the project is $100,014 which is the requested amount of the OWRB REAP grant.

Joe Freeman, chief of the OWRB's Financial Assistance Division, calculated that the grant will save the District’s customers $180,025 in principal and interest charges by not having to borrow the project funds. Since 1983 the Water Resources Board has approved over $3.9 billion in loans and grants for water and wastewater infrastructure improvements throughout Oklahoma.

“We are grateful to State Senator Paul Scott and State Representative Marcus McEntire for their continued support of water and wastewater infrastructure funding in Oklahoma,” said Julie Cunningham, OWRB Executive Director.

The wastewater project will rehabilitate the Authority’s wastewater treatment plant by replacing the flow equalization basin return gate and the UV treatment unit, introducing SCADA improvements and rehabilitating the gravity sludge thickener and the surface aerator.

The water system project will rehabilitate the Authority’s water treatment plant by installing high service pumps, introducing improvements in the solids handling process, convert the existing free-chlorine disinfection system to a chloramine system and introduce remote main break detectors. Finally, the Authority will replace the existing 6 and 10-inch water lines which are in poor condition, install 7,000 linear feet of new water line, and construct a new one million gallon composite elevated water tank.

According to Joe Freeman, chief of the OWRB’s Financial Assistance Division, the Authority’s customers will save an estimated $1,132,000 over the life of the 20-year loan compared to traditional financing. The loan shall be secured with a lien on the revenues of the Authority’s water, sewer and sanitation systems and a 2% sales tax. Steven Baldridge, Okmulgee’s Mayor and Chairman, attended the OWRB’s monthly meeting in support of the loan application. Mr. Baldridge stated, “We appreciate the investment this board has given to Okmulgee. This is vital to our community.”

Since 1983, the Oklahoma Water Resources Board has approved over $3.9 billion in loans and grants for water and wastewater infrastructure improvements throughout Oklahoma.

“We are grateful to State Senator Roger Thompson and Representative Scott Fetgatter, for their support of our financial assistance programs,” said Julie Cunningham, Executive Director of the OWRB.

The Authority's collection system consists of six and eight-inch gravity sewer lines, one lift station with submersible pumps and a lagoon system for treatment. The collection system has been deteriorating due to high levels of inflow and infiltration. The proposed project consists of rehabilitating the sewer collection system by replacing deficient manholes and sewer lines. The projected cost of the project is $99,999 which is the amount of the requested OWRB REAP Grant.

Joe Freeman, chief of the OWRB's Financial Assistance Division, calculated that the grant will save the Authority’s customers $179,998 in principal and interest charges by not having to borrow the project funds. Since 1983 the Water Resources Board has approved over $3.9 billion in loans and grants for water and wastewater infrastructure improvements throughout Oklahoma.

“We are grateful to State Senators Frank Simpson Josh Brecheen and House Speaker Charles McCall for their continued support of water and wastewater infrastructure funding in Oklahoma,” said Julie Cunningham, OWRB Executive Director.

The Authority operates 34 water wells with a total estimated pumping capacity of 6,433 gallons per minute (gpm). The Authority aims to drill 10 test holes and 6 new permanent production wells with a capacity of approximately 1,390 gpm (2 MGD) to meet current and future demand as well as anticipated water quality regulations. The proposed project will include costs for engineering design, land acquisition, inspections, test hole drilling, well drilling and completion, distribution piping, fire hydrants and appurtenances for expansion of the Authority’s water supply well field.

According to Joe Freeman, chief of the OWRB’s Financial Assistance Division, the Authority’s customers will save an estimated $1,918,000 over the life of the 20-year loan compared to traditional financing. The loan shall be secured with a lien on the revenues of the Authority’s water and sewer systems. Local officials attending the OWRB’s monthly meeting in support of the loan application included Chris Mattingly, Capital Projects Engineer and Ken Komiske, Director of Utilities. Mr. Komiske expressed his thanks by stating, “This is good for our community. We appreciate it.”

Since 1983, the Oklahoma Water Resources Board has approved over $3.9 billion in loans and grants for water and wastewater infrastructure improvements throughout Oklahoma.

“We are grateful to the State Legislators representing Norman for their support of our financial assistance programs,” said Julie Cunningham, Executive Director of the OWRB.

The Authority's project will address the replacement of approximately 95,000 linear feet of damaged sewer collection lines across eleven sub-basins, the North Wolf Creek Expansion and the South Wolf Creek Expansion. The line replacement will help improve inflow and infiltration problems and eliminate sanitary sewer overflows while continuing to protect the local water from future degradation.

