PEP kicked off 2026 with a strong turnout at the January Membership Breakfast on January 15, bringing members together for timely conversation, industry updates, and an important discussion on water safety in our region. Thank you to HPM, our breakfast sponsor, for supporting this first event of the year.
During opening remarks, PEP leadership shared encouraging news about the organization’s momentum. Membership has now returned to pre-COVID levels, a milestone that reflects the continued engagement of our members and the impact of committee involvement. Members were encouraged to get involved with PEP committees as a way to deepen connections and help guide the organization’s work in 2026 and beyond.
The featured speaker was Bud McCrory, Director of MAWSS (Mobile Area Water & Sewer System), who delivered an informative presentation titled Protecting Our Water Supply: JB Converse Reservoir, MAWSS, and the Invasive Species Threat. As the largest water utility in Alabama, MAWSS plays a critical role in protecting and enhancing the health, safety, and economic well-being of our community, serving Mobile and Baldwin counties, including Prichard and Semmes.
McCrory focused on Big Creek Lake (JB Converse Reservoir), the sole water supply for MAWSS ratepayers. The 3,600-acre reservoir was placed in service by MAWSS in 1952 to provide a major source of drinking water for Mobile and surrounding communities. The reservoir produces approximately 60 million gallons of water per day and supports nearly 9,000 acres of shoreline, making its protection essential to the region. He outlined the serious threat posed by invasive species, including giant salvinia discovered in 2021 and multiple invasive species identified in 2022—most notably zebra mussels, which damage infrastructure, restrict water flow, and consume oxygen. Once introduced, these species are nearly impossible to remove and can cost billions of dollars to mitigate.
To prevent further spread, MAWSS made the difficult decision to close Big Creek Lake to outside boats, begin EPA-approved chemical treatments during summer months, and implement long-term watershed management strategies. These efforts include purchasing surrounding land at fair market value to protect against runoff and preserve water quality—an approach MAWSS has taken for more than 25 years.
McCrory also shared updates on future recreation plans designed to balance water protection with public access. MAWSS is exploring options to reopen the lake safely, including expanded fishing areas, increased open days, and managed recreation modeled after the successful Lake Purdy system. A potential reopening is targeted for March 2026, with Fox Landing identified as a key access point.
The presentation concluded with updates on legal and enforcement efforts to protect the reservoir, including pending state litigation to clarify access authority and the use of Alabama’s critical infrastructure laws to address unauthorized entry. McCrory encouraged attendees to learn more and support these efforts by visiting protectmobilewater.com, where MAWSS shares detailed information, its protection plan, and a public petition to safeguard the region’s drinking water.
Thank you to everyone who joined us for this engaging and informative breakfast. We look forward to seeing you at our upcoming PEP events and continuing the conversation around environmental stewardship and community protection.