Behind the Scenes Operators

Keeping the water flowing amid a global pandemic

“Unprecedented.”
“Flatten the curve.”
“CDC guidance says to wash your hands.”

2020 – and a global pandemic – brought an onslaught of new phrases, and a time when washing our hands felt more imperative than ever before. But while washing our hands has crossed our minds countless times since, many of us didn’t stop to consider where the clean water flowing from our faucets comes from or where it goes after we’re done.

Thanks to the behind-the-scenes efforts of the water and wastewater operators in our communities, we’ve never had to worry where our water came from or where it went. During the pandemic, they continued providing clean water and safely treating wastewater at a time when we needed it most. To share and celebrate their dedication, skill, and ingenuity, Garver launched the Behind-the-Scenes Operators Initiative to give an inside look at what it takes to bring safe water from natural sources to our faucets and return that water safely back to rivers and lakes. We connected with eight operators from across the country about what it takes to keep our communities supplied with safe, reliable water amid a global pandemic. Check out their stories below, and don’t forget to thank your local operators!