EPA releases rivers and streams assessment, seeks input on modernizing survey methods
Upcoming Events
Related News

On December 31, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) released a final report – National Rivers and Streams Assessment (NRSA) 2013-2014: A Collaborative Survey – that provides a snapshot of water quality in U.S. rivers and streams. The NRSA is one of the four National Aquatic Resource Surveys (NARS) designed to assess the quality of America’s water resources. In addition, the agency is seeking input on all aspects of the design and implementation of the NARS program to improve future assessments. To provide comments, click here.
In a statement released by the EPA, the agency acknowledges that the NARS assessment methods may not reflect the best scientific methods currently available. EPA intends to modernize and improve the scientific methods and approaches that are utilized in the NARS program so that the development of future assessments will be more transparent and the surveys can better and more quickly inform the public about the quality of the nation’s surface waters. Click here to view the specific topics the EPA is seeking input on.
Among a county’s numerous responsibilities, environmental stewardship is a primary function to create healthy, safe and vibrant communities for our residents. As both regulators and regulated entities, counties are responsible for protecting local air, water and land resources. This includes maintaining water systems to provide clean drinking water, revitalizing contaminated sites to ensure safe and equitable neighborhoods, providing waste and recycling services to minimize pollution and implementing land use and energy policies to promote sustainability communities, along with many other duties.
Featured Initiative
Waters of the U.S. Action Center

Related News

U.S. Congress passes reconciliation bill: What it means for counties
On July 3, the U.S. Congress passed sweeping budget reconciliation legislation.

White House signs executive orders to advance nuclear power
On May 23, President Trump signed four executive orders focused on expanding the nuclear energy industry. The executive orders aim to position nuclear power as a key contributor to energy reliability, economic growth and national security — especially as artificial intelligence, advanced manufacturing and military operations increase demand for stable, high-density power sources.

U.S. Supreme Court issues unanimous decision in landmark National Environmental Policy Act case
On May 29, the U.S. Supreme Court issued a unanimous decision in Seven County Infrastructure Coalition v. Eagle County, Colorado that will reshape requirements for National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) environment impact statements.