Pond industry opposes EPA restrictions
19 Aug, 2008 LM Direct!WASHINGTON, D.C. — Representatives of the International Professional Pond Contractors Association (IPPCA) met with officials from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to discuss the IPPCA’s concerns over language in the landscaping section of the newly proposed EPA Water Sense New Home Specifications Program that is poised to be launched before the end of the year.
The meeting was hosted by Andy Smith, external affairs officer of the Irrigation Association (IA).
The current EPA language has drastic restrictions on turf, landscape amenities and irrigation, as well as a total ban on Ornamental Water Features, which could have adverse short and long-term effects to the multi-billion dollar Green Industry, but more importantly to the environment.
The GIC strongly opposed the one-size-fits-all approach taken by the current language in the specifications of the proposed program.
"This action represents a total reversal to past EPA actions, grants, programs and recommendations to the general public promoting ponds, waterfalls, streams, and eco-friendly site practices," said Freddie Combas of the IPPCA. The EPA acknowledged that the language as it pertained to Ornamental Water Features was too broad and that clarification was needed.
The IPPCA led in the formation of a Pond and Waterscape Industry Coalition that includes major businesses, associations, manufacturers and hobbyists involved in the Pond and Waterscape Industry. The IPPCA diligently worked to create new language for the EPA that would be more favorable and acceptable to the Pond and Waterscape Industry. In less than 24 hours the newly proposed language was signed and endorsed by more than 145 concerned entities.
The IPPCA’s concerns were presented to the EPA, along with a host of scientific test data and possible alternate solutions. One of the main solutions of the many that were presented was the need for proper education on efficient water use as it pertains to the outdoor landscape. Efficient water use by the homeowner and proper water efficient landscape design, amenity choices and qualified installation by the contractor(s) were the primary focus.
"All parties present agreed to jointly work towards a revised program that will accomplish the common goal of water use efficiency and conservation,” said IPPCA Executive Director Dave Jones. “As a result, the IPPCA considers the meeting a major success for the Pond and Waterscape Industry Coalition."
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