MUSCATINE, Iowa — The City of Muscatine is joining communities across the state to celebrate Water and Wastewater Workers of Iowa Week from August 23 through August 29, 2026. This special week honors the dedicated professionals who work around the clock to provide clean drinking water and protect local natural resources.
Governor Kim Reynolds recently signed an official proclamation declaring this appreciation week. The year 2026 marks the 16th consecutive year an Iowa governor has formally recognized these essential workers.
Honoring Muscatine’s local utility heroes
From maintaining water quality to protecting the environment, Muscatine’s water and wastewater professionals play a critical role in everyday life. Water and Wastewater Workers of Iowa Week offers a chance to recognize their commitment and thank them for their tireless service to the community.
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In Muscatine, two crucial teams keep the city’s water cycle running safely and efficiently:
- Muscatine Power and Water (MPW): The team at MPW manages the public water supply. They ensure that families and businesses have constant access to safe, reliable, and affordable drinking water.
- Muscatine Pollution Control Plant: This team safely manages and treats wastewater. They clean used water and protect the Mississippi River environment from harmful pollution.
Both teams act as quiet, everyday heroes. They maintain complex underground pipes, run sophisticated testing equipment, and respond to emergencies in all types of severe weather.
Muscatine is fortunate to sit above the Muscatine Island Aquifer, a plentiful groundwater source. MPW’s system of wells and transmission lines delivers more than 10 billion gallons annually to homes, businesses, and industries.
The WPCP collects and treats wastewater from homes, businesses, and industries across Muscatine. Wastewater moves through a network of pipes and pumping stations before reaching the facility, where harmful organisms and contaminants are removed. The cleaned water is then safely returned to the Mississippi River.
History and origin of the week
The special week began 15 years ago to highlight a vital workforce that is often taken for granted. Governor Terry Branstad signed the very first official proclamation in 2011 during a ceremony at the Ames wastewater treatment plant. Since then, the tradition has grown. Every year, the Iowa Association of Municipal Utilities (IAMU) and local cities use this timeframe to showcase how utility teams safeguard public health and boost local economies.
How to show your support
The City of Muscatine encourages residents to thank these local workers during the week. You can participate by:
- Posting thank-you messages on social media using the hashtag #ThankAWaterWorker.
- Learning more about how your water is cleaned and delivered.
- Dropping off treats or cards at city administrative offices to show your appreciation.
