When disaster hits—whether it’s a tornado, flood, or major equipment failure—rural water systems have to be ready. That’s why members of the Oklahoma Rural Water Association (ORWA) headed to Lonoke, Arkansas for the National Rural Water Association (NRWA) Emergency Response Training, hosted by the Arkansas Rural Water Association.
Circuit Riders Josh Walker and Travis Henry, Wastewater Technician Brad Rice, and ORWA CEO Jimmy Seago joined more than 100 rural water professionals from 27 states for the multi-day training. The goal? Strengthening the skills, knowledge, and teamwork it takes to respond fast and effectively when rural communities need help the most.
The training was hands-on and practical, with sessions covering everything from first aid and equipment deployment to coordination with emergency responders. One of the standout moments included a live electrical hazard demonstration by First Electric Cooperative—an eye-opening reminder of the real dangers responders face in the field.
“Opportunities like this give us the chance to not only sharpen our skills, but also connect with others doing the same work across the country,” said ORWA CEO Jimmy Seago. “When we all learn together, rural communities everywhere benefit.”
Events like this one don’t just build technical skills—they build a nationwide network of boots-on-the-ground professionals committed to keeping water systems running and rural America safe.
