NACWA utility representatives, along with representatives from the Association of Clean Water Administrators (ACWA), met with EPA’s Office of Wastewater Management on January 25 to discuss cybersecurity at clean water utilities.  EPA is considering methods for improving cybersecurity, including potential requirements in utility National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permits.

During the meeting, NACWA’s representatives talked about the measures they have taken to improve cybersecurity and how they have responded to cyber-attacks.  Resources available through WaterISAC and the Department of Homeland Security’s Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) were discussed, as well as the need for additional financial and technical assistance for utilities, particularly small- and medium-sized utilities.

This meeting was an initial conversation between utilities, state regulators, and EPA to chart a path forward on cybersecurity.  NACWA anticipates additional conversations before any action is taken, and the Association will continue to gather input from its members on how utility cybersecurity can be improved. 

NACWA plans to seek member input at the Association’s Winter Conference next week, during the “Being Cybersecurity Ready” session on Tuesday, February 1.  NACWA members are also encouraged to contact Cynthia Finley, Director of Regulatory Affairs, to discuss cybersecurity.