Tuesday, Aug 9 2011 3:19PM
The USDA and EPA announced they will work together to improve access to clean drinking water for rural communities nationwide.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) recently announced they will partner to improve access to clean drinking water and install or repair wastewater systems in rural communities nationwide.
The plan aims to help rural municipalities that have struggled to obtain clean drinking water and maintain sewer systems due to financial restraints or a lack of resources.
The government agencies' efforts also will create employment opportunities for many rural residents by offering job training for positions in the water industry.
"EPA and USDA have joined forces to leverage our expertise and resources to improve drinking water and wastewater systems in small towns across the country," said Acting Assistant Administrator for EPA's Office of Water, Nancy Stoner. "A critical part of this agreement is to ensure that we have a well-trained, professional workforce available to replace workers when they leave or retire."
USDA's Rural Utilities Service Administrator Jonathan Adelstein added the joint effort will help rural residents nationwide by ensuring they have access to well-managed water and wastewater systems for years to come.