By Denise M. Roberts
One of the more pleasant aspects of the California Groundwater Association’s annual convention is the close-knit relationships and overall camaraderie among both attendees and vendors. 
Although this is a contractor-heavy event, it’s apparent that the variety of products and services available to anyone involved in groundwater applications can be found here, from pipes and shaft collars to drilling rigs.
A total of 181 vendors/exhibitors occupied 79 booths, representing 81 companies. Over 400 people attended the two-day convention held in Reno, NV. Exhibitors and visitors were invited to take part in the annual golf tournament and enjoy some family fun at the Edge Nightclub. Attendees were met with a full slate of educational offerings, including a two-hour presentation from McEllhiney Lecturer Peter Cartwright, PE, of Cartwright Consulting. He will give another presentation at the national convention in December.
As with every conference, the organization honored its members and took care of association business while everyone was together. Awards included: Contractor of the Year, Bruce Hunter, Sam Jorgensen Pump Co.; Manufacturer/Supplier of the Year, Craig Newman, Newman Well Surveys and Woman of the Year, Anita Tullis, Quick Tanks, Inc. Association officers remained the same and included President Ron Hedman, Hedman Drilling; Vice President Mike Meyer, Gregg Drilling; Treasurer Dave Fulton, Diamond Well Drilling; Secretary Mike Guardino, Water Well Repair, Inc. and immediate Past President Mike Maggiora, Maggiora Bros. Drilling.
CGA is excited to return to the Grand Sierra Resort in Reno for the 69th Annual Convention and Trade Show, October 19-21, 2017. Call the CGA office at (707) 578-4408 for more information. We look forward to seeing you next year!