DENVER, Colo., May 21, 2003 -- Jack Hoffbuhr, Executive Director, American Water Works Association (AWWA) released the following statement about the resignation of US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Christie Whitman.
Established in 1881, AWWA is the oldest and largest nonprofit scientific and educational organization dedicated to safe drinking water in North America. AWWA has over 57,000 members worldwide and its 4,500 utility members serve 80 percent of America's population.
"On behalf of the 57,000 members of the American Water Works Association (AWWA), we salute EPA Administrator Christie Whitman for her public service and we wish her the best of luck in her future pursuits.
"Following the terrorist attacks of 9/11, AWWA's water utility membership has worked in partnership with Administrator Whitman and the EPA to assure that America's water supply is safe from the threat of terrorism. The successful mobilization of expertise, training, resources and funding to begin the water utility security vulnerability assessment and emergency response planning process is a reflection of Administrator Whitman's dedication and commitment to assuring that America's water supply is the safest and most secure in the world.
"AWWA feels fortunate to have had an EPA Administrator who was knowledgeable and responsive to our utility membership's concerns and challenges to keeping America's water supply clean, safe and healthy.
"Challenges still remain and AWWA encourages the Bush Administration to consider the selection of a new EPA Administrator that reflects a commitment to supporting the efforts of America's water utilities."
AWWA is the authoritative resource for knowledge, information, and advocacy to improve the quality and supply of drinking water in North America and beyond. AWWA is the largest organization of water professionals in the world. AWWA advances public health, safety and welfare by uniting the efforts of the full spectrum of the drinking water community. Through our collective strength we become better stewards of water for the greatest good of the people and the environment.