Joe Freeman, Chief of the OWRB’s Financial Assistance Division, calculated that the Authority’s customers will save an estimated $2,178,000 over the life of the approximately 19-year loan compared to traditional financing. The CWSRF loan will be secured with a lien on the revenues of the Authority’s water, sewer and sanitation systems. Rusty Whisenhunt, Director of Field Utilities Maintenance and Construction, for Lawton Water Authority attended the OWRB’s monthly meeting in support of the loan application. Mr. Whisenhunt expressed the Authority’s thanks by stating, “We appreciate you (the OWRB) very much.”

The CWSRF program is administered by the Oklahoma Water Resources Board with partial funding from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Oklahoma utilizes the CWSRF to provide communities the resources necessary to maintain and improve the infrastructure that protects our valuable water resources statewide.

Since 1983, the Oklahoma Water Resources Board has approved over $3.9 billion in loans and grants for water and wastewater infrastructure improvements throughout Oklahoma.

“We are grateful to the State Legislators representing Lawton for their support of our financial assistance programs,” said Julie Cunningham, Executive Director of the OWRB.

Cleveland will utilize the loan proceeds to improve water quality and address current regulations. The Authority is proposing the construction of a new water treatment plant, including the construction of water mains, a treated water storage tank, water treatment process units, chlorine disinfection unit, SCADA and other control systems, AMR meters, waste lift station, a backup generator and office, chemical storage and lab buildings.

According to Joe Freeman, chief of the OWRB’s Financial Assistance Division, the Authority’s customers will save an estimated $1,400,000 over the life of the 20-year loan compared to traditional financing. The loan shall be secured with a lien on the revenues of the Authority’s water, sewer, gas and sanitation systems and a one cent sales tax. Local officials attending the OWRB’s monthly meeting in support of the loan application included Councilman, Brian Torres and City Manager, Elzie Smith. Mr. Torres expressed the Authority’s appreciation for funding by stating, “Thank you for allowing us to borrow.”

Since 1983, the Oklahoma Water Resources Board has approved over $3.9 billion in loans and grants for water and wastewater infrastructure improvements throughout Oklahoma.

“We are grateful to State Senator AJ Griffin and State Representative Dennis Casey, for their support of our financial assistance programs,” said Julie Cunningham, Executive Director of the OWRB.

The Authority has experienced raw sewage buildup after having two pumps fail at the system's main lift station. The Authority has been operating a back-up pump, but is in need of a long-term solution. The proposed project will replace the failed lift station with two submersible pumps on rails, equipped with controls and alarms. The total cost of the project is $210,000 which will be funded by the OWRB Emergency Grant in the amount of $73,000 and $137,000 in local funds.

Joe Freeman, chief of the OWRB's Financial Assistance Division, calculated that the grant will save the Authority’s customers $131,400 in principal and interest charges by not having to borrow the project funds. Since 1983 the Water Resources Board has approved over $3.9 billion in loans and grants for water and wastewater infrastructure improvements throughout Oklahoma. Cherokee Development Authority’s official attending the OWRB’s monthly meeting in support of the emergency grant application was Chairperson, Karen Hawkins, Don Bowman, City Manager, and Cole Bond of Cardinal Engineering.

“We are grateful to State Senator Roland Pederson and State Representative Carl Newton for their continued support of water and wastewater infrastructure funding in Oklahoma,” said Julie Cunningham, OWRB Executive Director.

The District will utilize the proceeds to construct 23,232 linear feet of six-inch potable waterline, 65 linear feet of three-inch potable waterline, 12,162 linear feet of two-inch potable waterline. This project will provide benefit to residents and businesses in and near the District by replacing old deteriorated waterlines to help prevent contamination of the public water supply and reduce water loss. These steps will assist the District in meeting the State of Oklahoma’s Water for 2060 goals.

Joe Freeman, Chief of the OWRB’s Financial Assistance Division, calculated that the District’s customers will save an estimated $338,000 over the life of the 30-year loan, compared to traditional financing. The DWSRF loan will be secured with a lien on the revenues of the District’s water system. District officials attending the OWRB’s monthly meeting in support of the loan application included Chairman, Fred Kappus and TJ Meschberger, District Manager. Mr. Kappus expressed the District’s thanks for funding by stating, “Appreciate your help in consideration of our problem.”

The DWSRF program is administered by the OWRB and the Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality (ODEQ) with partial funding from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The DWSRF program has provided approximately $1.25 billion in drinking water loans to provide communities the resources necessary to maintain and improve the infrastructure that protects our valuable water resources statewide.

Since 1983, the Oklahoma Water Resources Board has approved over $3.9 billion in loans and grants for water and wastewater infrastructure improvements throughout Oklahoma.

Julie Cunningham, Executive Director of the OWRB, and Scott Thompson, Executive Director of the ODEQ, express their sincere appreciation to State Senator Lonnie Paxton and State Representatives Rhonda Baker and Mike Sanders for their support of the DWSRF program.

