Reference Manual - 83A 

PUBLIC HEALTH: 

Protection and Prevention 

Approved: 

Louis Rowe Acting Associate Director, Visitor and Resource Protection 
National Park Service

U.S. Department of the Interior

National Park Service

Reference Manual 83A

Public Health: Protection and 

Prevention

RM-83A

2019
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Table of Contents 

CHAPTER DRINKING WATER 

CHAPTER WASTEWATER TREATMENT SYSTEMS 

CHAPTER FOOD SAFETY 

CHAPTER RECREATIONAL WATER 

CHAPTER BACKCOUNTRY OPERATIONS 

CHAPTER DISEASE MONITORING, SURVEILLANCE AND RESPONSE 

CHAPTER COMMISSIONED CORPS SUPPORT FOR ALL HAZARDS INCIDENT 

AND EVENT MANAGEMENT 

CHAPTER SANCTIONED PUBLIC CONTACT WITH ANIMALS
REFERENCE MANUAL 83A 

CHAPTER 1 

DRINKING WATER 

TABLE OF CONTENTS: 

1.0 DRINKING WATER POLICY............................................................................................1

2.0 WATER SYSTEM CLASSIFICATIONS............................................................................1

3.0 BACTERIOLOGICAL MONITORING ..............................................................................2

4.0 CHEMICAL MONITORING...............................................................................................5

5.0 LEAD AND COPPER..........................................................................................................8

6.0 RADIONUCLIDES ............................................................................................................10

7.0 WATER TREATMENT.....................................................................................................10

8.0 OPERATOR REQUIREMENTS........................................................................................16

9.0 CROSS CONNECTION CONTROL.................................................................................16

10.0 POTABLE WATER HAULING ........................................................................................18

11.0 REPORTS AND RECORDS RETENTION ......................................................................19

12.0 WATER CONSERVATION ..............................................................................................19

13.0 PAYMENT OF FEES FOR SERVICE ..............................................................................19

14.0 PUBLIC NOTIFICATION.................................................................................................20

15.0 PLAN REVIEW AND APPROVAL..................................................................................20

16.0 OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE PLAN ..................................................................20

17.0 POTABLE WATER FOR BACKCOUNTRY OPERATIONS .........................................20

18.0 CONSUMER CONFIDENCE REPORTS .........................................................................20

19.0 DRINKING WATER SECURITY AND EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS ..................20

20.0 PROTECT SOURCES OF DRINKING WATER..............................................................21

21.0 NATIONAL PRIMARY DRINKING WATER STANDARDS........................................22

22.0 NATIONAL SECONDARY DRINKING WATER REGULATIONS .............................22

LIST TABLES: 

TABLE 1.0 NPS – TOTAL COLIFORM SAMPLE REQUIREMENT FOR PUBLIC WATER

SYSTEMS....................................................................................................................................... 3

TABLE 2.0 LEAD AND COPPER TAP AND WQP TAP MONITORING (DOES NOT APPLY 

TO EPTDS WQP MONITORING.)............................................................................................... 9

TABLE 2.1 CRITERIA FOR REDUCED Pb/Cu TAP MONITORING ........................................10

TABLE 3.0 SUMMARY OF BACKFLOW PREVENTION ASSEMBLY APPLICATIONS* 17

TABLE 4.0 GENERAL MINERALS*......................................................................................... 23

TABLE 5.0 SUMMARY OF PARAMETERS AND TESTING REGIME................................. 24

APPENDICES: 

APPENDIX 1.0 GLOSSARY OF COMMONLY USED TERMS....................................25 

APPENDIX 2.0 FREQUENTLY USED ABBREVIATIONS AND ACRONYMS................29 

APPENDIX 3.0 TABLE OF SECONDARY DRINKING WATER STANDARDS ..............31

APPENDIX 4.0 DRINKING WATER MONITORING WAIVER APPLICATION .............32

APPENDIX 5.0 DRINKING WATER EXAMPLE SITE SAMPLING PLAN ....................34 

APPENDIX 6.0 GENERAL START-UP AND SHUT-DOWN CHECKLISTS.....................43

APPENDIX 7.0 TEMPLATE POLICY - BACKFLOW AND CROSS-CONNECTIONS.........45
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

DRINKING WATER POLICY

1.1 National Park Service (NPS) unit managers will reduce the risk of waterborne diseases and

provide safe drinking water to employees, the visiting public, and park partners by

ensuring that drinking water systems are properly operated, maintained, monitored, and 

deficiencies promptly corrected.

1.2 The NPS Office of Public Health (OPH) will assist in providing safe drinking water by

conducting a survey of drinking water systems condition, operation and maintenance. The

survey is part of a larger onsite assessment classified by NPS OPH as a public health

assessment (PHA).

1.3 Policy Compliance -- Safe (Potable) drinking water systems will be regulated in

accordance with:

• the Safe Drinking Water Act, as amended (42 U.S.C. 300f1 et seq.)

• the Primacy Agency (e.g. the agency designated by Federal law as having

oversight responsibility) requirements, 

• this NPS drinking water system policy, whichever is most stringent. Any

waivers to this policy must be approved by the NPS OPH Director by

completing the form in Appendix 4.0.

Note: If hyperlinks in this document are inactive, please contact your local public health 

consultant (PHC)2. For additional information and reference, the United States Environmental 

Protection Agency (USEPA) has developed Drinking Water Rule Quick Reference Guides.

3

2.0 WATER SYSTEM CLASSIFICATIONS 

Water systems are defined as follows or as specified by any changes made in the Safe Drinking

Water Act:

2.1 Public Water System (PWS): A system that, “provides water for human 

consumption through pipes or other constructed conveyances to at least 15 service

connections or serves an average of at least 25 people for at least 60 days a year. A

public water system may be publicly or privately owned.”

2.2 Community Water System (CWS): A public water system that supplies water to the

same population year-round. 

2.3 Non-Transient Non-Community Water System (NTNC): A public water system 

that regularly supplies water to at least 25 of the same people at least six months per

year. Examples: Systems serving facilities such as schools or non-residential work 

1 https://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/USCODE-2014-title42/pdf/USCODE-2014-title42-chap6A-subchapXII.pdf

Accessed on 6/18/2019 2 http://www.nps.gov/public_health/ Accessed on 6/18/2019

3 http://www.epa.gov/dwreginfo/drinking-water-rule-quick-reference-guides Accessed on 6/18/2019

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sites where the same people use the water on a regular basis.

2.4 Transient Non-Community Water System (TNC): Any public water system that 

serves at least 25 persons per day at least 60 days out of the year. Examples: systems

serving campgrounds or other non-residential uses, where people do not remain for

long periods of time.

2.5 Non-Public Water Systems (NP): A water system that does meet one of the above 

definitions of a public water system. This type of system has less than 15 service

connections, or serves less than 25 persons per day on average. Examples could 

include systems serving ranger stations, individual residences and small campgrounds. 

The NPS requires NPS managers to follow EPA Drinking Water Standards for

individual and/or non-public systems to ensure the health risks associated with

contaminants are minimized for all systems.

3.0 PATHOGEN MONITORING 

Bacteriological and chemical sampling will be performed in accordance with Federal, State and

local laws/regulations along with NPS requirements. All water samples will be tested in

laboratories certified by the Primacy Agency. The Total Coliform Rule (TCR) and the Revised 

Total Coliform Rule (RTCR) (effective April 1, 2016) provide details regarding bacteriological 

monitoring. Additional information can be found in the following links: 

• National Primary Drinking Water Regulations RTCR4

• RTCR History5

• TCR/RTCR comparison6

If there are positive samples, refer to the RTCR for public notification requirements and for

water system review requirements.

3.1 Number and Frequency of Samples:

3.1.1 Community Water Systems [CWS]: One sample per month, minimum, or as per

Table 1. Samples must be taken at equally spaced intervals each month. 

3.1.2 Non-Community Water Systems [NTNC & TNC]: One sample per month, 

minimum, or as per Table 1. Samples must be taken at equally spaced intervals each

month. 

3.1.3 Non-Public Water Systems [NP]: One sample per month. The sampling

frequency may be changed if authorized in writing by the public health consultant. 

Authorization to reduce sampling will only be given after a complete sanitary survey and 

review of the operational records indicates that reducing the sampling frequency would 

not result in an increased public health risk to end-users. 

4 https://www.federalregister.gov/articles/2014/02/26/2014-04173/national-primary-drinking-waterregulations-minor-corrections-to-the-revisions-to-the-total-coliform Accessed on 6/18/2019

5 http://www.epa.gov/dwreginfo/revised-total-coliform-rule-and-total-coliform-rule#rule-history Accessed on

6/18/2019

6 https://www.epa.gov/dwreginfo/revised-total-coliform-rule-and-total-coliform-rule Accessed on 4/29/2019

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TABLE 1.0 NPS – TOTAL COLIFORM SAMPLE REQUIREMENT FOR PUBLIC 

WATER SYSTEMS 

Population Served Minimum Number of 

Samples per Month 

Population Served Minimum Number of 

Samples per Month 

0 to 1,000 1 8,501 to 12,900 10

1,001 to 2,500 2 12,901 to 17,200 15

2,501 to 3,300 3 17,201 to 21,500 20

3,301 to 4,100 4 21,501 to 25,000 25

4,101 to 4,900 5 25,001 to 33,000 30

4,901 to 5,800 6 33,001 to 41,000 40

5,801 to 6,700 7 41,001 to 50,000 50

6,701 to 7,600 8 50,001 to 59,000 60

7,601 to 8,500 9 For populations > 59,000 see7 (pg 10361)

The population served (p) is defined as the sum of the residents (r) and the average daily

transient population (total number of transients (t) served per month divided by the number of

days (d) of the month during which the transients were served), i.e., p = r + t/d. (If the transient 

population changes significantly from month to month, utilize information from previous years

of operation to calculate the average daily transient population for the current month). If there

are questions regarding the transient population served consult with the primacy agency and 

PHC.

Note: the local, State or County jurisdiction may require an increased sampling protocol based 

on local regulations or a record of poor test results. 

3.2 Special Sampling Requirements:

3.2.1 Seasonal systems: Seasonal systems must obtain two consecutive, negative 

samples prior to utilization of the system. Samples may be collected on the same day, but

not at the same time and must be collected at different sampling sites according to the

site-sampling plan, if applicable. Example shut-down and start-up guides are located in 

appendix 6.0 and on the NPS OPH website8

. Also the RTCR requires that the primacy 

agency establishes a start-up procedure. Therefore, if the primacy agency has a start-up 

procedure that is required, utilize that and provide a copy to your PHC. Propylene glycol

or other anti-freeze type liquids are not allowed unless approved through waiver process 

through regional PHC. 

7 https://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/FR-2013-02-13/pdf/2012-31205.pdf Accessed on 6/18/2019

8 https://sites.google.com/a/nps.gov/in2-protect-and-promote-health/home/drinking-water

Accessed on 6/18/2019 Page 3 of 52
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3.2.2 Source water monitoring: Some Primacy Agencies require periodic source (raw) 

water monitoring. Sampling of source water must be in accordance with the Primacy

Agency requirements.

3.2.3 Municipal supplies: National Park Service operated distribution systems serviced

by municipal systems should be included in the municipality’s bacteriological sampling

programs whenever feasible. When the municipality does not monitor a distribution 

system, the PHC should be contacted to determine if and when the system requires

sampling.

3.3 Site-sampling plan: Each system must have a written site-sampling plan (examples9,10)

available for review by the Primacy Agency, and/or the PHC. All bacteriological samples 

must be collected from identified sampling sites. An example plan can be found in

appendix 5.0 or the NPS OPH website at: https://sites.google.com/a/nps.gov/in2-protectand-promote-health/home/drinking-water. If links are inactive, please conduct a search 

in your web browser for, National Park Service Office of Public Health Drinking Water. 

3.4 Positive samples: All positive total coliform samples require that the system operator

obtain repeat samples in accordance with the Primacy Agency and, at a minimum, the 

following:

3.4.1 Public systems: Three repeat samples must be collected within 24 hours of

laboratory notification of the positive result. (See Ground Water Rule (GWR) and RTCR 

for details on resampling and contact your PHC. Details can be found on page 17 &18 of 

40 CFR Parts 141 and 14211.) NOTE: This includes public non-community systems.

3.4.2 Non-public systems: Two repeat samples must be collected and analyzed. One 

sample must be collected at the site of the positive sample. If possible, three samples

should be collected, one at the positive sample location, one upstream, and one

downstream. For example: on a residential system, one should be taken inside the

residence and one should be taken outside the residence. Notify your PHC of initial 

positive and repeat samples results upon discovery. 

3.5 Non-compliance - Public Systems: If any repeat samples are positive (TC+), the park 

must notify the Primacy Agency and the PHC within 24 hours following receipt of

notification of sample results. The Primacy Agency and the PHC must be contacted for

assistance in determining the source of the contamination and in implementing corrective

actions. 

3.6 Non-compliance - Non-Public Systems: If any repeat samples are positive (TC+), the 

park must notify the PHC within 24 hours following receipt of notification of sample

results. The PHC must be contacted for assistance in determining the source of the

contamination and in implementing corrective actions. 

9 http://www2.epa.gov/sites/production/files/2015-04/documents/rtcr_siting_plan_template.pdf Accessed on 6/18/2019

10 https://sites.google.com/a/nps.gov/in2-protect-and-promote-health/home/drinking-water Accessed on 6/18/2019 11 https://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/FR-2013-02-13/pdf/2012-31205.pdf Accessed on 6/18/2019

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4.0 CHEMICAL MONITORING 

Monitoring requirements are as shown in Table 5: Summary of Parameters and Testing Regime. 

Test results will be submitted to the Primacy Agency and PHC upon receipt. There are several

federal rules, and state primacy agencies may establish additional monitoring requirements. 

Many of the rules are described below and in Table 5, however verify your particular sampling

requirements with the Primacy Agency. Many states follow 40 CFR 141.23 – “Inorganic

chemical sampling and analytical requirements” monitoring as listed below:

• Groundwater systems must take a minimum of one sample at every entry point to the

distribution system, which is representative of each well after treatment (hereafter

called a sampling point) beginning in the initial compliance period. The system must

take each sample at the same sampling point unless conditions make another sampling 

point more representative of each source or treatment plant.

• Surface water systems must take a minimum of one sample at every entry point to the

distribution system after any application of treatment or in the distribution system at a

point, which is representative of each source after treatment (hereafter called a

sampling point) beginning in the initial compliance period. The system must take

each sample at the same sampling point unless conditions make another sampling

point more representative of each source or treatment plant.

The EPA National Primary Drinking Water Regulations must be met for drinking water systems. 

Details about contaminants12 can be found on Fact Sheets13 developed by the EPA. 

4.1 Primary inorganics, secondary contaminants, and general minerals: Primary inorganic, 

secondary contaminants, and general mineral analyses must be conducted to meet

regulatory requirements and/or to determine the most feasible treatment methodologies 

to provide water of satisfactory quality. Samples must be collected from the source 

before treatment. NOTE – Nitrates are required annually for all sources. Disinfection 

byproduct sampling is performed at locations within the distribution system, post 

treatment.

For more information on inorganic chemicals, specific rule information, compliance 

dates, and regulatory updates, see EPA Drinking Water contaminants and standards14. 

4.2 Organics:

4.2.1 Pesticides, Herbicides & Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCB)'s: All systems with

community and non-transient users must be sampled annually unless a State or Primacy

Agency waiver has been issued. All transient non-community and non-public systems

must be sampled one time. Additional sampling requirements are dependent upon the

12 http://www.epa.gov/dwstandardsregulations Accessed on 6/18/2019

13 https://safewater.zendesk.com/hc/en-us/categories/201454937 Accessed on 6/18/2019 14 https://safewater.zendesk.com/hc/en-us/categories/201454957 Accessed on 6/18/2019

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initial sampling results and source vulnerability. Samples should be collected after

treatment and prior to entry to the distribution system.

4.2.2 Volatile Organic Chemicals (VOC): There are fifty-five VOC's that have 

Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL's) (regulated or unregulated) that must be analyzed. 

Samples should be collected after treatment and prior to entry to the distribution system.

4.2.2.1 Groundwater Supplies. Public community and public non-transient noncommunity systems served by groundwater supplies should have collected a

sample from each entry point to the distribution system for an initial analysis by

December 1990. A single routine sample must be collected at three-year

intervals thereafter, unless the Primacy Agency has issued a waiver.

4.2.2.2 Surface Water Systems. The initial sampling for public community and

public non-transient non-community systems served by surface sources consists 

of four quarterly samples to be collected over a one-year period. The first sample 

should have been collected by December 1990. Sampling must be repeated at 

three-year intervals thereafter, unless the Primacy Agency has issued a waiver.

4.2.3 All Other Public Systems (ground or surface water). These systems should be 

sampled one time for baseline information. Contact the PHC for additional information 

and guidance.

4.2.4 Non-public Systems. These systems should be sampled in special situations only. 

Contact the PHC for additional information and guidance. 

For more information on organic chemicals, specific rule information, contaminant 

candidate lists, compliance dates, and regulatory updates, search EPA Drinking Water 

contaminants and standards15. 

Note: If the primacy agency grants a waiver for organic chemical monitoring for a 

public system, the PHC may also grant a waiver for those non-public systems not 

regulated by the State but lie within the same aquifer. 

4.3 Disinfectants/Disinfection Byproducts: This rule is intended to balance the use of

disinfectants with the potential health effects from long term exposure to byproducts

formed by the reaction of disinfectants with natural organic and inorganic matter in 

drinking water.

4.3.1 This rule applies to all community and non-transient non-community water

systems that add a chemical disinfectant to the water in any part of the treatment process.

This includes surface water systems, groundwater systems under the direct influence of

surface water, and groundwater systems.

4.3.2 Surface Water and Ground Water Under the Direct Influence of Surface Water:

15 https://safewater.zendesk.com/hc/en-us/categories/201454957 Accessed on 6/18/2019

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All surface water sources and any groundwater sources under the direct influence

(GWUDI) of surface water, as determined by the Primacy Agency for public systems will 

be provided with approved treatment processes. Non-public surface water sources and

groundwater sources under the direct influence of (GWUDI) surface water, as determined 

by the PHC, will be provided with approved treatment process. For additional detail see

EPA GWUDI regulations.

4.3.3 Byproducts to be monitored:

• Total trihalomethanes (TTHM): The sum of chloroform, bromoform,

bromodichloromethane, and dibromochloromethane.

• Haloacetic acids (HAA5): The sum of monochloroacetic acid, dichloroacetic acid,

trichloroacetic acid, monobromoacetic acid, and dibromoacetic acid.

• Bromate: For those systems using ozone for disinfection.

• Chlorite: For those systems using chlorine dioxide for disinfection.

4.3.4 Residual Disinfectants to be monitored:

• Chlorine: for those systems using chlorine.

• Chloramine: for those systems using chloramine.

• Chlorine dioxide: for those systems using chlorine dioxide.

4.3.5 Monitoring requirements: Community and Non-Transient Non-Community

water systems. Sample GWUDI sources with the same frequency as

surface water sources. 

• Large surface water systems (>10,000 persons/day): monitor 4 samples/plant/quarter

for TTHMs and HAA5’s.

• Small surface water systems (<10,000 persons/day): monitor 1 sample/plant/quarter

for TTHMs and HAA5’s.

• Very small surface water systems - serving less than 500 people each day:

monitor 1 sample/plant/year for TTHMs and HAA5s. 

• Large ground water systems - serving more than 10,000 people each day:

monitor 1 sample/plant/quarter for TTHMs and HAA5s. 

• Small ground water systems - serving less than 10,000 people each day:

monitor 1 sample/plant/year for TTHMs and HAA5s. 

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4.3.6 Monitoring requirements: For transient and non-public water systems (also refer

to section 7.3 in this document). 

• Transient surface water and ground water systems: As required by PHC.*

• Non-public surface water and ground water systems: As required by PHC.*

*Note: Additional monitoring may be requested based on scientific reasoning to include water 

source type, contact time, total organic carbon (TOC) concentrations, past testing results, and/or 

other water quality factors. 

4.4 Chemical Monitoring Waivers

Potable drinking water systems connected to municipal supplies are not required to 

perform chemical monitoring if current analyses for the area are available from the 

municipality. If current analyses are not available, the Park may be directed by the PHC

to perform the analyses.

The monitoring requirements in this section may be waived for non-public and/or

unregulated systems if authorized, in writing, by the PHC. This authorization will only be

given after a complete sanitary survey of the system and review of the operational records

indicates a reduced sampling frequency or waiver would not increase risk to end-users. 

For specific rule information, compliance dates, and regulatory updates, go to:

EPA Chemical Contaminant Rules16

5.0 LEAD AND COPPER 

On June 7, 1991, final national primary drinking water regulations for lead and copper were

adopted for public-community and public non-transient non-community water systems. The rule 

establishes maximum contaminant level goals (MCLG), and action levels for both lead and 

copper. It also sets forth treatment technique requirements and specifies monitoring

requirements, analytical methods, public notification requirements, record keeping and reporting

requirements, and compliance schedules. An EPA public education program is also required if

an action level is exceeded. All community water systems (CWS) and non-transient noncommunity (NTNC) water systems are subject to the Lead and Copper Rule (LCR)17. 

To comply with the rule and in order to assess for and reduce the health risks associated with 

lead and copper, parks will:

5.1 Surveillance for All NPS Water Systems:

5.1.2 All CWSs and NTNCs must collect first-draw samples at taps in homes/buildings

16 http://www.epa.gov/dwreginfo/chemical-contaminant-rules Accessed on 6/18/2019

17 http://www.epa.gov/dwreginfo/lead-and-copper-rule Accessed on 6/18/2019

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that are at high risk of Lead (Pb)/ Copper(Cu) contamination as identified in the Code of

Federal Regulations (40 CFR 141.86(a)). If parks have not completed this, it should be

conducted immediately. 

5.1.3 All non-public water systems should take first draw tap samples (one liter) at each

Park Service owned non-public system and have them analyzed for lead and copper. If

one or more first draw tap samples are elevated for lead or copper (>0.015 mg/l, >1.3 

mg/l respectively), contact your PHC for further directives.

5.1.4 Assure that lead solder or flux is no longer used in domestic water plumbing. 

5.1.5 Replace drinking fountains listed by EPA under the Lead Contamination Control

Act.

5.2 Monitoring:

5.2.1 All CWSs and NTNCs must collect the number of samples as shown in Table 2.0 

and 2.1 below, and systems must conduct monitoring every six months unless they 

qualify for reduced monitoring (Table 2.1). Water quality parameter (WQP) samples at 

entry points to distribution system (EPTDS) are collected every 6 months prior to any 

corrosion control treatment. 

5.2.2 For TNC and Non-public systems, NPS operators should contact their regional 

PHC for directives on Pb and Cu monitoring.

5.2.3 Regional PHCs cannot contradict the primacy agency.

TABLE 2.0 LEAD AND COPPER TAP AND WQP TAP MONITORING (DOES NOT 

APPLY TO EPTDS WQP MONITORING.)18 

Size

Category

System Size

(People)

Number of Pb/Cu Tap Sample 

Sites3

Number of WQP Tap Sample Sites4

Standard Reduced Standard Reduced

Large

Medium

> 100K 100 50 25 10

50,001 - 100K 60 30 10 7

10,001 - 50K 60 30 10 7

3,301 - 10K 40 20 3 3

Small

501 - 3,300 20 10 2 2

101 - 500 10 5 1 1

≤ 100 5 5 1 1

3 With written State approval, PWSs can collect < 5 samples if all taps used for human consumption are 

sampled. 

4 Two WQP tap samples are collected at each sampling site. 

18 http://nepis.epa.gov/Exe/ZyPDF.cgi?Dockey=60001N8P.txt Accessed on 6/18/2019

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TABLE 2.1 CRITERIA FOR REDUCED Pb/Cu TAP MONITORING 

Annual 1 PWS serves ≤ 50,000 people and is ≤ both established action levels(ALs) for 2 consecutive 6-

month monitoring periods; or

2 Any PWS that meets optimal WQPs (OWQPs) and is ≤ Pb AL for 2 consecutive 6-month 

monitoring periods.

Triennial 1. PWS serves ≤ 50,000 people and is ≤ both ALs for 3 consecutive years of monitoring; or

2. Any PWS that meets OWQP specifications and is ≤ Pb AL for 3 consecutive years of

monitoring; or

3. Any PWS with 90th percentile Pb and Cu levels ≤ 0.005 mg/L and ≤ 0.65 mg/L,

respectively, for 2 consecutive 6-month monitoring periods (i.e., accelerated reduced

Every 9

years

PWS serves ≤ 3,300 people and meets monitoring waiver criteria found at 40 CFR 141.86(g).

6.0 RADIONUCLIDES19 

In 2000, EPA revised the radionuclides regulation20, which had been in effect since 

1977. The revisions required new monitoring provisions to ensure that all customers of 

community water systems will receive water that meets the Maximum Contaminant

Levels for radionuclides in drinking water. EPA also issued a standard for uranium, as 

required by the 1986 amendments to the Safe Drinking Water Act. The current standards 

are: combined radium 226/228 of 5 pCi/L; a gross alpha standard for all alphas of 15 

pCi/L (not including radon and uranium); a combined standard of 4 mrem/year for beta 

emitters. The new MCL for uranium is 30 μg/L. Radionuclide sample should be taken

before treatment. 

Community water systems (CWSs), are required to meet the final MCLs and to meet the

requirements for monitoring and reporting. 

Non-transient, non-community water systems (NTNCWSs) with a ground water source 

will be tested one time, unless waived by the PHC. 

For transient non-community (TNC) and non-public (NP) systems, NPS operators should 

contact their regional PHC for directives on radionuclides testing. 

7.0 WATER TREATMENT 

7.1 Filtration:

7.1.1 All surface water21 sources and any groundwater sources under the direct

influence of surface water must be provided with approved filtration.

7.1.2 Compliance schedule for provision of filtration: For groundwater supplies that are

determined to be under the influence of surface water, filtration must be in place and

operational 18 months after the Primacy Agency officially issues the determination. 

7.1.3 Parks with groundwater sources clearly under the direct influence of surface water

should contact the PHC for assistance in developing a schedule to provide filtration or

developing a new groundwater source.

19 http://www.epa.gov/radiation/radionuclides Accessed on 6/18/2019

20 http://www.epa.gov/dwreginfo/radionuclides-rule Accessed on 6/18/2019 21 https://www.epa.gov/sites/production/files/documents/SWTR_Fact_Sheet.pdf Accessed on 6/18/2019

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7.1.4 In those cases where it is not certain if a groundwater source is under the

influence of surface water, parks should be aware that the criteria for making such 

determinations have not been developed by all Primacy Agencies. When these criteria 

are developed, parks should contact the PHC for assistance in developing and initiating a

modification schedule. Microscopic Particulate Analysis (MPA) can be used to help

assess whether a groundwater source is under the direct influence (GWUDI) of surface

water.

7.1.5 On December 16, 1998, the EPA finalized an Interim Enhanced Surface Water

Treatment Rule (IESWT)22, which became effective February 16, 1999. This rule is

intended to improve control of microbial pathogens, including specifically the protozoan 

Cryptosporidium, by enhancing physical removal efficiencies in drinking water, and

addresses risk trade-offs with disinfection byproducts. 

7.1.6 In January 2004, the EPA Long Term 1 Enhanced Surface Water Treatment Rule

(LT1ESWTR) became effective. This rule follows the IESWTR and regulates systems of

less than 10,000 people. This rule includes the compliance with Stage 1 

Disinfectants/Disinfection Byproducts Rule. These new rules affect public and nonpublic surface water treatment plants, including ground water systems under the influence

of surface water.

7.1.7 In December 2005, the EPA Long Term 2 Enhanced Surface Water Treatment

Rule (LT2ESWTR)23 and the Stage 2 Disinfection Byproduct Rule24 became effective.

The Long Term 2 Enhanced Surface Water Treatment Rule and the Stage 2 Disinfection

Byproducts Rule are the second phase of rules required by Congress. These rules

strengthen protection against microbial contaminants, especially Cryptosporidium, and at

the same time, reduce potential health risks of disinfection byproducts. The new

regulations apply to public water systems that use surface water or ground water under

the influence of surface water.

Under the LT2ESWTR, systems will monitor their water sources to determine treatment 

requirements. This monitoring includes an initial two years of monthly sampling for

Cryptosporidium. To reduce monitoring costs, small filtered water systems will first 

monitor for E. coli—bacterium which is less expensive to analyze than

Cryptosporidium—and will monitor for Cryptosporidium only if their E. coli results 

exceed specified concentration levels.

Monitoring start dates are staggered by system size, with larger systems being monitored 

before smaller systems. Systems must conduct a second round of monitoring six years

after completing the initial round to determine if source water conditions have changed 

significantly. Systems may use (grandfather) previously collected data in lieu of

22 https://www.epa.gov/dwreginfo/implementation-guidance-appendices-surface-water-treatment-rules Accessed on 

6/18/2019

23 https://www.epa.gov/dwreginfo/long-term-2-enhanced-surface-water-treatment-rule-documents 6/18/2019

24 http://www.epa.gov/dwreginfo/stage-1-and-stage-2-disinfectants-and-disinfection-byproducts-rules 6/18/2019

Page 11 of 52
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

conducting new monitoring, and systems are not required to monitor if they provide the 

maximum level of treatment required under the rule.

Cryptosporidium treatment: Filtered water systems will be classified in one of four

treatment categories (bins) based on their monitoring results. The majority of systems 

will be classified in the lowest treatment bin, which carries no additional treatment

requirements. Systems classified in higher treatment bins must provide 90 to 99.7 percent 

(1.0 to 2.5-log) additional treatment for Cryptosporidium. Systems will select from a

wide range of treatment and management strategies in the "microbial toolbox" to meet 

their additional treatment requirements. All unfiltered water systems must provide at least

99 or 99.9 percent (2 or 3-log) inactivation of Cryptosporidium, depending on the results 

of their monitoring. These Cryptosporidium treatment requirements reflect consensus

recommendations of the Stage 2 Microbial and Disinfection Byproducts Federal 

Advisory Committee.

Other requirements: Systems that store treated water in open reservoirs must either cover

the reservoir or treat the reservoir discharge to inactivate 4-log virus, 3-log Giardia 

lamblia, and 2-log Cryptosporidium. These requirements are necessary to protect against

the contamination of water that occurs in open reservoirs. In addition, system operators 

must review their current level of microbial treatment before making a significant change

in their disinfection practice. This review will assist to protect against microbial 

pathogens as they take steps to reduce the formation of disinfection byproducts under the 

Stage 2 Disinfection Byproducts Rule, which EPA is finalizing along with the 

LT2ESWTR.

The Stage 2 Disinfection Byproducts Rule (DBPR) strengthens public health protection 

for customers by tightening compliance monitoring requirements for two groups of 

Disinfection Byproducts (DBPs), trihalomethanes (TTHM) and haloacetic acids (HAA5).

