What is the main concern associated with nonmunicipal community water systems?

The main concern associated with nonmunicipal community water systems is indeed the lack of regulation. Nonmunicipal community water systems often serve smaller populations and may not be subject to the same stringent federal and state regulations that larger municipal systems must follow. This can lead to variability in water quality, safety, and overall management practices since these smaller systems may not have the resources or oversight typically applicable to larger systems. The absence of regulation can result in potential issues such as inadequate monitoring, insufficient water treatment, and reduced accountability, which can adversely affect the health and safety of the community's water supply.

High operational costs and limited service area are legitimate concerns for nonmunicipal systems, but they primarily stem from the challenges of managing a smaller water system rather than being the central regulatory issue. Low water quality, while also an important factor, is typically a consequence of inadequate regulations rather than a primary characteristic of nonmunicipal systems. Therefore, the lack of regulation encompasses a broader range of concerns related to operational standards, water safety, and community health.