AUBURN – Water district officials are seeking proposals for a vulnerability assessment and emergency response plan for the water distribution systems associated with Lake Auburn.

Auburn and Lewiston will share a matching grant for the study that is mandated by the federal Homeland Security Act.

The Twin Cities are allowed to conduct the study jointly because they share a common drinking water source. The cost of the study is expected to be under $40,000, according to Norm Lamie, general manager of the Auburn Water District. Each city will receive up to $10,000 toward its portion of the cost.

The results of the study must be turned in to the Department of Homeland Security by June 30, 2004. Every drinking water distribution system in the United States is required to conduct a study and report the findings to the federal agency.

The purpose of the study is to determine which areas of a water source or distribution system could be vulnerable and how to address the issues.

“It was pushed by Homeland Security for threats of terrorism, but it’s effective against vandalism, too,” said John Storer, Auburn’s district engineer.

Auburn Water District Trustees have voted to accept Auburn’s portion of the federal grant. The Lewiston City Council is expected to take similar action soon. A bid will be awarded in mid-December.