The 1996 Safe Drinking Water Act Amendments created the Capacity Development Program to strengthen the technical, managerial, and financial capacity of water systems.  More information on technical, managerial and financial capacity is as follows:

• Financial
• Managerial
• Technical
• Training Opportunities
• Technical Assistance
• Links to other Resources

There are three components to MDE’s Capacity Development Program:

1. A water system must have adequate “capacity” to be eligible for Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF) financing.  For any water system applying for financial assistance for capital improvement projects, MDE assesses the applicant’s technical, managerial and financial capacity.  If a system lacks capacity, it is not eligible for financial assistance unless the use of the financial assistance would ensure compliance and adequate capacity. 
2.  Proposed new water systems must demonstrate to MDE that they have adequate capacity before a construction permit can be approved.  Completion of a capacity development plan as outlined in COMAR 26.04.01.36, is required to demonstrate adequate capacity development.
3. MDE undertakes numerous efforts to improve the technical, managerial and financial capacity of existing water systems.  These efforts include extensive technical assistance, training, sanitary survey follow up and financial assistance.

For More Information

For more information contact the Water Supply Program at 410-537-3589 or water.supply@maryland.gov.​​