Definition
The International Right of Way Association (IR/WA) is a professional membership organization dedicated to providing education, certification, and professional development for individuals involved in the acquisition, management, and disposition of public and private right-of-way. The IR/WA educates its members in various disciplines, including law, engineering, and appraisal, essential for right-of-way work. The association awards the prominent SR/WA (Senior Right of Way Professional) designation to qualified individuals who meet specified education and experience criteria.
Examples
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Education and Courses:
- The IR/WA offers specialized courses covering law, engineering, and appraisal among other right-of-way disciplines. For instance, courses on “Easements and Land Descriptions” and “Principles of Real Estate Appraisal” are popular among members.
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Professional Development:
- A member pursuing the SR/WA designation might complete coursework in legal aspects of right-of-way, participate in complex appraisal tasks, and collaborate with engineering professionals to resolve right-of-way issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the IR/WA?
The International Right of Way Association is a nonprofit organization that provides educational resources and professional development opportunities for individuals involved in right-of-way work, including areas of law, engineering, and appraisal.
What is the SR/WA designation?
The SR/WA (Senior Right of Way Professional) designation is the highest achievement a right-of-way professional can attain, awarded by the IR/WA to those who meet advanced educational and professional experience requirements in the field.
Are there corporate memberships available in the IR/WA?
No, the IR/WA offers individual memberships only and does not provide corporate memberships.
What are the benefits of joining the IR/WA?
Benefits include access to specialized education and training, professional development opportunities, networking with industry professionals, access to a bi-monthly magazine, and eligibility to earn designations like the SR/WA.
How can I join the IR/WA?
Individuals can join the IR/WA by visiting the association’s website at irwaonline.org and following the membership enrollment process.
Related Terms
Right-of-Way
An easement or legal right to pass through or use another person’s land for a specific purpose, often concerning utilities or transportation.
Easement
A contractual right to use another person’s land for a specific and limited purpose. Common easements include the right to use passages, install utilities, or maintain public services.
Appraisal
The professional assessment or valuation of property, often needed in the context of acquiring, managing, or disposing of right-of-way.
Real Estate Law
The branch of law that deals with the ownership, use, and transfer of real estate, including rights and obligations associated with real property.
Online Resources
- IR/WA Official Website: Resource for memberships, courses, and professional information.
- IR/WA Course Finder: Portal for locating and enrolling in IR/WA educational courses.
- IR/WA Magazine: Access to the association’s bi-monthly magazine offering industry insights and articles.
References
- International Right of Way Association - About Us. IR/WA. Retrieved from irwaonline.org
- IR/WA Professional Development. IR/WA. Retrieved from irwaonline.org
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “Real Property Law for Paralegals” by Abbott Thomas
- “The Appraisal of Real Estate” by the Appraisal Institute
- “Eminent Domain: A Handbook of Condemnation Law” by William J. Blake
- “Real Estate Principles: A Value Approach” by David C. Ling and Wayne R. Archer
