What must a comprehensive water supply study include?

A comprehensive water supply study is essential for ensuring a sustainable and reliable source of water for a community. Including alternative sources of water is critical because it allows planners and decision-makers to consider various options that can help meet demand, especially during times of drought or other water shortages. This aspect of the study supports resilience in the water supply system by exploring options such as groundwater, surface water, rainwater harvesting, or recycled water.

By assessing alternative water sources, the study can identify practical solutions to improve water supply security. It also facilitates contingency plans should the primary sources face contamination or depletion. This thorough approach contributes to effective watershed management and ensures adaptability to changing environmental conditions and water usage patterns.

Other aspects such as trunk lines, handling of special wastes, and grit screening primarily focus on the infrastructure and wastewater management components rather than the water supply itself, making them less central to the scope of a water supply study.