06
Nov
2020
Treatment

Public Perception and Trust of U.S. Drinking Water Quality
11
Sep
2020
Treatment
by Water Quality & Health Council

Legionella Bacteria Concerns Grow as Schools Reopen

In a nutshell… COVID-19, building closures, and stagnant water can form an unfortunate “trifecta” when it comes to Legionella bacteria and other microorganism growth in building water systems. This article highlights recent reports of Legionella detections in school water systems and steps to safely reopen school buildings to protect students, faculty, staff, and visitors.  ... Read More »
21
Aug
2020
Outbreaks
by Bob G. Vincent, MPA

How Algal Blooms Can Impact Water Quality: What You Should Know

In a nutshell… The summer of coronavirus (COVID-19) has been relatively mild for blue-green algae (cyanobacteria) blooms in the Great Lakes. But problem areas can be found in many states. This article provides an overview of the public health importance of harmful algal blooms on recreational waters and sources of treated drinking water.   Photo... Read More »
15
May
2020
Treatment
by Joan B. Rose, PhD

New Concerns for Legionella after Coronavirus: Reopening Buildings

In a nutshell… One result of the sweeping closures of buildings during the COVID-19 pandemic is a sharp increase in stagnant water and conditions that can support Legionella growth in building water systems. This article highlights steps that CDC recommends to be taken when reopening and reoccupying buildings.   Lower photo credit: CDC/James Gathany Millions... Read More »
28
Feb
2020
Treatment
by Stephen A. Hubbs, PE

Flush with Success: Water Mains and Fire Hydrants

In a nutshell… Virtually all U.S. public water suppliers flush their distribution systems from time to time by opening “blow off” valves and fire hydrants. Regular flushing of water mains improves water quality and increases the reliability of their treated drinking water. You can do this in your home, too!   Perhaps you’ve seen and... Read More »
07
Feb
2020
Treatment
by Water Quality & Health Council

In the Balance: Drinking Water Chlorination and Disinfection Byproducts

In a nutshell… Drinking water chlorination requires balancing well-known risks of waterborne disease with potential long-term risks of exposure to disinfection byproducts (DBPs). This article highlights how the spread of misleading communications about DBP research can weaken public support for drinking water chlorination.   We’ve written extensively about drinking water chlorination, ranging from its remarkable... Read More »
10
Jan
2020
Treatment
by Chris Wiant, MPH, PhD

Celebrating the Safe Drinking Water Act: 45 Years Later

In a nutshell… It’s never too late to celebrate safe drinking water. December 16th, 2019, marked the 45th anniversary of the Safe Drinking Water Act, which continues to serve as the blueprint for protecting U.S. drinking water from source to tap.   Monday, December 16, 2019, marked the 45th anniversary of the Safe Drinking Water... Read More »
15
Nov
2019
Treatment
by Bob G. Vincent, MPA, and Stephen A. Hubbs, PE

How to Disinfect Water Storage Tanks Using Chlorine Bleach

Eight-five percent of Americans get their daily drinking water from a community water system. About 15% rely on a private well for some or all of their household water. But just about everyone has seen and drunk water from a water storage tank or trailer. They come in all shapes and sizes. Many are permanent; others are temporary like those used at large outdoor events and “water buffalos” used by the military.... Read More »