Members of Logan Martin Lake Protection Association’s (LMLPA) water management committee traveled to Montgomery to talk with Gov. Robert Bentley about the development of a water management plan for Alabama.

As water resources become increasingly limited, Alabama is in the process of creating policies for water management.  Gov. Bentley hopes to have a framework for a plan in place by Dec.2013.

Earlier this year Gov. Bentley requested agencies across the state that have an interest in water management and water protection to provide input on the matter.

“I appreciate members of the Logan Martin Lake Protection Association coming to Montgomery to discuss the water issues on Lake Logan Martin with me,” Gov. Bentley said.  “Their input on Alabama’s water policy is critical because they live in an area that is dependent on the resources of the lake. We will consider all input and work to make responsible decisions for Alabama’s long-term water needs.”

In October LMLPA drafted a letter to the governor’s office outlining their concerns.

“We want to play a key role in developing water management policies that not only protect Logan Martin but are also in the best interest of the whole state,” LMLPA president Mike Riley said.

LMPLA wants to ensure historic flow of the water remains at a constant level, inter-basin transfers are controlled and that water is conserved and re-used.

“Alabama waterways are very important to us as an economic engine and important to our lifestyle,” Riverside Mayor Rusty Jessup said.  “We want to do everything we can to help our governor protect this valuable natural resource.”

LMLPA member Randy Smith told the governor that the organization fully supports his efforts to put a water management plan in place.

Surrounding states like Georgia, Florida and Mississippi already have water management plans in place to regulate water policy.  But the state of Alabama does not.