Drinking Water Week: Celebrating Water You Can Count On and the People Behind It!
When you turn on the tap, clean, reliable water is just… there.
But a lot goes into making that happen.
Drinking Water Week (May 3–9, 2026) is a time to recognize the essential role water plays in our daily lives—and the people working behind the scenes to keep it safe and flowing.
Drinking Water Week was established by the American Water Works Association, in partnership with the League of Women Voters, the Association of State Drinking Water Administrators, and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. With support from Robert Roe and Dennis DeConcini, the first week of May was officially designated as Drinking Water Week in 1988, when Ronald Reagan signed it into law.
Water You Can Count On
Here in Kitsap County, Kitsap Public Utility District plays an important role in ensuring our community has access to safe, reliable drinking water every day.
From protecting local water sources to supporting water systems and strengthening infrastructure, KPUD is committed to delivering water you can count on 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
But safe drinking water doesn’t happen by accident. It takes planning, monitoring, investment, and a team of dedicated professionals who care deeply about the work.
Recognizing a Career of Service
This year, we’re especially proud to celebrate one of those professionals.
KPUD’s recently retired Senior Water Resources Manager, Joel Purdy, has been named a Lifetime Achievement Award recipient by the Washington State Department of Health. This honor recognizes a career of meaningful, lasting contributions to the drinking water field.
Joel’s work has helped strengthen how we understand and manage water resources across Kitsap County from improving data systems and monitoring to supporting long-term water planning. His efforts have made a lasting impact on the reliability and protection of our local water supply.
Why It Matters
Drinking Water Week is a reminder to:
- Appreciate the safe, reliable water we depend on every day
- Recognize the people who make it possible
- Understand the importance of protecting water resources for the future
At KPUD, we’re committed to doing just that. Serving our communities and protecting the resources we all rely on.
Join us on our Facebook page this week as we celebrate the essential role water plays in our community.