Water: The Lifeblood of Kansas City
In the vibrant city of Kansas City, we often go about our daily routines without giving much thought to one of the most essential resources in our lives — water. We’re all aware of the fun fact that our bodies are composed of 60-70% water, but have you ever truly stopped to consider how vital water is beyond just hydration? From taking a shower to doing the laundry, cooking delicious meals or cleaning our homes, each of these activities hinges on having reliable and safe water. It’s not just a cliché to say, “water is life,” it’s a truth we experience every day.
An Invitation to Reflect
Every year, an initiative called Imagine a Day Without Water encourages us to pause and reflect on the significance of this precious resource. Spearheaded by the U.S. Water Alliance, this event serves as a reminder of how deeply intertwined water is with our lives and the need for us to band together to protect this vital resource. As a water engineering expert, I get the privilege of delving into the blueprints and systems that make our local water and wastewater treatment work. My job allows me to see firsthand the intricacies behind the scenes, and I am fortunate to play a role in delivering clean, safe water to our community.
The Journey of Our Water
Every time you turn on a faucet, it’s easy to take for granted how that water got there. It’s important to note that behind every drop of water is a complex network of pipes that transport it from treatment plants right to our taps. In Kansas City, our primary source of water runs through the Missouri River, a magnificent waterway that eases our daily tasks and provides sustenance for our bodies. But, what goes down the drain eventually comes back as wastewater, which means we need to be mindful about what we’re putting into our water systems.
Understanding Finite Resources
Water is a finite resource. The very water we rely on today will still be the same water our grandchildren will depend on tomorrow. This realization brings with it a sense of responsibility. It’s crucial that we consider what we’re dumping into our waterways, particularly as new challenges like PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) arise. These human-made chemicals, often found in nonstick cookware and weatherproof coatings, are becoming a serious concern for water quality. Now more than ever, we need to develop new technologies to tackle these emerging issues and safeguard our waterways for years to come.
Simple Steps for Big Impact
So, how can you help protect our water sources? Thankfully, it doesn’t take a lot to make a significant difference. One of the easiest ways to contribute is to properly dispose of household chemicals, batteries, paints, and other harmful materials that might end up contaminating our water. Simple acts like monitoring and reporting leaks can go a long way in preserving our water supply. Did you know that the water running down the street usually has gone through extensive treatment? That process consumes money, energy, and labor, all of which could be conserved with thoughtful practices.
Join the Movement
On October 17, I encourage everyone in our Kansas City community to take a moment to reflect on the role water plays in our lives. From brushing our teeth to quenching our thirst and beyond, this resource is critical to our well-being. More importantly, let’s recognize our shared responsibility to protect it. It’s not just about what we use today, but ensuring its availability for future generations. Together, we can secure the longevity of our water sources and contribute to a sustainable future.
Remember, protecting our water is a collective effort, and it starts with you!
