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Arsenic Rule Implementation Research
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Frequently Asked Questions

Why is EPA conducting these research demonstrations?

When the new arsenic standard was affirmed by the Administrator of EPA, she made a commitment to establish a $20 million research, development and technical assistance program to assist small systems in meeting the new standard. This demonstration program is a part of that commitment.

Must all public water systems participate in the demonstrations?

No. Participation in the demonstrations is voluntary.

Why should my utility volunteer to participate in the demonstrations?

Utilities might be interested in participating in these studies because it will allow them the opportunity to have the effectiveness and reliability of an arsenic treatment process installed and tested at their site. At the end of the study, the utility will have operating information on an arsenic removal technology and be in a better position to make future decisions on treatment needs.

If a utility volunteers to participate in the demonstration and is selected, will the utility receive money from EPA?

No. The utility will not receive funds from EPA. EPA will purchase a technology or engineering services and associated supplies and work with the utility to install them at the site.

Where do I submit the information if my utility wants to volunteer?

You must submit the information to your state drinking water administrator who will then transmit it to EPA via the Association of State Drinking Water Administrators by July 15,2003. Water systems located on Tribal lands, should refer to the "Information for Water Systems Located on Tribal Lands" section of the web site listed below.

What information do I submit?

A form is available that can be used for this purpose. Site Identification Form

Why is the State Drinking Water Program involved in this process?

The state drinking water program is involved because the state will have to approve the plans for installation or changes to the system before the demonstration can begin.

Where do I call if I have further questions?

The Federal Register Notice and this web site contain contact information.

What costs will a utility bear if it is chosen to participate in one of these studies?

The utility may have to bear costs such as electricity, operator and other incidental costs associated with the technology or engineering approach.

What happens if after the demonstration is over a utility does not like the technology that was placed at the site?

If the utility does not want the technology, EPA will remove the technology.

Does a utility have to sign an agreement with the EPA to participate in the study?

Yes. This agreement will outline the responsibilities of EPA and the utility so there is a clear understanding of who does what with regard to the demonstration. The agreement will be tailored to the utility and the technology or engineering approach.

If my utility has a number of water sources that have an arsenic problem will the demonstration project cover all the water sources (wells)?

No. For example, if a utility has a number of wells exceeding the arsenic MCL, the demonstration project will be conducted at only one site.

What if my utility has contaminants other than arsenic that is concerned about?

If the water supply has contaminants in addition to arsenic, these should be noted on the form when it is submitted.

Some files are available in Adobe Acrobat PDF format.
To learn more about PDF files, and to download a recent version of the Adobe Acrobat reader visit:
http://www.epa.gov/epahome/pdf.html

 

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