Checklist 3: Surface Water Assessment

1. Source Identification

☐ Surface water source identified

The source should be clearly defined, such as a river, lake, reservoir, or impoundment, including its catchment area and hydrological characteristics.

2. Water Availability

☐ Long-term water quantity evaluated

Available water volumes should be assessed under normal conditions, seasonal variations, and drought scenarios to ensure reliable supply.

3. Water Quality

☐ Raw water quality analyzed

Physical, chemical, and microbiological parameters should be evaluated to determine treatment requirements and operational risks.

4. Pollution Risks

☐ Potential contamination sources identified

Agricultural activities, wastewater discharges, industrial operations, and urban runoff should be assessed as potential threats to water quality.

5. Treatment Requirements

☐ Required treatment processes determined

Surface water often requires more extensive treatment than groundwater, including filtration, disinfection, and additional contaminant removal processes.

6. Seasonal Variability

☐ Seasonal water quality changes evaluated

Parameters such as turbidity, algae growth, temperature, and organic matter concentrations may vary significantly throughout the year.

7. Infrastructure Requirements

☐ Intake structures evaluated

Water intake systems should be designed to operate safely under varying water levels and environmental conditions.

8. Source Protection

☐ Catchment protection measures assessed

Protecting the watershed helps reduce contamination risks, improve raw water quality, and lower long-term treatment costs.