Adair's water distribution system has experienced excessive leaks due to line breaks in old distribution lines ranging from 40 to 60 years in age. The water system project will replace the old lines with 2,300 linear feet of new 6-inch line and provide and install 210 feet of three-fourths inch HDPE service line. These improvements will eliminate health and safety issues as well as conserve water. The estimated total project cost is $99,900 which is the amount of the requested OWRB REAP Grant.

Joe Freeman, chief of the OWRB's Financial Assistance Division, calculated that the grant will save Adair’s water customers $179,820 in principal and interest charges by not having to borrow the project funds. Since 1983 the Water Resources Board has approved over $3.9 billion in loans and grants for water and wastewater infrastructure improvements throughout Oklahoma.

“We are grateful to State Senator Michael Bergstrom and State Representative Chuck Hoskin for their continued support of water and wastewater infrastructure funding in Oklahoma,” said Julie Cunningham, OWRB Executive Director.

Oklahoma's "beneficial uses" form the backbone of the state's Water Quality Standards, and are assigned to individual lakes, streams, and stream segments based upon the primary public benefits derived from those waters. Currently recognized beneficial uses of Oklahoma water include public and private water supply, fish and wildlife propagation, agriculture, primary body contact recreation (such as swimming), secondary body contact recreation (such as boating or fishing), navigation, and aesthetics.

"The BUMP water quality annual reports are the culmination of a year’s worth of field and lab work," said OWRB Executive Director Julie Cunningham. "The OWRB’s monitoring programs exist due to the vital economic and social importance of Oklahoma's lakes, streams, wetlands, and aquifers as well as the associated need for their protection and management."

The water data contained in the OWRB's annual BUMP report is collected from about 130 lakes and 100 stream segments at approximately 600 sites throughout Oklahoma. The Groundwater Monitoring and Assessment Program (GMAP), added to BUMP in 2012, consists of a network of approximately 750 wells in Oklahoma's 21 major aquifers, where the OWRB monitors both water levels and water quality.

"Oklahomans can be proud of the scientific expertise, professionalism, and dedication of the OWRB's water quality standards staff and water monitoring teams. The BUMP monitors are out sampling during all sorts of conditions, year-round, to make sure Oklahoma's water planners have the comprehensive water quality data they need," said Bill Cauthron, chief of the OWRB's Water Quality division.

For lake sampling, generally a minimum of three to five stations per lake are sampled depending on the size of the reservoir. Sampling stations are located to represent multiple zones of the lake with additional sites on many reservoirs as necessary. The stream monitoring network consists of permanent sampling stations in each of the state's 82 water planning basins, as outlined by the Oklahoma Comprehensive Water Plan, and a smaller network of additional reference sites. Assessing Oklahoma's groundwater is achieved through both a baseline monitoring network and a long-term (trend) monitoring network within each of the state's 21 major aquifers. This provides information on individual aquifer characteristics as well as a more general assessment of the Oklahoma's groundwater.

The 2017 lakes, streams, and groundwater BUMP reports are available on the OWRB website. Each stream, lake, and well site featured in the report includes a detailed fact sheet and map of data collection sites.

For additional information, visit the OWRB's Monitoring & Assessment page.

The Authority operates a wastewater collection system consisting of sewer lines, one (1) lift station and a master connection to the town of Ringling’s sewer system. Currently, the lift station’s pumps are not operational which poses an immediate health hazard to residents. The Mayor of Cornish currently operates the lift station manually on a daily basis to prevent sewage back up. The OWRB Emergency Grant will allow for installation of new pumps, a new float system, a new control panel and other appurtenances at the lift station to eliminate the need for manual operation.

The estimated total cost of the project is $80,900 and will be funded by the OWRB grant and $12,135 in local funds. Joe Freeman, chief of the OWRB's Financial Assistance Division, calculated that the grant will save the Authority’s customers $123,777 in principal and interest charges, by not having to borrow the project funds. Since 1983, the Water Resources Board has approved over $3.9 billion in loans and grants for water and wastewater infrastructure improvements throughout Oklahoma. Cornish Public Works Authority’s official attending the OWRB’s monthly meeting in support of the emergency grant application was Cornish’s Mayor, Jack Ferguson.

“We are grateful to State Senator Chris Kidd and State Representative Marcus McEntire for their continued support of water and wastewater infrastructure funding in Oklahoma,” said Julie Cunningham, OWRB Interim Executive Director.

The Authority’s project includes the construction of a new two million gallon elevated storage tank at the Danforth Road location, and the completion of construction of a water system control building for hub operations at the Arcadia water treatment plant. The new Arcadia water plant control building will be a hub for water operations to monitor water quality at the treatment plant as well as the ground water wells and the storage tanks in the distribution system.

