Charleston, WV (WOAY) A new analysis from researchers at Yale University and the University of Massachusetts is raising concerns about drinking water protections in West Virginia.
The study found that 65% of Charleston’s drinking water supply comes from streams that are no longer protected under the federal Clean Water Act following a 2023 U.S. Supreme Court ruling.
Environmental groups say many of the affected headwater streams feed into the Elk River and play a critical role in maintaining downstream water quality.
Researchers warn that pollution in those streams could eventually impact drinking water supplies and increase treatment costs.
The Environmental Protection Agency is currently developing new rules that could further determine which streams and wetlands receive federal protection.
West Virginia’s drinking water infrastructure was recently rated a D+ by the American Society of Civil Engineers due to challenges including aging systems, leaky distribution pipes, and a funding gap of nearly $1 billion.
Check out WVrivers.org for more information on this study.
