Environment

The pre-eminent environmental challenge facing West Virginia is our natural water supply. Tied to this is the intolerable deterioration of public water systems, especially in the coal fields of southern West Virginia. In 21st century USA, every American, let alone every West Virginian, should be confident that their public water system delivers clean, safe water. Fulfilling this goal will require 3 steps. First, we must protect the integrity of the water sources from which we draw our water. Second, we must have vigorous monitoring to ensure these sources continue to meet water quality standards. These measures will have a positive impact on our environment, recreation, and tourism. With clean, safe water sources, the final measure is to restore and refurbish aging public water systems that fail to deliver clean, safe water. This will be a long term, expensive proposition but critical to the health and future of West Virginia.