(We Don’t Want You to) Imagine a Day Without Water

Today (October 21) is the sixth annual recognition of Imagine a Day Without Water, which was created to raise awareness and educate Americans about the value of water. Not only is water critical to fulfilling basic human needs such as hydration and sanitation, but water is also a fundamental component in the success of nearly every industry across the globe. In fact, according to a recent report from the American Society for Civil Engineers and the Value of Water Campaign, at a national level, a one-day disruption in water services would result in a $43.5 billion daily sales loss to businesses and a $22.5 billion loss in GDP.

We know water keeps the world running, but we often forget about the people and processes that keep water flowing — even in challenging times. As we recognize the value of water, we should acknowledge the hard work that goes on behind the scenes that makes it possible for us to deliver over 1 billion gallons of water a day to the more than 14 million people throughout 46 states.

Here, three of our 6,800 employees who help keep water flowing share some truths about your tap water.

There are many factors at work that enable us to provide clean, safe, reliable and affordable water. Every day (and especially today), we raise a glass to the hard work that American Water employees — and water industry professionals across the globe — put in to helping ensure we will never have to imagine a day without water.