Chapter NR 114, Wis. Adm. Code [exit DNR], code requires that certified operators earn continuing education credits (CECs) to maintain an active certification. This continuing education requirement is designed to help you keep current on new requirements and technical innovations. The initial training prior to the exam cannot be counted toward continuing education credits. In addition, health and safety related courses cannot be counted toward continuing education credits.
Your certification must be renewed every 3 years by submitting proof of 6 hours of continuing education credits and paying a renewal fee of $45 to the DNR.
The continuing education requirements may be obtained in a number of different ways including attendance at professional association meetings and training (e.g. CLEAR, WRWA WWA), water supply related courses, EPA and DNR training courses, in-house and self-study courses, and courses offered by technical schools (e.g.Moraine Park Technical College, universities, etc. The DNR maintains a training calendar geared specifically for small systems. While most of the courses are geared towards municipal systems, many are applicable to smaller systems, too.
Credit for courses is determined by the following criteria:
Most trainers provide the approved "Continuing Education Credit Slips" following the completion of training. Technical schools also provide completion certificates or credit slips. Credits must be earned in the three year period prior to renewal. (Example: July 1, 2005 is the expiration date of your certificate. Credits must be earned between July 1, 2002 and July 1, 2005 to be valid for your renewal in July of 2005.) The initial training prior to the exam and health & safety related courses cannot be counted toward continuing education credits. While extra credits do not carry over to the next renewal period, they do represent your strong dedication to your profession and the customers that you serve and protect.
Phillip Spranger, Bureau of Drinking Water & Groundwater, (608)266-5240 with questions regarding Operator Certification for Small Water Systems
Mary Wagner, Bureau of Integrated Science Services, Environmental Science Services Section, (608) 266-0498 with questions concerning continuing education credits, Small Water System Operator Certification examinations