Author: Anna Marron

September 12, 2025

Contact: Marcelo Gracia, IPDES Individual Permit Writer, marcelo.gracia@deq.idaho.gov

MOSCOW – The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) is releasing an Idaho Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (IPDES) preliminary draft permit to the Moscow Water Reclamation Facility for preliminary review.

The facility has ten days to review the materials for any errors and omissions before the public comment period.

DEQ will revise the preliminary draft permit as needed and notify all necessary parties when the materials are posted for public review, per the “Rules Regulating the Idaho Pollutant Discharge Elimination System Program” (IDAPA 58.01.25.109). To be notified, go to the DEQ’s Newsroom page and click the “Subscribe” link.

September 3, 2025

Contact: Skye Bensel, Water Quality Scientist, Skye.Bensel@deq.idaho.gov

STAR – The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) is reaching out to private well owners in the Northeast Star Nitrate Priority Area, near Star, Idaho, to participate in a sampling event.  

Sampling will test for nitrates, arsenic, uranium, bacteria, and common ions at private wells, and will take place in September and October of this year. Participation is free and well owners will receive a copy of the results. 

DEQ maintains a list of degraded groundwater areas throughout the state, which are referred to as nitrate priority areas. The Northeast Star sampling event will revisit sites sampled by DEQ and other agencies prior to 2021. The sampling will also include new locations to update the nitrate concentration data in this region. Outcomes will help DEQ better understand nitrate levels in the aquifer and help local decision makers implement best management practices.  

Once results are analyzed, information will be provided to the private well owners, which can be used to help protect the quality of their well water and the health of those relying on it.  

Groundwater provides over 95% of Idaho’s drinking water and nitrate is the most common and widespread contaminant in groundwater. Nitrate exposure can have serious health effects, but certain groups are particularly vulnerable, including people with pre-existing health conditions, pregnant women, and young children under the age of six months. Infants who drink water containing nitrate above the maximum contaminant limit can become seriously ill and, if untreated, may die. Symptoms include shortness of breath and blue-baby syndrome, also known as Methemoglobinemia. This condition can occur rapidly, over the course of just a few days. Do not attempt to remove nitrate from drinking water by boiling it. This will concentrate nitrate levels. 

If you are interested in participating, contact Skye Bensel at (208) 805-2070 or Skye.Bensel@deq.idaho.gov by September 16, 2025.  

August 27, 2025

Contact: Karen Frazier, Individual Permit Writer, Karen.Frazier@deq.idaho.gov

BOISE – The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) today released an Idaho Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (IPDES) preliminary draft permit to the city of Genesee preliminary review.

The facility will have an opportunity to review the preliminary draft permit and fact sheet for any errors and omissions that should be addressed before the public participation period.

DEQ will then revise the preliminary draft permit as needed, at which point it will be available for public review. DEQ will notify all necessary parties that the draft permit, fact sheet, and associated application have been posted on DEQ’s website, per the “Rules Regulating the Idaho Pollutant Discharge Elimination System Program” (IDAPA 58.01.25.109). To be notified, go to the DEQ’s “Newsroom” page and click the “Subscribe” button.

August 25, 2025

CONTACT: Aaron Trevino, TMDL Analyst, Aaron.Trevino@deq.idaho.gov  

TWIN FALLS – The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) is seeking representatives from the environmental and nonmunicipal permittee industries to fill two vacancies on the Upper Snake Basin Advisory Group (BAG). 

The Upper Snake BAG is comprised of citizens appointed by DEQ’s director, who represent stakeholder groups from 19 counties in southern Idaho. The BAG advises DEQ on water quality objectives the Upper Snake Basin and represents industries and interests directly affected by water quality programs within the basin.

The BAG meets as necessary to advise DEQ on the following matters:

• Priorities within the basin
• Revisions needed in the designated beneficial uses for water bodies within the basins
• Categories to which water bodies in the basin should be assigned
• Processes for developing and implementing total daily maximum daily loads
• Members to be appointed to watershed advisory groups
• Water quality 319 nonpoint source priority projects throughout the region

Members must have a demonstrated interest or expertise that will benefit the work of the group.

Anyone interested in serving on the BAG as a representative of the above interest groups should contact Aaron Trevino at (208) 736-2190 or aaron.trevino@deq.idaho.gov by 5 p.m. on September 23, 2025, MDT. The next BAG meeting is scheduled for September 24, 2025.

August 15, 2025

Contact: Aaron Trevino, TMDL Analyst, Aaron.trevino@deq.idaho.gov 

TWIN FALLS — The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) is seeking a representative from the concentrated animal feeding operation or irrigated agriculture industry to fill a vacancy on the Wood River Watershed Advisory Group (WAG).  

