News

"Liquid Assets" Documentary Debuts

The new documentary "Liquid Assets: The Story of Our Water Infrastructure," has begun appearing on local public broadcasting systems. This special TV documentary focuses on the serious issues facing the nation’s water infrastructure. Produced by Penn State Public Broadcasting, the 90-minute program explores the critical role that our water systems play in protecting public health and promoting economic prosperity. Click here for broadcast information in your area. For additional online information about the program, visit www.liquidassets.psu.edu.

A Message to American Water Customers on Pharmaceuticals

At American Water, we take water quality and safety very seriously. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) sets water quality standards intended to protect public health and American Water treats and delivers water that meets or surpasses all EPA drinking water standards.

Currently, the EPA does not require water utilities to monitor for pharmaceuticals in water, nor have they set treatment standards for pharmaceuticals in water. However, research studies have shown that the treatment processes used by American Water can be effective for the removal of many of these compounds.

American Water has been and will continue to work in close collaboration with the EPA to set drinking water standards that protect the quality of our water supply. 

What does American Water do to protect the public from pharmaceutical contaminants?

While the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) does not require water utilities to monitor or treat for pharmaceuticals in drinking water, research studies have shown that American Water's treatment processes can be effective for the removal of many of these compounds. In many locations, American Water provides treatment using activated carbon, ozone, or other oxidants that can help remove many pharmaceuticals. American Water facilities are active in watershed and well-head protection programs to prevent pollutants from even entering our water supplies. For more than a decade, American Water has been active in supporting, and participating in research to better understand the occurrence, treatment, and health effects of trace levels of pharmaceuticals in water.