National Water Quality Month was found in 2005 by the EPA with the backing of the UN. This month we take the time to acknowledge the importance of of water and how precious the limited fresh water we have is. In the CNY region we are spoiled with an abundant amount of high quality fresh water and here at OCWA we take an active role in ensuring that you not only receive the highest quality water today, but for generations to come.

 

What is the Purpose of National Water Quality Month?

Without easy access to water, your life would look a lot different. You wouldn’t be able to quench your thirst by turning on a faucet or drinking from a fountain. You wouldn’t be able to jump into the pool, lake or river to cool off on these hot summer days. No more hour-long showers. No more running water in your house, period.

National Water Quality Month reminds us to take time out of our busy schedule to think about how important these water sources are not only for humans, but also for the other inhabitants of these ecosystems, whether it is the fish living in these water or the plants and animals that depend on these lakes and rivers for water just like us.

There are many factors that can have a negative impact on the quality of your local water sources ranging from industrial pollutants like metal particulate, oils, and other chemicals to the pesticides we use in our own backyards.

 

 

Linked below is an example of one of the many ways we ensure the protection of our fresh drinking water and the bodies of water that deliver it:

Otisco Lake Watershed Inspections – OCWA