Water Infrastructure Resiliency and Sustainability Act of 2013 - Fall

This project analyzes H.R. 765, which aims to modernize aging water infrastructure and promote decentralized, green adaptation strategies to address changing hydrologic conditions. Climate change is altering precipitation patterns, increasing extreme weather events, and stressing outdated water systems across the United States. Despite the availability of cost-effective green infrastructure solutions, many operators remain reliant on traditional “gray” infrastructure approaches. The Act proposes EPA-administered grants to demonstrate decentralized, adaptive solutions that enhance water system resilience and shift industry mindset toward sustainable practices.

The team’s program design emphasizes lean administration across EPA headquarters and regional offices, tiered performance management systems, and strategic funding allocation. Key metrics include system reliability improvements, reduced emergency repair costs, adoption of green infrastructure technologies, and measurable resilience outcomes. The report concludes that H.R. 765 addresses both physical infrastructure deficits and institutional inertia. By demonstrating the effectiveness of green, adaptive solutions, the Act could catalyze long-term transformation in water management practices nationwide.

Learn more about the MPA-ESP Workshop in Applied Earth Systems Management.