The United States Geological Survey (USGS) has the principal responsibility within the Federal Government to provide the hydrologic information and understanding needed by others to achieve the best use and management of the Nation's water resources. To accomplish this mission, the Water Resources Division, in cooperation with State, local, and other Federal agencies, systematically collects and analyzes data to evaluate the quantity, quality, and use of the Nation's water resources and provides results of these investigations to the public. The USGS also conducts water-resources appraisals describing the occurrence, availability, and physical, chemical, and biological characteristics of surface and ground water.

Launched in 2011 from the spinoff of the water-related businesses of ITT Corporation, Xylem Inc. enables customers to transport, treat, test and efficiently use water in public utility, residential and commercial building services, industrial and agricultural settings. The company does business in more than 150 countries, and its people bring broad applications expertise with a strong focus on finding local solutions to the world's most challenging water and wastewater problems.

Xylem is committed to delivering on its tagline, "Let's solve water," both through its business and corporate citizenship and social investment program, Xylem Watermark. As part of Watermark's holistic approach to deliver sustainable water solutions, Xylem is proud to support World Water Monitoring Challenge and serve as the global sponsor of the Stockholm Junior Water Prize competition.

Smithfield Foods, Inc. is a proud sponsor of World Water Monitoring Challenge. Smithfield Foods is an international food company with operations throughout the U.S., United Kingdom, Mexico, Europe and Asia. Smithfield offers more than 50 brands of high-quality pork, beef and turkey products, along with more than 200 gourmet food products. Smithfield is earning high marks as a leader in environmental stewardship. State and federal regulatory officials credit Smithfield’s stewardship efforts for helping to preserve and protect the natural resources in its communities. As a socially responsible company, Smithfield continues to explore innovative approaches to protecting the environment and ensuring the welfare of its animals, the safety of its employees and the wholesomeness of its products.