[20030521]RS21026_水基础设施部门面临的恐怖主义和安全问题.pdf

1 For additional information, see the CRS Electronic Briefing Book on Terrorismhttp:/www.congress.gov/brbk/html/ebter1.html.Congressional Research Service The Library of CongressCRS Report for CongressReceived through the CRS WebOrder Code RS21026Updated May 21, 2003Terrorism and Security Issues Facing theWater Infrastructure SectorClaudia Copeland and Betsy CodyResources, Science, and Industry DivisionSummaryDamage to or destruction of the nations water supply and water qualityinfrastructure by terrorist attack could disrupt the delivery of vital human services in thiscountry, threatening public health and the environment, or possibly causing loss of life.Interest in such problems has increased since the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks.Across the country, water infrastructure systems extend over vast areas, and ownershipand operation responsibility are both public and private but are overwhelmingly non-federal. Since the attacks, federal dam operators and water and wastewater utilities havebeen under heightened security conditions and are evaluating security plans andmeasures. Policymakers are considering a number of options, including enhancedphysical security, better commu