EPA suggests utilities consider current supplies before alternatives
Source U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has released a document that describes best practices and targets for well-managed water supply systems that control water loss, incentivize conservation and manage demand.
As population grows and water resources become stressed, water utilities may look to expand their water supplies through construction of new reservoirs, increased withdrawals from lakes and rivers, or increased pumping of groundwater. Before using alternative supplies, utilities should consider if they are making the best use of the supplies already under their control.
EPA has developed the best practices document to help water utilities and federal and state governments carry out assessments of the potential for future water conservation and efficiency savings to avoid or minimize the need for new water supply development. The document also can be used by a utility or a third party to conduct assessments of how the utility is managing its water resources from technical, financial and managerial perspectives.
