Walkerton, ON — The Walkerton Clean Water Centre (WCWC) has released its 2023–24 annual report, highlighting its continued expansion of training programs and support for First Nations communities across Ontario. Over the past year, WCWC delivered high-quality mandatory and specialized training to nearly 7,500 participants through classroom, correspondence, e-learning, and live virtual formats, including the launch of the new Mandatory Certificate Renewal Course (2024-26) in January.

Seven additional virtual and e-learning courses were introduced, designed to increase training affordability, flexibility, and accessibility for water sector professionals.

WCWC’s commitment to supporting First Nations drinking water initiatives remained central, with targeted courses like the Entry-Level Course for Drinking Water Operators for First Nations and Managing Drinking Water Systems in First Nations Communities. Eighteen specialized course sessions focused on optimizing drinking water systems within these communities.

The Centre’s Technology Demonstration Facility facilitated 11 pilot projects, providing vital data on source water quality, treatment performance, and alternative technologies for vulnerable water systems, with three more projects underway at the fiscal year’s end. Technical tours welcomed 355 students and trainees, offering firsthand exposure to safe drinking water practices.

Research into service needs and gaps for First Nations drinking water systems, along with a new focus on wastewater training needs for Ontario operators, will guide WCWC’s future program development and ensure its offerings continue to address emerging challenges in water safety and management. The full report is available at wcwc.ca.

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