Measures to protect Americans and their interests from terrorist acts have intensified since the events of September 11, 2001. Activities are underway at all levels of government, academic institutions, trade associations, and other organizations that share critical responsibilities related to homeland security, including drinking water protection. A major program is underway to assess vulnerabilities at public water supply facilities and prepare emergency response plans. While this effort is significant, an Environmental Law Institute® research report finds that additional opportunities exist to strengthen the protection of the nation’s drinking water for security and conventional purposes.
Homeland Security and Drinking Water Protection: An Opportunity for Comprehensive Protection of A Vital Natural Resource identifies opportunities for constructive interaction between federal, state, and local governments; water utilities; emergency personnel; academic institutions; health, technical and legal sectors; non-governmental organizations; and the general public. The report focuses on five areas with great potential for collaboration — water infrastructure, public engagement, public health, technological advances, and emergency preparedness."Cooperation between governments, the private sector, public interest organizations, and the public at large plays an integral role in homeland security," said B. Suzi Ruhl, author of the report and Director of ELI’s Center for Public Health and Law. "In a time of limited government resources, collaboration between diverse sectors of society enables us to protect our communities from acts of terrorism and strengthen core drinking water, public health, and emergency preparedness services."
The report also discusses federal homeland security authorities and programs, and federal environmental authorities and their potential applicability to homeland security issues. In addition, the report addresses the vital role of states in protecting drinking water and homeland security, and identifies state legislation and policies adopted to this end.
Copies of Homeland Security and Drinking Water Protection, a summary brochure, and related materials are available for free download at www.elistore.org. For more information about this report, please contact B. Suzi Ruhl, Director of ELI’s Center for Public Health and Law, at ruhl@eli.org or 202-939-3800.