Water, water is everywhere. Making it safe to drink requires the work of experts.

That's why water and sewer authorities are so important. They provide clean water to homes and businesses and drain away wastewater for treatment, services most Americans just take for granted.

They're also valuable.

The Bucks County Water and Sewer Authority, which provides service to 100,000 households in Bucks and neighboring counties, is one of the largest in the state, and recently was valued at more than $1 billion: $1.1 billion for the sewer system, and $300 million for its water system, said John Cordisco, BCWSA board chairman.