The Haslam administration’s swan song will aim to address Tennessee’s water needs for generations, as global leaders fear water scarcity will impact much of the world’s population.
Scientists and other environmentalists warn water scarcity is the largest global risk in terms of potential impact. Representatives from city, Hamilton County and state agencies met with private groups Tuesday morning at Chattanooga’s Eastside Utility District to discuss a new potential water plan – TN H2O – that could ensure Tennesseans have an adequate water supply for decades.
“Water is one of our most valuable resources,” Hamilton County Mayor Jim Coppinger said. “The way it serves here in Hamilton County is extremely important. It does attract people to the county because of the river and the resources we’re able to offer.”
As Gov. Bill Haslam’s term comes to an end, he asked state agency representatives what they’d like to achieve before he leaves office. They told him ensuring access to affordable water was a top priority.
Tennessee’s population is expected to double in the next 50 years. Although the state now has an abundance of water – a fact that has led to a dispute with Georgia – state leaders are concerned residents could be impacted as the world’s water supply becomes increasingly strained.