Clean water is the responsibility of all

Federal law requires water awareness

In this, the 30th anniversary of the Clean Water Act, Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Christie Whitman is urging Americans to celebrate the Year of Clean Water by becoming aware and pitching in to help.

The Clean Water Act, enacted in 1972, set the goal of restoring and maintaining the chemical, physical and biological integrity of the nation’s waters.

Whitman emphasized that "most Americans would agree that the quality of both surface waters and drinking water has improved dramatically over the past quarter century, but there is still much to be done."

"It is not only a celebration but a re-commitment to the Clean Water Act’s goals of fishable and swimmable waters," said Whitman. "Americans can learn about watersheds and water pollution and celebrate the vitality of our national water resources."

Whitman also suggested ways Americans can participate:

•Learn about local watershed organizations in your area and get involved;

•Help organize a stream or beach cleanup;

•Talk to schoolchildren about water pollution and about what they can do to help.

"When you improperly change your oil or put excess fertilizer on your lawn or fail to pick up after your dog, these all have the potential to drain into our lakes and streams and pollute our water," said Whitman.

"This is the message we are trying to get out—that there is so much we as individuals can do to clean up more of our waters and do an even better job of meeting the Clean Water Act goals."

EPA is working with America’s Clean Water Foundation, federal agencies, state and local entities and citizens on events throughout the year. EPA has launched its own Website for the 30th Anniversary of the Clean Water Act. For more information visit www.epa.gov.

This story was provided by the North American Precis Syndicate.