The Wood River WAG is a group of citizens from a diverse set of interests dedicated to the successful restoration and protection of the Big Wood River, Little Wood River, and Camas Creek watersheds. These watersheds cover Blaine, Camas, Gooding, and Lincoln counties. 

The group meets quarterly, and members are asked to serve at least two-year terms. Responsibilities include:  

• Developing water quality improvement plans known as total maximum daily loads, or TMDLs, for streams, lakes, and rivers with degraded water quality conditions within the watershed.  
• Helping identify contributing pollution sources in the watershed.  
• Recommending specific actions needed to effectively control sources of pollution to the water bodies.  
• Helping develop and implement a plan to meet water quality targets identified in the TMDLs.  

Anyone interested in serving on the WAG as a representative should contact Aaron Trevino at (208) 736-2190 or aaron.trevino@deq.idaho.gov by 5 p.m. on September 15, 2025, MDT.  

The next WAG meeting is scheduled for September 9, 2025, at 1:30 p.m. MDT at the Wood River Canal Company (409 N Apple Street, Shoshone, Idaho). Anyone interested in joining the WAG is encouraged to attend. 

August 14, 2025

Contact: Nicholas Howell, Source Water Protection Analyst, nicholas.howell@idaho.deq.gov

BURLEY – The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) is extending the deadline for private well owners in the Marsh Creek Nitrate Priority Area, south of the Snake River, to participate in a private well sampling event.

The deadline was initially set for August 25, 2025. Well owners now have until September 5, 2025. To participate, contact Nicholas Howell at (208) 736-2190 or Nicholas.Howell@deq.idaho.gov.

The sampling event will test for nitrates, bacteria, and common ions at private wells, and will take place in September and October of this year. Participation is free and well owners will receive a copy of the results.

DEQ maintains a list of degraded groundwater areas throughout the state, which are referred to as nitrate priority areas. The Burley sampling event is designed to revisit sites in the Marsh Creek Nitrate Priority Area sampled by other state agencies prior to 2010. The sampling will also include new locations to update the nitrate concentration data in this region. Outcomes will help DEQ better understand nitrate levels in the aquifer and help local decision makers implement best management practices. Once results are analyzed, information will be provided to the private well owners, which can be used to help protect the quality of their well water and the health of those relying on it. 

Groundwater provides over 95% of Idaho’s drinking water and nitrate is the most common and widespread contaminant in groundwater. Nitrate exposure can have serious health effects, but certain groups are particularly vulnerable, including people with pre-existing health conditions, pregnant women, and young children under the age of six months. Infants who drink water containing nitrate above the maximum contaminant limit can become seriously ill and, if untreated, may die. Symptoms include shortness of breath and blue-baby syndrome, also known as Methemoglobinemia. This condition can occur rapidly, over the course of just a few days. Do not attempt to remove nitrate from drinking water by boiling it. This will concentrate nitrate levels.

July 8, 2025 

BOISE – States, territories, and tribes interested in nonpoint source pollution management activities have until July 15, 2025, to submit applications under the federal § 319 grant program. 

Section 319 of the Clean Water Act established a grant program to support a variety of nonpoint source pollution management activities, including technical assistance, financial assistance, education, training, technology transfer, demonstration projects, and monitoring to assess the success of specific nonpoint source implementation projects. 

The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) awards nonpoint source grants annually on a competitive basis. A successful grant must focus on reducing pollutant loads and improving the water quality of lakes, streams, rivers, and aquifers. Funds may be used to address nonpoint source management and prevention activities: 

• Agriculture 
• Stormwater 
• Transportation
• Silvicultural or forestry-related activities 
• Groundwater activities 
• Mining 
• Hydrologic and habitat modifications 

Application Process 

All applicants will need to create an account and submit a completed application using DEQ new online grant management system, Amplifund. Instructions can be found on DEQ’s Grant Funding Resources web page and Nonpoint Source Subgrants in Idaho web page under the header “Important Dates and Other Information.”  

June 26, 2025

Track water sampling locations and health advisories: 

• Idaho Recreational Water Health Advisories 
• Cyanobacteria sampling test results 

Report a potential harmful algal bloom: 

• Online form 
• (866) 671-5385
• algae@deq.idaho.gov 

BOISE – Summer is peak season for harmful algal blooms (also known as blue-green algae, cyanobacteria harmful algal blooms, or HABs) and Idahoans are reminded to stay safe and protect their pets when recreating in and around water. 

