EPA requests comment on draft water quality criteria for cadmium

EPA is requesting public comment on draft water quality criteria for aquatic life for the metal cadmium. Chronic exposure to cadmium negatively impacts growth, development, behavior, reproduction, and immune and endocrine systems in aquatic life. Mining and urbanization are responsible for approximately 90 percent of the cadmium found in surface waters. The draft cadmium water quality criteria reflect the best available science, including the results of new laboratory aquatic toxicity tests. The draft criteria underwent an external peer review that was completed in 2015. EPA will accept public comments on the draft criteria for 60 days after publication in the Federal Register. Once finalized, EPA’s criteria for cadmium will provide recommendations to states and tribes authorized to establish water quality standards under the Clean Water Act.