AWWA ACE26 Conference Program Guide June 2026 | Page 28

TRACK DESCRIPTIONS

ADVANCES
IN WATER TREATMENT Explore recent developments in water treatment challenges and solutions. Topics include best practices for conventional / biological filtration, inorganic contaminant control, optimization of treatment system performance, and more. Engage with case studies that offer practical examples of successful solutions in action, or with our 101 Series for fundamentals.
RESEARCH Water research plays a crucial role in advancing our understanding of water issues and developing innovative solutions. Researchers will showcase cutting-edge processes and technologies related to the water ecosystem and tackle the most challenging water contaminants. University Forums highlight the latest in academic research.
INFRASTRUCTURE MANAGEMENT Water infrastructure involves a significant capital investment for a community; preserving its value is crucial. An asset management approach that incorporates inventories and condition assessments enables data-driven decisions on budgets while maintaining service levels. Learn about risk assessment, O & M, and asset management tools and strategies.
DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM OPERATION AND MANAGEMENT Aging and deteriorating pipe infrastructure presents a serious yet actionable problem. Sessions will feature innovations, approaches, and technologies for assessing, designing, and managing the rehabilitation or replacement of distribution systems. Plant safety, AMR / AMI, system flushing, and cross-connection control will be covered.
FOCUS ON PFAS Growing concern about the presence of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances( PFAS) in drinking water has increased awareness of broader issues related to emerging contaminants. Understanding their formation, treatment, destruction, and communication is crucial to help utilities take the next step in regulatory compliance.
INTELLIGENT WATER Intelligent water combines smart technologies with data-driven solutions to efficiently manage and use water resources. Using sensors, automation, and data analytics, intelligent water systems monitor water quality, distribution, and usage. Models and digital twins utilize this information to create predictive scenarios, helping systems operate more effectively and meet treatment goals.
CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS Water systems are a vital yet costly component of every community, scrutinized by policymakers and ratepayers. Capital improvement projects encompass the design, construction, and delivery of essential water infrastructure improvements. Explore innovative and sustainable designs, new building techniques and materials, and project delivery strategies.
THE LATEST ON LEAD AND COPPER To comply with the Lead & Copper Rule Revisions, water utilities need resources to develop lead-reduction plans and implement corrosion-control measures. This session provides insights into the ruling’ s impacts, helping stakeholders stay up to date and prepare for changes.
REGULATORY AND LEGISLATIVE ACTIONS With constantly evolving regulation, compliance, and policy issues, there’ s always something new to address on the regulatory front. Uncover the latest developments on current issues and capture valuable tips for managing federal, state, provincial, and local issues that affect utility operations, management, and ultimately, the bottom line.
WATER 2050 AND THE FUTURE OF WATER | ROUNDTABLE SESSIONS The Water 2050 initiative aims to create a secure, sustainable, and resilient water future for everyone. Sessions will cover current and future work in finance and affordability, real-time monitoring, technological innovations, circular water economies, one-water governance, the water workforce, and community involvement.
ACE26 CONFERENCE | ACE. AWWA. ORG 15