After seeing our community of water professionals separated for more than a year, WEF is committed to taking every step possible to allow us to assemble safely and enjoyably, in person, October 16-20 in Chicago.

We know there is a large amount of uncertainty with the continually changing status of coronavirus infections. WEF understands that this uncertainty generates many questions related to holding a large event like WEFTEC.

Fortunately, we know that we can assemble face-to-face by agreeing to take reasonable precautions to protect and preserve each other’s health and well-being. Recently, numerous large events have been safely conducted, including the AWWA/WEF Utility Management Conference this week. Prudent health precautions include the following:

• Get vaccinated.
• Wear a mask
• Respect physical distance.
• Wash hands often.

WEFTEC 2021 will operate according to the prevailing laws, regulations, and guidelines issued by the United States (federal), the State of Illinois, Cook County, and the City of Chicago. These include the U.S. Centers for Disease Control recommendations. You can access the CDC’s July 27, 2021, guidance here.

With the constantly changing coronavirus environment, these laws, regulations, and guidelines can change at any time. Decisions on the actual protocols and requirements necessary in October will likely not be made until we are closer to the WEFTEC dates. WEF will continue monitoring official guidance and will regularly update the overall status of WEFTEC and specific WEFTEC health protocols.

Again, WEF will keep the health of everyone involved with WEFTEC (our members, customers, exhibitors, sponsors, partners, contractors, and staff) at the forefront of all our decisions related to conducting a safe and healthy WEFTEC 2021.

Walt Marlowe
WEF Executive Director