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Agencies Launch Business Awards Program

Release Date: 06/13/1996
Contact Information: Peter Davison, Special Projects Coordinator

New England Water Works Association, in partnership with the United States Environmental Protection Agency, is launching an awards program to recognize businesses that are actively working to protect drinking water sources throughout New England. The objective is to identify and recognize any size business for distinguished contributions to drinking water source protection. Business practices must be voluntary actions taken for the purpose of protecting public drinking water sources. Examples of the type of initiatives a business could submit include using pollution control measures to protect a drinking water source, assisting a community with implementation of source protection efforts, providing outreach to schools and other businesses, or serving on a water resources planning committee.

All nominations received by June 30, 1996 will be considered for an award. Award presentations will occur at a public New England ceremony in September.

Bob Perciasepe, Assistant Administrator for Water, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, says "Safe drinking water is everybody's business. Companies are helping their workers, their neighbors, and themselves when they work with their local communities to prevent pollution to drinking water sources. A successful drinking water source protection program has to be built from the grass roots level, reflecting the concerns and needs of the community, and the close involvement of local businesses."

Steve Densberger, President, New England Water Works Association says "Business Source Water Protection Awards are an excellent opportunity to recognize businesses that are committed to the future quality of our drinking water supplies and to foster growth in partnerships everywhere among businesses, communities and local drinking water suppliers."

This awards program will benefit individual businesses and the community. As part of this business awards program, drinking water source protection workshops will be held around New England to highlight successful voluntary initiatives for drinking water source protection. These workshops will inspire and foster partnerships and cooperation among other business, communities and water suppliers. Since the majority of drinking water protection programs emphasize voluntary efforts, the cooperation of business is essential to the effectiveness of these programs.

John DeVillars, Regional Administrator of EPA's Region 1, New England Office, encourages businesses to participate in the program. "Few things are as important as protection of New England's water supplies. Common sense tells us that preventing contamination from entering water sources through protection is the most effective route to providing safe drinking water. New England businesses have been leaders in supporting local drinking water protection. Through this program, we will recognize their efforts and encourage more businesses to become involved with their local community and water supplier."

Ray Raposa, Executive Director, New England Water Works Association, states "The Association is excited to recognize businesses who have gone above and beyond any requirement in partnering with a community and the local water supplier to protect the sources of drinking water."

To receive a Nomination Packet including examples of successful business initiatives, or for further information contact: Peter Davison, New England Water Works Association, (508) 478-6996.