Des Moines Water Works

Lg-des-moines-water-works-logo

Des Moines Water Works (DMWW) is a municipal water utility serving the city of Des Moines, Iowa, and surrounding areas. It is responsible for providing residents with safe, clean drinking water and managing the city's wastewater and stormwater systems. Established in the late 19th century, Des Moines Water Works has grown to become a critical infrastructure component for the region, ensuring the public health and welfare of its community through the management of water resources.

History

The origins of Des Moines Water Works trace back to the 1870s when the need for a reliable and clean water supply became apparent with the city's growing population. Initially, water was sourced from the Des Moines River, but as demand increased and pollution concerns arose, the utility sought alternative sources. By the early 20th century, Des Moines Water Works had expanded its infrastructure to include wells, reservoirs, and an extensive distribution system to meet the city's needs.

Water Sources and Treatment

Des Moines Water Works sources its water primarily from the Raccoon and Des Moines Rivers. The utility operates three treatment plants: Fleur Drive, L.D. McMullen at Maffitt Reservoir, and Saylorville Water Treatment Plant, which together have the capacity to treat millions of gallons of water per day. The treatment process includes sedimentation, filtration, and disinfection to ensure that the water meets or exceeds all federal and state drinking water standards.

Management and Operations

The governance of Des Moines Water Works is overseen by a Board of Trustees, appointed by the Mayor of Des Moines. The utility operates independently from the city as a municipal utility, allowing it to reinvest revenues directly into the system's maintenance and improvement. Its operations are funded primarily through water rates and fees charged to its customers.

Challenges and Innovations

Des Moines Water Works faces numerous challenges, including aging infrastructure, pollution in its water sources, and the impacts of climate change. In recent years, the utility has been involved in high-profile legal actions aimed at addressing agricultural runoff, which is a significant source of pollution in the Raccoon and Des Moines Rivers. Additionally, DMWW is exploring and implementing innovative technologies and practices to improve water quality and efficiency, such as advanced water treatment processes and watershed management strategies.

Community Engagement

Des Moines Water Works is committed to educating the public about water conservation, water quality issues, and the value of water resources. The utility conducts tours of its facilities, participates in community events, and provides resources and programs designed to engage residents in the stewardship of water.

Future Directions

Looking forward, Des Moines Water Works continues to focus on sustainable water management practices, infrastructure upgrades, and resilience planning to address the challenges of a changing climate and growing population. The utility's efforts to ensure a safe, reliable water supply while protecting the environment exemplify its role as a leader in the water utility sector.