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Drinking Water Treatment Technologies
Goal 2: Protecing America's Waters
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Introduction
The National Risk Management Research Laboratory (NRMRL) is studying drinking water treatment effectiveness in order to manage health risks associated with microbiological and chemical contaminants in our drinking water. The research includes studies on cost, operational issues of concern, subsequent effects on distribution systems, compliance issues, and management of residuals.
Drinking water treatment research is used to determine how contaminants can be controlled, to support regulatory decisions and rule development, and to support implementation of regulations by drinking water system operators.
Treatment research is also used to develop estimates for the cost of implementing regulations nationally. The research can also be used to resolve implementation issues for existing or newly promulgated rules, along with evaluating the unintended consequences of treating for a contaminant, such as detrimental effects on distribution pipe materials.
Finally, treatment research can support the drinking water industry by defining treatment effectiveness for unregulated contaminants that are of public concern.
Environmental Issue or Problem
The United States enjoys one of the best supplies of drinking water in the world. But contaminants can enter our water supplies either as a result of human and animal activities or because the contaminants occur naturally in the environment. Water utilities treat nearly 34 billion gallons of water every day. The amount and type of treatment varies with the source and quality of the water. Generally, surface water systems require more treatment than groundwater systems because they are directly exposed to the atmosphere and runoff from rain and melting snow. Water suppliers use a variety of treatment processes to remove contaminants from drinking water.
Long-Term Goal and Annual Performance Goals Addressed
Drinking Water Research Multi-Year Plan (under revision)
Contact
Alice Gilliland
Assistant Laboratory Director, Water
Additional Information
Risk Management Drinking Water website
Risk Management Drinking Water Treatment Technologies website