Des Moines Water Works is an independently owned and operated public utility that provides drinking water to more than 300,000 people in Des Moines, Iowa and the surrounding metropolitan area. The utility was established as a private company in 1871 and was later purchased by the city of Des Moines in 1919. It is one of the largest water utilities in Iowa. Recognized as an industry leader, the company is one of the largest 100 utilities in the country. The company sells water to many cities and other entities in central Iowa. Des Moines Water Works also operates Water Works Park. It has also partnered with other cities in Iowa to provide billing and collection services, meter reading and field service.