DNR SEEKS COMMENTS, The public comment period runs from Mar. 4 to Apr. 30, 2019.

DNR seeks comments on revised surface water bacteria criteria to protect recreation

The public comment period runs from Mar. 4 to Apr. 30, 2019.

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources is proposing revisions to water quality criteria for pathogens (specifically, bacteria) to protect recreation in lakes, rivers, and streams.  This revision follows EPA recommendations to change from the current state criterion based on fecal coliform to one based on E. coli, as E. coli is a better indicator of the risk of gastrointestinal illness.  The rule revisions will change certain permit requirements for sewage treatment facilities accordingly, but is expected to have a minimal economic impact.  The public comment period for this rule will be from March 4 through April 30, 2019.  Two public hearings will be held during this period:

• Thursday, April 18, 2:00, room G27, Madison Dept. of Natural Resources Bldg., 101 S. Webster St., Madison, WI
• Tuesday, April 23, 1:00, Eau Claire Dept. of Natural Resources Bldg., 1300 W. Clairemont, Eau Claire, WI

Materials for review may be found on the DNR’s website at https://dnr.wi.gov/news/input/ProposedPermanent.html, under rule number WY-17-15.

Comments can be submitted to:  DNRAdministrativeRuleComments@wisconsin.gov.

This notification is being distributed to those sewage treatment facilities that may be affected, the department’s distribution list for impaired waters and water quality standards, the WPDES permit notification list, and other entities that may be interested in the proposed rules.