(Also refer to section 4.3 in this document.) The rule targets systems with the greatest

risk and builds incrementally on existing rules. This regulation will reduce DBP exposure 

and related potential health risks and provide more equitable public health protection. 

Under the Stage 2 DBPR, systems will conduct an evaluation of their distribution 

systems, known as an Initial Distribution System Evaluation (IDSE), to identify the 

locations with high DBP concentrations. These locations will then be used by the systems 

as the sampling sites for Stage 2 DBPR compliance monitoring. 

Compliance with the maximum contaminant levels for two groups of DBPs (TTHM and 

HAA5) will be calculated for each monitoring location in the distribution system. This 

approach, referred to as the locational running annual average (LRAA), differs from 

current requirements, which determine compliance by calculating the running annual 

average of samples from all monitoring locations across the system. 

The Stage 2 DBPR also requires each system to determine if they have exceeded an 

operational evaluation level, which is identified using their compliance monitoring 

results. The operational evaluation level provides an early warning of potential future 

maximum contaminant level (MCL) violations, which allows the system to take 

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proactive steps to remain in compliance. A system that exceeds an operational 

evaluation level is required to review their operational practices and submit a report to 

their state that identifies actions that may be taken to mitigate future high DBP levels, 

particularly those that may jeopardize their compliance with the DBP MCLs. 

Entities potentially regulated by the Stage 2 DBPR are community and nontransient 

noncommunity water systems that produce and/or deliver water that is treated with a 

primary or residual disinfectant other than ultraviolet light. 

7.1.8 The EPA Ground Water Rule (GWR)25 reduces the risk of exposure to fecal 

contamination that may be present in public water systems that use ground water

sources. The rule establishes a risk-targeted strategy to identify ground water systems

that are at high risk for fecal contamination. The GWR26 also specifies when

corrective action (which may include disinfection) is required to protect consumers

from bacteria and viruses if they consume water from ground water systems. The rule 

addresses risks through a risk-targeting approach that relies on four major

components:

7.1.8.1 Periodic sanitary surveys of ground water systems that require the

evaluation of eight critical elements and the identification of significant 

deficiencies (e.g., a well located near a leaking septic system).

7.1.8.2 Source water monitoring to test for the presence of E. coli, enterococci, or

coliphage in the sample. There are two monitoring provisions:

• Triggered monitoring for systems that do not already provide treatment

that achieves at least 99.99 percent (4-log) inactivation or removal of

viruses and that have a total coliform-positive routine sample under Total

Coliform Rule sampling in the distribution system.

• Assessment monitoring - As a complement to triggered monitoring, a

State has the option to require systems, at any time, to conduct source

water assessment monitoring to help identify high risk systems.

7.1.8.3 Corrective actions required for any system with a significant deficiency or

source water fecal contamination. The system must implement one or more of the

following correction action options:

• correct all significant deficiencies,

• eliminate the source of contamination,

• provide an alternate source of water, or

• provide treatment which reliably achieves 99.99 percent (4-log) inactivation

or removal of viruses.

7.1.8.4 Compliance monitoring to ensure that treatment technology installed to

treat drinking water reliably achieves at least 99.99 percent (4-log) inactivation or

removal of viruses. 

25 http://www.epa.gov/dwreginfo/ground-water-rule Accessed on 6/18/2019

26 http://nepis.epa.gov/Exe/ZyPDF.cgi?Dockey=P1001KJK.txt Accessed on 6/18/2019

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7.1.9 Filter Backwash Recycling27: This rule requires systems that recycle to return

specific recycle flows through all processes of the system's existing conventional or

direct filtration system or at an alternate location approved by the state (66 FR 31086, 

June 8, 2001, Vol. 6628).

7.2 Turbidity Monitoring:

7.2.1 All water systems requiring filtration under the Surface Water Treatment Rule,

Interim Enhanced Surface Water Treatment Rule, Long Term 1 Enhanced Surface Water

Treatment Rule and Long Term 2 Enhanced Surface Water Treatment Rule (7.1.6) must 

be analyzed for turbidity (cloudiness of water). The unit of measure for turbidity is the 

Nephelometric Turbidity Unit (NTU). The MCL is 1.0 NTU for diatomaceous earth and 

slow sand filtration and 0.3 NTU for conventional and direct filtration. The MCL for 

"other technology" filtration such as bag filtration is 1.0 NTU unless a more stringent 

requirement is established by the Primacy Agency. For systems that use conventional or 

direct filtration, at no time can turbidity go higher than 1 Nephelometric Turbidity Unit 

(NTU), and samples for turbidity must be less than or equal to 0.3 NTUs in at least 95 

percent of the samples in any month. Systems that use filtration other than the 

conventional or direct filtration must follow state limits, which must include turbidity at 

no time exceeding 5 NTUs. Systems serving 500 or fewer persons per day must collect 

one grab sample per day. Systems serving more than 500 persons per day must collect 

one grab sample every four hours when water is served to the Public or continuous 

monitoring may be substituted for grab sampling. 

7.2.2 The PHC must be informed of any violation. The issuance and content of public 

notification must be determined in consultation with the Primacy Agency and/or PHC. 

7.3 Disinfection:

All public drinking water systems will be continuously disinfected with NSF/ANSI 60

Standard 60 for Drinking Water Treatment Chemicals. Sodium hypochlorite is the

preferred disinfectant: primary disinfectants such as ozone and ultraviolet irradiation do 

not provide a residual and therefore an acceptable secondary disinfection will be 

required. Primary disinfection may be used for point of use treatment with low risk of

recontamination by the user. Approval by the Primary Agency (if applicable) and the

PHC is required. The PHC may specifically exempt non-public systems of primary and 

secondary disinfection after a complete sanitary survey of the system is made.

It is recommended that disinfection of groundwater systems achieve 4-log virus

inactivation if not achieved by other methods (e.g., reverse osmosis (RO), ozone, 

ultraviolet). New construction should be designed to provide 4-log virus inactivation as

specified by PHC. Drinking water systems and sources with several positive bacterial

samples may need to be replaced or require 4- log virus inactivation. 

Parks with surface water systems must monitor the entry point to the distribution system 

27 http://nepis.epa.gov/Exe/ZyPDF.cgi?Dockey=200025V5.txt Accessed on 6/18/2019 

28 https://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/FR-2001-06-08/pdf/01-13776.pdf Accessed on 6/18/2019 

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for the presence of a chlorine residual. The minimum chlorine residual is 0.2 mg/l or a

higher level determined using CT calculations. If the residual drops below 0.2 mg/l (or

the value required for minimum CT, whichever is greater), it must be restored within four

hours. Whenever the residual falls below the required value, the park must notify the

Primacy Agency and the PHC as soon as possible but no later than the end of the next

business day. For systems serving 3,300 persons or more, the chlorine residual must be

monitored on a continuous basis. Systems serving fewer than 3,301 persons can take

grab samples in lieu of continuous monitoring at the following frequencies:

System Population Samples/day

< 500 1

501-1000 2

1001-2500 3

2501-3300 4

Acceptable secondary disinfection methods are those which provide a measurable

disinfectant residual in the distribution system.

7.3.1 Distribution System Residual: All potable drinking water systems will be

continuously disinfected, the PHC may specifically exempt non-public systems after a 

complete sanitary survey of the system is made. A disinfectant residual must be

maintained (e.g. minimum 0.2 mg/L free chlorine) throughout the distribution system for

all continuously disinfected drinking water systems. If disinfectants other than chlorine

are used, the PHC or Primacy Agency must be contacted for residual levels required to be 

maintained. The absence of a residual indicates either an equipment failure or the

presence of contamination in the system. If an equipment failure is not the cause, the

park must contact the PHC or the Primacy Agency for assistance.

7.3.2 Routine Monitoring: All drinking water distribution systems must be monitored

for the presence of an acceptable residual. For those park operated, public drinking water

systems utilizing a chemical disinfectant, one (1) disinfectant residual sample will be

measured and recorded per day from representative points unless advised otherwise by

the PHC (also shown in table 5.0). Parks operating non-public drinking water systems or

receiving water from municipalities should contact the PHC for residual monitoring

guidance.

7.3.3 Redundancy of Disinfection Equipment: For surface water systems, replacement

disinfection equipment must be available and in service within four hours of problem

identification. For groundwater systems, replacement of disinfection equipment varies

based off the results of the most frequent sanitary survey or public health assessment. 

7.3.4 Special Monitoring - Bacteriological Sampling: The chlorine residual must be

measured at the bacteriological sample site each time a bacteriological sample is

collected. The monitoring results must be recorded on the operator's log and the

laboratory form.

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8.0 OPERATOR REQUIREMENTS 

8.1 All parks that operate public drinking water systems will have certified operators as

required by the primacy agency. If the park chooses to contract to have an operator, that 

operator must adhere to NPS policy and the Primacy Agency. All NPS drinking water 

systems that are treated or disinfected require a minimum of the lowest level of 

certification available through the State. If a waiver is issued through the OPH Director; 

operator certification may not be needed as determined by your local PHC.

8.2 The park must designate in writing, backup operators who have adequate training and 

skills to properly operate the system when the primary operator is not available. 

Equivalent backup operator certification and training is recommended and may be

required by some Primacy Agencies.

8.3 NPS Unit Managers will develop training plans and assure that operators receive any

required and/or appropriate training. The NPS OPH Field Services Branch, in 

partnership with NPS Facilities Management, provides training on an annual basis or as

funding permits. 

8.4 NPS Unit Managers and/or NPS operators must notify the regional PHC of any scheduled 

visits from the primacy agency to inspect NPS owned facilities and provide their contact

information, along with the scheduled date and time of the visit from other authorities

regulating public drinking water. 

9.0 CROSS CONNECTION CONTROL 

The Safe Drinking Water Act and International Plumbing Code require all public water systems

to maintain an active cross connection control program to protect the health of the public. All 

cross connections must be protected to prevent contamination of drinking water systems. This is

the responsibility of the owner/operator of the system, as well as the operator of each facility

connected to the water system.

Each park must have a documented cross connection control program on file for review by the

Primacy Agency and/or the PHC. An example policy for cross-connection and backflow control

is available from your PHC consultant. For proper backflow prevention in your safe drinking

water systems, please refer to Table 3.0 below. 

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TABLE 3.0 SUMMARY OF BACKFLOW PREVENTION ASSEMBLY APPLICATIONS* 

Backflow

Assembly

Non-Health Hazard

(Pollutant)

Health Hazard

(Contaminant)

Sewage

Backsiphonage Backpressure Backsiphonage Backpressure Backsiphonage Backpressure

AIR GAP (AG) X X X X X X

Reduced Pressure 

Backflow Assembly

(RPBA)

X X X X

Double Check Valve

Assembly (DCVA)

X X

Pressure Vacuum

Breaker(PVB)

X X

Air Vacuum Breaker

(AVB)

X X

*Adapted from Manual of Cross-Connection Control29, Univ.Southern CA Foundation for Cross-Connection Control and Hydraulic Research

a. Backflow Terminology

Cross-connection: Any unprotected actual or potential connection between a public water system and any other source through which it is

possible to introduce any substance other than the intended potable water.

Non-Health Hazard: An impairment of the quality of water to a degree which does not create a hazard to the public but does adversely affect the

aesthetic quality of water for domestic use.

Health Hazard: An impairment of the quality of the water, which creates an actual hazard to the public through poisoning or the spread of

disease.

Backsiphonage: Backflow due to a reduction in system pressure which causes negative pressure to exist in the water system.

Backpressure: A rise in pressure in the downstream piping system above the supply pressure which would cause a reversal of the normal

direction of flow.

Indirect Connection: A cross-connection which is subject to backsiphonage only.

Direct Connection: A cross-connection which is subject to both backsiphonage and backpressure.

29 http://www.manassascity.org/DocumentCenter/Home/View/2105 Accessed on 6/18/2019 

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10.0 POTABLE WATER HAULING 

In the absence of State or local standards, the following standards must apply to NPS 

water hauling operations, whether conducted by the Park or a private contractor: 

10.1 Water for all NPS water hauling operations, whether conducted by the park or a private

contractor, will be obtained from an approved water source that meets the requirements

of the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA and NPS requirements described in this

document).

10.2 Containers must be: (1) constructed of non-toxic materials; (2) be non-porous; (3) have

never been used for storing or hauling anything but potable water; and (4) be labeled

"potable water only". NSF approved containers are recommended. 

10.3 Before the container is filled, sufficient chlorine must be added in the water hauled to 

achieve a free chlorine residual of 1.0 ppm. A free chlorine residual sample must be 

taken, and recorded at each location were water is added to a different cistern. 

10.4 All water haulers will maintain the following records and such records must be 

made available to the NPS representatives and NPS PHC upon request: 

1. When and where each load was picked up.

2. When and where each load was delivered.

3. A record of all chlorine residual tests.

4. A record of types and quantities of any chemicals added to the load. (Sodium

hypochlorite, etc.)

5. A maintenance record for the tank and equipment showing method and

frequency of cleaning.

6. Any remarks the hauler feels are pertinent.

10.5 The container must be flushed each time water is hauled if it has not been used for 

more than one day. Water hauling truck must provide any procedures for hauling to 

the park and PHC upon request. Primary Agency protocols must be followed. 

10.6 At no time during the water filling operation must a potential for backflow exist. 

10.7 Hoses used to fill and empty tanks must be properly identified, and used only for 

potable water. The ends of the hoses must be capped, when not in use, and the caps 

must be attached to the hoses. 

10.8 All containers, tanks, hoses, fittings, and other equipment used to store, haul, or transfer

potable water must be constructed of approved food grade materials or coated with 

approved food grade coatings.

10.9 Hoses must be stored in such a manner that they are not subject to contamination 

from surface run-off, birds, rodents, and other sources of contamination. 

10.10 All valves and fire hydrants (assure hydrant water source meets SDWA and RM83A-1 

for nonpublic systems) must be flushed before the connection of any hoses. 

Page 18 of 52
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

10.11 No bacteriological testing will be required on water hauling tanks when source water

systems and receiving water systems have a bacteriological monitoring program in place.

11.0 REPORTS AND RECORDS RETENTION 

NPS Unit Managers will assure that required records are maintained in permanent files for

periodic review by the Public Health Consultant (PHC) or Primacy Agency representatives, and

that reports are submitted on a timely basis, as requested by the PHC and/or the Primacy Agency.

The results for any testing that is mandated in this policy should be provided to the PHC if not

reviewed during the onsite visit. Please consult your PHC for preferred reporting formats, and 

submission tools.

The park has the responsibility to maintain official records, to have them available in an

organized manner for the review and inspection of various regulatory entities, and for periodic

review by the PHC. Records must be retained as follows or as required by the Primacy Agency:

RECORDS RETENTION PERIOD 

Chemical Analyses Indefinitely

Bacteriological Analyses Five years

Turbidity Measurements Five years

Public Notices, Administrative Orders, Variances and Exemptions Five years

Sanitary Surveys Ten years

Operating Records--includes water usage, water production, 

chemical usage, chlorine residuals, etc. Five years

System History - includes well logs test pump data, system 

modifications, as-builts, operator designations, significant events Indefinitely

Lead and Copper Rule Records Twelve years

12.0 WATER CONSERVATION 

NPS Management Policies (Chapter 9.1.5.1) requires that the NPS design, construct, manage, 

and maintain water supply systems in a fashion that promotes conservation. Conservation 

measures which should be considered include: metering, leak detection and correction, automatic

irrigation systems, low-use water fixtures, low flush toilets, and programs which discourage

wasteful use of water.

Water Reuse: NPS approves wastewater to be treated for non-potable reuse only, and does not

allow the reuse for potable uses. Refer to RM83A-2 for wastewater reuse policy.

13.0 PAYMENT OF FEES FOR SERVICE 

Many primacy agencies charge fees for services. Fees are charged for plan review, construction

and operating permits, and for sanitary surveys conducted by the primacy agency. The Safe

Drinking Water Act placed federally owned and operated systems under the jurisdiction of

Primacy Agencies. Parks may be required to pay subject fees. Payment of fees should be

included in annual budget and contracting plans, as appropriate.

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14.0 PUBLIC NOTIFICATION 

All parks will comply with the public notification requirements of the Safe Drinking Water Act30

and the Primacy Agency. The public notification requirements of the Safe Drinking Water Act 

require water systems to notify persons relative to a three tier system. Tier 1 is an immediate

notice, Tier 2 is notice as soon as possible, and Tier 3 is an annual notice (examples31). 

15.0 PLAN REVIEW AND APPROVAL 

When drinking water system modifications or new construction is proposed, parks will contact 

the Primacy Agency to determine if plans and specifications should be submitted for approval. 

A copy of the plans and specifications will be provided to the PHC for review. If no regulatory 

guidance is available for public or non-public systems, American Water Works Association 

(AWWA) Standards and/or Recommended Standards for Water Works (Ten States Standards) 

should be followed. The PHC may be contacted for technical review and guidance on public 

health related issues (e.g. treatment, backflow prevention, disinfection, etc.). The NPS Denver 

Service Center has accepted codes and standards32. 

16.0 OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE PLAN 

All parks operating drinking water systems will have a written Operations and Maintenance Plan 

and an Emergency Response Plan. A copy must be provided to the PHC for review upon 

completion. Operation and Maintenance Plan and Emergency Response Plan examples can be 

found on the NPS OPH website33. 

17.0 POTABLE WATER FOR BACKCOUNTRY OPERATIONS 

See RM83A-5 for further details.

18.0 CONSUMER CONFIDENCE REPORTS 

The Safe Drinking Water Amendments of 1996 require that Public Community Water Systems 

provide all consumers with a yearly Consumer Confidence Report which outlines all 

bacteriological, physical, and chemical monitoring results and Maximum Contaminant Levels for

the preceding year. 

19.0 DRINKING WATER SECURITY AND EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS 

Security and emergency response planning have always been a critical element of managing a 

drinking water system. Threat categories include physical destruction, bioterrorism/chemical 

contamination, cyber-attacks, and personnel disruption. Potential threats can come from vandals, 

disgruntled employees, insider sabotage, activist groups, or state-sponsored terrorist groups. 

The Park should determine if there are any state mandated requirements for providing drinking 

water security assessments.

If there are no state requirements, the park can utilize the following list to protect the water

supply from contamination and other harm: 

30 http://water.epa.gov/lawsregs/rulesregs/sdwa/publicnotification/basicinformation.cfm Accessed on 6/18/2019 

31 https://www.epa.gov/region8-waterops/reporting-forms-and-instructions-public-notification# Accessed on 

6/18/2019 

32 http://www.nps.gov/dscw/ds-civil-environmental.htm Accessed on 6/18/2019 

33 https://sites.google.com/a/nps.gov/in2-protect-and-promote-health/home/drinking-water Accessed Page 20 of 52

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1. Prepare or update an emergency response plan. Ensure all level of involvement

and that all staff receive training on the plan.

2. Post updated emergency 24-hour numbers in highly visible areas (pumphouses,

vehicles, offices) and give them to key personnel and local response officials.

3. Get to know the Park Law enforcement staff and/or the local law enforcement

personnel. Ask them to add your facilities to their routine patrols. Practice

emergency response procedures with the rangers, emergency response and public

health staff.

4. Fence and lock your drinking water facilities and vulnerable areas (e.g. wellhead,

hydrants, manholes, pumphouses, and storage tanks).

5. Lock all entry gates and doors and set any alarms to indicate illegal entry. Do not

leave keys in equipment or vehicles at any time.

6. Install good lighting around your pumphouse, treatment facility and parking lot.

7. Identify existing and alternate water supplies and maximize use of backflow

prevention devices and minimize interconnections.

8. Use your Source Water Assessment information to lessen any threat posed by

potential sources of contamination.

9. Lock monitoring wells to prevent vandals or terrorists from pouring contaminants

directly into ground water near your source. Prevent pouring or siphoning

contaminates through vent pipes by moving them inside the pumphouse or

treatment plant. If that is not possible, fence or screen them.

10. In the event of an emergency, first call “911”, then activate your emergency

response plan.

A self-assessment vulnerability checklist is available on the NPS OPH website to help parks 

identify potential vulnerability concerns for their systems. An in-depth vulnerability profile 

assessment can be found in the Association of State Drinking Water Administrators, National 

Rural Water Association “Security Vulnerability Self-Assessment Guide for Small Drinking

Water Systems” document that is provided on the NPS OPH34 website, along with other drinking 

water security references. 

20.0 PROTECT SOURCES OF DRINKING WATER35 

There are many factors that impact drinking water sources. With climate change concerns 

drinking water facilities and sources need to assure that they are climate ready. The vulnerability 

assessment mentioned above is a tool that helps address some new emerging concerns. The 

following six steps provide water operators, park managers, and PHCs with information to help 

protect drinking water sources. 

1. Delineate the source water protection area (SWPA).

2. Inventory known and potential sources of contamination.

3. Determine the susceptibility of the PWS to contaminant sources or

activities within the SWPA.

4. Notify the public about the threats identified in the contaminant source

inventory and what they mean for the PWS.

5. Implement management measures to prevent, reduce, or eliminate risks to

your drinking water supply.

6. Develop contingency planning strategies that address water supply

34 https://sites.google.com/a/nps.gov/in2-protect-and-promote-health/home/drinking-water Accessed on 4/29/2019 

35 http://www.epa.gov/sourcewaterprotection. Accessed on 6/18/2019 

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contamination or service interruption emergencies. 

20.1 Disposition of Unused Wells:

Water wells that are in use are referred to as active wells, wells that are not in use (such as those 

that are being used as monitoring wells or that the Park wants to maintain for water rights) are 

referred to as an inactive well and maintained in accordance with the appropriate State standards. 

If the Park does not use or maintain an inactive well, the well is referred to as an abandoned well 

and must be destroyed in accordance with State standards. During the time the well is inactive 

the sanitary seal must be properly maintained to prevent any contamination of the aquifer. 

21.0 NATIONAL PRIMARY DRINKING WATER STANDARDS36 

According to the EPA website “Under the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA), EPA sets legal 

limits on the levels of certain contaminants in drinking water. The legal limits reflect both the 

level that protects human health and the level that water systems can achieve using the best 

available technology. Besides prescribing these legal limits, EPA rules set water-testing 

schedules and methods that water systems must follow. The rules also list acceptable techniques 

for treating contaminated water. SDWA gives individual states the opportunity to set and enforce 

their own drinking water standards, if the standards are at least as strong as EPA's national 

standards. Most states and territories directly oversee the water systems within their borders.” 

The National Park Service Office of Public Health thereby follows state and local standards for 

public water systems and similar standards for non-public systems, if the state does not address 

those systems. 

Information regarding chemical contaminants are referenced in the National Primary Drinking 

Water Regulations (NPDWRs or primary standards) and are legally enforceable standards that 

apply to public water systems. Primary standards protect drinking water quality by limiting the 

levels of specific chemical contaminants that can adversely affect public health and are known or 

anticipated to occur in public water systems. The link below divides these contaminants into 

Microorganisms, Disinfection Byproducts, Disinfectants, Inorganic Chemicals, Organic 

Chemicals, and Radionuclides. 

22.0 NATIONAL SECONDARY DRINKING WATER REGULATIONS 

National Secondary Drinking Water Regulations (NSDWRs or secondary standards) are nonenforceable guidelines regulating contaminants that may cause cosmetic effects (such as skin or 

tooth discoloration) or aesthetic effects (such as taste, odor, or color) in drinking water. EPA 

recommends secondary standards to water systems, but does not require systems to comply. 

However, states may choose to adopt them as enforceable standards. 

● National Secondary Drinking Water Regulations - The complete regulations regarding

these contaminants, known as secondary contaminants, is available from the Code of

Federal Regulations Web Site37 and appendix 3.

36 http://water.epa.gov/lawsregs/rulesregs/sdwa/currentregulations.cfm Accessed on 6/18/2019 

37 https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?

SID=b93f32c4706de73b0b048c13273412b9&mc=true&node=pt40.25.143&rgn=div5 Accessed 4/29/2019

Page 22 of 52
 

 

● For more information and a list of secondary drinking water regulations see the EPA

website38.

TABLE 4.0 GENERAL MINERALS* 

Contaminant (mg/L) 

Sodium 200 or less is preferred. 20 is considered the level for

concern for people with the need to control intake.

Alkalinity 30-500

Calcium 75-200

Hardness <200

Hydrogen Sulfide Test at source only when necessary

Magnesium 50-150

Phosphate <0.2

Potassium For corrosion control

Specific Conductance For corrosion control

Temperature (At Source) For corrosion control

● Values listed are for information only. No limits are established.

38 https://www.epa.gov/dwstandardsregulations/secondary-drinking-water-standards-guidance-nuisancechemicals Accessed on 6/18/2019 

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TABLE 5.0 SUMMARY OF PARAMETERS AND TESTING REGIME 

SYSTEM 

TYPE 

SOURCE 

TYPE 

BACTERIOLOGICAL 

ANALYSIS 

CHLORINE 

RESIDUAL 

ANALYSIS 

TURBIDITY 

(SURFACE 

WATER 

ONLY) 

CHEMICAL ANALYSIS 

PRIMARY 

INORGANIC 

SECONDARY 

CONTAMINANTS/ 

GENERAL 

MINERAL 

ORGANICS RADIONUCLIDE 

LEAD AND 

COPPER 

DISINFECTION 

BYPRODUCTS PESTICIDE/ 

HERBICIDE VOLATILE 

COMMUNITY 

WATER 

SYSTEM 

(CWS) 

NONTRANSIENT 

NONCOMMUNITY 

(NTNC) 

GW 

ONE/MONTH 

OR 

ONE/DAY 

More maybe 

be required 

by GWR 

(see section 

7.1.8) 

POPULATION 

<=500 

ONE/DAY 

POPULATION 

>500 

EVERY 

THREE 

YEARS 

Annual 

Nitrates 

EVERY THREE 

YEARS 

ANNUAL 

UNLESS 

STATE 

WAIVER 

ISSUED 

EVERY 

THREE 

YEARS 

UNLESS 

STATE 

WAIVER 

ISSUED 

Quarterly 

by the end 

of 2007, 

then every 

3,6, or 9 

years 

depending 

on results 

INITIAL 

SAMPLE ALL 

WATER 

SOURCES 

AND 

HOUSING 

MONITOR 

EVERY NINE 

YEARS PWS 

<=3,300 

PEOPLE AND 

MEETS 

MONITORING 

ONE/YEAR 

SW 

SEE 

TABLE 

PAGE 15 

ANNUALLY 

Annual 

Nitrates 

ANNUALLY 

POPULATION 

<=500 

ONE/YEAR 

POPULATION 

>500 

ONE/ 

QUARTER 

PER TABLE 1 CONTINUOUS 

OR 

EVERY 4 

HOURS 

WAIVER IN 

40 CFR 

141.86(g) 

POPULATION 

>10,000 

FOUR/ 

QUARTER 

Transient NonCommunity 

Water System 

(TNC) 

GW ONE/DAY EVERY 

NINE 

YEARS 

Annual 

Nitrates 

EVERY NINE 

YEARS 

ONE TIME 

AND AS 

REQUIRED 

BY PHC 

ONE TIME 

BY 1994 AND 

AS 

REQUIRED 

BY PHC 

ONE TIME 

AS 

REQUIRED 

BY PHC 

AS 

REQUIRED 

BY PHC 

SW 

SEE 

TABLE 

PAGE 15 

AS 

REQUIRED 

BY PHC 

NON-PUBLIC 

(NP) 

GW 

ONE/MONTH 

THREE/ 

WEEK or 

AS 

REQUIRED 

BY PHC 

DETERMINE 

ON 

INDIVIDUAL 

BASIS 

EVERY 

NINE 

YEARS 

Annual 

Nitrates 

EVERY NINE 

YEARS 

ONE TIME 

AND AS 

REQUIRED 

BY PHC 

SPECIAL 

SITUATIONS 

AS 

REQUIRED 

BY PHC 

AS 

REQUIRED 

BY PHC 

AS 

REQUIRED 

BY PHC 

AS 

REQUIRED 

BY PHC 

SW 

Page 24 of 52
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

APPENDIX 1.0 GLOSSARY OF COMMONLY USED TERMS 

Item Definition 

Aquifer A natural underground layer, often of sand or gavel, 

which contains water.

Bioterrorism An agent defined as organisms (including bacteria, 

viruses, and protozoa) and biotoxins that may be found 

in natural environmental surroundings or may be

weaponized in such a way to increase their virulence 

and/or increase their resistance to vaccination or

antibiotic treatment.

CT-value (Concentration X Time) The product of "residual disinfection concentration" in 

mg/L determined before or at the first customer, and the

corresponding "disinfection contact time" in minutes.

Cryptosporidium Coccidian protozoan shed in the feces of man and

animals in the form of oocysts, which can survive under

adverse environmental conditions for long periods of

time. Responsible for a severe gastrointestinal disease 

called cryptosporidiosis.

Escherichia coli (E.coli) One of the species of bacteria in the fecal coliform

group. It is found in large numbers in the

gastrointestinal tract and feces of warm-blooded animals

and man. Its presence is considered indicative of fresh 

fecal contamination, and it is used as an indicator

organism for the presence of less easily detected

pathogenic bacteria.

Fecal Coliforms Aerobic and facultative, gram-negative, non-sporeforming rod-shaped bacteria capable of growth at 44.5 

degrees C., and associated with fecal matter of warmblooded animals.

Giardia lamblia Flagellate protozoan shed in the feces of man and

animals, usually in the cyst stage, and responsible for a

severe gastrointestinal disease called giardiasis.

Ground water under the direct

influence of surface water (GWUDI)

Water beneath the surface of the ground with (1)

significant occurrence of insects or other

macroorganisms, algae, or large-diameter pathogens

such as Giardia lamblia; or (2) significant and relatively

rapid shifts in water characteristics such as turbidity,

temperature, conductivity, or pH which closely correlate

to climatological or surface water conditions.

Page 25 of 52
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Item Definition 

Heterotrophic Plate Count (HPC) Number of colonies of heterotrophic bacteria grown on 

selected solid media at a given temperature and

incubation period, usually expressed in number of

colony forming units per milliliter of sample (CFU/ml).

Heterotrophic microorganisms Bacteria and other microorganisms that utilize organic

matter synthesized by other organisms for energy and 

growth.

Inorganic Chemicals (IOC) Chemical substances of mineral origin not having 

carbon in their molecular structure.

Maximum Contaminant Levels

(MCL)

The highest permissible concentration of a substance

allowed in drinking water, as established by EPA.

Maximum Contaminant Level Goals

(MCLG)

The highest permissible concentration of a substance

allowed in drinking water at which no known or

anticipated health effects will occur. They are health

goals and are not enforceable.

Minimum Detection Limit (MDL) The lowest achievable concentration of a contaminant

that can be measured under ideal laboratory conditions. 

