The Challenge of Aging Water Systems

As communities throughout this region are aware, the infrastructure of many of our water systems is aging to the point where there have been a number of water main breaks, leaks, and other occurrences that have been posing significant challenges to our communities. This was recently highlighted by an article in the Kennebec Journal (Augusta, ME). There are a number of initiatives in progress to address this issue, but there is a long ways to go.

Media report:

Kennebec Journal: Aging water systems pose huge challenges (30 JAN 12)

Background information:

New England City & Town: Public Works Issues: Water Infrastructure

New England Water Works Association

American Water Works Association

Water Environment Federation: Infrastructure

Water Infrastructure Network

EPA: Clean Water and Drinking Water Infrastructure Sustainability Policy

EPA: Aging Water Infrastructure Research

Urban Land Institute: Infrastructure 2010: An Investment Imperative (2010)

EPA: Asset Management for Local Officials (2008)

National Environmental Services Center: Managing Aging Water Infrastructure Assets: Planning Ahead Saves Time and Money (2009)

EPA: Research Plan: Innovation and Research for Water Infrastructure for the 21st Century (2007)

EPA: The Clean Water and Drinking Water Infrastructure Gap Analysis (2002)