Water Quality

DEQ’s antidegradation policy (OAR 340-041-0004) is designed to protect water from further degradation from new or increased sources of pollution and protects, maintains, and enhances surface water quality to protect existing beneficial uses. Details on how DEQ implements the policy is included in the Antidegradation Policy Implementation Internal Management Directive (2001).

 

On Sept. 19, 2013, EPA approved a provision in Oregon’s Antidegradation rule stating that certain nonpoint source activities (rotation of grazing pastures and cropping) do not require an antidegradation review. Because the rule has been in place since 2003, this EPA action does not require changes to DEQ’s implementation of the antidegradation policy.

On Aug. 8, 2013, DEQ received a letter of review from EPA on Oregon's antidegradation implementation methods as described in the internal guidance document above. DEQ developed on a series of memos clarifying implementation procedures to address issues raised in EPA's review.

 

 Aron Borok 503-229-5050 (toll-free in Oregon at 800-452-4011, ext. 5050).