The Geosynthetic Materials Association’s (GMA) Environmental Focus Group was formed to provide a forum and the opportunity to have constructive conversations about how the industry can work together on the perception of the industry and its products. Its most recent effort is the newly established Water Management Task Group. This notice is to make you aware of our efforts and to invite you to participate in the first full meeting, scheduled for April 29, 2003, Atlanta, GA.
The main purpose of the Water Management Task Group will be to:
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Focus on education of federal government agencies, state and local government water authorities, commercial and agricultural end-users by explaining (or demonstrating) the economical/technical benefits of using geosynthetic products in water conveyance and storage systems along with the traditional use of these products for ground water protection.
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Develop a strategy for influencing the permitting process to include and encourage the use of geosynthetic products in regulated areas such as NPDES (National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System) Phase II, SPCC (Spill Prevention Control and Countermeasure), etc. [BMP’s].
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Identify key water quality decision makers (design engineers/firms, regulators, educators, end-users, etc.) that have an indirect or direct impact on the use of geosynthetic products.
It is important to note that this task group is a marketing effort and not a technical endeavor. GMA’s role is to provide an industry-backed marketing/educational effort. To establish industry status and to define market opportunities, the agenda will allow participating manufacturers to give a five-minute overview about its company’s products used in water management. Presenters will also be asked to discuss the obstacles of getting into the market.
The industry needs committed leadership to provide direction and make a difference. Please consider attending the first GMA Water Management Task Group Meeting, in the Conference Center of the Hartsfield International Airport, Atlanta, GA. The meeting will start at 11:10 a.m. and will end at 4:00 p.m. The conference center is located in the main atrium and is accessible by travelers and non-travelers. There will be a working lunch. If you are interested in attending the meeting and/or presenting please contact Danette Halloran at 800-636-5042, 651-225-6942 or e-mail dfhalloran@ifai.com.
