The primary goal of the Water Department is to provide a long-term, adequate, and safe water supply while keeping the service at a reasonable cost. About 75 percent of Westford residents receive their water from the public water supply. The department employs a staff of thirteen. The superintendent and the three-member (with an alternate) Water Commission are responsible for providing adequate water services to the town.  The commissioners are appointed by the Town Manager for a term of three years. The department must adhere to strict water quality requirements established and enforced by the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection and by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.  A 1996 evaluation of the Westford water system reflected an above-average rating.