KANSAS CITY, MO - The American Public Works Association (APWA) and the Pacific Northwest Snowfighters Association (PNS) will jointly present the APWA North American Snow and Pacific Northwest Snowfighters Conference in April 2011 in Spokane, Wash.

APWA is the public works community's resource for information and expertise on winter operations, and PNS is renowned for its technical expertise in snow and ice, according to a release from the APWA.

"APWA is eager to work with the Pacific Northwest Snowfighters Association to present this joint conference," said APWA Executive Director Peter B. King. "When winter weather strikes, the local, state, and provincial public works agencies and snowfighters are at the forefront. As responders in these situations, public works and the snowfighters depend on reliable equipment, information technology, knowledge and expertise, and maintenance systems that are critical to ensuring the public's safety during winter weather."

The "Show for Snow" will feature four days of educational programs and technical tours with opportunities to see the latest winter operations equipment and products available, as well as networking and idea exchange with manufacturers, distributors, consultants, and other public works professionals. Exhibits are planned in a combined APWA/PNS exhibit floor with more than 120 companies participating. Exhibits will include innovative new equipment and technology, and groundbreaking new products and services focused on snow and ice removal and winter operations.    

APWA will also launch its Winter Maintenance Supervisor Certificate Program at the conference, in a one-day workshop comprised of multiple sessions. This certificate is aimed at winter maintenance supervisors, operators who aspire to be supervisors, and operators wanting greater understanding of winter maintenance issues. The workshop will consist of sessions on policy and planning, snow and ice control materials, snow control, ice control, weather basics, and equipment. It will also include a focus on sustainability and lessening the impact of winter  maintenance practices to protect the natural environment.