NAVIGATING WATER ISSUES
Protecting Our Nation’s Drinking Water
The Challenge
State and local governments need science-based risk analysis to inform all decisions connected to the provision of safe drinking water. Each year, billions of dollars are spent to maintain and upgrade U.S. drinking water systems. Summit was called to address the lack of expertise, informing policy discussion about clean drinking water standards. Communities need context, background, data, and scientific research to help ensure drinking water utilities and public health professionals navigate complex issues and assure protection of our nation’s drinking water supply.
The Solution
The Water & Health Advisory Council was created by Summit Strategy Group as an independent, multidisciplinary group of professionals that care deeply about water quality, the environment and public health. Policymaking and government funding for drinking water must prioritize public health benefit for the greatest number of people. The notoriety of the councilmembers highlights their broad range of expertise with backgrounds in water treatment, epidemiology, toxicology, public health, and risk analysis. https://wateradvisory.org/ - The client’s funding originated from 501c3 foundations and organizations interested in water including seed funding from the Foundation for Chemistry Research and Initiatives.
The Results
The Council remains active and engaged in advancing critical policy discussions today. We continue to analyze emerging scientific research on water quality and public health, leveraging the extensive expertise of Advisory Board members, each of whom Summit identified and strategically engaged. Our team regularly prepares clear, accessible summaries enabling officials to effectively inform their communities about potential health risks and practical solutions related to drinking water. Summit maintains ongoing communication through a dedicated newsletter and regular email updates to an expanding network of water professionals. Additionally, Councilmembers frequently conduct training workshops and seminars requested by federal, state, and local officials. We consistently facilitate meaningful connections with major water associations nationwide, fostering collaborative partnerships. Summit continues to lead impactful media relations efforts, including press releases and multimedia content, to underscore the importance of sound drinking water policies across the water community.
Safe Drinking Water Act 50th Anniversary
Water & Health Advisory Website
Celebrating 50 Years of Safe Drinking Water with Rob Renner
Educating Californians on water conservation during a time of Drought.
The Challenge
California’s increasingly warmer and drier climate was projected to reduce the state’s water supply by up to 10% by 2040. Summit was one of a team of five agencies tasked with helping Save Our Water educate Californians about the permanent nature of this water scarcity and instill water conservation as a daily practice. Complicating the matter, due to the diverse nature of California’s region-specific climates and cultures, residents varied significantly in their understanding and acceptance of the state's water reality.
The Solution
Summit created a data-driven, culturally resonant owned communications ecosystem, focusing on Californians’ shared appreciation for water and their collective responsibility to conserve it. The campaign featured storytelling content that influenced attitudes, practical demonstrations of water-saving behaviors in diverse communities, and educational tips on water conservation. Summit coordinated closely with partner communication agencies, state government agencies, and Public Water Authorities to ensure unified messaging from state to local levels. Partnerships with community-based organizations helped reach underserved audiences in 15 languages, adapting messages to resonate deeply with varied demographic groups. Influencer collaborations leveraged the authentic voices of Macro, Micro, and Nano creators, enabling Save Our Water to connect effectively with diverse audiences across California.
Channel Solutions Included
Robust organic digital and social media initiatives.
Strategic collaborations with community-based organizations to disseminate messaging broadly and effectively.
Influencer engagements that amplified key messages authentically and organically across multiple demographics.
Multilingual editorial content providing educational insights into water conservation.
In-language interviews with subject-matter experts broadcast during local news segments, expanding reach and credibility.
Social Media interviews with subject-matter experts to use exclusively on owned social media channels.
The Results
Delivered more than 97 million impressions across organic social channels.
Increased total organic social engagement by 80% and audience growth by 39%.
Achieved 410 million earned media impressions statewide.
Generated over 100 million influencer impressions across 15 languages.
Research indicated nearly 90% audience agreement with core water conservation principles.
Homeowners exposed to the campaign showed notably higher willingness for yard transformations than those unaware of campaign messaging.
Educating San Jose Residents about Hard Water
The Challenge
San Jose Water customers frequently experience issues due to the region’s naturally occurring hard water, characterized by high mineral content, especially calcium and magnesium. While hard water does not pose health risks, it creates significant aesthetic inconveniences, such as scaling on plumbing fixtures, spots on dishes, and reduced efficiency of appliances. These everyday frustrations have resulted in negative perceptions about water quality, despite the water meeting all safety standards. San Jose Water sought expertise to address misconceptions, educate the community, and improve customer sentiment regarding their hard water.
The Solution
Summit Strategy Group launched an integrated influencer campaign titled "Understanding Hard Water." This initiative leveraged local trusted messengers to deliver compelling educational content and actionable advice. Six San Jose-based influencers produced relatable, informative content showcasing the natural geological origins of hard water, its hidden health and lifestyle benefits, and practical household management tips. Summit also coordinated video content production featuring Dr. Suzanne DeLorenzo, Director of Water Quality at San Jose Water, who provided expert insights, addressed misconceptions, and shared easy-to-follow maintenance solutions. Content was strategically boosted across Instagram to maximize reach and engagement with San Jose Water’s core audience.
The Results
Summit's strategic approach significantly enhanced San Jose Water's customer relationship, underscoring the importance and effectiveness of informed, localized, and actionable public education campaigns. In 30-days, the campaign effectively reshaped customer perception and increased community engagement:
Six influencers created 12 Instagram posts (one reel and one story) reaching over 309,000+ users.
Influencer content garnered 58,500+ engagements, demonstrating strong community interest and interaction.
The videos achieved high viewership, totaling over 462,000+ views and more than 469,000+ impressions.
Educational content featuring practical home maintenance tips resonated highly, with nearly 29% audience engagement.
The campaign successfully targeted key demographics, particularly individuals aged 25-44 in the San Jose area, aligning effectively with core customer segments.
Positive community feedback highlighted the campaign's effectiveness in clarifying hard water misconceptions and providing valuable, practical solutions.
