LEWISTON – Maine’s aging drinking water system will get some scrutiny Thursday from state, federal and local officials.

Representatives from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the Androscoggin Valley Council of Governments and HRH New England are hosting a conference to discuss Maine’s water and sewer systems.

The conference runs from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Thursday at the Ramada Inn and Conference Center, 490 Pleasant St. Registration costs $20 and includes lunch.

“It’s not just a matter of systems that are getting older, but of new technologies that could allow greater efficiency,” AVCOG Executive Director Bob Thompson said.

The conference will include discussions by congressional staffers, local water and sewer officials, and other experts discussing security and new technology.

David Littell, commissioner of the Maine Department of Environmental Protection, will give the keynote address. Jim Maras, division director for the USDA’s Rural Development Water Program, is also scheduled to talk.

“We hope this will put a national perspective on what we are currently doing, and what needs to be done,” Thompson said. “It’s particularly important when it comes to dealing with water and sewer systems. These are things that are important for everyone.”

For more information about the program, contact AVCOG at 783-9186.