FALLS CHURCH, VA.-The Irrigation Association applauds the U.S. House of Representatives for passing H.R. 1145, the "National Water Research and Development Act of 2009."
The legislation, sponsored by Rep. Bart Gordon (D-TN), is designed to improve the federal government's role in implementing federal water research, development, demonstration, data collection and dissemination to address changes in U.S. water use, supply and demand. This initiative will be administered by establishing an interagency committee that will be led by the U.S. Department of Commerce National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
"The Irrigation Association welcomes the continued dialogue surrounding water use, supply and demand and how water-use efficiency can play a key role in our nation's water management debate," said IA Federal Affairs Director John Farner.
"This legislation is a definite step in the right direction in coordinating our federal resources to ensure our nation addresses water research in a responsible manner."
The bill now moves to the U.S. Senate where it must be debated and passed before moving to the White House for the President's signature. The Irrigation Association will continue to monitor the legislation and promote research benefiting irrigation efficiency.
The Irrigation Association is the leading membership organization for irrigation equipment and system manufacturers, dealers, distributors, designers, consultants, contractors and end users.
Originally founded in 1949, IA includes over 2,000 corporate and technical members and is dedicated to promoting efficient irrigation.
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