DIPRA Honors North Berwick Water District for Century of Service

The Ductile Iron Pipe Research Association (DIPRA) has officially welcomed the North Berwick Water District in Maine into its prestigious Century Club. This honor is bestowed upon those water utilities that have demonstrated the durability and reliability of cast iron pipes over generations.

DIPRA’s Century Club celebrates the legacy of cast iron piping, which has been essential in delivering safe and clean drinking water to communities. It represents a significant achievement for the North Berwick Water District, which has successfully maintained its cast iron infrastructure for over 100 years.

Celebrating a Legacy of Reliability

The North Berwick section of cast iron pipe was laid down in 1896, marking the beginning of a strong partnership between the community and its water utilities. Recently, a notable 4-inch section of this pipe was recognized for its service, having conveyed safe drinking water for 126 years before being retired in 2022. This remarkable longevity highlights the exceptional quality of cast iron piping.

DIPRA President David Cole acknowledged the efforts of the North Berwick Water District, stating, "Cast iron pipes are the legendary frontrunners of all modern-day water pipe infrastructure. They were built to last, and the North Berwick Water District knows how well they have served the community for more than 100 years." This strong foundation has laid the groundwork for the continued use of ductile iron, which is recognized as the modern descendant of cast iron piping.

Importance of Ductile Iron

Ductile iron pipes, made from 90% recycled materials, offer a sustainable solution for today's water professionals. According to Cole, the environmental benefits of ductile iron further bolster its appeal, making it a trusted choice for communities looking to ensure safe water. He commended the water professionals in North Berwick for prioritizing materials that would safeguard their community for generations.

In reflection, North Berwick Water District Superintendent Michael Gaudette remarked, "It's comforting to know that some of our materials have been servicing the town of North Berwick for more than 110 years," underscoring the sense of pride and security that comes from knowing the reliability of their infrastructure.

The Honor of the Century Club

Established in 1947, The Century Club aims to publicly recognize water utilities that utilize cast iron mains to provide service for over a century. North Berwick joins over 550 other water utilities across the United States, and 35 in Canada, in this elite recognition. Additionally, DIPRA operates a Sesquicentennial Club, for those utilities which have maintained cast iron pipelines in service for 150 years or more.

As a leading organization since its founding in 1915, DIPRA serves not only as a resource and technical advisor to the water industry, but also as a representative on standards-making committees. With a common commitment among its member companies to provide the best quality water and wastewater pipe material in the world, DIPRA remains a pivotal force in the industry.

In conclusion, the recognition of the North Berwick Water District serves as a testament to the critical role that infrastructure plays in providing essential services to communities. It also reflects the ongoing dedication of water professionals to innovate while preserving the history and integrity of the systems that have long served their citizens.