What type of microorganisms does the Ground Water Rule (GWR) focus on?

The Ground Water Rule (GWR) primarily targets waterborne microorganisms, which encompasses a range of pathogens that can contaminate drinking water supplies derived from groundwater sources. This regulation specifically aims to reduce the risk of disease by ensuring that systems that utilize groundwater protect against these harmful microorganisms, which can include both bacteria and viruses among others.

Waterborne microorganisms can pose significant health risks, leading to illnesses from the pathogens present in contaminated water. The GWR is essential because groundwater is often relied upon for drinking purposes, and the natural protection that soil and geological materials provide can be compromised by various factors such as contamination from agricultural runoff, improperly constructed wells, and other human activities.

The focus on waterborne microorganisms means that the GWR includes various regulations and requirements for monitoring, public notification, and corrective actions, allowing water systems to identify and address potential contamination effectively while ensuring public health safety. By understanding the broad category of waterborne microorganisms rather than limiting it to viruses, fungi, or bacteria alone, the GWR encompasses a more comprehensive approach to groundwater safety.