Eligible systems include those with direct filtration, alternative treatment (such as package plants), or slow sand filtration plants.  These plants are assumed to achieve 2 log removal.  A minimum of 0.5 log is achieved by disinfection.  To obtain the additional 0.5 log credit to meet the 3 log requirement, suppliers must develop a protection plan or update an existing plan according to the minimum criteria described in "Developing a Local Surface Water Supply Protection Plan" (updated May 2000), and obtain DEP approval of the plan.

Suppliers can obtain a hard copy of the guidance and schedule an appointment for on-site assistance with a plan by calling Kathy Romero, DWP, at 617-292-5727 or by e-mailing kathleen.romero@state.ma.us.

Developing a protection plan allows a supplier to document goals, actions and timelines for achieving local watershed protection.  A plan also shows customers that there has been thought and hard work put into protecting their sources for the future, and may make them more amenable to supporting funds for watershed protection projects.  Obtaining the additional log credit may mean that suppliers can reduce the scope of construction of treatment plants and the amount of disinfection chemicals used. 

In addition, DWP's Source Water Protection Technical Assistance Grant Program provides funds to third parties to work with suppliers in conducting watershed protection work.  Developing a protection plan, as well as implementing actions described in a plan, are projects that are eligible for funding.  Proposals benefiting sources with an approved plan obtain extra points in the ranking process.