What does "source protection" entail in water management?

"Source protection" in water management specifically refers to efforts aimed at safeguarding water sources, such as rivers, lakes, and aquifers, from contamination and degradation. This is critical because clean and safe water sources are essential for public health, ecosystem health, and long-term sustainability of water supply.

Source protection measures can include establishing buffer zones around water bodies, regulating land use in watersheds, monitoring potential pollutants, and creating public awareness campaigns about the importance of protecting these sources. By focusing on safeguarding water sources, water management ensures the integrity of the water supply, preventing contamination before it can affect water quality and availability.

The other options represent different aspects of water management but do not encapsulate the essence of source protection. While expanding the water supply, implementing testing laws, or constructing new treatment facilities may be important for ensuring adequate water resources and quality, they do not directly address the proactive measures taken to protect the source itself from potential threats.