Skagit PUD's Judy Reservoir water system has captured first place in the American Water Works Association (AWWA) Northwest Subsection's Best Tasting Water competition, decisively outpacing competitors from across the region.

The competition, held March 19 at Shawn O'Donnell's at the Farmhouse, saw Skagit PUD finish well ahead of the field. The city of Anacortes placed second, followed by Everett in third and Bellingham in fourth.

Judges evaluated each water sample based on three critical criteria: odor, taste, and after-taste. All samples were presented at room temperature — a standard practice that allows judges to detect subtle dissolved gases, odors, and flavor profiles that might otherwise go unnoticed in chilled water.

The Judy Reservoir system serves as the primary water source for Burlington, Mount Vernon, and Sedro-Woolley communities, consistently delivering exceptional water quality to 116,000 people daily.

With this regional victory, Skagit PUD advances to the PNWS-AWWA 2026 Section Conference in Tacoma, scheduled for May 6-8. The Northwest's largest conference and trade show for drinking water professionals will host the sectional competition, where Skagit PUD will compete against top water systems from Washington, Oregon, and Idaho. A win in Tacoma would send Skagit PUD to the AWWA Annual Conference & Expo in Washington, D.C., June 21-24, where expert judges will determine the best-tasting water in the country.

This recognition underscores Skagit PUD's ongoing commitment to delivering exceptional water quality throughout Skagit County.