IPMnet is accessible via the Internet 24 hours a day. Newsletters, information exchanges, technical reports and databases of information on research, teaching, implementation and policy initiatives on IPM are encouraged on the IPMnet. First time users are asked to complete a questionnaire detailing their interests and experiences. A recent proposal by President Clinton includes runoff from agricultural production and other sources of unregulated pollution in revisions of the Clean Water Act. In addition, the proposal allows for tougher enforcement of local water treatment programs and pollution laws.
Proponents argue that tight controls are already in place over industrial discharges.
The pollution problem now lies with runoff from agriculture, lawns, streets and storm drains, they maintain. Provisions for state watershed management initiatives would then include regulating manure handling and lawn care chemicals. Environmentalists are reportedly pleased with the Clinton proposal but said they would work to strengthen it. Property rights advocates warned that their interests would play a major role in any revisions of the Clean Water Act. A recent study by two botanists with the Missouri Botanical Gardens showed that trees are dying and being replaced at a more rapid rate than previously thought.