Water Distribution

Systems Toolkit

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OVERVIEW

The United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has established 18 sectors of infrastructure that comprise a network of critical physical, cyber, and human assets. One of these sectors is the Water Sector. The Water Sector Research and Development Working Group has stated that water utilities would benefit from a clearer and more consistent understanding of their system flow dynamics. Understanding flow dynamics is important to interpreting water quality measurements and to inform basic operational decision making of the water utility. Such capabilities are critical for utilities to be able to identify when a possible attack has occurred as well as knowing how to respond in the event of such an attack.

As a result of this identified need, DHS contracted with the National Institute for Hometown Security (NIHS) to administer a project to address this need. NIHS subsequently contracted with the Kentucky Water Resources Research Institute (KWRRI) to perform the research. The research team assembled by the KWRRI included faculty and staff from the University of Kentucky, the University of Missouri, the University of Cincinnati, and Western Kentucky University.

This research project was implemented to better understand the impact of water distribution system flow dynamics in addressing such issues. In particular, the project: (1) tested the efficacy and resiliency of the real-time hydraulic/water quality model using stored SCADA data in order to understand the potential accuracy of such models, and understand the relationship between observed water quality changes and network flow dynamic and (2) developed a toolkit for use by water utilities to select the appropriate level of operational tools in support of their operational needs.

The Water Distribution System Operational Toolkit Website has been developed to assist water utilities in the operation of their water distribution system. Specific operational objectives could include:

• Maintaining adequate flows and pressures
• Minimizing water quality problems
• Minimizing operational cost
• Scheduling maintenance and system rehabilitation
• Responding to emergency situations

The website provides access to narrative content (including technical publications and case studies) along with access to several mathematical tools and software. The content can be accessed either through a self directed process involving the Operational Guidance link of the website, or through a user guided application (called Water Wizard) that can be accessed either directly on-line or can be downloaded and installed on a particular device. This feature can be accessed through the Operational Wizard link of the website.