EPA Schedules Public Meetings on Florida Water Quality Standards

EPA is proposing numeric nutrient water quality criteria to protect aquatic life in lakes and flowing waters, including canals, within the State of Florida and proposing regulations to establish a framework for Florida to develop "restoration standards" for impaired waters. EPA is issuing this proposed rule pursuant to a determination that EPA made on Jan. 14, 2009, under section 303(c)(4)(B) of the Clean Water Act. The determination states that numeric nutrient water quality criteria for lakes and flowing waters and for estuaries and coastal waters are necessary for the State of Florida to meet the requirements of Clean Water Act section 303(c). EPA intends to sign the proposed rule addressing lakes and flowing waters on January 14, 2010, per the terms of a consent decree. EPA is holding three public hearings in Florida during the public comment period for the proposed rule. The public comment period will begin on the day the proposed rule is published in the Federal Register, and will last for 60 days.
Feb. 16, 2010: 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. at the Holiday Inn Capitol East, 1355 Apalachee Parkway, Tallahassee, FL 32301
Feb. 17, 2010: 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. to 10 p.m., Crowne Plaza Orlando Universal, 7800 Universal Boulevard, Orlando, FL 32819
Feb. 18, 2010: 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. at the Holiday Inn Palm Beach Airport, 1301 Belvedere Rd., West Palm Beach, FL 33405