Editing Philadelphia Water Supply (section)

== Source Waters ==

The Delaware River provides the majority of Philadelphia's water supply, with intake facilities drawing water that is then pumped to treatment plants. The river's large volume and relatively consistent flow provide reliable supply even during drought conditions. However, the Delaware also receives upstream discharges that can affect water quality, requiring treatment to address various contaminants.<ref name="pwd"/>

The Schuylkill River provides additional supply, particularly for western portions of the distribution system. The smaller river presents different water quality characteristics than the Delaware, with greater variability in quality based on upstream conditions. Treatment processes are adjusted based on source water conditions.<ref name="pwd"/>

Source water protection efforts address pollution and development in the watersheds that affect water quality reaching treatment plants. Philadelphia participates in regional efforts to reduce pollution in both river basins, recognizing that source water quality affects treatment requirements and costs. These efforts extend well beyond city boundaries into upstream areas.<ref name="pwd"/>