Who is a member?
Our members are the local governments of Massachusetts and their elected and appointed leadership.
In recognition of National Drinking Water Week, the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection announced on May 5 that 42 public water systems, four certified operators, two towns, and two child care advocates received awards for public water service in 2025.
Awards were given based on demonstrated outstanding water service, an absence of violations or compliance issues, and support for the overall public water supply.
The awards were announced at a ceremony in Shirley.
Awards categories included Non-Transient Non-Community Systems, Small Community Systems, Medium and Large Community Systems, Consecutive Systems, Water Conservation Awards, Energy Conservation Award, and the STAR L Award for lead reduction actions within a system.
The towns of Orleans and Essex received Energy Conservation awards for using Gap Energy Grant funds to complete projects that lower both energy usage and financial costs.
The Amherst Water Division received the Star L award for demonstrated commitment to public health via participation in a Water-Smart pilot program to identify potential lead sources and take actions to improve drinking water quality.
The MassDEP also awarded regional recognitions and distinguished operator awards within each of the department’s four regions.
The list of award recipients is available on mass.gov.