This project was developed with two primary objectives: (1) to identify potential benefits to drinking water utilities from an environmental management system (EMS) and (2) to define steps necessary to develop a water utility sector'specific EMS model from which utilities could create their own EMS. This report reflects both the initial research into alternative EMS models and a ?best practices? guidance based on the ISO 14001 framework. With the input of leading private and public water utilities, this document was developed to assist water utilities interested in developing an EMS that will support and ensure continual improvement, increase thoroughness in compliance efforts, and demonstrate environmental excellence. Includes CD with Appendices.