WEF Applauds Decision To Integrate Water Research Foundations

The Water Environment Federation (WEF) congratulates the Water Environment & Reuse Foundation (WE&RF) and Water Research Foundation (WRF) on their decision to merge into one water research organization.

The two foundations each have a rich history of effective and impactful research supporting the water profession and sector, and their integration will undoubtedly create more synergy and partnerships.

“The integration of WE&RF and WRF is a forward-focused, positive change that will bring tremendous value to the water sector, including WEF and its members,” WEF Executive Director Eileen O’Neill said. “WEF’s close partnerships with the water research community will continue and the integration of the two foundations will certainly provide new and exciting opportunities to advance our mission.”

WEF and its members supported the original founding of the Water Environment Research Foundation (WERF), WE&RF’s predecessor in 1989 showing WEF’s long-standing commitment to research and innovation. WEF has maintained a close, productive relationship with WERF and then with WE&RF, including nominating representatives to their Boards. In fact, at WEFTEC 2017, the WEF Board approved a $75,000 donation to support WE&RF research. WEF looks forward to strong collaboration with the new organization.

“All parts of the water sector and WEF members including utility managers, plant operators, engineers, scientists, regulators, and students share in the benefits of research and innovation,” said WEF President Jenny Hartfelder. “Together, we need to support science and advocate for research funding."

About WEF
The Water Environment Federation (WEF) is a not-for-profit technical and educational organization of 33,000 individual members and 75 affiliated Member Associations representing water quality professionals around the world. Since 1928, WEF and its members have protected public health and the environment. As a global water sector leader, our mission is to connect water professionals; enrich the expertise of water professionals; increase the awareness of the impact and value of water; and provide a platform for water sector innovation. For more information, visit www.wef.org.