Many rural communities have severely limited access to a clean and affordable water supply and are considered to live in “water poverty.” Communities along the U.S./Mexico border — often called colonias — on Native American lands, and in the Appalachian region are at an especially high risk of water insecurity, as are communities with a high number of farm workers.
USDA’s Rural Water/Sewer programs protect public health and promote community stabilization and development. Businesses and industries are reluctant and often unable to locate in areas without functioning water and sewer systems. But with the assistance of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Rural Utilities programs, communities are able to develop the services they need so that their health and economies may benefit.