Groton — The state Department of Public Health honored Groton Utilities' certified water treatment plant operations staff with the 2019 Certified Operator Public Health Drinking Water Merit Award in recognition of their work at the Groton Utilities Poquonnock Treatment Plant. The award is given during National Drinking Water Week.

"The CT DPH recognizes their contributions and proficiency in water system operations and controls," Department of Public Health Commissioner Raul Pino wrote in a letter to Ronald Gaudet, director of utilities for Groton Utilities. "Special recognition is given to the leadership of Rick Stevens, who has created a culture of teamwork, excellence and redundancy within the operations staff."

In addition to excellent daily operations and maintenance, Pino said the team "exemplified exceptional work practices" in preparing for large-scale upgrades to the water treatment plant, calling the project "truly a team effort."

The letter also noted Groton Utilities' training programs and efforts to educate the community and school groups about drinking water.