SDARWS Wins Communications Award at WaterPro

The South Dakota Association of Rural Water Systems (SDARWS) has been recognized nationally for its outstanding communications efforts. On September 16th, at the WaterPro Conference in New Orleans, Louisiana, the National Rural Water Association (NRWA) presented SDARWS with the prestigious “Outstanding Achievement in Communications, Publications, and Public Relations” award.

This honor highlights SDARWS’s commitment to elevating awareness of rural water and educating the public on the vital role water systems play in communities across South Dakota. 2025 marks the fifth time since 2016 that SDARWS has taken home this particular honor.

“This award is a reflection of the creativity, dedication, and innovation our team brings to telling the story of rural water,” said SDARWS Executive Director Jeremiah Corbin. “We’re proud to be recognized nationally for our efforts to engage members, inspire future leaders, and advocate for the essential services that keep our communities thriving.”

A key highlight of SDARWS’s communications in the past year was the creation of the South Dakota Rural Water Hall of Fame, launched to honor industry trailblazers whose leadership and service laid the foundation for today’s water systems. The Hall of Fame includes a permanent installation at the SDARWS office and an online archive, preserving the history, innovations, and personal stories of inductees while inspiring future generations of water professionals.

Additionally, SDARWS’s comprehensive communications strategy encompasses multiple platforms and diverse audiences. Efforts include:

• Print and digital publications – including a bi-monthly industry magazine, consumer-facing newsletters reaching tens of thousands of households, and a digital news bulletin.
• Events and education – children’s water festivals, community events, and targeted educational materials.
• Multimedia outreach – video, photography, design, and in-depth storytelling produced in-house by SDARWS’s communications specialist.
• Member resources – supporting utilities with information, advocacy, and connections to NRWA Affinity Programs.

Through these initiatives, SDARWS ensures that rural water not only meets today’s needs but also continues to build a legacy of leadership and service for the future.

For more information about SDARWS and its programs, visit www.sdarws.com.