Amy Finch is the compliance and operations support manager for WhiteWater, the water utility management subsidiary of Auburn-based construction firm R.H. White.
November 25, 2024
Advice
5 Things I know about ... Protecting your business’ water supply
By Amy Finch
This is the first part in a two-part advice series on businesses’ relationship to water. Part two appeared originally in the Dec. 9 edition.
5) Water is not a limitless resource. As business consumers, we must be conscious of our water use and how we impact the overall burden on our water supplies. We seem to face more severe drought conditions and water restrictions each year, with 2024 being no exception. Think about how you can employ water restrictions in your business. Simple acts of conservation — like capturing rainwater for irrigation, using low-flow shower heads and toilets, or buying water-efficient restaurant appliances — can have an impact. Every drop counts!
4) Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are here forever. We have all seen news reports on forever chemicals. The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection set a maximum contaminant level for six of these compounds in 2020, and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has announced new federal standards that will take effect in 2027.
3) The price of water is increasing. Treating water to remove contamination so that it is safe to drink is very costly and can result in increased water rates. Many people do not hesitate to pay extra for technology, but when water rates rise, there is discord. It is a challenge for water suppliers to continue adhering to increased regulatory requirements and contamination from PFAS while balancing rate increases.
2) Getting the lead out is a priority. On Oct. 8, the Biden Administration issued Lead and Copper Rule Improvements (LCRI) to identify and replace lead pipes within 10 years. Alongside the LCRI, the EPA announced $53 million in newly available drinking water infrastructure funding to support Massachusetts' lead pipe replacement and inventory projects.
1) Water infrastructure is aging, and capital improvements are needed. Investing in our water infrastructure is critical to the continued supply of reliable, clean, and safe water to the residents and businesses of Massachusetts. Small and large water suppliers should plan for routine maintenance and replacement of system components. A variety of state and federal grant programs are available to help assist businesses in addressing aging infrastructure in their water and wastewater facilities. Grant information is available on both the MassDEP and EPA websites.
CORRECTION: Due to an editing error, an earlier version of this column incorrectly stated the Healey Administration was responsible for the Lead and Copper Rule Improvements legislation. In fact, it was the Biden Administration.
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