Environmental Protection Agency April 3, 2014 – Federal Register Recent Federal Regulation Documents

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 10 proposes to reissue a National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) General Permit for Groundwater Remediation Discharge Facilities in Idaho (GWGP). As proposed, the GWGP authorizes the discharge of groundwater from remediation sites to Waters of the U.S. within the State of Idaho from both facilities with existing coverage and new facilities interested in seeking coverage. The draft GWGP contains technology-based and water quality-based effluent limitations for conventional and toxic water quality pollutants, along with administrative reporting and monitoring requirements, as well as standard conditions, prohibitions, and management practices. A fact sheet is available that explains the draft GWGP in detail. Section 401 of the Clean Water Act, 33 U.S.C. 1341, requires EPA to seek a certification from the State of Idaho that the conditions of the GWGP are stringent enough to comply with State water quality standards. The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (IDEQ) has provided a draft certification that the draft GWGP complies with State of Idaho Water Quality Standards (IDAPA 58.01.02), including the State's antidegradation policy. EPA intends to seek a final certification from IDEQ prior to issuing the final GWGP. This is also notice of the draft Sec. 401 certification provided by IDEQ. Persons wishing to comment on the draft State certification should send written comments to Ms. Miranda Adams; Idaho Department of Environmental Quality, State Office, Surface Water Program; 1410 North Hilton Street; Boise, Idaho 83706 or via email to Miranda.Adams@deq.idaho.gov