National Rural Water Association - NRWA - WaterPro 2026
Event Date
September 14–16, 2026
Location
Phoenix, AZ
Expected Exhibitors
120
About This Show
AI-drafted summaryThe WaterPro Conference is the official annual conference of the National Rural Water Association (NRWA), widely known within the sector as the "Industry Event of the Year." It brings together water and wastewater professionals from across the country for three days of education, networking, and hands-on industry engagement. The 2026 edition takes place September 14-16 at the Phoenix Convention Center in downtown Phoenix, Arizona, using a two-day exhibit, three-day session format.
Attendees include utility managers, operators, board members, state association staff, and other decision-makers who serve small and rural water systems. The program is built around more than 70 concurrent educational sessions covering innovative technology, new regulations, funding, and operational best practices, alongside an exhibit hall filled with vendors and service providers focused on rural water solutions.
The conference is worth attending for its combination of practical education, peer networking, and access to suppliers. NRWA reports that educational sessions are the number one reason attendees prioritize the event, with networking and the exhibit hall following close behind, making WaterPro a central gathering point for the rural water community.
Show Highlights
WaterPro pairs a robust education program with signature competitions and social events. Key features include:
- 70+ concurrent educational sessions covering the full range of water and wastewater topics, including new USDA projects and EPA priorities.
- Exhibit Hall with 120+ exhibitors offering solutions for small and rural utilities, plus the Exhibit Hall Extravaganza sponsored by CoBank.
- WaterPro Feud – a game-show-style competition where State Association teams compete for prizes (sponsored by USABlueBook).
- Ultimate Meter Challenge Championships – a timed competition testing participants' ability to assemble a working meter (sponsored by Zenner Meter).
- Rural Water on Display Photo Contest – member photography judged across Tanks and Towers, Water in Rural America, and Waterworks categories.
- Women in Rural Water Luncheon – the 7th annual networking event for Rural Water champions.
- Friends of Rural Water Gala – an evening event supporting the organization's grassroots work.
- Facility Tour and a Spouse Session (Paint and Sip) as add-on experiences.
The Opening Session highlights guest speakers and expert voices from across the water/wastewater industry.
Attendance
NRWA reports the WaterPro Conference draws 2,000+ attendees, 120+ exhibitors, and features 3 days of sessions. According to the organizer, 75% of attendees rate the conference 4 or 5 stars, and the audience includes large numbers of decision-makers such as utility managers and board members. NRWA also notes that 73% of attendees cite networking opportunities as a leading reason they attend.
Registration
Attendee registration is open and can be completed online through NRWA's registration portal, or by downloading and submitting a paper registration form. The early bird deadline is July 31, after which prices increase.
Registration tiers:
- Member Registration – $605: includes educational sessions, exhibit hall access, and a ticket to the Wednesday Luncheon.
- Non-Member Registration – $665: same inclusions; a $49 NRWA Supporting Membership can be added.
- Single Day Registration – $225 per person: offered on-site only.
Optional add-ons include the Facility Tour ($35), Women in Rural Water Luncheon ($35 before July 31, $45 after), Spouse Registration ($80), and the Spouse Session Paint and Sip ($50), plus the Friends of Rural Water Gala.
History
The WaterPro Conference is the official conference of the National Rural Water Association (NRWA) and has established itself as the sector's flagship annual event, known as the "Industry Event of the Year." It has grown to draw more than 2,000 attendees and over 120 exhibitors, with a program of 70+ educational sessions and a slate of recurring signature events. The Women in Rural Water Luncheon reaches its 7th annual edition in 2026, reflecting the conference's steady expansion of programming over the years.
Exhibitors
Exhibitor Information
Detailed exhibitor list is being compiled. Check back soon or visit the official show website for the most current information.
Last updated: July 24, 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
When and where is the WaterPro Conference 2026?
The WaterPro Conference 2026 takes place September 14-16, 2026, at the Phoenix Convention Center, 100 N 3rd St, Phoenix, AZ 85004. It uses a two-day exhibit, three-day session format.
Who should attend the WaterPro Conference?
The conference is designed for water and wastewater professionals serving small and rural utilities, including utility managers, operators, board members, and state association staff. Many attendees are decision-makers seeking education, networking, and vendor solutions.
How much does registration cost and how do I register?
Member registration is $605 and non-member registration is $665, both including educational sessions, exhibit hall access, and the Wednesday Luncheon. A single-day pass is available on-site for $225. You can register online through NRWA's portal or by submitting a paper form, with an early bird deadline of July 31.
What hotels are available near the venue?
Official room blocks include the Sheraton Phoenix Downtown (about one block away) at $249/night, plus the Hyatt Regency Phoenix and Renaissance Downtown Phoenix, both currently sold out. NRWA advises booking only through the official channels on its website, as availability is limited.
What makes the WaterPro Conference worth attending?
Known as the "Industry Event of the Year," WaterPro offers 70+ educational sessions, an exhibit hall with 120+ vendors, and signature events like the WaterPro Feud and Ultimate Meter Challenge. NRWA reports 2,000+ attendees and that 75% rate the conference 4 or 5 stars.
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