Please consider submitting comments to the Iowa DNR (with a copy to the EPA)
regarding the draft methods for including water bodies on the impaired waters
list.  Comments must be submitted by May 17, 2002.  Feel free to personalize
the following sample letter:

Chris Van Gorp
Department of Natural Resources
Wallace State Office Building
502 East 9th Street
Des Moines, IA 50319
[log in to unmask]

Dear Mr. Van Gorp:
       I appreciate the opportunity to comment on the DNR's draft methodology
for developing Iowa's 2002 Section 303(d) list of impaired waters.
       My main concern with the draft methodology is the potential it creates
for EPA disapproval of Iowa's 303(d) list.  The Introduction of the draft
methodology states that "where inconsistencies exist between requirements of
the federal TMDL regulations and Iowa's credible data law, IDNR has noted the
inconsistency and has made this methodology consistent with Iowa's credible
data law."
       If Iowa develops its 2002 303(d) list using a methodology that
violates federal law, there is a great possibility that the list will be
wholly or partially disapproved by the EPA.  The state of Iowa should not
have to have a federal agency continue to step in and take over the listing
process.  The state's listing methodology should be consistent with federal
regulations, so Iowa can retain control over the listing process.

Sincerely,
Your name and address

REMEMBER- send a copy of your comments to:
Paul Schwaab
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region VII
901 North 5th Street
Kansas City, KS 66101



Erin Jordahl
Director, Iowa Chapter Sierra Club
3839 Merle Hay Road, Suite 280
Des Moines, IA 50310
515-277-8868
[log in to unmask]
[log in to unmask]