During a visit to Rocky Gorge Reservoir near Laurel, Md., U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Christie Whitman announced the first round of water security grants, part of $53 million to help large drinking water utilities across the nation assess their vulnerabilities. It is expected that in upcoming weeks, approximately 400 grants will be provided to assist utilities with security planning.

“Shortly after the terrorist attacks of September 11, the EPA redoubled efforts already underway to promote security at America’s 168,000 public drinking water facilities,” said Whitman. “These grants will help ensure that the water people rely on is safe and secure.”