Staff at the Center for Water Quality also investigates links between environmental exposures in water and health impacts. We are concerned with differing forms of wastewater effluent and how they impact individuals — this includes individual wastewater treatment systems, such as septic tanks, and larger municipal wastewater discharge and storm water. These discharges contain levels of pollutants that are potentially harmful to human health; we are currently investigating these links.
We’re engaged in the process of strengthening protective laws and commenting at public hearings on local policy matters; and we’re concerned with any pending legislation or existing policy that is not protective enough of our streams, wetlands and lakes. Our intent is to continue to research alternatives and comment on proposals. We remain involved in the continued work to find viable solutions to College Lake and Blackwater/Ivy Creek.
Our sustainability work involves planting gardens next to the center at Beaver Point to produce sustainable food and teach students sustainable practices. We will continue to work on projects that improve the sustainable use of water including rainwater harvesting for gardens and sustainable systems in use at the center.
