ADVOCACY
The Ipswich River Watershed Association is an organization of citizens like you. Together, we are the voice of the river!
We speak up for safe, fair and sustainable use of our water. Our advocacy efforts focus on ensuring that federal, state and local water policies, water withdrawal permits, and regulatory decisions are protective of ecosystem health and include prudent water conservation measures. We also comment on proposed development projects that have significant potential to impact the Ipswich River and its watershed.
Every year, government officials make decisions about water use, wastewater treatment, environmental law enforcement and other matters. In Massachusetts, local government officials have a particularly strong role in protecting the river. Collectively, federal, state and town officials literally have the fate of the river in their hands! We strive to work collaboratively with both watershed communities and state and federal agencies to restore and protect the river.
NET ZERO POLICY
After a 10 year lull, development is once again increasing rapidly in the region, causing new water demand to increase. Due to the critical importance of the river to our communities, the Ipswich River Watershed Association advocates for a Net Zero Water Use Policy or Water Neutral Growth Policy. The policy advises that every development project that utilizes water from the Ipswich River watershed does not increase water use above existing levels, resulting in “net zero” water use. We recommend that all cities and towns using Ipswich River water supplies adopt the Net Zero Policy to minimize new water demand when approving projects on both public and private water systems.
To assist communities with developing the program and regulations to implement this new Net Zero Water Use policy, the Ipswich River Watershed Association is developing a comprehensive toolkit and technical services program to support water neutral growth within the 13 cities and towns that depend on Ipswich River water to help institute these practices. Learn about the Net Zero Policy Toolkit here.
BECOME AN IPSWICH RIVER ADVOCATE
For more information about our policy & advocacy work and for updates on legislation impacting the river, sign up for our Advocacy Alerts below.