As an environmental health scientist and UW alumnus, I was encouraged to read the insightful articles regarding why public health practitioners should care about environmental issues [Fall/Winter 2001]. Recent events in the world, especially as they relate to environmental and public health (e.g., global warming, bioterrorism), highlight the importance of working together toward a common goal—:protect the health of our public.

Recent events also point to the need to leverage available resources. For the people of Colorado, my job is made more manageable by the fact that environmental and public health responsibilities lie within one agency and that the Colorado Turning Point, another tool in identifying critically-needed solutions, resides here. However, other agencies are often not so fortunate. Because there is this disconnect, it's absolutely critical that practitioners of both fields not only work together but also plan together. Lessons learned from numerous Departmental projects, whether it be improving water quality, investigating asthma, or eliminating air toxics, have taught us the importance of not going the road alone.

Mark McMillan, Environmental Health Scientist
Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment