What is meant by the term "system resiliency" in water distribution?

System resiliency in water distribution refers to the capacity of the system to withstand and recover from disruptions or emergencies. This includes natural disasters, such as floods and earthquakes, as well as man-made incidents like contamination or system failures. A resilient water distribution system is designed to maintain service during adverse conditions and quickly restore normal operations following an incident.

Resiliency is critical in ensuring that communities have a reliable supply of safe drinking water, especially during crises when the demand for water may increase or when infrastructure is damaged. This concept encompasses not just the physical infrastructure but also operational strategies, planning, and community engagement in preparing for and responding to emergencies.

The other options reflect different aspects of water management but do not capture the core meaning of resiliency within the context of maintaining service continuity and effective recovery after disruptions. For instance, generating excess water, while potentially beneficial, does not directly relate to the system's ability to manage emergencies. Similarly, the speed of treatment processes and flexibility in pricing strategies address operational efficiency and financial aspects, rather than the critical focus on resilience in the face of challenges.