Re-Classification Initiative, Maine Waters
Important Note added 10/2/2008: The comment period has been extended in part.
Comments on the proposed reclassification of a portion of the Crooked River at Scribner's Mill in Harrison and Otisfield may be submitted in writing until Wednesday, October 15, 2008 at 5:00 PM.
See extension notice (pdf).
Contact
Introduction
The Department and the Board of Environmental Protection (BEP) are required to periodically conduct classification studies and consult with the public and interested state and federal agencies for the purpose of reviewing the appropriateness of assigned water quality classifications and proposing changes in water classification for Maine waterbodies. The last Re-Classification initiative was completed in 2005. The review of water quality classifications takes place every 3-6 years and considers rivers, streams and coastal waters throughout the State. Maine lakes are all assigned to one management class, GPA, and so are not subject to reclassification at this time. The DEP will consider public input as it develops recommendations for changes in classification to the BEP. The BEP will hold a formal public hearing on the draft package during late summer and compile final recommendations for submission to the 123 rd Legislature (Session opening January 2009) . The Maine State Legislature authorizes all classification changes and, prior to becoming law, the U. S. Environmental Protection Agency must approve any water quality standards changes that are made by the State of Maine.
Maine 's Water Classification law is designed to protect, maintain and restore water quality. The law directs the implementation of water management actions for a water body or segment of a water body based on Maine 's tiered classifications (Riverine Class AA, A, B and C and Marine Class SA, SB and SC). All water quality classifications for Maine waterbodies are designed to attain the Interim Goals of the U.S. Clean Water Act or higher. Appendix A provides a summary of the uses and criteria that apply to each waterbody type and water quality classification. More information.
Proposal
Hearing; how to comment
At the public hearing the Board will receive testimony from interested persons and the general public on a number of specific proposals made by Department staff for changes in the water quality classification of certain waterbodies. The public may also offer other reclassification proposals for consideration, and comment on the adequacy of the State's water quality standards and water quality goals.
The public hearing will be held at the Holiday Inn Ground Round Restaurant at 110 Community Drive in Augusta , Maine on Thursday, September 18, 2008 beginning at 1:00 PM. Comments on this matter may be submitted orally to the Board at the hearing or in writing until the close of the public comment period on Thursday, October 2, 2008 at 5:00 PM. Written comments on proposed reclassifications, water quality standards, and water quality goals may be mailed to: Department of Environmental Protection, Attn: Susan Davies, 17 State House Station, Augusta , Maine 04333-0017 or by email at susan.p.davies@maine.gov
See below concerning extension to comment period.
Schedule
|
Fall 2007-Winter 2008
|
Receive re-classification proposals; Prepare MDEP draft re-classification package
|
Stakeholder group meetings as needed |
April-June 2008 |
Public review of proposed changes at Public Meetings around Maine (2 - Lewiston and Presque Isle) |
Summer 2008 |
Board of Environmental Protection (BEP) Public Hearings (2) |
| September 18, 2008 beginning at 1:30 PM |
Hearing |
Early October |
BEP final vote on Re-Classification proposal |
Late October 2008 |
Submit statutory changes for Legislative approval |
2009 |
Legislative vote on Re-Classification bill |
Supplementary materials
Prior documents
Submission guidelines.
