FRENCH LICK — Hundreds of water and wastewater professionals from across the Hoosier state will descend upon the French Lick Resort from March 17–19, 2026, for the Alliance of Indiana Rural Water’s annual Spring Conference.
Recognized as Indiana’s premier training event, the conference is dedicated to supporting the unique needs of small and rural drinking water systems. These utilities form the backbone of Indiana’s countryside, ensuring that even the most remote communities have access to safe, reliable, and high-quality water.
The Quest for the Best
While the three-day event is packed with technical training and regulatory updates, the most anticipated highlight is the “Best Tasting Water in Indiana” competition.
In this unique “blind” challenge, rural and small community water utilities submit samples to a panel of experts. Each entry is rigorously evaluated based on three primary criteria:
- Taste
- Odor
- Clarity
The stakes are high for local operators; the winner of this regional heat will advance toward the statewide title. From there, the top Indiana utility will earn the prestigious opportunity to represent the state at the Great American Water Taste Test in Washington, D.C., organized by the National Rural Water Association.
Supporting Local Infrastructure
Beyond the competition, the Spring Conference serves as a critical resource for the professionals who operate and maintain the state’s essential water infrastructure. Attendees will participate in specialized training sessions designed to help them navigate evolving environmental standards and the technical challenges of modern wastewater management.
As rural communities continue to face unique infrastructural demands, the Alliance of Indiana Rural Water remains a vital advocate, providing the tools and education necessary to keep Indiana’s taps running clear.
To register, click here.
Competition details can be found here.
