NORTHFIELD — The Northfield Water District was recently recognized by the state Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) for its efforts to maintain a clean water supply.

Northfield was one of 45 public water systems across the state to be recognized, and was listed alongside six other recipients in the Small Community Systems category for its “noteworthy performance” in previous years, according to MassDEP.

“We were quite surprised,” Northfield Water District Compliance Officer Steve Malsch said.

To be a recipient of a 2024 Public Water System Award, the water system must demonstrate “excellent water service to the public” and have “no violations or compliance issues,” according to MassDEP. Malsch said water testing had a lot to do with meeting those requirements.

“Testing is something that [MassDEP] sets the parameters on,” Malsch said. “They just make sure that’s all in compliance.”

MassDEP has recognized and awarded water systems across the state for 38 years.

“Clean and sufficient drinking water doesn’t happen by accident. It’s because of the hard work of people like those being recognized,” MassDEP Commissioner Bonnie Heiple said in a statement. “I’m honored to publicly commend these water systems and operators for their exceptional service and distinguished work protecting the health of their communities.”

Malsch, who’s been a part of the water commission in Northfield for 27 years, said this is the first time the Northfield Water District has received this award and he was “pleased” to hear the news.

“It’s about having all of your ducks in a row,” he said. “I think it’s representative of the districts in this area, we’re drinking the same water. ... It’s important for us that everything is in compliance and all of the testing is done. I think that’s why we take this little extra care in a timely, professional way.”