Cyanobacteria are naturally occurring aquatic organisms. However, under certain conditions, the bacteria can produce toxins that affect human health and the environment. Humans and animals can be exposed to cyanotoxins by swimming in or swallowing water impacted by a bloom or consuming fish caught in affected waterbodies. Swallowing water impacted by a bloom can cause stomach pain, nausea, and vomiting. Direct skin contact may also cause skin and eye irritation. 

Pets, livestock, and wildlife are especially prone to cyanobacteria exposure because they are more likely to swim in or drink affected water. If your pet or livestock is exposed to water containing a suspected or confirmed bloom, wash them immediately with freshwater and soap, and do not let them lick their fur. Seek veterinary care immediately if your pets or livestock seem sick after going in or near water. 

Harmful algal blooms can vary in appearance but can often look like pea soup, grass clippings, spilled paint, mats, green or blue-green foam, or dense surface scum. Some blooms may produce a foul odor. 

The following safety tips can help you and your pets stay safe this summer: 

• Check the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare’s Recreational Water Health Advisories Map for active health advisories before visiting Idaho’s water bodies. Following health advisories will reduce your chance of exposure and potential illness. 
• Check the Idaho Department of Environmental Quality’s Cyanobacteria Harmful Algal Bloom web page for current water quality sampling data. 
• When in doubt, stay out and keep your pets and livestock out of the water.  
• Avoid water that smells bad, looks discolored, or has foam, scum, mats, or paint-like streaks on the surface. 
• Do not drink or cook with water containing a bloom. Boiling or filtering the water does not remove the toxins and can increase the risk. 

For more information, see the following resources: 

• Idaho Department of Health and Welfare’s list of frequently asked questions. 
• Idaho Department of Health and Welfare’s HABs fishing fact sheet. 
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Animal Safety Alert Fact Sheet. 

June 26, 2025

Contact: Triffie Ransom, IPDES Permit Writer, triffie.ransom@deq.idaho.gov

BOISE – The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) is releasing an Idaho Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (IPDES) preliminary draft permit to JK Potatoes LLC for preliminary review. The facility has ten days to review the preliminary draft permit and fact sheet for any errors and omissions that should be addressed before the public participation period.

After the preliminary draft period, DEQ will revise the materials as needed and formally notify all parties that the materials are posted on DEQ’s website for public comment, per the “Rules Regulating the Idaho Pollutant Discharge Elimination System Program” (IDAPA 58.01.25.109). To be notified of the forthcoming posting, go to the DEQ’s Newsroom page and click the “subscribe” button.

June 5, 2025

Contact: David McIntyre, Water Quality Analyst, David.McIntyre@deq.idaho.gov

LEWISTON – The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) is extending the deadline to join the Lower North Fork Clearwater River Watershed Advisory Group (WAG) to June 30, 2025.

An earlier news release announced a deadline of May 31, 2025.

The Lower North Fork Clearwater River WAG is a group of citizens from a diverse set of interests dedicated to the successful restoration and protection of the Lower North Fork Clearwater River watershed. The watershed includes the tributary waterbodies to Dworshak Reservoir and spans parts of Clearwater, Latah, and Shoshone counties, from which the WAG seeks to have representation.  

The WAG will advise DEQ on water quality improvement plans called total maximum daily loads (TMDLs), guide implementation of water quality improvements, and represent interests directly affected by water quality programs within the watershed.

Representatives from the following fields of interest are encouraged to apply: 

• Agriculture 
• Mining 
• Point source dischargers (industry) 
• Forest products 
• Local government 
• Livestock 
• Indian Tribes of Idaho
• Water-based recreation 
• Environmental interests 
• Land management and regulatory agencies 

Members do not need to be water quality experts to serve on a WAG. Individuals interested in acting as a representative should contact David McIntyre at (208) 799-4370, or David.McIntyre@deq.idaho.gov by 5 pm Mountain Time on June 30, 2025. 

June 2, 2025

Contact: MaryAnna Peavey, Grant and Loan Bureau Chief, maryanna.peavey@deq.idaho.gov

BOISE – The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) today awarded $3,932,000 in drinking water emerging contaminant construction loan funding to the YMCA Camp at Horsethief Reservoir and the city of St. Maries.

The YMCA Camp at Horsethief Reservoir in Valley County received $1,570,000 in drinking water emerging contaminant construction funding to address cyanobacteria and cyanotoxins present in the water supply drawn from Horsethief Reservoir.

The city of St. Maries in Benewah County received $2,362,000 in drinking water emerging contaminant funding to address manganese in drinking water sources through planning, design, and construction efforts.

