According to federal and state laws, how often must bacteriological samples be obtained from water supplies?

Bacteriological samples from water supplies are typically required to be collected every month in order to ensure the safety and quality of public drinking water. Regular monitoring is crucial because it helps detect any potential contamination that could lead to health risks. Monthly sampling allows for timely identification of harmful bacteria, such as E. coli and coliforms, enabling swift action to address any issues, thereby protecting public health.

While other frequencies such as weekly, every three months, or annually might seem reasonable, they do not provide the level of surveillance necessary to safeguard against potential waterborne pathogens effectively. Monthly sampling strikes a balance between being frequent enough to catch problems early and manageable in terms of resource allocation for water utilities.