Joe Freeman, Chief of the OWRB’s Financial Assistance Division, calculated that the Authority’s customers will save an estimated $341,000 over the life of the 20-year loan compared to traditional financing. The DWSRF loan will be secured with a lien on the revenues of the Authority’s water, sewer, sanitation and electrical revenues and a pledge of 2% in sales tax.

Edmond Public Works Authority’s officials attending the OWRB’s monthly meeting in support of the loan application was Steve Lawrence, City Engineering Services Supervisor. In addressing the board, Lawrence commented, “These loan programs are good tools to minimize the financial impact to our rate payers.”

The DWSRF program is administered by the OWRB and the Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality (ODEQ) with partial funding from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The DWSRF program has provided approximately $1.23 billion in drinking water loans to provide communities the resources necessary to maintain and improve the infrastructure that protects our valuable water resources statewide.

Since 1983, the Oklahoma Water Resources Board has approved over $3.9 billion in loans and grants for water and wastewater infrastructure improvements throughout Oklahoma.

Julie Cunningham, Executive Director of the OWRB, and Scott Thompson, Executive Director of the ODEQ, express their sincere appreciation to State Senator Adam Pugh and Representative Jason Murphey for their support of the DWSRF program.

The Authority will be using DWSRF funds to rehabilitate the water treatment plant clarifier, construct a new water storage tank, and sandblast and paint three existing water storage tanks. The modificiations will allow the plant to continue to meet the federal and state drinking water standards and provide capacity to meet customers' water supply need. Also, rehabilitation of two storage tanks in the distrubtion system will provide continuous adequate water supply to the public.

Joe Freeman, Chief of the OWRB’s Financial Assistance Division, calculated that the Authority’s customers will save an estimated $203,000 over the life of the 25-year loan compared to traditional financing. The DWSRF loan will be secured with a lien on the revenues of the Authority’s water, sewer, sanitation and gas systems and a one (1) cent sales tax. Jay Utilities Authority’s official attending the OWRB’s monthly meeting in support of the loan application was Darren Cook, Jay’s City Attorney.

The DWSRF program is administered by the OWRB and the Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality (ODEQ) with partial funding from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The DWSRF program has provided approximately $1.23 billion in drinking water loans to provide communities the resources necessary to maintain and improve the infrastructure that protects our valuable water resources statewide.

Since 1983, the Oklahoma Water Resources Board has approved over $3.9 billion in loans and grants for water and wastewater infrastructure improvements throughout Oklahoma.

Julie Cunningham, Executive Director of the OWRB, and Scott Thompson, Executive Director of the ODEQ, express their sincere appreciation to State Senator Michael Bergstrom and State Representative Josh West for their support of the DWSRF program.

The Authority will use the funds to construct gravity sewer lines, to build a lift station and force main, to install sewer pipeline inspection components and to perform upgrades on the wastewater treatment plant which will enable the full utilization of the plant’s treatment capacity. These plant upgrades will help to extend the design life of the equipment and allow the plant to continue to meet effluent discharge permit limits while providing reliable service for community residents and businesses in the area.

Joe Freeman, Chief of the OWRB’s Financial Assistance Division, calculated that the Authority’s customers will save an estimated $417,000 over the life of the 26-year loan, compared to traditional financing. The CWSRF loan will be secured with a lien on the revenues of the Authority’s water, sewer, sanitation and storm water systems and a 1.3% pledge in sales tax. Sapulpa Municipal Authority’s officials attending the OWRB’s monthly meeting in support of the loan application were Joan Riley, City Manager, and David Widdoes, City Attorney.

The CWSRF program is administered by the Oklahoma Water Resources Board with partial funding from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Oklahoma utilizes the CWSRF to provide communities the resources necessary to maintain and improve the infrastructure that protects our valuable water resources statewide.

Since 1983, the Oklahoma Water Resources Board has approved over $3.9 billion in loans and grants for water and wastewater infrastructure improvements throughout Oklahoma.

“We are grateful to State Senator James Leewright and State Representative Mark Lawson for their support of our financial assistance programs,” said Julie Cunningham, Executive Director of the OWRB.

"With its diverse geography and intense weather patterns, Oklahoma is no stranger to experiencing floods in one area of the state while being impacted by drought conditions in another," said OWRB Executive Director Julie Cunningham. "What we’ve seen recently in parts of Oklahoma, with heavy precipitation dropped in a span of minutes, shows why Oklahomans must be prepared. Floods can occur quickly, often lead to tragic loss of life, and cause a significant amount property damage."

