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region, we will assess and evaluate the quality of the region's water resources and work to <br /> maintain and improve these resources. <br /> Some parts of the region expect to continue relying on groundwater as the main source of <br /> supply to meet future growth, while other areas lack ready access to productive aquifers to meet <br /> their water supply needs. Still others face the challenge of reconciling competing demands <br /> between using groundwater to supply their communities and protecting surface waters that rely <br /> on groundwater to maintain their integrity. Other concerns include aquifer contamination and the <br /> inevitability of occasional droughts. The region needs to evaluate all available water supply <br /> sources and, if feasible, minimize roadblocks to their use. <br /> The Council plays a role in monitoring and assessing our surface water resources as well. In <br /> the metro area, the Council plays a huge role in collecting water quality and flow data needed to <br /> assess the condition of these valued resources in order to measure success in meeting our goal <br /> of water sustainability. The Council works closely with state agencies, communities, and <br /> watershed organizations in the metro area to fill gaps in monitoring and assessments needed <br /> related to the condition of our area lakes, rivers and streams. For example, in partnership with <br /> others the Council monitors and assesses the condition of around 200 lakes a year, 21 stream <br /> sites, and 22 river sites. <br /> Achieving the goal of water sustainability in the region will require partnerships and actions from <br /> the many entities involved in water management, water supply and use, and implementation <br /> today. The Council is committed to providing monitoring and assessment information and other <br /> technical assistance. The Council is also committed to providing leadership in discussions, <br /> decisions and implementation actions needed for sustainable water. Together, we can build on <br /> the successes of the region to achieve our water sustainability goal. <br /> Policy on Assessing and Protecting Regional Water Resources: <br /> The Council will continue to assess the condition of the region's lakes, rivers, streams, and <br /> aquifers to evaluate impacts on regional water resources and measure success in achieving <br /> regional water goals. <br /> 23 <br />