Durham Region has declared Oct. 12 as Imagine a Day Without Water, part of a campaign to recognize the true value of water.

The nationwide campaign, organized The Value of Water Coalition, is intended to educate about the challenges of failing infrastructure as well as advocate for innovative solutions to these challenges, being implemented in communities nationwide.

According to a release from the Region, the area infrastructure, relied on to bring clean water to homes and businesses, is showing its age. The wastewater systems face multifaceted challenges such as flooding, infrastructure failure, age and climate change.

“The purpose of the campaign is to raise awareness about the crucial need for investment in water infrastructure systems,” said John Presta, Director of Environmental Services.

“There are challenges affecting our aging water infrastructure, which require investment and planning. Continued investment in our drinking water and wastewater systems is essential to secure a reliable and safe resource for generations to come.”

This is the Value of Water Coalition’s third annual Imagine a Day Without Water. The Coalition is co-ordinated by the US Water Alliance, a national non-profit dedicated to securing a sustainable water future for all. For more information about the Imagine a Day Without Water campaign, visit imagineadaywithoutwater.org.

For more information on Durham Region’s water systems, visit durham.ca/watervalue.