The Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) Amendments of 1996 requires states to develop and implement Source Water Assessment Programs (SWAP), analyzing existing and potential threats to the quality of the public drinking water throughout the state. The information from these assessments can provide the basis for taking action to protect source water.

Most states submitted proposed programs to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency in early February 1999. When the programs are approved by EPA, states have a maximum of 3 1/2 years to implement them. In many states this will involve evaluating thousands of water systems.

An important focus of the program is public right-to-know and public involvement. States were required to have broad participation on advisory committees during the development of their state program and to conduct public hearings, focus groups, etc. States are also required to ensure that the results of the assessments are made available to the public in an understandable manner.

For example, New York State conducted numerous conferences, held focus groups, established a Source Water Protection Coordinating Committee with broad-based representation, worked with county water quality coordinating committees and county and district health departments, held regional workshops, and held public hearings on the draft plan. In addition, the state has placed a great deal of information about the development of the state program on its Web site http://www.health.state.ny.us/nysdoh/water

The state of Colorado established a citizen advisory team, known as the Design Team to help develop the state's program. The team had diverse representation from around the state and members also helped to develop public education materials. Colorado also established several other advisory groups, held public meetings, and made information available through its Web site http://www.cdphe2.state.co.us/sw/swapfaq.html

Texas Natural Resources Conservation Commission used a Drinking Water Advisory Work Group established to begin its public participation efforts. Texas, like many other states, is providing extensive information and soliciting public comment and feedback through its Web site http://www.tnrcc.state.tx.us/water/wu/swap

For further information: http://www.epa.gov/ogwdw/source/contacts.html

Look for information on your state's Source Water Assessment Program on its Web site and get involved!