DoD installations must comply with the SWTR if they use what?

• A. Groundwater
• B. Surface water
• C. Reclaimed water
• D. Bottled water

Answer: (B)

The main idea is that the Surface Water Treatment Rule applies to drinking-water systems that source water from surface water—lakes, rivers, and reservoirs. DoD installations using surface water for their drinking supply must meet SWTR requirements, which means implementing appropriate treatment (such as filtration and disinfection) and ongoing monitoring to control microbial risks. Groundwater on its own isn’t covered by SWTR, unless it’s groundwater under the influence of surface water, in which case other regulatory considerations apply. Reclaimed water and bottled water aren’t governed by SWTR in the sense of public drinking-water systems—the former is treated wastewater for reuse, and the latter is regulated by the FDA.