US EPA launches online mapping tool to protect drinking water sources

The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has launched an online mapping tool, called Drinking Water Mapping Application to Protect Source Waters (DWMAPS), in order to help protect drinking water sources of the country.

With the crucial information being provided by the tool, the public, water system operators, state programmes, and federal agencies will be able to protect the drinking water sources of the US.

DWMAPS helps its users to know about their watershed and learn more about their water supplier.

Additionally, it provides information about whether the sources of the user’s drinking water are polluted and whether there are potential elements of pollution, which may harm the water supply of the communities.

The tool also provides guidance to its users to several means through which they can get involved in protecting drinking water sources in their communities.

EPA administrator Gina McCarthy said: "A key part of having safe drinking water is protecting the sources – the streams, rivers, and lakes where utilities withdraw water.

"DWMAPS is the latest example of how EPA is using technology and digital tools to better protect public health and the environment."

Programme managers of utilities and state drinking water can spot potential sources of contamination in their own state and localities as well locate data to support source water assessments and prepare plans to manage potential sources of contamination and assess accidental spills and releases.

The tool integrates drinking water protection initiatives with other environmental programmes at the federal, state, and local levels.

DWMAPS can offer users with information to update source water assessments and prioritise source water protection in any location or watershed in the country.

EPA developed DWMAPS in consultation with EPA regional drinking water programmes, state drinking water regulators, and public water systems.

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Image: With DWMAPS, users will be able to update source water evaluations and prioritise source water protection. Photo: courtesy of khunaspix/ FreeDigitalPhotos.net