Which regulation focuses on reducing the risk of fecal contamination in public water systems using groundwater?

• A. Interim Enhanced Surface Water Treatment Rule (IESWTR)
• B. Ground Water Rule (GWR)
• C. Surface Water Treatment Rule (SWTR)
• D. Total Coliform Rule (TCR)

Answer: (B)

The Ground Water Rule (GWR) specifically targets the reduction of fecal contamination risk in public water systems that utilize groundwater sources. This regulation was established to provide additional safeguards for groundwater systems, particularly those that are vulnerable to contamination from surface water or that lack adequate treatment processes.

The GWR mandates that systems must monitor for E. coli and other fecal indicators, especially in the context of groundwater wells. By focusing on these indicators and establishing requirements for sanitary surveys and corrective action, the GWR helps ensure that the drinking water is safe and free from harmful pathogens, addressing public health concerns associated with groundwater contamination.

Other regulations, like the Interim Enhanced Surface Water Treatment Rule and Surface Water Treatment Rule, primarily deal with surface water systems and do not specifically address groundwater contamination concerns. The Total Coliform Rule focuses on coliform bacteria but does not exclusively center on fecal contamination or groundwater systems. Therefore, the GWR is the appropriate regulation for managing the risks associated with fecal contamination in public water systems that depend on groundwater sources.