Triennial Review – Water Quality

DWQ is required to review Utah’s Water Quality Standards at least once every three years. This process, called the Triennial Review, is required by Section 303(c) of the Clean Water Act. In addition to an internal review by DWQ, the review must include the EPA and public. The review is intended to provide an opportunity to update the Standards to include new information and EPA rules and guidance.

DWQ solicits input from the public, regulated community, and EPA regarding what Standards revisions or additions should be considered for the triennial review. DWQ, in consultation with the Water Quality Standards Workgroup, prioritizes the topics for review because the number of topics to review typically exceeds the time and resources available. Any revisions to the standards must be adopted by the Water Quality Board and approved by EPA as part of the rulemaking process. The rulemaking process includes additional opportunities for public comment.

Topics are prioritized considering the following factors: environmental benefit, administrative benefit, technical complexity, available resources, federal mandates, and perceived need for change in standards, guidance, rule, or process.

Standards changes are not limited to the Triennial Review and suggested changes can be submitted at any time. Time-critical changes to the Standards can be made outside the triennial review process if resources are available. Recommendations must be made in writing and should include the proposed revision and rationale for the change. Recommendations should be sent to:

Jake Vander Laan (jvander@utah.gov)
Utah Division of Water Quality
P.O. Box 144870
Salt Lake City, UT 84114-4870

Questions

Jake Vander Laan (jvander@utah.gov), (801) 536-4350.