(LEXINGTON, VA)—Today Virginia Governor Ralph Northam committed to supporting an increase that would triple Virginia's natural resources funding. Governor Northam also signed an executive order today to strengthen Virginia's Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) and other natural resources agencies. Chesapeake Bay Foundation (CBF) Virginia Executive Director Rebecca LePrell Tomazin issued the following statement.
"We can't have a fully restored Chesapeake Bay and clean rivers and streams without strong natural resources agencies in Virginia, especially DEQ. Today's announcement is encouraging and commendable. Governor Northam's support for an unprecedented investment in natural resources shows genuine commitment to providing Virginians with cleaner water and a healthier environment. The Governor's practical plan will revitalize natural resources agencies by addressing gaps in funding, bolstering science and monitoring, and increasing transparency.
"This is great news, and an important step toward meeting the Chesapeake Clean Water Blueprint's goal of a fully restored Bay by 2025. A lot of progress has been made, but so much more is left to be done. CBF is looking forward to working with Governor Northam, the Secretary of Natural Resources, and the dedicated staff at Virginia's natural resources agencies to reach Virginia's clean water goals."
