System Capacity refers to the technical, managerial and financial resources of a water system that are necessary for the system to consistently provide safe drinking water for its users.

Each capacity element noted below overlaps and consequently supports the others. Likewise, any weakness or failure of an individual element can lead to the collapse of the others. It is the intent of the Capacity Development Program to prevent the creation of nonviable public water systems, to identify systems at risk and to assist system to acquire and enhance and maintain system capacity.

The Drinking Water Program has a number of funding programs available to help public water systems improve operations and management. Click on the links below for more information about each funding program available.

Public Water System Technical Assistance

If you need assistance on a water quality problem or compliance question, there is help available. The Public Water System Inspection Team provides on-site advice and assistance to public water systems regarding operation, maintenance, treatment, quality control, testing waivers and testing requirements.

DWP Forms for Download

Capacity Development

• Capacity Development Review Checklist (PDF)

Dry periods are becoming more frequent in Maine, with some parts of the state experiencing unusually dry or drought conditions almost annually. To help Public Water Systems maintain service and quality, the Maine CDC Drinking Water Program (DWP) continues to provide updates and resources on the drought situation.

Drinking water sources are vulnerable to contamination whether it be from harmful chemicals or biological organisms (such as bacteria and viruses).

Hydrogeology is the study of groundwater -- water found below the surface of the earth. Believe it or not, about half of Maine's homeowners are practicing hydrogeologists, because they have, with the help of a well driller, explored for, found, and are actively utilizing groundwater. These homeowners derive their drinking water from private water wells located on their property. All of these wells, regardless of the type or depth, get their water from groundwater.

Violations

Violations are issued when a public water system does not meet all of the requirements mandated by the Safe Drinking Water Act or the Maine Rules Related to Drinking Water.

Treatment systems are mechanical and/or chemical processes that remove contaminants from water, ensuring it is safe for consumption. Treatment systems are an important part of delivering safe drinking water for many public water systems throughout the state. However, treatment only works when the proper chemicals are used in the right amounts, and treatment is maintained and monitored. Failure to regularly and effectively maintain and monitor your treatment system puts the health of your customers at risk.

Before modifications are made to any existing public water system in a manner which may affect the quality of water produced, that system must submit an application detailing the proposed changes to the Drinking Water Program for approval.