This text is from an email alert sent out on May 10th, 2013:
Supporter,
Loudoun, like all counties in our area, is considering ways to reduce the pollutants flowing into local streams and creeks, including sediment, nitrogen, phosphorus, among others.
The County’s proposed plan aims to make local streams like Sugarland Run, Goose Creek, Catoctin Creek, Bull Run healthier, safer for recreation, a cleaner source of drinking water, and also do our part to restore water quality in the Potomac River and Chesapeake Bay. We all need to participate to make it happen and your individual actions and support of the plan are important to its success.
Support Cleaner Water in Loudoun
Send an email to our Board of Supervisors, letting them know you support efforts to reduce local pollution flowing into Loudoun’s streams and creeks.
What It Would Take To Make Real Progress
With public support, the solutions are pretty straightforward and effective. In addition, we’d suggest the plan include implementation measures like:
- Provide an education and outreach program about the direct and indirect benefits of the proposed pollution reduction practices outlined in the plan.
- Install demonstration projects that show what’s being proposed, how pollution will be reduced and the benefits to property owners.
- Create incentive, recognition and reward programs. Explore tax exemptions and other strategies to reward those who implement the practices.
- Facilitate conservation projects with county equipment and resources.
- Collaborate with other localities to request that State and Federal governments provide significant increases in cost-share funding.
- Pursue partnerships with private industry for grants, cost-share funding and material support.
- Encourage local businesses to take voluntary pollution reduction measures on their properties.
- The County should lead by example by implementing practical and innovative measures on county property — including schools, transportation facilities, parks, and other public facilities.
There is one sticking point though — as drafted, the plan relies almost entirely on voluntary implementation. Let’s be honest, we’re going to need creative and innovative funding and financing solutions to make any of these ideas happen. We’re also going to need leadership at the county level to get behind these efforts.
Weigh In At One Of Three Community Meetings
There are plenty of traditional and innovative ideas for funding, but it all starts with a commitment and this is where public opinion is critical. There are three open-house style community meetings where you can weigh in. The first one was last night in Ashburn, the other two are coming up next week. County staff will be available to answer your questions and take input:
Community Meeting in Potomac Falls
Tuesday, May 9th from 6-7:30pm
Cascades Library
Community Meeting in Purcellville
Thursday, May 14th from 6-7:30pm
Purcellville Town Hall
Comment cards will be available at the meetings. If you cannot attend a meeting, you can review the draft plan online and send your comments to Alan.Brewer@loudoun.gov. We’ve also created an advocacy campaign that targets both him and the Loudoun Board of Supervisors.
Sincerely,
Gem Bingol
Loudoun County Land Use Officer
The Piedmont Environmental Council
gbingol@pecva.org
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