It took a blind taste test to break a tie. After testing samples of water from across the state on taste, clarity, odor & color resulting in a tie, it was the taste of Lowell’s water that won the title of “Best Tasting Water” from the American Water Works Association Michigan Section. 

 Aaron Davenport, a representative of the AWWA Michigan Section, shared the wonderful news with the City Council to emphasize the significance of this award. Communities across the state gather samples in glass jars to compete at Regionals, which Lowell has won several times, before moving on to the state competition. 

 “They bested some really great water and multi-year champions,” said Davenport. “This time, we needed two over-times to make a decision. It came down to one sip of one, one sip of the other to decide.” 

 “Now, we continue to work hard to deliver top quality water to the City of Lowell,” said Water Plant Superintendent Brian VanVeelen. “Water Plant Operator Todd Philips, Utilities Supervisor Ralph Brecken & I are humbled and excited about this award. It’s an honor to be recognized by your peers. We will continue to work hard to keep our quality standards high for our community.” 

 In June 2020, Lowell will compete for the Best Water on the Continent in Orlando, Florida at the AWWA Annual Conference & Exposition. Michigan has had competitors finish in the Top 5 on the Continent competing against water from the U.S., Mexico and Canada. Michigan has some really great water and Lowell hopes to continue that record. 

 “If you think bottled water is better, this is the best in the state. For the cost of one bottle of Dasani, you can get 320 bottles right from your tap,” Davenport told the Council. 

 So, drink up! Lowell’s water and our water department team are the best!