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DNR Moves Forward on Stream Assessments, Meets with Cities and Industries Statewide
DES MOINES — An upcoming series of meetings will focus on DNR stream assessments and the effects they will have on cities and businesses discharging treated wastewater to Iowa streams. The six meetings across the state provide an important dialogue with communities on how Iowa will implement significant changes to stream classifications in the state’s water quality standards. The DNR made the changes in 2006 to meet requirements of the federal Clean Water Act. The meetings are listed alphabetically below: Atlantic:
Clear Lake:
Des Moines:
Independence:
Spencer:
Washington:
The changes in 2006 created a presumption that all streams deserve the highest classification and the highest level of protection. Since then, the DNR has conducted stream assessments in groups to determine what stream classification is most appropriate for those streams. These stream studies can change the level of protection on some streams, which will affect how some cities and industries will need to treat effluent being released to Iowa streams. The DNR held similar rounds of meetings in 2007 and 2009. In the meetings, the DNR will address concerns of cities and businesses that may face stricter permit requirements when new water quality standards go into effect. The meetings will include a short presentation, a general question and answer session, and one-on-one consultations with representatives of industries and municipalities. Some facilities may need to make minor to major upgrades on their facilities in coming years to meet new permit limits. These new permits will further limit the amount of pollutants entering Iowa’s streams and rivers. For more information on water quality standards, visit the DNR’s Web site at
www.iowadnr.gov/water/standards/.
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