AWWA DSS58712

The American Water Works Association (AWWA) has been conducting surveys of water utility information virtually since its beginnings in 1881. The information age has brought with it both powerful computer technology and an intensified need for more and better data to assist decision-making for complex problems. During the 1990's, various survey forerunners became the WATER:\STATS program which gathers information from drinking water suppliers in several functional areas. AWWA conducted the WATER:\STATS Distribution Survey in 2002. The survey was an opportunity to gather more specific water distribution data than had been done in the past, but also became a unique opportunity to gather water loss data using a new water audit format developed by the International Water Association and AWWA. Using this structure resulted in the gathering of an initial baseline of water loss data, as well as serving as the introduction of this format to several hundred water utilities. The survey presents some interesting findings for water industry stakeholders to consider. It also offers further evidence to motivate a greater focus on water accounting and loss control in drinking water utilities. Includes 5 references, tables, figures.