AWWA WQTC69348

The Ohio River is one of the most heavily industrialized rivers in the continental United States. The development of an interstate agency in 1948 called ORSANCO paved the way for the development of pollution control technologies, water quality standards and source water monitoring programs. Municipal and industrial advisory committees provide input to ORSANCO on the program needs and successes. ORSANCO's organics detection system has detected numerous unreported spills and discharges of volatile organic chemicals to the Ohio River, alerting drinking water utilities to their presence. Communication networks convey information to utilities on contaminant plumes, river velocities and other vital spill-related information. Wastewater discharge, dredging and construction permits are reviewed for their potential to adversely affect drinking water intakes. Meetings are held to promote agency source water protection programs and the development of source water protection plans tailored specifically to the Ohio River. Includes figures.