Drinking Water Awareness Week

Do you know where your water comes from?  The average American family uses more than 300 gallons of water per day at home, yet only 23% of Americans know where their water comes from.  The American Water Works Association has designated May 1 -7 as Drinking Water Awareness Week, with the 2016 theme being “Your Water: to know it is to love it.”

So, how do you ‘get to know your water’?  First, you can start by understanding that water and wastewater services are a 24/7/365 operation.  The Clinton County Health Department regulates approximately 210 Public Water Systems to ensure safe drinking water is provided to the public. They are responsible for monitoring more than 100 contaminants on a regular basis, staying in compliance with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the New York State Department of Health standards for drinking water. 

Each water system is maintained by a Water Operator, working hard to ensure that the water you drink is safe.  One such operator is Jamie Giroux, Water Operator at Saranac Central School District.  When asked why what he does is important to community health, he stated, “The process of supplying good, safe drinking water is very demanding and rewarding.  I always strive to provide only the highest quality of domestic drinking water.”  Part of ‘getting to know your water’ is most definitely understanding that there are many ‘real’ people working diligently every day to ensure that when you turn on your tap, safe, drinkable water comes out.  The Clinton County Health Department thanks Jamie Giroux and all of the other Water Operators out there for the excellent work they do!

Earth Day and Public Health

Earth Day started as a day of education about environmental issues. Founded in 1970 by Senator Gaylord Nelson, the movement began as a way to gain national attention to environmental causes. In 1990 Earth Day went global with over  140 countries participating. As Earth Day approaches its 50^th anniversary, an ambitious goal has been set.  The goal is to plant 7.8 million trees.

Why trees?

·         Trees clean the air- They absorb CO2, odors and pollutant gases by trapping them in their bark and leaves.

·         Trees conserve energy- When placed around your home can cut summer air conditioning needs. By reducing the energy demand, we reduce carbon dioxide and pollution emissions from power plants.

·         Trees help communities- Trees provide a habitat for animals, produce food that feed people, muffle sounds and can provide fuel for our homes.

The official Earth Day is April 22, 2016. Join your family and friends and plant some trees.