4221 



b.) Our Regional Planning Council, in order to satisfy federal criteria, 



has let a contract for Phase I of a two-phase engineering study. Studies 

 such as these only review existing data (which is sparce and in some 

 needed areas non-existent) and require some field sampling. Studies of 

 this kind do not generate new data. We suggest that means must be found 

 to establish adequate long range data gathering programs which will 

 assure adequate data for sound decision making and provide adequate sur- 

 veillance. Perhaps federal agencies are best equipped to do this. As 

 Hayes and Herring have pointed out (Ref. 10), "Before these man-made 

 problems (pollution) can be reduced or eliminated, we must first apprise 

 the characteristics of the watershed that determine man's use of the 

 area, 



13. Information is not freely exchanged, 



a.) In the comprehensive report of the National Academy of Sciences (Ref. 8) 

 we read on page 18, "Expert knowledge of pollution to be found in uni- 

 versities, major government agencies, and the headquarters staff of large 

 corporations often does not filter through to smaller agencies and to the 

 field structure, and not infrequently is treated as privileged informa- 

 tion because of its possible impact on the public. 



b.) The matter of availability of information has been an issue locally. 



(See Exhibit 9) We believe the public has a right to know and a genuine 

 desire to rectify pollution problems inasmuch as they effect the health 

 and well-being of all. 



The conference no doubt finds that problems on waters tributary to Puget Sound 

 need to be viewed in light of facts such as these. Perhaps Whatcom County is 

 atypical. We think, however, it is not. 



Minimal action or total inaction on the part of local governments have created 

 a need for state and federal controls and standards. We recognize the need for 

 standards and policies for quality enhancement and are pleased that visionary re- 

 quirements are being developed (Ref. 11). 



The final point which we present to the conference is very relevant to the 

 development policies or criteria for support of improvement projects. Situations 

 such as we describe can very easily and quickly lead to an erosion of respect for 

 state or federal requirements and authority. If we are to have them, they must 

 be meaningful and enforceable. The situation in our area is this: 



1.) In spite of all the lip-service which has been given in various offi- 

 cial circles over the years to the need for attention to the purity of 

 the source of Whatcom Creek (Lake Whatcom). 



2.) In spite of developing state and federal concerns for long-range plan- 

 ning. 



