AWWA to Lead Study on Water Demand, Climate Change

The American Water Works Association (AWWA) announced on Nov. 2 that it will be leading a "groundbreaking" new study to examine water demand in the context of climate change.

According to an AWWA press release (PDF):

(WASHINGTON, DC) – The American Water Works Association (AWWA) today announced it will lead a ground-breaking new study on how municipalities forecast water demand within the context of anticipated climate change.

The project, funded by a grant from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), will provide recommendations on how to improve current water demand forecasting and identify areas of essential future research.

The study includes an assessment of current computer models, workshops to identify knowledge gaps, development of research priorities, and recommendations for reducing risk through improved demand forecasting. The researchers will conduct model simulations at two drinking water utilities.

“This project is historic in its focus,” said AWWA Executive Director David LaFrance. “Most studies on climate change and drinking water have focused on the supply side, looking at water resources. The examination of water demand adds an important new perspective. AWWA is excited about the opportunity to help municipalities deal with the complex questions surrounding water demand and climate change.”

AWWA Director of Federal Relations Alan Roberson will serve as principal investigator for the project. Other members of the project team include faculty from George Washington University and the University of Colorado at Boulder, along with staff from the environmental facilitator, Kearns & West.

The project will take approximately two years to complete.