World Water Day - 2018

By Mr. Jordan Gillis, Acting Assistant Secretary of the Army (IE&E)March 12, 2018

World Water Day
(Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL

PENTAGON - On World Water Day, 22 March 2018, we recognize water as a fundamental element to the readiness and resilience of our Army. Soldiers, Civilians, Families, and their communities rely on water to accomplish their missions and carry out their daily lives.

This year's theme of "Nature for Water" provides an opportunity to highlight the great efforts made by Army installation across the U.S. to support and protect Army missions through responsible management of natural water. "Nature for Water'' focuses on using natural systems to address local and regional water challenges through green infrastructure, such as bioswales and green roofs.

The Army's natural water systems are integral tools to improve water quality and increase water security. As a result, several Army Installations use green infrastructure to reap the benefits of available natural water.

Tobyhanna Army Depot, Pennsylvania, has installed over 108,000 square feet of green roofs, reducing water runoff, increasing energy efficiency, and extending overall roof life.

Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington, enjoys the benefits of installed rain gardens, reducing standing water and filtering storm water. Fort Belvoir, Virginia, maintains several

bioswales that recharge groundwater, provide habitat to wildlife, and improve water quality.

As the Army moves forward, we will continue to recognize the importance of natural water systems to overall water security and resilience. Further information on individual installations natural water efforts are displayed in our World Water Day 2018 poster.

Jordan Gillis

Acting Assistant Secretary of the Army

(Installations, Energy and Environment)

Related Documents:

World Water Day Signed Letter [PDF]

Related Links:

Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Army (Environment, Safety and Occupational Health)

Assistant Secretary of the Army (Installations, Energy and Environment)