Drinking Water Week to celebrate water professionals, Safe Drinking Water Act 50th anniversary

Drinking Water Week, the annual observance led by the American Water Works Association (AWWA), will take place this year May 5-11. The celebration highlights the importance of safe drinking water and recognizes the tireless efforts of water professionals who keep it flowing around the clock.

For water systems in the United States, this year’s celebration also coincides with an historic milestone – the 50th anniversary of the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA), a landmark law designed to safeguard the public by setting high drinking water quality standards. Drinking Water Week provides an ideal platform for water utilities to honor the legacy of the SDWA while educating the public, connecting meaningfully with communities, and raising awareness of their essential work.

AWWA offers members free downloadable resources in English – with select materials in Spanish – to support Drinking Water Week outreach. This year’s toolkit includes:

• 2024 logos
• Suggested social media posts
• Mayoral and gubernatorial proclamations
• Press release templates
• A local influencer engagement guide
• Additional assets coming soon – including social media graphics, SDWA celebration ideas, children’s activities and more

These materials can be used to inform consumers, public officials and media about the value of safe drinking water and the dedicated professionals who ensure and protect this vital resource, from collection to treatment to delivery.

AWWA will also spotlight the faces of the water sector on its social media platforms (Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and Instagram) to recognize and honor the workforce dedicated to safe and reliable drinking water.

For other celebration ideas, such as in-person community gatherings, art contests, or utilizing the opportunity to publicize the release of a consumer confidence report, visit the Drinking Water Week page.

Questions can be directed to Megan McDowell in AWWA’s Communications Department.