Abby Thompson Fopiano officially assumed the role of Chair of the New Hampshire Water Works Association (NHWWA) Board in January, marked by the ceremonial passing of the gavel from former Chair Jamie Stevens at the joint meeting of NHWWA and the New England Water Works Association (NEWWA) on January 15.
Abby has served on the NHWWA Board of Directors for more than five years, demonstrating consistent leadership and dedication to the association’s mission. Her devotion is evident through her ongoing commitment to education and professional development within the industry. She teaches the Basic Water Works Math Course twice each year, instructs Grade 2 operator certification courses twice annually, presents regularly at technical meetings, and has chaired various committees over time. Her sustained involvement reflects both her passion for the profession and her commitment to supporting New Hampshire’s water works community.
Abby is a Professional Geologist, a licensed New Hampshire water operator, and the owner of Edgewater Strategies, a hydrological consulting firm specializing in groundwater withdrawal management and permitting, as well as public water system operations and upgrades. Since founding the firm in April 2021, Abby’s Team has focused on helping water suppliers and system owners navigate complex regulatory and technical challenges through clear, practical, and results-driven processes.
Growing up on Lake Winnipesaukee, Abby developed an early connection to water and the natural environment. While pursuing her undergraduate degree in Montana, she became fascinated by the geologic and hydraulic dynamics of groundwater systems. She continued her studies at the University of New Hampshire, where her graduate research deepened her interest in groundwater flow within New Hampshire’s bedrock aquifers—particularly the paradox of water abundance in a region where reliable water supplies can still be challenging to locate and develop.
Abby’s professional background includes service with the Drinking Water Bureau at the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services, as well as private sector experience with Epping Well and Pump Company and Geosphere Environmental Management. Her expertise spans public water supply operations and compliance, groundwater exploration and permitting, well construction, water treatment and system design, water conservation, and long-term water supply protection.
Abby’s family resides in New Hampshire’s Lakes Region enjoying summers on the lake and winters at Gunstock Mountain Resort.
Photo: Abby Thompson Fopiano (center) receives the gavel from former Chair Jamie Stevens (right). NHWWA President and CEO Sam Currier is on the left.