FOR
IMMEDIATE RELEASE: September 30, 2002
DEP Supports Wastewater Treatment Partnership
PENSACOLA -- The Department of Environmental Protection applauds today's vote by the Es-cambia County Utilities Authority that furthers the public/private partnership between the utility and International Paper. The environmental and economic benefits to Perdido Bay and the community represent a significant step forward for the community.
The action taken today by ECUA furthers the ultimate goal of eliminating direct surface water discharges from IP's Cantonment paper mill into the Perdido River. The strategy will also make the mill more efficient in the global pulp and paper mill market. Lt. Governor Frank Brogan first announced the plan in May 2001.
"This is a remarkable tribute to what can be achieved with a collaborative approach to environ-mental problem solving," said Brogan.
"This agreement is a model that all states can follow," said Department of Environmental
Protection Secretary David B. Struhs. "Everyone is a winner, from the environmental community to the business community. Any partnership that protects the environment and jobs at the same time is successful in everyone's eyes."
The project includes the reuse of reclaimed water for industrial process water and the restoration and enhancement of 2,000 acres of wetlands, which provides wastewater treatment and creates additional habitat for wildlife.
State grants and loans are projected to fund the majority of the project components. The
Department will continue to work with ECUA on financial assistance.
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Press Office
