Alternatives to conventional coagulation water filtration plants (those that utilize coagulation, flocculation, sedimentation and filtration) may be appropriate for some small water utilities. One such alternative is slow rate filtration. This paper describes pilot plant studies undertaken to evaluate slow rate filtration for the removal of particulates, total coliforms, standard plate count bacteria, and organics (TOC and THMFP). Two pilot-scale filtration systems were used: a slow sand filter (operated over 800 days), and a second slow sand filter operated in parallel with a slow rate filter containing granular activated carbon media (operated over 200 days). Results from both systems will be presented.