(Lawrenceville, Ga., May 1, 2015) – The Gwinnett County Department of Water Resources will host several free weekend events in observance of National Drinking Water Week, May 3 – 9, and Water Professionals Appreciation Day on May 5. This is an opportunity for Gwinnett residents and business owners to learn how water professionals keep water flowing, wastewater treated and streams clean.

Gwinnett Clean & Beautiful, in partnership with the Department of Water Resources and the Gwinnett Environmental and Heritage Center, will launch Great Gwinnett Wetlands on Saturday, May 2 at 9 a.m. at the Bromolow Creek and Wetlands in Duluth. This is a new pilot program to enhance streams and wetlands as well as collect data on their health. Volunteers will learn about the wetlands that funnel into streams, rivers and lakes while performing beautification and restoration projects. Volunteers can get more details and are encouraged to sign up at http://www.gwinnettcb.org/event/great-gwinnett-wetlands/. 

Residents are also invited to learn about the waste water treatment and water production processes at two upcoming open houses.

The Yellow River Water Reclamation Facility will be open Saturday, May 2 for residents to see the County’s advanced wastewater treatment process in action and discover how microorganisms work to return water to the environment in nearly pristine condition. Tours will take place at 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. and last approximately 1.5 hours. Capacity is limited, so attendees are encouraged to arrive early to ensure admission. The Yellow River Water Reclamation Facility is located at 858 Tom Smith Road SW in Lilburn. For more information, please call (678) 376-6722 or email DWRconserve@gwinnettcounty.com.

Shoal Creek Filter Plant’s annual open house will be held Saturday, May 9 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. This free event will include tours of the facility, free refreshments and kids’ activities. For more information, call (678) 376-4200.

Water Resources Director Ron Seibenhener said, “The production of clean drinking water, the treatment of wastewater and the protection of our streams and watersheds are increasingly complicated endeavors. It’s the staff at the Department of Water Resources who occupy the front lines to ensure we manage this renewable, but limited, resource. I am pleased we can recognize the hard work of our County water professionals through the observance of National Drinking Water Week and Water Professionals Appreciation Day.”