Author: Anna McGeehan

October 20, 2021

COEUR D’ALENE — The Coeur d’Alene Lake Advisory Committee convened Wednesday to review 40 phosphorus-reduction proposals submitted by the local community and to determine how to best spend the $2 million provided under Governor Little’s Building Idaho’s Future initiative.

“We want to thank the public for participating,” said Bruce Cyr, a committee member representing lakeshore property owners. “All of us are in this room today because this means something to us. But it’s clear from the number of projects we received that it also means something to the people who live here.”

The projects fall into four main categories:

• Reducing wastewater pollution from point sources such as wastewater treatment plants.
• Managing stormwater that drains into the lake and its tributaries.
• Addressing nonpoint source pollution such as sediment loading through bank stabilization, wetland enhancements, and other efforts.
• Supporting research projects such as lake treatment options.

“Many of these projects are clearly beneficial,” said committee vice chair, Jack Riggs. “Anything we can do to help is better than not acting.”

To help the committee narrow down the list of eligible projects, DEQ staff scored each submission based on the cost per pound of phosphorus reduction, the total amount of phosphorus reduced, and the overall timeline, among other criteria.

“We only have $2 million to work with but this puts us in a good position to address future funding needs,” said Dan McCracken, DEQ’s regional administrator in the Coeur d’Alene Regional Office.

The committee will present a final list of projects and a prioritization recommendation at the November 17 meeting.

Media Contact

Dan McCracken
Coeur d’Alene Regional Administrator
Dan.McCracken@deq.idaho.gov
(208) 666-4621

October 19, 2021

BOISE — The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) seeks public comment on a proposed settlement action with Idaho Cobalt Company for unpermitted discharges of mining adit outflow to the North Fork of Iron Creek.

Idaho Cobalt Company owns and operates the Iron Creek Mine in Lemhi County, Idaho. Through a reconnaissance inspection and subsequent on-site inspection, DEQ determined there was a discharge from one of the mine adits. This type of discharge requires an Idaho Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (IPDES) permit under the “Rules Regulating the Idaho Pollutant Discharge Elimination System Program” (IDAPA 58.01.25.102), and the company had not applied for nor had been issued an IPDES permit at the time of discovery.

DEQ prepared a consent order that directs Idaho Cobalt Company to apply for an IPDES permit or take steps to cease the mine discharge, including developing a preliminary engineering report, construction plan, monitoring plan, operations and maintenance plan, and record plans and specifications. In addition, the company is required to pay a civil penalty of $95,110.40.

Written comments on the proposed settlement action will be accepted through November 19, 2021, at 5 p.m. MDT. This proposed settlement may be amended or adjusted in the future, in which case, DEQ may provide for additional public comment depending on the significance of the changes.

The consent order is available for review at DEQ’s State Office (1410 N. Hilton St.) and on DEQ’s Public Comment Opportunities page.

Submit comments electronically on DEQ’s website or by mail or email:

Brett Morrison
IPDES Compliance and Enforcement Officer
Idaho Department of Environmental Quality
1410 N Hilton St.
Boise, ID 83706
brett.morrison@deq.idaho.gov

Related Documents

Draft consent order

October 13, 2021

BOISE — The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) today announced the award of  $27,000 in drinking water construction assistance to Hoo Doo Water and Sewer District, Inc. in Latah County, Idaho.

The funding will be used for initial well analysis, water hauling, and to pay for Idaho Rural Water Association emergency support.

The assistance from DEQ’s State Revolving Fund, which is capitalized annually by grants from the US Environmental Protection Agency, provides this funding with no repayment obligation. The favorable loan terms represent a $36,777 savings to the community when compared to average costs for municipal general obligation issuances.

Staff Contact
MaryAnna Peavey
Grants and Loans Bureau Chief
MaryAnna.Peavey@deq.idaho.gov

October 5, 2021

BOISE — The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) is releasing an Idaho Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (IPDES) preliminary draft permit to the Go Left, LLC – The Edge Resort for preliminary review.

