Outreach & Education

COG and its local governments and water utilities focus on ways to integrate outreach and education efforts with broader water resource efforts in the region – as part of a ‘one water’ approach.  These efforts include participating in broader source water protection efforts for the entire Potomac River basin, as well as specific programs to address local water resource issues. 

Community Engagement Campaign

COG and the region’s water and wastewater utilities engage with citizens about the value of water and ways to protect water infrastructure and their household pipes, via its Community Engagement Campaign (CEC), a partnership between COG and the region’s water and wastewater utilities.

COG adopted the national Water, Use it Wisely program to demonstrate simple wise water use practices, which are especially critical in times of drought.

COG and the CEC also communicate the value of water, and advocate for tap water. One way they do this is via the TapIt Metro DC campaign. TapIt is a network of regional establishments that provide easy access to tap water.

COG and the CEC also manage the Protect Your Pipes public education campaign about proper care of household plumbing, including information on keeping unwanted items from being flushed down toilets and poured down drains. 

CEC Member Jurisdictions:
Arlington County DES
City of Rockville
Fairfax County
Frederick County Division of Utilities and Solid Waste
Town of Leesburg
Town of Purcellville Department of Public Works

CEC Member Utilities and Authorities:
DC Water
Fairfax Water
Loudoun Water
Upper Occoquan Service Authority
Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission (WSSC)
Prince William County Service Authority