Columbus City Utilities  joins communities across North America in celebrating Drinking Water Week, an annual observance led by the American Water Works Association. Taking place May 5-11 this year, Drinking Water Week serves to highlight the importance of safe drinking water and recognize the tireless efforts of local water professionals who ensure its availability.

Columbus City Utilities recognizes that all water professionals – from engineers designing infrastructure to operators monitoring treatment plants around the clock – play a critical role in ensuring safe and reliable drinking water to City of Columbus community.

This year’s celebration also coincides with a historic milestone – the 50th anniversary of the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) in the United States, a landmark law designed to safeguard the public by setting high drinking water quality standards. The SDWA provides a scientific framework to identify potential risks to drinking water and address them in partnership with states and water utilities.

Columbus City Utilities recognizes the act’s significant contributions to improving and protecting water quality and emphasizes the need for continued investment and scientific evaluation to address emerging challenges.

“The people of the United States enjoy some of the world’s best drinking water, and the Safe Drinking Water Act helps make that possible,” said David LaFrance, CEO of the American Water Works Association. “Over the past 50 years, the SDWA has provided a consistent, scientific process for evaluating potential risks, inspired innovative solutions to water quality concerns, and provided consumers with confidence in the safety of our most vital resource. A safe and well-managed water supply is foundational to our health, well-being and overall quality of life.”

About Drinking Water Week

For several decades, AWWA and its members have celebrated Drinking Water Week, a unique opportunity for both water professionals and the communities they serve to join together in recognizing the vital role water plays in daily lives. Free materials for download and additional information about Drinking Water Week are available on the Drinking Water Week webpage.