Source Water is the raw, untreated supply of water from surface water or groundwater used for current or future drinking water. Source Water protection reduces the risk of water getting contaminated. It is a very efficient and cost saving way to protect the safety and long-term use of safe drinking water for our communities. Source Water Protection Program works with water systems and communities on source water planning and partners with other state, federal, local entities for special projects that study important source water threats and issues.