Cunningham suggests that flood preparation starts with making a plan for what to do before, during, and after a flood event. Before a flood, Oklahomans should determine if they live in or near a floodplain, check their flood insurance status, learn the flood-warning system in their community, and find the safest route from their home to higher ground. Other preparations include:

• Make a list of your possessions. You should itemize your personal property, such as clothing, furnishings, and other valuables. Photos of your property are also helpful.
• Keep a battery-operated radio and flashlight ready and in good working order. Have emergency food, water, and medical supplies on hand.
• Keep valuables, legal documents, and insurance policies safe.

During a flood, water levels and flow can quickly change. Remain aware and monitor local radio and television outlets. Avoid flood waters on foot or by vehicle at all costs. Evacuate immediately when water starts to rise. Other factors to be considered during a flood include:

• Don't walk through flood waters. It only takes 6 inches of moving water to knock you off your feet. Floodwaters may hide submerged electric lines, waste/chemicals, or other harmful debris.
• If you are trapped by moving water, move to the highest possible point and call 911 if possible.
• Turn Around Don’t Drown! Do NOT drive into flooded roadways or around a barricade. 12 inches of water can float a car or small SUV, and 18 inches can carry away large vehicles.

After a flood, Oklahomans should stay tuned to your local news for updated information on road conditions, water quality issues, and other public directives regarding the flood disaster area. Additional items to consider following a flood:

• Ensure water is safe to drink, cook or clean with after a flood. Authorities may ask you to boil water for a while after a flood. If you have domestic water use well that was flooded, a water quality test is strongly encouraged.
• Heed “Road Closed” signs and other traffic control measures, and do not visit disaster areas. Your presence may hamper rescue and other emergency operations.
• Do not enter a flood damaged home or building until you're given the “All Clear” by authorities. Before entering, make sure the electrical system has been turned off. Have the power company or a qualified electrician fix wires. Contact your insurance agent to discuss property damage. If you have a generator, follow proper safety procedures.

For more information, visit: http://www.owrb.ok.gov/floodplain OR https://www.floodsmart.gov/.

The Authority operates a sewer collection system with lift stations that serves 304 customers. The Authority is experiencing overflows and unpermitted discharges. The lift stations are also experiencing electrical problems. The proposed project consists of installing chopper pumps at the lift stations, locking manhole lids, installing manhole extension rings and all other related construction as needed.

Joe Freeman, chief of the OWRB's Financial Assistance Division, calculated that the grant will save the Authority’s customers $143,998 in principal and interest charges, by not having to borrow the project funds. Since 1983 the Water Resources Board has approved over $3.9 billion in loans and grants for water and wastewater infrastructure improvements throughout Oklahoma.

“We are grateful to Senator Larry Boggs and Representative Brian Renegar for their continued support of water and wastewater infrastructure funding in Oklahoma,” said Julie Cunningham, OWRB Executive Director.

The District services approximately 52 customers with a mixture of both residential and agriculture connections. The District has over 30 miles of waterlines, two water wells and a standpipe for water storage. The existing water distribution system experiences low pressure conditions during peak consumption. The proposed project includes the installation of a 5,000 gallon pressure tank which will establish a pressurized water supply in the system at all times.

Joe Freeman, chief of the OWRB's Financial Assistance Division, calculated that the grant will save the District’s customers $179,998 in principal and interest charges, by not having to borrow the project funds. Since 1983 the Water Resources Board has approved over $3.9 billion in loans and grants for water and wastewater infrastructure improvements throughout Oklahoma.

“We are grateful to Senator Casey Murdock for his continued support of water and wastewater infrastructure funding in Oklahoma,” said Julie Cunningham, OWRB Executive Director.

The District will use the funds to construct approximately 47,700 linear feet of 8-inch potable waterline, approximately 3,800 linear feet of 6-inch potable waterline, approximately 1,700 linear feet of 10-inch potable waterline, four booster chlorination stations, three high service pumps, and other related items as needed. This project will connect Pittsburg County Rural Water District No. 14 to Pittsburg County Water Authority. The project will help meet the State of Oklahoma’s Water for 2060 goals.

Joe Freeman, Chief of the OWRB’s Financial Assistance Division, calculated that the District’s customers will save an estimated $1,875,000 compared to traditional financing. The DWSRF loan will be secured with a lien on the revenues of the District’s water system. Pittsburg County Rural Water District No. 14’s officials attending the OWRB’s monthly meeting in support of the loan application included Ray Miller, District Chairman, Vivian Moody, District Manager and Dale Burke and Crysta Watson from Infrastructure Solutions Group, LLC.

The DWSRF program is administered by the OWRB and the Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality (ODEQ) with partial funding from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The DWSRF program has provided approximately $1.23 billion in drinking water loans to provide communities the resources necessary to maintain and improve the infrastructure that protects our valuable water resources statewide.

