October 17, 2002

NATIONAL MONITORING DAY:
MECKLENBURG COUNTY CELEBRATES THE CLEAN WATER ACT

Charlotte, NC –Three decades ago this week, efforts to keep our water clean took a giant leap forward.   Friday, October 18, 2002, marks the 30th anniversary of the enactment of the Clean Water Act.  Across the nation and Mecklenburg County, community leaders, residents, and Groundwater Guardians will celebrate this milestone event with National Water Monitoring Day, an annual event designed to raise awareness of the need to protect our nation’s water resources.

Two celebrations in Mecklenburg County will include students from Independence High School and Olympic High School, who are members of the Groundwater Guardian teams.

· Mint Hill Park: 8850 Fairview Road, Mint Hill, 3 p.m.
Students will sample a well at the park and compare the results with the headwaters of Goose Creek.

· McDowell Nature Center and Preserve (boat rental area): 15222 York Road, Charlotte, 3 p.m.
Students will sample a well and compare the results with water from Lake Wylie.

The Groundwater Guardian communities of Mint Hill and Steele Creek, and the Mecklenburg County Land Use and Environmental Services Groundwater Program, sponsor the events.   For more information about Mecklenburg County’s groundwater programs, call 704-336-5500 or check the Web site www.charmeck.org.  For more information about National Monitoring Day and the Clean Water Act, check www.yearofcleanwater.org.  

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Media contact: Alex  Burnett (O) 704-432-0361 (M) 704-579-0288 or burnear@co.mecklenburg.nc.us.