BALTIMORE, MD (May 7, 2013) - Maryland Department of the Environment Secretary Robert M. Summers is encouraging Marylanders to help protect the precious water resources that provide safe and adequate drinking water. Drinking water is vital to our public health and to the economy in Maryland. Maryland is building on its successes in fulfilling the public health goals of the Safe Drinking Water Act and, to mark Drinking Water Week, is renewing its commitment to provide safe and adequate drinking water for all Marylanders. This national observance, established by the American Water Works Association (AWWA), highlights the value and role of water in our daily lives. Governor Martin O'Malley has proclaimed May 5-11, 2013, Drinking Water Week in Maryland.​