Since 1983, the Oklahoma Water Resources Board has approved over $3.9 billion in loans and grants for water and wastewater infrastructure improvements throughout Oklahoma.

Julie Cunningham, Executive Director of the OWRB, and Scott Thompson, Executive Director of the ODEQ, express their sincere appreciation to State Senator Larry Boggs and State Representative Brian Renegar for their support of the DWSRF program.

Water Appreciation Day presents a unique opportunity for water-focused groups to demonstrate the importance of Oklahoma's water resources as well as provide information on their water management, conservation, and educational programs for state legislators and other government officials.

"No natural resource is as vital to the welfare of Oklahoma as clean, accessible water, of which more than 1.5 trillion gallons are used every day throughout the state," says Julie Cunningham, OWRB Executive Director. "The proper care and management of water is vital to Oklahoma's agriculture production, municipal development, business and industry, outdoor recreation, and so much more."

In addition to the OWRB, a number of academic institutions, civic organizations, and state and federal agencies will be featured in the State Capitol exhibition on March 20 including:

• Arkansas Grand Regional Authority
• Blue Thumb
• Grand River Dam Authority
• Keep Oklahoma Beautiful
• Oka' Institute
• Oklahoma Climatological Survey
• Oklahoma Corporation Commission
• Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality
• Oklahoma Department of Mines
• Oklahoma Rural Water Association
• Oklahomans for Responsible Water Policy
• OWRB – Financial Assistance Division
• OWRB – Planning & Management Division
• OWRB – Water Quality Monitoring Division
• US Bureau of Reclamation
• USGS – Oklahoma Water Science Center
• Many others…

For more information on Water Appreciation Day, call Cole Perryman at 405-530-8942 or email cole.perryman@owrb.ok.gov.

"Oklahomans should take the first opportunity to get informed about nearby floodplains, floodplain development regulations, and make decisions about flood insurance and flood preparation," said OWRB Executive Director Julie Cunningham. "Given the dangerous and expensive nature of floods and the rapid timeframe in which they can occur, being ready for the next event is essential."

Some ways to get prepared before the flood include determining if you live in or near a floodplain, checking flood insurance status, and making a plan for what to do in the event of a flood.

Oklahoma Flood Facts

• There is statistically a 1 in 4 chance that your home will flood during a 30-year mortgage.
• Oklahomans have received nearly $200,000,000 in National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) payments.
• 30 percent of NFIP claims come from areas outside of the 100-year flood boundary.
• 403 Oklahoma counties, towns and tribes participate in the NFIP.

Am I near a floodplain?

• Check with your local floodplain administrator. To find yours, visit the OWRB Floodplain Management page.
• You can also check if you live in or near a floodplain by visiting the FEMA Flood Map Service Center.

Do I need flood insurance? Am I prepared for a flood event?

Your regular homeowner's insurance policy does not cover flood damages. Consequently, one of the best ways to lessen the impact of flooding is to purchase flood insurance. 403 Oklahoma communities have joined the NFIP, which makes affordable flood insurance available on almost any building and its contents. Although insurance can't prevent flooding, it can cover much of the costs (less the deductible) associated with flood damages.

To find out more about flood insurance eligibility and your property's exposure to flood risk, contact any licensed property or casualty insurance agent or broker, or call the NFIP's toll free number, 1-800-638-6620.

Additional basic preparations for an eventual flood event:

• Learn the flood-warning system in your community. Find the safest route from your home to higher ground, then practice taking the route with your entire family.
• Make a list of your possessions. You should itemize your personal property, such as clothing, furnishings, and other valuables. This will provide you with a good record that will support your flood insurance claims. Photos of your property are also helpful.
• Keep a battery-operated radio and flashlight ready and in good working order. Have emergency food, water, and medical supplies on hand. If your home is severely flood prone, consider stockpiling sandbags, plastic sheeting, and other materials that can be used to temporarily protect your property.
• Keep valuables, legal documents, and insurance policies safe.

The Authority will be using CWSRF funds for constructing a new lift station with a wet well, submersible pumps, emergency generator and boring under Minnehaha Creek to replace the 6-inch force main and 12-inch sewer line. Minnehaha Creek is on the state’s list of impaired waterbodies where water quality and habitat are not adequately supporting fish communities. This project will prevent further degradation to the already impaired creek.

Joe Freeman, Chief of the OWRB’s Financial Assistance Division, calculated that the Authority’s customers will save an estimated $77,000 over the life of the 20-year loan compared to traditional financing. The CWSRF loan will be secured with a lien on the revenues of the Authority’s water and sewer systems. Canton Public Works Authority’s official attending the OWRB’s monthly meeting in support of the loan application is consulting engineer, Rick Schlegel from Cardinal Engineering, Inc. Mr. Schlegel commented, “Canton wishes to express their appreciation of this project.”

