FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Sheryl Shipley, Member Service Manager
Phone: 970-879-3010 ext. 21, email: sheryl@ieca.org
Web Site: www.ieca.org

IECA Membership Elevates the Erosion and Sediment Control Profession

     According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's 2003 Enforcement and Compliance Assurance Results, environmental benefits have increased an estimated 131 percent over FY 2002. However, this progress has come at a steep price to industry, which has paid almost $2.9 billion in enforcement settlements. Ben Northcutt, Executive Director of the International Erosion Control Association (IECA), says environmental fines, especially those associated with muddy water, can be avoided. "If you have a thorough knowledge of the regulations, if you understand the technology that helps achieve compliance and if you know where to find relevant expertise, then you can greatly reduce your chances of being fined." 
     How do professionals find the expertise needed to keep up with a rapidly changing industry? IECA membership is the answer. IECA's goal is to be the global resource for erosion and sediment control professionals. "IECA's members have the answers you need to stay in compliance," says Northcutt. "From the perspective of soil erosion and compliance with NPDES Phase II and other regulations, the knowledge our members possess can literally save you thousands of dollars in potential environmental fines. In addition, you can realize other economic benefits by becoming part of IECA's member network. You can learn about better practices, newer technology, labor-saving equipment and effective strategies. We offer incredible opportunities that can help you become a smarter manager of soil and water resources."
     IECA's strength as an association is connecting professionals in a variety of ways to answers and solutions to any erosion and sediment control question or problem. IECA's showcase event is the annual conference that takes place every year in February, which features quality education, workshops, technical papers, forums, field tours and the world's largest expo of erosion and sediment control products and services. And if you can't come to the conference, IECA has Digital Education and books that bring the training directly home to you. Our members belong to various listserves and special interest communities where professionals can dialogue on topics and learn from each other. IECA's web site is a complete 24-hour information source, with articles of interest, a member search feature, web-based forums and the latest details on association events and offerings. IECA can develop tailored training courses for companies using our high caliber IECA-appro ved pool of instructors. Our network of global Chapters delivers education and networking opportunities to specific geographic areas. Membership is the gateway to becoming a more knowledgeable erosion and sediment control professional and a means to elevate a vital profession.
     IECA is offering a discount on membership dues for new members that join before June 30, 2004 as part of the association's annual Strength in Numbers Membership Drive. As IECA's membership grows, so do the resources available to professionals in the industry. Growth means a stronger voice for the profession to government leaders and others who can influence change. A larger IECA member base also means greater overall beneficial impacts to the environment. 
     IECA offers 7 different membership levels ranging in price from the $45 Student Membership to the $2500 Cornerstone Membership. The most popular level is the Professional Membership for $145, which includes a subscription to Erosion Control Journal. "We offer a variety of membership packages in an effort to accommodate diverse needs and budgets. We realize that for many people, erosion control is only a part of their jobs. For this reason, we have an E-Member level for only $85 that provides access to a world of information for a cost-effective price. Others may want more exposure for their company, so that is why we have high level categories that offer marketing and advertising benefits," says Sheryl Shipley, IECA's Member Service Manager. Depending on the level of membership chosen, members can save $10-$20 on dues if they join before June 30, 2004. 
     For complete details about joining IECA, please visit IECA's web site at www.ieca.org, call 1-800-455-4322 or 1-970-879-3010 or send an email to ecinfo@ieca.org.
     Founded in 1972, IECA is a non-profit professional member organization with 2,800 members in 52 countries that connects, educates and develops the worldwide erosion and sediment control community.

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