What is the role of the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) concerning water supply?

The role of the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) concerning water supply primarily focuses on regulating and ensuring safe drinking water standards. This responsibility involves developing and enforcing regulations that protect public health by ensuring that drinking water is free from harmful contaminants. The CDPH sets water quality standards that public water systems must meet, conducts regular assessments of water quality, and monitors compliance with state and federal regulations.

This aspect of their role is crucial because safe drinking water is essential for public health, and strict oversight helps to prevent waterborne diseases and ensures that community water supplies are safe for consumption.

While oversight of treatment processes, funding new projects, or direct distribution might be important aspects of water supply management, these are either responsibilities typically handled by local water agencies or other governmental bodies rather than the CDPH itself. The primary function of the CDPH is centered on health regulations and standards for drinking water rather than the operational aspects of water supply.