LEXINGTON, Ky., Aug. 20, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Kentucky American Water's Kentucky River Station II regional water treatment plant in Owen County has earned special recognition from the Kentucky Energy and Environment Cabinet for outstanding operational performance and commitment to water quality.
The Kentucky River Station II plant at Hardin's Landing, which has been serving customers since 2010, achieved Area-Wide Optimization Program (AWOP) performance goals during the evaluation period, reflecting its commitment to delivering high-quality drinking water.
AWOP is a voluntary, multi-state initiative supported by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency that helps drinking water utilities enhance public health protection through optimized treatment practices. The program focuses on optimizing water system operations to reduce turbidity and disinfection byproducts beyond regulatory requirements. Turbidity is a measure of the particles suspended in water, such as soil, algae and other naturally occurring materials. Disinfection byproducts can form when disinfectants used in the treatment process react with naturally occurring organic matter in the water.
"This recognition reflects our team's dedication to delivering safe, high-quality drinking water to our customers every day," said Rob Buton, president of Kentucky American Water. "I'm proud of the Kentucky River Station II team for achieving this distinction and demonstrating our commitment to exceeding regulatory standards and protecting public health."
Kentucky American Water remains committed to investing in its treatment facilities, infrastructure and workforce to provide reliable water service and exceptional water quality for the communities it serves.
About American Water
American Water (NYSE: AWK) is the largest regulated water and wastewater utility company in the United States. With a history dating back to 1886 and celebrating 140 years in 2026, We Keep Life Flowing® by providing safe, clean, reliable and affordable drinking water and wastewater services to approximately 14 million people with regulated operations in 14 states and on 18 military installations. American Water's approximately 7,000 talented professionals leverage their significant expertise and the company's national size and scale to achieve excellent outcomes for the benefit of customers, employees, investors and other stakeholders.
For more information, visit amwater.com and join American Water on LinkedIn, Facebook, X and Instagram.
About Kentucky American Water
Kentucky American Water, a subsidiary of American Water with approximately 150 dedicated employees, provides safe, clean, reliable and affordable water and wastewater services to approximately 550,000 people.
For more information, visit Kentucky American Water's website and join Kentucky American Water on Facebook, X and Instagram.
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SOURCE American Water
FAQ
What recognition did Kentucky American Water (AWK) receive for its Owen County water plant?
Kentucky American Water’s Kentucky River Station II plant received special recognition from the Kentucky Energy and Environment Cabinet for outstanding operational performance and water quality. According to Kentucky American Water, this reflects its success in meeting Area-Wide Optimization Program (AWOP) goals.
Why was the Kentucky River Station II plant recognized in August 2026?
The Kentucky River Station II plant was recognized for achieving Area-Wide Optimization Program (AWOP) performance goals during the evaluation period. According to Kentucky American Water, this demonstrates its commitment to delivering high-quality drinking water beyond minimum regulatory standards.
What is the Area-Wide Optimization Program (AWOP) mentioned by Kentucky American Water (AWK)?
AWOP is a voluntary, multi-state initiative supported by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to help drinking water utilities optimize treatment. According to Kentucky American Water, the program focuses on reducing turbidity and disinfection byproducts beyond regulatory requirements to enhance public health protection.
How long has the Kentucky River Station II water treatment plant been serving Kentucky American Water customers?
The Kentucky River Station II regional water treatment plant has been serving customers since 2010. According to Kentucky American Water, the plant’s recent recognition highlights more than a decade of operation focused on safe, high-quality drinking water for the communities it serves.
What does the AWOP recognition mean for Kentucky American Water (AWK) customers in Owen County?
The AWOP recognition indicates that the Kentucky River Station II plant operates at performance levels that exceed basic regulatory requirements. According to Kentucky American Water, this supports safer, higher-quality drinking water and reflects ongoing investment in treatment processes and infrastructure.
How does Kentucky American Water plan to maintain water quality after the AWOP recognition?
Kentucky American Water states it remains committed to investing in treatment facilities, infrastructure and workforce. According to the company, these continued investments aim to provide reliable water service and exceptional water quality for the communities served by the Kentucky River Station II plant.
