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Earlier this year, David Boyer moved from the MassDEP Central Regional office to the Boston office to take the position of Director of the NPDES/Groundwater and Title 5 programs. YOWA Board Member Dan Ottenheimer conducted the following interview with David to introduce YOWA members to his background, goals and projects he strives to implement in […]

Each September, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) promotes SepticSmart Week to raise awareness about the importance of properly maintaining septic systems. While the official week has passed, the message remains just as relevant year-round—especially for those of us working in the wastewater industry. Septic systems are an essential, yet often overlooked, part of our

The National Onsite Wastewater Recycling Association’s (NOWRA) annual Onsite Wastewater Mega-Conference, which will take place October 19-22, 2025 in Sandusky, Ohio, stands out as the go-to event for professionals across the decentralized wastewater field—including soil evaluators and system inspectors. Here’s why: Broad, Relevant Educational Tracks No matter your role—installer, designer, regulator, inspector, or soil scientist—you’ll

50 Vermont licensed designers, state regional engineers, and regulators met at the Cote Recreational Field in Starksboro, Vermont on September 4 to talk about soil, hydrology, and wetlands and to get some hands on training. Layered Landscapes, a half-day soils training geared specifically for Vermont septic designers, was underway. Bruce Douglas, the program manager, and

On June 24th YOWA, in conjunction with MASSTC, held a full-day training with 6 hours of continuing education credits titled Innovative/Alternative (I/A) Systems Field Training. This was the first training event at MASSTC’s new facility. Five one-hour classroom presentations covering MADEP approved I/A treatment and dispersal technologies and O&M were followed by a tour of MASSTC’s

On May 20th, 2025, YOWA hosted a Soil Evaluation review day in Western Massachusetts. 29 participants attended and the training was provided by David Zimmerman and Morgan McKee from the Natural Resources Conservation Service at the USDA. We discussed soil disposition and landforms. NRCS reviewed soil resources including topographical maps and soil surveys. The group

Join us for an in-depth field workshop focused on soils, wastewater regulations, and jurisdictional impacts in the Lewis Creek watershed in Starksboro, VT on September 4th. This hands-on workshop brings together local experts and practitioners to explore how soil characteristics and regulatory frameworks intersect to affect wastewater planning and land development in sensitive environmental areas. 

Innovative/Alternative (I/A) SYSTEM FIELD TRAINING June 24, 2025, 8:00 am – 4:00 pmMASSTC, Sandwich, MA Please join YOWA for an all-day training event focusing on Innovative Alternative Treatment Systems (I/A).  Expand your I/A knowledge with presentations given on various onsite wastewater treatment and dispersal practices used here in New England.  Topics will include an overview

Looking for training? Need to keep your system inspector or soil evaluator license? YOWA members get easy and interesting training at their fingertips! Are you a Massachusetts System Inspector or Soil Evaluator who needs CEUs by the June renewal deadline?  Your onsite wastewater industry professionals at YOWA are here to help. Get your needed training,

Are You One of the 85% of Cape Cod Homeowners with a Septic System? If so, it’s important to stay informed about how to properly maintain your system and understand local regulations. MASSTC.org offers a wealth of free resources tailored specifically for homeowners on Cape Cod. Whether you’re looking for guidance on Title 5 regulations, septic system maintenance, or innovative/alternative