COM 0967.000 1996-1998 - Laserfiche WebLink

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The proposed rulemaking will examine, and possibly change, classification of designated uses of streams, rivers and other waterbodies. Designated uses determine how clean the water must be, and in turn, the levels of pollution that are allowed in each discharger's permit. Other subjects for review will include anti-degradation limits for clean waters, mixing zones, and water quality criteria. In addition, the rulemaking may develop separate wet weather standards to reflect the special conditions caused by major rainfall or storm events. EPA will sponsor three public hearings on the proposal, the first to take place on August 27 and 28 in Philadelphia, PA. Written comments will be due on January 4, 1999. Small Community and Environmental Regulations The National Association of Schools of Public Affairs and Administration (NASPAA) - the national accreditation body for university graduate programs in public service - is initiating a pilot project designed to involve small communities in developing environmental regulations that will affect them. The "Small Communities Outreach Project for Environmental Issues" (SCOPe) is being funded through a cooperative agreement with U.S. EPA. The pilot project is limited to communities in EPA's Region 4 (Southeast region of the U.S.) but may be expanded to other areas later. SCOPe's goal is to ensure that key concerns and potential areas of conflict for small communities are addresses early in the rulemaking process. Visit the SCOPe website at www.namis.org. 6