EPA Allocates $9 Million To Fortify Drinking Water Systems
Federal funding and new recommendations aim to protect water from cyberattacks and natural disasters.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced today a new grant program offering over $9 million in funding to midsize and large water systems. This initiative, part of the Midsize and Large Drinking Water System Infrastructure Resilience and Sustainability grant program, is designed to help bolster drinking water infrastructure against cybersecurity threats and extreme weather events.
EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin emphasized the importance of these systems, stating, “Drinking water and wastewater systems play a foundational role in EPA’s Powering the Great American Comeback Initiative.” The new funding, along with a newly published report, provides a proactive approach to strengthening water systems nationwide.
Public water systems serving 10,000 or more people are eligible to apply for the grant funding. The application window is open for 60 days on the government website, www.grants.gov. The program is authorized under the Safe Drinking Water Act and is a key part of the EPA’s strategy to enhance the resilience of the nation’s water infrastructure.
In addition to the grant funding, the EPA also published a report titled “Securing the Future of Water: Addressing Cyber Threats Today.” The report outlines 10 recommendations developed by a Water Sector Cybersecurity Task Force to create a more secure and resilient water sector. The recommendations call for a holistic approach, encouraging enhanced collaboration between government, associations, and water utilities.
Key actions accompanying the recommendations include developing specialized cybersecurity leadership training for the water sector, increasing direct technical assistance, and integrating cybersecurity into operator certification and continuing education programs.
This effort is in response to a significant rise in cyberattacks against water systems over the past few years, which can disrupt services and compromise drinking water safety. The EPA and its partners are taking these steps to ensure that the vital lifeline of clean and safe water remains protected for all American communities, industries, and institutions.
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