DENVER, CO, April 9, 2007 -- Water resources planners, managers and others will assess the risks of regional climate changes and determine impacts to management practices during an American Water Works Association (AWWA) seminar titled "Climate Change Impacts and Strategies," 8-5 p.m. April 20 at the Red Rocks Casino Resort Spa in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Registration information is available at http://www.awwa.org/education/seminars/index.cfm?SemID=65
The one-day seminar, hosted by Bob Raucher, PhD., and Joel B. Smith of Stratus Consulting, will tackle trends in climate change and their impacts on water utilities, including technological alternatives and potential capital investments. Through case studies, table-top exercises and networking opportunities, participants will develop strategies to tackle issues specific to their operations. Attending utilities will participate in a vulnerability assessment to determine projected impacts on their regions and identify ways to approach these issues locally.
Stratus Consulting offers clients expert technical knowledge and practical experience in environment and energy research. Raucher, founder and senior partner, has been actively involved in the water supply and wastewater community for over 25 years. Smith has been analyzing climate change impacts and adaptation issues for 20 years, serving previously as the deputy director of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's Climate Change Division.
The seminar begins with an overview of climate change science followed by the vulnerability assessment and group exercises. The day will conclude with attendees sharing key findings and ways to plan for future climate changes.
AWWA is the authoritative resource for knowledge, information and advocacy to improve the quality and supply of water in North America and beyond. AWWA is the largest organization of water professionals in the world. AWWA advances public health, safety and welfare by uniting the efforts of the full spectrum of the water community. Through our collective strength we become better stewards of water for the greatest good of the people and the environment.
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