The department of ecology (ecology) is proposing to issue a general permit to cover nonnative invasive aquatic animal and nonnative invasive marine algae activities in surface waters of the state. These management activities may result in the discharge of chemicals to the surface waters of the state of Washington. We are requesting comments about whether or not it is appropriate for ecology to develop a permit for these activities. We are also interested in what activities and/or chemicals should be included in this permit. This comment period ends August 20, 2007, at 5 p.m. Please direct comments to: Kathy Hamel, Washington State Department of Ecology, P.O. Box 47600, Olympia, WA 98504-7600, phone (360) 407-6562, e-mail Kham461@ecy.wa.gov.
Purpose of the General Permit: The proposed general permit will cover nonnative invasive aquatic animal control activities and nonnative invasive marine algae control activities that result in the discharge of chemicals and other control products into surface waters of the state of Washington. Surface waters include freshwater, brackish, marine, and estuarine waters. Products regulated under this proposed permit include algaecides, biopesticides, insecticides, molluscicides, piscicides and any other product appropriate for use in managing nonnative invasive aquatic animals or nonnative invasive marine algae.
The proposed permit would provide a mechanism to allow Washington state agencies to treat early and small localized infestations that may lead to the eradication of the invasive species from each site and from the state, or for the containment of invasive species to one area or site. This permit would not include maintenance and operation activities at facilities that may be affected by well-established invasive animal species.
Under the Washington State Water Pollution Control Act, a permit is required for the discharge of pollutants which may alter the biological or chemical characteristics of a water body. The proposed permit addresses these legal requirements and regulates the discharge of pollutants to protect surface water quality in Washington state.
Ecology issues general permits in place of a series of individual permits when the permitted activities are similar. Agencies that receive coverage under the general permit must comply with the terms and conditions of the permit.