A more technical definition is the minimum 

concentration of a substance that can be identified, 

measured, and reported with 99% confidence that the

concentration of the substance being measured is greater

than zero.

Non-Potable Water that may contain objectionable pollution, 

contamination, minerals, or infective agents and is

considered unsafe and/or unpalatable for drinking. If

water is non-potable, a clear statement that the water is

non-potable and should not be used for drinking, food or

beverage preparation, hand washing, teeth brushing, or

any other consumptive use should be stated.

Pathogen A variety of bacteria, protozoan parasites, and viruses

Potable Water Water that meets the standards for drinking purposes of

the State or local authority having jurisdiction, or water

that meets quality standards prescribed by the U.S. 

Environmental Protection Agency. 

Potable Water Hauling: The transportation of potable water as a primary, a 

supplemental, or an emergency source in containers

greater than 50 gallons.

Primacy Agency Generally a State agency authorized by the EPA to

Page 26 of 52
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Item Definition 

administer provisions of Safe Drinking Water Act. 

(Note: Not all States have requested this authorization. 

If authorization is not requested, EPA is the Primacy

Agency).

Public Health Assessment A combination of on-site sanitary surveys of safe 

drinking water systems, wastewater systems, disease

surveillance, food safety inspections, recreational water

surveys, public health in backcountry operations, and 

promoting health in park units. 

Radionuclide A material with an unstable atomic nucleus, which

spontaneously decays or disintegrates, producing

radiation.

Sanitary Survey An onsite review of the water source, facilities,

equipment, operation and maintenance of a public water

system for the purpose of evaluating the adequacy of

such source, facilities, equipment, operation and 

maintenance for producing and distributing safe

drinking water.

Source Water Surface water (streams, rivers, and lakes) or ground 

water (aquifers) can serve as sources of drinking water, 

referred to as source water. Source water provides

water for public drinking water supplies and private

water wells.

Synthetic Organic Chemicals (SOC) Man-made organic chemicals, many of which have been

detected in drinking water. This group includes the

VOCs.

Trihalomethanes (THM) A group of volatile organic compounds formed when 

chlorine reacts with naturally occurring humic

substances. Individual Compounds are not regulated 

under THM's.

Total Coliforms (Pathogens) A group of bacteria predominantly inhabiting the

intestines of man or animals but occasionally found 

elsewhere. Presence in water is used as indication of

possible pathogen contamination. Pathogens include

various types of bacteria, viruses, protozoan parasites, 

and other organisms.

Total Trihalomethanes (TTHM) A term used to designate the total concentration of

chloroform, bromoform, dibromochloromethane, and 

Page 27 of 52
Item Definition 

bromodichloromethane in the National Primary

Drinking Water Regulations. Combination of THM

compounds is regulated.

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) Lightweight, man-made organic compounds that

vaporize, or evaporate, easily.

Waiver The relinquishing of the requirements to perform certain 

monitoring and/or sampling procedures.

Page 28 of 52
 

 

APPENDIX 2.0 FREQUENTLY USED ABBREVIATIONS AND ACRONYMS 

AWWA: American Water Works Association 

CFR: Code of Federal Regulations

CT: value (Concentration X Time)

CWS: Community Water System

DBP: Disinfection Byproduct

DBPR: Disinfection Byproduct Rule

GW: Ground Water

GWR: Ground Water Rule

GWUDI: Ground water under the direct influence of surface water

HAA5: Haloacetic acids

HPC: Heterotrophic Plate Count

IOC: Inorganic Chemicals

MCL: Maximum Contaminant Level

MCLG: Maximum Contaminant Level Goals

MDL: Minimum Detection Limit 

NPS: National Park Service 

NSF: formerly known as National Science Foundation and NSF International as of 1990

NTNC: Non-Transient Non-Community

NTU: Nephelometric Turbidity Unit

NP: Non-Public

OPH: Office of Public Health

PHC: public health consultant

PWS: Public Water System

PWS: Public Water System

RM: Reference Manual

RTCR: Revised Total Coliform Rule

SDWA: Safe Drinking Water Act

SOC: Synthetic Organic Chemicals

SW: Surface Water

SWPA: Source Water Protection Area

TC+: Total Coliform positive

THM: Trihalomethanes

TNC: Transient Non-Community

TTHM: Total Trihalomethanes

USC: United States Code

USEPA: United States Environmental Protection Agency

Page 29 of 52
VOC: Volatile Organic Compounds

WQP: Water quality parameter

Page 30 of 52
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

APPENDIX 3.0 TABLE OF SECONDARY DRINKING WATER STANDARDS 

Contaminant Secondary MCL Noticeable Effects above the Secondary MCL 

Aluminum 0.05 to 0.2 

mg/L* colored water

Chloride 250 mg/L salty taste

Color 15 color units visible tint

Copper 1.0 mg/L metallic taste; blue-green staining

Corrosivity Non-corrosive metallic taste; corroded pipes/ fixtures staining

Fluoride 2.0 mg/L tooth discoloration

Foaming agents 0.5 mg/L frothy, cloudy; bitter taste; odor

Iron 0.3 mg/L rusty color; sediment; metallic taste; reddish or orange

staining

Manganese 0.05 mg/L black to brown color; black staining; bitter metallic

taste

Odor 3 TON (threshold 

odor number) "rotten-egg", musty or chemical smell

pH 6.5 - 8.5 low pH: bitter metallic taste; corrosion

high pH: slippery feel; soda taste; deposits

Silver 0.1 mg/L skin discoloration; graying of the white part of the eye

Sulfate 250 mg/L salty taste

Total Dissolved 

Solids (TDS) 500 mg/L hardness; deposits; colored water; staining; salty taste

Zinc 5 mg/L metallic taste

*mg/L is milligrams of substance per liter of water.

Page 31 of 52
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

APPENDIX 4.0 NPS OFFICE OF PUBLIC HEALTH DRINKING WATER MONITORING WAIVER APPLICATION 

The National Park Service Office of Public Health understands that there may be specific situations where a waiver for water sampling may be necessary.

However, public health will not be compromised to issue a waiver and the application below is necessary to help assure proper public health can be maintained

within the water system if a waiver is permitted. In order to be considered for a monitoring waiver, the complete application must be submitted at least sixty (60)

days prior to system startup (seasonal only) or January 1 of the request year of implementation. Filling out this form does not automatically grant a waiver.

Monitoring Waiver Form 

Date: Park Name: Name of Person Filling out Application and Title: 

Address: City/State/ZIP: County: Phone number 

Waiver Requested for the Following: Use (X) to select and 

explain if other. Bacteriological , Disinfection by-Products , Radionuclides , Other 

Please write the system name and public water system ID (PWSID) (if applicable) in the spaces 

provided to the right.

Have all NPS Reference Manual 83A testing requirements been met? NA means not applicable.

Note: The PHC may not issue waivers for items that are regulated by Primacy Agency (see 

RM83A for questions). 

*No does not mean omit the possibility of a waiver.

SYSTEM/PWSIDNAME OF 23456 

1. System type per RM83A (CWS, NTNC, TNC, NP) 

2. Primary Inorganic chemicals (IOCs), Secondary Contaminants, & General Minerals 

(Yes, No*, or NA) 

3. Nitrate and Nitrites (Yes, No*, or NA) 

4. Organics: Pesticides and Herbicides (Yes, No*, or NA) 

5. Organics: Volatile Organic Chemicals (VOCs) (Yes, No*, or NA) 

6. Radionuclides (Yes, No*, or NA) 

7. Lead and Copper (Yes, No*, or NA) 

8. Disinfection by-products (Yes, No*, or NA) 

9. Bacteriological (Yes, No*, or NA) 

10. Chlorine Residuals (Yes, No*, or NA) 

11. Type of Source (Check or “X” under the appropriate source) 

a. Ground Water (including springs)

b. Surface Water (including ground water sources under the influence of surface water)

12. Land use and system characteristics (Write in appropriate number under each source) 

a. Land use within 2-mile radius of source (round to the nearest 5% and list all known land

uses and total up to 100%): 1. Residential 2. Agricultural—livestock 3. Agricultural—

crop land 4. Industrial/Manufacturing 5. Undeveloped 6. Mining 7.Other (describe on

separate paper and attach

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b. System has a source water/drinking water protection plan. Yes or No*

c. Is the source influenced by geothermal waters?

d. Have there been any changes to the system’s configuration or pumping rates within the

past year? If yes, please submit a description of the changes along with the application.

e. Are there any other land use practices (farming, industrial, mining) within a 10 mile radius

that would create public health concerns for the water source? If yes, approximate

distances and list uses

13. Well characteristics (Only fill out this portion if the source is a well) 

a. Please indicate the depth of the well in feet at the right (Depth to end of casing, 1st screen

or perforation in casing) Check well log or source water assessment. Leave blank or write

“NA” if not known.

c. Construction date and description of well.

b. Approximate distance in miles to nearest active/inactive dump or landfill. NA if not known

or >5 mi

d. Are there any of the following potential sources of contamination within 300 feet of the

wellhead (write Yes or No) If yes, please attach a description and an estimated location of

the facility to the wellhead. Service stations, dry cleaners, small or large machinery repair

shops, electronics repair shops, other light/heavy industry, or wastewater systems.

e. Did the most recent public health assessment indicate that the well meets minimum

construction standards for flood protection? (write Yes or No or UNK for unknown)

f. Indicate by number the best description of the soil type around the well from about 0-20

feet below the surface: 1. Topsoil rich in humus 2. Topsoil with heavy clay 3. Sand or

silt 4. Fractured rock or gravel 5. Solid rock 6. Other 7. Unknown

14. Surface water characteristics (Only fill out this portion if the source is surface water) 

a. Has the watershed been inspected in the past year for signs of contamination? Yes or No.

The information provided is true and accurate to the best of my knowledge: _____________________________________________________________ 

Signature of Authorized Agent and Title Date 

NPS Office of Public Health Regional Consultant: _____________________________________________________________ 

Signature and Title Date 

NPS Office of Public Health Director: _____________________________________________________________ 

Signature and Title Date 

Determining vulnerability for possible monitoring waiver 

For Source vulnerability, we try to identify potential contamination from activities that may occur in the area from which the source draws its water. Two factors influence used to access

vulnerability are: 

1. Physical susceptibility to contaminant infiltration: Physical susceptibility is determined by examining conditions that affect the movement of contaminants from the land surface into a

water supply. This includes the depth of the well, its construction, the geology of the area, the pumping rate, the source(s) of groundwater recharge, and the aquifer material.

2. Contaminant exposure: The risk of contaminant exposure is based on what contaminants, if any, are used in the water supply area.

NOTE: This waiver will be accompanied by a memo that outlines what the park will do to still ensure potable water is provided. As a reminder, this waiver is valid for one year and can be

canceled at any time if a public health issue is identified and confirmed throughout the waiver year.

It can be difficult to predict groundwater pollution from surface exposure accurately because each contaminant type may act differently in the environment. Therefore, physical susceptibility helps to 

determine vulnerability. If physical susceptibility data is incomplete, or contaminant use is highly unlikely, we base the vulnerability assessment on risk of exposure to contaminants. If there are 

questions or comments, please contact your regional public health specialist (https://www.nps.gov/public_health/ ) 

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APPENDIX 5.0 DRINKING WATER EXAMPLE SITE SAMPLING PLAN (FROM EPA REGION 8) 

Sample Siting Plan Instructions 

22.1 Why do I need to develop a Revised Total Coliform Rule (RTCR) sample siting plan? 

The purpose of this plan is to specify where in the distribution system routine bacteriological samples will be collected to ensure they are representative of the water quality in your

system. The original siting plan should be kept on-site for use by sampling personnel. Beginning April 1, 2016, under the RTCR, every water system will be required to collect

bacteriological samples monthly. Prior to that date, your system will remain on the schedule as indicated in the annual Monitoring and Reporting Requirements list that EPA sends to 

your system.

The RTCR requires EPA to collect and review every public water system’s RTCR sample siting plan prior to April 1, 2016, so please review, revise and submit your plan before

that date. You will need to submit:

1. A list of sampling locations (a blank chart can be found in Addendum C):

• You will need to indicate the sites for routine and repeat bacteriological monitoring in your distribution system; and

• Any source water sampling sites if subject to the Ground Water Rule.

2. A map of the distribution system showing locations of your sample sites as described in the sample siting plan. You can use a

diagram, distribution system map, aerial photo, etc. Clearly indicate if there are multiple distribution systems and if those

distribution systems are connected to each other.

22.2 Where to submit your plan: 

Send a copy of your RTCR sample siting plan via mail, e-mail, or fax to:

The Primacy Agency

and/or

The regional National Park Service Office of Public Health Public Health Consultant

22.3 How to choose a laboratory: 

Not all laboratories have been approved and certified to analyze for all the required drinking water contaminants. You must send your samples to a laboratory that is certified for

the specific samples that you are submitting. For a list of certified labs, visit the EPA Region 8 website: http://www2.epa.gov/region8-waterops and click the certified lab link.

Page 34 of 52
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

General Requirements 

22.4 Process for selecting sample sites and rotation: 

Review the layout of your distribution system and choose RTCR sample sites that will represent each area of the distribution system if sampled on a monthly rotating basis throughout an 

entire year or open season. Be sure to take into account non-permanent sources (seasonal or interim). These sources need to be represented within your siting plan. If your water system

has multiple (completely separated) distribution systems, you must select sample sites within each separate distribution system. Samples can be rotated among the different distribution 

systems in different months, or you can collect samples in each distribution system each month, even if that means collecting more samples than are required. See Addendum B, example 

3.

The siting plan may need to be updated periodically to account for system changes (such as population changes, new sources, or change in treatment, etc). The plan should be reviewed

annually and during your sanitary survey to incorporate any changes. Submit any revisions to the EPA regional office as soon as they occur.

22.5 Routine Monitoring Requirement 

Unless otherwise specified in your monitoring and reporting requirements, most systems will be placed on the monitoring schedule seen in

Addendum A of this document. 

Use the chart below as an example for formatting the sample siting plan. The following must be included in the plan:

• Routine sampling location(s);

• Repeat sampling locations (only necessary if your routine sample is TC+);

• Ground Water Rule (GWR) source sample locations for systems using ground water sources. (GWR source samples are only required if your

routine sample is TC+. You must sample every ground water source operating at the time of the TC+ routine sample).

22.6 Repeat Monitoring 

After April 1, 2016 under the RTCR, systems must collect no fewer than three repeat samples for each TC+ routine sample. This requirement will apply to all systems.

• All repeat samples need to be taken within 24 hours of notification of a TC+ routine sample. If you cannot make this timeframe, be sure to

contact EPA Region 8 as soon as possible;

• One repeat sample is required to be taken from the same tap as the original TC+ sample;

• One repeat sample should be taken within five taps upstream of the original TC+ sample, and one should be taken within five taps

downstream;

Page 35 of 52
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

22.7 Take note of your routine sample locations. Can you take proper repeats based on your current choices of routine sampling 

sites? If not, you will need to reevaluate your routine sites and choose another location. If you do not have a distribution 

system, upstream and downstream locations may not exist. In this case, you would need to collect multiple samples at the 

original location to count as repeat samples. 

Follow this same format but expand as necessary if your system would need to take more than one sample per month. (Seasonal systems only have to sample during their operating season).

See Addendum B for examples and Addendum C for blank pages.

1 sample/month Routine sample location Repeat sample locations GWR sample location (any ground water sources 

operating at the time of a routine TC+) 

January 1) 1) (same as routine location) 

(within 5 taps upstream) 2) 

(within 5 taps downstream) 3) 

February 1) 1) (same as routine location) 

2) 

3) 

March 1) 1) (same as routine location) 

2) 

3) 

E. coli Testing and E. coli MCL Compliance Determination 

Any TC+ sample result is automatically analyzed for E. coli (EC) by your lab. Any EC+ repeat sample or any total coliform-positive repeat sample following an EC+ routine sample

constitutes an E. coli MCL violation. All E. coli MCL violations are situations that require you to contact EPA Region 8 immediately and distribute public notice including a boil order to 

your customers.

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Disinfectant (chlorine) residual monitoring: 

If you chlorinate, your system may need to conduct residual disinfectant monitoring in the distribution system for the Disinfection By-Product Rule and/or the Surface Water Treatment

Rule. Review your Monitoring and Reporting Requirements sheet to verify if disinfectant monitoring is necessary. If you need to conduct this monitoring, keep the following in mind:

• The residual disinfectant must be measured at the same time and the same location as each total coliform bacteria sample.

• These measurements must be conducted in the field by a certified operator (or under the direction of the certified operator).

• Residual disinfectant measurements must be written on each total coliform sample slip when it is submitted to the laboratory.

• Ask your laboratory to forward this information to EPA along with the sample results.

Depending on the disinfectant used in the distribution system, ensure you are measuring the proper disinfectant residual:

 If chlorine is used, the disinfectant residual must be measured as free, total, or combined chlorine

 If chloramines are used, the disinfectant residual must be measured as total chlorine

Ground water source sampling: 

22.8 Triggered Source Water Monitoring Requirement 

Your system may need to conduct triggered source water sampling if you use a ground water source and have a TC+ routine sample result. Review your Monitoring and Reporting

Requirements sheet to verify if source water monitoring is necessary. If you need to conduct this monitoring, keep the following in mind:

• Within 24-hours of notification that a routine Total Coliform Rule distribution system sample is TC+, you must collect a raw water sample

from each groundwater source that was in use at that time for every routine TC+ sample (e.g. if you have three routine TC+ samples, you will

need to collect three source samples from each ground water source). This sample must be analyzed for E. coli.

• You will need to report this data using the “Source Water Sampling-Triggered Source Monitoring Sample Collection and Reporting Form”

found on our website at: http://www2.epa.gov/region8-waterops/wyoming-and-tribal-triggered-groundwater-source-sampling-form

• If you need further assistance on the Ground Water Rule and the required steps after a routine TC+ sample, please consult:

http://www2.epa.gov/region8-waterops/epa-region-8-drinking-water-unit-tech-tips-follow-unsafetotal-coliform-positive

If the system received EPA Region 8 approval to use a sampling site that represents more than one groundwater source, please indicate that on the sample collection and monitoring

form mentioned above that is submitted with your samples.

Page 37 of 52
 

 

 

22.9 Addendum A: Required number of monthly routine samples under the Revised Total Coliform Rule 

Sampling requirements for all water systems:

Population served/day Routine Samples/Month Population served/day Routine Samples/Month 

25-1,000 1 8501-12900 10

1001-2500 2 12901-17200 15

2501-3300 3 17201-21500 20

3301-4100 4 21501-25000 25

4101-4900 5 25001-33000 30

4901-5800 6 33001-41000 40

5801-6700 7 41001-50000 50

6701-7600 8 50001-59000 60

7601-8500 9 59001-70000 70

22.10 Addendum B: Examples of RTCR Sample Siting Plans 

1) Your water system is a town serving 550 people year around. One routine TCR sample per month is required. Repeating the same set of

three rotating locations every quarter is acceptable. Repeat this pattern to finish the monitoring year.

1 sample/month Routine sample location Repeat sample locations GWR sample location (any sources 

running at the time of a routine TC+) 

January 1) Town Hall 1) (same as routine location) Well #1 

(within 5 taps upstream) 2) Senior Center Well #2 

(within 5 taps downstream) 3) Big A Truck Stop 

February 1) 123 Main St 1) (same as routine location) Well #1 

2) Oskar’s Bar Well #2 

Page 38 of 52
 

3) Fire Station 

March 1) 456 Center St. 1) (same as routine location) Well #1 

2) 789 Center St. Well #2 

3) 1010 Grand Ave 

April 1) Town Hall 1) (same as routine location) Well #1 

2) Senior Center Well #2 

3) Big A Truck Stop 

May 1) 123 Main St 1) (same as routine location) Well #1 

2) Oskar’s Bar Well #2 

3) Fire Station 

June 1) 456 Center St 1) (same as routine location) Well #1 

2) 789 Center St. Well #2 

3) 1010 Grand Ave 

2) You have a seasonal campground/RV park open from June to August that serves 50 people per day but has two separate distribution loops (one for

the campground and one for the RV section). Your system would only be required to monitor one sample per month. You could rotate the single

sample each month between the two distribution loops, but we recommend collecting a sample from each section each month to ensure both loops are

functioning properly. If you opt to take a secondary sample in addition to your routine sample, be sure to label that as “special” when submitting to

the lab:

Page 39 of 52
 

 

1 sample/month Routine sample location Repeat sample locations GWR sample location (any sources 

running at the time of a routine TC+) 

June 1) CG Loop Tent #1 1) (same as routine location) Resort Well #1 

2) Optional RV loop sample (special) 2) Shower House 

3) Rec Room 

July 1) RV loop Space #6 1) (same as routine location) Resort Well #1 

2) Optional CG loop sample (special) 2) RV loop Space #1 

3) RV loop Space #10 

August 1) CG Loop Tent #1 1) (same as routine location) Resort Well #1 

2) Optional RV loop sample (special) 2) Shower House 

3) Rec Room 

3) You have a system that serves 7,000 people per day. A total of eight samples are required per month and should be collected at regular time

intervals throughout the month. For example, you might opt to take a set of four samples on the 1st and 3rd weeks of each month.

First week of the month: Sample 1) Senior Center Third week of the month: Sample 1) Senior Center

Sample 2) Hospital Sample 2) Hospital

Sample 3) 789 Old Hwy Sample 3) 789 Old Hwy

Sample 4) 123 Main St. Sample 4) 123 Main St.

Use the sample siting form to indicate the repeat locations and any required source water sample locations for each sample site.

Page 40 of 52
 

 

Addendum C: Example forms. Expand the following table as necessary. Feel free to detach and use this example form:

PWS NAME: PWS ID #: GWR sample location (any sources 

running at the time of a routine TC+) 

(1 sample/mo) Routine sample location Repeat sample locations 

January 1) 1) (same as routine location) 

2) 

3) 

February 1) 1) (same as routine location) 

2) 

3) 

March 1) 1) (same as routine location) 

2) 

3) 

April 1) 1) (same as routine location) 

2) 

3) 

May 1) 1) (same as routine location) 

2) 

3) 

June 1) 1) (same as routine location) 

2) 

Page 41 of 52
3) 

July 1) 1) (same as routine location) 

2) 

3) 

August 1) 1) (same as routine location) 

2) 

3) 

September 1) 1) (same as routine location) 

2) 

3) 

October 1) 1) (same as routine location) 

2) 

3) 

November 1) 1) (same as routine location) 

2) 

3) 

December 1) 1) (same as routine location) 

2) 

3) 

Page 42 of 52
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

APPENDIX 6.0 GENERAL TNC WATER SYSTEM SEASONAL START-UP AND 

SHUT-DOWN 

Key Principles and Procedures for Start-Up

□ Review all system manuals and job-hazard-analyses prior to start-upactivities.

□ Follow lock-out and tag-out procedures for electrical service to pumpingsystem during start-up and

operational periods.

□ Resupply chemicals following MSDS requirements and store properlyonsite.

 Prevent damage to system. 

□ Operate all valves in the system for proper operation and orientation.

□ Read gauges, meters and panels upon system start-up to ensure correct s ettings.

□ Inspect all exposed plumbing joints, taps, fixtures for leaks or incorrect o rientation.

□ Inspect reservoir/tanks and lines for leaks or damage. Check pressure tanks for waterlogging or pressure

issues.

□ Inspect connection of chemical injection pumps.

□ Check that electrical components are properly grounded.

□ Check that doors, fencing and locks are working properly.

□ Inspect housing of facilities for rodent or insect infestation.

 Prevent contamination of water. 

□ Flush and disinfect lines and reservoir/tanks. For chlorination and dechlorination procedures, please use

the references found at: https://portal.doi.net/nps/PHP/DW/Shared%20Documents/Disinfection%20of%

20Potable%20Water%20Storage%20Tanks,%20distribution%20lines,%20and%20wells%20FINAL%

2012-12-2018(508).pdf or http://www.vita-d-chlor.com/

□ Assure disinfectant residuals are at least 0.2 mg/L and less than 4 mg/L (for chlorine), and report results

to the public health consultant, state, and others as required.

□ Conduct two consecutive bacteriological tests (Per NPS R M83A-1).

• Assure quality is met in all main legs of the distribution sys. see Revise Total Coliform Rule

□ Test reservoir level controls and automatic systems.

□ Test backflow preventions devices. Ensure all vacuum breakers are in p lace.

□ Replace defective screens and seals around pipe and reservoir/tank openings.

□ Inspect well protection area (100 feet) for any sources of c ontamination.

□ Inspect well cap and vent for any openings allowing debris, precipitation or animals access.

□ Check secondary containment around backup power system or fuel c ontainers.

 Communicate system status to stakeholders 

□ Notify concessioners, visitors, partners, park staff and regional public health consultant at least

one week prior to system start-up.

□ Complete necessary forms required by State to indicate system has r estarted.

□ Place orders for water analysis tests as needed.

□ Record initial meter readings and any other tracked data.

□ Start-up each system with ample time to allow for bacteria testing results and all of the above areas to be

addressed before the system is in service

References 

Ohio EPA Seasonal Noncommunity Public Water Systems Start-up and Shut-down Checklist 

Washington State DOH Small Water System Start-up Shut-down Self-Inspection Checklist

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Key Principles and Procedures for Shut-Down

□ Review all system manuals and job-hazard-analyses prior to shut-downactivities.

□ Follow lock-out and tag-out procedures for lock-out and tag-out electrical service to pumping system

during draining and seasonalshut-down.

□ Move stored chemicals following MSDS requirements to proper ventilated storage area.

 Prevent damage to system. 

□ Drain reservoirs/tanks and lines. Drain and deactivate water appliances, such as hot water tanks, ice

makers, etc.

□ Properly dispose of remaining chemical injection vat contents.

□ Run fresh water through chemical injection pumps and drain.

□ Check that electrical components are properly grounded.

□ Check that doors, fencing and locks are working properly.

□ Inspect housing of facilities for rodent or insect infestation.

 Prevent contamination of water. 

□ Replace defective screens and seals around pipe and reservoir/tank openings.

□ After draining and removing equipment as needed, close all valves and capall openings to lines,

chemical vats and reservoir/tanks.

□ Do not add anti-freeze to any parts of the system. This include propylene glycol shee section 3.2.1 above.

□ Inspect well protection area (100 feet) for any sources of contamination.

□ Inspect well cap and vent for any openings allowing debris, precipitation or animal access.

□ Check secondary containment around backup power system or fuel containers.

 Communicate system status to stakeholders 

□ Notify concessioners, visitors, partners, park staff and regional public health consultant at least

one week prior to system shut down.

□ Complete necessary forms required by State to indicate system will be shutdown.

□ Ensure final water analysis tests are complete and sent to the public health consultant and

others as needed.

□ Record final meter readings and any other tracked data.

References 

Ohio EPA Seasonal Noncommunity Public Water Systems Start-up and Shut-down Checklist 

Washington State DOH Small Water System Start-up Shut-down Self-Inspection Checklist

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APPENDIX 7.0 TEMPLATE POLICY FOR THE CONTROL OF BACKFLOW AND 

CROSS-CONNECTIONS 

1.0 Section 1. Cross-Connection Control Policy 

1.1 Purpose. The purpose of this policy is:

1.1.1 To protect the public and non-public water supply of [Name of Park Here] from the

possibility of contamination or pollution.

1.1.2 To promote the elimination or control of existing cross-connections, actual or potential, 

between the potable water system(s) and non-potable water system(s), plumbing fixtures and 

industrial piping systems; and, 

1.1.3 To provide for the maintenance of a continuing program of cross-connection control which 

will systematically and effectively prevent the contamination or pollution of all potable

water systems.

1.2 Responsibility. The [Park Position - Chief of Maintenance./Facilities Management 

suggested here] is responsible for the protection of the public and non-public potable water 

distribution systems from contamination or pollution through the water service connections. 

If, in the judgment of the [Park Position - Chief of Maintenance./Facilities Management 

suggested here], Regional Public Health Consultant, or appropriate regulatory officials, an 

approved backflow prevention assembly is required for the safety of the water system, The 

[Park Position - Chief of Maintenance/Facilities Management suggested here] must

install, or have installed, such an approved backflow prevention assembly. 

2.0 Section 2. Definitions.

2.1 Park Chief of Maintenance/Facilities Manager. The [Park Position - Chief of 

Maintenance./Facilities Management suggested here] is in charge of the park maintenance 

and is invested with the authority and responsibility for the implementation of an effective

cross-connection control program and for the provisions of this policy.

2.2 Approved. Accepted by the [Park Position - Chief of Maintenance/Facilities 

Management suggested here] as meeting an applicable specification stated or cited in this 

ordinance, or as suitable for the proposed use.

2.3 Auxiliary Water Supply. Any water supply on or available to the premises, other than the

National Park Service approved potable water system, will be considered an auxiliary water

supply. These auxiliary waters may include water from another purveyor’s public potable water

supply or any natural source(s) such as a well, spring, river, stream, lake, etc., or “used waters” 

or “industrial Fluids”. These waters may be contaminated or polluted or they may be 

objectionable and constitute an unacceptable water source over which the National Park Service 

has no sanitary control.

2.4 Backflow. The reversal of the normal flow of water caused by either backpressure or 

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backsiphonage.

2.5 Backpressure. The flow of water or other liquids, mixtures or substances under pressure into 

the pipes of a potable water supply system from any source(s) other than the intended source.

2.6 Backsiphonage. The flow of water or other liquids, mixtures or substances into the

distribution pipes of a potable water supply from any source(s) other than its intended 

source caused by the reduction of pressure in the potable water supply system.

2.7 Backflow Preventer. An assembly or means designed to prevent backflow.

2.7.1 Air gap. The unobstructed vertical distance through the free atmosphere between the lowest

opening from any pipe or faucet supplying water to a tank, plumbing fixture, or other 

device and the flood level rim of the vessel. An approved air gap must be at least double the 

diameter of the supply pipe, measured vertically, above the overflow rim of the vessel; and 

in no case less than one inch. 

2.7.2 Reduced Pressure Principle Assembly. An assembly of two independently acting approved 

check valves together with a hydraulically operating, mechanically independent differential

pressure relief valve located between the check valves and at the same time below the first 

check valve. The unit must include properly located resilient seated test cocks and resilient 

seated shut-off valves at each end of the assembly. The entire assembly must meet the design 

and performance specifications as determined by the Foundation for Cross Connection 

Control and Hydraulic Research at the University of Southern California (USC), University 

Park, Los Angeles, CA 90089., for backflow prevention assemblies. The assembly must

operate to maintain the pressure in the zone between the two check valves at an acceptable 

level less than the pressure on the potable water supply side of the assembly. At cessation of 

a normal flow the pressure between the two check valves must be less than the pressure on the 

public supply side of the assembly. In case of leakage of either of the check valves, the 

differential relief valve must operate to maintain the reduced pressure in the zone between the 

check valves by discharging to the atmosphere. When the inlet pressure is two pounds per 

square inch or less, the relief valve must be open to the atmosphere. To be approved , these 

assemblies must be readily accessible for in-line testing and maintenance and be installed in a 

location where no part of the assembly will be submerged. 

