This publication explores how natural filtration systems—particularly freshwater mussels and their ecological connection to American eels—shape water quality in the Potomac River and Hampton Roads region. It explains key physical, chemical, and biological factors that influence water health, examines the impacts of pollution and climate change, and highlights the cultural significance of the river to the Patawomeck Tribe. This publication also provides practical, community-focused strategies for conserving waterways and improving environmental resilience.

This document provides an overview of the types and causes of drinking water advisories (e.g. boil water notices) for people on municipal water supplies in the U.S.

Municipal water supplies in the US are regulated under the Safe Drinking Water Act by the EPA, which requires regular water testing and treatment to remove or reduce concentrations of a list of contaminants. Consumer confidence reports (CCRs) are published annually to inform people about the results of water testing conducted each year, but can be challenging to understand. This document provides an overview of what a CCR is and how to understand what it means.

Municipal water supplies in the US are regulated under the Safe Drinking Water Act by the EPA, which requires regular water testing and treatment to remove or reduce concentrations of a list of contaminants. This publication provides an overview of SDWA and what treatment steps are commonly deployed to provide safe drinking water.

Municipal water supplies in the US are regulated under the Safe Drinking Water Act by the EPA, which requires regular water testing and treatment to remove or reduce concentrations of a list of contaminants. This publication provides an overview of SDWA and what treatment steps are commonly deployed to provide safe drinking water.

About 34% of Virginians rent their homes and more than 500,000 of renters likely live in homes on private wells. Many people are surprised to learn that there is only a requirement to provide hot, running water to renters on a private well, with no requirements for routine testing, treatment or addressing water problems associated with health or nuisance impacts. This publication encourages renters to discuss water source, quality, problems and treatment prior to signing a lease and provides suggestions and resources for renters who need assistance.

Virginia has recently released new rainwater harvesting regulations for potable water use under the Virginia Department of Health. This publication provides an overview of rainwater harvesting, considerations and best practices for use and design, and requirements for potable rainwater harvesting permits in Virginia.b

This document provides an overview of several research studies characterizing the presence, types and concentrations of PFAS in Virginia private well water. Treatment options for addressing PFAS are summarized.

Overview of sodium sources, levels of concern and treatment approaches in drinking water