CONTACTS:
Jody Ladd Craig, Public Affairs Director, jcraig@marc.org, 816/701-8241or 913/449-5127
Ginerva Moore, Watershed Program Manager, gmoore@marc.org, 816/701-8252

“Liquid Assets” examines water infrastructure challenges and solutions on KCPT November 13

 

Panel forum on Kansas City region’s water management challenges to follow documentary airing on KCPT


On November 13, Kansas City Public Television (KCPT) will present “Liquid Assets: The Story of Our Water Infrastructure,” a documentary about our nation’s water infrastructure and stormwater management. Largely out of sight and out of mind, these aging systems have not been maintained, and some estimates suggest they are the single largest public works endeavor in our nation’s history.

 

"Liquid Assets" tells the story of essential infrastructure systems: drinking water, wastewater, and stormwater. These complex systems — some in the ground for more than 100 years — are critical for basic sanitation, public safety, economic development, and a host of other necessities of life. The documentary highlights communities across the United States, providing an understanding of hidden water infrastructure assets, demonstrating watershed protection approaches, and illustrating 21st century solutions.

 

Kansas City faces a substantial overhaul of water and sewer infrastructure. City officials, planners, community groups and environmental advocates are working together to address the needs of both the city and the region in upgrading water systems in ways that are safe, environmentally friendly and cost effective.  

 

The documentary is scheduled to air on KCPT at 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, November 13. Immediately following this broadcast at 9:00 p.m., the station will air SEWERS: Kansas City's $4 Billion Headache,” a live panel discussion among local leaders, planners, and water quality experts. The group will explore how many of the practices and innovations showcased in “Liquid Assets” could help Kansas City and surrounding communities address regional water and wastewater issues. Panel members include:

Members of the public are encouraged to join the conversation by phoning in with questions or comments during the program.

 

Produced by Penn State Public Broadcasting (WPSU-TV) in partnership with the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE), the documentary aims to increase public awareness of water issues. It hopes to bring attention to our reliance on antiquated wastewater processing infrastructure and the need to ensure safe drinking water and healthy watersheds. For more information about “Liquid Assets,” visit www.liquidassets.psu.edu. For local KCPT listings, visit www.kcpt.org/schedules.  

 

# # #