Office of Governor Gary Locke
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - October 18, 2002
Contact:  Governor's Communications Office, 360-902-4136

Gov. Gary Locke Proclaims October Clean Water Month

Gov. Gary Locke today signed a proclamation celebrating October 2002 as Clean Water Month.

This recognition comes on the 30th anniversary of the 1972 Federal Water Pollution Control Act (Clean Water Act) and the observance of National Water Quality Monitoring Day. Both efforts are intended to raise public awareness about the importance of clean water.

The governor’s proclamation highlights the need to protect public health, fisheries and wildlife and to ensure abundant opportunities for public recreation. It also stresses that citizens and business should do their best to take care of and preserve water resources.

“Clean water is a limited natural resource that must be used wisely,” Locke said. “We all share in this responsibility as government, industry, farmers and citizens. These efforts will enable us to take care of and preserve water resources for current and future generations.”

As part of National Water Quality Monitoring Day, Washington will join people around the country in testing the water quality of their local streams and lakes. Almost 2,700 groups have volunteered to participate in this nationwide effort, including more than 200 groups in Washington state coordinated by the Washington State Department of Ecology.

“I urge citizens to take this opportunity to learn more about water issues in their communities,” Locke said.

---

Related Links:
- Washington State Department of Ecology

» Return to this month's News Releases

» View News Release Archive