Statement From NAWC President And CEO Robert F. Powelson On The Film 'Dark Waters'

Washington, D.C. -- In response to the upcoming release of the film “Dark Waters” and the important discussions being raised regarding PFAS/PFOA contamination in America’s drinking water, NAWC President and CEO Robert F. Powelson released the following statement:

“The National Association of Water Companies (NAWC) and its members welcome the attention Dark Waters will have on raising awareness about chemicals in our water.

NAWC has been advocating for the Environmental Protection Agency to complete the process of determining a maximum contaminant level (MCL) for PFAS. NAWC also believes that polluters should pay for treatment and clean-up costs related to PFAS contamination, not ratepayers.  

Our member companies have already committed to not only publicly disclose when PFOS and/or PFOA is found to be at levels above the EPA health advisory or applicable state standards but also to take steps to reduce those levels in the finished water delivered to consumers. 

The top priority for NAWC members is reliably delivering safe, high-quality drinking water to the 73 million Americans they serve. Our members have an exceptional record of compliance with federal and state health and environmental regulations because water company professionals consistently monitor and test drinking water to ensure it meets or exceeds regulatory requirements. 

We welcome the attention Dark Waters is bringing to water quality issues that affect millions of Americans every day.”