2026 Tap Water Taste Test

Think you offer the best tasting water in Iowa?

Find out at the Iowa Section Best of the Best Taste Test.

PLEASE NOTE: Utilities will compete for TWO titles: “People’s Choice” and “Best Tasting Water in Iowa."

Here's how to compete:

1. Register Your Utility

Entries will be limited to the first 12 received.

To be eligible, your utility must not have incurred any state or federal drinking water violations (MCL, MAC, monitoring, recordkeeping, etc.) during the previous calendar year.

2. Prepare & Deliver Your Water Sample

• Provide two gallons of water from your local municipal water distribution system
• Use a sealed glass container, plastic may impart taste and odor
• DO NOT CHILL your sample – water MUST be at room temperature
• Label container clearly with the name of your utility
• Deliver your container to the IA-AWWA Annual Conference registration table by 7:30 am on Thursday, October 22

3. Participate in the Taste Test

The Taste Tests will take place at the IA-AWWA Annual Conference throughout the day on Thursday, October 22, 2026. The “Best Tasting Water in Iowa” award is determined by panel of esteemed judges who rate each water sample on its appearance, smell, taste, and aftertaste. The winner of the “People’s Choice” award is determined by conference attendees.

Winners will be announced at the Section Celebration that evening. Only the name of the overall winner for each award will be announced. 

The winning teams will each take home bragging rights and a trophy, and the “Best Tasting Water in Iowa” award winner earns the opportunity to compete against other Section Champions at AWWA’s Annual Conference & Exposition.

TEAM INFORMATION

CONTACT PERSON

FEELING CONFIDENT?

Provide the name of any local news outlets that should hear about your victory.