Dams are critical infrastructure that provide essential services such as water supply, hydropower, and flood control. However, aging infrastructure and the increasing connectivity of dam operations and control systems pose growing risks. This presentation will examine emerging challenges related to dam safety and cybersecurity.

Specifically, it will cover:

• Key dam safety risks such as aging components, but increased network and technological connectivity. Case studies of critical infrastructure incidents (ie. hacks) will illustrate the potential consequences.
• The evolution of dam operations and control systems, and their increasing reliance on digital networks and automation. How this expanded connectivity introduces cyber risks that could disrupt operations or allow malicious actors to remotely manipulate dam functions.
• Recent government and industry efforts to strengthen dam safety policies, regulation, and technological safeguards. Discussion will focus on risk assessment, emergency preparedness, increased monitoring/control capabilities, and information sharing.
• Strategies and best practices for securing dam control systems against cyber threats. Topics will include network segmentation, access controls, encryption, system redundancy, employee training, and incident response planning.
• Policy considerations such as balancing improved cybersecurity and dam safety with efficient operations and affordable solutions.

By examining these critical dam safety and cybersecurity challenges, this presentation will provide attendees with greater awareness of the risks involved and actions that can be taken to help protect these vital structures. The talk will be relevant for professionals, policy makers, and others with interests in critical infrastructure protection.