The facility has 10 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 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 Public Comment Opportunities page and click the ’Subscribe to this page‘ link.

Staff Contact

Rakael Pope
IPDES Industrial Permit Writer
Rakael.Pope@deq.idaho.gov

October 1, 2021

BOISE– The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) seeks comment on a draft Idaho Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (IPDES) permit for storm water discharges from construction projects of one acre or greater.

The draft permit would authorize the discharge of storm water and some non-storm water from construction projects of one acre or more within the state of Idaho for five years. The permit identifies the pollutants of concern, the required limits for each pollutant or parameter, and monitoring and reporting requirements necessary to ensure compliance with the permit and protect human health and the environment.

Written comments on the draft permit and fact sheet will be accepted through November 1, 2021, at 5 p.m. MDT. The draft permit and fact sheet are available for public review at DEQ’s state office (1410 N. Hilton St.), DEQ’s Regional Offices (Coeur d’Alene, Lewiston, Boise, Idaho Falls, Twin Falls, and Pocatello), and on DEQ’s website. A public meeting may be held, if requested in writing, by October 15, 2021.

Comments and questions regarding this process should be directed to Michael Snider, or on DEQ’s Public Comment Opportunities page. Comments should address water quality considerations and include supporting materials where available. Comments should also reference the construction general permit and permit number (IDR100000).

Michael Snider
Surface & Wastewater Division
1410 N. Hilton St.
Boise, ID  83706
michael.snider@deq.idaho.gov

Please submit requests for a public meeting electronically on DEQ’s website, by mail, or by email to Lori Flook.

Lori Flook
Surface & Wastewater Division
1410 N. Hilton St.
Boise, ID  83706
Lori.Flook@deq.idaho.gov

Related Documents

Draft permit
Draft fact sheet

September 23, 2021

BOISE — The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) is recognizing Alta Forest Products LLC, J&M Sanitation, Republic Services, and Glanbia Foods as 2021 Pollution Prevention Champions for their efforts to reduce the generation of pollution in Idaho.

Each applicant demonstrated how they incorporated pollution prevention strategies into daily operations, including reducing water and energy consumption, decreasing the use of acids and chlorine disinfectants, and reusing materials and products.

The announcement comes during the celebration of Pollution Prevention Week in Idaho, as proclaimed by Governor Brad Little, and during the 30th anniversary of the passage of the Pollution Prevention Act in which Congress identified prevention as the preferred method for reducing waste and pollution.

For more information on how to incorporate pollution prevention in your business, visit http://www.deq.idaho.gov/pollution-prevention/.

Award Summaries

Alta Forest Products— Alta Forest Products is the world’s largest producer of wooden fence boards. The company’s Naples, Idaho, facility has adopted many pollution prevention strategies, including a rigorous approach to reducing energy use, deploying a zero-waste policy that focusses on reducing wood waste and reusing wood waste products, retaining stormwater on-site to protect two local creeks, and improving milling processes to minimize hazardous compounds generated during mill maintenance.

“Alta Forest Products shows how the timber industry in Idaho can lead the way in achieving sustainability and reducing waste, continuing a proud tradition in the wood products industry that is foundational to Idaho’s economy and culture,” observed Ben Jarvis, DEQ’s pollution prevention coordinator.

To learn more about Alta Forest Products, visit their website at https://www.altafp.com/.

J&M Sanitation — J&M Sanitation is being recognized as a Pollution Prevention Champion for replacing two diesel trucks with two fully electric Class 8 Automated Side Loader garbage trucks on its Kuna residential collection routes. The company has reduced its air emissions by 75% and set a future goal of eliminating the company’s air emissions entirely. The deployment of these trucks is particularly impactful due to the significant renewable and low-carbon electricity generation used to recharge the truck batteries.

“J&M Sanitation is showing Idaho that the electrification of transportation is not a distant dream but a current and effective reality, even for the most rigorous and demanding jobs. Residents of the Treasure Valley will be pleased to be reaping the pollution prevention benefits of these trucks for years to come,” noted Jarvis.

