Tell Gov. Northam: Restore and Protect Clean Water in Virginia.
Virginia just issued one of the strongest plans for clean water in history. But it's only words on paper unless clean water programs are fully funded and implemented.
Time is running out for Virginia to meet its clean water goals by the 2025 deadline. The recent plan released by Governor Northam includes an all-hands-on-deck approach—Virginia homeowners, businesses, and farmers all need to help restore the Bay and our local waterways.
We are starting to see the benefits of Virginia's investments in water quality. We need to maintain momentum and finish the job. The Commonwealth's culture, economy, and way of life depend on clean water. Take action now and urge Governor Northam to fully fund Virginia's Watershed Implementation Plan!
Subject: Keep VA's Local Waters Clean: Fund the Watershed Implementation Plan
I'm encouraged by Virginia's strong Watershed Implementation Plan (WIP) that will help clean local waters as well as meet Bay restoration goals by 2025. Thank you for developing this strong plan.
Now that we have this ambitious roadmap, please fully fund implementation of the WIP by proposing the following for each year of your budget:
- $55 million for waste water treatment plant upgrades.
- $100 million in cost-share for agricultural best management practices and technical assistance to reduce runoff from farms.
- $80 million for the Stormwater Local Assistance Fund to help localities reduce runoff from urban and suburban lands.
- Sufficient funding for DEQ, DCR, and other state agencies that permit, monitor, and enforce programs to protect water quality from land disturbing activities.
We are now starting to see the benefits of Virginia's investments in water quality. Let's maintain the momentum and finish the job. I look forward to seeing this plan fully implemented to realize a restored Bay and healthy waterways.
Sincerely,
[Your name]
