Plainview Water District Encourages Students to Make Eco-Friendly Choices in 2025-26

As the 2025-2026 school year begins, the Plainview Water District (PWD) encourages students and families to consider reusable water bottles as part of their back-to-school preparations. This small change not only reduces reliance on single-use plastics but also supports broader efforts to manage and conserve water resources within the Plainview-Old Bethpage community.

“Every time a student refills a reusable water bottle instead of using a disposable one, they’re taking an important step in conserving our sole-source aquifer,” said PWD Commissioner Marc Laykind. “Simple choices like this help limit water waste and teach students the value of protecting a resource that our entire community depends on. Each refill helps build a culture of sustainability within Plainview-Old Bethpage.”

Students attending schools in the Plainview-Old Bethpage School District can take advantage of water refill stations placed throughout campuses, including hallways, gyms and cafeterias. These stations are designed for reusable bottles, making it simple for students to stay hydrated throughout the day.

“By using a refillable water bottle during the school day and at extracurricular activities, students can easily access high-quality water from the Plainview Water District,” said PWD Commissioner Andrew Bader. “This is the same water that comes from residents’ taps, which is a cost-effective alternative to bottled water and supports environmental responsibility.”

Choosing tap water or school refill stations over single-use bottled water is a smart choice for both students and the community. Plainview Water District water is carefully monitored and regulated by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), which enforces strict water quality standards, and the District must regularly test and report results to local and state agencies. Bottled water, on the other hand, is regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which has far less oversight and does not require the same frequent testing or public reporting.

Tap water also contains essential minerals, like calcium and magnesium, that are often removed during bottled water processing. By using refillable bottles and accessing school hydration stations, students can stay hydrated, reduce unnecessary plastic waste, save money and take an active role in conserving the community’s water resources.

“These reusable bottles empower students to be part of a larger effort in their community,” said PWD Commissioner Michael Chad. “They make it easier to stay hydrated, encourage consistent water intake and reduce dependence on single-use plastics. Many bottles hold more than standard 16-ounce options, supporting longer-lasting hydration throughout the day.”

In addition to using a refillable bottle, students can take other steps to reduce water usage and contribute to community-wide water conservation this school year:

• Turn off taps when not in use: Whether brushing teeth or washing hands, brief pauses can save gallons of water daily.
• Report leaks: Noticing a dripping faucet or broken sprinkler in school or at home? Alert the appropriate staff or family members.
• Participate in school or community water initiatives: Many local programs encourage students to plant drought-resistant greenery, maintain school gardens, or take part in water-awareness projects.
• Use water wisely during extracurricular activities: Encourage teammates and friends to refill bottles instead of buying single-use beverages.

For further information, or if you have any questions, please call the District at 516-931-6469, email info@plainviewwater.org or visit www.plainviewwater.org. Residents can also sign up to receive information by submitting their email address through the District’s homepage or following them on Facebook in order to stay up-to-date with District activities and initiatives.

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