Source: New England Environmental Finance Center at the University of Southern Maine
Publication: Water Utility Service Continuity Readiness Tool
Date: 2026

Water Utility Service Continuity and Readiness isn’t just about bouncing back from a disaster, it’s about being prepared before anything goes wrong. Many threats to water service continuity, from cyberattacks to staffing shortages, don’t come with warning signs. That’s why increasing your readiness means strengthening your day-to-day operations, not just your emergency plans.

The Water Utility Service Continuity Readiness Tool was developed to provide a structured and accessible entry point into comprehensive planning. This tool offers utility operators a high-level self-assessment across nine core areas of utility service continuity, including vulnerability assessments, emergency response, cybersecurity, financial stability, and community-based preparedness. It enables utilities to identify gaps in preparedness and prioritize follow-up actions. In addition to diagnostic checklists, the tool connects users with free training, guidance, and technical assistance resources.