In order to help change future policy direction toward the protection of our water resources, Sonoma County Water Coalition (SCWC), consisting of 31 organizations representing more than 24,000 concerned citizens, resolves as follows:
SCWC will continue to work with elected officials, governmental agencies and others to focus attention on water resource issues, give input on proposed water policy and contribute to the improvement of our local water environment;
SCWC will advocate for development that will require no net increase in potable water demand;
SCWC will advocate for reduced greenhouse gas emissions with special focus on those emissions created by water use and by water and wastewater infrastructure;
SCWC will continue to lobby for groundwater management programs that emphasize both natural and enhanced recharge and include retaining rainwater and irrigation runoff as close to the site of origin as possible;
SCWC will advocate for protection and restoration of our waterways, wetlands, forests, and other native habitats;
SCWC will advocate for advanced wastewater treatment options that assure that any discharge of treated wastewater is of the highest quality;
SCWC will advocate for conservation and source control as the first defense against water waste and water pollution;
SCWC will advocate for infrastructure repair as a first resort in order to minimize pollution and diminish water waste by water and wastewater utilities;
SCWC will advocate for advanced testing and regulation of emerging contaminants, including personal care products and pharmaceuticals, and, where that is not possible,
SCWC will promote the Precautionary Principle which advocates avoiding harm first, before toxic substances are discharged, in circumstances where toxic impacts cannot be immediately addressed;
Therefore, be it resolved that Sonoma County Water Coalition will devote itself to educating its members, decision-makers and the public, advocating for effective policies to repair ecosystem damage, and working to ensure clean water supplies for future generations.