March 2017 Update Virginia's Phase III Watershed Implementation Plan (WIP) Update: Local Engagement Program for the Chesapeake Bay Clean Up In light of the strong emphasis on local engagement for the Phase III WIP, Virginia has developed and begun implementing a local engagement program that will continue throughout the Phase III WIP development process and beyond. The components of the local engagement program include: . Ongoing meetings of the Chesapeake Bay Stakeholder Advisory Group (SAG). This group is comprised of representatives of the agricultural, conservation, development and industrial communities as well as representatives of local governments and soil & water quality conservation districts. The state will be providing updates to this group and eliciting their comments on all aspects of Phase III WIP planning, including the local engagement program. Outreach to local government, soil & water conservation district and stakeholder association meetings to provide continuous updates throughout the Phase III WIP process. Initial regional outreach meetings to local governments and soil & water conservation districts throughout the Chesapeake Bay Watershed portion of the state (currently on-going). Facilitated work sessions for local governments, soil & water conservation districts and stakeholders. These work sessions will involve training on the various tools available for the development and prioritization of pollutant reducing strategies and how to report Best Management Practices (BMPs). On-going assistance to local governments and stakeholders and outreach. For more information, visit the webpage below or contact Joan Salvati at
[email protected],(804) 698- 4230. http://www.deq.virginia.gov/Programs/Water/ChesapeakeBay/ChesapeakeBayTMDL.aspx DEQ Office of Water Supply Update: Virginia Water Withdrawal Reporting Regulation: DEQ appreciates the assistance of the VASWCD and Districts as we continue to register farms to report water withdrawals.