In an effort to assess the public's perception of drinking water issues, the American Water Works Association Research Foundation commissioned a national survey of public water supply consumers to obtain objective data about perceptions of the performance of water utilities. The survey was designed to provide water utility managers, as well as members of Congress and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, with the information needed to respond to water user's concerns. One of the most salient factors indicated by the survey is the need for greatly improved public information programs about water. Survey questions covered such concerns as: local tap water quality, taste and odor complaints, awareness of contamination incidents, consumer concerns about tap water, the use of bottled water, the use of home water treatment devices, the image of water utilities, attitudes toward water rates, reactions to water conservation, and support for drinking water research. Includes tables.