FAIRBANKS, AK, Aug. 5, 2004 -- The Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation has proposed changes to state water quality standards for mixing zones, or areas where industrial discharge from operations such as mining, seafood processing, oil and gas production and sewage treatment are diluted by receiving waters.
See www.state.ak.us/dec/public_notices.htm for details. Public comment is due by Sept. 10. Public meetings are being held in:
-- Fairbanks, Aug. 24 from 4-6 p.m. - 119 N Cushman Street, Suite 101.
-- Anchorage, Aug. 25 from 4-6 p.m. - 716 W. 4th Ave, Suite 200.
-- Juneau, Aug. 26 from 4-6 p.m.- Terry Miller Building, Suite 111.
According to the Peninsula Clarion newspaper, the proposal is opposed by Cook Inlet Keeper, an environmental group that monitors the water quality of the area watershed and claims DEC undermines water protection standards whenever it approves a mixing zone permit.
The proposed amendments resulted from a regular triennial review of Alaska Water Quality Standards.
Comments may be sent to Nancy Sonafrank, 610 University Drive, Fairbanks, AK 99709, or send email to nancy_son [email protected].
Comments may be phoned in from home to any one of the three public hearings by calling (800) 385-5073. Call by 4 p.m. to register you intent to testify.
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