Unless the state has granted a waiver, how many coliform samples are required per month for water systems serving a population between 25 and 100?

For water systems serving a population between 25 and 100, the requirement is to collect one coliform sample per month, unless a waiver has been granted by the state. This sampling frequency is established to ensure that the water is safe for consumption and that any potential contamination is monitored effectively.

The rationale behind this requirement is based on the need for regular testing to detect the presence of coliform bacteria, which can indicate fecal contamination and the potential presence of harmful pathogens. Collecting one sample monthly is considered sufficient for this population size, providing a balance between ensuring public health safety and the logistical factors involved in sampling.

In contrast, for larger populations, the number of required samples increases to adequately cover the increased water distribution and usage, reflecting a greater potential for contamination. Thus, the selected sampling frequency is tailored specifically to the size of the population being served, ensuring resources are appropriately allocated while maintaining public health standards.