NPDES Compliance Changes

On February 28, 2020 the US EPA published a proposed rule to extend the deadline for the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) electronic reporting rule, along with additional language clarifying existing requirements. The change seeks to provide more flexibility to comply and a streamlined process for renewals. This Rule would impact several organizations including facilities with general or individual NPDES permits and state agencies implementing NPDES programs.

AquAeTer has extensive experience providing our clients with NPDES compliance, water quality modeling and assessments, and NPDES permit preparation with a wide range of industries; from pulp and paper to industrial gases.

If you or your organization has questions about current or proposed NPDES rules or need an evaluation of your NPDES compliance, AquAeTer’s professionals are available to help and can be reached directly at 615-373-8532.

What is NPDES?

The NPDES permit program was authorized by the Clean Water Act (CWA) and addresses water pollution by regulating point sources that discharge pollutants to waters of the United States.

Who needs an NPDES permit?

If you or your company have a discharge from a point source into the waters of the United States, you need an NPDES permit.

What is Waters of the United States?

The term water of the United States has been in the news a lot lately and it may not be clear to you or your organization whether this term applies to you. Very broadly, waters of the US include:

• Navigable waters,
• Tributaries to navigable waters,
• Interstate waters,
• The oceans out to 200 miles, and
• Intrastate waters

For more clarification on whether you discharge to a waters of the US, contact AquAeTer at 615-373-8532.