Calls for regional approach with experienced water professionals
The Nassau Suffolk Water Commissioners Association (NSWCA) recently met to discuss pending legislation about Long Island aquifers and the regional water landscape of the future.
Mr. Dennis Kelleher, President of H2M Architects + Engineers (Melville), a leading engineering and environmental firm, spoke about several resolutions recently introduced in both the Nassau and Suffolk County Legislatures, to create a regional management commission.
Mr. Kelleher noted, “Both counties utilize a sole source aquifer. Long Island needs to take a regional approach to our future based on scientific fact, not politics. Our aquifer is vast, but it is threatened in numerous areas. For example, not every water supplier has salt water intrusion, but as a region, we have to consider that as well as plume monitoring, water table levels and other vital issues, island-wide.”
Mr. Kelleher explained that the proposed resolutions would include creation of a Long Island Aquifer Commission. He led a lively discussion regarding the proposed number of members on the commission, who would appoint those members and the necessity for industry credentials. “We must get all parties to appreciate the importance of this aquifer, understand the daily needs of Long Islanders, and elevate the value of water in the public’s mind.”
NSWCA President Gary Brosnan asserted “As the stewards closest to water production, safety, and environmental and conservation issues, the NSWCA endorses the creation of a Long Island Aquifer Commission. We believe it can be especially effective if the committee includes experienced, qualified representation with first hand knowledge of the drinking water issues that affect nearly 3 million Long Island residents.
Brosnan added, “The NSWCA wants to continue to ensure that besides maintaining the highest possible levels of quality, our water remains the least expensive of all utilities.”
About Nassau-Suffolk Water Commissioners Association
The NSWCA is comprised of Water Commissioners from 21 Nassau County and Suffolk County Water Districts. NSWCA is dedicated to communication, efficiency and best practices among Long Island’s water districts. As part of its mission, the association holds monthly educational meetings sponsoring experts on topics that include law, cost efficiencies, rules and regulations and issues germane to water utilities.
For further information, please contact the Nassau Suffolk Water Commissioners Association President: Mr. Gary Brosnan: (516) 249-3330 or email: gary@sfwater.com
For information regarding your district’s Water Commissioners, please contact: Mr. Jamie Stanco, Progressive Marketing Group, Inc. at (631) 756-7160. jpstanco@pmgstrategic.com
Agency Contact Information: Mr. Jamie Stanco, Progressive Marketing Group, Inc. Phone: (631) 756-7160. jpstanco@pmgstrategic.com