Flint Crisis Awakens Nation + Resources

This post first appeared on LinkedIn.

Flint has awakened the nation to the problems around our crumbling infrastructure.

If you’re concerned about lead in your water, this @PostCrescent report by Wisconsin’s Center for Investigative Reporting provides practical steps that local consumers can take to minimize problems while infrastructure is addressed.

My recent foray into the water industry has made me aware of a number of  groups that provide free information and access to experts to address issues such as those we’re seeing in Flint and California:

Water Experts Available via Networks and Open Data Initiatives

• The Water Network, by AquaSPE AG is the leading online knowledge sharing platform and business exchange for global water professionals. “Aqua Scientia Potentia est” – Water Knowledge is Power.
• The Global Water Port, an online research and collaboration powerhouse developed by The Water Council to enhance connectivity within the water technology sector and among those interested in finding solutions to water-related challenges. Powered by the innovationExchange™ and enabled by its affiliate inno360™, a cognitive intelligence and predictive research engine equipped with IBM Watson™, individuals from any industry, organization or enterprise can use the Port to inform, accelerate and evolve water technology innovation.
• The Open Water Data Initiative designed to improve water information for decision making on natural resources and environmental protection, managed by the Department of the Interior through the U.S. Geological Survey.

On World Water Day, we will hear of another data initiative that will make water knowledge more accessible and management more efficient and affordable.   Hats off to Madison, Wisconsin for taking lead out (and taking the lead) in replacing pipes, starting in 2001!