HD59 - Report of the State Water Commission


Executive Summary:
The State Water Commission is directed by statute to:

1. Study all aspects of water supply and allocation problems in the Commonwealth, whether these problems are of a quantitative or qualitative nature;

2. Coordinate the legislative recommendations of all other state entities having responsibilities with respect to water supply and allocation issues; and

3. Report annually its findings and recommendations to the Governor and General Assembly. (Va. Code § 9-145.8.)

To meet the legislative mandates and to continue its formulation of a comprehensive water policy, the Commission held four meetings during 1991: one in Newport News; one in Roanoke; and two in Richmond.

During its investigations, the Commission analyzed federal law pertaining to Virginia's water regulations, heard testimony from the State Water Control Board and the Department of Health regarding their study pursuant to House Joint Resolution 460 (1991), and reviewed Virginia's Ground Water Act and the Texas program for alleviating water supply problems.

The Commission had a change in membership at the close of 1991. Four members who served the Commission ably for several years will not be returning. The Commission appreciates the work of Delegate McClanan, Senators Anderson and Macfarlane, and Mr. Watts.