The Water Research Foundation (WRF) is the leading nonprofit research organization dedicated to advancing the science of all aspects of water. Established in 2018 through the integration of three prestigious entities—WateReuse Research Foundation, Water Environment Research Foundation, and Water Research Foundation—WRF unites research on drinking water, wastewater, reuse, and stormwater into one holistic “One Water” approach. Operating as a 501(c)(3) educational organization, WRF funds, manages, and disseminates research to improve the technology, operation, and management of water systems across the globe. Its core mission is to ensure safe, reliable, and high-quality water services for the public by addressing complex water challenges through innovative research and collaboration. With a commitment to supporting the evolving needs of the water sector, WRF provides actionable knowledge to water utilities, regulators, and other stakeholders, enhancing their ability to manage water sustainably and efficiently.

This grant is offered under the Water Research Foundation’s Emerging Opportunities Program, which supports timely and targeted research to address urgent issues within the water sector. The project aims to enhance nitrification risk management in consecutive drinking water distribution systems. Specific goals include cataloging regulatory roles of wholesale and consecutive systems, identifying collaborative strategies, and developing best practices for effective communication and risk response. With rising use of chloramine for disinfection and growing concerns about nitrification, especially under warmer climate conditions, this research will fill vital gaps in current practices. The project will generate guidance materials and foster utility collaboration in light of anticipated revisions to the EPA’s Microbial and Disinfection Byproduct Rules. The deliverables will include a literature review, workshop, final report, webcast, and practical guidance documents. The overall objective is to improve water quality, operational efficiency, and public health protection through better inter-utility cooperation.