CHALLENGES
Capacity, Constraints, and Impacting Factors Quality
Drinking water value and viability is highly dependent on two factors: water quality and quantity. A local source might be available, but if it is lower quality, it may require more treatment and there may be difficulty in disposing of waste streams. Regionalization of water systems may provide more resiliency in availability and improved water quality. Extreme Weather Extreme weather conditions like flooding and drought impact both water supply and demand for drinking water, thus affecting source water, treatment plants, storage, and distribution piping. Extreme weather conditions highlight the importance of system resiliency and redundancy.
Existing Challenges Operators and Training
Future Challenges Some community and rural water systems are paying for current and past improvements through utility rates and user fees; however, these fees do not always consider future improvements. Proper planning must happen before infrastructure improvements begin to ensure funding is available. Emerging Contaminants The EPA is continuously studying emerging contaminants to develop rules and guidelines for sampling and treatment of drinking water. Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are an example. New findings and treatment requirements will result in additional treatment of drinking water by community and rural water systems.
Certified water treatment operators are critical to the success of our State’s community and rural water systems. Recruiting certified professionals to rural communities can be difficult, which can limit funding and improvement projects for treatment and distribution. Infrastructure Management Community and rural water systems infrastructure is aging, and the cost of repairing or replacing these systems is rapidly increasing. The cost to make necessary improvements typically comes from utility revenue, or fees and surcharges added to utility rates and fees, resulting in higher utility rates. Funding Communities are facing limited funding and financing sources to execute projects, while also working to minimize financial impacts on community members. Planning Planning for growth and treatment requirements is essential to properly address local, regional, and statewide drinking water needs. Extreme Weather Extreme weather events like flooding and drought impact water quality and availability of water for treatment.
Learn more about PFAS and its impact on South Dakota bit.ly/FBSR-PFASvideo
114 | Drinking Water
South Dakota Governor’s Office of Economic Development
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