2.7.3 Double Check Valve Assembly An assembly of two independently operating approved check

valves with resilient seated shut-off valves on each end of the check valves, plus properly 

located resilient seated test cocks for the testing of each check valve. The entire assembly 

must meet the design and performance specifications as determined by the aforementioned 

Foundation for Cross Connection Control at USC for backflow prevention assemblies. To be 

approved, these assemblies must be readily accessible for in-line testing and maintenance.

2.8 Contamination. Means an impairment of the quality of the potable water by sewage, industrial

fluids or waste liquids, compounds or other materials to a degree which creates an actual or

potential hazard to the public health through poisoning or through the spread of disease.

2.9 Cross Connection. Any physical connection or arrangement of piping or fixtures between 

two otherwise separate piping systems one of which contains potable water and the other

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nonpotable water or industrial fluids of questionable safety, through which, or because of

which, backflow may occur into the potable water system. This would include any temporary

connections, spools, dummy section of pipe, swivel or change- over devices or sliding

multiport tube.

2.10 Cross Connections - Controlled. A connection between a potable water system and a

nonpotable assembly properly installed and maintained so that it will continuously afford the

protection commensurate with the degree of hazard.

2.11 Cross Connection Control by Containment. The installation of an approved backflow

prevention assembly at the water service connection to any building where it is physically and 

economically infeasible to find and permanently eliminate or control all actual or potential 

cross connections within the building owner’s water system; or, it means the installation of an 

approved backflow prevention assembly on the service line leading to and supplying a portion 

of a building’s water system where there are actual or potential cross connections which cannot

be effectively eliminated or controlled at the point of the cross connection. 

2.12 Hazard, Degree of. The term is derived from an evaluation of the potential risk to public health 

and the adverse effect of the hazard upon the potable watersystem.

2.12.1 Hazard - Health. Any condition, device, or practice in the water supply system and its

operation which could create, or in the judgement of the [Park Position - Chief of 

Maintenance./Facilities Management suggested here], Regional Public Health Consultant, 

or the appropriate area regulatory officials, may create a danger to the health and well-being of

the water consumer. 

2.12.2 Hazard - Plumbing. A plumbing type cross-connection in an consumer’s potable water system

that has not been properly protected by an approved air gap or approved backflow prevention

assembly.

2.12.3 Hazard - Pollution. An actual or potential threat to the physical properties of the water system

or the potability of the water supply which would constitute a nuisance, be aesthetically

objectionable, or could cause damage to the system or its appurtenances, but would not be

dangerous to health.

2.12.4 Hazard - System. An actual or potential threat of severe damage to the physical properties

of the potable water system, or of a pollution or contamination which would have a 

protracted effect on the quality of the potable water in the system. 

2.13 Industrial Fluids System. Any system containing a fluid or solution, which may be

chemically, biologically or otherwise contaminated or polluted in a form or concentration such 

as would constitute a health, system, pollution or plumbing hazard if introduced into an 

approved water supply. This may include, but not be limited to: pollution or contaminated 

waters, all types of processed waters and “used waters” originating from the public potable 

water system which may be deteriorated in sanitary quality; chemicals in fluid form; plating

acids and alkalies; circulating cooling waters connected to an open cooling tower and/or

cooling towers that are chemically or biologically treated or stabilized with toxic substances; 

contaminated natural waters such as from wells, springs, streams, rivers, irrigation canals, or

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systems, etc; oils gases, gaseous fluids used in industrial or other purposes or for firefighting

purposes, recirculating hot water systems, hot water heating systems, solar systems with

antifreeze solutions, and charged fire systems.

2.14 Pollution. Means the presence of any foreign substance (organic, inorganic or biological) in 

the water which tends to degrade the water quality so as to constitute a hazard or impair the

usefulness or quality of the water to a degree which does not create an actual hazard to the

public health but which but which does adversely and unreasonably affect such waters for

domestic use.

2.15 Water - Potable. Any water which, according to recognized standards, is safe for human 

consumption.

2.16 Water - Nonpotable. Water which is not safe for human consumption or which is of

questionably quality. 

3.0 Section 3. Requirements. 

3.1 Water System 

3.1.1 The water system is made up of two parts: the utility system and the building system. 

3.1.2 The utility system consists of the source facilities and the distribution system; and includes 

all those facilities of the water system up to the point where the building system begins. 

3.1.3 The source includes all components of the facilities utilized in the production, 

treatment, storage, and delivery of water to the distribution system. 

3.1.4 The distribution system includes the network of conduits used for the delivery of water 

from the source to the building system. 

3.1.5 The building system includes those parts of the facilities beyond the termination of the 

distribution system which are utilized in conveying delivered domestic water to points of use. 

3.2 Policy 

3.2.1 No water service connection to any premises should be installed or maintained by the National 

Park Service unless the water supply is protected by State laws and regulations and this Cross 

Connection and Backflow Prevention Policy. Service of water to any premises must be 

discontinued by the National Park Service if a backflow prevention assembly required by this 

Cross Connection and Backflow Prevention Policy is not installed, tested and maintained, or if 

it is found that a backflow prevention assembly has been removed, by-passed, or if any 

unprotected cross connection exists on the premises. Service will not be restored until such

conditions or defects are corrected.

3.2.2 The building system should be open for inspection at all reasonable times to authorized 

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representatives of the National Park Service to determine whether cross connections or other

structural or sanitary hazards, including violations of these regulations exist. When such a 

condition becomes known, the [Park Position - Chief of Maintenance./Facilities 

Management suggested here] must deny or immediately discontinue service to the 

premises by providing for a physical break in the service line until the building owner has 

corrected the condition(s) in conformance with the State and Local statutes relating to 

plumbing and water supplies and the regulations adopted pursuant thereto. 

3.2.3 An approved backflow prevention assembly must also be installed on each service line to a 

building water system at or near the property line if relevant, or immediately inside the

building being served, but , in all cases, before the first branch line leading off the service line

whenever the following conditions exist:

3.2.3.1 In the case of premises having an auxiliary water supply which is not or may not be of

safe bacteriological or chemical quality and which is not acceptable as an additional

source by the [Park Position - Chief of Maintenance./Facilities Management 

suggested here] or Regional Public Health Coordinator, the public water system 

must be protected against backflow from the premises by installing an approved 

backflow prevention assembly in the service line appropriate to the degree of hazard. 

3.2.3.2 In the case of premises on which industrial fluids, sewage, or any other objectionable

substance is handled in such a fashion as to create an actual or potential hazard to the 

public water system, the public water system must be protected against backflow from 

the premises by installing an approved backflow prevention assembly in the service line 

appropriate to the degree of hazard. This includes the handling of process waters and 

waters originating from the utility system which have been subjected to deterioration in 

quality. 

3.2.3.3 In the case of premises having (1) an internal cross connection that cannot be 

permanently corrected or controlled, or (2) intricate plumbing and piping arrangements 

or where entry to all portions of the premises is not readily accessible for inspection 

purposes, making it impracticable or impossible to ascertain whether or not dangerous 

cross connections exist, the public or nonpublic water system must be protected against 

backflow from the premises by installing an approved backflow prevention assembly in

the service line.

3.2.4 The type of protective assembly required under subsections 3.2.3.1 - 3.2.3.3 depends upon 

the degree of hazard which exists as follows:

3.2.4.1 In the case of any premises where there is an auxiliary water supply as stated in

subsection 3.2.3.1 of this section and it is not subject to regulation by the National 

Park Service, the public or nonpublic water system must be protected by an approved 

air gap separation or an approved reduced pressure principle backflow prevention 

assembly.

3.2.4.2 In the case of any premises where there is water or a substance(s) that would be

objectionable but not hazardous to health if introduced into the public or nonpublic 

water system, the public or nonpublic water system must be protected by an 

approved double check valve assembly. 

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3.2.4.3 In any case of any premises where there are “uncontrolled” cross connections,

either actual or potential, the public or nonpublic water system must be protected 

by an approved air gap separation or an approved reduced pressure principle 

backflow prevention assembly at the service connection. 

3.2.5 Any backflow prevention assembly required herein must be a model and size approved by the 

[Park Position - Chief of Maintenance./Facilities Management suggested here]. The term

“approved backflow assembly” means an assembly that has been manufactured in full

conformance with the latent standard established by the American Water Works Association

entitled:

AWWA C506 Standards for Reduced Pressure Principle and Double Check Valve 

Backflow Prevention Device and, has met the laboratory and field performance 

specifications of the Foundation for Cross Connection Control and Hydraulic Research 

of the University of Southern California established by: 

Specifications of Backflow Prevention Assemblies - Section 10 of the most 

current issue of the Manual of Cross Connection Control. 

Said AWWA and FCCC&HR standards and specifications have been adopted by the [Park 

Position - Chief of Maintenance./Facilities Management suggested here]. Final approval 

must be evidenced by a “Certificate of Approval” issued by an approved testing laboratory 

certifying full compliance with the said AWWA standards and FCCC&HR specifications. 

The following testing laboratory has been qualified by the [Park Position - Chief of 

Maintenance./Facilities Management suggested here] to test and certify backflow preventers: 

Foundation for Cross Connection Control and Hydraulic Research 

University of Southern California 

University Park

Los Angeles, CA 90089 

Testing laboratories other than the laboratory listed above will be added to an approved list as 

they are qualified by the [Park Position - Chief of Maintenance/Facilities Management 

suggested here] 

Backflow preventers, which may be subjected to backpressure or backsiphonage, that have 

been fully tested and have been granted a Certificate of Approval by said qualified laboratory

and are listed on the laboratory’s current list of “Approved backflow prevention assemblies”,

may be used without further qualification. However, annual testing by a state certified

backflow prevention specialist is required to ensure proper continual operation. 

3.2.6 It is the duty of the building owner at any premises where backflow prevention 

assemblies are installed to have certified inspections and operational tests made upon 

installation and at least once per year. In those instances where the [Park Position - Chief of 

Maintenance./Facilities Management suggested here] deems the hazard to be great enough 

he may require certified inspectors at more frequent intervals. These inspections and tests are

at the expense of the building owner and must be performed by a state certified tester. It is

Page 50 of 52
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

the duty of the [Park Position - Chief of Maintenance./Facilities Management suggested 

here] to see that these tests are made in a timely manner. The building owner must notify the 

[Park Position - Chief of Maintenance./Facilities Management suggested here] in advance 

when the tests are to be undertaken so that an official representative may witness the tests if 

so desired. These assemblies must be repaired, overhauled or replaced at the expense of the 

building owner whenever said assemblies are found to be defective. Records of the such tests, 

repairs and overhaul must be kept and made available to the [Park Position - Chief of 

Maintenance./Facilities Management suggested here] or the Regional Public Health

Consultant. 

3.2.7 All presently installed backflow assemblies which do not meet the requirements of this section

but were approved assemblies for the purpose described herein at the time of installation and 

which have been properly maintained are, except for the inspection and maintenance 

requirements under subsection 3.2.6, excluded from the requirements of these rules so long as 

the [Park Position - Chief of Maintenance./Facilities Management suggested here] and the 

Regional Public Health Consultant are assured that they will satisfactorily protect the utility 

system. Whenever the existing assembly is moved from its present location or requires more 

than the minimum maintenance or when the [Park Position - Chief of Maintenance./ 

Facilities Management suggested here] or Regional Public Health Consultant finds that the 

maintenance constitutes a hazard to health, the unit must be replaced by an approved backflow 

prevention assembly meeting all the requirements of this section. 

Page 51 of 52
 

Date:

State Certified Cross Connection Control Program Specialists 

Last Name First Name Certification Number Certification Expiration Date

Page 52 of 52
 

REFERENCE MANUAL 83A 

CHAPTER 2 

WASTEWATER TREATMENT SYSTEMS 

TABLE OF CONTENTS: 

1. WASTEWATER TREATEMENT SYSTEM POLICY.......................................................2

2. PLAN REVIEW AND APPROVAL....................................................................................2

3. OPERATOR REQUIREMENTS..........................................................................................2

4. FRONT COUNTRY WASTEWATER SYSTEMS.............................................................3

5. BACKCOUNTRY WASTEWATER SYSTEMS ................................................................3

6. MONITORING REQUIREMENTS.....................................................................................4

7. WASTEWATER SYSTEM OPERATIONAL REQUIREMENTS.....................................6

APPENDICIES: 

APPENDIX 1.0 GLOSSARY OF COMMONLY USED TERMS

APPENDIX 2.0 FREQUENTLY USED ABBREVIATIONS AND ACRONYMS 

APPENDIX 3.0 GUIDANCE TO DETERMINE WHETHER YOUR SEPTIC SYSTEM 

IS REGULATED BY THE EPA CLASS V UNDERGROUND INJECTION CONTROL 

PROGRAM RULE

APPENDIX 4.0 SEPTIC TANK SEWAGE DISPOSAL MAINTENANACE AND 

INSPCTION LOG 

APPENDIX 5.0 RAW SEWAGE SPILL NOTIFICATION & CLEANUP GUIDANCE

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1. WASTEWATER TREATEMENT SYSTEM POLICY 

1.1 National Park Service (NPS) unit managers will reduce the risk of waterborne disease

and provide safe wastewater disposal by ensuring wastewater systems are properly

operated, maintained, monitored, and deficiencies promptly corrected.

1.2 The NPS Office of Public Health (OPH) will assist park units providing safe wastewater

disposal by providing an assessment survey on the operation and maintenance of

wastewater systems. The survey is part of a larger onsite assessment classified by the 

NPS OPH as a public health assessment (PHA). 

1.3 Policy Compliance

1.3.1 Wastewater systems must be in compliance with:

1.2.1.1 Clean Water Act, as amended (33 U.S.C. 12511 et seq);

1.2.1.2 Safe Drinking Water Act, as amended (42 U.S.C. 300f 2et seq.); or,

1.2.1.3 Primacy Agency (e.g. the agency designated by Federal law as having 

oversight responsibility). 

1.3.2 Unregulated systems must be maintained in a manner similar to regulated systems 

and following best management practices.

1.3.3 Wastewater systems will be designed, constructed, and operated in accordance 

with local, state, NPS, and federal codes pertaining to wastewater systems. 

1.3.4 Any new or modified wastewater systems will be reviewed and approved by 

Director, Office of Public Health or their designee before construction starts.

Note: If hyperlinks in this document are inactive, please contact your local public health 

consultant (PHC) listed at National Park Service - Public Health. 

2. PLAN REVIEW AND APPROVAL 

2.1 When wastewater system modifications or new construction is proposed, parks will

contact the PHC to determine if plans and specifications should be submitted to the

Primacy Agency for approval. A copy of the plans and specifications will be provided to 

the PHC for approval prior to any construction. If no known codes exist for the systems, 

NPS Standard (Denver Service Center Workflows - Design Standards), American Water

Works Association (AWWA), and / or Ten State Standards should be followed. 

3. OPERATOR REQUIREMENTS 

3.1 NPS Park managers will ensure operators are adequately trained and certified in

accordance with operator requirements of the Primacy Agency. Park managers will

designate, in writing, primary operators, and backup operators who have adequate

training and skills to operate the system(s). Parks that operate only individual, on-site 

wastewater systems with no operator certification requirements will have appropriately

1 Federal Water Pollution Control Act Accessed 6/18/2019 2 Title 42—The Public Health AND Welfare Accessed 6/18/2019 

Page 2 of 22 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

trained operators. Appropriate training will be described in and approved by the regional

PHC.

3.2 All systems requiring an NPDES discharge permit, or all onsite treatment systems, as 

required by the state, must have certified operators. All other treatment systems must

have staff with adequate training and skills to operate the system. The park should 

consult with the PHC and or Primacy Agency to determine operator certification 

requirements. 

3.3 NPS Park Managers will develop training plans and assure that operators receive any

required and/or appropriate training. The NPS OPH Field Services Branch in partnership 

with NPS Facilities Management provides training on an annual basis or as funding 

permits.

4. FRONT COUNTRY WASTEWATER SYSTEMS 

4.1 Recommended front country waste systems include:

4.1.1 Centralized or decentralized wastewater systems that incorporate properly 

plumbed flush toilets and are sized to accommodate designed flows; 

4.1.2 SST Vault toilets; and, 

4.1.3 Chemical toilets (temporary use only). 

4.2 All new vault toilets will at a minimum incorporate the U.S. Forest Service Sweet 

Smelling Toilet (SST) design features and include some wildlife exclusion device in all

vent stacks. Vault toilets will be pumped as necessary. The U.S. Forest Service In-Depth 

Design and Maintenance Manual for Vault Toilets is provided as a separate workbook. 

5. BACKCOUNTRY WASTEWATER SYSTEMS 

5.1 Backcountry waste systems include:

5.1.1 Centralized or decentralized wastewater system that incorporates and is sized to 

accommodate properly plumbed flush toilets;

5.1.2 Composting toilets;

5.1.3 Barrel toilets;

5.1.4 Evaporator toilets;

5.1.5 Pit privies;

5.1.6 Moldering toilets; and,

5.1.7 Urine Diversion toilets (see NPS Reference Manual 83A-Chapter 5 Backcountry 

Operations for more information on backcountry waste disposal guidance). 

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5.2 Pit privies should only be used as a last resort where other types of facilities are not

possible. The Park Sanitarian or the PHC should approve the siting of pit privies.

5.3 Adequate sanitation facilities should be provided by Park or Concessioner for group trips

to remote areas such as river rafting trips, horseback riding trips, backcountry biking, or

backpacking groups in accordance with Reference Manual 83A- Chapter 5 Backcountry 

Operations.

5.4 Examples for proper sanitation facility operation, maintenance and design required for

the number of facilities required for campgrounds, picnic areas, etc. are included in 

"Environmental Health Practices in Recreational Areas" by the U.S. Public Health

Service, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention3. 

5.5 All facilities should be in compliance with NPS Reference Manual 83A- Chapter 5 

Backcountry Operations.

6. MONITORING REQUIREMENTS 

6.1 Permitted Facilities

6.1.1 The NPDES program’s regulations (EPA 40 CFR 1224) dictate basic monitoring

requirements for systems, which discharge into "waters of the United States.”

6.1.1.1 Systems that do not discharge any effluent are not affected by the NPDES

regulations. NPDES discharge permits are issued by the Primacy Agency 

(EPA or the State) and the permit describes the specific monitoring

requirements of a given system.

6.1.1.2 In addition to wastewater discharges, the requirements include sludge

disposal, water treatment facility discharges, non-point discharges, and 

stormwater drainage systems constructed after October 1, 1992.

6.1.2 The permit program is operated by the Primacy Agency and applies to owners or

operators of any facility, which discharges effluent. The Primacy Agency issues permits 

for a fixed term not to exceed five years. At the end of that time period, the application is

reviewed and the permit is reissued, as is, with new monitoring criteria or canceled.

6.1.3 The permit application forms are available from the Primacy Agency. It may

request information on estimated daily maximum flows, daily average flows and source

of information for each outfall for the pollutants mentioned in the NPDES permit. The

permit may require influent and effluent monitoring of BOD, COD, TOC, total solids, 

suspended solids, coliforms, flow, phosphorus, ammonia as nitrogen, and temperature

(winter and/or summer). Permits may also require monitoring of groundwater

(monitoring wells) and/or adjacent surface waters. The Primacy Agency may grant

waivers.

3 US Department of Health, Education, and Welfare: Environmental Health Practices in Recreational Areas

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6.1.4 Other Non-discharging permitted facilities may have additional monitoring

requirements determined by the Primacy Agency and operating permit. The PHC may 

require monitoring of the sludge levels if determined appropriate.

6.2 Class V Underground Injection Control Registered Facilities

6.2.1 The Primacy Agency can require any well owner to obtain a permit, monitor

injectate or close the well if there is a potential to endanger Underground Sources 

of Drinking Water.

6.2.2 Regulatory Citation

6.2.2.1 The Underground Injection Control Program does not regulate individual

residential septic systems and cesspools and non-residential septic systems 

and cesspools with the capacity to serve fewer than 20 persons per day and 

inject only sanitary waste. (EPA 40 CFR 144 Subpart G5

.)

6.2.2.2 See Appendix 3.0 “Guidance to Determine Whether Your Septic System

is regulated by the EPA Class V Underground Injection Control Program

Rule.”

6.2.2.3 Smaller onsite systems may be regulated by a State and / or county, which 

may have specific monitoring requirements.

6.3 Wastewater Treatment for Water Reuse

6.3.1 NPS approves wastewater to be treated for non-potable reuse only, and does not

allow the reuse for potable reuse.

6.3.2 All wastewater treated for reuse should meet any state or local regulations where

applicable. When no state or local regulations exist, the wastewater treatment

must meet at a minimum the 2012 EPA Guidelines for Water Reuse6 monitoring 

requirements.

6.3.3 Operator certification and/or approved training may be required by the PHC when 

State or local regulations do not exist.

6.4 Other Treatment Facilities

6.4.1 Depending upon the jurisdiction, a residential or small onsite wastewater facility

may be permitted by the State and / or county, which may have specific

monitoring requirements.

6.4.2 Non-permitted facilities do not require regular monitoring unless specifically

requested by the PHC or park sanitarian to determine operational performance.

5 CFR 2011: Title40 Vol23 - Part 144 Accessed 6/18/2019

6 EPA Guidelines for Water Reuse 2012 Accessed 6/18/2019 

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7. WASTEWATER SYSTEM OPERATIONAL REQUIREMENTS

7.1 These guidelines are provided to give NPS operators basic guidance on common systems.

However, these guidelines are not all inclusive and do not address proper operating 

procedures for operation of advanced treatment systems, including: activated sludge

plants; trickling filters; tertiary treatment; sludge digestion; physical chemical treatment;

etc. For these types of facilities, the following references should be consulted along with

the manufacturers Operation and Maintenance manual. If these references are not

available, contact the PHC.

7.1.1 Manual of Septic Tank Practice, USPHS Publication No. 526, Reprinted 1969, 

Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, 

D.C. 202017.

7.1.2 Wastewater Treatment/Disposal for Small Communities8, EPA/625/R-92/005, 

September 1992. 

7.2 Wastewater Treatment Ponds (Lagoons)

7.2.1 Lagoons should be monitored at least every two weeks for liquid coloration, 

presence of septic odors, properly operating aerators, materials floating on the

surface, insect breeding, and vegetation growth. The dikes should be free of

rodent burrows. Vegetation on the dikes and at the waterline should be

controlled.

7.2.2 All lagoons should be signed and fenced in such a manner to exclude

unauthorized entry.

7.2.3 An all-weather road should be constructed to each lagoon facility. These roads 

should be periodically graded and maintained to facilitate access for operation and 

maintenance purposes.

7.3 Septic Tank and Drainfield Systems

7.3.1 Septic tanks should be inspected annually at minimum to determine the amount of

accumulated scum and sludge.

7.3.2 Risers with appropriate covers should be provided for septic tank inspection ports

to facilitate location, inspection and pumping. Effluent filters are recommended

for all septic tank applications. These filters will be installed on all septic tank

outlets and will be cleaned per manufacturer’s instructions annually.

7.3.3 Septic tanks should be pumped when the scum and/or sludge levels in the tank 

dictate (generally every 3-5 years). The bottom of the scum mat should never be

any closer than 3 inches to the bottom of the outlet device, and the top of the

7 US Department of Health Education and Welfare: Manual of Septic Tank Practice Accessed 6/18/2019

8 EPA: Manual Wastewater Treatment/Disposal for Small Communities Accessed 6/18/2019 

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sludge layer should never be less than 8 inches from the bottom of the outlet

device. Additives to enhance bacterial growth in septic tank systems generally

are not recommended.

7.3.4 Records of septic tank measurements, inspections and pumping should be

maintained and be available for review by the PHC. See Appendix 4.0 for a

recommended septic tank log sheet and diagram, Septic Tank Sewage Disposal

Maintenance and Inspection Log.

7.3.5 Drainfields should be surveyed annually during a high use period to identify 

system failures such as odors and surfacing wastewater.

7.3.6 If a drainfield is determined to have “failed” (typically determined by the Primacy

Agency) or if surfacing sewage is observed on site by the operator, owner, or

concessioner, the park will:

7.3.6.1 Immediately shut down the system and notify the PHC and the Primacy 

Agency if applicable.

7.3.6.2 Secure the site and restrict access by the public.

7.3.6.3 Not be permitted to open the facility temporarily until a mitigation plan

has been presented and approved by the PHC and or Primacy Agency. 

7.3.6.4 Not be permitted to operate the system until it is replaced or repaired in 

accordance with applicable standards.

7.3.6.5 Develop a plan or project, to be at a minimum reviewed and approved by

park, the PHC, local or regional park engineer, and if applicable the

Primacy Agency.

7.3.7 The drainfield area is required to be kept free of trees, large bushes, or deep rooted 

vegetation, which may send roots into the drain field piping system resulting in 

clogging and premature failure of the field.

7.3.8 Inspection ports should be installed at the termination of each drain line to 

determine the depth of the wastewater effluent in the drainfield. This water level

should be measured several times during the year and at peak flow.

7.3.9 Septic tank drainfield systems should be surveyed to determine whether they fall

into the Class V Underground Injection Control Program. The Class V systems 

should then be registered with the Primacy Agency. See Appendix 3.0 “Guidance 

to Determine Whether Your Septic System is Regulated by the EPA Class V

Underground Injection Control Program Rule.”

7.3.10 Cesspools must be surveyed to identify whether they meet the definition of a 

Class V Injection Well. If the cesspools meet the definition they must be

registered as such by the Primacy Agency. Additionally, the park must work 

toward a timely closure of the cesspool and replacement with an approved onsite 

Page 7 of 22 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

system.

7.4 Alternative Onsite Treatment and Disposal Technologies

7.4.1 A qualified engineer or onsite wastewater system designer should prepare or

review plans for installation of alternative onsite wastewater systems.

7.4.2 Extensive field data gathering and alternative analyses of technologies and costs 

should be performed due to the high initial cost and long-term operational

burdens.

7.4.3 Select systems that are approved by Primacy Agency to ensure appropriate fit to

environment, availability of parts and experienced local installers or maintenance 

personnel.

7.4.4 Operation and maintenance training and manuals are required for designated 

system operators.

7.4.5 Refer to EPA technical factsheets, case studies and onsite design manuals at EPA

Onsite/Decentralized Systems Page at EPA: Septic Systems Factsheets for more

information. 

7.5 Vault Toilets

7.5.1. Vault toilets should be pumped as needed. 

7.5.2. All new installations should incorporate the U.S. Forest Service In-Depth Design 

and Maintenance Manual for Vault Toilets which is provided as a separate

workbook. 

7.5.3 All new installations should include a wildlife exclusion device in vent stacks to 

prevent nesting birds from entering and ensure proper operation of the vent. For

existing vault toilets, it is recommended that an exclusion device be added to each

vent stack. The PHC can provide guidance in the selection of a wildlife exclusion 

device.

7.6 Urine diversion/Composting/Evaporator/Incinerator Toilets

7.6.1. Urine diversion/Composting/Evaporator/Incinerator Toilets should be operated in 

accordance with manufacturer's recommendations and/or meet NSF/ANSI

standard 41 (Non-liquid saturated treatment systems).

7.6.2. If land applied the final product must meet pathogen reduction requirements and 

be disposed of in accordance with primacy agency regulations/requirements.

7.7 Chemical Toilets

7.7.1 Chemical toilets should only be used temporarily. In situations where there are 

permanent facilities, every effort should be made to replace permanent chemical

Page 8 of 22 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

toilet facilities with vault or flush toilets. In no case should chemical toilets be 

installed as permanent facilities.

7.7.2. Chemical toilets should be pumped as needed to prevent objectionable odors.

7.7.3 Chemical toilets will be cleaned as necessary to minimize the risk of contact with

waste material.

7.8 Grease Interceptors and Grease Traps

7.8.1 Installations for New Facilities

7.8.1.1 Food processing or food service facilities which are newly proposed or

constructed, or existing facilities which will be expanded or renovated to 

include a food service facility that may have grease-laden waste, where

such facility did not previously exist, is required to design, install, operate

and maintain a grease interceptor in accordance with International 

Plumbing Codes (IPC)9 or other local ordinances.

7.8.1.2 Grease interceptors will be installed and inspected prior to occupying the

building.

7.8.2 Grease interceptors at existing facilities must be operated and maintained in 

accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations and in accordance with this 

policy, unless specified in writing and approved by the PHC. 

7.8.3 All grease interceptor waste should be properly disposed of in accordance 

with federal, state, or local regulation. 

7.8.4 Cleaning and Maintenance 

7.8.4.1 Grease interceptors are required to be maintained in an efficient operating 

condition at all times. Each grease interceptor when cleaned should be 

fully evacuated.

7.8.4.2 Grease interceptors must be cleaned as often as necessary to ensure that 

sediment and floating materials do not accumulate to impair the efficiency

of the grease interceptor; to ensure the discharge is in compliance with

local discharge limits; and to ensure no visible grease is observed in 

discharge. Grease interceptors must be completely evacuated when: 

7.8.4.2.1 Twenty-five (25) percent or more of the wetted height of the 

grease trap or grease interceptor, as measured from the bottom

of the device to the invert of the outlet pipe, contains floating

materials, sediment, oils or greases; or

7.8.4.2.2 The discharge exceeds BOD, COD, TSS, FOG, pH, or other

9 International Plumbing Code Accessed 6/18/2019 

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pollutant levels established by the PHC; or

7.8.4.2.3 As recommended by PHC or park management if there is a

history of non-compliance.

7.9 Sewage Spills 

7.9.1 In the event of a sewage spill, the PHC and Primacy Agency will be notified

within one business day. Facilities and equipment contaminated with sewage as a 

result of leaks, spills, and sewage system backflow will be thoroughly washed 

down with water and park-approved detergent. Further guidance is provided in 

Appendix 5.0, “Raw Sewage Spill Notification and Cleanup Guidance”

7.9.2 Workers cleaning up wastewater spills will wear Level D personal protective 

equipment (including coveralls, rubber boots, and rubber gloves). On completion 

of the cleanup, personnel will complete the following:

7.9.2.1 Take a hot shower using sufficient soap and water.

7.9.2.2 Remove contaminated clothing and place it in a plastic bag for

laundering. This clothing will not be re-worn until it has been laundered.

7.9.2.3 Rubber boots, gloves and any other protective equipment will be cleaned

with hot water and detergent and rinsed with a 100 ppm disinfectant

solution of hypochlorite. The hypochlorite solution consists of two 

tablespoons of sodium hypochlorite (such as Purex, Clorox or other

household bleach) per gallon of water. All vaccinations requirements

should be identified through Job Hazard Analysis needs.

