Open AccessEconomic and Financial Management Capacity of Small Water Systems
Author(s) -
Maras Jim
Publication year - 2004
Publication title -
journal of contemporary water research and education
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
eISSN - 1936-704X
pISSN - 1936-7031
DOI - 10.1111/j.1936-704x.2004.mp128001006.x
Subject(s) - citation , service (business) , full service , library science , sociology , finance , business , management , computer science , economics , marketing , commerce
mall communities—those with a population less than 3,300—and the small water systems they operate are an important part of the quality of life enjoyed in rural America. In many cases, economic opportunities in rural areas are also connected to the availability of water from these small systems. Small water systems serve a low percentage (13.5%) of the total population, but they comprise the majority (95%) of the water systems operating in the United States. It is important to understand the need for "capacity" and the challenges the very small systems face in operating and maintaining compliance with increasing standards. Small systems face unique challenges in developing sustainability. Locating affordable funding, retaining certified operators, complying with regulatory standards, engaging local leadership, accessing training and technology, meeting unattainable mandates, and finding a community meeting place are just some of the challenges. In this article, I present some inherent barriers built into small water systems and some goals for consideration in overcoming these challenges. Technical, Financial, and Managerial Capacity (TFM)