VOORHEES, NJ, Feb. 3, 2011 -- American Water Works Company Inc. (NYSE: AWK), the largest investor-owned U.S. water and wastewater utility company, announced today that it has been awarded a research grant of $250,000 from the Water Research Foundation. American Water will directly receive $125,000 to pay for analytical costs, supplies, labor, and other research costs, and approximately 20 utilities will provide in-kind contributions of $590,992. The total value of the project is $840,992.
The study, titled "An Operational Definition of Biostability in Drinking Water," will examine practical indicators of distribution system biostability including change in biodegradable organic matter; disinfectant demand and biodegradation of haloacetic acids; biofilm formation and corrosion rates; and biological consumption of ammonia, nitrate, and phosphate. American Water, which will serve as the project lead, will perform the research in collaboration with Dr. Patrick Evans, Vice President with CDM.
"We are pleased that the Water Research Foundation continues to recognize American Water as a leader in industry research," said Dr. Mark LeChevallier, director of Environmental Stewardship and Innovation. "Our team of expert scientists and engineers, coupled with our large and diverse geographical footprint, provides an exceptional opportunity to study and develop best practices for the water industry."
About the Water Research Foundation
Founded in 1966, the Water Research Foundation is an international, 501c(3) nonprofit organization that sponsors research to enable water utilities, public health agencies and other professionals to provide safe and affordable drinking water to the public. With more than 950 subscriber members who provide water for 80 percent of the U.S. population, the Water Research Foundation has funded and managed more than 1,000 projects. For more information, go to www.waterrf.org.
About American Water
Founded in 1886, American Water is the largest investor-owned U.S. water and wastewater utility company. With headquarters in Voorhees, N.J., the company employs more than 7,000 dedicated professionals who provide drinking water, wastewater and other related services to approximately 15 million people in more than 30 states as well as parts of Canada. More information can be found at www.amwater.com.
In 2011, American Water is celebrating its 125th anniversary with a yearlong campaign to promote water efficiency and the importance of protecting water from source to tap. To learn more, visit www.amwater125.com.
About CDM
CDM is a consulting, engineering, construction and operations firm delivering exceptional service to public and private clients worldwide. With headquarters in Cambridge, Massachusetts, CDM has more than 4,500 employees in more than 120 offices across the globe -- offering a full range of services in water, environment, transportation, energy, and facilities. Visit www.cdm.com.
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