The EPA on Tuesday, Aug. 17, launched a Web-based discussion forum to get public opinions on a new strategy for water control. The agency has been trying to reshape how it deals with water pollution in the U.S., in particular how it will respond to non-point source pollution, nutrient levels, and water shortages in many parts of the country.

"We look forward to reviewing the ideas and feedback from the public," said Peter S. Silva, assistant administrator for the EPA's Office of Water. "This online discussion is for anyone who wants to share their input on protecting drinking water and improving public health."

The agency said it wants input from water professionals, advocates and anyone interested in drinking water quality issues about best solutions for issues facing our nation's drinking water-planning, developing scientific tools, controlling water pollution and use of resources. The discussion forum will feature a series of topics based on the four segments of the drinking water strategy:

1. Addressing contaminants as groups rather than one at a time,
2. Fostering development of new technologies
3. Using the existing authority of several statues to protect drinking water, and
4. Partnering with states to share more complete data
.

The forum will be open for discussion for about a month, with each topic area being discussed separately.

To join the discussion visit http://blog.epa.gov/dwstrat.

The strategy was announced in March. Read PE's previous coverage.