 |
| Wilson Helps Dedicate NISAC at Sandia |
September 18, 2006 |
| |
| Sandia-based Center Is a Vital Homeland Security Tool
Albuquerque – Congresswoman Heather Wilson today joined Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff and Sen. Pete Domenici to dedicate the National Infrastructure Simulation and Analysis Center (NISAC) at Sandia National Laboratories.
Wilson secured the initial funding to start the program in 1999. She and Domenici have worked together since then on the effort.
NISAC uses advanced computer modeling and simulation to look at the vulnerabilities of major public infrastructure like roads, electricity transmission, telecommunications, water and railways. After September 11, 2001, NISAC gained wide support as an important tool to help protect the Homeland by identifying vulnerabilities and helping to plan for natural disasters or terror attacks. NISAC was incorporated into the Department of Homeland Security at its creation.
Chertoff, Domenici and Wilson today toured the facility and participated in a ribbon-cutting ceremony.
“Seven years ago, this was just an idea some engineers and scientists from Sandia and Los Alamos had that they could use advanced modeling and simulation tools developed for the nuclear weapons program to protect vital infrastructure. Now it’s a major program and an important tool in the Homeland Security tool kit,” Wilson said. “I`m glad to see it come this far.”
When Hurricanes Katrina and Rita struck the Gulf Coast, NISAC provided accurate predictions about the failure of the levees and the status of other critical infrastructure throughout the region.
- END - |
|
|
|