Code of Maine Rules
06 - DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION
096 - DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION - GENERAL
Chapter 587 - IN-STREAM FLOWS AND LAKE AND POND WATER LEVELS
Section 096-587-11 - Watersheds most at risk from cumulative water use
Current through 2024-38, September 18, 2024
Waters which do not meet one or more water quality standard due, in whole or in part, to the impact of water withdrawals are determined to be most at risk from cumulative water use. Additionally, the following waters identified in paragraphs A, B, and C below are determined to be most at risk.
A. Class AA river or stream watersheds most at risk from cumulative water use. Watersheds which have direct withdrawal capacity that collectively amounts to 10% or more of any seasonal median flow for the season that withdrawal is intended.
B. Class A, B, or C river or stream watersheds most at risk from cumulative water use. Watersheds which have direct withdrawal capacity that collectively amounts to 50% or more of any seasonal median flow that withdrawal is intended.
C. Class GPA waters most at risk from cumulative water use.Waters which have direct withdrawal capacity that collectively amounts to 80% or more of the available water for any defined period as provided by the standard allowable alteration.
D. This definition does not constitute a regulatory standard and is not intended as such. It is only intended to identify watersheds that are most at risk from cumulative water use for the purpose of directing future efforts to address water use planning.