And the winner … the city of Prairie du Sac in southern Wisconsin for having the best tasting water in rural America. Earlier this week, at the National Rural Water Association’s Water Rally, Prairie du Sac won the coveted gold medal as part of the Great American Water Taste Test.
USDA Rural Utilities Service Acting Administrator John Padalino served on the judging panel. Padalino administers USDA water and environmental programs.
“This event is a reminder of how essential rural water infrastructure is to every community in America,” Padalino said. “A strong rural water network leads to a strong rural America. A strong rural America leads to a stronger America, where food, energy, goods and services are plentiful. Congratulations to the hard-working water utility operators and the community of Prairie du Sac in Wisconsin.”
A panel of judges selected the finalists from entries across the United States. Each sample was judged on clarity, bouquet and taste.
The City of Emporia, Kan. won second place, and Village of Psagh, Iowa, placed third. Other finalists included the Village of Roscommon, Mich., and the Village of Trenton, Neb.
Click here to listen to USDA Radio’s interview of the taste testing.