The garbage trucks serve 800 homes in Kuna every day while lifting and transporting 18 tons of waste with nearly 20% of the battery charge remaining. Connect with J&M Sanitation on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/category/Waste-Management-Company/JM-Sanitation-Inc-586400404879654/.

Republic Services – Republic Services provides trash, recycling, and composting pickup service to residents and businesses throughout the Boise metro area. Previously recognized in 2011 for its deployment of natural gas-fueled garbage trucks, Republic Services is once again leading the way to cleaner air in the Treasure Valley by adopting a rigorous approach to sustainability and pollution prevention. Among its initiatives include the continued reliance on a primarily natural gas-fueled truck fleet, which has over 20% lower carbon intensity than conventional diesel-fueled trucks.

“Republic Services is committed to strengthening its relationship with the residents of the Treasure Valley by continuously improving its service and reducing the environmental impact of its operations. The company has been a perennial leader in demonstrating the value of conservation and pollution prevention and why it not only benefits its customers but is a financially sustainable business strategy as well,” stated Jarvis.

To learn more about Republic Services, visit their website: http://local.republicservices.com/site/idaho.

Glanbia Foods — Glanbia Foods is a manufacturer of dairy and whey-based products and is the number one producer of American-style cheddar cheese, the number one global producer of whey-based nutritional solutions, and the second-largest global producer of premixes. Their Gooding, Idaho, facility has implemented several pollution prevention measures that have allowed the company to reduce waste and resource intensity for its cleaning operations.

“Food processing is one of the most significant cornerstones of Idaho’s economy and Glanbia is demonstrating that it can be done more efficiently, with less waste and less impact on the environment. We are so happy to be able to celebrate the wonderful pollution prevention accomplishments in food processing, and hope that Glanbia’s leadership will spill over to other companies inside and outside of Idaho,” said Jarvis.

Glanbia’s most significant improvements have been the “clean-in-place” system at the company’s Gooding facility. Process improvements helped save 10 million gallons of water per year and reduced the use of cleaning acid by 40%, chlorine by 21%, and nitric acid by 13%. To learn more about Glanbia, visit their website at https://www.glanbia.com/.

Staff Contact

Ben Jarvis
Pollution Prevention & Continuous Improvement Lead
ben.jarvis@deq.idaho.gov

September 22, 2021

BOISE—The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) is introducing a new mobile app, AIR Idaho, to provide forecasted and current air quality information to help protect your health during poor air quality episodes.

The AIR Idaho app features air quality information relative to your location as well as an interactive real-time map that displays data from over 30 monitoring stations across the state. It also provides a three-day forecast detailing whether the air quality is expected to deteriorate and if there are times when air quality is expected to be better.

“This mobile app puts air quality information at your fingertips so you can make decisions to protect your health,” said Tiffany Floyd, DEQ’s Air Quality Division Administrator.

The app also features real-time information related open burning restrictions, a list of regional and statewide air quality resources, tips to stay safe during a smoke or inversion event, and information on how you can help protect our air.

Users can download the app for free at the App Store for iPhone or Google Play and select a location to receive information for a specific area. Enable notifications to receive information on local air quality advisories and burn restrictions. Use your phone’s location services to receive information for your area; or select a default county if you do not use your phone’s location.

To submit questions or feedback concerning the app, email aqmobileapp@deq.idaho.gov.

Media Contact

Mary Anderson
Air Quality Planning Bureau Chief
Mary.Anderson@deq.idaho.gov

September 22, 2021

TROY – The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) seeks comment on a draft Idaho Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (IPDES) permit for the city of Troy’s wastewater treatment plant (WWTP).

The city applied for a wastewater discharge permit for its wastewater treatment facility, located at 4008 Highway 8, in Troy, Idaho.

The draft permit would authorize the discharge of treated municipal wastewater year round to West Fork Little Bear Creek for the five years from the effective date. The permit identifies the pollutants of concern and the required limits for each pollutant or parameter, and monitoring and reporting requirements necessary to ensure compliance with the permit and protect human health and the environment.

