2024 Water Treatment Plant General Permit - Formal Comment Period

Dear James Hovis and WA Department of Ecology,

I would like to voice my opinion on the Draft Water Treatment Permit for Washington State after recently attending the hearing on April 22nd at 9am detailing the different changes made for the 2024 per...↓mit. As an incoming college student and Kirkland resident, I am highly interested in how clean water comes to our communities equitably. I agree with many of the changes added into this new permit, especially with the tighter restrictions for dumping in pH impaired waters as it will aid in the protection of water bodies.

One area I had a slight concern about was the Significant Contributors of Pollutants. I agree with the idea that Washington state should have the right to determine permit coverage for facilities that produce 35,000 or less gallons of water in order to protect water quality. The section then moved on to address that coverage may be required if the facility is a "significant contributor of pollutants" - I was wondering what the exact threshold for this would be, and how it would be made sure that it remains the standard for all facilities?


Lastly, I had noticed that in the permit there were no details on the tools in place that are aiding water treatment plants in more rural areas or underfunded plants that might not be able to sample as frequently or uphold the stricter standards outlined in the permit. Perhaps Washington State could outline a section in the permit that describes how underfunded WTAs can get extra support if needed so the community can get clean water?

Thank you for providing the opportunity to express my opinions,
Regards↓