State agencies note company’s work in maintaining optimum fluoride levels to benefit public’s dental health

The Illinois Department of Health and Illinois Environmental Protection Agency recognized Illinois American Water’s Peoria District for maintaining fluoride levels in drinking water for each month in 2009. The Peoria District was one of 22 Illinois American Water systems in 11 service districts that received awards. Many districts served by Illinois American Water had multiple years of providing optimum fluoride levels to customers.

“Community water fluoridation is an efficient, economical way to promote dental health,” according to Dr. Damon T. Arnold, state public health director. “Water fluoridation is an effective way to prevent tooth decay and improve overall oral health for both children and adults.”

The Illinois American Water operating systems were recognized in Springfield at the 2010 Illinois Section of the American Water Works Association meeting. The Peoria system was recognized for marinating optimum fluoride levels for 11 consecutive years. Founded in 1881, AWWA is the authoritative resource on safe water, with more than 60,000 members worldwide sharing knowledge on water resource development, water and wastewater treatment technology, water storage and distribution, and utility management and operations.

According to the Illinois Department of Public Health, 99 percent of those served by public water systems in Illinois receive the benefit of fluoridated drinking water compared to the current national average of 66 percent. Fluoride is found naturally in water, but in many communities, the amount of the mineral is too low and does not meet the required standards.

“Illinois American Water takes its commitment to water quality very seriously,” said Karla Teasley, president of Illinois American Water. “Maintaining optimal fluoridation levels to benefit the communities we serve is just one way to enhance the quality of life in our communities.”

Illinois American Water is committed to delivering high-quality water and reliable water and/or wastewater service to all of its customers. Each year, more than 57,000 water quality tests are conducted to ensure high-quality drinking water is produced at every stage of the water treatment and delivery process.