Leading by Example in BC: Water Smart Initiative in the Columbia Basin region
Note to Reader:
All across British Columbia, water utility operators in rural areas can face challenges in keeping up with their mandatory certifications. But one water operator in the Columbia Basin region is piloting a new approach that may transform water operator training in the province.
“Innovative peer-to-peer training model for water utility operators will support improved outcomes in water demand management in BC,” reports Meredith Hamstead, Coordinator, Columbia Basin Water Smart
Jesse Reel, Water Utility Manager, City of Castlegar
Jesse Reel, Water Utility Manager with the City of Castlegar, is piloting an innovative Environmental Operators Certification Program-certified peer-to-peer approach to operator training with the nearby Glade Irrigation District. This pilot builds on momentum gained through the Columbia Basin Water Smart water loss management training courses during the period from 2011-2013.
“We think this this model will allow water operators to both deliver and receive certified training within their local areas, in small groups, and using hands-on, practical exercises as opposed to traditional classroom based learning” says Jesse. “Delivering peer-to-peer training is a win-win for me and for the City because my expertise is really growing”.
Joe McGowan, Public Works Manager for the City of Cranbrook has been mentoring Jesse through the process. He says “this new peer-to-peer training model will boost more traditional training models by allowing our region’s resident experts to teach the practical skills that they know so well, which will further their and their peer’s expertise and their own, while also earning mandatory continuing education units (CEUs) – this approach will provide clear benefit for local governments and their water operators”.
“Exploration of an innovative peer-to-peer training model for water utility operators is presenting a unique opportunity for professional development that will support improved outcomes in water demand management in B.C,” concludes Meredith Hamstead, Coordinator, Columbia Basin Water Smart.
To Learn More:
Read the complete story here, or, go to the most recent Water Smart newsletter for more Water Smart news.
Water Smart provides support to participating regional districts, municipalities and First Nations in the Columbia Basin to assess and address their water conservation needs and plan for the most locally effective actions to reduce community-wide water consumption. Learn more at www.cbt.org/watersmart. For more information contact Meredith Hamstead.
