The Mississippi Water and Pollution Control Operators’ Association, Inc. is an independent, non-profit organization managed by its membership and supported by membership subscriptions, short courses, the Mississippi State Department of Health and the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality, Office of Pollution Control.

Organized in 1961, the main objective of the Association is to protect the interests of water and pollution control operators in the State of Mississippi. The Association has worked for many years to improve operators’ training short courses. The Association instituted a voluntary operator certification program in 1972 and succeeded in obtaining passage of a law in 1986, the “Municipal and Domestic Water and Wastewater System Operator’s Certification Act of 1986,” which made the certification of operators mandatory after July 1, 1987. This law provides job security and improved benefits for operators, as well as providing better quality water and a safer environment for customers.

The development and dissemination of water quality information is another important goal.

MWPCOA is divided into nine district associations statewide. These districts hold monthly or bi-monthly meetings where ideas and information on operating problems are exchanged. Usually a short program of a technical nature is presented.

MWPCOA welcomes new members. Presently there are over 1,750 members. If you are engaged in the production, treatment, or distribution of water or engaged in the collection, treatment, or disposal of municipal, domestic, or industrial wastes, you are encouraged to join this Association. Others associated with this industry and who are interested in the well-being of water and pollution control operator’s are also welcome. The membership fee is $100.00 for a three (3) year period.