The loans from DEQ’s State Revolving Loan Fund are capitalized annually by grants from the United States Environmental Protection Agency’s Emerging Contaminants Program, which is funded through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. The funding offers favorable loan terms that represent a $7,832,216 savings to the communities when compared to average costs for municipal general obligation debt issuances.

June 2, 2025

Contact: MaryAnna Peavey, Grants and Loans Bureau Chief, maryanna.peavey@deq.idaho.gov

BOISE — The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) today awarded $9,640,000 to water systems in Canyon and Boundary counties to support infrastructure construction and upgrades.

The funding will support the following projects:

City of Wilder Wastewater Reuse System Construction

The city of Wilder in Canyon County received a $9,140,000 low-interest wastewater construction loan to help design and construct a wastewater reuse system. The project will include required upgrades to comply with regulatory permit limits.

DEQ is authorized by state law to make loans to assist in the construction of public wastewater systems. Since the annual cost of wastewater service for residential customers exceeds 1.5% of the median household income, the city qualifies for a disadvantaged loan, which carries favorable repayment terms.

The loan from DEQ’s State Revolving Loan Fund, which is capitalized annually by grants from the United States Environmental Protection Agency, carries a simple 2% interest rate, is payable over 30 years, and has $6,071,960 in principal forgiveness. The favorable loan terms represent a $14,485,907 savings to the community when compared to average costs for municipal general obligation debt issuances.

Curley Creek Water Association Drinking Water System Upgrades

The Curley Creek Water Association received a $500,000 low-interest drinking water loan to construct a new reservoir and install new booster pumps, an automated treatment system, and a secondary well. These projects will help address contamination and limited flow capacity within the system.

DEQ is authorized by state law to make loans to assist in the construction of public drinking water systems. Since the annual cost of drinking water service for residential customers exceeds 1.5% of the median household income, Curley Creek Water Association qualifies for a disadvantaged loan, which carries favorable repayment terms.

The loan from DEQ’s State Revolving Loan Fund, which is capitalized annually by grants from the United States Environmental Protection Agency, carries a simple 2% interest rate, is payable over 30 years, and has $500,000 in principal forgiveness. The favorable loan terms represent a $1,000,664 in savings to the community when compared to average costs for municipal general obligation debt issuances.

May 29, 2025

Contact: Matthew Stutzman, IPDES Individual Permit Supervisor, matthew.stutzman@deq.idaho.gov

BOISE – The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) released modified Idaho Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (IPDES) preliminary draft permits to the Hayden Area Regional Sewer Board and the cities of Post Falls and Coeur d’Alene for preliminary review.

The entities have ten days to review the preliminary draft permit and fact sheet for any errors and omissions that should be addressed before the public participation period.

After the preliminary draft period, DEQ will revise the materials as needed and formally notify all parties that the materials are posted on DEQ’s website for public comment, per the “Rules Regulating the Idaho Pollutant Discharge Elimination System Program” (IDAPA 58.01.25.109). Because these are permit modifications for the sewer board and the city of Post Falls, and a second public comment period for the city of Coeur d’Alene, the upcoming public comment periods will focus only on the revisions to the permits. To be notified of the forthcoming posting, go to the DEQ’s Newsroom page and click the Subscribe button.

May 29, 2025

Contact: Tasha Owen, Senior Water Quality Scientist, tasha.owen@deq.idaho.gov

TWIN FALLS — The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) is seeking representatives from conservation, livestock and grazing, and recreation groups, or current Middle Snake Regional Water Resource Commission members to join the Middle Snake Watershed Advisory Group (WAG).

The Middle Snake WAG is a group of citizens from a diverse set of interests dedicated to successful restoration and protection of the Middle Snake River. The Middle Snake River WAG encompasses the Upper Snake Rock Subbasin, from which the group seeks representation. The group meets quarterly and works with DEQ on the following deliverables:

• Developing water quality improvement plans known as total maximum daily loads for streams, lakes, and rivers with degraded water quality conditions within the watershed.
• Helping identify contributing pollution sources in the watershed.
• Recommending specific actions needed to effectively control sources of pollution to the water bodies.
• Helping develop and implement a plan to meet water quality targets identified in the TMDLs.

Anyone interested in serving as a representative of the above interest groups should contact Tasha Owen at (208) 736-2190 or tasha.owen@deq.idaho.gov by 5 p.m. MDT on August 29, 2025. The next WAG meeting is scheduled for August 2025 at DEQ’s Twin Falls office (650 Addison Ave West, Suite 110, Twin Falls, Idaho). Anyone interested in joining the WAG is encouraged to attend.

