Community

Protecting the Source: A Call to Action

The source water protection presentation featured Jennifer Heymann [F], Brad Whitman [C], Danny Edwards [D] and Andrew Kota [E] They emphasized the importance of safeguarding bodies of water, such as rivers, streams, lakes, and reservoirs, which provide water for public drinking-water use and private wells. Protecting these sources and watersheds from contamination reduces the risk of harmful germs or pollutants in the water and lowers the cost of drinking water treatment processes.

Building Trusting Relationships as the Core of Community Engagement

Katherine Baer [G] from the River Network led the presentation on building trusting relationships as the core of community engagement. The session highlighted the significance of local decision-making in water infrastructure investment and the need for collaboration between community groups and water utilities. Baer shared insights from successful water utilitycommunity partnerships across the country and discussed foundational practices for creating authentic and trusting relationships. The presentation emphasized the importance of public trust in sustainable water management and provided actionable steps for participants to consider in their operations and planning.

Regional Economic Impact

Dr. Adrienne Hua [H] presented on the regional economic impacts of the Catawba River. The presentation emphasized the river’s crucial role in supporting human needs and the local economy. With population growth on the rise in the Carolinas, Hua explored the establishment of the “value of water” for residential water supply, industry, commerce, and agriculture. The presentation underscored the importance of responsible growth and source water protection in ensuring sustainable economic development.