Last Chance at In-Depth Ground Water Rule Training
The Ground Water Rule, promulgated by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in November 2006, provides increased protection against microbial pathogens in public water systems using ground water sources. Ground Water Rule requirements become effective December 1, 2009.
All public water systems - community and noncommunity - that have at least one ground water source are affected by the Ground Water Rule. This includes those systems that purchase water and/or are connected to a system, which has a ground water source. The rule also applies to any system that mixes a surface and ground water source following treatment.
There are two compliance tracks of the Ground Water Rule depending on the type of microbiological treatment provided by the water system: systems designated as having 4-log treatment of viruses and systems without 4-log treatment of viruses. For those systems that believe they already achieve 4-log treatment for viruses under their current treatment process, NJDEP is developing a list of items that must be submitted by a water system for NJDEP to concur with this determination.
Under the Ground Water Rule, systems with 4-log treatment for viruses are required to maintain their treatment and perform “compliance monitoring”. Those systems without 4-log treatment must perform “source water monitoring” every time a total coliform positive sample is detected in the water distribution system under the Total Coliform Rule.
In addition, the Ground Water Rule requires states to perform periodic sanitary surveys evaluating eight elements of the system (i.e. water system management and operations) and identifying significant deficiencies, which may contribute to a system’s vulnerability to fecal contamination.
Deficiencies and/or fecal indicator positive results from source water monitoring will require a system to perform corrective action. Corrective action may include, but is not limited to, correcting identified deficiencies, providing an alternate source of water, or eliminating the source of contamination.
EPA has developed a substantial amount of informational material which can be found on it’s Ground Water Rule website at http://www.epa.gov/safewater/disinfection/gwr/index.html. The Division of Water Supply is developing its enforcement strategy for the Ground Water Rule. The Ground Water Rule requires states to make several decisions regarding its compliance requirements. Our web site is still under development, so please check back regularly for updated information.
Compliance and Guidance Material
Division of Water Supply
Water Supply Operations Element
609-292-5550
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