rocky stream surrounded by fall foliage

History of Drinking Water Protection

History of Drinking Water Protection

Protecting drinking water is a top priority for the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the PA Department of Environmental Protection (DEP).

On the federal level, protective drinking water standards have been established for more than 90 contaminants, including drinking water regulations issued since the 1996 amendments to the Safe Drinking Water Act that strengthen public health protection.

In Pennsylvania, the Bureau of Safe Drinking Water is charged with managing the federally delegated drinking water program and implementing both the federal and state Safe Drinking Water Act and associated regulations.

These regulations focus on protecting the quality of drinking water, whether from above-ground or underground sources.

Girl at sink with hand in running faucet
FACT

Invasive species cost the US over 120 billion dollars each year. These species impact tourism, transportation, resource use, water withdrawals and much more.

WHAT YOU CAN DO

Never move animals or plants from one area to another. Don’t move firewood, soil, or other items that might contain insects or microbes.