HARRISBURG – Recognizing the importance of safe and clean drinking water, state Sen. Gene Yaw (R-23) this week offered a Senate Resolution declaring May 5th through the 11th, 2019 as “Drinking Water Week” in Pennsylvania.
The week coincides with National Drinking Water Week, which celebrates the contributions of public water supply operators in providing safe drinking water for the nation’s residents. In Pennsylvania, there are more than 9,200 public water supply systems providing drinking water to eight out of 10 state residents.
“This year marks the 45th Anniversary of the Safe Drinking Water Act that forms the core of national efforts to provide quality drinking water and protect the health of our citizens,” Sen. Yaw said. “During the week of May 5th through the 11th, we recognize the importance of water source protection and conservation, as well as the value, importance, and fragility of Pennsylvania’s water resources.”
Senator Yaw noted the tasks facing state drinking water programs and public water systems continue to be extremely challenging. “The drinking water infrastructure in many areas of our state is aging and presents daunting resource demands. As a state and nation, we continue to be challenged by new and emerging drinking water contaminants.”
“Today, Pennsylvania renews its commitment to build on the successes of past years and will continue to work with all of our partners in the water community to fully realize the public health goals of the Safe Drinking Water Act through celebrating “Drinking Water Week,” Yaw added.
Pennsylvanians can conserve water by following a few simple actions both inside and outside the home:
- Check for leaks in toilets and pipes.
- Run full loads in clothing and dishwashing machines.
- Replace old showerheads with high-efficiency models.
- Mulch bushes and trees to retain moisture.
- Check for hose and nozzle leaks.
- Water early or late when temperatures are low to reduce evaporation.
- Recycle rainwater with barrels and buckets for watering plants.
- Plant water and drought-tolerant plants to reduce the need to water.
To learn more about “Drinking Water Week,” click here.
For more state-related news and information visit Senator Yaw’s website at www.SenatorGeneYaw.com or on Facebook and Twitter @SenatorGeneYaw.
CONTACT:
Nick Troutman
(717) 787-3280