Sanford Water District Wins “New England’s Best” Drinking Water Taste Test

Press Release

To:       For Immediate Release

From:   David Parent, Superintendent

Date:   September 26, 2025

RE:      Sanford Water District Wins “New England’s Best” Drinking Water Taste Test

The Sanford Water District is proud to announce that it has been awarded the coveted New England’s Best title in the New England Water Works Association (NEWWA) Drinking Water Taste Test held this week.

Sanford took home both top honors—the Judge’s Award and the People’s Choice Award—making history as the first entrant to win both titles. Sanford’s water was judged against entries from 10 other communities across six New England states.

This was Sanford’s first year in the contest, and staff have already committed to returning next year to defend the title.

Sanford’s drinking water comes from aquifers in the Glacial Outwash Plain of southern Maine, which provide cold, clear, naturally high-quality water.

Pictured left to right: District Engineer Keith Levasseur, Business Manager Judy McKula, NEWWA President Demetri Vidalis, Water Quality Manager Nick Tumolo, and Trustee and Board President Melissa Alipalo.

Both trophies—the Judge’s “Water Cup” and the People’s Choice Award—will be proudly displayed in the District office lobby on River Street for the next 12 months. Customers are invited to stop by and view them.

“This recognition is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our staff,” said District Superintendent David Parent. “We take great pride in delivering safe, reliable, and high-quality drinking water to the Sanford community.”