Media Release

FOR: Immediate Release
DATE: October 15, 1998
CONTACT: Clay Commons, (401) 222-6867

Department of Health Offers Informational Sessions
On New Drinking Water Program
Officials Looking for Public Input on Risk Assessment Plan

The Rhode Island Department of Health, Office of Drinking Water Quality, will conduct public meetings during October to inform people of the Source Water Assessment Program. The meetings will be held at the locations listed below.

The Source Water Assessment Program identifies and ranks the threats to sources of public drinking water. Rhode Island generally has good water, and an effective monitoring program. As pressure from development increases, the Source Water Assessments help towns and water suppliers take appropriate action to protect water quality.

Public involvement will be the key to successful drinking water protection programs. Consumers, landowners, businesses and other residents are invited to attend these meetings and learn more about Source Water Assessments and what they mean to our state.

Schedule of Meetings

Southern Rhode Island: 22 October 1998, 6:30 – 8:30 p.m., White Hall Auditorium URI. Hosted by the Southern RI Conservation District. Contact: Alicia Lehrer at 822-8832.

Eastern Rhode Island: 27 October 1998, 6:30 – 8:30 p.m., Portsmouth Town Hall. Hosted by the Newport Water Department. Contact: Clay Commons at 222-6867.

Northern Rhode Island: 29 October 1998, 6:30 – 8:30 p.m., Pawtucket City Council Chambers. Hosted by the Northern RI Conservation District. Contact: Gina DeMarco at 949-1480.

For speech or hearing impaired,
1-800-745-5555 (TTY)
Department of Health Website: www.health.state.ri.us