Written comments on the draft permit and fact sheet will be accepted through October 22 at 5 p.m. MDT. The draft permit and fact sheet are available for public review at DEQ’s state office (1410 N. Hilton St.), DEQ’s Lewiston Regional Office (1118 F Street, Lewiston, ID, 83501), and on DEQ’s website. A public meeting may be held, if requested in writing, by October 6, 2021.

Comments and questions regarding this process should be directed to Jonathan Drygas, or on DEQ’s Public Comment Opportunities page. Comments should address water quality considerations and include supporting materials where available. Comments should also reference the city of Troy’s WWTP and permit number (ID0023604).

Jonathan Drygas
Surface & Wastewater Division
1410 N. Hilton St.
Boise, ID  83706
jonathan.drygas@deq.idaho.gov

Please submit requests for a public meeting electronically on DEQ’s website, by mail, or email to Lori Flook.

Lori Flook
Surface & Wastewater Division
1410 N. Hilton St.
Boise, ID  83706
Lori.Flook@deq.idaho.gov

Related Documents

Draft permit
Draft fact sheet

September 20, 2021

TWIN FALLS — The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) is seeking a municipal representative to serve as a voting member on the Middle Snake Watershed Advisory Group (WAG).

The WAG is a group of citizens from a diverse set of interests dedicated to the successful restoration and protection of the Middle Snake River between Milner Dam and King Hill. This area includes drainage from Rock Creek, Cedar Draw, Depp Creek, Mud Creek, Salmon Falls Creek, Clover Creek, and other smaller drainages. The Middle Snake WAG covers Jerome, Gooding, and Twin Falls counties and seeks to have representation from these areas.

Key responsibilities include:

• Advise DEQ on the development of water quality improvement plans known as Total Maximum Daily Loads (TMDLs) for streams, lakes, and rivers with degraded water quality conditions within the watershed
• Help identify contributing pollution sources in the watershed
• Recommend specific actions needed to effectively control sources of pollution to the waterbodies
• Help develop and implement a plan to meet water quality targets identified in the TMDLs

The Middle Snake WAG meets monthly and members are asked to serve at least two-year terms. Anyone interested in serving on the WAG as a municipal representative should contact Sean Woodhead in DEQ’s Twin Falls Regional Office by October 20, 2021, at 5 p.m. MDT.

The next WAG meeting is scheduled for October 5, 2021, at 2 p.m. at DEQ’s Twin Falls Regional Office (650 Addison Avenue W Suite 110, Twin Falls, ID).

Staff Contact
Sean Woodhead
Surface Water Quality Manager
Twin Falls Regional Office
sean.woodhead@deq.idaho.gov

September 20, 2021

TWIN FALLS — The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) is accepting applications for the Twin Falls Woodstove Changeout Program. 

The changeout program provides rebates for homeowners to replace older, more polluting stoves with cleaner-burning EPA-certified woodstoves, inserts, pellet stoves, or natural gas or propane units.

The program is now available to homeowners living within Twin Falls County. To qualify, applicants must be the legal owner of the home or rental property and currently operate a non-EPA-certified wood-burning appliance or an EPA-certified wood or pellet appliance manufactured at least 20 years ago.

Applicants will work with a participating vendor to purchase and install a new stove and remove the old unit.  

Twin Falls County residents can apply on DEQ’s Woodstove Funding Resources page. Applications can be mailed upon request. Applications will be accepted as funding is available and processed in the order received. Funding is limited and not guaranteed. Contact Heidi Orr (Heidi.orr@deq.idaho.gov) for more information.

September 17, 2021

BOISE —The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) is seeking project proposals that enhance or support innovative waste reduction or prevention.

A total of $220,000 will be made available to support selected projects for two years, starting January 1, 2022.

The funding is made possible through a grant from the U.S. Protection Agency’s Sustainable Materials Management Program, which promotes using and reusing materials more productively over their entire lifecycle.