7.10 Other Operational Requirements

7.10.1 NPS Park Managers will assure that required records are maintained in permanent 

files for periodic review by the PHC or Primacy Agency representatives, and that

reports are submitted on a timely basis as requested by the PHC and/or required 

by the Primacy Agency. 

7.10.2 All wastewater facilities will be installed, operated and monitored in accordance

with Primacy Agency requirements or NPS policy. 

7.10.3 All toilet facilities will be cleaned and re-supplied as often as necessary to

maintain an appropriate level of sanitation. The U.S. Forest Service guidance

manual Cleaning Recreation Sites and a Sample Restroom Cleaning Protocol are 

provided as supporting documents. 

7.10.4 Personnel who routinely come into contact with sewage or who work in or inspect

wastewater treatment facilities, lagoons, etc. will have a current immunization for

tetanus. All vaccinations requirements should be identified through Job Hazard 

Analysis needs.

Page 10 of 22 
 

7.10.5 Wastewater treatment plant personnel will not eat, drink or smoke when

performing maintenance or inspecting equipment, which may be contaminated 

with human sewage. 

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APPENDIX 1.0 GLOSSARY OF COMMONLY USED TERMS 

Advanced Treatment septic system: See Alternative Onsite Treatment and Disposal

Systems.

Aerobic Wastewater Treatment: A mechanical onsite treatment unit that provides 

secondary wastewater treatment by mixing air (oxygen) and aerobic and facultative

microbes with the wastewater. ATUs typically use a suspended growth treatment process 

(similar to activated sludge extended aeration) or a fixed film treatment process (similar to

trickling filter).

Alternative Onsite Treatment and Disposal Systems: An onsite treatment system that

includes components different from those used in a conventional septic tank and drain field

system. An alternative system is used to achieve acceptable treatment and

dispersal/discharge of wastewater where conventional systems may not be capable of

meeting established performance requirements to protect public health and water resources. 

(e.g., at sites where high groundwater, low-permeability soils, shallow soils, or other 

conditions limit the infiltration and dispersal of wastewater or where additional treatment is

needed to protect groundwater or surface water quality). Components that might be used in 

alternative systems include sand filters, aerobic treatment units, disinfection devices, and

alternative subsurface wastewater infiltration systems (SWISs) such as mounds, gravelless

trenches, and pressure and drip distribution. 

Anaerobic Wastewater Treatment: Waste stabilization brought about through the action 

of microorganisms in the absence of oxygen. 

Backcountry: Determinations of “backcountry” will be made on a park-by-park basis, 

taking into account the park area’s geographic circumstances. Backcountry water and 

wastewater systems are most often found in areas that are remote from developed areas and

are not readily serviceable by motorized vehicles.

Barrel Toilet: A toilet that collects waste in a barrel or drum that can be sealed when full

and transported by truck or helicopter to a treatment plant for proper disposal.

Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD): The amount of oxygen required to stabilize

decomposable organic matter.

Biosolids: Treated sewage sludge that meets the EPA pollutant and pathogen requirements

for land application and surface disposal. Federal regulations governing biosolids and 

composting process can be found in the 40 CFR Part 50310, Standards for the Use and 

Disposal of Sewage Sludge (Part 503). The regulation defines time and temperature 

requirements for both Class A and Class B products.

Cesspool: Covered, open-joint, walled pits that receive raw sewage.

Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD): The amount of oxygen required to stabilize

decomposable organic and oxidizable inorganic material.

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Chemical Toilet: A toilet that collects wastes in a small storage container filled with a 

chemical disinfectant, which destroys microorganisms and controls odor. A chemical toilet

is usually covered with an enclosed insect proof structure. 

Class V Injection Well: Class V injection wells are typically shallow “wells,” such as 

shallow disposal systems (drain fields) and dry wells, used to place a variety of fluids 

directly below the land surface EPA (40 CFR 144.80 (e)11).

Coliform: A group of bacteria commonly found in soil and intestines of man and other

warm-blooded animals. The presence of coliforms in surface and/or ground waters is a

general indicator of recent human and/or animal fecal contamination. 

Composting Toilet: A toilet that promotes managed (thermophilic) aerobic decomposition 

of organic waste into stable, mature, and sanitized end-product low in contaminants and 

foreign matter, which would not cause deleterious environmental impacts if land 

applied. (Haug 1993, Wichuk and McCartney, 2010, Hill and Baldwin 201212).

Confined Space: Any space that by design has limited openings for entry and exit; 

unfavorable natural ventilation which could contain or produce dangerous air contaminants, 

and which is not intended for continuous employee occupancy. Confined spaces include

but are not limited to storage tanks, ship compartments, process vessels, pits, vats, silos, 

degreasers, reaction vessels, boilers, ventilation and exhaust ducting, sewers, manholes, 

tunnels, trenches, underground utilities, septic tanks, wet wells, and pipelines. 

Dissolved Solids: The material contained in a liquid, which can pass through a glass fiber 

filter. Examples include iron, calcium, magnesium, potassium and sodium in combination 

with chloride, sulfate, bicarbonate, carbonate and nitrate. 

Effluent: Wastewater flowing out of a reservoir, basin, sewage treatment plant, industrial

treatment plant or marine sanitation device.

Effluent Filter: A removable, cleanable device inserted into the outlet piping of the septic 

tank designed to trap excessive solids due to tank upsets that would otherwise be 

transported to the subsurface wastewater infiltration system or other downstream treatment

components. 

Evaporator Toilet: A toilet that evaporates liquid from human waste to decrease the

weight prior to removal from the site.

Fecal Coliform: A group of bacteria in the coliform group, which inhabits the intestines of 

all warm-blooded animals. The presence of fecal coliforms in surface and/or ground waters 

is a good indicator of recent human and/or animal fecal contamination. 

Front Country Systems: Those systems easily accessible by motorized vehicle and boat.

Grease Interceptor: An appurtenance or appliance that is installed in a sanitary drainage

system to intercept non- petroleum fats, oils and grease (FOG) from a wastewater. There 

11 CFR 2002: Title 40 - Vol19 - Sec 144-80 Accessed 6/18/2019 Page 13 of 22 12 The Effectiveness and Safety of Vermi-Versus Conventional Accessed 6/18/2019 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

are two types of Grease interceptors, Gravity Grease Interceptors and Hydromechanical

Grease Interceptors. Grease interceptors have a flow rate of greater than 50 gallons per

minute. 

Grease Interceptor, Gravity: A plumbing appurtenance or appliance that is installed in a

sanitary drainage system to intercept non-petroleum fats, oils, and greases (FOG) from a 

wastewater discharge and is identified by volume, 30-minute retention time, baffle(s), a

minimum of two compartments, a minimum total volume of 300 gallons, and gravity 

separation. These interceptors are designed by a registered professional engineer. Gravity 

Grease Interceptors are generally installed outside.

Grease Interceptor, Hydromechanical: A plumbing appurtenance or appliance that is

installed in a sanitary drainage system to intercept nonpetroleum fats, oils, and grease

(FOG) from a wastewater discharge and is identified by flow rate, and separation and 

retention efficiency. The design incorporates air entrainment, hydromechanical separation, 

interior baffling, and/or barriers in combination or separately, and an external flow control,

with air intake (vent).

Grease Trap: An appurtenance or appliance that is installed in a sanitary drainage system

to intercept non- petroleum fats, oils and grease (FOG) from a wastewater. Grease traps 

have a flow rate of less than 50 gallons per minute. Grease traps are generally used on an 

individual sink basis or for kitchens with little water or grease use. These units generally 

require more servicing: either daily by staff or up to a month by specialists.

Intrinsically Safe: Equipment or space designed so that there is no possibility of creating 

an ignition source. Such equipment and spaces are typically used and/or required when 

highly flammable material is being used. 

Lagoon: A pond containing raw or partially treated wastewater in which aerobic, 

facultative and/or anaerobic stabilization occurs.

Large Capacity Cesspool as defined by EPA’s Class V Underground Injection Control 

Program: Residential multiple-dwelling, community, or regional systems (e.g., townhouse

complexes or apartment buildings) that dispose of sanitary waste, or non-residential 

cesspools that have the capacity to serve 20 or more persons per day (e.g., rest areas or

churches) if they receive solely sanitary waste.

Large Capacity Septic System (LCSS) as defined by EPA’s Class V Underground 

Injection Control Program: LCSSs are an on-site method for partially treating and 

disposing of sanitary wastewater. Only those septic systems having the capacity to serve

20 or more persons-per-day are included within the scope of the underground injection 

control (UIC) regulations with the exception of septic systems introducing chemicals to a

drain field. LCSSs consist of a gravity fed, underground septic tank or tanks, effluent

distribution system, and a soil absorption system. LCSSs may also include grease 

interceptors, several small septic tanks, a septic tank draining into a well, connections to

one large soil absorption system, or a set of multiple absorption systems that can be used on

a rotating basis. 

Large On-Site Septic Systems: On-site septic tank and drainfield systems that receive 

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NPDES: The National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System is a permit system

developed by the EPA to regulate discharge of pollutants into waters of the United 

States. Legislative discussion is found at EPA 40 CFR 12213. 

Permit: An authorization, license, or equivalent control document issued by EPA or an 

"approved State" to implement the requirements of NPDES (National Pollutant Discharge

Elimination System), or an operating permit unique to the state or according to the size of

the system for example a Large Onsite Septic Tank.

Primacy Agency: A Federal, State, or County agency authorized by the Environmental

Protection Agency (EPA) to administer the program. If a state has not requested this 

authorization, the EPA is the Primacy Agency. 

Primary Treatment: The physical removal of solids from wastewater involving settling or

flotation.

Privy: A hole dug in the ground for the disposal of human waste and covered by an insect

proof building. 

Public Health Assessment: A public health assessment is a combination of on-site 

sanitary surveys of safe drinking water systems, wastewater systems, disease surveillance,

food safety inspections, recreational water surveys, public health in backcountry operations, 

and promoting health in park units.

Sanitary Survey: A detailed investigation of the features of a wastewater system and

conditions, which may impact the ability of the system to adequately, treat wastewater.

Secondary Treatment: Biological treatment of wastewater which produces an effluent

with a monthly average of 30 mg/l of BOD and suspended solids, 200 fecal coliform/100 

ml and a pH between 6 and 9. 

Septage: The liquid and solid material removed from a septic tank, cesspool, vault toilet or

similar domestic wastewater treatment system, or holding tank when the system is cleaned

or maintained. 

Septic Tank: A watertight, covered tank designed and constructed to receive sewage from

a building sewer. It separates solids from the liquid, digests organic matter; stores digested

solids through a period of detention, and allows clarified liquids to discharge. 

Sludge Digestion: The further decomposition and stabilization of solids removed from

primary and secondary treatment processes. This process uses microorganisms, which can 

be either aerobic or anaerobic.

Suspended Solids: Those solids that are visible and in suspension in water.

Tertiary Treatment: Additional treatment following secondary treatment designed to

achieve a specific effluent quality determined by the Primacy Agency.

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Total Organic Carbon (TOC): A measure of the total carbon as carbon dioxide in a

liquid after all inorganic carbon has been removed or accounted for. 

Total Solids: The combined sum of the suspended and the dissolved solid material in 

wastewater.

Urine Diversion Toilet - This is a waterless toilet designed to divert urine away from

human feces either by gravity or mechanical means. The diverted urine is treated by an 

engineered method acceptable to the local jurisdiction, the NPS Sanitarian, or PHC. The

resulting solid waste is removed for disposal after the material decomposes and

stabilizes. Some urine may contact the fecal matter indirectly, but effective urine diversion

systems should redirect the majority of the urine away from and prior to the fecal

material. Improper drainage of urine through the active pile of fecal waste will liquefy the

fecal material creating odors and making the removal of solids very difficult. 

Vault Toilet: A toilet designed to completely retain all waste materials deposited into it. 

The tank must be emptied periodically and the wastes properly disposed. It requires 

adequate ventilation to control odor and should be easily pumped out. The tank is usually 

covered with an enclosed, insect proof structure. The toilet should incorporate the U.S. 

Forest Service In-Depth Design and Maintenance Manual for Vault Toilets, which is 

provided as a separate workbook. 

Wastewater: Liquids and water borne solids from domestic, industrial or commercial uses 

that have been used in man's activities. If improperly controlled or inadequately treated can 

cause human illness and/or pollution of the environment. 

Waters of the United States: All natural ground and surface waters that meet the criteria

of 40 CFR 122.214. 

Water Reuse: The use of wastewater that has been treated to meet specific water quality

criteria with the intent of being used for a range of purposes. 

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APPENDIX 2.0 FREQUENTLY USED ABBREVIATIONS AND ACRONYMS 

ANSI: American National Standards Institute

ATU: Aerobic Treatment Unit

AWWA: American Water Works Association

BOD: Biological Oxygen Demand

CDC: Centers of Disease Control and Prevention

CFR: Code of Federal Regulations

CWA: Clean Water Act

COD: Chemical Oxygen Demand

DO: Directors Order

FOG: Fats, Oils, and Grease

FSB: Field Services Branch

IPC: International Plumbing Codes

LCC: Large Capacity Cesspool

LCSS: Large Capacity Septic System

NPS: National Park Service

NPDES: National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System

NSF: National Science Foundation

OPH: Office of Public Health

PHA: Public Health Assessment

PHC: Public Health Consultant 

RM: Reference Manual

SDWA: Safe Drinking Water Act

SST: Sweet Smelling Toilet

SWIS: Subsurface Wastewater Infiltration System

TOC: Total Organic Carbon 

UIC: Underground Injection Control

USC: United States Code

USEPA: United States Environmental Protection Agency

USPHS: United States Public Health Service

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APPENDIX 3.0 GUIDANCE TO DETERMINE WHETHER YOUR SEPTIC SYSTEM 

IS REGULATED BY THE EPA CLASS V UNDERGROUND INJECTION CONTROL 

PROGRAM RULE 

Answer the following questions to determine if you have a Septic System Regulated by the

Class V UIC regulations.

Questions: No Yes 

1.Does your system have

a capacity to serve 20 or

more persons per day?

You are not affected by

the rule.

You must register your 

system with the primacy

agency.

2. Does your system introduce

any form of chemical to a drain

field?

You are not affected by

the rule.

You must register your

system with the primacy

agency regardless of the

A i septic system is considered a Large Capacity Septic System (LCSS) if it receives solely 

sanitary waste either from multiple dwellings, or from a nonresidential establishment, where

the system has the total capacity to serve 20 or more persons per day. In addition to the

typical gravity-fed underground septic tank, effluent distribution system, and soil absorption

area, LCSSs may have grease traps or other pre- treatment technologies, several small septic

tanks, septic tanks that drain into a dry well, and connections to one large soil absorption

system or multiple absorption areas that can be used on a rotating basis.

In general, LCSSs may be found serving the following facilities in our parks:

• residential housing clustered or septic tank effluent pumping systems

• office and commercial buildings (visitor centers)

• campgrounds

• recreation vehicle (RV) parks

• rest areas with comfort stations

• concession facilities including hotels and restaurants

• septic systems receiving waste from an industrial facility, including vehicle

maintenance buildings

Owners and/or operators of large capacity septic systems (LCSS), are required to meet State*

and Federal requirements. The minimum Federal requirements for Class V wells are:

1. Obey the non-endangerment performance standard prohibiting injection that allows the

movement of fluids containing any contaminant into underground sources of drinking water,

if the presence of that contaminant may cause a violation of any primary drinking water

regulation or adversely affect public health; and

2. Provide inventory information (including facility name and location, legal contact name and

address, ownership information, nature and type of injection wells, and operating status of

the injection wells) to the state or EPA regional UIC Program.

* States may have additional or more stringent requirements.

Page 18 of 22 
 

 

APPENDIX 4.0 SEPTIC TANK SEWAGE DISPOSAL MAINTENANACE AND INSPCTION LOG 

Name of System: Location of System: 

Inside Tank Dimensions **See Back of Sheet for Illustration** ID Clay CI PVC Wood Concrete

Width: Length: Depth: Gallons: Tank

Distance from inlet to Tank Bottom: (A) Baffle

Distance from Tee (or Baffle) to Tank Bottom: (B) D Box

Distance from Outlet Pipe Invert to Tank Bottom: (C) Inlet

Outlet

Septic Tank Measurements

Date D E F G H Remarks Distribution Box Absorption Field Remarks

D = Distance from Scum Top to Tank Bottom E = Distance from Scum Bottom to Tank Bottom F = Sludge Depth

G = E-B (If less than 3” Tank is to be pumped) H = B-F (If less than 6-8” Tank is to be pumped)

Page 19 of 22 
 

 

 

Typical Tank Diagram

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APPENDIX 5.0 RAW SEWAGE SPILL NOTIFICATION & CLEANUP GUIDANCE 

Raw Sewage Spill Notification 

• All raw sewage spills and overflows require a verbal notification within one business day

to the Superintendent, Occupational Health and Safety office, and the Public Health

Consultant (PHC). The NPS Unit Manager is responsible for notifying State and local

authorities.

• Any raw sewage spills or overflows exceeding 1,000 gallons require a written follow-up

report within two working days to the Park Superintendent, PHC, Primacy Agency

(usually the State/Local Health Authority) and anyone else the NPS Unit Manager deems

necessary.

• In the event of a fish kill, immediately notify the appropriate divisions within the park as

well as the appropriate primacy department/division/agency. Provide updates as needed.

• When leaving a message please provide your name, return phone number, location of

spill/overflow (include cross streets and nearest address), rate of flow, volume, surface

water bodies impacted, agencies that have responded if known, cause of spill and the

repair and cleanup actions undertaken.

• If there are known downstream drinking water sources all potentially affected individuals

and system operators should be contacted of spills that may effect their water quality.

The written report must include: 

Include all of the above information and the duration of the incident, size of the affected area,

and the agency contacts made during the notification. Also, provide a detailed description of

the repair and cleanup actions taken, and a statement on what steps will be taken to 

minimize/prevent a spill or overflow recurrence.

Dry Weather Cleanup & Posting: 

1. Post sign(s) warning the public of the release with at least the wording of "raw sewage."

Restrict public access to spill affected area. The public should be advised of the potential

health risks and warn them not to enter the affected area.

2. Health warnings must remain posted until PHC and/or Primacy Agency authorizes their

removal or sampling results indicate that there is no risk to human health.

3. Contain and divert the flow to the nearest sanitary sewer or collect with a vacuum truck.

4. After the flows have been stopped and repairs made, rake or vacuum up raw sewage solids. 

The solids should be bagged and disposed of in a landfill. Workers must wear appropriate 

PPE (disposable gloves, disposable tyvex suits, rubber boots, face shield or splashguard) and 

thoroughly wash off after clean up has been completed.

5. Flush the affected area with clean water and divert runoff into the nearest sewer. If there is

potential human contact to the raw sewage, such as a campground, the affected area should be 

roped-off and quarantined until the Park/PHC/Primacy Agency deems it is safe. Treatment of 

the site may include dusting of granular HTH or the application of a weak

anhydrous lime/water mixture. However, the general use of disinfectants is not Page 21 of 22 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

recommended for all raw sewage spills due to potential toxicity to fish and wildlife. Contact

the PHC for more information.

6. Sampling should be conducted upstream and downstream in receiving water per Primacy

Agency requirements. If there are no Primacy Agency requirements, samples should be

analyzed for fecal coliform.

Wet Weather Cleanup & Posting: 

The same as Dry Weather Cleanup & Posting, flushing with water and sampling may be

omitted if storm water flow is high and sampling is impractical.

Please insert emergency phone numbers here: 

Contact Phone Number 

NPS Unit Manager

Public Health Consultant

Park office (after hours)

Local Primacy Agency

Other

Other

Raw sewage Spill Notification and Minimum Cleanup Procedures is a re-write of the San 

Francisco Bay Regional Water Quality Control Board's “Sewage Spill Notification and 

Cleanup Response Requirements for Sewage Collection Agencies.” 

Page 22 of 22 
 

 

 

 

REFERENCE MANUAL 83A 

CHAPTER 3 

FOOD SAFETY 

TABLE OF CONTENTS: 

1.0 GENERAL POLICY....................................................................................................................................... 2

2.0 OPERATIONAL RATINGS FOR FOOD ESTABLISHMENTS ................. ..................................................2

3.0 TEMPORARY FOOD EVENTS..................................................................................................................3

APPENDICIES: 

APPENDIX A: OPERATIONAL SCORE POINT VALUES...........................................................4 

APPENDIX B: DESCRIPTION OF POLICY, TRAINING, VERIFICATION (PTV) RATINGS.................5 

Page 1 of 12
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1.0 GENERAL POLICY 

NPS unit managers will minimize the risk of foodborne illness by assuring food service operations within park 

boundaries are in compliance with the relevant sections of the most recent version of the Model Food Code 

provided by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. 

The Food Code is available for download at: 

https://www.fda.gov/Food/GuidanceRegulation/RetailFoodProtection/FoodCode/ucm595139.htm1

Or for public sale by: 

U.S. Department of Commerce

National Technical Information Service

5301 Shawnee Road, Alexandria, VA 22312 

Phone: 1-800-553-6847 

2.0 OPERATIONAL RATINGS FOR FOOD ESTABLISHMENTS 

The Public Health Consultant (PHC) will assign a Satisfactory, Marginal or Unsatisfactory rating for each Food 

Service Sanitation Report based on an operational score that may be adjusted by the level of Policies, Training, 

and Verification (PTV) exhibited by the food facility. 

The operational score will begin with a zero and increase as violations are noted. Violations will have a point 

range between 1 and 20 points. Priority violations will have a point value of 15 or 20 points; Priority 

Foundation violations will be weighted as 5 or 10 points; and Core violations will be either 1 or 3 points. The 

total number of points will be summed to determine the operational score. Appendix A contains a complete list 

of point values. 

The operational score will determine the rating. If an imminent health hazard exists an “Unsatisfactory” rating 

will be issued regardless of the point total. An imminent health hazard is a significant threat or danger to health 

that is considered to exist when there is sufficient evidence to show that a product, practice, circumstance, or 

event creates a situation requiring immediate correction or cessation of operation to prevent injury based on: (a) 

The number of potential injuries, and (b) The nature, severity, and duration of the anticipated injury. 

The rating will be assigned as indicated in Table 1.

Table 1. Operational Rating Criteria for Food Establishments 

Rating Criteria

Satisfactory • Operational score between 0 – 48, and

• No imminent health hazards, and

• General compliance with timeframes for correction that have been

approved and directed by the PHC

Marginal • Operational score between 49-68, and

1 Last accessed on April 29, 2019

Page 2 of 12
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Rating Criteria

• No imminent health hazards, and

• General compliance with timeframes for correction that have been

approved and directed by the PHC

Unsatisfactory • Operational score of 69 or greater, and/or

• Imminent health hazards, and/or

• Failure to comply with timeframes for correction of previous violations

that have been approved and directed by the PHC

Operators are eligible to have the final rating of any Food Service Sanitation Report raised by one operational 

level if they submit a formal written Food Safety Plan (FSP) to their PHC and their FSP is approved by the 

PHC. The FSP must be submitted annually to the PHC for review and approval in order to be eligible for this 

program. 

For restaurants and snack bars, the PHC will gather sufficient information to rate the level of control that an 

operation exhibits over the risk factors for foodborne illness utilizing the guidance in Appendix B. 

Information may be gathered from the observation of practices, interviewing of staff management or review 

of policies and records. The individual ratings will be averaged to create an overall management index score. 

A management index score of 4.0 (well-developed) or higher may be used to raise the overall facility rating 

one category. 

3.0 TEMPORARY FOOD EVENTS 

In addition to the items listed below, temporary food events, within park jurisdiction, are required to comply 

with all of the relevant sections of the Model Food Code. 

3.1 The Person in Charge will have a current Food Safety Manager Certification. 

3.2 The application for the food event must be submitted and approved at a minimum of two weeks prior to 

the start of the event. Applications may be required to be submitted earlier than two weeks depending 

upon the number of vendors or the specific park region.

3.3 The menu will be limited to only the approved items in the application.

3.4 If food is prepared offsite, it may only be done in a pre-approved licensed food establishment. A copy 

of the facility permit to operate from the local health department, a copy of the most recent health 

inspection report (less than 1 year old), and an establishment agreement, along with how the food will be

transported must be submitted with the application. 

3.5 If cooling of food items will occur, a completed cooling log must accompany the food product.

3.6 An appropriate handwashing facility must be readily accessible at all times that foodhandling is

occurring.

3.7 A three-compartment sink (or equivalent) must be provided for warewashing. 

3.8 Counter protection (sneeze guards) must be provided if food is to be held on the counter for serving. 

3.9 Tables, stands, pallets or other devices must be used to keep all food, utensils, single-service/use,

equipment, food preparation, and other operations off the ground or pavement.

3.10 Liquid waste is disposed of in an approved manner and not on the ground or in storm drains.

3.11Sufficient trash receptacles are provided and serviced to preclude the accumulation of refuse outside of

these containers.

Page 3 of 12
 

Appendix A 

Operational Score Point Values 

Code Violation Points Code Violation Points 

PRIORITY VIOLATIONS 

2-201.12 Exclude sick or ill employees 20 2-301.14 When to wash hands 20 

3-301.11 Contamination from Employee’s Hands 20 3-401.11 Cooking to Proper Temperatures 20 

3-401.14 Non-Continuous Cooking of Raw Animal 

Foods 20 3-402.11 Freezing Food for Parasite Destruction 20 

3-501.14 Improper Cooling 20 3-501.18 Ready-to-Eat Potentially Hazardous Food 

disposition 20 

3-501.19 Time as a Public Health Control 20 3-502.12 Reduced Oxygen Packaging 20 

3-701.11 Discarding Contaminated Food 20 4-501.111 Warewashing Sanitizer Water Temperature 20 

4-501.114 Improper Sanitizer Method 20 4-602.11 Food Contact Surfaces cleaning frequency 20 

4-702.11 Equipment sanitizing frequency 20 4-703.11 Improper Sanitizer Concentration 20 

5-102.12 Using non-Potable water 20 5-201.11 Using unapproved materials plumbing 

materials 20 

5-202.13 Not having an air gap when required 20 5-202.14 Using an unapproved backflow preventer 20 

5-203.14 Not having a backflow device when 

required 20 5-205.12 Creating a cross-connection 20 

5-205.15 Not maintaining a plumbing system in good 

repair 20 5-301.11 Use of approved materials in a mobile water 

tank 20 

5-302.16 Identifying potable water hoses 20 5-303.11 Mobile water tanks – filter to remove oil from 

pressurized air 20 

5-304.14 Mobile systems dedicating equipment 20 5-402.11 No cross connections with the sewage 

system 20 

5-403.11 Approved sewage disposal facility 20 7-201.11 Storage of poisonous or toxic chemicals 20 

7-203.11 No reuse of chemical containers for food 20 8-404.11 Imminent Health Hazard 20 

ALL OTHER PRIORITY VIOLATIONS 15 Points 

PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATIONS 

2-102.11 Demonstration of Knowledge 10 2-301.15 Where to wash hands 10 

3-202.18 Shellstock Identification 10 3-401.13 Plant Foods for Hot Holding 10 

3-501.15 Cooling Methods 10 4-202.11 Food Contact Surfaces Cleanability 10 

4-204.112 Equipment Thermometers Present 10 4-301.11 Sufficient Cooling, Hot and Cold Holding 

Facilities 10 

4-302.14 Sanitizer test kit Present 10 4-501.17 Warewashing cleaning agents 10 

4-501.110 Warewasher wash solution temperature 10 4-501.112 Warewasher sanitizer water temperature 10 

4-601.11 Food contact surfaces clean to sight and 

touch 10 5-102.13 Water System sampling is conducted 10 

5-104.11 Water is received from an approved system 10 5-202.12 Handwashing sink is properly installed 10 

5-203.11 Enough Handsinks are installed 10 5-204.11 Handsinks are properly located 10 

5-402.14 Removing of mobile food establishment 

wastes 10 6-301.11 Hand soap is available at handsinks 10 

6-301.12 Hand drying device available at handsink 10 6-302.11 Toilet tissue available at toilet 10 

ALL OTHER PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATIONS 5 Points 

CORE VIOLATIONS 

2-301.13 Special handwash procedures 3 2-401.11 Eating, Drinking or Using Tobacco near food 

or a food contact surface 3 

4-402.11 Hair restraint effectiveness 3 3-302.15 Washing fruits and vegetables prior to use 3 

3-401.12 Microwave cooking procedures 3 3-501.13 Improper Thawing 3 

4-101.12 Improper use of cast iron 3 4-101.16 Improper use of sponges 3 

4-201.11 Equipment designed to be durable 3 4-202.13 Improper use “V” type threads 3 

4-204.17 Separation of drains from ice units 3 4-501.16 Use limitation of warewashing sinks 3 

5-203.12 Sufficient toilets and urinals are present 3 5-203.15 Carbonator backflow device design 3 

5-401.11 Mobile sewage holding tank is sufficient 

size 3 6-202.13 Insect control devices are properly designed 

and installed 3 

6-303.11 Sufficient Lighting 3 6-501.112 Removing dead or trapped pests 3 

8-201.13 When a HACCP plan is required 3 8-404.12 Resumption of Operations 3 

ALL OTHER CORE VIOLATIONS 1 Points 

Page 4 of 12
 

 

 

 

Appendix B 

Description of Policy, Training, Verification (PTV) Ratings 

The ratings will use the following general criteria in assessing the level of control of a particular risk factor. Specific examples are attached below.

 1 

Non-Existent 

No system is in place or the risk factors are observed out of control or are at an imminent risk of being out of control 

2 Underdeveloped 

System is in early development. Efforts are being made, but there are crucial gaps 

3 

Basic 

System has been developed that meets minimum requirements. It may be in written or oral form. 

4 

Well-Developed 

System is fully developed and meets minimum requirements. Procedures are written, training is regularly provided, and regular self- assessments are performed. 

5 

Proactive 

System goes above and beyond minimum requirements. The facility uses the self- assessments and ongoing training to further tighten control over the risk factors. 

Below is a non-exhaustive list of examples of actions that would meet the criteria. Depending upon the nature of the food facility and staff other

options could be implemented.

Risk Factor Rating Policy Training Verification 

Non-Existent No Procedure No Training No Verification Occurring 

Underdeveloped Procedures either written or verbal do not address Basic 

level of criteria. 

Training does not address Basic level of 

criteria. 

Verification does not address procedures or 

is inconsistent 

Employee Health 

Basic Procedure either written or verbal that covers: 

• Reporting of illness by current or prospective 

employees 

• Exclusion/Restriction of ill employees 

• Reporting diagnosed employee illnesses to 

NPS 

Training covers Basic procedure criteria and 

occurs at least at initial hire. 

Verification of daily compliance with Basic 

level procedures occurs periodically. 

