During the pandemic, NACWA has engaged with the National League of Cities (NLC) to share information regarding the growth of wastewater-based epidemiology. The NLC is launching a new initiative and is seeking interested POTW and local governments to participate. A synopsis of this effort and contact information is below for interested utilities.  

The National League of Cities (NLC) and WastewaterSCAN have launched a national initiative to expand wastewater monitoring for SARS-CoV-2 (the virus that causes COVID-19) and its variants, monkeypox, flu, and other viruses to more municipal wastewater systems. Participating communities can leverage wastewater monitoring data to further inform the management of ongoing public health actions and to help prepare for the next public health emergency.  

This initiative will bring a leading approach to wastewater monitoring, create a learning cohort among participating communities to identify and share best practices, and strengthen collaboration among local elected leaders, professionals managing wastewater treatment facilities, and local health departments—all of which support improved community health outcomes. The initiative will support cities in making the right connections between the utility and the health department, so these relationships do not to be in place prior to participating. 

There is no cost to participate in the NLC WastewaterSCAN Learning Cohort and a stipend is available to support sample collection. The program will begin in December 2022 and run throughout 2023. To learn more and sign up to become part of this national effort, visit the NLC website here or contact WWCohort@nlc.org. Additional information can be found in NLC’s Fact Sheet and FAQ/messaging document.