Previously, Sustainable Materials Management grant funds have supported projects that increase the recycling and reuse rate of construction and demolition waste, reduce food waste, increase rural recycling rates, and encourage yard waste composting. Particular emphasis for this grant will be placed on projects that seek to reuse materials or divert them from the landfill while demonstrating long term financial sustainability.

More information on eligibility, project descriptions, and proposal submissions may be found on DEQ’s Vendor Opportunities page.

Staff Contact

Ben Jarvis
Pollution Prevention & Continuous Improvement Lead
Ben.Jarvis@deq.idaho.gov

September 13, 2021

BOISE – The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) seeks comment on a draft Idaho Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (IPDES) permit for the Mason Creek Activated Wetland Pilot Project.

The Idaho Wildlife and Water Quality Group applied for a wastewater discharge permit for its wastewater treatment facility, located at 1904 Mason Creek Road in Caldwell, Idaho.

The proposed permit would authorize the discharge of treated industrial wastewater January 1 to December 31 for five years. The permit identifies the pollutants of concern and the required limits for each pollutant or parameter, and monitoring and reporting requirements necessary to ensure compliance with the permit and protect human health and the environment.

Written comments on the draft permit and fact sheet will be accepted through Wednesday, October 13, 2021, at 5 p.m. MDT. The draft permit and fact sheet are available for public review at DEQ’s state office (1410 N. Hilton St.), DEQ’s Boise Regional Office (1445 N. Orchard, Boise, Idaho), and on DEQ’s website. A public meeting may be held, if requested in writing, by September 21, 2021.

Comments and questions regarding this process should be directed to Rakael Pope, or at on DEQ’s Public Comment Opportunities page. Comments should address water quality considerations and include supporting materials where available. Comments should also reference the Mason Creek Activated Wetland Pilot Project and permit number ID0030031.

Rakael Pope

Idaho Department of Environmental Quality
Surface & Wastewater Division
1410 N. Hilton St.
Boise, ID  83706
Email: Rakael.Pope@deq.idaho.gov

Please submit requests for a public meeting electronically on DEQ’s website, by mail, or email to Lori Flook.

Lori Flook
Surface & Wastewater Division
1410 N. Hilton St.
Boise, ID  83706
Email: Lori.Flook@deq.idaho.gov

Related Documents
Draft Permit
Draft Fact Sheet
Application

September 3, 2021

VALLEY COUNTY — The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) is urging caution after national lab tests revealed the presence of cyanotoxins in material in the lakebed of North Beach.

DEQ sampled three sites after a dog fell ill after swimming in Payette Lake. The sites included the western edge of North Beach, a northwestern portion of the lake, and a section between Brown Park and Mile High Marina.

Preliminary results, which were shared with the public on August 27, 2021, indicated normal levels of cyanobacteria in the lake at all three locations. Final lab results, which DEQ received on September 2, 2021, did not reveal toxins in the water at any of the three sampled locations.

However, test results indicated that the North Beach benthic cyanobacteria—also known as bottom-dwelling cyanobacteria—contain low levels of cyanotoxins but may still cause illness if directly consumed. Cyanotoxins produced by benthic-cyanobacteria are not typically identified using standard lab tests.

The North Beach area is shallow and serves as the North Fork Payette River delta. The warmer-than-usual conditions can cause normal levels of cyanobacteria to grow and produce toxins.

Two of the toxins that were identified are relatively new to science and are not well understood. Since the toxins are thought to be contained within the cyanobacteria cells, not the water column, the levels are not high enough to issue a health advisory but the public should use caution when recreating in the North Beach area. Dogs that tend to ingest or chew on things are particularly at risk of toxin exposure. Please be aware of what your animals may come into contact with and do not let them eat things you didn’t provide. All lakes have a natural microbial community, including Giardia and Cryptosporidium, that may cause illness and all raw water should be filtered or purified before drinking.

Payette Lake continues to have high water quality and the benthic cyanobacteria DEQ’s investigation found are evidence of this. Since benthic cyanobacteria live and grow on the bottom, the water has to be clear enough to let light pass through to the bottom of the lake. This isn’t possible with the planktonic HABs (i.e., blooms in the water column) most people think of since surface blooms block light from reaching the substrate.

