June 22, 2010

CONTACT:

Farrell Sklerov / Michael Saucier (718) 595-6600

Statement of NYC Environmental Protection Commissioner Cas Holloway On New York City’s Second Place Finish and Top Rank Among All Competing Large Cities at the American Water Works Association ‘Best of the Best Water Taste Test’ National Contest Held in Chicago

“New York City’s strong showing at the ‘Best of the Best Water Taste Test’ confirms a fact that locals have known for decades: New York City water is simply the best. Not only does our water taste great, but it is also one of the secret ingredients in our world-famous bagels and pizza. New York City’s water is exceptionally healthy, and comes to us by a water system that is a marvel of engineering. Our watershed protection program, one of the most comprehensive in the world, has been so successful at protecting the integrity of our water supply that New York City remains one of only five large cities in the country that is not required to filter the majority of its drinking water. Today’s achievement is a reminder that the investments we make in our water system continue to pay off for the 9 million New Yorkers who get to enjoy NYC Water every day. This is also a great day for the professional DEP employees who work hard every day to uphold the high quality of the drinking water system from mountaintop to tap.”

More information about the American Water Works Association and the national contest can be found at www.awwa.org.

DEP manages the City’s water supply, providing more than 1 billion gallons of water each day to more than 9 million residents, including 8 million in New York City, and residents of Ulster, Orange, Putnam and Westchester counties. New York City’s water is delivered from a watershed that extends more than 125 miles from the City, and comprises 19 reservoirs, and three controlled lakes. Approximately 7,000 miles of water mains, tunnels and aqueducts bring water to homes and businesses throughout the five boroughs, and 7,400 miles of sewer lines take wastewater to 14 in-City treatment plants. Approximately 1,000 DEP employees live and work in the watershed communities as scientists, engineers, surveyors, and administrative professionals, and perform other critical responsibilities. DEP has invested over $1.5 billion in watershed protection programs—including partnership organizations such as the Catskill Watershed Corporation and the Watershed Agricultural Council—that support sustainable farming practices, environmentally sensitive economic development, and local economic opportunity.