Well-Developed Procedure is written and includes Basic level of criteria 

plus: 

Examples: 

• Written employee reporting agreements 

• Employee sign off sheets 

Training covers Well-Developed procedure 

criteria plus: 

• Employees can verbalize or 

demonstrate procedures 

• A training record is maintained 

• Periodic refresher training is 

provided 

Written verification of well-developed criteria 

occurs on a frequent basis. 

Examples: 

• Logging employee symptom 

reports 

Page 5 of 12
 

 

Proactive Procedures cover Well-Developed level of criteria plus: 

Examples: 

• Incentives for employees not to work while ill 

• Regular interview and updating procedure 

Training covers Proactive procedure criteria 

plus: 

Examples: 

• Utilizing a variety of training 

materials/methods 

• Reinforce training regularly 

• Training program is 

reviewed/revised regularly to meet 

needs 

Written verification covers Proactive criteria 

and information gained from verification is 

used to minimize foodborne illness risk. 

Examples: 

• Analysis of trends and action plans 

to provide long term corrections to 

deficiencies 

Risk Factor Rating Policy Training Verification 

Preventing 

Contamination 

from Hands 

Non-Existent No Procedure No Training No Verification Occurring 

Underdeveloped Procedures either written or verbal do not address Basic 

level of criteria. 

Training does not address Basic level of 

criteria. 

Verification does not address procedures or 

is inconsistent 

Basic Procedure either written or verbal that covers: 

• Where handsinks are located and directing 

employees to wash hands in handsink only 

• How to wash hands 

• When to wash hands 

• No bare hand contact with Ready-to-eat food 

items 

Training covers Basic procedure criteria and 

occurs at least at initial hire. 

Verification of daily compliance with Basic 

level procedures occurs periodically. 

Well-Developed Procedure is written and includes Basic level of criteria 

plus: 

Examples: 

• Addresses use of hand sanitizers (if used) 

Training covers Well-Developed procedure 

criteria plus: 

Examples: 

• Employees can verbalize or 

demonstrate procedures for these 

criteria 

• Keeps a training record 

• Periodic refresher training offered 

Written verification of well-developed criteria 

occurs on a frequent basis. 

Proactive Procedures cover Well-Developed level of criteria plus: 

Examples: 

• Use of signs and posters 

• Regular review and updating of procedure 

• Regular opportunities for employees to wash 

their hands 

• Creating a culture of handwashing 

Training covers Proactive procedure criteria 

plus: 

Examples: 

• Utilizing a variety of training 

materials/methods 

• Reinforce training regularly 

• Training program is 

reviewed/revised regularly to meet 

needs 

Written verification covers Proactive criteria 

and information gained from verification is 

used to minimize foodborne illness risk. 

Examples: 

• Use of a handwash counter 

• Analysis of trends and action plans 

to provide long term corrections to 

deficiencies 

Page 6 of 12
 

 

Risk Factor Rating Policy Training Verification 

Approved Source 

Non-Existent No Procedure No Training No Verification Occurring 

Underdeveloped Procedures either written or verbal do not address Basic 

level of criteria. 

Training does not address Basic level of 

criteria. 

Verification does not address procedures or 

is inconsistent 

Basic Procedure either written or verbal that covers: 

• Obtaining food only from approved sources 

• Storing PHF promptly 

• Inspecting deliveries for signs of spoilage, 

damage, etc. 

• Receiving Potentially Hazardous Food (PHF) 

at 41F or less 

Training covers Basic procedure criteria and 

occurs at least at initial hire. 

Verification of daily compliance with Basic 

level procedures occurs periodically. 

Well-Developed Procedure is written and includes Basic level of criteria 

plus: 

Examples: 

• Specific position designated for doing 

receiving 

Training covers Well-Developed procedure 

criteria plus: 

Examples: 

• Employees can verbalize or 

demonstrate procedures for these 

criteria 

• Keeps a training record 

• Periodic refresher training offered 

Written verification of well-developed criteria 

occurs on a frequent basis. 

Examples 

• Lists of approved vendors 

• Records of receiving temperatures 

Proactive Procedures cover Well-Developed level of criteria plus: 

Examples: 

• Supplier audits/certifications to ensure they 

are meeting food safety requirements 

Training covers Proactive procedure criteria 

plus: 

Examples: 

• Utilizing a variety of training 

materials/methods 

• Reinforce training regularly 

• Training program is 

reviewed/revised regularly to meet 

needs 

Written verification covers Proactive criteria 

and information gained from verification is 

used to minimize foodborne illness risk. 

Examples: 

• Analysis of trends and action plans 

to provide long term corrections to 

deficiencies 

Page 7 of 12
 

 

Risk Factor Rating Policy Training Verification 

Protection from 

Contamination 

Non-Existent No Procedure No Training No Verification Occurring 

Underdeveloped Procedures either written or verbal do not address Basic 

level of criteria. 

Training does not address Basic level of 

criteria. 

Verification does not address procedures or 

is inconsistent 

Basic Procedure either written or verbal that covers: 

• Washing, rinsing, and sanitizing of foodcontact surfaces 

• Protection and separation of food 

• Proper disposition of returned, previously 

served, reconditioned, and unsafe food 

Training covers Basic procedure criteria and 

occurs at least at initial hire. 

Verification of daily compliance with Basic 

level procedures occurs periodically. 

Well-Developed Procedure is written and includes Basic level of criteria 

plus: 

Examples: 

• Sanitizing schedule for food-contact surfaces 

• Food storage charts 

Training covers Well-Developed procedure 

criteria plus: 

Examples: 

• Employees can verbalize or 

demonstrate procedures for these 

criteria 

• Keeps a training record 

• Periodic refresher training offered 

Written verification of well-developed criteria 

occurs on a frequent basis. 

Examples 

• Log of returned food 

• Record of sanitizer concentration 

checks 

Proactive Procedures cover Well-Developed level of criteria plus: 

Examples: 

• Designated storage areas for food items 

• Use of color coded utensils for specific items 

Training covers Proactive procedure criteria 

plus: 

Examples: 

• Utilizing a variety of training 

materials/methods 

• Reinforce training regularly 

• Training program is 

reviewed/revised regularly to meet 

needs 

Written verification covers Proactive criteria 

and information gained from verification is 

used to minimize foodborne illness risk. 

Examples: 

• Analysis of trends and action plans 

to provide long term corrections to 

deficiencies 

Page 8 of 12
 

 

Risk Factor Rating Policy Training Verification 

Cooking of 

Potentially

Hazardous Food 

Non-Existent No Procedure No Training No Verification Occurring 

Underdeveloped Procedures either written or verbal do not address Basic 

level of criteria. 

Training does not address Basic level of 

criteria. 

Verification does not address procedures or 

is inconsistent 

Basic Procedure either written or verbal that covers: 

• Cooking PHF to appropriate temperatures 

• Consumer advisory for raw/undercooked PHF 

Training covers Basic procedure criteria and 

occurs at least at initial hire. 

Verification of daily compliance with Basic 

level procedures occurs periodically. 

Well-Developed Procedure is written and includes Basic level of criteria 

plus: 

Examples: 

• Use of thermocouple with appropriate probe to 

check temperatures 

Training covers Well-Developed procedure 

criteria plus: 

Examples: 

• Employees can verbalize or 

demonstrate procedures for these 

criteria 

• Keeps a training record 

• Periodic refresher training offered 

Written verification of well-developed criteria 

occurs on a frequent basis. 

Examples 

• Maintain a cooking temperature log 

• Thermometer calibration logs 

Proactive Procedures cover Well-Developed level of criteria plus: 

Examples: 

• No raw meat on the premises 

• No PHF deliberately served raw/undercooked 

Training covers Proactive procedure criteria 

plus: 

Examples: 

• Utilizing a variety of training 

materials/methods 

• Reinforce training regularly 

• Training program is 

reviewed/revised regularly to meet 

needs 

Written verification covers Proactive criteria 

and information gained from verification is 

used to minimize foodborne illness risk. 

Examples: 

• Analysis of trends and action plans 

to provide long term corrections to 

deficiencies 

Page 9 of 12
 

 

Risk Factor Rating Policy Training Verification 

Hot Holding of 

Potentially 

Hazardous Food 

Non-Existent No Procedure No Training No Verification Occurring 

Underdeveloped Procedures either written or verbal do not address Basic 

level of criteria. 

Training does not address Basic level of 

criteria. 

Verification does not address procedures or 

is inconsistent 

Basic Procedure either written or verbal that covers: 

• Holding hot PHF at 135F or greater 

• If used, Time as a Public Health Control 

procedure addresses all pertinent criteria 

Training covers Basic procedure criteria and 

occurs at least at initial hire. 

Verification of daily compliance with Basic 

level procedures occurs periodically. 

Well-Developed Procedure is written and includes Basic level of criteria 

plus: 

Examples: 

• Use of thermocouple to check temperatures 

Training covers Well-Developed procedure 

criteria plus: 

Examples: 

• Employees can verbalize or 

demonstrate procedures for these 

criteria 

• Keeps a training record 

• Periodic refresher training offered 

Written verification of well-developed criteria 

occurs on a frequent basis. 

Examples 

• Maintain a time as a public health 

control log 

• Thermometer calibration logs 

• Hot holding unit temperature logs 

Proactive Procedures cover Well-Developed level of criteria plus: 

Examples: 

• Maintaining hot held PHF over 140F 

Training covers Proactive procedure criteria 

plus: 

Examples: 

• Utilizing a variety of training 

materials/methods 

• Reinforce training regularly 

• Training program is 

reviewed/revised regularly to meet 

needs 

Written verification covers Proactive criteria 

and information gained from verification is 

used to minimize foodborne illness risk. 

Examples: 

• Analysis of trends and action plans 

to provide long term corrections to 

deficiencies 

Page 10 of 12
 

 

Risk Factor Rating Policy Training Verification 

Cold Holding of 

Potentially 

Hazardous Food 

Non-Existent No Procedure No Training No Verification Occurring 

Underdeveloped Procedures either written or verbal do not address Basic 

level of criteria. 

Training does not address Basic level of 

criteria. 

Verification does not address procedures or 

is inconsistent 

Basic Procedure either written or verbal that covers: 

• Holding cold PHF at 41F or lower 

• If used, Time as a Public Health Control 

procedure addresses all pertinent criteria 

Training covers Basic procedure criteria and 

occurs at least at initial hire. 

Verification of daily compliance with Basic 

level procedures occurs periodically. 

Well-Developed Procedure is written and includes Basic level of criteria 

plus: 

Examples: 

• Use of thermocouple to check temperatures 

Training covers Well-Developed procedure 

criteria plus: 

Examples: 

• Employees can verbalize or 

demonstrate procedures for these 

criteria 

• Keeps a training record 

• Periodic refresher training offered 

Written verification of well-developed criteria 

occurs on a frequent basis. 

Examples 

• Maintain a time as a public health 

control log 

• Thermometer calibration logs 

• Cold holding temperature logs 

Proactive Procedures cover Well-Developed level of criteria plus: 

Examples: 

• Performing preventive maintenance on 

refrigeration units to ensure they are operating 

properly 

• Not using ice baths as a means of cold 

holding 

Training covers Proactive procedure criteria 

plus: 

Examples: 

• Utilizing a variety of training 

materials/methods 

• Reinforce training regularly 

• Training program is 

reviewed/revised regularly to meet 

needs 

Written verification covers Proactive criteria 

and information gained from verification is 

used to minimize foodborne illness risk. 

Examples: 

• Analysis of trends and action plans 

to provide long term corrections to 

deficiencies 

Page 11 of 12
 

Risk Factor Rating Policy Training Verification 

Cooling of 

Potentially 

Hazardous Food 

Non-Existent No Procedure No Training No Verification Occurring 

Underdeveloped Procedures either written or verbal do not 

address Basic level of criteria. 

Training does not address Basic level of 

criteria. 

Verification does not address 

procedures or is inconsistent 

Basic Procedure either written or verbal that covers: 

• Use of rapid cooling methods 

• Ensuring food is rapidly cooled within 

the allowable timeframes 

• Marking food with the date and time of 

cooling 

• Arrangement in cooler to allow for 

maximum heat transfer 

Training covers Basic procedure criteria 

and occurs at least at initial hire. 

Verification of daily compliance with 

Basic level procedures occurs 

periodically. 

Well-Developed Procedure is written and includes Basic level of 

criteria plus: 

Examples: 

• Use of thermocouple to check 

temperatures 

Training covers Well-Developed 

procedure criteria plus: 

Examples: 

• Employees can verbalize or 

demonstrate procedures for 

these criteria 

• Keeps a training record 

• Periodic refresher training 

offered 

Written verification of well-developed 

criteria occurs on a frequent basis. 

Examples 

• Maintain a cooling log 

Proactive Procedures cover Well-Developed level of criteria 

plus: 

Examples: 

• Use a properly functioning blast chiller 

Training covers Proactive procedure 

criteria plus: 

Examples: 

• Utilizing a variety of training 

materials/methods 

• Reinforce training regularly 

• Training program is 

reviewed/revised regularly to 

meet needs 

Written verification covers Proactive 

criteria and information gained from 

verification is used to minimize 

foodborne illness risk. 

Examples: 

• Analysis of trends and action 

plans to provide long term 

corrections to deficiencies 

Page 12 of 12
REFERENCE MANUAL 83A 

CHAPTER 4 

RECREATIONAL WATER 

TABLE OF CONTENTS 

1. SWIMMING POOLS, HOT TUBS, AND SPAS

2. BATHING BEACHES

3. HOT SPRINGS

LIST of TABLES 

TABLE 1.0: NOTIFICATION, ADVISORY AND CLOSURE PROCEDURES

TABLE 2.0 SUMMARY BEACH BACTERIOLOGICAL DATA FORM

TABLE 3.0 RECOMMENDED SAMPLING PROCEDURES

TABLE 4.0 GEOMETRIC MEAN EXAMPLES

TABLE 5.0 RECREATIONAL WATER QUALITY CRITERIA SUMMARY

Page 1 of 13
 

 

 

 

 

 

1. SWIMMING POOLS, HOT TUBS, AND SPAS 

1.1 CDC Model Aquatic Health Code 

NPS will reduce the risk of waterborne diseases by ensuring that the NPS and concessioners who 

run swimming pools, spas and hot tubs within NPS jurisdiction properly operate, maintain, 

monitor, and promptly correct deficiencies identified in these systems in accordance with

applicable state and local regulations. In the absence of applicable state/local regulations, 

swimming pools operated on NPS property will follow guidance outlined in latest version of the

Centers for Disease Control (CDC) Model Aquatic Health Code (MAHC). The complete MAHC

is available at http://www.cdc.gov/mahc/.

1.1.1 Compliance: 

Swimming pools will have until March 1, 2020 to fully implement the MAHC. Until such date, 

the NPS and concessioners may continue to use The National Pool and Spa Institute's ANSI 

Standard for Public Swimming Pool" as policy for swimming pools and The National Pool and 

Spa Institute's ANSI Standard for Public Spas for hot tubs and spas as policy. These documents

are authorized for use in the previous version of Director’s Order 83 D2 Swimming Pools and 

Director’s Order 83 D3 Hot Tubs and Spas. 

1.2 Construction and Facility Design 

NPS will follow the latest version of the International Code Council (ICC) International

Swimming Pool and Spa Code (ISPSC) to ensure the NPS and concessioner operated swimming

pools, spas, and hot tubs are properly constructed and designed. The ISPSC is available

at https://codes.iccsafe.org/content/ISPSC2018/effective-use-of-the-international-swimming-pooland-spa-code.

1.3 Virginia Graeme Baker Pool & Spa Safety Act 

The Virginia Graeme Baker Pool & Spa Safety Act became effective in December of 2008. All

swimming pools on NPS property are required to be compliant with this law. Under the law, all 

public pools and spas must have ANSI/ASME A112.19.8 performance standard, or the successor 

standard ANSI/APSP-16 2011 compliant drain covers installed and a second anti-entrapment 

system installed, when there is a single main drain other than an unblockable drain. This law is 

available at http://www.poolsafely.gov/pool-spa-safety-act/. 

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2. BATHING BEACHES 

NPS Unit Managers will reduce the risk of waterborne diseases by ensuring designated bathing 

beaches are properly operated, maintained and monitored. Deficiencies will be promptly 

corrected, in compliance with the Beaches Environmental Assessment and Coastal Health Act of 

2000 and applicable state/local regulations. In the absence of applicable state or local regulations, 

the following NPS policies will apply. Bathing beaches can be located at lakes, rivers, oceans, hot 

springs, and other bodies of water. Additional guidance is provided below. Further information 

regarding beach monitoring and EPA guidance can be accessed at http://water.epa.gov/beaches.

2.1 Compliance: 

Parks located in states that have bathing beach water quality standards will comply with those 

standards or, in the absence of state standards, comply with DO-83A. 

2.1.1 Bathing beach monitoring is required for each designated bathing beach. Designated 

bathing beaches are those that the Park has identified (using signs, brochures, etc.) for primary 

contact recreational water activities. Monitoring is recommended for other areas that are heavily 

used (40 or more people per 100 linear feet of shoreline). Specific requirements of the monitoring 

program include: 

2.1.1.2 Conducting a sanitary survey; 

2.1.1.3 Preparing a water quality monitoring protocol. This protocol includes the names of areas 

to be sampled; sampling station locations (GPS); a map or sketch of each area showing the 

location of each sampling station; the bacteriological standard used; and the name of the 

laboratory performing the analyses; 

2.1.1.4 Sampling for enterococcus or Escherichia coli bacteria levels; and issuing swimming 

advisories when bathing beach waters exceed the specified standards.

 2.1.1.5 A copy of the bathing beach monitoring plan and current bathing beach sanitary 

survey report will be sent to the Regional Public Health Consultant (PHC) for review and 

concurrence approximately one month before the beginning of the recreational season. The plan 

does not have to be resubmitted annually if there are no changes in beach conditions or the 

monitoring plan. 

2.2 Samples: 

2.2.1 Samples will be collected in conformance with the most recent edition of 

Standard Methods for the Examination of Water and Wastewater. Appendix 2.0 is a

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recommended sampling procedure. 

2.2.2 Parks are required to use a state certified lab for testing.

2.2.3 Parks will submit bacteriological sampling results to the PHC.

2.3 Sanitary Surveys: 

2.3.1 A sanitary survey of all bathing beaches must be performed. The survey can be completed 

by the Park staff, State/Local health department personnel, or the PHC utilizing the assessment

criteria outlined in this document (see 2.3.1 below). There is no formal report format; a 2-3 page 

submittal is sufficient. The assessment criteria may also be accessed using the EPA performance 

standards (https://www.epa.gov/beach-tech/beach-sanitary-surveys). 

2.3.2 Potential sources of human-caused bacterial contamination include (but are not 

restricted to): commercial and agricultural activities, sewage outfalls; storm drains; raw sewage

overflows from manholes, septic tanks and sewage treatment plants; boating activities and people 

using the beach. Potential sources of animal-caused microbial contamination include (but are not 

limited to): streams, animal enclosures, and feedlots and forage areas for both domestic and wild

animals.

2.3.3 Physical factors that have a bearing on water quality include precipitation,

topography, runoff patterns, prevailing winds, tides and currents. Water quality is also affected by 

characteristics of the receiving water such as thermal and salinity stratification, water depth, and 

surface area. An initial site assessment should consider potential sources of pollution and the

physical attributes of the beach area. Should the initial site assessment note any potential sources 

of pollution, a more in-depth evaluation may need to be undertaken which will provide pollution 

characterization, epidemiology data linking illness to the area, and dilution factors. 

2.3.4 The beach site assessment should also consider user hazards such as; excessive 

vegetation, infectious snails, poisonous or dangerous aquatic organisms, currents, tides, 

submerged objects, beach slope, sharp drop-offs, uneven/unstable wading area surfaces, depth in 

diving areas, and overhead power lines. 

2.3.5 The Park should conduct an initial sanitary survey at each designated beach site. The 

results of the survey will inform which locations to sample the beach- monitoring program. The

survey will also help the Park identify potential source(s) and pathway(s) of contamination if the

beach water quality subsequently falls below the applicable standard. Subsequent surveys should 

be performed if any of the risk factors change. Contact your PHC if you have questions about, or 

need assistance in, conducting the sanitary survey.

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2.4 Beach Monitoring Protocol 

2.4.1 Sampling Location 

Sample locations should reflect the water quality within the entire recreational zone. The majority

of samples should be taken in areas of heaviest use. They should include sites that potentially can

be affected by point discharges and surface runoff. Examples are locations adjacent to drains and

natural contours that could discharge storm water collections or septic waste. The total number of 

samples taken at a bathing beach will depend on the size and intensity of use. A minimum of 3 

sampling stations per beach is recommended. 

2.4.2 Sampling Frequency 

Water samples should be collected as early as possible in the morning to accurately reflect the

baseline bacterial quality. The first set of samples should be collected approximately two weeks 

before the beginning of the recreational season. This will provide sufficient time to re-sample if

the initial samples indicate the bacterial standards have been exceeded. Sampling frequency will 

be based on the sanitary survey which reflects the periods of recreational use, the nature and 

extent of use during certain periods, the proximity of the recreational waters to known point and 

non-point sources of pollution, and any effect of storm events on the waters. In any event, the 

water quality monitoring will follow the relevant state's sampling frequency protocol. 

2.4.3 Table 2.0 is a recommended form for consolidating beach monitoring data. It includes 

information about the location, time, date and bacterial densities of each water sample. At the end 

of each month during the bathing beach season, send a copy of the current month's data form to 

your PHC. 

2.5 Bacterial Standards: 

2.5.1 NPS units are required to use state standards for bacterial testing of recreational waters. 

In the absence of state standards, parks are required to follow the EPA’s 2012 Recreational Water

Quality Criteria (RWQC) for protecting human health in all coastal and non-coastal areas 

designated for primary contact recreation use (designated bathing beaches). The EPA’s RWQC 

offers Recommendation guidelines. Recommendation 1 has an illness rate of 36/1000 bathers, 

Recommendation 2 has an illness rate of 32/1000 bathers. In the absence of state standards, parks 

are required to adhere to Recommendation 2. NPS OPH recommends the EPA recreational water 

CFU levels that correlate with an estimated illness rate of 32/1000 to help assure maximum health

and safety of recreational water users.

2.5.2 The 2012 RWQC consists of three components: magnitude, duration, and frequency. The

magnitude of bacterial indicators are described by both the geometric mean (GM) and the 

statistical threshold value (STV).

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The STV approximates the 90th percentile of the water distribution and is intended to be a value

that should not be exceeded by more than 10 percent of the samples taken. 

The GM should be calculated weekly for each sampling station beginning with week five. It is a

running mean calculated using the most recent five weekly samples.

2.5.3 Recommendation 2 Magnitude: 

Enterococci: Culturable enterococci at GM of 30 cfu/100 mL and an STV of 130 cfu/100mL 

measured using EPA method 1600, or any equivalent method that measures culturable 

enterococci.

E. Coli: Culturable E. Coli at a GM of 100 cfu/100mL and an STV of 320 cfu/100mL measured

using EPA method 1603, or any equivalent method that measures culturable E. coli.

2.5.6 Duration and Frequency: 

The waterbody GM should not be greater than the selected GM magnitude in any 30 day interval.

There should not be greater than a ten percent excursion frequency of the selected STV magnitude

in the same 30 day interval.

2.5.7 Beach Closures: 

When the applicable bacterial standards are exceeded, Park managers will report the results to the 

PHC and the applicable state agency. Advise the PHC, applicable state agency, and the local news 

media when a health advisory regarding the affected area will be posted. The advisory will notify 

the public of the potential health risks from swimming at the designated beach. The affected 

beach will be re-sampled immediately by taking two samples each day at each sampling location

where the bacterial standard was exceeded. Re-sampling should continue until the bacterial 

standard is not exceeded for two consecutive days. The PHC can waive this re-sampling 

requirement. Resume routine monitoring and notify the PHC, the local public health agency and 

the news media of the decision to reopen the beach. All signs should be removed. Table 1 of this

document is an example of a beach advisory sign. 

Page 6 of 13
3. HOT SPRINGS

Many National Parks have natural hot springs that are frequented by visitors. It is up to park 

management to identify whether or not a natural hot springs is a designated bathing beach or not 

using the guidance provided in section 2.1.1 of RM83A Chapter 4 Recreational Water. If a 

natural hot springs has been identified as a designated bathing beach it must undergo designated 

bathing beach water quality monitoring as outlined in section 2 of this chapter.

3.1 Naegleria fowleri

Certain hot springs within the National Park Boundaries have tested positive for Naegleria 

fowleri. Naegleria fowleri is a free-living amoeba that can infect humans when it enters through 

the nose and can cause primary amebic meningoencephalitis, a disease of the central nervous 

system that is almost always fatal. If hot springs water have testing confirmation of the presence 

of Naegleria fowleri amoeba, the park should work with the Public Health Consultant (PHC) to 

ensure that the public is properly notified. Testing for the presence of Naegleria fowleri is not 

typically recommended since it is found in many bodies of warm, freshwater and results in very 

few cases of infection.

Page 7 of 13
 

FREQUENTLY USED ABBREVIATIONS AND ACRONYMS 

ANSI: American National Standards Institute

APSP: Association of Pool and Spa Professionals

ASME: American Society of Mechanical Engineers

CDC: Centers of Disease Control and Prevention

CFU: Colony Forming Units

EPA: Environmental Protection Agency 

GM: Geometric Mean

ICC: International Code Council

ISPSC: International Swimming Pool and Spa Code

MAHC: Model Aquatic Health Code

PHC: Public Health Consultant

RWQC: Recreational Water Quality Criteria

STV: Statistical Threshold Value

Page 8 of 13
TABLE 1.0 NOTIFICATION, ADVISORY AND CLOSURE PROCEDURES 

Bacterial levels in water samples taken from this body of water exceed 

Local, State and National Park Service standards for recreational 

activity. 

Due to the increased human health risk, the National Park Service 

warns to avoid contact with these waters until further notice. 

Please contact the Park at telephone no. XXX-XXXX for 

updates on this advisory.

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Table 2.0 SUMMARY BEACH BACTERIOLOGICAL DATA FORM 

BEACH NAME: 

SAMPLE SITE: 

INDICATOR ORGANISM: 

ORGANISM PARAMETER 

MARINE WATER STANDARD (enterococci) 30 CFU/100mL (GM) 

110 CFU/100mL (STV) 

FRESH WATER STANDARD (enterococci) 30 CFU/100mL (GM) 

110 CFU/100mL (STV) 

FRESH WATER STANDARD (E. coli) 100 CFU/100mL (GM) 

320 CFU/100mL (STV) 

WEEK # DATE 

(DD/MM/YY) 

TME 

(NNNN) 

COLLECTED BY COLONIES/100mL STEP #1 

LOGARITHM OF SAMPLES 

Step #2 

SUM OF LOGS 

Step #3 

AVERAGE OF LOG SUM 

Step #4 

GEOMETRIC MEAN OF ANTILOG 

1

Describe all activities that might affect the beach water quality (e.g., boating, storm water runoff, weather conditions, unusually large crowds).

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Table 3.0 RECOMMENDED SAMPLING PROCEDURES 

1. Collect samples using bottles provided by your laboratory.

2. Collect samples as early as possible in the morning before visitors begin using the beach.

3. Wade out into the surf about thigh deep and face the current, if any.

4. Collect the sample from an incoming wave, taking care to avoid getting debris into the sample.

5. The object is to avoid capturing surface water, and to collect from at least 1-foot depth. Grasp the bottle near its base with

one hand and remove the cap with the other. Be careful to avoid touching the inside of the cap or the rim of the bottle.

Rotate your wrist so the mouth of the bottle is pointing downward at about a 45-degree angle. Rapidly plunge the bottle to

a depth of about one foot. Rotate your wrist so the mouth of the bottle points up, loses its air bubble, and fills with water.

Replace the bottle cap while still under water.

6. Lift the capped bottle out of the water. Remove the cap and pour out enough water to leave a 1/2-inch air space. Replace

the cap. Be careful not to touch the lip of the bottle or the inside of the cap.

7. Immediately place the bottle in an upright position in a covered cooler containing sufficient ice to keep the samples cool

until they arrive at the laboratory.

8. Record the sample bottle number, station name, date and time of sampling, sampler's name, and other appropriate

information on the field data sheet (See Enclosure 1).

9. Transport the sample to the laboratory on ice, in a covered cooler preferably within six hours, but no longer than twentyfour hours of sampling.

1

See most recent edition of Standard Methods for the Examination of Water and Wastewater, 18th Edition, Part 9060 for

additional information about sample collection, preservation and storage.

Page 11 of 13
 

 

Table 4.0 Geometric Mean Examples 

Two Geometric Mean (GM) Sample Calculations Using the Results of 5 Weekly Samples Taken From the Same Sampling Station

GM = antilog [1/n (log sample 1 + log sample 2 + log sample 3 + log sample 4 + log sample 5)] 

Example 1: Week 1 = 23 enterococci/100 ml Example 2: Week 2 = 33 enterococci/100 ml

Week 2 = 33 enterococci/100 ml Week 3 = 33 enterococci/100 ml

Week 3 = 33 enterococci/100 ml Week 4 = 37 enterococci/100 ml

Week 4 = 37 enterococci/100 ml Week 5 = 47 enterococci/100 ml

Week 5 = 47 enterococci/100 ml Week 6 = 53 enterococci/100 ml

Step 1: log 23 = 1.36172 Step 1: log 33 = 1.51851

log 33 = 1.51851 log 33 = 1.51851

log 33 = 1.51851 log 37 = 1.56820

log 37 = 1.56820 log 47 = 1.67209

log 47 = 1.67209 log 53 = 1.72458

7.63903 8.00189

Step 2: [1/n (7.63903)] = [1/5 (7.63903)] = 1.52781 Step 2: [1/n (8.00159)] = [1/5 (8.00189)] = 1.60003

Step 3: Antilog 1.52781 = 33.7 = 34 colonies/100 ml Step 3: Antilog 1.60003 = 39.8 = 40 colonies/100 ml

Conclusion: The GM of 34-colonies/100 ml does not exceed Conclusion: The GM of 40-colonies/100 ml does exceed 

the marine beach standard of 35 enterococci colonies/100 ml. the marine beach standard of 35 enterococci colonies/100 ml.