The CWSRF program is administered by the Oklahoma Water Resources Board with partial funding from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Oklahoma utilizes the CWSRF to provide communities the resources necessary to maintain and improve the infrastructure that protects our valuable water resources statewide.

Since 1983, the Oklahoma Water Resources Board has approved over $3.9 billion in loans and grants for water and wastewater infrastructure improvements throughout Oklahoma.

“We are grateful to State Senator Darcy Jech and State Representative Mike Sanders, for their support of our financial assistance programs,” said Julie Cunningham, Executive Director of the OWRB.

The Authority operates a municipal water system that serves the Town of Duke and the Centralvue Rural Water System. The Authority has two sources of water; a series of wells to serve the rural system and purchased water from the City of Altus for the town. The water distribution system has a number of aging pipes, with some portions being over 100 years old. Recently, the Authority has been plagued with an excessive number leaks resulting in major water loss.

The proposed project will replace two sections of severely damaged 8-inch water mains. The estimated total cost of the project including all associated fees is $105,346 which will be funded by the OWRB REAP Grant of $98,000 and $7,346 in local funds.

Joe Freeman, chief of the OWRB's Financial Assistance Division, calculated that the grant will save the Authority’s customers $176,400 in principal and interest charges by not having to borrow the project funds. Since 1983 the Water Resources Board has approved over $3.9 billion in loans and grants for water and wastewater infrastructure improvements throughout Oklahoma.

“We are grateful to State Senator Mike Schulz and State Representative Charles Ortega for their continued support of water and wastewater infrastructure funding in Oklahoma,” said Julie Cunningham, OWRB Executive Director.

The Authority will utilize the proceeds to install approximately two miles of 12-inch water main from the water treatment plant to the Port Duncan Tank. This will maintain and improve the pressure in the distribution system along with providing a completion and connection of well six (6) to function as an additional water supply for the water system and back-up in case of emergency for residents and businesses in and near the Authority. The project will help meet the State of Oklahoma’s Water for 2060 goals.

Joe Freeman, Chief of the OWRB’s Financial Assistance Division, calculated that the Authority’s customers will save an estimated $122,000 over the life of the 20-year loan compared to traditional financing. The DWSRF loan will be secured with a lien on the revenues of the Authority’s water and sewer systems. Grand Lake Public Works Authority’s officials attending the OWRB’s monthly meeting in support of the loan application included Jim Anderson, District Manager, Don Kiser, Bond Counsel and David Crutchfield, Local Counsel. Mr. Anderson stated, “I would like to thank the Board. It is always good to work with.”

The DWSRF program is administered by the OWRB and the Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality (ODEQ) with partial funding from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The DWSRF program has provided approximately $1.2 billion in drinking water loans to provide communities the resources necessary to maintain and improve the infrastructure that protects our valuable water resources statewide.

Since 1983, the Oklahoma Water Resources Board has approved over $3.9 billion in loans and grants for water and wastewater infrastructure improvements throughout Oklahoma.

Julie Cunningham, Executive Director of the OWRB, and Scott Thompson, Executive Director of the ODEQ, express their sincere appreciation to State Senator Michael Bergstrom and State Representative Josh West for their support of the DWSRF program.

The District serves 261 water users and has no community sewer system. The water system consists of a pump station, two storage tanks (standpipes) and a distribution system. The exterior and interior of the standpipes are in need of repainting and installation of riser pipe for separate inlet and outlet pipe to meet Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality (ODEQ) regulations. The proposed project consists of repainting the exterior and interior of the standpipes, installation of in-tank piping and all other related construction and appurtenances. The projected cost of the project is $85,000 which is funded by OWRB REAP grant along with $25,000 in local funds.

Joe Freeman, chief of the OWRB's Financial Assistance Division, calculated that the grant will save the Authority’s customers $108,000 in principal and interest charges, by not having to borrow the project funds. Since 1983 the Water Resources Board has approved over $3.9 billion in loans and grants for water and wastewater infrastructure improvements throughout Oklahoma.

“We are grateful to State Senator Roger Thompson and State Representatives Scott Fetgatter and Steve Kouplen for their continued support of water and wastewater infrastructure funding in Oklahoma,” said Julie Cunningham, OWRB Executive Director.

The Authority will use the proceeds to refinance debt previously issued by Rural Development (RD). The original loans were used to construct a microfiltration membrane system water treatment plant and install three raw water pumps, a backwash lagoon and a 143,000 gallon standpipe.

