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News Release

June 9, 2008

American Water Works Association Kicks Off Annual Conference and Exposition (ACE08) in Atlanta
Water Industry Professionals from Across the U.S, Canada and Beyond Converge to Address Critical Water Issues

(DENVER) - The world's water community gathered today in Atlanta for the opening of the American Water Works Association's (AWWA) Annual Conference and Exposition (ACE08) from June 9-12, 2008. Thousands of water industry professionals will explore the future of safe water, gain insight into cutting-edge research and best practices, and experience the latest products and services available to the water community.

ACE08, held at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta, features a professional program consisting of approximately 100 sessions, comprised of more than 500 presentations given by more than 1,000 experts in the water industry, plus 14 in-depth workshops.

Highlights from the opening day include:

* The Opening General Session, featuring remarks by AWWA President Nilaksh Kothari. Kothari highlighted the current challenges facing the water community, including new and complex drinking water regulations, water resources and shortages, and aging infrastructure in need of significant repair or replacement. "We must do our very best thinking to explore new technologies, actively manage assets and resources, and find creative solutions to complex water treatment problems," Kothari said.

* A major joint announcement by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). At the event, the CDC became the first federal partner of EPA's WaterSense Program, an initiative to stimulate more efficient use of water in homes and, now, federal facilities. Dr. Julie Gerberding, CDC Director, and Benjamin H. Grumbles, EPA Assistant Administrator for Water, were on hand to sign the historic agreement. Both officials stressed their agencies' commitment to water conservation, noting that "every drop counts."

* The issuance of a new rule by the EPA concerning water transfer regulations. Grumbles also announced a rule to clarify that permits are not required for water transfers from one body of water to another. Such transfers include routing water through tunnels, channels, or natural stream courses for public water supplies, irrigation, power generation, flood control and environmental restoration.

* The Best of the Best Water Taste Test, featuring the winners of competitions held by AWWA sections over the past year. At this year's event, the Louisville (KY) Water Company, representing AWWA's Kentucky/Tennessee section, came away with the top prize.

Over the next few days, in addition to the numerous professional sessions, ACE08 will feature special events such as the always-entertaining AWWA Pipe-Tapping Contest - a fast-paced competition of skill in which water operators from across North America work against the clock to open cement-lined, ductile-iron pipe and install a tap.

The ACE08 Exposition features 500 exhibitors showcasing the latest products and services available to help ensure safe water. These exhibitors offer expert insight and hands-on understanding for everything from pipes to valves, meters to hydrants, engineering services to tank-related companies, membrane filtration systems to laboratory equipment, and security to wastewater. The New Product Technology Showcase also returns to highlight the newest and most innovative products and technology available.

Established in 1881, AWWA is the oldest and largest nonprofit, scientific and educational organization dedicated to safe water in North America. AWWA has over 60,000 members worldwide, and its 4,700 utility members serve 80 percent of America's population.

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AWWA is the authoritative resource for knowledge, information and advocacy to improve the quality and supply of water in North America and beyond. AWWA is the largest organization of water professionals in the world. AWWA advances public health, safety and welfare by uniting the efforts of the full spectrum of the water community. Through our collective strength we become better stewards of water for the greatest good of the people and the environment.

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American Water Works Association
The Authoritative Resource on Safe Water (R)