Water Supply Invites Hawai‘i Island Community to Celebrate Drinking Water Week
Water Supply Invites Hawai‘i Island Community to Celebrate Drinking Water Week
The Department of Water Supply (DWS), County of Hawai‘i, is hosting public outreach events in Hilo and Kona to raise awareness about the importance of safe, reliable and sustainable drinking water in celebration of Drinking Water Week, May 3-9, 2026.
This annual observance led by the American Water Works Association (AWWA) serves to highlight the importance of healthy drinking water and recognize the tireless efforts of water professionals who keep it flowing in our communities around the clock.
“Clean drinking water is a lifeline that keeps our families healthy, supports our economy, and sustains our community,” Mayor Kimo Alameda said. “I want to thank the Department of Water Supply and its committed staff for the essential work they do every single day.”
Drinking Water Week also reaffirms DWS’ mission to provide customers with an adequate and continuous supply of safe drinking water in a financially responsible manner.
“During Drinking Water Week, we celebrate more than just water – we recognize the people, infrastructure, and commitment it takes to deliver safe, dependable drinking water,” said Keith Okamoto, DWS Manager-Chief Engineer. “It’s a responsibility we take seriously every single day, because our communities depend on it.”
DWS invites the public to visit a display booth and test their drinking water knowledge to win a prize at the following locations:
- 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday, May 4 at Hawai‘i Police Department Hilo Station, 349 Kapi‘olani Street, Hilo
- 10:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Wednesday, May 6 at the West Hawai‘i Civic Center, 74-5044 Ane Keohokalole Highway, Building C, Kailua-Kona
- 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Friday, May 8 at Aupuni Center, 101 Pauahi Street, Hilo
Founded in 1949, DWS is a semi-autonomous Hawai‘i County agency governed by the Water Board. Using revenues generated from water customers, it operates and maintains 23 public water systems that together deliver 25 to 30 million gallons of safe drinking water daily to more than 125,000 people.
