The  Oregon Drilling Association was organized in November 1949 to build public goodwill and understanding of the drilling industry. Those early objectives have expanded over the years to include pump contractors, water treatment specialists, technical organizations, associate members, student members and manufacturers & suppliers. The association continues to assist in developing meaningful state licensing requirements, legislation, education and related subjects effecting the ground water industry. 

The name was changed to the Oregon Water Well Association in 1986; and in 1992, to the Oregon Ground Water Association to best reflect our ever-expanding mission.