EPA ISSUES PROPOSED RULE ON METHODS FOR TESTING WATER POLLUTANTS UNDER THE CLEAN WATER ACT

By TONI ELLINGTON

On February 18, 2015, the EPA issued proposed new water pollutant analysis methods under the Clean Water Act.  The proposed rule and methods, published in the Federal Register at 80 FR 8955, would change the way regulated entities analyze the chemical, physical, and biological components of wastewater and other environmental samples.

According to the EPA, these changes would increase flexibility for regulated industries and municipalities and would improve clarity.

Section 304(h) of the Clean Water Act authorizes the EPA to promulgate guidelines to establish test procedures for the analysis of pollutants, which is required for NPDES permit applicants.  The EPA updates and revises Clean Water Act analytical methods periodically, with the last updates being done in 2012.

The deadline for public comments on the proposed rule is April 20, 2015.  For more information and updates, contact (504) 599-8500.