FRANKFORT, KY (April 30, 2014) – Governor Steve Beshear has proclaimed May 4- 10, 2014, as Drinking Water Week in Kentucky as an observance of the value of water to each of us in our everyday lives. This year marks the 40th anniversary of the Safe Drinking Water Act that drives efforts to provide clean drinking water and protect the health of citizens. “Today, Kentucky renews its commitment to build on the successes of the past 39 years and to continue to work with all of our partners in the water community to fully realize the public health goals of the Safe Drinking Water Act by celebrating Drinking Water Week,” said Energy and Environment Secretary Len Peters. The Kentucky Division of Water (DOW) administers drinking water utility processes to ensure the water delivered to consumers meets all federal and state standards and is clean and abundant. “These efforts by the water division are vital to Kentucky’s economy and to the health of our citizens. Kentuckians rely on their water systems to provide a safe and dependable supply of water, both now and in the future,” said Secretary Peters. “And it’s important that we conserve water as best we can.” National Drinking Water Week recognizes the importance of water source protection and conservation, as well as the value, importance, and fragility of our state’s water resources. Kentuckians can conserve water by following a few simple actions both inside and outside the home: Check for leaks in toilets and pipes. Run full loads in clothing and dishwashing machines. Keep drinking water cooling in the refrigerator. Replace old showerheads with high-efficiency models. Mulch bushes and trees to retain moisture/ Check for hose and nozzle leaks. Water early or late when temperatures are low to reduce evaporation. Recycle rainwater with barrels and buckets for watering plants. Plant water and drought-tolerant plants to reduce the need to water. To learn more about how DOW is working to ensure safe drinking water in Kentucky, please visit http://water.ky.gov/DrinkingWater/Pages/InformationforConsumers.aspx.