Governor Culver Applauds Clean Water Action

Press Release

Governor Chet Culver applauded the passage of a key measure to protect Iowa's water quality. The Administrative Rules Review Committee (ARRC) approved a critically important set of new rules governing our watersheds that are designed to comply with the federal Clean Water Act and to prevent Iowa's waters from becoming more polluted.

The revised anti-degradation policy conforms to standards determined by the federal Clean Water Act and establishes a new tier of high-quality waters identified as outstanding resource waters that provide exceptional recreational or ecological significance. The new anti-degradation policy was a result of 13 public meetings held across the state that included more than 900 concerned citizens.

"This is good news today for all Iowans, and I thank the Committee for taking action that will allow the anti-degradation rules to go into effect. I strongly supported the efforts of the Environmental Protection Commission and the Department of Natural Resources for their efforts to create an effective, common-sense Iowa approach to this critical issue. Public officials must do everything reasonably possible to provide cost-effective approaches to ensure safe drinking water and to improve natural areas for all Iowans to enjoy," said Governor Chet Culver. "As we continue to fight for Iowa families, we must not overlook the importance of protecting the state's valuable natural resources."

"This policy not only protects the environment, but is also a benefit to the economy by making Iowa a better place to live and do business," said DNR Director Richard Leopold. "These changes allow us to give thoughtful consideration on future impacts to water quality in Iowa and how we can work more closely with citizens to identify ways that allow our economy to thrive while protecting and enhancing our environment."

The ARRC is comprised of House and Senate members, of both parties, who meet to review administrative rules that are issued by executive agencies to assure that the rules are compliant with the intent of state law. The Governor, through his appointee, sits on the ARRC in a non-voting, ex-officio capacity. The ARRC supported the rules, without changes or delay at today's meeting held at the State Capitol.

More information on water degradation can be found at the Iowa Department of Natural Resources website at http://www.iowadnr.gov/water/standards/antidegradation.html.

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