EGLE seeks public input on Multiple Discharger Variance for Mercury

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Public input opportunity: Draft Multiple Discharger Variance for Mercury 

The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) is seeking public input and comment for a Multiple Discharger Variance for Mercury for Fiscal Years 2020-2024 prior to submittal to the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

The Multiple Discharger Variance allows eligible National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permittees to discharge mercury above the standard in recognition that the primary source to Michigan surface waters is due to air deposition, limitations with treatment, and that efforts under previous variances have been successful in reducing or eliminating mercury to the environment.

A public meeting and hearing will be held via an online webinar and in person. The meeting and hearing will include an overview of the current draft Multiple Discharger Variance and highlight changes and additions from the previous Multiple Discharger Variance. The public will have an opportunity learn more from EGLE staff and provide formal comment.

Informational meeting: June 19, 10 a.m. - 11 a.m. 

Public hearing: June 19, 11 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Register for the informational meeting and public hearing webinar

Space will be available at 525 W. Allegan Street, Lansing, Michigan, 48933 for people to attend the sessions in-person. Check in at the front desk to be directed to the hearing room. 

Comments on the draft Multiple Discharger Variance may also be submitted to Amanda Bosak, Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy, Water Resources Division, P.O. Box 30458, Lansing, Michigan 48909-7773, by July 25, 2019

For more information, contact: Amanda Bosak, Water Resources Division, 517-599-9820 or visit the EGLE National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Applicable Rules and Regulations webpage.


Background: 

This review is consistent with Section 303(c) of the Clean Water Act and federal regulations at 40 Code of Federal Regulations 131 (Water Quality Standards) and 40 Code of Federal Regulations 132 (Water Quality Guidance for the Great Lakes System). A Multiple Discharger Variance for Michigan was first approved by the EPA in February 2000. Updates to the February 2000 Multiple Discharger Variance were approved by EPA in May 2004, December 2009, and December 2015. 

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