DEQ is hosting a summit to discuss state water quality standards related to temperature.  Idaho's current temperature criteria for aquatic life uses (IDAPA 58.01.03.250) are under scrutiny for their protectiveness.  In April 2003, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued guidance that sets forth a recommended aquatic life use structure as well as supporting temperature criteria for the Pacific Northwest.  The issue before Idaho is to decide what actions the state should take to address temperature criteria.  This is a controversial topic given that some think DEQ already has overprotective standards, while others think DEQ's standards are not protective enough. 

In order to prepare for decision-making, DEQ is hosting a temperature summit to bring participants "up-to-speed" on the current situation confronting the state.  The summit will be educationally focused and will be structured to promote constructive dialogue.  At the summit, DEQ plans to discuss the history of water temperature issues in Idaho and the Pacific Northwest, the current temperature criteria in Idaho, EPA's regional temperature guidance, and Idaho's temperature-related efforts to date.  In addition, DEQ will present potential options for addressing temperature criteria and discuss information needs prior to the state's decision on this issue. 

To better facilitate statewide participation, this meeting will be conducted using videoconference technology.  Videoconferencing allows for visual as well as verbal interaction among multiple meeting locations.  The three meeting locations are:

• Boise State University, Simplot Micron Building - Room 210, See Map

           All seats at the Boise State University location have been filled.

• Idaho State University, Basement of Library - Inra Room, See Map
• University of Idaho, Janssen Engineering Building (JEB) - Room 111, See Map

All seats at the University of Idaho location have been filled. 

The meeting will be held on March 2, 2006, 9:00 a.m. - 4:15 p.m. (MST).  There is no cost to participate.  Please see the agenda for more information on presentation and discussion topics. 

DEQ encourages your attendance and productive participation at this summit.  We hope that participants will provide DEQ with valuable insight from both technical and policy perspectives, as well as gain a better understanding of the many variables impacting future decisions related to temperature. 

Space is limited, thus registration will be on a first come, first serve basis!  Please register on-line.  We look forward to your participation!