FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 23, 2008

Drinking Water Week proclaimed May 4-10

COLUMBIA – During Drinking Water Week, May 4 through 10, South Carolinians are encouraged to learn more about their drinking water, the state Department of Health and Environmental Control announced today.

“Most of us turn on our faucets and expect clean water to come out,” said David Wilson, chief of DHEC’s Bureau of Water. “Water is one of our most precious natural resources yet, too often, it’s taken for granted.

“This week is a great time for each of us to think about ways we can protect our water resources and be more efficient with them,” Wilson said. “Using water-efficient appliances that have the EPA WaterSense label, washing full loads of clothes and dishes, and watering the lawn only when it needs it are all water and money-saving activities.”

According to Wilson, keeping fertilizer, pet waste, motor oil and pesticides from reaching the street and storm drains also helps protect drinking water sources.

Wilson said during Drinking Water Week, which has been officially proclaimed by Gov. Mark Sanford, many public water systems will offer guided tours of their plants, have workshops, presentations and sponsor essay and poster contests.

You can visit the American Water Works Association Web site at: http://www.awwa.org/dww for more information about Drinking Water Week activities.

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For more information:
Cheryl Salomone – (803) 898-4180
E-mail – salomocm@dhec.sc.gov
or
Adam Myrick – (803) 898-3884
E-mail – myrickar@dhec.sc.gov

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