AWWA Publishes New Water Utility Guide on USDA Tools for Source Water Protection

AWWA has published a new guide entitled, “USDA Tools to Support Source Water Protection.” The guide highlights opportunities for water systems to leverage USDA conservation programs to expand the effectiveness of community partnerships and protect drinking water sources. It includes an overview of nutrient challenges and SWP; seven specific actions for water utilities to get involved in agricultural conservation projects in their watersheds; information about USDA conservation programs including how to apply and who to contact; along with a variety of case studies and project examples; as well as information about how AWWA is working with members of Congress and other partners on the reauthorization of the 2018 Farm Bill to provide long-term support for source water protection. The seven actions in the guide emphasize that water utilities can:

1. Help shape how conservation dollars are spent, focusing them on the greatest benefits to source water protection.
2. Foster mutual trust and understanding between water systems and farmers, encouraging constructive problem-solving.
3. Make progress on specific source water concerns by focusing on practices that will best address them.
4. Save on treatment costs or delay or avoid installing additional treatment.
5. Reduce risks to their water supplies.
6. Increase public confidence in both water and agricultural sectors.
7. Leverage every dollar they contribute through NRCS and other partners.

For more information, view and download the guide HERE.