Beginning today, the Atlanta Department of Watershed Management (DWM) will recognize National Drinking Water Week in an effort to promote water conservation and to encourage residents to drink tap water. This year’s theme, “Your Water – To Know It Is To Love It” asks everyone to consider the vital role water plays in our daily lives. The American Water Works Association (AWWA) has celebrated National Drinking Water Week for more than 35 years.
“During National Drinking Water Week, I encourage Atlantans to think about the significant impact clean water has on our quality of life,” said Commissioner Jo Ann Macrina. “Watershed Management is dedicated to ensuring the delivery of safe, clean drinking water through initiatives like the Water Supply Program which will provide up to 90 days of water reserve in the former Bellwood Quarry. We are committed to Mayor Reed’s goals to ensure sustainable resources for Atlanta’s future generations, and conserving our finite water supply is essential.”
Watershed Management is partnering with the Metro North Georgia Water Planning District and other local water utilities to host the 2016 Children’s Water Festivals on Tuesday, May 3 at the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area, Paces Mill and Friday, May 6 at the Shamrock Community Use Building. The festivals show students the importance of conservation and protecting Georgia’s fresh water sources.
The Department will also host a drinking water taste test during the Senior Wellness and Resource Fair Thursday, May 5 at Quality Living Services senior citizens center, 4001 Danforth Road SW, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Atlanta’s drinking water system dates back to 1875. The Hemphill, Chattahoochee and Atlanta-Fulton County water treatment plants supply water to approximately 1.2 million people daily in Atlanta, Sandy Springs and south Fulton County. DWM also serves wholesale customers in Clayton and DeKalb counties and the cities of College Park, Hapeville and East Point.
For more information about National Drinking Water Week, visit the AWWA website. Follow Watershed Management on Facebook and Twitter @ATLWatershed for more details throughout the week.
