ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — On Thursday, October 16, the Albuquerque Bernalillo County Water Utility Authority is inviting the community to take part in “Imagine a Day Without Water,” a national awareness campaign highlighting the essential role water plays in daily life, public health, and the economy.
To help spread the message, the Water Authority is partnering with three local coffee shops:
- Burning Daylight Coffee Company (800 3rd Street NW)
- Michael Thomas Coffee Roasters Café (202 Bryn Mawr Drive SE)
- Abq Coffee (1321 Eubank NE)
Each location will display campaign posters and engage customers in conversations about water’s importance.
“Water infrastructure is largely hidden from public view, buried beneath the ground,” said Klarissa J. Peña, Chair of the Water Authority Board. “Events like Imagine a Day Without Water help publicize the need for continued investment in the pipelines and equipment that keep our drinking water flowing.”
A recent U.S. Water Alliance study found overwhelming public support for water investment:
- 96% said it’s critical for public health
- 95% for community well-being
- 85% for a strong economy
Globally, the World Health Organization reports that 1 in 4 people still lack access to safely managed drinking water.
Locally, Albuquerque relies on surface and groundwater to produce clean drinking water. The Water Authority treats and delivers about 29 billion gallons annually, returning 16.9 billion gallons to the Rio Grande to help sustain the river.
Since 2004, conservation efforts have cut average daily water use in half—from 250 gallons per person in 2002 to 125 gallons today. The Water Authority is also updating its Water 2130 long-term plan to address drought and climate change.
For more information, visit abcwua.org or stop by one of the participating coffee shops on October 16.
