Demonstrating Dual Use: Using Security Monitoring Techniques to Enhance Operations and Quality in the Distribution System

Since 9/11, numerous communities have installed multi-parameter monitoring stations as early warning systems for potential water security threats. These continuous on-line systems have recorded large streams of data relevant to water quality in the distribution systems. In this study, data streams from a number of communities are analyzed for pertinent information as to the health and operation of the distribution system. Changes in water quality are correlated with known causes attributable to day-to-day operational and also anomalous events. Information concerning what if any action was taken to ameliorate the problem will also be linked to the data for the identified events. This sort of information is critical in understanding and improving the operation of our distribution systems. We will need to consider databases such as this before we determine the best course of action to ensure our water supplies meet acceptable levels of quality and safety from source to tap.