A Drop of Knowledge - electronic newsletter (formerly eBulletin)

A Drop of Knowledge (formerly the eBulletin ) is one of RCAP’s main communications resources. It is an electronic newsletter delivered via email that provides tools focusing on issues facing water and wastewater systems and small, rural communities.

The newsletter's name reflects its purpose, to provide:

• useful, practical information – knowledge that you can put into action in your water or wastewater system or community
• a small amount of new knowledge – just enough to make a difference without requiring you to embark on large improvements that may be overwhelming

A Drop of Knowledge is designed for staff of water systems/utilities, board members and elected officials. It provides helpful tips, guides and resources on practical subjects and is written in plain English. The information it contains will help you make informed decisions to benefit your community, keep your system in compliance with Environmental Protection Agency regulations, and maintain water quality in the most proactive way. The newsletter provides information on the technical, managerial, financial and governance aspects of running a small water or wastewater system and will, on occasion, address security issues as its predecessor, the eBulletin, did.

• July: Back to basics: Building a budget [3] | Bonus article: Advice for managed onsite wastewater systems [4]
• June: Septic system basics for homeowners, community leaders, planners and realtors [5] (part 1)
• May: Don’t let a summer drought catch you off-guard [6]
• April: What is an onsite or decentralized wastewater system? [7]
• March: Use performance indicators to improve the operations of your utility [8]
• February: We all (even water utilities) need somebody to lean on [9]
• January: All employers need personnel policies and procedures. Yes, even small utilities. [10]

• December: Your responsibilities to your customers include overseeing cross-connections [11]
• November: What to expect when seeking funding for your utility [12]
• October: Wastewater treatment: The technical parts explained for non-technical people [13]
• September: Lay a foundation for your utility's future with financial planning [14]
• August: 'Meeting' your responsibilities for good order in your utility [15]
• July: Protecting your water system against the risks and effects of fire [16]
• June: Operating a water system: The technical parts explained for non-technical people [17]
• May: Five things you can do to save on energy in your utility [18]
• April: Mark Drinking Water Week in May [19]
• March: [20]How does the federal budget impact rural utilities? [20]
• February: Consumer Confidence Reports [21]