According to Joe Freeman, chief of the OWRB’s Financial Assistance Division, the loan shall be secured with a lien on the revenues of the Authority’s water, sewer and sanitation systems. Local officials attending the OWRB’s monthly meeting in support of the loan application included Brad Scott, interim City Manager and Chris Wolff, Financial Advisor. Mr. Scott explained, “Waurika has worked to improve its financial situation and appreciated Board consideration.”

Since 1983, the Oklahoma Water Resources Board has approved over $3.9 billion in loans and grants for water and wastewater infrastructure improvements throughout Oklahoma.

"We are grateful to State Senator Chris Kidd and State Representative Marcus McEntire for their support of our financial assistance programs,” said Julie Cunningham, Executive Director of the OWRB.

The Authority serves 415 water and 291 sewer connections. The Authority is under Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality (ODEQ) consent order for permit violations and unpermitted discharge to an unnamed tributary of the Canadian River. The southwest part of the town has also experienced a number of sewer backups due to damaged pipes and root intrusion. The proposed project comprises pipe bursting to replace 350 linear feet of 8 inch sewer line, connecting 10 existing service connections to the new line and associated testing and traffic control costs. The estimated total cost of the project including all associated fees is $62,000 which will be funded with $46,500 of OWRB Emergency Grant funds and $15,500 in matching funds from the Authority.

Joe Freeman, chief of the OWRB's Financial Assistance Division, calculated that the grant will save the Authority’s customers $83,700 in principal and interest charges, by not having to borrow the project funds. Since 1983 the Water Resources Board has approved over $3.9 billion in loans and grants for water and wastewater infrastructure improvements throughout Oklahoma.

“We are grateful to State Senator Paul Scott and State Representative Tim Downing for their continued support of water and wastewater infrastructure funding in Oklahoma,” said Julie Cunningham, OWRB Executive Director.

The Authority's water distribution system is in need of repair and standardization, as many of its waterlines have exceeded their useful life and require replacement. The Authority is proposing to replace 3,800 linear feet of the existing water collection system consisting of 4 to 6-inch cast iron, steel and transite lines, with 6-inch PVC waterline. The estimated total project cost is $162,161, with $79,999 being funded through OWRB’s REAP grant and the remaining $82,162 provided by the Authority.

Joe Freeman, chief of the OWRB's Financial Assistance Division, calculated that the grant will save the Authority’s customers $81,438.98 in principal and interest charges, by not having to borrow the project funds. Since 1983 the Water Resources Board has approved over $3.8 billion in loans and grants for water and wastewater infrastructure improvements throughout Oklahoma.

“We are grateful to Senator Roland Pederson and Representative Carl Newton for their continued support of water and wastewater infrastructure funding in Oklahoma,” said Julie Cunningham, OWRB Executive Director.

The Trust will utilize the loan proceeds to: construct new clearwells at the Draper Water Treatment Plant (WTP); improve a booster pump station at the Hefner WTP; install transmission waterlines to connect the Hefner and Draper WTPs; connect dead-end water mains to improve service; eliminate undersized distribution mains; and replace water mains as required.

The projects will provide multiple water quality benefits for residents and businesses served by the Trust. The new clearwells at the Draper WTP will help maintain adequate disinfection, increase storage for the water system, and provide more reliable service compared to the existing clearwells. The upgrade to the booster pump station at the Hefner WTP will ensure adequate pressure is provided throughout the distribution system and provide more reliable and resilient service to customers. Installation of the transmission waterlines between the Hefner and Draper WTPs will upgrade the water transmission system to provide for redundancy during periods of drought and emergencies and also protect against outages by maintaining pressure and capacity. Connecting the dead end water mains, eliminating the undersized distribution mains, and replacing water mains will provide more reliable water mains to deliver sage drinking water to the public.

Joe Freeman, Chief of the OWRB’s Financial Assistance Division, said the DWSRF loan will be secured with a lien on the Trust’s water and sewer revenues. Attending the OWRB’s monthly meeting in support of the loan application was General Manager Chris Browning, Financial Operations Manager Billy Little, and Engineering Manager Sam Samandi. During the loan presentation at the OWRB Board meeting, Chris Browning stated, “On behalf of the Trust and the 1.2 million people we serve, we thank you all for the assistance throughout the years.”

The DWSRF program is administered by the OWRB and the Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality (ODEQ) with partial funding from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The DWSRF program has provided approximately $1.1 billion in drinking water loans to provide communities the resources necessary to maintain and improve the infrastructure that protects our valuable water resources statewide.

Since 1983, the Oklahoma Water Resources Board has approved over $3.8 billion in loans and grants for water and wastewater infrastructure improvements throughout Oklahoma.

Julie Cunningham, Executive Director of the OWRB, and Scott Thompson, Executive Director of the ODEQ, express their sincere appreciation to Oklahoma’s legislative delegation for their support of the DWSRF program.