What is the basic definition of a public water supply system according to the Safe Drinking Water Act?

The definition provided in the correct choice is key to understanding what constitutes a public water supply system under the Safe Drinking Water Act. Specifically, a public water supply system is defined as one that supplies water intended for human consumption and serves either 15 service connections or more than 25 people for at least 60 days a year. This definition focuses on the critical aspect of human consumption, ensuring that the water quality meets the necessary safety standards to protect public health. The threshold of connections or population served indicates the scope and scale at which the system operates, thus falling under regulatory oversight to ensure that the water is safe and reliable for its users.

The other options do not align with this definition. For instance, the first choice mentions only 10 service connections, which falls short of the criteria set by the act. The third option focuses on agricultural use, which does not pertain to human consumption. Lastly, the fourth choice specifies irrigation usage, which again is not applicable to the public health standards associated with drinking water systems. Understanding this definition is crucial for water operators as it sets the framework for compliance with safety regulations and the responsibility of protecting public health through proper water quality management.