*Note: n = the number of samples

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Table 5.0 Recreational Water Quality Criteria Summary 

Criteria Elements 

EPA RWQA Recommendation 2 

(Estimated Illness rate of 32/1000) 

Indicator 

GM 

(CFU/100mL) 

STV 

(CFU/100mL) 

Enteroccoci (Marine & Fresh) 30 110 

E. coli (Fresh) 100 320 

Page 13 of 13
 

REFERENCE MANUAL 83A 

CHAPTER 5 

BACKCOUNTRY OPERATIONS 

TABLE OF CONTENTS: 

1.0 GENERAL OPERATIONS................................................page 1 

2.0 FOOD OPERATIONS......................................................page 2

3.0 POTABLE WATER OPERATIONS......................................page 4

4.0 HUMAN WASTE MANAGEMENT OPERATIONS..................page 5

5.0 VECTOR-BORNE & ZOONOTIC DISEASE PREVENTION.......page 7

6.0 ILLNESS REPORTING PROCEDURES.................................page 10

7.0 FURTHER INFORMATION AND REFERENCES....................page 11

APPENDICIES:

APPENDIX 1: FREQUENTLY USED ABBREVIATIONS AND ACRONYMS

APPENDIX 2: GLOSSARY OF COMMONLY USED TERMS

APPENDIX 3: GASTROINTESTINAL (GI) ILLNESS REPORT FORM

1. GENERAL OPERATIONS 

1.0.1 National Park Service (NPS) will reduce the risk of disease transmission

to park visitors, partners, and staff while providing opportunities to enjoy 

experiences in the backcountry. These guidelines are intended for NPS 

partners and NPS operations to ensure minimum standards for public

health are maintained in the backcountry where front country standards are 

not in alignment with the operational conditions.

1.0.2 All backcountry operations will drink potable water obtained from an 

approved drinking water system that meets NPS policy in RM83A Chapter

1 (Water Systems), or obtained from a source known to be free of

chemical contamination and appropriately filtered and disinfected or

boiled for a sufficient length of time to kill pathogens. 

1.0.3 Food service will comply with the relevant portions of the United States 

Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) most current Model Food Code. 

Where strict application of the code is not possible, this Reference Manual

will identify permissible changes, in compliance with any rules of the

local NPS management. 

1.0.4 Park managers will safely dispose of human waste in an approved manner

and in compliance with the requirements of the local NPS management. 

1.0.5 Backcountry visitors will be informed by local NPS of known specific

vector-borne diseases to which they may be exposed and provided with 

risk reduction strategies. Activities will be modified as appropriate to

reduce the risk of disease transmission.

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2. FOOD OPERATIONS 

2.0.1 The safe storage, transport, preparation and service of food in the

backcountry is quite challenging due to the inherent nature of the

environment under which the parks and park partners are operating. 

Despite these challenges, food service must be in compliance with the

relevant portions of the FDA’s most current Food Code. Where a strict

application of the code is not possible, the changes detailed in 2.1.0 

through 2.7.2 are permitted.

2.1.0 Food Handlers:

2.1.1 At least one guide on each excursion will be a certified food 

handler and will be responsible for overseeing the storage, 

preparation, and serving of food. It is strongly recommended,

however, that this one guide on each excursion be certified on 

a manager level. All guides are encouraged to become 

certified food handlers. 

2.1.2 No persons who are ill will be allowed to prepare food. A person 

with a gastrointestinal illness will be restricted from food handling 

and water treatment activities until 72 hours after symptoms have 

resolved.

2.1.3 Guest volunteers will not be allowed to prepare or handle food 

other than their own. They may be allowed to perform other duties

attendant to food preparation.

2.1.4 Bare hand contact should be minimized with ready to eat food 

products. Gloves or utensils are strongly encouraged when 

handling foods that will not be cooked. 

2.1.5 Food handlers will not eat while preparing food. 

2.2.0 Handwashing:

2.2.1 Handwashing setups will be conveniently located near the food 

area.

2.2.2 Handwashing setups which involve the repeated dipping of hands

into the treated water container may not be used. Only gravity feed 

or foot pump pressurized portable handwashing systems that 

dispense treated water from a flow-controlled nozzle over the

hands and into a grey water catchment basin below during the

handwashing process are approved. 

2.2.3 Foodhandlers will wash their hands immediately before engaging 

in food preparation, after using the bathroom, smoking, sneezing or

coughing into hands and as frequently as needed to prevent

contamination of food and utensils.

2.2.4 Water used for handwashing will be as specified in section 3.1.0 

below or treated with 100 mg/L Parts Per Million (PPM) chlorine.

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If this method is used chlorine test strips will be used to check the 

concentration. Extra chlorine might be required to achieve 100 

PPM in turbid water. The handwash container must be covered to 

prevent potential re-entry of contaminants and to minimize the 

potential for chlorine to off-gas once the above treatment process 

is complete. 

2.2.5 In extreme circumstances where sufficient treated water is not 

available, food handlers must use hand sanitizers containing 70% 

ethyl alcohol per the manufacturer’s directions after preliminarily

washing hands with untreated water.

2.3.0 Food Storage:

2.3.1 Time/Temperature Control for Safety (TCS) foods (including raw

eggs) will be stored at or below 45°F.

2.3.2 Foods will be stored so that they do not contaminate one another. 

Whenever possible, raw TCS foods should be stored in a separate

cooler. When this is not possible (e.g. single cooler trips), raw

TCS foods must be stored at the bottom of the cooler in durable

leak proof containers. Double bagging is not adequate when 

storing raw TCS foods in the same cooler as ready to eat foods.

2.3.3 Menus should be simplified and ingredients selected to minimize 

the amount of raw TCS foods that are needed on each trip.

2.3.4 Dry foods will be stored in sealed containers to protect them from

moisture and rodents.

2.3.5 Food will be stored separately from cleaning supplies, fuel, human 

waste receptacles or solid waste receptacles.

2.4.0 Food Preparation:

2.4.1 TCS food left over from a meal will not be held for re-service.

2.4.2 TCS food will not be prepared in advance in the backcountry and 

then cooled down for later service. All TCS foods cooked on site

will be consumed or discarded within four hours of preparation. 

2.5.0 Food Service:

2.5.1 Guest handwashing facilities will be available near the food 

service area. Air drying of hands is acceptable for guests.

Individuals involved in preparation or service of food will use 

clean, disposable paper towels for hand drying.

2.6.0 Facilities: 

2.6.1 If possible, a tarp will be laid down on the ground before setting up 

the kitchen to aid in later cleanup activities. 

2.6.2 Food preparation surfaces will be in good repair without cracks or 

holes and easily cleanable. All tables and food preparation contact 

surfaces must be sanitized before and after meals with 100 PPM 

chlorine.

2.6.3 Food handlers will provide necessary measures to prevent 

environmental contaminants from affecting the food. 

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2.6.4 This may mean overhead and/or side protection during periods of 

inclement weather.

2.6.5 A 3-compartment dish washing setup is required in the order of 

Wash-Rinse-Sanitize. Hot wash water must be used with detergent. 

Sanitizer must have 100 PPM chlorine residual and be checked with 

chlorine test strips. Air dry dishes and utensils before storage.

2.7.0 Unused Food: 

2.7.1 Any food product that has been opened must be discarded at the 

end of the trip. Non-TCS items that will be cooked (e.g. dry 

pancake batter and seasonings) are exempt from this requirement.

2.7.2 Unopened TCS foods will be discarded at the end of a trip (i.e.

they cannot be taken on more than one trip).

3. POTABLE WATER OPERATIONS 

3.0.1 Filtration and disinfection are both required for the treatment of water

unless the water is obtained from an NPS approved drinking water source. 

Appropriate park staff should ensure backcountry users understand that

non-potable water is not safe to drink following filtration without 

disinfection. Failure to add disinfectant after filtration or boiling has 

resulted in a number of illness outbreaks at times affecting hundreds of

people.

3.1.0 There are only three pre-approved methods of providing potable water for

drinking and culinary uses:

3.1.1 Potable Water System: Water will be obtained from an NPS 

approved drinking water system and will be stored in containers

that are free from contamination and are disinfected between every 

reuse. Transport container disinfection will be provided by placing 

2 tablespoons or 6 teaspoons of 8.25% NSF approved chlorine

bleach in a 5 gallon container of water, mixing and allowing to 

stand for 30 minutes. The container will then be emptied, rinsed 

with potable water, and then filled with water from the NPS 

approved drinking water system (see RM83A Chapter 1 for further

details). Note that leaving the disinfected water in direct sunlight

will consume the chlorine and reduce the effectiveness. Thus,

shade is recommended for proper container storage. 

3.1.2 Boiling: Obtain water from a source free of known chemical

contamination and bring to a rolling boil for 1 minute (or 3 minutes

for elevations over 6,500 ft). If the water is not consumed within 6 

hours after boiling and is placed in a sanitized container, that water 

should be disinfected with a 1 mg/L (PPM) chlorine bleach 

solution. 

3.1.3 Filtration and Disinfection: Obtain water from a source free of

known chemical contamination and then filter and disinfect the

water. If sediment is present in the water, settle overnight or use a 

settling agent such as alum.

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Filtering will be through an “absolute” 1 micron filter, or one 

labeled as meeting the NSF International Standard #53 for “Cyst 

Removal”. The filtration must be followed by disinfection. 

If a chlorine residual test kit is available, add drops of unscented 

NSF-60 approved 8.25% chlorine bleach until a strength of at 

least 1 mg/L (PPM) is achieved. 

3.1.4 If no test kit is available, follow the guidance in the table below. 

Mix and let stand for at least 30 minutes before drinking.

Volume of Water Amount of Bleach to Add* 

1 quart/liter 2 drops

1 gallon 6 drops

2 gallons 12 drops (1/8 teaspoon)

4 gallons 1/4 teaspoon

8 gallons 1/2 teaspoon

*Bleach contains up to 8.25% sodium hypochlorite.

If the bleach solution contains a different concentration of sodium

hypochlorite the above noted values will need to be modified. 

Please contact your Public Health Consultant (PHC) for assistance

in the conversion.

Alternative disinfection methods must be approved by the PHC. 

Use of ultraviolet light as an alternative to adding disinfectant will

not be approved. UV disinfection does not provide a residual to 

deal with post-treatment contamination. 

4. HUMAN WASTE MANAGEMENT OPERATIONS 

4.0.1 All human waste will be disposed of in an approved manner. Approved

methods must conform to local NPS policy which may include one of the

methods outlined below. Whenever there is human access into the 

backcountry, the problem of safely disposing of fecal waste must be

addressed. In all cases, appropriate measures will be taken to protect the

health of visitors and staff by minimizing risk of disease transmission as

well as protecting park resources.

4.1.0 The preferred option for human waste disposal is always to use permanent

facilities provided by the park. These are most often located in high use or

environmentally sensitive areas. Failure to use these facilities can result in

significant degradation of park resources. Permanent waste facilities are 

covered in the RM83A Chapter 2 (Wastewater Systems). 

Page 5 of 15 
 

 

 

4.2.0 There are several methods by which the NPS allows backcountry fecal

waste to be collected and disposed of. Allowable methods depend on the

NPS park and may differ depending on location of travel. Methods of

handling human feces in the backcountry can be divided into two 

categories: Collection/Removal and On-Site Treatment/Disposal.

4.3.0 Collection/Removal alternatives will be used in parks that have either high

visitation and/or poor soil for fecal decomposition in the backcountry and 

cannot sustain the On Site Disposal method. This is typical of high alpine

and mountainous areas where there is little soil available and the 

decomposition is slow, but may also include other areas such as along 

rivers. There are three types of methods for collection and removal:

4.3.1 Bag Containers: Bag containers may only be used for the

collection and disposal of fecal matter when an approved 

collection system is implemented by the park, or a commercially

available product approved for disposal in landfills is used. 

Where park units have established a collection system, plastic bags

are collected from those who have visited the backcountry and

deposited in specially labeled containers (55-gallon drums). The

drums are sealed and removed from the backcountry via pack 

animal or motorized device. The bagged wastes are then collected,

labeled, and transported to a licensed and inspected facility for

proper disposal. Commercially available bagged waste receptacles 

such as, but not limited to, the “Rest Stop” and “Wag Bag” are also

approved for use in the parks. These bags contain an absorbent

material that absorbs all the liquid much like a diaper and can be

disposed of in landfills. No special handling procedures are

required; licensed disposal of this waste is allowed as long as there 

is no free flowing liquid.

4.3.2 Simple Containers: Simple containers include pickle pails (5-

gallon buckets with tight fitting lids) rocket boxes (20-mm ammo

cans), scat packer, brief relief, clean mountain cans or other similar 

products approved by the park unit. The pickle pails and rocket

boxes are common devices seen on the river trips in Grand Canyon 

National Park and Cataract Canyon in Canyonlands National Park. 

Another alternative is the clean mountain cans recently developed 

and used in Denali National Park and Preserve by mountaineers.

The full containers are typically transported to a central site and 

then dumped into a septic tank/wastewater treatment plant for final

treatment and disposal. Any container must be sealable and able to

be easily emptied, cleaned and sanitized for use on the next trip. 

4.3.3 Urine diversion toilet: Fecal matter is deposited in the container

and urine is diverted to a drain field or similar subsurface disposal 

area. The primary function of the unit is to reduce weight and

allow for the safe handling and transportation of the solid material.

Page 6 of 15 
 

 

4.4.0 On Site Disposal (Cat Holes) may only be used if approved by the park. 

The site used for disposal will be located at least 100 feet (30 meters) from

freshwater in an inconspicuous site not traveled frequently by people. The

area should be elevated where water would not pool during storms, where

adequate soil is available, and preferably in an area that receives 

maximum sunlight. Excavate a hole that is at least 6 inches (15

centimeters) deep and 4 inches (10 centimeters) in diameter. Deposit and 

cover the fecal material with soil and other native materials.

Decomposition of fecal matter is increased if it is mixed with the soil, this

can be accomplished with a stick. Toilet paper is slow to decompose and 

may be dug up by animals, therefore some backcountry operations require

users to collect toilet paper in a separate container and carry it out for 

disposal, especially in arid areas. If this is required, make sure to place 

used toilet paper in a bag without touching the outside of the container.

4.5.0 Urine should be disposed of in a permanent facility if available. However, 

if one is not available, pick an area at least 100 feet (30 meters) from

freshwater and in an inconspicuous site not traveled frequently by people. 

Urinate on rocks, pine needles, or gravel, as animals are less likely to be 

attracted to these areas and defoliate plants or dig up soil because of the 

salts in the urine. If allowed by the park, urination directly into a river

with a high flow of water may be the preferred alternative.

4.6.0 It is extremely important for users to wash hands with soap and water after

each use. If handwashing facilities are not available hands may be cleaned 

with disposable hand wipes or hand sanitizer.

5. VECTOR-BORNE AND ZOONOTIC DISEASE PREVENTION 

OPERATIONS 

5.1 Backcountry visitors are at risk for vector borne disease exposure. In

order to reduce risk to the park visitors, partners, and staff in the

backcountry, the park unit will:

5.1.1 Communicate to backcountry users effective vector-borne disease

prevention strategies that may be prevalent in and around the park. 

Contact the PHC for assistance.

5.1.2 Establish lines of open communication – this may simply consist

of open communication between backcountry users and park staff

to identify areas of concern, including, but not limited to: high 

mosquito population, rodent infestation, and die-off of rodents. 

Parks should maintain regular communication with the NPS Office

of Public Health to stay informed of new, expanding, and reemerging disease risks.

5.1.3 Provide appropriate risk reduction strategies to backcountry 

visitors, partners, and staff. 

Page 7 of 15 
 

5.1.4 Additional information may be obtained from RM83A Chapter 6,

the NPS One Health website (http://www.nps.gov/onehealth), 

and the NPS Disease Prevention and Response website (https://

www.nps.gov/subjects/healthandsafety/disease-prevention.htm).

5.2 Risk Reduction Strategies

5.2.1 Mosquito-Borne Diseases

5.2.1.1 Wear long sleeved shirts and pants if conditions allow, 

particularly during periods of high mosquito activity. 

5.2.1.2 Use of an insect repellent containing DEET, Picaridin, or 

oil of lemon eucalyptus on skin or permethrin on clothing is 

effective against mosquitoes and should be used during 

periods of high mosquito activity.

5.2.1.3 Avoid campsites that have high mosquito populations or

are near areas of stagnant waters. When possible utilize 

enclosed tents for sleeping, use mosquito netting treated 

with permethrin as an additional protective barrier.

5.3.1 Plague

5.3.1.1 Closure or modified use of high risk area during active

epizootic events. 

5.3.1.2 When possible, consider conducting surveillance for plague

activity in rodent populations by public health workers, 

citizens reporting rodents found sick or dead, or surveys by 

biologists.

5.3.1.3 Apply insect repellents containing DEET or Picaridin to 

clothing and skin, according to label instructions, to prevent

flea bites if you anticipate being exposed to rodent fleas.

5.4.1 Tick-borne diseases

5.4.1.1 Wear light-colored clothing to allow you to see ticks

crawling on your clothing. 

5.4.1.2 Tuck pant legs into socks so that ticks cannot crawl up the 

inside of your pants legs. Spraying boots with permethrin

can prevent ticks from attaching to the body. The use of tall

rubber boots may also provide additional protection. 

5.4.1.3 Apply insect repellants containing DEET or Picaridin and 

wear permethrin treated clothing to discourage tick 

attachment.

5.4.1.4 Scan body after exposure to tick-infested areas, paying 

special attention to the backs of the knees, groin, armpits

and neck and remove any tick you find on your body. 

Parents should check their children for ticks, especially in

the hair, when returning from potentially tick-infested

areas. When possible shower or bathe within 2 hours of

returning from tick habitat.

Page 8 of 15 
 

 

 

 

5.4.1.5 Avoid sitting on logs in areas with significant leaf litter and

hike in the center of trails. Ticks must crawl directly onto a

host, so avoiding direct contact with tick habitat will 

prevent tick attachment. 

5.5.1 Rodent-borne diseases

5.5.1.1 Avoid contact with live or dead rodents, their burrows, dens, 

nests, or droppings. 

5.5.1.2 Do not use cabins or other enclosed shelters that are 

potentially rodent-infested until they have been 

appropriately cleaned and disinfected. Follow the risk

reduction guidelines found on the NPS Integrated Pest 

Management website 

(https://sites.google.com/a/nps.gov/in2-preservelandscapes-and-natural-systems/home/biologicalresources/lrab/ipm/ipm-training/rodents) to properly 

disinfect enclosed areas. 

5.5.1.3 Do not pitch tents or place sleeping bags in proximity to 

rodent feces or burrows or near possible rodent habitat

(e.g., dense brush or woodpiles).

5.5.1.4 Keep food and trash in rodent-proof containers.

5.5.1.5 Wear insect repellent when camping or hiking in areas with 

rodent habitat.

5.5.1.6 Supervise children and keep pets on leash.

5.5.1.7 Report any dead rodents to park resource staff immediately

and consider leaving the area if signs of abandoned 

burrows, carrion flies, fleas at burrow openings, or multiple

dead animals exist.

5.5.1.8 Consider submitting any rodent carcasses to the NPS

Wildlife Health Branch for diagnostic testing to surveil for

plague and tularemia. Instructions and guidance can be 

found here: https://sites.google.com/a/nps.gov/in2-

preserve-landscapes-and-natural-systems/home/biologicalresources/wildlife-health/surveillance.

5.6.1 Rabies

5.6.1.1 Educate visitors and employees about the importance of

preventing direct contact with wildlife. Wildlife should not

be handled, fed, or unintentionally attracted with open 

containers or litter.

5.6.1.2 Since bat bites and scratches are difficult to detect, anyone

who has slept in a cabin or other sleeping quarters where a 

bat was found or woke with a bat on them or their sleeping 

gear should undergo a risk assessment, as soon as possible, 

for the need for rabies post-exposure prophylaxis.

Page 9 of 15 
 

5.6.1.3 After any suspect exposure to a potentially rabid animal, 

safely capture and euthanize the animal for testing, wash the

wound thoroughly with soap and water, and seek medical

attention as soon as possible. The following information will

be collected if possible to assist in assessment of risk:

• The geographic location of the incident

• The type of animal that was involved

• How the exposure occurred

• Whether the animal has or can be safely collected and

tested for rabies

5.6.1.4 Please contact the Wildlife Health Branch or an NPS 

epidemiologist for guidance on euthanasia and testing of the

carcass. Carcasses with known human exposure should be sent to 

the nearest state lab to expedite the testing process.

6. ILLNESS REPORTING PROCEDURES 

6.1.0 The trip leader will complete a separate Gastrointestinal (GI) Illness

Report Form (See Appendix 3) for each person who becomes ill with a GI

illness on a trip.

6.2.0 The forms will be submitted within the appropriate time frame described

below. For commercial trips, reports will be sent to the park concession 

specialist. For all other trips, reports will be sent to the park 

superintendent. All reported GI reports will be forwarded to the Public

Health Consultant for further review.

6.3.0 Reporting timeframe

6.3.1 If 1 or 2 persons (visitors or employees) experience GI illness 

during a trip, the illnesses and GI Report Form can be reported to 

the NPS at the end of the trip.

6.3.2 If 3 or more persons (passengers or employees) experience GI

illness during a trip, the trip leader must do the following:

6.3.2.1 Complete a GI Form at the time of illness for each person 

who becomes ill.

6.3.2.2 Notify NPS within 24 hours of the illnesses (via satellite

phone, if needed) and include the following information:

• Illness symptoms

• Dates and times of illness onset

• Suggestions as to the cause of the illness

• Trip itinerary

• Water treatment (includes sources and treatment)

• Specific menu (includes snacks and beverages) for the

entire trip

• Food suppliers

• Passenger manifests with contact information

• If there was any illness at the company prior to the trip

Page 10 of 15 
 

 

 

• Provide daily updates via satellite phone of new illnesses

and progress of cases that have stabilized

6.3.3 Submit all GI Forms to NPS at the end of the trip.

6.3.3.1 If a GI complaint is received after a trip has been 

completed, a GI report form will still be completed and 

forwarded to NPS.

7. FURTHER INFORMATION AND REFERENCES 

7.1.0 NPS Disease Prevention and Response – Internet Site 

(https://www.nps.gov/subjects/healthandsafety/disease-prevention.htm)

7.2.0 NSF International (http://www.nsf.org)

7.3.0 The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (https://www.cdc.gov/)

7.4.0 Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) Food Code 

(http://www.fda.gov/Food/GuidanceRegulation/RetailFoodProtection/Foo

dCode/ucm374275.htm) 

7.5.0 State and Local Health Departments 

(https://www.cste.org)

(https://www.naccho.org/membership/lhd-directory)

APPENDIX 1 

FREQUENTLY USED ABBREVIATIONS AND ACRONYMS 

DEET: Diethyl-Meta-Toluamide or Diethyltoluamide, the most common active

ingredient in insect repellents

FDA: United States Food and Drug Administration

GI: Gastrointestinal

NPS: National Park Service

NSF: NSF International 

OPH: Office of Public Health

PHC: Public Health Consultant

PPM: Parts Per Million

RM: Reference Manual

TCS: Time/Temperature Control for Safety Food

UV: Ultraviolet Light

Page 11 of 15 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

APPENDIX 2 

GLOSSARY OF COMMONLY USED TERMS 

DEFINITIONS 

Backcountry: Determinations of “backcountry” will be made on a park-by-park basis, 

taking into account the park area’s geographic circumstances. Backcountry water and

wastewater systems are most often found in areas that are remote from developed areas 

and are not readily serviceable by motorized vehicles.

Certified Food Handler: An individual who has completed an approved food safety 

training course and successfully passed the certification examination. Approved courses

and exams may be from local and state health departments, or a nationally recognized 

certification program. The certification must be renewed upon expiration, or if more than 

three years have passed since the date of issuance.

FDA Food Code: Guidelines of the United States Public Health Service Food and Drug 

Administration regarding the most current guidance and strategies for safeguarding 

public health and ensuring food is unadulterated and honestly presented when offered to 

the consumer. 

Non-Potable Water: Water that does not meet NPS drinking water policy in RM83A or

water that may contain objectionable pollution, contamination, minerals, or infective

agents and is considered unsafe and/or unpalatable for drinking. If water is non-potable, a

clear statement that the water is non-potable and should not be used for drinking, food or

beverage preparation, handwashing, teeth brushing, or any other consumptive use should 

be stated.

National Sanitation Foundation: NSF International is a product testing, inspection and 

certification organization. NSF International independently tests, audits, certifies, trains

and consults for the food, water, health science, sustainability and consumer product

sectors.

Potable Water: Water that meets the standards for drinking purposes of the State or local

authority having jurisdiction, or water that meets quality standards prescribed by the U.S. 

Environmental Protection Agency. 

Public Health Consultant: The local or regional NPS Office of Public Health employee

assigned to assist the NPS site with all public health needs. 

Time/Temperature Control for Safety Food (TCS): food that requires time/temperature

control for safety to limit pathogenic microorganism growth or toxin formation. 

Vector: an agent (e.g. insect, tick, mite, rodent, bird, etc.) that transfers an infective agent

from one host (which can include itself) to another.

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APPENDIX 3 

GASTROINTESTINAL (GI) ILLNESS REPORT FORM 

National Park Service - Public Health Program

Park Identifier: 

Personal Information 

First Name Last Name 

Date of Birth / / (mm/dd/yy) Sex: Female Male

Parent’s Name (if child<18): First Name Last Name 

Address City

State/Province County Country

Postal Code Telephone Alternate Phone

Email 

Check One: Park Visitor NPS Employee Concessionaire Employee Park Resident

Race/Ethnicity: White Hispanic Black or African American Asian

Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander American Indian or Alaska Native

Symptoms Experienced During this Illness 

Nausea Yes No Sweats/Chills Yes No Hives Yes No

Vomiting Yes No Fatigue Yes No Metallic Taste Yes No

Diarrhea Yes No Muscle Aches Yes No Numb/Tingling Yes No

Blood in stool Yes No Headache Yes No Blurred Vision Yes No

Stomach cramps Yes No Sore Throat Yes No Constipation Yes No

Difficult to

Swallow

Yes No Difficult to

Breathe

Yes No Burning in

Mouth 

Yes No

Jaundice Yes No Paralysis Yes No Other Yes No

Fever Yes No Difficult to

Speak 

Yes No Did animal or

insect bite occur

prior to symptoms

Yes No

Highest Temp ◦F

If yes to “other” symptom or animal/insect bite describe:

Date of Illness onset:

Location of onset:

/ /

(mm/dd/yy)

Time of onset:

Has person recovered: Yes

AM 

No

PM

Date of recovery: / / (mm/dd/yy)

Page 13 of 15 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

APPENDIX 3 

GASTROINTESTINAL (GI) ILLNESS REPORT FORM 

National Park Service - Public Health Program

Page 14 of 15 

Medical Treatment 

Has the person experiencing illness symptoms sought medical treatment? Yes No

If Yes: Clinic name Date of clinic visit / / (mm/dd/yy)

Diagnosis

Was the person hospitalized? Yes No What was length of stay? Number of days

Date of admission / / (mm/dd/yy) Date of discharge / /

(mm/dd/yy)

Does the person attribute the illness to a non-infectious cause (e.g., chronic medical condition (irritable

bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel disease, stomach ulcers, etc.), alcohol consumption, pregnancy,

medication, menstruation, etc.)? Yes No Unknown

Did the person take any medications for this illness (e.g., antibiotics, anti-diarrheal medications, etc.)?

Yes No

Were diagnostic tests performed? Yes No

Specimens submitted: Stool Vomit Urine Blood Saliva/Oral Swab Drinking Water

Test performed: Test result:

Results: Detect Non-Detect

Exposure Event Details 

A 72-hour detailed history of food, water, locations visited and activities a person participated in during 

that time will help the epidemiology team determine most likely cause of illness.

1. List your travel history over the past 7 days, include lodging, and outdoor locations:

Day Starting location Travel history (stops, activities, duration) Ending location

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

2. Did you go swimming in a pool, or soak in a hot tub during your travel dates? Yes No

3. Did you swim/bathe in recreational waters during your travel dates? Yes No

(hot springs, lake beach, creek, river, waterfalls, ocean beach)

4. Were others in your party visibly sick or did anyone report feeling sick

or recently recovering from illness? Yes No

5. Did you overnight in a rustic and remote cabin site? Yes No
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

APPENDIX 3 

GASTROINTESTINAL (GI) ILLNESS REPORT FORM 

National Park Service - Public Health Program

Exposure Event Details (continued) 

6. Identify sources of drinking water (check all that apply)

Day Commercial

Bottled

Tap water Natural water sources 

(stream, spring, creek, river)

Were natural water

sources *filtered

Were natural water

sources *treated

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

*Describe methods of filtration and treatment process that natural water sources drinking water underwent:

7. List daily food items consumed

Day breakfast lunch dinner

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

Trip Specific Information 

Start Date: / /

(mm/dd/yy)

Starting location:

End Date: / /

(mm/dd/yy)

Ending location:

Comments:

Form Completed by (person’s name): First Name Last Name

Telephone: Email:

Please specify reporting agency/company:

NPS (program division and job title)

Concessionaire (company name)

Page 15 of 15 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

REFERENCE MANUAL 83A 

CHAPTER 6 

DISEASE MONITORING, SURVEILLANCE AND RESPONSE 

TABLE OF CONTENTS: 

1.0 BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

2.0 AUTHORITY

3.0 POLICIES, STANDARDS, AND PROCEDURES

1.0 BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE 

Prompt reporting of infectious disease cases and appropriate, science-based response is critical 

for limiting transmission and protecting the health of employees and visitors. The purpose of this 

reference manual is to provide guidelines for how to report and manage infectious disease cases 

or outbreaks that occur at NPS units. 

2.0 AUTHORITY 

With variations over time and across jurisdictions, infectious disease and condition reporting for 

a range of diseases/conditions is mandated at the state, territory and local levels by legislation or 

regulation. Within the National Park system, U.S. Public Health Service Commissioned Corps 

officers assigned to the Office of Public Health (OPH) are the primary resource for responding 

to infectious disease cases. These Corps Officers are authorized to handle and share identifiable 

health data in order to address public health issues and reduce or eliminate associated hazards 

(NPS Management Policies 2006, 8.2.5.5., Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act 

of 1996). OPH staff typically conduct investigations in partnership with local/state health 

departments and/or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). 

3.0 POLICIES, STANDARDS, AND PROCEDURES 

3.1. How to report cases 

3.1.1. Park managers should report all suspected or confirmed cases of infectious 

diseases to the regional or park public health consultant, the OPH Epidemiology Branch 

Chief or the One Health Coordinator.

3.1.2. Infectious diseases of interest are broad and include but are not limited to:

• Foodborne/waterborne diseases (e.g. E. coli, Salmonella, hepatitis A)

• Zoonotic/vectorborne diseases (e.g. plague, hantavirus, Lyme disease)

• Airborne/dropletborne diseases (e.g. measles, influenza)

• Bloodborne diseases (e.g. HIV, hepatitis B, hepatitis C)

• Vaccine-preventable diseases (e.g. measles, chickenpox)

• Diseases transmitted person-to-person (e.g. norovirus, influenza)

• Outbreaks of any condition involving 3 or more persons

3.1.3. Rumors about potential infectious diseases should also be reported, so OPH can

assist with initial data gathering.

Page 1 of 6
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3.1.4. Most cases should be reported by phone or email no later than 24 hours after park 

management first becomes aware of the incident.

