Test

Testing 123 Link

Test

Testing 123 Link

Header

The Indiana Department of Environmental Management's (IDEM's) Hoosier Water Guardian program recognizes communities that take voluntary measures beyond regulatory requirements to preserve and protect the state's valuable water resources. Bruno Pigott, assistant commissioner of the IDEM Office of Water Quality, presented the "Hoosier Water Guardian Award" to the City of Muncie, operated by Indiana American Water during a ceremony at the Indiana Section of the American Water Works Association Conference at the Indianapolis Marriot on February 17.

"The City of Muncie has taken important steps toward protecting water quality," said Pigott.

Muncie, which also draws water from surface sources, uses three wells located along the banks of the White River.

Proper well closure has been a high priority for the drinking water system, and the local planning team meets regularly to proactively work to protect surface and ground water resources. Storm water management is a large component of upcoming plans, with educational events focusing on rain barrels and green roofs planned for the spring.

Muncie was one of eight communities to be honored with the Hoosier Water Guardian Award.

"These eight communities have made the choice to enhance the protection of drinking water sources, and by extension, the health of their residents," said Thomas Easterly, IDEM commissioner. "These actions require extraordinary dedication, and the combined efforts of citizens, businesses and local governments."
IDEM encourages citizens to help protect ground water resources through activities such as following label instructions when using lawn fertilizers and chemicals, ensuring that household chemicals are properly disposed of, and properly managing solid waste.

For information about the Indiana Hoosier Water Guardian program, visit www.idem.IN.gov/4296.htm.

Other communities honored were the Federal Corrections Center, Terre Haute; The City of Carmel; Jamestown Municipal Water; Kokomo operated by Indiana American Water; The City of Ligonier; Mooresville operated by Indiana American Water; and, Southern Indiana, Jeffersonville operated by Indiana American Water.

Larry Wood and Michael James, City of Muncie, accepted Hoosier Water Guardian award at the American Water Works Association Conference in Indianapolis. Eight water facilities were recognized by the Indiana Department of Environmental Management for taking voluntary measures to protect water quality.

About IDEM
IDEM (www.idem.IN.gov) implements federal and state regulations regarding the environment. Through compliance assistance, incentive programs and educational outreach, the agency encourages and aids business and citizens in protecting Hoosiers and our environment.

- 30 -

Event Details