May 15, 2025

Contact: Alex Bell, Regional Water Quality Manager, alex.bell@deq.idaho.gov

IDAHO FALLS – The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) seeks additional applications for the newly formed Teton River Watershed Advisory Group (WAG).

The Teton River WAG will be a group of citizens from a diverse set of interests dedicated to the successful restoration and protection of the Teton River, including all tributaries upstream to the headwaters and downstream to Henry’s Fork. Following the initial announcement in March, DEQ received applications to fill two positions. DEQ is currently seeking the following representation for the WAG:

• Agriculture
• Livestock
• Local government
• Tribal
• Water-based recreation
• Forestry and forest products

The group will meet twice a year, or as needed. Responsibilities include working with DEQ on the following deliverables:

• Developing water quality improvement plans, also known as total maximum daily loads (TMDLs) for streams, lakes, and rivers with degraded water quality conditions within the watershed.
• Helping to identify contributing pollution sources in the watershed.
• Recommending specific actions needed to effectively control sources of pollution to the water bodies.
• Helping develop and implement a plan to meet water quality targets identified in the TMDLs.

Anyone interested in serving on the WAG should contact Alex Bell at (208) 528-2679 or at alex.bell@deq.idaho.gov by June 30, 2025, at 5 pm MDT. Meetings are open to the public and the date and location of the first meeting will be announced soon.

May 5, 2025

Contact: Lauri Monnot, IPDES Municipal Permit Writer, Lauri.Monnot@deq.idaho.gov

BOISE – The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) is releasing an Idaho Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (IPDES) preliminary draft permit to the city of Gooding for preliminary review.

The facility has ten days to review the preliminary draft permit and fact sheet for any errors and omissions that should be addressed before the public participation period.

After the preliminary draft period, DEQ will make revisions as needed and formally notify all necessary parties that the draft permit, fact sheet, and associated application have been posted on DEQ’s website for public review and comment, per the “Rules Regulating the Idaho Pollutant Discharge Elimination System Program” (IDAPA 58.01.25.109). To be notified of the forthcoming posting, go to the DEQ’s Newsroom page and click the Subscribe button.

April 18, 2025

Contact: Triffie Ransom, IPDES Permit Writer, triffie.ransom@deq.idaho.gov

BOISE – The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) is releasing a revised Idaho Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (IPDES) preliminary draft permit to Perpetua Resources Idaho, Inc. for preliminary review.

The facility has ten days to review the preliminary draft permit and fact sheet for any errors and omissions that should be addressed before the public participation period.

After the preliminary draft period has concluded, DEQ will revise the preliminary draft permit as needed, at which point it will soon become a draft permit for public review and comment. DEQ will formally notify all necessary parties that the draft permit, fact sheet, and associated application have been posted on DEQ’s website for public review and comment, per the “Rules Regulating the Idaho Pollutant Discharge Elimination System Program” (IDAPA 58.01.25.109). To be notified of the forthcoming posting, go to the DEQ’s Newsroom page, and click the subscribe button.

April 15, 2025 

Contact:  Bonnie Yoshizaki, Nonpoint Source Coordinator, Bonnie.Yoshizaki@deq.idaho.gov 

BOISE – The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) is seeking grant applications for the fiscal year 2026 federal nonpoint source management § 319 funding cycle. 

Section 319 of the Clean Water Act established a grant program to support a variety of nonpoint source pollution management activities, including technical assistance, financial assistance, education, training, technology transfer, demonstration projects, and monitoring to assess the success of specific nonpoint source implementation projects. 

Grants are awarded annually on a competitive basis. A successful grant must focus on reducing pollutant loads and improving the quality of lakes, streams, rivers, and aquifers. Funds may be used to address nonpoint source management and prevention activities, including: 

• Agriculture 
• Stormwater 
• Transportation
• Silvicultural or forestry-related activities 
• Ground water activities 
• Mining 
• Hydrologic and habitat modifications 

Application Process 

All applicants will need to create an account and submit a completed application using DEQ’s online grant management system, AmpliFund. Instructions can be found on DEQ’s Grant Funding Resources web page and Nonpoint Source Subgrants in Idaho web page under the header “Important Dates and Other Information.” 

DEQ is accepting applications from April 15 through July 15, 2025. 

April 8, 2025 

Contact:  Bonnie Yoshizaki, Nonpoint Source Coordinator, Bonnie.Yoshizaki@deq.idaho.gov 

BOISE — Applicants interested in implementing agricultural or ranching best management practices have until April 15, 2025, to submit applications under the state Agricultural Best Management Practices (BMP) Grant Program. 

