Fort McPherson (Aug 28/06) - One cubic centimetre of water is exactly one gram. One litre of water is exactly one kilogram.

Why is this important? Well, consider this: When Trevor Peterson of Fort McPherson drives a truck carrying 77,000 litres of water to the hamlet's treatment plant, that's one very heavy truck.

Of course, hauling heavy loads is all in a regular day's work for Peterson, who has the critical job of keeping the town's water flowing.

He said he visits Deep Water Lake up to four times a day to collect water for residents. He then drives 20 km back to the community on the Dempster Highway.

"I kind of fell into this job," he said.

While he's only 22, Peterson said he has the right trucking licence and was recommended by a friend.

He said he started driving the truck at 20 - a time when most young people are still asking to borrow their parents' car. Having lived in Fort McPherson most of his life, Peterson said he's never seen a water shortage.

That's a sure sign that he's out there doing his job properly - making sure residents can wash cars, water their plants and have a cold drink on the front porch after a day's work.

Peterson said he likes his job, especially since the truck is new.

"It's a good truck," he said, adding the cab is air conditioned and the truck's suspension system is good.

He said he listens to music while hauling loads to the community from the lake.

"Can't drive without it," he said.