The Oak Creek Water Utility’s commercially bottled, purified water again received international distinction by winning a gold medal at the largest water tasting competition in the world. The 16th Annual Berkeley Springs International Water Tasting Contest marks a return to glory for the municipal bottled water packaged under the name Claire Baie. The first gold medal came five years ago in what was then its first contest entry.

“We all take great pride in producing great tasting, clean water,” said Steve Yttri, Oak Creek Water Utility general manager. “Oak Creek water customers know the great taste of our water every day, but now so does the rest of the world.”

Claire Baie defeated silver medalist Clear Springs Natural, Vanleer, Tenn., and bronze medalist Water Boyz, Santa Fe, N.M. More than 70 waters representing a dozen countries and 22 U.S. states competed for medals in four categories in Berkley Springs, W. Va., February 25.

Claire Baie, translated from its French language origin, means “clear creek.” The Oak Creek Water Utility has received six Director’s Awards for water quality from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as part of its Partnership for Safe Water. It is the only Wisconsin utility to attain Phase III status from the EPA.

The Partnership for Safe Water is a cooperative effort of six organizations including the EPA and American Water Works Association. Partnership representatives audit a utility’s processing capabilities, management and operations. Audit results then are compared to extremely strict standards from which an assessment is prepared and criteria developed for the utility to maintain prior to receiving Phase III status.

“Claire Baie now holds the distinction of receiving awards for water quality, and now two international gold medals for water taste,” Yttri said. “The investments we make in providing the cleanest, safest drinking water possible clearly impacts taste and quality.