2018 – Resiliency for Water and Wastewater Facilities – MA DEP

Authors:
Faria Kader (ME ’20), Michael Kirejczyk (BME ’20), MaryLouise Ross (BME ’20)

Sponsors:
Ann Lowery- Deputy Assistant Commissioner, Bureau of Planning and Evaluation
James Doucett- Clean Energy Results Program
Kristin Divris- Water Utility Resilience Program
Michael DiBara- Clean Energy Results Program

“MassDEP ensures clean air, land and water. We oversee the safe management and recycling of solid and hazardous wastes. We ensure the timely cleanup of hazardous waste sites and spills. And we work to preserve the state’s wetlands and coastal resources.” – Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection

Advisor: Seth Tuler

Abstract:

In the United States, more frequent and intense storms have been threatening vital water infrastructure, including wastewater and drinking water systems. We worked with MassDEP to to improve back-up power capabilities to respond to power outages in wastewater facilities. Using data from MassDEP and EPA, we assessed risks and vulnerabilities associated with power loss. We concluded that the lack of data inhibits the ability to assess vulnerability. In addition, we found that facility managers could benefit from an interactive digital map of back-up power capabilities at wastewater facilities and information about opportunities to obtain funding to support upgrades. We recommend the MassDEP take further action to increase data quality and improve informational resources for facilities.