DEP Soliciting Information For Use In The Development Of The Next Triennial Review Of Water Quality Standards; Including Specifically For Copper

The Department of Environmental Protection published an Advanced Notice of Proposed Rulemaking in the December 27 PA Bulletin soliciting information from the public related to the preparation of the next Triennial Review of Water Quality Standards.

The federal Clean Water Act requires states to periodically, but at least once every 3 years, review and revise as necessary their water quality standards.

The Department is seeking scientific, economic and other relevant information to support the development of proposed regulations consistent with its duties under the state Clean Streams Law and the federal Clean Water Act.

Specific Information Requested

DEP is requesting specific information on these issues-

-- Reexamination Of Waterbodies With Water Quality Standards Inconsistent With Federal Clean Water Act Designated Uses -- Delaware Estuary and recreation in the Outer Erie Harbor and Presque Isle Bay

-- Human Health Recreational Water Quality Criteria or Swimming Advisories for Microcystins and Cylindrospermopsin

-- Aquatic Life Water Quality Criteria for Copper - 889 NPDES permit holders presenting have requirements covering copper.

Data and information should be submitted to DEP by February 9.

Read the entire PA Bulletin notice for more background and instructions on submitting information.

For more information on environmental programs in Pennsylvania, visit DEP’s website.  Submit Environmental Complaints; Click Here to sign up for DEP’s newsletter; sign up for DEP’s eNotice; Like DEP on Facebook, Follow DEP on Twitter and visit DEP’s YouTube Channel.

(Map: DEP Water Quality Monitoring Network.)

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[Posted: December 26, 2025]  PA Environment Digest