Small Water System Security Program Award

This award program recognizes public water systems (PWS) that serve 3,300 or fewer persons and have developed and implemented enhanced security measures.

Public Drinking Water Recognition Application Form

Criteria

To receive this award, the PWS must meet these criteria:

• Has attended a security training within the last 12 months. Training can be from FEMA, EPA, TCEQ, TDEM, TEEX, TRWA, or a recognized entity that provides training on security topics. Topics can include: Cybersecurity, Homeland Security, NIMS ICS, Recovery for Public Works, and Disaster Management for Public Services. Free trainings are listed at:
  • https://www.preparingtexas.org/TrainingCatalog.aspx
  • https://www.epa.gov/water-research/small-systems-monthly-webinar-series
  • Please submit a copy of the certificate for verification purposes.
• Has developed and incorporated measures to improve the security of their drinking water system such as installing cameras, motion sensors, improved lighting, an emergency alert system, coordinated with local law enforcement or a neighborhood watch group to improve the security of your water system. Submit photos or name, title, and contact information of individual who can confirm security measures.
• Is enrolled in TxWARN (the Texas Water/Wastewater Agency Response Network). We encourage water systems to enroll in as many of the free mutual aid networks as possible, but a PWS must be enrolled in TxWARN to be considered for this award. Submit documentation demonstrating registration with TxWARN. This is a free service.
• The PWS has had no violations of the primary drinking water standards, enforcement actions, or unresolved violations from the TCEQ Water Supply Division or from the TCEQ Office of Compliance and Enforcement during the recognition calendar year.
• PWS has not received this award in the last two years.

How can my PWS become eligible for this award?

Start by reviewing the Criteria and submitting documentation to support each Criterion, contact our Emergency Preparedness and Response staff and ask to speak to the Public Drinking Water Awards Recognition Program manager. 

Previous Award Recipients

Also, if your PWS hasn’t joined TxWARN , enroll now!