From Source To Tap - The Multi-Barrier Approach To Safe Drinking Water

Source Water Protection & Management

In any drinking water system, protecting source water is a critical step towards avoiding drinking water contamination. Source water protection (see Figure 2) based on watershed management involves a coordinated approach among stakeholders to develop short- and long-term plans to prevent, minimize, or control potential sources of pollution or enhance water quality where necessary. Source water includes surface waters, aquifers or groundwater recharge areas.

Figure 2: Components of source water protection

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In addition to reducing public health risks, effective watershed management minimizes operating costs and reduces the degree of drinking water treatment required, the quantity of chemicals used during treatment, and the creation of treatment by-products.