Letter: Waterways important in many ways

In response to September 3’s article, “Rivanna River and other waterways key to summer fun,” waterways are important not only for fun but many industries livelihood. Waterways are a huge part of how we enjoy summers in Virginia. I know I can’t get through summer without waterskiing or floating down a river in a raft. And I’m not alone. In fact, there are over 236,000 registered boats in Virginia. This just goes to show how much people love being out on the water.

That’s why it’s good news that a new rule by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency just took effect. This Rule restores protections to 57% of Virginia’s rivers and streams. The 28,737 miles of streams now guaranteed protection against pollution and development under the Clean Water Act include many that feed and clean the Rivanna River and the James River.

The Clean Water Rule is the biggest step forward for clean water in a decade. Our leaders, especially Senator Mark Warner, should back the rule so that Virginians can continue to enjoy our rivers and lakes for many summers and generations to come.

Letter from Frances Klein/Environment Virginia