What are the two major classifications of water supply?

The two major classifications of water supply are groundwater and surface water due to their fundamental differences in source and characteristics. Groundwater is stored in aquifers beneath the earth’s surface and is typically accessed through wells. It is often purer and less susceptible to direct contamination from surface activities, making it a crucial source for drinking and irrigation.

Surface water, on the other hand, includes rivers, lakes, and reservoirs, and is directly affected by environmental factors, such as rainfall and climatic conditions. It serves as a primary source for many municipal water supplies and is essential for ecosystems.

Understanding these classifications is vital for water resource management and planning. It helps in developing strategies for sustainable use, pollution control, and ensuring that communities have access to clean and safe water. Other classifications mentioned, such as rainwater, wastewater, and desalinated water, while important, fall under specific categories of water within the broader definitions of groundwater and surface water.