Two area cities have been announced as recipients of Water Fluoridation Quality Awards from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Kalona and Wapello are two of 50 Iowa communities receiving the award for water fluoridation quality. According to the Iowa Department of Public Health fluoridation is the adjustment of fluoride in drinking water to a level effective for preventing tooth decay. This award recognizes the towns that achieved excellence in community water fluoridation by maintaining a consistent level of fluoride in drinking water through 2016. According to CDC, drinking fluoridated water keeps teeth strong and reduces cavities by about 25% in children and adults. Community water fluoridation has been shown to save money for families and for the U.S. healthcare system.