An environmental group is celebrating an unusual birthday. The Rivanna Conservation Society hosted a forum Thursday to mark 40 years of the Clean Water Act.
The meeting brought together Charlottesville and Albemarle County government officials as well as people simply interested in clean water and doing their part to help out. The discussion was led by a three-member panel and focused on the impact of the Clean Water Act over the last 40 years.
The meeting was part of a monthlong Rivanna River and Reservoir Makeover initiative. It was also a chance for those who have dedicated themselves to promoting clean water to celebrate a statute that's been a significant part of their lives.
Speakers reminded attendees what the Clean Water Act includes and how to continue making progress.
"Speaking to the choir is one thing," said Rivanna Conservation Society Executive Director Robbi Savage. "The important thing is to enhance our own understanding, but also to reach to the public and say you know this isn't just the government's job. We can't just pay somebody to fix the pollution that we created."
They also touched on topics like stormwater, pollution and what the act has done for farmers.
The Rivanna River and Reservoir Makeover initiative wraps up on October 27. If you would like to get involved, click here.
Reported by Marcella Robertson
