Environmental Impact of September 11th
Anthony Benoit abenoit@trcc.commnet.edu | EnvironmentalET Home
Environmental Impacts

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How does a public water supply (PWS) work?

A water supply has several stages:

  • Water source
    • This is usually a reservoir or lake
    • Some supplies draw groundwater from wells
    • Contamination might be introduced here, but the next stage would probably take it out
  • Water treatment
    • Water from a lake is usually filtered and chlorinated.
    • Chemicals are removed and germs are inactivated
  • Water storage
    • Large tanks or reservoirs may be an inviting target
  • Water distribution
    • This system could be damaged or contaminated

You can take a virtual tour of the treatment plant in Greensboro, NC, at http://www.greensboro-nc.gov/water/Supply/treatment.htm

Water is a national security issue

Revised