The 2024 Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) introduces provisions for corrosion prevention, ensuring the durability and sustainability of American water infrastructures.
The upcoming 2024 Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) marks a significant step forward in water infrastructure policy by introducing critical measures for corrosion prevention. Unveiled by House and Senate negotiators, the legislation authorises the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Civil Works Program and establishes key policies to guide water resources projects nationwide.
A standout provision is Section 1135 - Corrosion Prevention, crafted in collaboration with the Association for Materials Protection and Performance (AMPP) and its industry partners. In fact, this section mandates that all WRDA-authorised projects integrate corrosion prevention measures to protect infrastructure from degradation, reduce maintenance costs, and ensure the longevity of public investments.
“Corrosion prevention is fundamental to the sustainability, safety, and longevity of our nation’s water resources infrastructure. Including this language in WRDA 2024 is a pivotal moment for the industry and a testament to the critical role of corrosion control in protecting public investments,” has stated Kern Williams, AMPP Manager of Government Relations.
To meet rigorous standards, the legislation specifies that corrosion prevention activities must:
- Be carried out through programs accredited by organisations setting industry benchmarks for corrosion control.
- Use industrial coatings applicator programs registered under the National Apprenticeship Act or recognised as workforce development initiatives.
This mandate will impact numerous water resource projects authorised biennially, representing billions of dollars in federal investments. The legislation also promotes accountability by requiring the Secretary of the Army to deliver a status report to Congress within 90 days of enactment. This report will detail the findings of a long-awaited study on corrosion prevention practices across water infrastructure projects, ensuring transparency and measurable progress.
ABOUT AMPP
The Association for Materials Protection and Performance (AMPP) is a global community of professionals focused on the protection of assets and the performance of industrial and natural materials. AMPP was established in 2021 following a merger between NACE International and SSPC: The Society for Protective Coatings. The new association unites 145 years of corrosion control and protective coatings expertise and service to industry and members worldwide. Today, AMPP is the world’s largest corrosion control and protective coatings organization, serving more than 35,000 members in over 140 countries. AMPP is headquartered in the United States with offices in Houston and Pittsburgh, and additional offices in Brazil, Canada, China, Dubai (training center), Malaysia, Saudi Arabia, and the United Kingdom.