3.1.5. Cases that result in severe outcomes (e.g. hospitalization or death) or which pose

significant public health threats (e.g. infectious diseases that have high fatality rates or

demonstrate a rapid rate of spread) should be reported immediately by phone. 

3.1.6. For each incident, one individual (a park or OPH employee) should be designated 

as the primary point of contact for gathering and recording accurate information about the

case(s). Collecting this information may involve reviewing records and/or conducting

interviews. Additional information may be gathered by OPH staff after reviewing 

medical records and test results and consulting with staff from local/state health

departments. 

3.1.7. Health information and personally identifiable information (PII) will be handled 

securely and confidentially. 

3.1.8. Names and other Personal Identifying Information (PII) will be shared with others

on a need-to-know basis only.

3.1.9. The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA)

Privacy Rule recognizes the legitimate need for public health authorities and others

responsible for ensuring public health and safety to have access to protected health 

information to carry out their public health mission. The Privacy Rule permits covered 

entities to disclose protected health information, without authorization, to public health 

authorities who are legally authorized to receive such reports for the purpose of

preventing or controlling disease, injury, or disability. For more details, see 45 CFR 

164.512(b).

3.1.10. OPH staff will review all information about the case(s) and will determine the

need to send a summary, including a provisional investigation plan, by email to 

leadership. This may include the park superintendent, OPH Director, Deputy Director,

VRP Associate Director, Regional Director, Deputy Regional Director, and other relevant

parties.

3.2. What to expect during a case investigation 

3.2.1. Once a report is received, the park will continue to manage the incident, and OPH 

staff will serve as subject matter experts and consultants. The OPH will also assist the

park in coordinating with local, state, and federal public health authorities. 

3.2.2. Case/outbreak investigations are not one-size-fits-all. Investigations vary

depending on many factors, including how a pathogen is transmitted. Common modes of 

transmission include foodborne, waterborne, airborne/dropletborne zoonotic/

vectorborne, bloodborne, and pathogens transmitted via close person-to-person contact. 

Page 2 of 6
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3.2.3. Specific investigative actions the OPH might assist with include the following:

• Verifying the diagnosis—OPH staff will coordinate and lead discussions with

local/state health departments and the CDC. Test results will be reviewed and, if

needed, requests will be made for additional confirmatory testing. In-depth

interviews will be conducted with cases to determine if a park is the likely source

of exposure. This step can take time and is an important sorting process to

determine if reported cases are true cases and/or park-associated events.

• Finding additional cases—OPH and park staff may use questionnaires,

interviews with contacts of cases, and queries of local clinics to identify other

visitors or employees with similar symptoms.

• Identifying risk factors for illness—Patterns suggesting which populations are at

risk may be identified by analyzing detailed information on cases. Sometimes,

additional studies are necessary (e.g. studies comparing differences between

people who were sick and people who were well; environmental sampling;

disease testing in wildlife).

• Implementing control measures—Based on presumed or laboratory-confirmed

diagnoses, recommended prevention and control measures will be implemented.

During this stage of the investigation, the situation is frequently re-assessed to see

how well control measures are working and if additional interventions are needed.

Common control measures include providing educational materials and

emphasizing actions people can take to decrease risk. Occasionally, more

aggressive control measures are considered (e.g. prophylactic antibiotics or

vaccines; park closure); such interventions will be implemented only after careful

consideration of the facts and consultation with park managers, OPH staff, and

local/state health authorities.

• Disseminating findings—Throughout the investigation, OPH staff will

communicate key findings (e.g. briefing statements) to park, region, and WASO

managers; OPH staff can also assist with developing, reviewing, and

disseminating educational materials and media communications.

• Improving Prevention – Disease transmission and outbreak response

investigations are conducted in a no-fault approach with a central goal of learning

from the event to improve long-term prevention; if warranted, findings may be

translated into service-wide actions and scientific publications.

3.2.4. For significant public health events (e.g. large outbreaks; fatalities), a final 

investigation summary will be submitted to the park superintendent no later than 120 

days after the last case associated with the incident is reported. After-action reviews with

park managers and public health partners may be scheduled to identify strengths and 

weaknesses of the response.

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3.3. Protection of Visitor Lodging 

Inspection of visitor lodging to assess and manage risk for vector borne diseases will 

follow a three tiered approach. 

3.3.1. Tier 1 of inspection, and ultimate responsibility for day-to-day adherence to 

prevention protocols, is the responsibility of the concessioner. These inspections are 

conducted on a periodic basis as determined by the concessioner as well as on a day-today basis throughout the season as part of standard maintenance and housekeeping 

functions. Concessions companies are required, per the concessions contract to provide 

safe facilities and services and provide documentation to park staff as requested to ensure 

health and safety requirements are met.

3.3.2. Tier 2 involves oversight of concessioners operations through the "Concessioner 

Review Program". Park concessions specialists conduct periodic inspections of a 

sampling of facilities as part of the "Concession Review Program". These inspections

focus on the quality of the visitor services. Concession specialists also look for easily

identifiable key indicators of performance in various program areas such as safety and 

public health. The NPS, through its Integrated Pest Management (IPM), Public Health 

and other relevant programs, provides guidance, checklists and training to assist 

concession specialists to conduct these inspections. Concession specialists also review

documentation such as concessioner inspection logs and reports for various programs 

including IPM, as part of the Concessioner Review Program oversight function. 

3.3.3. Tier 3 of the process involves augmentation of this Park-level inspection process 

through the unplanned spot inspections and concessions document review by Integrated 

Pest Managers, Public Health Consultants and/or Safety Officers. These spot inspections

provide professional oversight of lodging facilities to check that safety and health 

obligations are being met by the concessioner. The number and locations for such spot 

inspections may be prioritized based on the known instances of or potential for particular 

safety or public health risk. These inspections are in addition to any inspections that may 

occur in direct response to a disease investigation. 

3.4. Disease Prevention and Response Team (DPRT) 

3.4.1. The OPH and the Biological Resources Division, Wildlife Health Branch (WHB) 

have partnered to provide interdisciplinary disease response relying on a One Health 

approach to disease investigation, response and management. This OPH and WHB 

partnership provides parks and regions with the option of requesting a Disease 

Prevention and Response Team (DPRT) to provide on-site support to address a potential 

or actual serious health threat, particularly zoonotic and vectorborne diseases, but also to 

include issues related to water, waste water and food systems. 

3.4.2. DPRT is a flexible, customizable team of subject matter experts and public health 

officials that may consist of an environmental health officer, a wildlife veterinarian, a

Page 4 of 6
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

physician, and a veterinary epidemiologist representing both human and veterinary 

health, for example. The DPRT team is intended to supplement park-based resources 

and lead personnel in response to emergent health and resource concerns. DPRT may act 

as a remote resource for parks, assisting with technical expertise and communications, or 

provide on-ground assistance and resources, depending on the scale and needs of the 

requesting park. Potential triggers for formal DPRT activation include: 

• Unusual wildlife mortality or morbidity event

• Event that overwhelms local capacity to respond

• Event with significant potential to impact natural resources, either in scope,

protected or charismatic species, or irreversible consequences

• Water, waste water or food system that may pose emergent threat to human

and/wildlife health

• Detection of a previously absent agent with significant cross-species infection

potential or potential for large environmental reservoir

• Event with significant political or public attention

• Human infection with an organism with high fatality rate or actual death

• Detection of a novel pathogen, either as a new organism or new geographic

location

• Any event at the discretion of park or One Health Network leadership

Once a DPRT is activated, specific investigative actions may include any or all of 

the following: 

• Communicate with stakeholders—Ensuring NPS and relevant partner agencies

and offices are informed of the situation and information is shared in a timely

manner; assisting with press releases and visitor and employee education as the

situation evolves

• Verify the diagnosis—Appropriate laboratory testing and discussions with local

and state health departments and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

(CDC); request for additional testing and/or consultation; this step can take time

and is an important “sorting” process with many reported cases turning out to be a

non-event or an non-park exposure

• Find additional cases—Active efforts to find other visitors or employees with

similar symptoms

• Conduct thorough system assessment (water, waste water, food) —Conduct

an on site evaluation of particular system that has been identified by park, region

as high risk for potential harm to human/animal health.

• Describe risk factors for illness—Among case-patients, identify commonalities

and patterns that suggest which populations are at risk; may involve more detailed

studies (e.g. standardized interviews, environmental samples)

• Implement control measures—Based on presumed or laboratory-confirmed

diagnoses, initiate prevention and control measures; the situation is frequently reassessed to see how well control measures are working and if additional

interventions are needed

Page 5 of 6
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

• Disseminate findings—Throughout the investigation, staff will communicate key

findings (e.g. briefing statements to park, region, and WASO management) with

the park superintendent and other designated park officials; we can assist with

educational material development, review, and dissemination to visitors,

employees, concessioners, and partners

• Improve Prevention – Disease transmission and outbreak response investigations

are conducted in a no fault approach with a central goal of learning from the event

and working with park staff to implement long term improvements in prevention;

findings may be translated into service wide actions if warranted

3.4.3. To request a DPRT, park managers must contact the OPH Director who will 

coordinate with partners to assess need and identify the appropriate team and response 

methodology to include time in the field, number and professional background of on-site 

and off-site support and length of response. 

3.4.4. Once affirmed the DPRT is necessary, the Superintendent (or Regional Director, 

or designee) request a formal DPRT response from the OPH Director. The OPH and 

WHB will issue a memorandum of agreement outlining the DPRT purpose, objectives 

and team assigned to be signed by the park/region to ensure resources are in place for the 

DPRT response. 

3.4.5. The requesting entity must cover any travel, lodging, and per diem costs associated 

with the DPRT deployment. 

3.4.6. Corps Officers will not require reimbursement for their regular salary, and do not 

receive any additional compensation or overtime pay for participating in a DPRT 

deployment. 

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REFERENCE MANUAL 83A 

CHAPTER 7 

COMMISSIONED CORPS SUPPORT FOR 

ALL HAZARDS INCIDENT AND EVENT MANAGEMENT 

TABLE OF CONTENTS: 

1.0 BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE 

2.0 AUTHORITY 

3.0 POLICIES, STANDARDS, AND PROCEDURES 

1.0 BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE 

The U.S. Public Health Service Commissioned Corps (Corps) is one of the seven Federal uniformed 

services of the United States Government. The Corps is comprised of an elite team of more than 6,700 

full-time, well-trained, highly qualified public health professionals who are presidentially appointed and 

serve under the United States Surgeon General in the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). 

Since 1921, when a formal agreement was established between the National Park Service and HHS, the 

Department of the Interior has had a cadre of U.S. Public Health Service Commissioned Corps officers 

(Corps Officers) assigned to the agency with a responsibility to perform a range of public health tasks 

required to support the mission of the DOI and its bureaus, including the National Park Service (NPS). 

In addition to the routine tasks performed at their regularly assigned duty stations within DOI, Corps 

Officers can be called upon by DOI leadership, NPS regional or park managers, or other bureau leaders to 

provide all hazards incident and event management support in response to incidents impacting the agency. 

Corps Officers are highly trained and prepared to provide federal public health and medical assistance in 

accordance with the National Incident Management System, National Response Framework, Emergency 

Support Function (ESF) #8 – Public Health and Medical Services, and coordinating ESFs, such as, ESF 

#11– Agriculture and Natural Resources. 

As part of their duty as uniformed officers, Corps Officers are assigned to serve on a preconfigured, 

deployable HHS response team. This has the added benefit of Corps Officers being trained and prepared 

to also provide all hazards incident and event management support to their assigned agency or 

department. This document discusses Commissioned Corps capabilities and how to request assistance 

within the DOI from the Commissioned Corps for all hazards incident and event management support 

outside of a Corps Officer’s routine role. 

2.0 AUTHORITY 

Corps Officers serve in positions throughout HHS and certain non-HHS federal agencies and programs 

in accordance with the Public Health Service Act (42 U.S. Code Chapter 6A). As such, a long standing 

Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) has existed between NPS and the Commissioned Corps, which 

allows for the official assignation of Corps Officers from HHS to NPS. In 2009, the MOA was expanded 

to the whole of DOI and its bureaus. The Office of Public Health (OPH) is the designated operational 

division for the purpose of carrying out the agreement on behalf of DOI.

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3.0 POLICIES, STANDARDS, AND PROCEDURES 

3.l. Corps Officer Capabilities and Skill Sets 

3.1.1. At minimum, Corps Officers maintain “Basic Ready” status and are prepared to deploy within 24 

or 72 hours of notification for deployments lasting two weeks or longer depending on the situation.

Commissioned Corps “Basic Ready” requirements include:

• Medical and physical fitness standards met

• Up-to-date immunization status

• Current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification

• Current license/certification/registration appropriate for their discipline

• Incident Management Training

o IS-100.B: Introduction to Incident Command System (ICS)

o IS-200.B: ICS for Single Resources and Initial Action Incidents

o IS-700.A: National Incident Management System (NIMS), An Introduction

o IS-800.B: National Response Framework (NRF), An Introduction

o Additional online courses in infectious disease, disaster response, triage, terrorism, safety

and security awareness

3.1.2. Professional disciplines represented among Corps Officers assigned to the Department of the 

Interior include but are not limited to: 

• Registered Environmental Health Specialist

• Registered Sanitarian

• Certified Industrial Hygienist

• Professional Engineer

• Licensed Veterinarian

• Registered Nurse

• Medical Doctor

• Physician Assistant

• Epidemiologist

Corps Officers possess a diverse skill set. Assistance can consist of personnel and technical related to a 

variety of public health and medical topics.

Areas of Assistance Include:

• Drinking water, recreational water, wastewater and solid waste management

• Worker health and safety

• Compliance with the nation’s environmental protection laws

• Public health surveillance and epidemiology

• Disease surveillance

• Outbreak investigation

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• Public health and medical information

• Risk communication and public information

• Engineering and project management services

• Facilities condition assessments

• Vector-borne and zoonotic disease management

• Veterinary or animal health issues

• All hazards incident management systems

3.2. How to Submit a Request for Assistance 

3.2.1. To request assistance for all hazards incident and event management from the Commissioned 

Corps, the requesting bureau representative or NPS park or regional manager must contact the OPH 

Director or Deputy Director. 

3.2.2. The OPH Director or Deputy will coordinate with requestor to further assess the need and identify

appropriate and available Corps Officers.

3.2.3. The requesting entity must cover any travel, lodging, and per diem costs associated with the 

deployment. 

3.2.4. Corps Officers will not require reimbursement for their regular salary, and do not receive any

additional compensation or overtime pay for participating in a deployment. Requests for assistance from

the assigned bureau, the department, or program will receive preference over outside requests for

assistance.

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REFERENCE MANUAL 83A 

CHAPTER 8 

SANCTIONED PUBLIC CONTACT WITH ANIMALS 

TABLE OF CONTENTS: 

1.0 BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE 

2.0 MANAGING GENERAL ANIMAL HEALTH 

3.0 MANAGING BREEDING ANIMAL HEALTH 

4.0 INFECTIOUS DISEASES ASSOCIATED WITH ANIMALS IN PUBLIC SETTINGS 

5.0 MANAGING ANIMALS IN AN EDUCATIONAL SETTING 

6.0 MANAGING HUMAN HEALTH IN SETTINGS WITH ANIMALS 

7.0 FURTHER INFORMATION AND REFERENCES 

Page 1 of 8 
 

 

1.0 PURPOSE AND BACKGROUND

The purpose of this chapter "Sanctioned Public Contact with Animals" is to 1) ensure animal 

welfare in public display settings and 2) prevent and mitigate the occurrence of zoonotic disease 

outbreaks in National Park units to safeguard the health of park visitors, staff, partners, 

concessionaires and the animals themselves. Park management can use the information in this 

memorandum in consultation with veterinarians, public health officials, state and local 

agriculture officials and/or other professionals to reduce the risk of disease transmission and 

promote animal welfare within the parks. For additional assistance in developing park-specific 

protocols, parks are encouraged to submit a Technical Assistance Request1 to the One Health or 

NPS Office of Public Health programs.

There are over 150 units within the National Park Service currently using or displaying living 

animals in several capacities. The types of animals in use or on display are livestock, captive 

wildlife and other domestic species. Specific examples of living animal use and display include: 

components of living history, ecological management tools (e.g., goats for vegetation 

management), cultural significance, recreation, pack stock, education ambassadors and several 

more. These uses and displays permit the interaction of humans and animals, which can lead to 

the direct or indirect transmission of diseases between animals and people (zoonotic diseases). 

Stressed and sick animals are known to shed infectious pathogens at higher rates than healthy 

animals so animal health and well-being is also of utmost importance. 

2.0 MANAGING GENERAL ANIMAL HEALTH 

2.1 All captive animals within the park setting should be in good health while they are being 

used or displayed so as to promote animal welfare and prevent the transmission of infectious 

diseases. Parks that own animals should have a working relationship with a local 

veterinarian and be current on routine vaccinations as appropriate to the species. Animal 

caretakers within the park should be trained to recognize signs of illness or stress in their 

species. 

2.2 All animals should be inspected by a veterinarian at minimum on an annual basis. This 

could include annual courtesy checks performed by the USDA. Work with your veterinarian 

to establish records for the health of the herd. Refer to policies in your state regarding 

vaccinations and preventative care. 

2.3 All animals should have a certificate of veterinary inspection (CVI) updated on an annual 

basis, if crossing state lines. Concessionaires and contractors providing animals for use 

within NPS should also provide a CVI for all provided animals. 

2.4 Animals should be housed in appropriate, clean, low-stress environments and should be 

permitted to enter off-display areas for rest periodically for livestock and at the animals’ 

1 https://irma.nps.gov/Star/ Accessed on 4/29/2019 

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discretion for wildlife species. Refer to the Animal Welfare Act2 and the Care and Use of 

Agricultural Animals Guidelines3 for specific recommendations. Animals in outdoor 

exhibits should be provided access to shade and parks with working animals should have 

guidelines for work duties that protect against heat and cold stress. Refer to Fencing 

Guidelines4, including the use of wildlife friendly fencing whenever possible. 

2.5 Animal caretakers and managers should monitor animals daily for signs of illness. When 

animals appear ill, they should be separated from group conspecifics (when applicable), 

removed from work or exhibition duties, and a veterinarian should be notified. 

2.6 Only trained staff should assist in handling, moving, or restraining animals. Refer to Animal 

Handling Safety5. 

2.7 Quarantine recommendations should be followed when introducing new animals to 

established herds for any reason or when animals appear ill. New or sick animals should be 

segregated from the existing herd for at least 21 days. Separate housing, feeding and birthing 

areas should be utilized for all new animals. Obtain veterinary records for new recruits. 

Monitor the new and sick animals frequently for signs of developing or changing illness. If 

detected, contact your veterinarian immediately. Refer to Animal Biosecurity678. 

3.0 MANAGING BREEDING ANIMAL HEALTH 

3.1 Breeding animals require additional veterinary care and management during breeding and 

birthing seasons. Birthing products and birthing environments pose higher disease risks to 

staff or visitors that are immunocompromised, pregnant or suffering from heart or blood 

vessel diseases. Every effort should be taken to ensure people with these conditions 

understand the risks of attending or working in birthing environments and follow 

appropriate personal protection guidelines or are re-assigned to other duties in order to 

reduce risk. 

3.2 Herd managers should have a working understanding of when animals breed, how to 

confirm pregnancy and how to appropriately prepare for the breeding season. 

3.3 If outside animals are brought in for breeding purposes, these animals should be current on 

routine vaccinations and have a certificate of veterinary inspection or animal health 

certificate from a licensed veterinarian within the previous 30 days. Animals temporarily 

removed from NPS facilities for breeding purposes should not be returned to the herd until 

2 https://www.aphis.usda.gov/aphis/ourfocus/animalwelfare/SA_AWA Accessed on 4/29/2019 3 https://aaalac.org/about/Ag_Guide_3rd_ed.pdf Accessed on 4/29/2019 4 https://safeagritourism.org/wp-content/uploads/Fencing_Guidelines_and_Recommendations.pdf Accessed on 

4/29/2019 

5 https://ehs.weill.cornell.edu/forms-resources/we-offer-services/animal-handlers Accessed on 4/29/2019 6 https://www.uvm.edu/~ascibios/?Page=Animal/Addition_of_New_Animals.html&SM=submenuanimal.html 

Accessed on 4/29/2019 

7 https://www.uvm.edu/~ascibios/?Page=Animal/Isolation_and_Quarantine.html&SM=submenuanimal.html 

Accessed on 4/29/2019 

8 https://extension.psu.edu/biosecurity-a-practical-approach Accessed on 4/29/2019 

Page 3 of 8 
 

 

 

they have been housed separately and observed for potential signs of illness for a minimum 

of 21 days. 

3.4 Animals that will not be used for breeding within a breeding herd should have some form of 

contraception (surgical alteration, boundary separation or medical intervention), be kept in a 

separate herd, or be sold. 

3.5 Birthing areas should be protected from public entry with access limited to trained animal 

handlers and managers. 

3.6 If abortions or still-births occur, the exhibit should be closed and a veterinarian should be 

contacted. 

3.7 Volunteer programs that engage the public in handling herd animals should feature a “best 

practices” training before the public can handle, feed or directly interact with the animals. 

Refer to Farm Safety Handout9

. 

4.0 INFECTIOUS DISEASES ASSOCIATED WITH ANIMALS IN PUBLIC SETTINGS 

4.1 Disease transmission can occur from either direct or indirect contact with animals. Direct 

physical contact includes touching, holding, kissing, being bitten and being scratched. 

Indirect contact includes contact with surfaces contaminated by animal saliva, blood, urine, 

nasal secretions, milk, feces or other bodily fluids. Animals that appear healthy are still 

capable of transmitting pathogens to people and causing human illness. Handwashing and 

good hand hygiene is the best method to prevent these diseases and therefore should be 

encouraged through the placement of signs and ready access to handwashing facilities when 

any physical contact with an animal occurs. 

4.2 Enteric pathogens, or those found in the digestive tracts, pose the highest risk for human 

disease from animals in public settings. While rare, these pathogens are capable of causing 

significant human illness, particularly in at-risk groups or from certain types of animals. 

Good hand hygiene should be promoted at all times, but especially when the following are 

encountered: 

4.2.1 These pathogens are spread via the fecal-to-oral route and only a small number 

of pathogens are required to cause human illness. Young children (< 5 years of 

age) are considered to have the greatest risk for infection and so educational 

messages should highlight this unique risk and should also target caretakers and 

guardians of young children. 

4.2.2 Typical sources of infection include: cattle, goats, sheep, poultry, rodents, 

reptiles, amphibians and other animals. Young animals are more likely to shed 

enteric pathogens than older animals. Stressful events can increase the 

likelihood and rate of pathogen shedding. Consider enhancing handwashing 

9 https://farmsafety.mo.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/8/2016/09/Livestock-Handling.pdf Accessed on 4/29/2019 

Page 4 of 8 
 

messaging during these periods of higher risk. 

4.2.3 Some of these pathogens can survive in the environment for long periods. 

Ensure that staff are aware of these risks when working in environments where 

livestock have been housed and follow good hand hygiene when working in 

these environments. 

4.3 Best practices for management of enteric pathogens: 

4.3.1 Regular handwashing after animal contact should be encouraged (hand sanitizer 

can be used temporarily but is not a substitute for soap and water). Refer to 

handwashing procedures and post signs encouraging handwashing where 

possible public contact with animals may occur. 

4.3.2 Animal enclosure surfaces should be cleaned regularly. Refer to Information on 

Disinfectants. 

4.3.3 Animals should be under preventative veterinary care and husbandry practices 

that minimize animal stress. Animal handlers and staff are trained to recognize 

signs of stress or illness in the species of animal under care. 

4.3.4 Animals should be assessed daily. Animals with diarrhea should be promptly 

removed from public contact. 

4.3.5 Eating, drinking, and smoking should not be allowed in areas with animals. 

4.3.6 Incidents of human illness should be reported to the NPS Office of Public 

Health. 

4.4 Animal bites and scratches can lead to pathogen transmission via open wound contact with 

animal mucus membranes and general wound contamination. Bite and scratch pathogens 

include rabies virus and several types of bacteria. Bites and scratches should be reported to a 

park safety officer and the Office of Public Health if rabies virus is a concern. 

4.5 Parks with owned animals or animals on display should be aware of the risks of rabies virus, 

routes of transmission, and proper steps to prevent rabies transmission to humans. 

4.5.1 Human rabies exposure occurs when an open wound or mucous membrane 

becomes contaminated with infected saliva or nervous tissue. 

4.5.2 Any mammal can become infected with rabies but the most commonly infected 

species include: bats, raccoons, skunks, foxes, cats, cows, horses, and dogs. 

4.5.3 Human infection with rabies virus is almost always fatal once clinical signs 

Page 5 of 8 
 

appear. 

4.6 Best practices for management of potential rabies exposure: 

4.6.1 All domestic animal species with potential public contact should have a current 

rabies vaccination and be under the care of a local veterinarian. 

4.6.2 Bite or scratch wounds should be promptly cleaned and assessed to determine 

the appropriate treatment. 

4.6.3 Animal bites or scratches should be reported to the NPS Office of Public Health 

and/or state public health authorities in order to evaluate the need for rabies 

post-exposure prophylaxis. 

4.7 Skin infections can result from direct skin contact with animals. Potential cutaneous 

pathogens include: ringworm, parapox virus, monkeypox, mycobacterium spp and external 

parasites (mites, fleas and ticks). Animals diagnosed with any of these conditions should be 

removed from public contact until the condition is successfully treated. Ectoparasite control 

should be considered for animals in public settings to reduce the risk of human exposure to 

flea and tick-borne diseases. 

4.8 Diseases transmitted through droplets or aerosols pose an important risk for disease 

transmission through indirect contact. The droplets can contain infectious pathogens from 

animals’ respiratory tracts, reproductive fluids or other sources. Cleaning procedures can 

raise dust in animal areas and increase the amount of infectious aerosols in the immediate 

environment. Potential aerosolized pathogens include: influenza virus, Q fever (Coxiella 

burnetii), tuberculosis and Chlamydophila psittaci. Public display areas should be wellventilated and animal areas should be closed to the public while dust-generating cleaning 

procedures are performed to minimize potential exposure. 

5.0 MANAGING ANIMALS IN AN EDUCATIONAL SETTING 

5.1 Venue operators and staff should be aware that certain populations are more likely than 

others to develop serious illness from diseases transmitted in animal contact settings. These 

groups include: 

 Children under 5 years of age 

 Adults over 65 years of age 

 Pregnant women 

 Immunocompromised individuals 

5.2 Pathogen shedding can be enhanced by stress induced by transportation, confinement, 

physical crowding and increased handling; caretakers should be aware of this risk and take 

Page 6 of 8 
 

 

 

 

 

steps to minimize each of these where possible. Animal handlers and managers should be 

aware of what signs of stress look like in species on exhibit and observe appropriate display 

and break period recommendations for those species. Additionally, housing multiple species 

within a single exhibit can also lead to increased disease transmission and is not 

recommended. 

5.3 Whenever the public is permitted to directly contact exhibited animals, supervision by 

experienced animal caretakers should be enforced for human and animal safety. 

5.4 Animals displaying signs of illness should be removed from the exhibition setting and a 

veterinarian should be notified. Refer to Animal Biosecurity101112 . 

5.5 Direct contact with species that could serve as an unvaccinated reservoir for Rabies virus 

(bats, raccoons, skunks, foxes and coyotes) should not be permitted. 

5.6 All domestic animal species with potential public contact should have a current rabies 

vaccination and be under the care of a local veterinarian. 

5.7 Direct contact with species that can produce venom, feature excessive strength or are 

unpredictable in nature should not be permitted. Species of primary concern include: nonhuman primates, certain carnivores (lions, tigers, ocelots, wolves, wolf hybrids and bears) 

and venomous species. 

5.8 If reptiles or amphibians are on display, the public should have no interaction with the tanks, 

water, filtration equipment or other tank contents. 

5.8.1 Reptiles smaller than 4 inches should not be touched or held by the public. 

5.8.2 Consider appropriate signage explaining the importance of handwashing after 

interacting with reptiles and amphibians. 

5.9 For children under 5, no pre-weaned calves, reptiles, amphibians or live poultry (including 

chicks) should be used for direct contact. 

6.0 MANAGING HUMAN HEALTH IN SETTINGS WITH ANIMALS 

6.1 Visitors should receive educational messages before entering a live animal exhibit, including 

information that animals can cause injuries and spread germs that may result in serious 

illness in people, and that proper handwashing is the best way to prevent illness. This 

10 https://www.uvm.edu/~ascibios/?Page=Animal/Addition_of_New_Animals.html&SM=submenuanimal.html 

Accessed on 4/29/2019 

11 https://www.uvm.edu/~ascibios/?Page=Animal/Isolation_and_Quarantine.html&SM=submenuanimal.html 

Accessed on 4/29/2019 

12 https://extension.psu.edu/biosecurity-a-practical-approach Accessed on 4/29/2019 

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messaging can be explained by park representatives or conveyed on readily visible, easily 

understood signs. Refer to Animals in Public Settings Guidelines13. 

6.2 For any instance when there is direct contact between human and animals, handwashing 

stations and public education promoting handwashing behaviors should be provided. Refer 

to Handwashing Signs1415 and Handwashing Procedures1617. 

6.3 Food and drink products should not be consumed in animal areas. 

6.4 The flow of visitor traffic should be arranged in such a manner that visitors travel through 

transition areas in between animal areas and non-animal areas. Refer to Animal Exhibit 

Safety18. 

6.5 Raw milk products should not be produced, distributed, sold or consumed on park lands, as 

these can carry bacteria that cause illness in humans. 

6.6 Horned animals should not have direct contact with the public. 

6.7 For any instance when an animal bites a human on NPS lands, park representatives should 

comply with local and state requirements for reporting animal bites and consider the 

possibility of rabies transmission. 

7.0 FURTHER INFORMATION AND REFERENCES 

7.1 Additional information or technical assistance: NPS One Health Program, Dr. Danielle 

Buttke, 970-267-2118; NPS Public Health Program, publichealthprogram@nps.gov, CAPT 

Sara Newman, 202-513-7225. 

13 http://nasphv.org/Documents/AnimalContactCompendium2017.pdf Accessed on 4/29/2019 14 https://www.uvm.edu/vtagritourism/?Page=farm-signage.html Accessed on 4/29/2019 15 https://safeagritourism.org/resources/ Accessed on 4/29/2019 16 https://safeagritourism.org/wp-content/uploads/HandwashingPoster.pdf Accessed on 4/29/2019 17 https://safeagritourism.org/wp-content/uploads/HandwashingPolicy.pdf Accessed on 4/29/2019 18 https://safeagritourism.org/wp-content/uploads/AnimalExhibitsSafety.pdf Accessed on 4/29/2019 

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