The grant program is designed to support water quality improvement efforts statewide, including helping landowners modify their agricultural practices to reduce water pollution and meet the objectives of total maximum daily load requirements. 

Eligible projects must address agricultural or ranching BMPs and be ready to implement. Projects must also involve multiple partners and leverage other funding resources. 

Application Process 

All applicants will need to create an account and submit a completed application using DEQ’s new online grant management system, AmpliFund. Instructions can be found on DEQ’s Grant Funding Resources web page and Nonpoint Source Subgrants in Idaho web page under the header “Important Dates and Other Information.” 

March 31, 2025 

CONTACT: Adam McMahon, Cyanidation Program Manager, Adam.McMahon@deq.idaho.gov 

BOISE – The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) is issuing a cyanidation permit for the Stibnite Gold Project (SGP). 

In accordance with the “Rules for Ore Processing by Cyanidation” (IDAPA 58.01.13), Perpetua Resources requested a permit to construct and operate a cyanidation facility as part of the SGP, a proposed gold mine located in Valley County, approximately 12 miles east of Yellow Pine, Idaho. Following review of the complete permit application on November 1, 2024, DEQ determined the application for the tailings storage facility (TSF) and associated operation and maintenance plans accurate and protective, in accordance with IDAPA 58.01.13.300.02 and prepared a draft cyanidation permit. This permit establishes the procedures and requirements to construct, operate, and close that component of the cyanidation facility. 

DEQ initiated a 60-day public comment period on December 31, 2024, and hosted a public meeting for the draft permit on January 22, 2025. Following this review period, DEQ determined that the permit application for TSF and associated operation and maintenance plans meets the requirements of Idaho Code § 39-118. The Idaho Department of Lands also determined that the permanent closure plan meets the requirements of Chapter 15, Title 47, Idaho Code, and the rules promulgated thereunder. Therefore, DEQ is making a final permit decision to issue a permit to Perpetua Resources. 

Individuals may be entitled to appeal this action pursuant to the “Contested Case Rules and Rules for Protection and Disclosure of Records” (IDAPA 58.01.23).  For more information, see DEQ’s Petitions for Review and Precedential Orders web page. 

For more information on the final permit, including the permit, fact sheet, and responses to comments, see DEQ’s Issued Permits and Water Quality Certification web page. 

March 17, 2025

Contact: Alex Bell, Regional Water Quality Manager, alex.bell@deq.idaho.gov

IDAHO FALLS – The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) seeks members for the newly formed Teton River Watershed Advisory Group (WAG).

The Teton River WAG will be a group of citizens from a diverse set of interests dedicated to the successful restoration and protection of the Teton River, including all tributaries upstream to the headwaters and downstream to Henry’s Fork.

The WAG is currently seeking the following representation:

• Agriculture
• Livestock
• Local government
• Tribal
• Water-based recreation
• Forestry and forest products
• Environmental
• Local member at large

The group will meet twice a year, or as needed. Responsibilities include working with DEQ on the following deliverables:

• Developing water quality improvement plans, also known as total maximum daily loads (TMDLs) for streams, lakes, and rivers with degraded water quality conditions within the watershed.
• Helping to identify contributing pollution sources in the watershed.
• Recommending specific actions needed to effectively control sources of pollution to the water bodies.
• Helping develop and implement a plan to meet water quality targets identified in the TMDLs.

Anyone interested in serving on the WAG should contact Alex Bell at (208) 528-2679 or at alex.bell@deq.idaho.gov by 5 p.m. on April 28, 2025, MDT. Meetings are open to the public and the date and location of the first meeting will be announced soon.

March 14, 2025 

Contact:  Bonnie Yoshizaki, Nonpoint Source Coordinator, Bonnie.Yoshizaki@deq.idaho.gov 

BOISE — The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) is accepting applications for the fiscal year 2026 State Agricultural Best Management Practices (BMP) Grant Program. 

The grant program supports water quality improvement efforts statewide, including helping landowners modify their agricultural practices to reduce water pollution and meet the objectives of total maximum daily load requirements. Eligible projects must address agricultural or ranching BMPs and be ready to implement. Projects must also involve multiple partners and leverage other funding resources. 

Application Process 

All applicants will need to create an account and submit a completed application using DEQ’s online grant management system, AmpliFund. Instructions can be found on DEQ’s Grant Funding Resources web page and Nonpoint Source Subgrants in Idaho web page under the header “Important Dates and Other Information.” 

Applications will be accepted from March 14, 2025, through April 15, 2025. 

