Lowell submits a water sample to be evaluated by the Michigan Section of the American Water Works Association (AWWA). In previous years Lowell has been in serious contention in the past but this year it finally took the top honor.
Top in the State
Prior to competing on the state level, Lowell’s city water had to win one of five regional taste off which were held in the spring. Nearly 40 municipalities vied for the regional title. Winners from these regional contests are then invited to go head-to-head in the state competition.
When asked what the secret behind the best tasting water in Lowell, Water Plant Superintendent Brian VanVeelen replies, “I can’t tell you a trade secret.” VanVeelen has been in his role for eight years and has lived in the Lowell area his whole life. The plant is a groundwater lime softening and filtration plant. VanVeelen, along with Water Plant Operator Todd Phillips and Utilities Supervisor Ralph Brecken ensure that Lowell’s water is worthy of being some of the best in the state.
Those judging samples look at color, clarity, smell, and taste when seeking regional and state winners. A room temperature sample is submitted in a clean, one-quart canning jar. The next step for Lowell’s Best Tasting Water in the state is national competition. In June 2020 representatives from Lowell will take some of its water to Orlando. There they will be up against an anticipated 25-40 others from across North America.
A representative from AWWA was in attendance at the last City Council meeting to present the Best Tasting Water Award to the Water Plant’s workers.
Photos courtesy of Brian VanVeelen and used with permission.
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