Smithfield Wins Statewide Honors For Water And Wastewater Excellence

SMITHFIELD – The Town of Smithfield has been recognized with two top statewide honors from NC One Water, earning the titles of 2025 Water Distribution System of the Year (Small System Winner) and 2025 Wastewater Collections System of the Year (Overall Winner). The awards were announced during the Town Council meeting on November 18.

The recognitions highlight Smithfield’s strong commitment to protecting public health, safeguarding the environment, and maintaining high-quality infrastructure through proactive management of its water distribution and wastewater collection systems.

Water Distribution System of the Year – Small System Winner

The Water Distribution System of the Year Award honors municipalities that exceed minimum standards to ensure the reliable delivery of safe drinking water. Systems are evaluated on operational efficiency, maintenance practices, staff professionalism, and innovative use of equipment and resources.

Only three systems statewide received the award in 2025. This marks Smithfield’s eighth win in the past nine years.

The award recognizes the Town’s water system personnel, whose professionalism and diligence help ensure safe, reliable service for residents and businesses.

Wastewater Collections System of the Year – Overall Winner

The Wastewater Collections System of the Year Award honors municipalities that excel in managing their wastewater systems beyond the requirements of state permits, with a focus on protecting public health and the environment.

NC One Water evaluates systems each year by size—small, medium, and large. For the eighth time in nine years, Smithfield earned the top ranking in its category. This year, the Town also received the prestigious “Overall Winner” designation, achieving the highest score among all systems statewide.

The award highlights the work of the Town’s wastewater collection staff, who play a critical role in preventing sanitary sewer overflows, protecting property, and maintaining environmental quality through efficient and innovative system management.