As Virginians, water is one of our most treasured natural resources.  Whether you live near the coast, the piedmont, or among the mountains and valleys, water is never far from sight or mind.  To the east lies the expansive Chesapeake Bay, fed by rivers like the James and the Potomac. Under our feet, much of the eastern part of the state enjoys one of the most productive groundwater aquifer systems in the country. However, these bountiful resources need proactive planning and management. 

The Water Supply Planning (WSP) program was created after the 2001-2002 drought. Its goal is to ensure adequate and safe drinking water is available to all Virginians, while encouraging, promoting, and protecting aquatic life, recreation, and other beneficial uses. The water supply planning process is a long-term collaborative effort involving a variety of state and local stakeholders. Localities take the lead role in identifying the needs of their communities and DEQ provides technical analysis and oversight. 

Water Supply Planning Guidance - Effective Nov. 8, 2025

The Local and Regional Water Supply Planning Regulation Guidance became effective on November 8, 2025. For more information, please see the Water Supply Planning Resources webpage. 

Water Supply Planning Regulation Amendments Approved - Effective Oct. 9, 2024

Amendments to the Local and Regional Water Supply Planning Regulation (9VAC25-780) became effective on October 9, 2024. For more information, please see the Water Supply Planning Resources webpage. 

VAHydro to myDEQ Database Migration - Effective April 1, 2024

Effective April 1, 2024 the VAHydro database has been replaced by the new myDEQ database. Please view the Water Withdrawal Reporting webpage for more information.