Water Resources Research Act Program

Details for Project ID 2002VI5B

Environmental Influences on Cistern Water Quality

Institute: Virgin Islands
Year Established: 2002 Start Date: 2002-03-01 End Date: 2003-02-28
Total Federal Funds: $19,700 Total Non-Federal Funds: Not available

Principal Investigators: Henry Smith

Project Summary: The topography in the United States Virgin Islands makes distribution of water through a conventional pipeline distribution system difficult. Homes are required by law to collect rainwater using roof catchments and store the water in large holding chambers. These cisterns are often not properly sealed and are susceptible to contamination from several different sources. Cistern water contamination poses a significant health risk for all consumers. The problems become exacerbated during periods of drought. Low water levels result in higher microbial concentrations and cause adverse short-term health effects, such as diarrhea, cramps, nausea, headaches and other symptoms. Cistern water supplies are not true public water supplies and water quality regulations do not apply. This study will assess risks of contamination of these supplies and assess the quality of water found in these systems. These findings will provide information that will be useful in improving guidelines for the use of these water supply systems.