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Recent rains have eased surface water shortages, but groundwater levels are still low. While we’re still very much in a drought if you look at rainfall over the last year, above average rain in February and March has improved conditions over much of the state. On the other hand, groundwater levels remain low, and will drop lower as the weather warms up and plants start water out of the ground more rapidly. That means folks dependent on wells, and on rivers fed by groundwater during the summer months, aren’t out of the woods yet.

The Governor proposed a bunch of good ideas. On March 11, Governor Easley unveiled a package of water conservation proposals for the state legislature to consider in its upcoming 2008 session. (To view the full press release click here.) Overall, we like the Governor’s emphasis on conservation and efficiency.  However, it doesn’t require local governments to link growth decisions to water availability, and doesn’t mention the long term need for a comprehensive water law. It will be up to citizen advocates to keep those ideas on the table as legislators prepare for the 2008 summer session and the long session of 2009.

Still, wise management of our water resources remains a priority. For the long term, the key to managing our water resources sustainably is to adopt a comprehensive water allocation statute—something many East Coast states have, but NC doesn’t. In the meantime, this year, the NC General Assembly can take major strides forward by adopting the policies recommended by the Governor, and by requiring local governments to consider water availability when approving new development.

For more detailed information please click here.