The Minnesota Onsite Wastewater Association (MOWA) presented lifetime achievement awards to Jim Anderson, Gretchen Sabel and Ron Jaspersen.
Anderson has been conducting research and providing education on septic systems since 1971. Together with Roger Machmeier, he started the Onsite Sewage Treatment Program at the University of Minnesota. Anderson’s soils expertise, combined with Machmeier’s engineering knowledge, created a program that trains installers, designers, inspectors and service providers. In addition, Anderson helped develop and update Minnesota Rules during 30 years as chair of the Minnesota Septic System Advisory Committee. Anderson retired in 2008 but continues to educate septic service and onsite professionals.
Sabel retired in 2014 after 36 years of state service dedicated to environmental protection. She was on the team that helped pass the Minnesota Groundwater Protection Act in 1989. Her many years of support for local programs resulted in millions of dollars in assistance and development of 250 local programs.
Jaspersen served the onsite community for many decades as a precast tank manufacturer and through his efforts to improve the industry. He worked on issues that included association finances and bylaws, state septic code and policy, and state statutes.