AWWA ACE70829

This powerpoint presentation begins by providing a brief overview of key water and water sector interdependencies. A pilot study at Seattle-King County is presented that had the following goals: to document current active and effective security and emergency practices related to a community's water sector; and, serve as a model for other communities. Methodology included: established Guidance Team of local agencies from multiple sectors; conducted meetings with individual utilities to collect information on water security practices; hosted workshop with utilities and collaborative agencies; and, met with local elected officials to strengthen support for security and preparedness. Key findings included: partnerships are essential; think long-term; secure leadership support; and, think broadly. A second pilot study of business resiliency at Chicagoland Water and Wastewater is presented with the following goals: foster a more comprehensive understanding of potential impacts of water infrastructure loss or interruption; foster better mutual understanding between the water sector utilities, and their customers; identify preparedness gaps in the public and private sectors; and, build regional capacity to prepare for, and respond to, a water emergency. Methodology included: emphasized establishing long-standing relationships and ongoing dialogue between public and private sectors; Water and Wastewater Preparedness and Business Resiliency Summit; and, Region 5 post-summit activities are focused on education, exercises, emergency planning, water conservation, and promoting continued dialogue between utilities and their customers. A third pilot study of hospitals and water is presented, and includes goals, methodology, and findings. Websites are provided for the final reports of each pilot study, along with a new project for community-based resiliency.