Target: Sarah J, Ryker, Acting Director of U.S. Geological Service
Goal: Do not close science centers responsible for monitoring and protecting water supply.
On the heels of dismissing a large portion of workers at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) devoted to climate preparedness, the Trump administration has taken another hatchet to communities’ abilities to prepare for ecological emergencies. Twenty-five water service centers run by the U.S. Geological Service were recently put in the crosshairs for closure. The centers are seemingly being closed merely due to lease expirations rather than the closures being driven by thoughtful insight into the impacts.
And these impacts will be plentiful. For one, the centers routinely monitor water levels and the impacts of flooding and drought. Response plans – including getting water to communities that are running out – are crafted and implemented from this data. The monitoring also serves as a warning system for potential floods. In addition, these centers evaluate the quality of water and can detect concerning levels of toxins like forever chemicals.
Multiple states – many of which have already been devastated by water-related crises – will be affected by the closures. Sign the petition below to demand a reversal of this incredibly destructive policy.
PETITION LETTER:
Dear Director Ryker,
Communities ravaged by Hurricane Helene’s deadly flooding; communities under severe drought conditions, communities from Alaska to North Carolina to Utah to Massachusetts: these represent just some of the places set to lose a crucial tool for disaster prevention and mitigation as well as water quality control. The arbitrary closure of 25 water science centers run by this agency would be a devastating blow to people and environments from coast to coast. Does the agency even have a plan to fill the massive gaps in assistive services that will result from this decision?
Keep these centers open and operational for the sake of all life that depends on this most vital resource.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo Credit: Hitesh Choudhary
