EPA proposes water-quality standards for Florida

EPA will hold 3 public hearings in Florida in April to
receive more public input on its proposed water
quality standards for the state.

EPA has proposed numeric nutrient water quality standards for lakes and flowing waters, including canals within Florida. The federal agency has proposed regulations to establish a framework for the state to develop “restoration standards” for impaired waters.
EPA issued the proposed rule under section 303(c)(4)(B) of the Clean Water Act. The determination states that numeric nutrient water quality standards for lakes and flowing waters and for estuaries and coastal waters are necessary for Florida to meet the requirements of Clean Water Act section 303(c).
EPA signed the proposed rule addressing lakes and flowing waters on Jan. 14, 2010. The proposed rule was published in the Federal Register on Jan. 26. The agency held public hearings in Florida in February and is planning to hold 3 additional public hearings in April to receive more input from Floridians on the proposed standards.EPA has extended the public comment period for the proposed rule to April 28, 2010.