The DNR will hold a public hearing on April 7 on the renewal of a general permit for operators of mining and processing facilities that discharge wastewater.
The public hearing will begin at 11 a.m. in the fourth floor conference rooms of the Wallace State Office Building, 502 E. Ninth St., Des Moines.
The DNR has initiated rulemaking to renew the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) wastewater permit known as General Permit Number 5 (GP5). This permit was first issued in 2001; the current version expires July 19, 2016.
The draft permit is substantially similar to the current permit. There are several minor revisions such as added definitions and allowing for electronic reporting. The DNR will present the proposed changes and take comments orally or in writing at the public hearing.
More information can be found on the DNR’s website at: https://www.iowadnr.gov/Environmental-Protection/Water-Quality/NPDES-Wastewater-Permitting/NPDES-General-Permits/GP5-Mining-Processing
People may also file written comments on the proposed rulemaking on or before midnight on April 14, 2016. Comments will also be taken during the stakeholder meeting. Written comments or questions regarding the proposed rulemaking should be directed to Julie Faas, Iowa Department of Natural Resources, NPDES Section, 502 E. Ninth St., Des Moines, Iowa 50309-0034; via fax at 515-725-8202; or via email at julie.faas@dnr.iowa.gov.