Our municipal drinking water utilities work tirelessly to ensure our water is safe to drink. And thanks to all their hard work, we don’t really think much about where our water comes from. We simply turn on the faucet and consume what comes out. The reality, however, is that the quality of water at its origin—whether from rivers, lakes, groundwater, or reservoirs—directly affects how safe it is to drink (and how difficult it is to treat).
When pollutants such as chemicals, industrial waste, agricultural runoff, and pathogens get into our drinking water sources, it poses a host of problems down the line. First and foremost, it can potentially make people sick. But contaminated water can also harm wildlife, aquatic habitats, and other delicate ecosystems that depend on that source for survival. Water pollution can also contribute to broader environmental problems like soil degradation and climate impacts, which have far-reaching consequences.
Poor source water quality can have economic impacts, too. After all, clean water is essential for agriculture, industry, and energy production. When source water is compromised, it can increase treatment costs and affect those industries that rely on water.
Safeguarding our drinking water sources is such a vital endeavor that a whole week is set aside to promote awareness and education about protecting our rivers, lakes, streams, and aquifers: Source Water Protection Week. This national initiative was established by the American Water Works Association in 2021 and, this year, it takes place September 29–October 5, 2024.
AWWA has compiled an extensive collection of materials to help both organizations and consumers spread the campaign’s important message. From social media posts and videos to case studies and proclamation templates, AWWA has made it easy to join this important cause.
Wondering how you can celebrate Source Water Protection Week? AWWA has suggestions for that, too! For utilities, you can organize a poster, photo, or essay contest for kids. You can also host a live or virtual watershed tour. Additionally, you can share your source water assessment or protection plan with your customers, or prepare an official proclamation declaring Source Water Protection Week in your community.
For consumers, AWWA suggests participating in volunteer activities such as litter cleanups or rain barrel workshops, learning about your own source of drinking water, having your septic system serviced, or simply conserving water to ease the burden on your local water source (and your wallet).
By raising awareness and promoting responsible practices, Source Water Protection Week highlights the importance of safeguarding drinking water quality – because protecting water at its source is the best way to ensure clean, safe water at our taps now and for future generations.
