Fifteen years ago, Ottawa County leaders asked themselves, "What would happen if Ottawa County became a place known for poor water quality?" At the very first forum in 2006, leaders discussed the environmental, public health and economic impacts of water quality, plus the state of the Grand River. Keeping water quality at the forefront of leaders' minds has led to important research and critical accomplishments. Forum participants pushed for infrastructure changes to improve the health of the Grand River; they commissioned studies of E. Coli sources in rivers and beaches; they advanced bans on phosphorus fertilizers; they mobilized to prevent the dredging of the Grand River; they provided education and tools to improve the health of watersheds; and they spearheaded an ongoing study of groundwater quantity and quality. While the topics at the event have evolved over time, the significance of these forums has not changed. With its miles of rivers, streams and Lake Michigan shoreline, coupled with the rapid population growth of the area, water is pivotal to Ottawa's quality of life.
Registration is now open for the 15th Annual Ottawa County Water Quality Forum planned for November 2, held in a virtual format.
Presentation topics include:
Wastewater Testing for COVID-19 - Ottawa County Department of Public Health & Hope College
Groundwater Sustainability Updates - Ottawa County Planning and Performance Improvement and Allendale Christian School
Green Infrastructure to Improve Water Quality - The Watershed Center
Great Lakes Advisory Board - Grand Valley State University
Lake Macatawa - Grand Valley State University
Invasive Plants in Inland Lakes - Michigan Sea Grant-Michigan State University
Bio-Solids - Holland Board of Public Works
PFAS - Ottawa County Department of Public Health
Clean Marinas - Ottawa County Parks
Lakeshore Cleanup - Macatawa Area Coordinating Council and Ottawa County Parks
Space is limited to the first 300 registrants and closes on October 30. After registering, participants will receive instructions on how to join the webinar. Register now.