EPA announces local clean water awards program

As part of the celebration of the 30th Anniversary of the Clean Water Act, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is launching a major new recognition program for local governments that are taking extraordinary steps to protect and enhance the health of the nation's waters.

This program, called Clean Water Partners for the 21st Century, will recognize local governments that are moving beyond clean water regulatory requirements to help achieve even greater levels of protection for the nation's water resources.

EPA is undertaking this effort in partnership with a number of leading local and state organizations.

EPA expects to recognize those entities accepted into the program in fall 2003.

For more information, visit