January 31, 2011
Event Program 2:00 - 5:00pm

 Key Note Speaker ~ to be announced

Protecting Idaho's Clean Waters - The Antidegradation Debate Panel  

Idaho is embroiled in a hot debate over the Clean Water Act's policy intended to protect high quality waters.  The awkwardly named "Antidegradation Policy" requires states to adopt policies and procedures to control human activities that could degrade streams and lakes that are relatively free from pollution.  Idaho's Department of Environmental Quality recently adopted new rules to carry out the Antidegradation Policy, which will become effective if approved by the Legislature.  Clean water advocates charge that the rules do not go far enough, leaving a major loophole in Idaho's protections for water quality.  Business interests fear adverse impacts from the new rules.  With a lawsuit pending in federal court, the stakes in this debate are high.

Director's Panel  

State agency directors are often at the intersection of key public issues playing out in one corner or another of Idaho, whether it is water allocation on the Eastern Snake River Plain, protection of Idaho's lands and waters from invasive species, or managing vast tracts of north Idaho forests.  Directors work with Idaho Legislature and the annual budget setting process and manage offices spread across the Gem State.  We will hear from a number of directors with their perspective on key issues their agencies are dealing with in 2011.

Event Reception 5:00 - 7:00 pm
Appetizers and cocktails complimentary for all event participants

Event Costs:  $15 for IEF sponsors
                                 $20 for non-sponsors