Town Administrator Tom Mayo and Managing Director/Superintendent Russell Tierney are pleased to share that the Weir River Water System (WRWS) has been recognized in two categories by the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection's (MassDEP) Drinking Water Program.
The Weir River Water System, located in Hingham, was recognized by the MassDEP for achieving one of the top scores in the Medium and Large Community System Category of the 2023 Public Water Systems Awards Program. The Town of Hingham purchased the Weir River Water System from a private entity in 2020 and subsequently invested more than $2 million in repairs and maintenance in the first year of its ownership.
According to MassDEP, the criteria used to select eligible public water systems for this award include excellent water service to the public, no violations or non-compliance issues, and efforts that support public water supply services, such as source water protection, water quality, and conservation.
Darren Dearth, the WRWS's primary treatment operator, was named Operator of the Year for his outstanding performance managing operations and ongoing PFAS treatment, and for his conscientious and deeply personal commitment to his profession.
Members of the WRWS attended an awards ceremony at the Massachusetts State House on Thursday, May 11, or Drinking Water Day, to receive the awards.
"These awards are well deserved. They speak to the successful transition, smooth operations, and effective leadership of the Weir River Water System," said Town Administrator Mayo. "Congratulations to Russell Tierney, Darren Dearth, and the whole team at WRWS for this recognition."
Since its acquisition, WRWS has made tremendous progress in providing safe drinking water to the residents and businesses of Hingham and the surrounding communities of Hull and northern Cohasset.
From left, Russell Tierney, Managing Director and Superintendent of WRWS, Bonnie Heiple, Commissioner MassDEP, and Representative Joan Meschino at the award ceremony. (Photo Courtesy Town of Hingham)
Darren Dearth, Operations Manager at WRWS, VEOLIA, Bonnie Heiple, Commissioner MassDEP, and Representative Joan Meschino at the awards ceremony. (Photo Courtesy Town of Hingham)