Improved Operations through Data Utilization in Remote Alaskan Water Systems

Monitoring key processes in water distribution systems has long been recognized as a valuable resource for managing drinking water systems. Current sensor technology has allowed for an extensive set of data to be collected for water distribution systems; however, this data is largely untapped and underutilized. One significant barrier to leveraging the data is the need for technical expertise and sufficient workforce capacity to maintain sensors, as well as to analyze and process the data adequately in order to generate actionable insights that inform decision-making. The objective of this study is to generate actionable insights and information to guide decisions regarding water system management using limited low-cost sensors and minimal data analysis overhead. We analyze collected data for one community to identify key deviations in operations, such as unmeasured discharges and changes in pressure that rely on current operational routines. By employing simplified models that make data-driven decisions more accessible and practical for those on the ground, this study presents a practical decision-making approach that leverages the available data to facilitate the management of water distribution systems.