Government

Government building.

The role of government in managing water resources is not limited to setting water quality standards, issuing permits, or ensuring supply. Government is also responsible for developing drought or emergency plans and for encouraging certain water rate structures that can support conservation. Without the help of local government, advances in water conservation in our communities will be minimal.

All levels of government can lead by example by adopting exceptional conservation practices. President Obama, for example, demonstrated a commitment to leading by example in October 2009 when he set sustainability goals for all federal agencies, including reducing water use by 26 percent by 2020.

 

What You Can Do:

  • Municipal and county governments in Pennsylvania can also lead by example by establishing their own water use reduction goals. Government agencies can reach their goals by reviewing the best management practices outlined by the U.S. Department of Energy's Federal Energy Management Program.
  • Local governments can also promote efficient water use and water conservation by partnering with programs such as EPA's WaterSense. State and local governments and other nonprofit organizations that promote water efficiency can become WaterSense promotional partners. Promotional partners enjoy exclusive use of tools, materials, and resources for strengthening their outreach messaging.

Additional Resources:

Programs

  • WaterSense is an EPA partnership program that labels water-efficient products and partners with state and local governments to promote water efficiency and conservation.
  • The Federal Energy Management Program provides information including best management practices and case studies for reducing water use and improving conservation at government facilities.
  • Water Management Training for government facility managers is available through the Federal Energy Management Program.

 

Publications

  • The comprehensive county water plans of Chester County and Montgomery County can serve as examples for other counties in the Commonwealth when drafting or revising their own water plans.
  • The guidance document Water Management: A Comprehensive Approach for Facilities Managers was developed for government facilities managers by the General Services Administration.
  • In October 2009, President Obama signed an executive order that focuses on environmental leadership, including increased water conservation, by all federal government agencies.
  • The Pennsylvania State University Cooperative Extension published the guidance document Community Water Conservation, which includes steps that municipal governments can take to encourae its residents to practice water conservation practices.

 

 

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