Excerpt from the executive summary:

When a resource is as basic as clean water, it can be easy to take for granted. Flowing in and out of our homes and businesses through underground pipes, clean water for sanitation keeps our communities livable, our lifestyles possible, and our industries viable. But while steady access to clean water is a cornerstone of modern society, its future is far from secure.

As recent tragedies have shown, the United States’ national infrastructure is experiencing the consequences of decades of neglect. Our water systems, many of which are more than 100 years old, are no exception.

Fiscal 2007 saw the Clean Water State Revolving Fund funded at some of the lowest levels in history, and for 2008 the president has requested states be given a mere $688 million – the lowest levels since the program’s inception.

Clear Waters: Why America Needs a Clean Water Trust Fund will examine trends in clean water spending on a state-by-state level, pointing out the need for urgent action while explaining the benefits that could be achieved through the establishment of a clean water trust fund.