I’m not a water or wastewater system operator. I don’t manage stormwater, protect source water or treat any kind of water.
I would never pretend to know half as much as you do about operating and maintaining these systems.
Just as major successes are typically the culmination of efforts and inputs, great tragedies are usually the result of many factors in communion. I’m not about to say I know what led to the tragic, devastating fires in the Los Angeles area in January. I’m certainly not going to talk politics, criticise, ascribe blame or even assume — from my office in Wisconsin — that I know anything about all the factors that contributed to that massive disaster in Southern California.
Stories of low pressure and even dry hydrants. A reservoir out of service. This should have been cut. That should have been built differently. As I said, I don’t know enough to even comment on the particulars. But in a very big-picture sense, it’s hard to think of another example that better highlights the utterly critical, life-and-death importance of efficient, resilient and well maintained water systems. Likewise of the work you do.
I hope you take advantage of every opportunity to share your utilities’ stories and educate your communities about how essential your work is to their health and safety.
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