DEQ seeks comment on draft Antidegradation Analyses Tier II Alternative Analysis and Socioeconomic Justification Guide

Accepting comments from July 2, 2024, through August 1, 2024.

The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) is seeking comment on the draft Antidegradation Analyses Tier II Alternative Analysis and Socioeconomic Justification Guide.

The guide will assist DEQ staff and applicants seeking an Idaho Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (IPDES) permit or Clean Water Act Section 401 water quality certification in Tier II antidegradation review where significant degradation may occur. This analysis includes evaluating whether or not the proposed degradation of water quality can be minimized or avoided and how to determine if it is necessary and important to the social or economic health of the public.

The guide also outlines how DEQ will review Section 401 water quality certification requests, IPDES permits, and Federal Energy Regulatory Commission licenses, including evaluating the effect(s) on water quality to determine compliance with Idaho’s “Water Quality Standards” (IDAPA 58.01.02).

The draft guide is available for review at DEQ’s State Office (1410 N. Hilton Street, Boise, Idaho) and on DEQ’s Public Comment Opportunities web page. Written comments will be accepted through August 1, 2024, at 5 p.m. (MDT). Submit comments electronically via DEQ’s public comment form or by mail or email:

Tambra Phares
1410 N. Hilton St.
Boise, ID 83706
tambra.phares@deq.idaho.gov

Related Documentts

Draft Antidegradation Analyses Tier II Alternative Analysis and Socioeconomic Justification Guide