Water Program

VNRC's Water Program is a leader in the restoration and enhancement of Vermont's water resources. Vermont is blessed with abundant high quality rivers, lakes, and wetland complexes. These resources are an essential component of the Vermont landscape, and an integral part of all Vermonters' lives. Vermont's exceptional water resources are irreplaceable contributions to Vermont's natural heritage. The management of these water resources is a continuous process, and sometimes requires difficult choices. VNRC is committed to ensuring that conservation and stewardship, rooted in sound scientific research, public education, and hard hitting advocacy, are part of this process.

The Water Program at VNRC focuses on:

• Aggressively pursuing the full implementation of Vermont's water quality standards, and seeking appropriate classifications and designations for all Vermont waters.
• Initiating actions before the Vermont Water Resources Board to secure the maximum protection for Vermont's wetland resources.
• Encouraging and promoting modern urban storm water controls and proper agricultural and silvicultural management practices to reduce the negative effects of non-point source runoff.
• Protecting aquatic biological diversity, ecologically important natural systems, and the connectivity of Vermont's lowland and upland aquatic habitats.
• Actively participating in planning and management for Vermont's waters to ensure that our polluted waters are made clean and our clean waters stay clean.