Virginia American Water Awards Environmental Grants to Friends of the Lower Appomattox River and Friends of the Occoquan

Virginia American Water today announced that two nonprofit environmental organizations have each received $3,000 through the company’s Environmental Grant Program to advance protection of water resources.

Petersburg-based Friends of the Lower Appomattox River, which works to protect the Appomattox River and promote its natural beauty and history, will use its grant to install informational and interpretive signage at significant points along the river. The signage will increase awareness of the river’s amenities and encourage protection of its resources.

The Friends of the Occoquan, which is based in Woodbridge and works to preserve and maintain the Occoquan Watershed, will use its grant to organize biannual river cleanups and for educational materials for civic organizations, youth groups and schools.

“We are committed to protecting the environment in the communities we serve and proud to support the efforts of local organizations that share our vision,” said Virginia American Water President William R. Walsh. “We established the Environmental Grant Program to offer assistance to our community partners, while leveraging local resources and capabilities to make a positive impact on the environment.”

Established in 2005, American Water’s Environmental Grant Program offers funds for innovative, community-based environmental projects that improve, restore or protect the watersheds, surface water and/or groundwater supplies in the local communities the company serves.

Virginia American Water, a wholly owned subsidiary of American Water (NYSE: AWK), is the largest investor-owned water utility in the state, providing high-quality and reliable water services to more than 300,000 people. Founded in 1886, American Water is the largest publicly traded U.S. water and wastewater utility company. With headquarters in Voorhees, N.J., the company employs more than approximately 7,000 dedicated professionals who provide drinking water, wastewater and other related services to an estimated 15 million people in more than 30 states and parts of Canada. More information can be found by visiting www.amwater.com.