Statement for the Record
Senator Bob Graham
Subcommittee on Fisheries, Wildlife and Water
Hearing Water Infrastructure
Tuesday, March 27, 2001

Mr. Chairman, The health of our communities, environment, and economy are directly linked to maintaining, replacing, and expanding our nation's infrastructure systems. I would add that ensuring water supply as a part of these infrastructure needs is equally important.

I come from a state which is relatively new, especially compared to the states of the Northeast. This makes the needs of Florida and similar states rather unique. In some instances Florida is still establishing its infrastructure system. The sewage problem in the Florida keys is a prime example of this. Currently, sewage from communities in the Keys is disposed of out to sea where fragile marine habitats and coral reefs are impacted. We are working to correct this problem with the help of the federal government, but it remains an example of the need for expanded wastewater infrastructure.

In addition, a number of eastern states, including Florida, are experiencing water supply problems similar to those in the arid West. In Florida a prolonged period of drought coupled with population growth is creating a serious strain on current water supplies. It is important for states and communities to deal with these kinds of supply issues, and I believe that we should keep in mind water supply and small systems for drinking water compliance when we talk about water infrastructure needs.

Florida is growing. Our nation as a whole is growing. And both will continue to grow whether or not water supply is addressed now or when it reaches a crisis level. As we move forward in these discussions, we must think about what the nation will look like in the future and keep this knowledge in mind as we attempt to determine solutions for our water infrastructure needs.

Thank you, Mr. Chairman.