More than 450 workers who keep sewers and stormwater systems running for Tigard, Tualatin and surrounding communities will be recognized during Oregon's first Water Professionals Appreciation Week, Saturday, Oct. 3, through Sunday, Oct. 11.

The Clean Water Services Board of Directors, which doubles as the Washington County Board of Commissioners, proclaimed the nine-day observance to honor the employees who maintain water infrastructure around the clock for more than 600,000 residents and businesses across the Tualatin River Watershed.

The week exists because of House Bill 4005 (HB 4005), which Gov. Kotek signed March 5. The law took effect June 5 and designates the first Saturday of October through the following Sunday each year as Water Professionals Appreciation Week.

The League of Oregon Cities said the law encourages public water and wastewater agencies to hold tours, open houses and other events to educate Oregonians about the field and recruit new workers.

CWS Senior Wastewater Plant Operator Skyler Edmison testified before Oregon lawmakers during Water Day at the Capitol on Feb. 2 in support of the bill. Edmison told legislators that Oregon's water professionals "are responsible for maintaining highly complex infrastructure systems and delivering critical services 24 hours a day, seven days a week, including on holidays."

The workforce challenge is growing.

Many experienced water workers are nearing retirement, according to Clean Water Services. General Manager Rahim Harji, who took the helm May 28 after more than two decades in public-sector engineering and management, said he hopes "anyone who is exploring their future career options and wants to be at the frontlines in supporting their community will consider becoming a water professional."

CWS staff joined peers from across Oregon in Salem to advocate for HB 4005 during the 2026 legislative session. The agency says the Tualatin River's slow, sensitive flow presents unique operational challenges that demand specialized expertise as the climate shifts and communities grow.

Residents interested in water-sector careers can find openings and hiring information at cleanwaterservices.org/careers. The CWS Board of Directors meets on the second Tuesday at 9 a.m. and the fourth Tuesday at 5:30 p.m. in Room 120D, Charles D. Cameron Public Services Building, 155 N. First Ave., Hillsboro.