On behalf of water works professionals throughout Maine, I would like to remind the public during National Drinking Water Week (May 4-10) about the many vital but often overlooked benefits that only tap water delivers.

Each year, more than 3 million people worldwide die from preventable waterborne disease. But consumers in this country can safely drink from virtually any public water tap because all public water supplies are regularly monitored and tested for more than 100 potential contaminants, and are subject to rigorous federal and state public health standards.

A safe, sustainable water supply is fundamental to economic growth and prosperity, which, in turn, creates new jobs and an expanding local tax base. In terms of existing businesses, tap water is often critical to day-to-day operations and production.

Safe, reliable water supply and service support our country's high standard of living and unprecedented quality of life. From brewing coffee to operating a washing machine, water is essential to so many modern conveniences that we often take for granted.

To continue benefiting from the tremendous value of safe, reliable tap water and service, I urge consumers to support your local utility in gaining financial support from the federal, state, and local governments to help fund much needed infrastructure improvements and enhancements.

For further information, please contact your local water utility or visit www.newwa.org.

James W. West, President

New England Water Works Association

Holliston, Mass.