It’s Officially Drinking Water Week in North Dakota

Whether it’s flowing from the kitchen tap or powering firefighting efforts, safe drinking water is something many take for granted—until it’s not there. This week, North Dakota is joining a nationwide effort to honor the people and systems that keep clean water flowing. Governor Kelly Armstrong has officially declared May 4–10 as Drinking Water Week in North Dakota, spotlighting the work of water professionals and the importance of preserving and protecting one of our most vital resources.

— OFFICIAL NEWS RELEASE, GOVERNOR ARMSTRONG —

BISMARCK, N.D. – Gov. Armstrong recently declared May 4–10 as Drinking Water Week in North Dakota. The North Dakota Department of Environmental Quality joins communities across the nation in honoring the drinking water systems.

The water community celebrates Drinking Water Week by highlighting the vital role drinking water plays in our daily lives. This annual observance emphasizes the value of our water resources, the importance of maintaining a safe and reliable water supply for today and the future, and the need for water conservation. To celebrate the week, water utilities, water organizations, government entities, and others help children and consumers of all ages understand how water is protected, cleaned, and delivered throughout their communities. This event honors the dedicated work of water system operators, infrastructure maintenance crews, and water professionals who work around the clock to ensure safe tap water is available whenever needed. Tap water supports public health by providing clean water for hygiene and hydration, fire protection, economic stability, and the overall quality of life we enjoy.

“More than 85 percent of all North Dakotans receive drinking water from 305 community and rural drinking water systems statewide,” said David Bruschwein, director of the Division of Municipal Facilities. “The department works with local communities and water systems to ensure drinking water meets all health-based standards.”

Organizations involved in promoting Drinking Water Week include the North Dakota Department of Environmental Quality, the North Dakota Rural Water Systems Association, the North Dakota Section of the American Water Works Association, the North Dakota Water and Pollution Control Conference, the North Dakota Chapter of the American Public Works Association, and the North Dakota Water Environment Association.

For more information on Drinking Water Week, contact David Bruschwein, Division of Municipal Facilities, at 701-328-5211, or visit https://drinktap.org.