EPA Announces New Policy on Using DWSRF for Water Rights Purchases

This week, EPA announced a new policy for using the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF). EPA will now allow DWSRF funds to be used for purchasing rights or access to new sources of drinking water under certain circumstances. This change will allow public water systems to switch water sources in the event of contamination or to obtain rights or access to new water sources in the event of drought or other hydrological changes to meet current water needs.

EPA’s class deviation responds directly to the needs and requests of the states and public water systems, while improving public health protection. More information can be found on EPA’s website: https://www.epa.gov/dwsrf/dwsrf-class-deviation-water-rights-deviation-40-cfr-ss353520e2-2019.