Partnership Programs
Partnership Programs
Better Water Starts Here
The Partnership Programs help water and wastewater utilities optimize performance and build on regulatory compliance through continuous improvement in water treatment, distribution, and wastewater treatment. Through structured self-assessment, performance benchmarking, and peer-to-peer accountability, utilities strengthen operations, reduce risk, and build lasting public trust.
From operators to utility leaders, the programs provide a clear framework for continuous improvement. Participation is voluntary, peer-driven, and completed at your utility’s pace using a proven four-phase approach:
- Commitment
- Data Collection
- Self-Assessment
- Optimized Performance
Partnership for Safe Water
The Partnership for Safe Water (PSW) supports drinking water utilities in optimizing system operations and management. Utilities may participate in either or both programs, depending on their needs.
Distribution Program
Designed for drinking water distribution systems, members of the PSW distribution program focus on improving water quality, operational reliability, and overall system integrity throughout the distribution network.
Learn More About the PSW Distribution Program
Treatment Program
Designed for water treatment plants of all sizes, members of the treatment program focus on optimizing treatment performance with a distinct focus on achieving the highest water quality possible.
Learn More About the PSW Treatment Program
Partnership for Clean Water
The Partnership for Clean Water (PCW) supports wastewater treatment facilities seeking to optimize performance to protect both public health and the environment.
Through structured self-assessment and benchmarking, utilities improve effluent quality, increase operational efficiency, and demonstrate environmental stewardship by reducing overall energy consumption.
Learn More About the PCW
Why Participate?
Utilities that participate in Partnership Programs:
- Improve performance
- Identify and correct performance-limiting factors
- Strengthen regulatory confidence, reduce risk, and improve public trust
- Gain national recognition for excellence
- Connect with a large network of utilities learning and improving together
“The community of excellence is a big reason I have been a PSW volunteer for over 20 years,” he said. “This spirit of collaboration not only enhances individual utilities but also strengthens the overall water sector.”
“Being a part of the Partnership for Safe Water is like joining the Honor Society of the water industry. This group of utilities is top notch in every way. Being a part of this team will have multiplying effects on you and your utility.”
Excellence is a state of mind. It’s about continuous improvement — not perfection. There’s always room for improvement. We can do better; therefore, we should do better.”
The Partnership Programs are an unprecedented alliance of seven prestigious water organizations:
