Seismic Resiliency – A Topic for Discussion in the Water World

The American Water Works Association (AWWA), Pacific Northwest Section’s October meeting focused on seismic resiliency and emergency preparedness by discussing strategies implemented by the Willamette Water Supply Program in building a water delivery system that should withstand a disaster.

The meeting emphasized the importance of building a water supply distribution system on soils that will be less prone to shifting when a disaster, such as an earthquake, strikes. Discussion also ensued relating to a new type of water supply pipe that can withstand ground motion and deformation.

The presentation encouraged all entities in the water delivery sector, no matter at what stage in the water supply distribution process they are involved, to prepare a disaster plan and to develop infrastructure in a way that will withstand the forces of a disaster with minimal damage.

In attending this meeting, it was evident how important it can be to look at not only the minor legal aspects of a client’s current issue, but also to understand and know how the client operates their system. Knowing and understanding the “Big Picture” will allow us to engage in discussions on seismic resiliency and disaster preparedness for our purveyor clients.