As an employee of the Newport News Waterworks Department, it's my duty to ensure the public water distribution system remains clean and safe for consumption.  Being the Cross-Connection Control Program Coordinator, and a DPOR certified Backflow Prevention Device Worker, I rely on the Backflow Prevention Device Workers , certified by DPOR, on a daily basis to ascertain the functionability of backflow prevention assemblies, devices,  and conditions within the public and private water distributions. From my experience, a competent and certified BPDW is crucial for water purveyors and the citizens alike.  I respectfully request that the certification program for Backflow Prevention Device Workers through DPOR remains, so that we can continue to have certified Backflow Prevention Device Workers performing work critical to help maintain safe clean drinking water.