Source Water Contamination Source water quantity and quality fluctuates over time due changing conditions cause by droughts floods, and contamination. Drinking water systems are constantly monitoring source water for levels of contaminants that may require additional treatment and increase costs. An example of changes in contaminants is the increasing nitrate levels in the Big Sioux River , which could require more treatment to meet drinking water standards. More information about water quality monitoring can be found at the link below.
Operations Operating and maintaining a water treatment facility is highly technical, requiring a specific skill set. In addition, chemical and energy costs continue to rise, and water treatment plants are not immune to this situation. Did You Know? Roughly 40% to 50% of operating costs for water treatment facilities are energy costs. Water and wastewater treatment facilities accounting for roughly 2% of the energy used in the U.S.
Big Sioux River Nitrate Levels eastdakota.org/water-quality-monitoring
Energy Efficiency for Water Utilities epa.gov/sustainable-water-infrastructure/ energy-efficiency-water-utilities
Emerging Contaminants The EPA is consistently evaluating and finding contaminants in water that have now been proven to have health impacts. This prompts new drinking water standards for these contaminants, and can require additional testing and treatment, or infrastructure improvements. Once removed from water, these contaminants often produce a waste stream that requires disposal and related costs.
Future Planning and Growth Water treatment facilities must plan for future growth and water needs in their communities, which are expensive tasks.
Infrastructure First Project
Drinking Water | 109
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