by Brianna Crandall — May 4, 2011—The Obama administration released a national clean water framework April 27 that emphasizes the importance of partnerships and coordination with states, local communities, stakeholders and the public to protect public health and water quality, and promote the nation’s energy and economic security.
The framework includes draft federal guidance to clarify which waters are protected by the nearly 40-year-old Clean Water Act nationwide; innovative partnerships and programs to improve water quality and water efficiency; and initiatives to revitalize communities and economies by restoring rivers and critical watersheds.
The Administration says it is using the latest science and research to improve water management policies and programs for more water-efficient communities, and to identify and address emerging pollution challenges.
The Administration is also aggressively pursuing new ways to protect public health by reducing contaminants in Americans’ drinking water. It is updating drinking water standards, protecting drinking water sources, modernizing the tools available to communities to meet their clean water requirements, and providing affordable clean water services in rural communities.
