DEC and DOH Release Drinking Water Source Protection Program Framework 2025 for Public Comment

Public Comments Accepted through June 25, 2025

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Acting Commissioner Amanda Lefton and State Department of Health (DOH) Commissioner Dr. James McDonald today announced the Drinking Water Source Protection Program Framework 2025 is available for public comment. The Framework is the principal document that acts as a guide for communities and technical assistance providers to draft and implement a plan that protects public drinking water sources for the long term.

"The Drinking Water Source Protection Program is an example of how partnerships across all levels of government can empower communities to protect irreplaceable sources of drinking water," said Acting DEC Commissioner Amanda Lefton. "Releasing the Drinking Water Source Protection Program Framework 2025 for public comment is the final step in transitioning this program from a pilot to an established program that will continue to advance our state's commitment to protecting water quality and providing clean drinking water for New Yorkers."

"From the source to the tap, New York State works with municipalities to ensure drinking water is safe, and the Drinking Water Source Protection Program is a great example of this collaboration," said State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald. "In continuation of this State supported, locally led initiative, we encourage public review and comment on the framework that will serve to help protect public health."

The Drinking Water Source Protection Program (DWSP2) is a multi-agency initiative led by DEC and DOH in collaboration with the Departments of Agriculture and Markets (AGM) and State (DOS), empowering municipalities to take critical actions to improve and protect the environment and public drinking water sources, even before they are treated to supply safe potable water.

The updated DWSP2 Framework incorporates information compiled over the last five years, including experience and feedback collected by technical assistance providers who worked directly with communities to develop and implement drinking water source protection plans. The Framework ensures the statewide program is implemented consistently across participating communities across New York State. 

DWSP2 is open to all community public drinking water supplies in New York, regardless of size or source water type. As part of DWSP2, volunteer communities work with technical assistance providers to develop and implement a customized drinking water source protection program at no cost to the participating municipalities. The program offers a holistic and comprehensive approach that builds from established protection efforts. 

Since launching in 2021, more than 100 New York municipalities have utilized the program, drafting 82 plans and working toward creating action-oriented, community-driven DWSP2 plans to protect drinking water sources. Additionally, 28 of the participating municipalities completed the plan development process and subsequently received state acceptance to move forward on implementing their plans.

Municipalities participating in the DWSP2: 

• Promote public health and safety; 
• Support economic viability; 
• Enhance environmental protection and recreational opportunities; and 
• Strengthen community partnerships and collaboration. 

The DWSP2 process provides updated source water maps, assessments of potential contaminant sources, and identifies effective methods to address potential contaminant sources. 

DEC is hosting a webinar on Wednesday, May 28 at 2 p.m., to present the updated Framework, summarize feedback received and the information or resources included to improve the document and ultimately the overall program. The public comment period closes on June 25, 2025, at 4 p.m. Communities interested in viewing the Framework can access the latest version on DEC's website or contact [email protected]. 

New York's Commitment to Water Quality
New York State continues to increase its nation-leading investments in water infrastructure. With $500 million allocated for clean water infrastructure in the recently Enacted 2025-26 State Budget, New York will have invested a record $6 billion in water infrastructure since 2017.

Initiatives in Governor Hochul's State of the State are also ensuring ongoing coordination with local governments and helping communities to leverage these investments. Governor Hochul announced $435 million in grants to 102 projects in November, featuring increased awards for wastewater projects for smaller, disadvantaged communities. The Governor also expanded the State Environmental Facilities Corporation's (EFC) Community Assistance Teams to help small, rural and disadvantaged communities leverage this funding and address their clean water infrastructure needs. Any community needing assistance with water infrastructure projects is encouraged to contact EFC.