Program Objectives
Identify the source(s) of water used by Public Water Systems
Source water protection areas are delineated for ground water and surface water sources. This technical process considers characteristics of the aquifer or watershed and the public
water system intake. It then identifies the land area that contributes recharge to the hydrologic or hydrogeologic system above or upgradient from the public water system well or
intake structure. These protection areas are part of a source water delineation and assessment report (SWDAR) and are shown graphically on a map. Check out examples of completed reports on the Internet
Identify and Inventory Potential Contaminant Sources
Potential contaminant sources within the source water protection area are identified and described in the assessment report. Regulated contaminants of concern in Montana include
nitrate, microbial contaminants, and certain fuels, solvents, herbicides, pesticides, and metals. Potential contaminants sources include septic systems, animal feeding operations,
underground storage tanks, floor drains and sumps, and certain land use activities.
Assess the Susceptibility of Public Water Systems to potential contaminant sources
A susceptibility assessment consists of evaluating the setting of the well or intake and the relative hazard posed by potential contaminant sources. A determination of relative
susceptibility for each significant potential contaminant source identified within the source water protection area will be in the assessment report.
Make the results of the delineation and assessment available to the public
Source water assessments must be made available to the public; this is accomplished by completing a technical report that addresses items one through three above. Various media are
used to distribute the reports including the SWAP Internet site, state library, and excerpts in the consumer confidence reports.
