Newsroom
All News Releases By Date
PA EPA PROPOSES GUIDELINES TO HELP PUBLIC WATER SYSTEMS TO EXPLORE WATER CONSERVATION MEASURES
Release Date: 04/24/98
Contact Information:
FOR RELEASE: FRIDAY, APRIL 24, 1998
EPA PROPOSES GUIDELINES TO HELP PUBLIC WATER SYSTEMS TO EXPLORE WATER CONSERVATION MEASURES
On April 21, EPA published in the Federal Register guidelines for public water systems who may be interested in developing water conservation programs for their customers. The l996 Safe Drinking Water Act requires EPA to publish such guidelines although, under the law, the development and implementation of water conservation programs is voluntary. The law also says that states may require water systems applying for funds under the new drinking water state revolving funds to submit a conservation plan consistent with the guidelines. EPA makes no recommendations on selection of specific water conservation measures. Examples of optional water conservation measures include: programs to identify and fix leaks, residential water use surveys and service connection metering. The guidelines are addressed to water system planners and include water conservation planning criteria, integrating water conservation and infrastructure planning, developing measures, and state roles and programs. EPA believes that water systems can benefit from conservation planning whether or not it is mandated by regulators. Strategic use of water conservation not only helps save the nation’s water resources but also can help extend the value and life of both water supply and wastewater treatment infrastructure, extending the beneficial investment of public funds. The final guidelines must be issued by August 6. EPA is providing a 30-day public comment period. The general public can get additional information from the Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 1-800-426-4791. The draft guidelines are also available on the Internet at: https://www.epa.gov/owm/genwave.htm.R-47 ###
Search this collection of releases | or search all news releases
View selected historical press releases from 1970 to 1998 in the EPA History website.
