Influencing Water Quality Standards One

The Clean Water Act requires each state to hold regular public hearings on the adequacy of its water quality standards. These hearings must be held “from time to time,” but “at least once every three years” (40CFR131.20). This review is commonly known as the "triennial review."

The entire state water quality standards system is up for analysis, debate and revision during the triennial review. This is the public’s best chance to comment on individual pieces of the system, including:

• the state’s designated uses;
• the criteria associated with designated uses;
• the segments into which water bodies are divided for classification;
• the antidegradation policy and implementation procedures; and
• any other “general policies” (including narrative criteria, variances and mixing zone rules).

Take this opportunity to comment on the adequacy of each piece of the standards, as well as on how well these pieces collectively protect and restore the state’s waters. You should also take the opportunity to make specific suggestions for improvements. On the basis of new public input, scientific information and agency review, the state may decide to propose a change in one or more of the water quality policies or rules.

Unfortunately, few states perform the triennial review every three years. It is important for citizens to insist on the review of water quality standards as close to every three years as possible.

Outside of the triennial review, states can initiate changes by consulting with the EPA, notifying the public, and providing ample opportunity for public review and comment. The public review and comment process must include at least one public hearing (40CFR131.20(b)). Proposed changes must go to the EPA for review and approval. The EPA has the same amount of time to take action as it does during the triennial review.

The public can also initiate standards changes. The rules for initiating changes vary from state to state. They should be available from your state agency or your regional EPA office.