Governance & Code of Ethics
Bylaws are the most important document of the organization, defining the type of organization members have, its characteristics and establishing its operational framework. Without Bylaws, an organization would have no structure and anarchy would rule. Bylaws state what rights members have within the organization, how much power the leaders have to make decisions and what limits of power are within its board and officers.
NOWRA’s original Bylaws were created November 1991. Since that time, there have been several updates made over the years to reflect the changes needed for its effectiveness: August 2000, February 2003, June 2004, December 2006, September 2022, and February 2023. The most current and updated version of the NOWRA Bylaws is provided.
Code of Ethics
Preamble
Members of the National Onsite Wastewater Recycling Association (Association) are committed to the highest standards of integrity and professionalism in the onsite wastewater recycling Industry (Industry). They are dedicated to providing quality service, products, education, and research. The members of NOWRA shall uphold this Code of Ethics.
General Obligations
Members shall endeavor to know and understand the local, state/provincial, and national statutes, codes, laws, and regulations applicable to the Industry as well as to their own activities. They shall compete honestly and lawfully, building their businesses through their own skills and merits in the Industry. Members shall avoid any act that might promote their individual interests at the expense of the integrity of the Industry, and avoid conduct that might discredit the Industry or deceive others.
Obligations to Others
Members shall represent themselves and the benefits of the Association faithfully and honestly with integrity and professionalism. They shall convey their credentials, training, experience, and abilities with integrity and pride. Members shall always seek to enhance the reputation of the Industry with others by the way they communicate and interact. Members shall avoid conflicts of interest through disclosure to appropriate parties.
Obligations to Professionalism
Members shall strive to maintain and advance their skills and knowledge of the Industry. They will continually seek to improve their own professional expertise by staying informed of scientific and technological developments in the Industry. They shall always seek to advance the integrity of the Industry. Members shall admit and take responsibility for their own errors when proven wrong, and not seek to alter or distort facts in an effort to justify decisions.
Approved and Adopted by the NOWRA Board of Directors
November 21, 2002