While other lakes experience planktonic HABs, the cyanobacteria found growing on the bottom of the North Beach are not widespread and they were difficult to find.

Sampling and testing for cyanobacteria and the toxins they can produce is a growing challenge for neighboring states and states across the country. Bloom conditions and toxin concentrations can change quickly, which can complicate monitoring efforts. As this investigation revealed, a lot of the science and lab techniques involved with cyanotoxin monitoring are new. As the scientific community’s understanding of cyanobacteria and the toxins they produce expands, new, advanced detection and identification methodologies will be identified and adopted.

DEQ always recommends people use caution when recreating in and around water, especially during the hot summer months. DEQ will continue to communicate proactively and transparently to ensure the public has access to timely health-related information.

To learn more about benthic cyanobacteria, please visit the California My Water Quality FAQs For Toxic Algal Mats at https://mywaterquality.ca.gov/habs/resources/benthic_education.html.

To learn more about drinking water from lakes and rivers, visit https://www.cdc.gov/healthywater/drinking/travel/index.html and https://www.cdc.gov/healthywater/web-features.html.

To learn more about current health advisories or report a suspected bloom, visit https://www.deq.idaho.gov/water-quality/surface-water/cyanobacteria-harmful-algal-blooms/.

August 31, 2021

COEUR D’ALENE—Governor Little’s Coeur d’Alene Lake Advisory Committee announced Tuesday that the solicitation period for submitting nutrient-reduction proposals is now open.

The announcement came three days after the committee held its first meeting and less than two weeks after Governor Little directed $2 million towards projects that will reduce nutrient pollution in Coeur d’Alene Lake.

The committee will consider all projects submitted during the pre-application phase and will use the following criteria to prioritize proposals:

1. On-the-ground projects that reduce phosphorus loads to Coeur d’Alene Lake.
2. Projects located within Idaho and the watershed area draining to Coeur d’Alene Lake
3. Projects that reduce levels of phosphorus entering Coeur d’Alene Lake and its tributaries
4. Community support for the project

Priority will be given to proposals that are ready to implement quickly and that provide the largest reductions in phosphorus loading to Coeur d’Alene Lake. Federally-owned or managed lands are ineligible. Monitoring, education, and outreach may be a component of a project but not the primary focus.

Individuals interested in submitting a proposal are encouraged to submit a pre-application to Jamie Brunner by mail or email:

Jamie Brunner
2110 Ironwood Parkway
Coeur d’Alene, Idaho 83815
Jamie.brunner@deq.idaho.gov

The committee is scheduled to meet again October 20, 2021, to review project proposals.

Learn more about the Coeur d’Alene Lake Advisory Committee’s open solicitation process at https://www.deq.idaho.gov/coeur-dalene-lake-advisory-committee-notice-of-solicitation/.

August 27, 2021

COEUR D’ALENE — The Coeur d’Alene Lake Advisory Committee (CLAC) convened for the first time Thursday to examine strategies for reducing phosphorus pollution in North Idaho’s iconic water body.

The meeting came on the heels of Governor Little’s announcement last week, which directed $2 million to fund shovel-ready projects that will reduce the flow of nutrients into the lake. The committee will be tasked with prioritizing proposals submitted by the community and recommending projects for funding to the Idaho Department of Environmental Quality Director.

“My goal is to make sure that Idaho is a place that kids and grandkids want to stay and obviously the quality of the lake is a big part of that, not only the lake but its tributaries,” said Governor Brad Little in his opening remarks to the committee.

The first meeting provided an overview of the biological, chemical, and physical features of Coeur d’Alene Lake, the role that increased phosphorus has played in the declining health of the lake, and the different runoff mitigation practices that could help reduce the flow of pollutants.

