SIOUX CITY -- The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Department of Human Services have awarded the city of Sioux City's Water Treatment Plant the 2008 Water Fluoridation Quality Ward.

The award commended city staff for its consistent and professional adjustment of water fluoride to optimum levels for oral health, Ricky Mach, water plant superintendent announced Wednesday.

"Consistent high quality fluoridation practice, as demonstrated by Sioux City's water system, is a safe and effective method to prevent tooth decay, thus improving the oral health of our community residents of all ages," he said.