The Thunder of Waters Is Calling You

Annie Edson Taylor celebrated her 63rd birthday in a truly extraordinary way-by going over Niagara Falls in a barrel.(Interestingly, October 24 falls under the zodiac sign Scorpio, a water sign.)That day, Annie, a schoolteacher, made history as the first person to survive a barrel ride over the Falls.Niagara Falls has long been associated with thrill seekers like Annie, but the Falls also represent something deeper: the incredible power of water-its unstoppable force and its ability to transform everything in its path.That symbolism resonates strongly with us as water professionals.I'm pleased to announce that the Ontario Water Works Association-a Section of AWWA (OWWA)-has decided Niagara Falls is the perfect setting for its groundbreaking conference: NextWave 2026.This event, taking place May 4-7, will harness the energy and symbolism of the Falls-where ideas flow freely, innovation cascades, and the future of water takes shape.While hosted by OWWA, NextWave 2026 is also a collaborative effort sponsored by AWWA and supported by the Atlantic Canada, Western Canada, and British Columbia Sections of AWWA.This broad partnership promises a dynamic technical program and trade show, creating a unique opportunity to network, exchange ideas, and stay informed on the latest technical, regulatory, and equipment developments shaping water's future.NextWave 2026 is much more than just another conference, or just a conference in Canada.It's an opportunity for all of AWWA to come together as one-something that hasn't been easy lately.I will be there, as will Heather Collins, AWWA's president.We'll be joined by the CEOs