Ecology is seeking preliminary feedback on five individual discharger variances to the water quality standards that meet the requirements of WAC 173-201A-420, for polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) for the Spokane River. Our preliminary draft rule includes amendments to WAC 173-201A-420 (Variance), and new sections in chapter 173-201A WAC to include the proposed variances.

A “variance” is a tool available under the Clean Water Act that provides a pathway for dischargers to make progress toward meeting Washington State’s Surface Water Quality Standards using the most current available technologies and control measures. For more information, see our variance rulemaking webpage.

We are accepting informal comments on the preliminary draft rule and supporting documents from June 10 to July 25, 2020. While your feedback will help us develop rule language and supporting documents, we will not formally respond to comments received.

Learn more about the preliminary draft rule:

• Read the preliminary draft rule language.
• Read the preliminary draft supporting rule documents, including sections of the preliminary draft Environmental Impact Statement, preliminary draft Rule Implementation Plan, and preliminary draft State Technical Support Document, available on our web page.

How can I comment?

• You can submit comments online until 11:59 p.m. on July 25, 2020
• By mail (must be postmarked by July 25, 2020):
  • Marla Koberstein
    WA Department of Ecology
    Preliminary Draft Variance Comments
    P.O. Box 47696
    Olympia, WA 98504-7696

More information on this rulemaking

• Browse the variance rulemaking webpage.
• Join our listserv to receive news and information about this rulemaking and other water quality topics.

Questions?

Marla Koberstein
Rule coordinator
email: swqs@ecy.wa.gov
Phone: 360-628-6376