The Water Tower Celebrates Fifth Annual National Backflow Prevention Day

More than 150 water professionals gathered for a day of education, demonstrations and industry collaborations

Buford, GA — More than 150 water professionals gathered at The Water Tower (TWT) on August 12 for the fifth annual National Backflow Prevention Day Celebration, held in partnership with Georgia Rural Water Association (GRWA).

The annual event brings together water professionals, utilities, manufacturers and industry partners to recognize the critical role backflow prevention plays in protecting drinking water systems and public health. This year’s celebration featured a full day of educational presentations, live demonstrations, networking, and opportunities for attendees to earn continuing education credits.

“We’re proud to celebrate five years of bringing water professionals together to share knowledge, explore new technologies, and strengthen the practices that help protect our communities’ water supplies,” said Melissa Meeker, CEO of The Water Tower. “Backflow prevention is an important part of protecting water quality, and events like this create opportunities for professionals across the industry to learn from one another and stay informed about new developments.”

Throughout the day, attendees heard from industry experts on a range of topics related to backflow prevention, including emerging technologies, air valves, new devices, and product advancements. The program also featured a live K9 water leak detection demonstration by Vickery K9, giving attendees a firsthand look at an innovative approach to identifying leaks within water systems.

Attendees also had the opportunity to connect with exhibitors and industry partners showcasing products, technologies, and resources supporting backflow prevention and the broader water industry.

The 2026 celebration marked five years of National Backflow Prevention Day events at The Water Tower. Through its partnership with GRWA and support from participating organizations, TWT continues to provide opportunities for water professionals to strengthen their knowledge, build industry connections and advance practices that help protect water quality.

Harry Warren of Georgia served as the event’s Platinum Sponsor, with Zurn Wilkins Serving as the Platinum Lunch Sponsor, alongside the many sponsors, presenters, and attendees who helped make the fifth annual celebration possible.

For more information on The Water Tower and its programs, visit www.theh2otower.org.

About The Water Tower

The Water Tower Global Innovation Hub is committed to creating a thriving ecosystem and reimagining water innovation to attract, train, and prepare the future water workforce and accelerate technology transfer. The Water Tower brings together public and private sectors of the water industry—side by side with academia and nonprofits—to tackle the industry’s greatest challenges. Learn more at www.theh2otower.org.