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Notice to all Public Water Suppliers Using Ground Water

New Regulation Applies to You - Ground Water Rule (GWR)

September 1, 2009 Deadlines:

  • All PWSs with chlorination must submit GWR Form A (previously mailed to you).
  • All PWSs are required to submit GWR Form B (previously mailed to you).
  • All PWSs with multiple wells have the option to submit GWR Form C by September 1, 2009. Completing Form C may give your system the flexibility to reduce required GWR sampling.

All forms, factsheets, and contacts are at http://www.mass.gov/dep/water/drinking/systems.htm#gwr.

Regional Contacts:

Northeast - Jim Dillon: 978-694-3231 & Melissa Privetera: 978-694-3403
Southeast - Mike Quink: 508-946-2766
Western - Jim Bumgardner: 413-755-2270
Central - Kelly Momberger: 508-849-4023
Boston - Frank Niles: 617-574-6871

What is the key requirement of the GWR?

The GWR is effective December 1, 2009: All PWSs that do not provide MassDEP approved 99.99% (4-log) treatment of viruses must conduct "triggered monitoring" of their source water for a fecal indicator each time the PWS is notified of a total coliform-positive sample collected under Total Coliform Rule bacteria monitoring. The sample(s) must be collected: within 24 hours of being notified of the coliform positive, prior to any treatment or chemical addition, and at all ground water sources active at the time positive TCR sample was collected. Follow-up sampling and Tier 1 - 24-hour - public notification are required if any samples are positive.

If the PWS is notified of multiple total coliform positives on the same day, the PWS must collect a GWR sample for every positive sample (e.g. 3 positive total coliform samples require collection of 3 GWR samples at each source).

Important Notes:

  • If you get a TCR total coliform positive result in your distribution system or source, call your regional contact now to discuss the GWR requirements that will apply to you beginning December 1, 2009.
  • A TCR positive result triggers GWR sampling. TCR sampling requirements remain the same - continue taking routine and repeat TCR samples as you always do!
  • DO NOT shock chlorinate your well prior to taking a GWR sample; regional approval is now required.
  • Use proper sampling techniques for collecting TCR and GWR samples to avoid positives and public notice.