Agenda - 04-13-1999 - 3 - Laserfiche WebLink

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GOAL STATEMENT: Develop a long -range study andplanningprocess to identify and address the impacts of various land uses and waste treatment options on the quantity and quality of the ground and surface water resources of Orange County, so that these impacts can be factored into long -term planning. Goal Initiated/Proposed By: Board of County Commissioners Most Recent Version Adopted by BOCC: April 1998 This initiative represents an objective first included among the Commissioners' goals for FY 1993 -94. A Water Resources Committee was formed in 1993 to oversee work in this area. Currently, the project is in the second of a three -year Ground Water Resource Investigation in conjunction with the U.S. Geological Survey. Phase I of this investigation, a report on ground water recharge rates in the county, was completed in October, 1996. Data collection is a continuing part of the project, with all new wells and septic tanks in the county accurately located with GPS (Global Positioning System) receivers. This data resource allows for GIS mapping and coverages which can be overlain for presentation and analysis, a version of which was presented to the Board in December 1998. Public education initiatives are also an important part of the project. A new service for County citizens, the Ground Water Center; began operation in July, 1996. Housed in the Soil and Water District office, the Ground Water Center answers or forward, citizen inquiries and questions about ground water issues All activities in this project are`funded through a special project budget. The projected County funding needs for FY 99 -00 total $95,844, which includes $75,115 for the final installment of the USGS resource investigation cost -share and approximately $17,000 to fund the part-time Water Resources Technician. Completion of this goal will involve the following continuing commitment of existing staff resources from multiple departments: ERC Director, Water Resources Technician (part- time), and ERC Administrative Assistant. Additional assistance from the County Engineer, Soil and Water Office, Environmental Health and Cooperative Extension is also a part of this project.