March 10, 2025 

Contact: Aaron Trevino, TMDL Analyst, aaron.trevino@deq.idaho.gov 

TWIN FALLS – The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) is seeking a member to represent confined animal feeding operation and irrigated agriculture interests on the Wood River Watershed Advisory Group (WAG).  

The Wood River WAG is a group of citizens from a diverse set of interests dedicated to successful restoration and protection of the Big Wood River, Little Wood River, and Camas Creek watersheds. These watersheds cover Blaine, Camas, Gooding, and Lincoln counties, from which the WAG seeks to have representation.  

The group meets quarterly, and members are asked to serve at least two-year terms. Responsibilities include working with DEQ on the following deliverables:  

• Developing water quality improvement plans known as total maximum daily loads (TMDLs) for streams, lakes, and rivers with degraded water quality conditions within the watershed.  
• Helping identify contributing pollution sources in the watershed.  
• Recommending specific actions needed to effectively control sources of pollution to the water bodies.  
• Helping develop and implement a plan to meet water quality targets identified in the TMDLs.  

Anyone interested in serving on the WAG as a representative of the above interest groups should contact Aaron Trevino at (208) 736-2190 or aaron.trevino@deq.idaho.gov by April 15, 2025, at 5 p.m. Mountain Time. 

The next WAG meeting is scheduled for June 3, 2025, at 1:30 p.m. Mountain Time at the Wood River Canal Company (409 N Apple Street, Shoshone, Idaho). Anyone interested in joining the WAG is encouraged to attend. 

February 10, 2025

Contact: Cierra Stokes, Water Quality Analyst, Cierra.stokes@deq.idaho.gov

LEWISTON – The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) is seeking representatives to fill four vacancies on the Clearwater River Upper Tributaries Watershed Advisory Group (WAG).

The four vacancies are for mining, environmental, livestock and agriculture interests.

The Clearwater River Upper Tributaries WAG is comprised of a group of citizens dedicated to the successful restoration and protection of the upper tributaries of the Clearwater River, which include Jim Ford Creek, Orofino Creek, and Lolo Creek watersheds. These watersheds cover Clearwater and Idaho counties, from which the watershed advisory group seeks to have representation.

The WAG advises DEQ on water quality improvement plans called total maximum daily loads and provides guidance on how to implement water quality improvements in these watersheds.

Anyone interested in serving on the WAG as a representative of the above interest groups should contact Cierra Stokes at (208) 799-4370 or cierra.stokes@deq.idaho.gov by 5 pm on February 21, 2025.

February 4, 2025

Contact: Mary Anderson, Air Quality Bureau Chief, Mary.Anderson@deq.idaho.gov 

BOISE – The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) recommends that the U. S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) designate all Idaho airsheds as meeting new federal health standards for particulate matter (PM_2.5).  

In 2024, EPA lowered the annual health-based National Ambient Air Quality Standards for PM_2.5 from 12 µg/m³ to 9 µg/m³. Particulate matter are microscopic particles emitted from sources like wildfires, outdoor burning, woodstoves, and vehicles. These particles can penetrate deep into the lungs and enter the bloodstream, increasing the risk of heart disease, lung cancer, stroke, and other health conditions, especially for vulnerable groups. 

DEQ is recommending that EPA exclude wildfire smoke impacts that contribute to days with high PM_2.5 concentrations, which would keep Idaho airsheds within the new national levels. Some wildfire events are considered “exceptional” and not representative of typical air quality conditions. EPA will review DEQ’s recommendation and finalize designations for Idaho based on the most recent data, most likely 2022-2024, by February 7, 2026.   

DEQ’s recommendation comes after Idaho communities have worked for years to improve air quality, including replacing old woodstoves, providing woodsheds and moisture meters to homeowners, and much more.  

DEQ’s recommendation letter is available here.

February 3, 2025

Contact: Amy Woody, Water Quality Analyst, Amy.Woody@deq.idaho.gov

IDAHO CITY – The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) seeks representatives to fill vacancies on the Boise-Mores Watershed Advisory Group (WAG).  

The Boise-Mores WAG is a group of citizens from a diverse set of interests dedicated to successful restoration and protection of Mores Creek, Grimes Creek, all tributaries upstream to the headwaters, Lucky Peak Reservoir, Arrowrock Reservoir, and the Middle Fork Boise River to the confluence of the North Fork Boise River. 

