Learn about the Water Laboratory Alliance
Learn about the Water Laboratory Alliance
Water Laboratory Alliance (WLA) is a nationwide network of laboratories that serves the water sector. This network helps laboratories and utilities respond to water contamination events involving chemical, biological and radiochemical contaminants. The WLA is part of the Environmental Response Laboratory Network (ERLN).
ERLN laboratories analyze:
- Air
- Soil
- Surfaces
- Water
Apply to become a member
Laboratories and utilities are encouraged to join WLA.
Watch the video to learn about the benefits of joining the laboratory network and how to become a WLA member.
- If you are a laboratory, visit the ERLN membership website to join the laboratory network.
- If you are a utility or other water sector partner, you can join WLA by signing up in our mailing list. You can read our A Utility Perspective factsheet to learn about WLA’s benefit to the water sector.
"Water Laboratory Alliance (WLA): Becoming a Member" provides information on the benefits of becoming a member (runtime 29:39)
Benefits of membership
WLA members are part of a nationwide network of laboratories. Members have priority access to emergency response exercises and other water security-related learning opportunities. Members will gain more:
- Analytical support to respond to emergencies
- Peer laboratories to share analytical skills and address challenges
- Knowledge of neighboring laboratory capability and available personnel
The video below provides information on the benefits of joining.
"Water Laboratory Alliance-Overview for Members" provides members with an overview of the WLA (runtime 32:49 min)
In addition to direct benefits for WLA members, this network can be an asset to other water sector stakeholders. State primacy agencies cannot join WLA directly, but laboratories in their state can become members.
- Learn how WLA can be a powerful resource for state primacy agencies.
- Learn about WLA from a water utility’s perspective.
Become a Liaison
WLA Liaisons play a central role in the WLA by coordinating communication within each individual state and disseminating information to enhance preparedness at the local level.
We are currently in the process of expanding our WLA Liaison community. If you are interested in becoming a WLA Liaison, or would like to nominate a colleague, please get in touch with us today by emailing WLA@epa.gov or calling the WLA Helpline at (703)-461-2400.