For the sixth year, Missouri American Water is inviting Missouri high school students to submit their research papers on water quality and watershed protection topics to the Junior Science Engineering and Humanities Symposium (JSEHS). Missouri American Water's High School Water Quality Research Award is open to all Missouri high school students.

The top paper, as judged by Missouri American's Water staff, will be recognized with a plaque, a $500 award for the student and a $500 award for the sponsoring teacher at the University's JSEHS event on March 15-17, 2012. Students may also apply for a grant, up to $100, to fund materials and supplies needed to conduct their research.

"Past award winners have examined important water quality challenges for our state," said Tom Simmons, Water Quality Manager for Missouri American Water. "Their work holds real promise for the future of Missouri's water resources."

Students should prepare and submit their research papers according to the JSEHS guidelines and schedule. The JSEHS information is available on the University of Missouri, St. Louis website at www.umsl.edu/~sep/programs/jsehs.html.

Missouri American Water

Missouri American Water, a wholly owned subsidiary of American Water (NYSE: AWK), is the largest water utility in the state, providing high-quality and reliable water and/or wastewater services to approximately 1.5 million people.

Founded in 1886, American Water is the largest publicly traded U.S. water and wastewater utility company. With headquarters in Voorhees, N.J., the company employs more than 7,000 dedicated professionals who provide drinking water, wastewater and other related services to approximately 15 million people in more than 30 states, as well as parts of Canada. More information can be found by visiting www.amwater.com.

Missouri American Water
Ann Dettmer, 314-996-2356
Communications Manager
C - 314-623-3822
Ann.Dettmer@amwater.com