CSWEA President's Message

100 Years of CSWEA

By Rich Hussey

I would like to start by congratulating Tim Wedin on a job well done along with his Local Arrangements Chair and Committee. It was a great conference in St. Paul and there were many successes at this event. They certainly should know how appreciative we are of all their efforts.

Well, that time has come. Central States Water Environment Association has officially reached and will celebrate its 100 th Anniversary! This is a remarkable achievement and as we can reflect on those early years and to those that helped create this organization, it is truly an honor and humbling experience to be serving as the President during this moment in time.

During these early years, most facilities focused on primary treatment, using screens and settling tanks to remove large debris and allow solids to sink out of sewage. Many plants had begun adopting early biological processes, such as trickling filters, where wastewater passed
over beds of stone coated with microorganisms that helped break down organics. The activated sludge process, obviously a major innovation developed in 1910 was just starting to be introduced in some cities, though it was not yet widespread. Overall, plants were designed mainly to reduce visible pollution and odors rather than fully protect waterways, and while they significantly improved public health conditions compared to earlier systems, untreated or partially treated wastewater was still commonly discharged into rivers and lakes. Just imagine if these early innovators saw our current wastewater treatment facilities and all the innovations and resource recovery efforts that are a common place in today’s facilities.

As Central States Water Environment Association (CSWEA) approaches this anniversary, it stands as a cornerstone organization in advancing water quality, environmental protection, and professional collaboration across the Midwest. Since its founding, CSWEA has played a vital role in shaping the science, policy, and practice of wastewater and water resource management, making its centennial a milestone worthy of reflection and celebration.

One of CSWEA’s most significant accomplishments has been its consistent leadership in improving water quality throughout Illinois, Wisconsin, and Minnesota. By bringing together engineers, operators, scientists, and regulators, the organization has helped drive innovation in wastewater treatment processes that protect public health and preserve natural ecosystems. Over the decades, CSWEA members have been instrumental in advancing technologies such as biological nutrient removal and energy-efficient treatment systems, contributing to cleaner rivers and lakes across the region.

Equally impactful has been CSWEA’s commitment to professional development and education. Through conferences, technical training sessions, and certification support, the association has elevated industry standards and ensured that water professionals remain at the forefront of emerging challenges. Its annual meeting has become one of the premier events in the water environment field, fostering collaboration and knowledge-sharing among thousands of professionals.

CSWEA has also demonstrated leadership in cultivating the next generation of water professionals. Student design competitions, scholarships, and mentorship initiatives have created pathways for young engineers and environmental scientists to enter and thrive in the industry. These efforts not only strengthen the workforce but also ensure continuity in addressing increasingly complex water issues such as aging infrastructure and resource recovery.

As CSWEA nears its 100th year, its legacy is defined by innovation, education, and stewardship. Its accomplishments serve not only as a testament to its history but also as a strong foundation for the challenges and opportunities ahead. We will certainly celebrate this at the upcoming conference in May. We have an amazing LAC Chair and Team. Amanda Streicher is leading the front and we know with that last name (certainly royalty in the IL wastewater industry), it will be the event to attend. I leaked out some of the details at the conference in St Paul, but for those who were not able to attend, here are a few of the highlights: Inflatable Sumo Wresting matches, Dunk Tank (Mo has agreed to sign up!), pursuit of a live band, and maybe, just maybe llamas walking around with sponsor logos on cloaks. Ok the last one may not be reality, but we are trying until we are officially told no. So put it on the calendar, we are going to be respectful, but at the same time have a little fun celebrating the rich history of this organization.