By Mary Owen
For the third year in a row, the city of Stayton was named by the Oregon Association of Water Utilities as having the Best Tasting Surface Water in Oregon.
“People are amazed at how our water tastes compared to other areas that they have lived,” said Keith Campbell, city manager. “It can be hard to appreciate how amazing our water is without context of the other water supplies. I can speak from experience that when I go back to Kansas to visit my parents, the first glass of water I drink is always a shock to the taste buds.”
Campbell added, “At this point, we can say with confidence that Stayton has the best tasting water in Oregon. The community should be proud of the water that we produce!
The award is a testament to staff and the leadership of the Stayton community, Campbell said.
The title was claimed at the OAWU’s 41st Annual Technical and Management conference held each March at the Sunriver Resort. Stayton’s water quality was proven this year by an unbiased panel of three judges, who blind-taste tested drinking water from around the state, judging on clarity, bouquet and taste.
“This award illustrates the goals and objectives of our governing body and is a reflection of the hard work and dedication of our Public Works staff, and their continued commitment to providing our community the best water in the state of Oregon,” Campbell said.
Staff members include Tom Etzel, Bob Zellar, Michael Bradley, Kendall Smith, Mark Flande, Lance Ludwick, Lisa Meyer, Michael Schmidt and
Ian Kintz-Stormo.
The City of Stayton has been a member of the Oregon Association of Water Utilities since 2015. OAWU is a nonprofit organization with over 700 members and serves Oregon’s water and wastewater utilities in hands-on training and technical services. The association serves as a legislative liaison and is active in supporting legislation that improves the utilities that serve Oregon’s residents..
