America’s Water Infrastructure Act

America’s Water Infrastructure Act (AWIA) requires states agencies to notify the drinking water primacy agency or community water systems of any reportable chemical releases. Reportable chemical releases fall under the Emergency Planning and Community Right-To-Know Act (EPCRA) extremely hazardous substances (EHS) or a Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA) hazardous substance (see EPA List of Lists for chemical classification). The water agencies are contacted for chemical releases that potentially affects their source water.

Based on the chemical release information, water systems can determine if water intakes need to be shut down or public water advisories sent out.

Water agencies may also request access to EPCRA Tier II chemical storage information for surrounding facilities that may impact their water systems. Access to chemical storage information aids water facilities to proactively plan and have procedures in place for accidental releases in their community. EPCRA Tier II chemical storage information may be collected from the Local Emergency Planning Committee or by contacting the North Carolina Emergency Management EPCRA Coordinator. EPCRA@ncdps.gov

Notifications

North Carolina Emergency Management is notified through the NC Emergency Operations Center, 800-858-0368 of chemical releases in waterways. The notification is sent to North Carolina Division of Environmental Quality (NCDEQ) Division of Water Resources (DWR), who contact the drinking water primary agency or community water system if a drinking water source is impacted by the chemical release.

Additional Resources

NCEM Water and Wastewater Chemical Reporting Guide  – A summary of reporting, regulatory requirements, and resources for water facilities.

EPA America's Water Infrastructure Act – Current ruling, risk and resiliency assessment information, grant programs and upcoming action.

EPA RMP Guide for Wastewater Treatment Plants – Risk Management Program compliance guidance for wastewater treatment plants, publicly owned treatment works and other industrial treatment systems.

ARPA State Fiscal Recovery Fund Allocations – Funding opportunities for investments in water and sewer infrastructure. May include funding to special-purpose districts.