AWWA, partners present Source Water Protection Week 2024

The American Water Works Association (AWWA) encourages water utilities, consumers and other partners to join in the fourth annual Source Water Protection Week, Sept. 29-Oct. 5. The campaign highlights the critical importance of safeguarding source water and ensuring access to clean, safe drinking water for all.

Throughout the week, AWWA, water utilities and many other organizations – such as the Source Water Collaborative – will raise awareness about the importance of collaboration in protecting drinking water sources. AWWA Source Water Protection Week materials are available to download, including social media graphics, suggested social media posts, case studies, educational videos and more.

“AWWA’s 2024 State of the Water Industry Report makes clear that no issue is more critical to water professionals than the protection of our source waters,” said AWWA CEO David LaFrance. “Source Water Protection Week is an ideal time to make sure everyone – decision-makers, influencers, consumers – understand that we all play a role in protecting our drinking water sources.”

The campaign supports programs that protect drinking water sources such as rivers, lakes, reservoirs and groundwater from pollution, which is the most effective and least expensive way to keep drinking water safe and healthy. It also seeks to foster collaboration and partnerships with various stakeholders, including agriculture, forest management, local businesses and land developers.

This year’s campaign will continue AWWA’s celebration of the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) 50th anniversary, with toolkit materials highlighting SDWA’s regulations on drinking water standards, source water assessments, wellhead protection, and other key provisions directly contributing to safeguarding the quality and availability of drinking water sources.

More information about Source Water Protection Week is available here and campaign materials are available to download here.

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Established in 1881, the American Water Works Association is the largest nonprofit, scientific and educational association dedicated to managing and treating water, the world’s most vital resource. With approximately 50,000 members, AWWA provides solutions to improve public health, protect the environment, strengthen the economy and enhance our quality of life.