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Nebraska’s Water Quality Standards Approved

Release Date: 09/30/2010
Contact Information: Kris Lancaster, (913) 551-7557, lancaster.kris@epa.gov


Environmental News

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

(Kansas City, Kan., Sept. 30, 2010) - EPA has approved new and revised Nebraska water quality standards to support recreational activities and protect aquatic life. The state established limits for toxic algae to protect human health and limits for certain organic compounds to protect aquatic life.

“Protecting water resources is one of the most important components of a state’s water quality standards,” said Karl Brooks, regional administrator. “Working together, we will enhance and expand environmental protection for Nebraska’s lakes, rivers and streams.”

The Nebraska Department of Environmental Quality (NDEQ) submitted new and revised water quality standards to EPA for review and approval, as required by the Clean Water Act (CWA). The state reviewed scientific data and performed field studies to determine sufficient levels of protection for Nebraska’s waters.

States are required to conduct a review of their water quality standards every three years and submit new or revised standards to EPA.

EPA oversees the protection of water quality as required by the CWA. The Agency is working with the public, community leaders, local and state agencies to meet the growing needs and demands on our water resources.

EPA’s September 30, 2010, decision letter provides a more detailed description of EPA’s review, specific list of waters and the basis for this action. The decision letter is available at www.epa.gov/region7/news_events/legal.