In an industry whose services often are out of public view, the District of Columbia Water and Sewer Authority, known as DC Water, is making a big splash. DC Water, an independent public authority, serves more than 2.2 million people in a 725-sq-mile area around the nation's capital.

The agency also operates what it says is the world's largest advanced wastewater treatment plant. Now partway through a 10-year, $4-billion capital program, DC Water is experiencing the largest expansion in its history. To meet that challenge, the authority is embracing innovative technology and adopting progressive business practices.