The City of Manassas Public Works and Utilities department received the 2012 Excellence in Water Treatment Plant Performance award by the Virginia Department of Health Office of Drinking Water. The awards were recently presented in Roanoke, Va. For more information, go to www.manassascity.org or call 703-257-8219.

“The City of Manassas is dedicated to maintain quality water for our citizens, we’re honored to be recognized for our water treatment performance,” said Mike Moon, director of City of Manassas public works and utilities department.

Three levels of effectiveness and performance are awarded, including gold, silver and bronze. Manassas earned the silver designation for excellence.

The City of Manassas Department of Public Works and Utilities recently welcomed Derek Howard as their new compliance officer. A 20-year veteran chemist and environmental specialist from Florida, Howard is responsible for ensuring safe drinking water in Manassas City and working with the City of Manassas Treatment plant operators, the Virginia Department of Health and the Department of Environmental Quality. The Manassas Public Works/Utilities Department just released the 2012 Water Quality Report, available in digital format on their website. For information about Manassas City Water Quality, go to www.manassascity.org/waterqualityreport.

Is Sourwood, Red Maple or Green Ash under your Christmas tree this year? City of Manassas Utilities and Public Works has a gift idea that keeps on giving for years to come----trees. More than 40 tree species have been selected as part of the national Tree Power Program to help beautify the Manassas community, increase home value and improve air quality. Ten dollars will be credited to customers’ utility accounts for each tree that is planted and approved by the Manassas City Horticulturist. For details, go to www.manassascity.org or call 703-257-8276.

The National Tree Power Program is part of a nationwide public power program to help improve the environment and reduce energy costs. Trees help improve air quality, provide shade in the summer and help break the wind in winter. The program is offered all year. Customers can pick up a Tree Power brochure with a validation card attached and a full list of approved trees.