A public water system must serve how many connections or people at a minimum?

A public water system is defined by its capacity to serve a minimum population or number of connections. The correct answer, which states that a public water system must serve at least 15 connections or 25 people, aligns with the established criteria set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Safe Drinking Water Act.

This minimum threshold is important because it ensures that water systems are large enough to be regulated effectively. If a system serves fewer connections or people, it may not have the same regulatory requirements, which can affect water safety and quality. By defining these minimums, the EPA aims to safeguard public health by ensuring that even smaller systems operate under certain standards and practices that promote clean and safe drinking water.

The other options state higher or lower minimums than what is established, which would not accurately reflect the federal guidelines. Recognizing the importance of these criteria helps reinforce proper management and safety in public water systems.