The Ground Water Rule (GWR), specifically 40 CFR 141.402(a)(2)(ii), allows for systems with multiple sources to sample a representative source or sources when a total-coliform positive sample occurs in the distribution system. The purpose of a “Representative Source Water Monitoring Plan” (RSMP) is to reduce the burden of monitoring a multitude of ground water sources, when it can be determined that a specific source or sources serves a specific total coliform monitoring site. At the present time, New Jersey will consider RSMPs from systems that use twelve (12) or more ground water sources.

EPA has developed a “Ground Water Rule Triggered and Representative Source Water Monitoring Guidance Manual” to assist you in preparing a RSMP¹. A copy of this manual is available online at the following address: http://www.epa.gov/safewater/disinfection/gwr/pdfs/guide_gwr_triggeredandrepresentativeswpmonitoring.pdf

We strongly encourage you to review and follow EPA’s guidelines when preparing your RSMP

The minimum components of a RSMP include:

• a well record and well permit for each source within the system;
  
• a map or schematic of the distribution system that includes the location of sources, treatment facilities, entry points, interconnections, storage tanks, reservoirs, booster pump stations, critical valves, pressure zones, and any other infrastructure components that may affect the pressure and flow within the distribution system. Total Coliform Rule (TCR) monitoring site locations must also be indicated;
  
• the status, availability and level of treatment for each source²;
  
• the Treatment Plant Facility ID that each source flows to;
  
• an accounting for seasonal demands and sources, if applicable;
  
• the TCR monitoring site locations and the source(s) that serve them³;
  
• a narrative explaining how the representative source determination(s) was made (ie hydraulic model, water quality parameters, etc); and
  
• a completed Certification page signed and sealed by a New Jersey licensed Professional Engineer and also signed by your water system’s Licensed Operator. A copy of the certification page can be found here (Pdf Format).

As a condition of approval of the RSMP, systems will be required to monitor raw water for E. coli from all groundwater sources on a monthly frequency for one (1) year.

Please be advised that until a RSMP is approved in writing by the Department, you are required to sample every source that is in use at the time a total-coliform positive sample occurs in your distribution system.

If you have any questions regarding a RSMP, please contact Felicia Fieo of the BSDWI at (609) 292-5550 or via email at Felicia.fieo@dep.state.nj.us.

¹ Please note that although the GWR allows a state to grant a reduction in monitoring sources based on wells that represent other wells, New Jersey will ONLY be considering monitoring source reductions based on their association to specific Total Coliform Rule monitoring sites.

² Source and treatment plant Facility Id numbers, status, and availability information should be verified against the Bureau’s current inventory information for your system; a copy of your most recent General Inventory Report can be obtained from your Regional Manager.

³ A standard summary form has been developed and must be submitted with a RSMP; a copy of the form is available here (Pdf Format).