DES MOINES – The DNR is holding public hearings across the state this November to gather input on proposed updates to surface water quality standards for copper.
The changes in this proposed rule will create additional flexibility for wastewater dischargers by adding the option to use the Biotic Ligand Model to determine water quality criteria for copper or to use the Water-Effect Ratio (WER) to adjust the existing water quality criteria for copper. This will allow for more appropriate water quality criteria for copper for the receiving water body.
To view documents associated with this rule making, please refer to the links posted at the top of the water quality standards web page at https://www.iowadnr.gov/Environmental-Protection/Water-Quality/Water-Quality-Standards
The DNR will host three public hearings throughout Iowa to hear comments on this rule proposal. Any interested person is welcome to attend. Meetings will be held as follows, listed by town:
Washington: Nov. 1, 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., Nicola-Stoufer Room, Washington Public Library, 115 West Washington St.
Urbandale: Nov. 2, 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., Meeting Room B, Urbandale Public Library, 3520 86th St.
Storm Lake: Nov. 3, 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., Council Chambers, City Hall, 620 Erie St.
People may make oral or written comments at any of the public hearings. Written comments will also be accepted through Nov. 4. Send written comments to: Connie Dou, Iowa Department of Natural Resources, 502 E. Ninth St., Des Moines, IA 50319-0034; or by e-mail to connie.dou@dnr.iowa.gov.