May 27, 2003

Contact: Charles G. Sturcken (718) 595-6600

New York City Department Of Environmental Protection Mounts Educational Water Supply Information In City Subways And Buses

DEP Commissioner Christopher O. Ward announced today that from May through the end of September an informative, historical series of photographs about the City’s water supply system will be on view for riders of City subways and buses.

“This group of photographs from DEP archives is meant to interest and excite New Yorkers about the complex water supply system that is so vital to our day-to-day life, said Commissioner Ward. “We also want to increase New Yorker’s awareness about the seeming mystery of how their water actually gets to them. At the same time, we are also posting a new feature on our website that will complement the photographs and provide additional data and facts about the system’s history as well as information about our modern day water supply,” continued Commissioner Ward.

The exhibit consists of eight historic images. Each photograph will be identified as to its source, year, and location, and is intended to draw viewers interest to DEP’s website. The individual photographs, also mounted on the web, will provide supplemental information and also direct viewers to other DEP sites that contain information about the system’s history, water supply and quality, water conservation, and the protection of watersheds.

Commencing with the opening of the 2003-2004 school year, a companion educational package will be distributed to teachers and science coordinators throughout the City. Additionally, 2003 is the United Nations International Year of Fresh Water. Many local and international organizations and concerned individuals will be supporting the health of the clean water environment through various activities.

“We hope that New Yorkers will enjoy the photos, but we also encourage them to contact us if they have additional questions or for further information about the City’s water supply. Our web site address is www.nyc.gov/dep and our public information phone number is (718) 595-6600,” said the Commissioner.