FWEA Focus—Ronald R. Cavalieri

President, FWEA

To all of my friends and colleagues at FWEA, FSAWWA, and FWPCOA, I want to express my deepest appreciation for your contributions to our organizations this past year. Thank you to all who are part of the noble profession that we serve. Utility managers and operators, consultants, contractors, equipment and material suppliers, regulators, and those in academia all play an important role in striving to achieve our vision of “a clean and sustainable water environment for Florida’s future generations.”

In Florida and throughout the United States we are blessed with an abundance of natural resources. Florida has abundant surface water resources, including coastal waters, lakes, rivers, streams, and springs. In addition, Florida has one of the most-plentiful freshwater aquifers in the nation, which supplies water to hundreds of springs and provides the base flow for many of Florida’s rivers and streams. The state’s surface water and groundwater resources are connected and support our drinking water supplies, agriculture, industry, wildlife habitat, and a vibrant and thriving economy.

While increasing population and emphasis on protecting the environment has put a stress on available resources, it has brought about a heightened awareness on the value of water. Florida’s water professionals are meeting this challenge through innovative technologies, such as direct and indirect potable reuse, and an integrated “one water” approach to water resource planning.

May your holidays be filled with love and joy. I hope you have a great time with your friends and family this holiday season.

Wishing you a Merry Christmas and a wonderful, happy, healthy, and prosperous New Year! S