The WAG is currently seeking representation from the following interest areas:  

• Forestry and forest products 
• Fisheries 
• Idaho City municipal 
• Recreation 
• Tribal
• Local  

The group will meet quarterly or as needed. Responsibilities include working with DEQ on the following deliverables: 

• Developing water quality improvement plans known as total maximum daily loads (TMDLs) for streams, lakes, and rivers with degraded water quality conditions within the watershed. 
• Helping to identify contributing pollution sources in the watershed. 
• Recommending specific actions needed to effectively control sources of pollution to the water bodies. 
• Helping develop and implement a plan to meet water quality targets identified in the TMDLs. 

Anyone interested in serving on the WAG should contact Amy Woody at (208) 373-0274 or at amy.woody@deq.idaho.gov by 5 p.m. (MDT) on May 1, 2025. Meetings are open to the public and details will be announced at a later date.   

January 31, 2025 

Contact: Sujata Connell, Lewiston Regional Office Administrator, Sujata.Connell@deq.idaho.deq  

LEWISTON – The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) is seeking representatives to fill two vacancies on the Clearwater Basin Advisory Group (BAG). 

The two vacancies are for mining and the representative-at-large.  

The Clearwater BAG is comprised of citizens, appointed by DEQ’s director, that represent stakeholder groups from five counties in north central Idaho. The BAG advises DEQ on water quality objectives within Idaho’s Clearwater Basin and represents industries and interests directly affected by water quality programs within the basin. 

The BAG meets at least twice each year, but sometimes more frequently, to advise DEQ on the following matters: 

• Priorities within the basin 
• Revisions needed in the designated beneficial uses for water bodies within the basins 
• Categories to which water bodies in the basin should be assigned 
• Processes for developing and implementing total maximum daily loads 
• Members to be appointed to watershed advisory groups 
• Water quality nonpoint source pollutant reduction priorities throughout the region 

Members must have a demonstrated interest or expertise that will benefit the work of the group. Anyone interested in serving on the BAG as a representative for the above interests should contact Sujata Connell at (208) 799-4370 or Sujata.Connell@deq.idaho.gov by February 21, 2025, at 5 p.m.

January 24, 2025

Contact: Jake Barnes, Water Quality Analyst  jake.barnes@deq.idaho.gov 

TWIN FALLS – The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) seeks representatives to fill vacancies on the Walcott Watershed Advisory Group (WAG).  

The Walcott WAG is a group of citizens from a diverse set of interests dedicated to successful restoration and protection Lake Walcott, Goose Creek and Raft River watersheds. These watersheds cover Cassia, Minidoka, Power, Lincoln, Butte, Blaine, Twin Falls, and Oneida counties, from which the watershed advisory group seeks to have diverse representation.  

The WAG is currently seeking representation from the following interest areas:  

• Dryland and Rangeland  
• Local Governments  
• Recreation – Public Interest 
• Operators – Confined Livestock 

 The group meets quarterly and members are asked to serve at least two-year terms. Responsibilities include working with DEQ on the following deliverables: 

• Developing water quality improvement plans known as total maximum daily loads (TMDLs) for streams, lakes, and rivers with degraded water quality conditions within the watershed. 
• Helping identify contributing pollution sources in the watershed. 
• Recommending specific actions needed to effectively control sources of pollution to the water bodies. 
• Helping develop and implement a plan to meet water quality targets identified in the TMDLs. 

  Anyone interested in serving on the WAG should contact Jake Barnes at (208) 736-2190 or jake.barnes@deq.idaho.gov by April 30, 2025, at 5 p.m. MDT.  

  The next meeting is scheduled for April 17, 2025, at 2:30 p.m. MDT at the Bureau of Reclamation – Upper Snake River Field Office (470 22nd Street Heyburn, Idaho). This meeting is open to the public.  

January 15, 2025

Contact: MaryAnna Peavey, Grants and Loans Bureau Chief, maryanna.peavey@deq.idaho.gov

BOISE – The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality today awarded $4,553,300 in emerging contaminant construction loan funding to two Idaho water systems.

The following systems received funding:

City of Roberts – The city of Roberts in Jefferson County was awarded $4,196,800 to construct a building to house greensand filters and associated fixtures to help remove manganese. The city will also install an evaporation pond with an associated pipeline and pumps to dispose of the filtrate.

Hayden Lake Watershed Improvement District – The Hayden Lake Watershed Improvement District in Kootenai County was awarded $356,500 to identify sources of nutrients that promote harmful algal blooms and create a facility plan to develop mitigation strategies.

Emerging contaminant loans carry a simple 0% interest rate and $4,553,300 in principal forgiveness. The favorable loan terms represent a $7,937,149 in collective savings to the two communities when compared to average costs for municipal general obligation debt issuances. These funds are part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which is capitalized in DEQ’s State Revolving Fund program by grants from the United States Environmental Protection Agency.