Each source of water, be it lake, reservoir, estuary, stream, or river, is classified according to a predetermined designated use. When waters are of sufficient quality to fulfill their classification requirements, they are said to support their classification. To be designated for human consumption, a water supply must be fit for drinking, culinary, and other domestic purposes, such as inclusion in food products. State standards specify maximum concentration levels of potentially harmful contaminants. Unless noted otherwise, all criteria are applicable to drinking water after treatment.
Technology varies according to the funding available to the local public works department.
Check with local water plant managers for details. An industry includes water in non-food products, processing, and cooling. Examples include the pulp and paper industry, chemical manufacturing, and steelworking. Water is used to supplement precipitation for growing crops . Water is used by livestock and poultry for drinking and cleansing.