For immediate release: January 27, 2010

DNR MOVES FORWARD ON STREAM ASSESSMENTS, MEETS WITH CITIES AND INDUSTRIES 
STATEWIDE

An upcoming series of meetings will focus on DNR stream assessments and the 
effects they will have on cities and businesses discharging treated 
wastewater to Iowa streams.

The six meetings across the state provide an important dialogue with 
communities on how Iowa will implement significant changes to stream 
classifications in the state's water quality standards. The DNR made the 
changes in 2006 to meet requirements of the federal Clean Water Act.

The meetings are listed below:

Atlantic:
Monday, Feb. 1, 3:30 p.m.
Atlantic Municipal Utilities, 15 W. Third St.

Spencer:
Tuesday, Feb. 2, 3:00 p.m.
Spencer Public Library, 21 E. Third St.

Independence:
Thursday, Feb. 4, 3:30 p.m.
Falcon Civic Center, 1305 Fifth Ave NE

Washington:
Monday, Feb. 8, 2009, 12:00 p.m.
Washington Public Library, 120 E. Main St.

Clear Lake:
Tuesday, Feb. 9, 12:00 p.m.
Clear Lake Community Center, 15 N. Sixth St.

Des Moines:
Tuesday, Feb. 16, 1:00 p.m.
Wallace State Office Building, 502 E. Ninth St., fourth floor conference 
rooms

The changes in 2006 created a presumption that all streams deserve the 
highest classification and the highest level of protection. Since then, the 
DNR has conducted stream assessments in groups to determine what stream 
classification is most appropriate for those streams. These stream studies 
can change the level of protection on some streams, which will affect how 
some cities and industries will need to treat effluent being released to 
Iowa streams. The DNR held similar rounds of meetings in 2007 and 2009.

In the meetings, the DNR will address concerns of cities and businesses that 
may face stricter permit requirements when new water quality standards go 
into effect. The meetings will include a short presentation, a general 
question and answer session, and one-on-one consultations with 
representatives of industries and municipalities.

Some facilities may need to make minor to major upgrades on their facilities 
in coming years to meet new permit limits. These new permits will further 
limit the amount of pollutants entering Iowa's streams and rivers.

For more information on water quality standards, visit the DNR's Web site at
www.iowadnr.gov/water/standards/.

MEDIA CONTACT: Lori McDaniel at (515) 281-8094 or [log in to unmask]

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