It’s Award Season!

WRF is now accepting nominations for the Subscriber Impact Award, the Research Innovation Award, and the Paul L. Busch Award. You can also sign up to participate in the IWS Challenge.

The Subscriber Impact Award honors subscribing utilities that have made notable improvements to their treatment, delivery, and/or management processes through the successful application of WRF research. Nominations are due by April 14.



The Research Innovation Award honors researchers and research teams who have made significant contributions to advancing the science of water through research sponsored by WRF. The award is presented in honor of Dr. Pankaj Parekh, who dedicated his life to protecting public health. Nominations are due by April 14.

The Paul L. Busch Award recognizes an individual for innovative research in the field of water quality and the water environment, with a special focus on those who show promise and make significant contributions in bridging research and its practical application. Recipients of the award are recognized and rewarded with a grant of $100,000 to continue their work, take risks, and explore new directions. Individuals from all segments of the water quality community are encouraged to apply. Nominations are due by June 1. Individuals may self-nominate or have their work submitted by a nominator.

The Intelligent Water Systems Challenge aims to demonstrate the value of intelligent water systems to utilities and thereby foster the adoption of smart water technologies. The intent of the Challenge is to give students, professionals, and technology aficionados the opportunity to showcase their talents and innovations, with a focus on leveraging data using the best available tools to help utilities better understand the dynamics of complex systems. Register a team by April 14.