DEQ estimates that approximately 180 tons of phosphorus enter the lake on average each year. While point source pollution from wastewater treatment plants and other systems is an issue in the Basin, these facilities are typically regulated and treat contaminated water through biological and chemical processes. A second important source of pollution is non-point sources, or pollution that flows across the land surface. When runoff flows over hard surfaces such as roadways, parking lots, and cleared land and into nearby water bodies, it carries pollutants with it.

“Small changes can have a large influence,” said Craig Cooper, DEQ’s limnologist, “when you make even small changes to how well water soaks into the ground, you increase the amount of runoff dramatically.”

Stormwater management techniques such as retention ponds, rain gardens, and other best management practices allow pollutants to percolate rather than discharge directly into surface waters and can greatly reduce the amount of phosphorus flowing into the lake.

“If you start honing in on individual sources, most will reduce relatively small amounts per year but there are a lot of them,” Cooper said.

The committee will hold an open solicitation to review project submissions later this year and DEQ staff will provide technical support to committee members and applicants, including calculating the estimated phosphorus reductions associated with each proposal.

Priority will be given to proposals that are ready to implement quickly and that provide the largest reductions in phosphorus loading to Coeur d’Alene Lake.

The next meeting is scheduled for October 20, 2021.

Staff Contact

Dan McCracken
Regional Administrator, Coeur d’Alene
Dan.McCracken@deq.idaho.gov

August 19, 2021

BOISE — The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) is expanding sampling and monitoring efforts across the state to enhance public preparedness and heighten bloom detection. 

Summer is the peak season for cyanobacteria harmful algal blooms—commonly referred to as HABs or blue-green algae—and DEQ is taking additional steps to ensure the public has access to timely information.

This includes:

• Increased monitoring and site visits as high-risk sites are identified
• Performing on-site rapid testing as needed for the most commonly encountered cyanotoxin
• Using satellite imagery to characterize and monitor existing and potential blooms
• Collaborating with EPA and CDC laboratories to advance cyanotoxin species detection
• Communicating regularly with the state’s public health districts, state toxicologists, and veterinarians
• Responding to inquiries and questions from the public
• Updating the Cyanobacteria Harmful Algal Bloom map with new monitoring data

While continuous monitoring and increased sampling will help expand DEQ’s bloom detection capabilities, it is also important to remember that risk still exists when recreating in and around water.

Toxins can be present at varying concentrations

Water bodies can have toxins even without a visible bloom and toxins can be present even at low concentrations. While toxin counts might not be high enough to trigger a health advisory, they can still pose a risk to people and animals.

Weather can impact bloom locations and toxin concentrations

HABs and toxin concentrations can change by the hour. Elements such as wind and rain can impact toxin concentrations, transport a HAB or mat within a water body, or push surface-level blooms down into the water column. This can complicate sampling efforts and increase the need for more frequent and robust monitoring.

Lab tests can detect common toxins, but not all toxins

Standard lab tests can detect the most common cyanotoxins, namely microcystin, cylindrospermopsin, and anatoxin-a, but other toxins might be present in the water. In response, DEQ is expanding testing and working with the nation’s top laboratories to account for additional toxins that have been linked to adverse health effects in other areas of the country.

Health advisories are issued at a certain threshold

DEQ and Idaho’s health districts share responsibility for HABs response efforts. DEQ is responsible for sampling and monitoring water bodies while the health districts determine whether or not a health advisory is necessary based on lab analysis.

There can be occasions where toxin levels might not be high enough to trigger a health advisory but still warrant caution from the public.

DEQ will continue to work with Idaho’s health officials, national experts, and the public to protect human health and ensure that Idahoans have access to the most up-to-date health information. To learn more about current health advisories, visit https://www.deq.idaho.gov/water-quality/surface-water/cyanobacteria-harmful-algal-blooms/.

The Idaho Department of Health and Welfare also maintains a Harmful Algal Blooms FAQ page, which contains educational material and general information about potential illnesses from recreational waters and drinking water.

October 26, 2020

BOISE — The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) today announced the award of a $45,000 drinking water construction assistance to the city of East Hope in Bonner County.

The funding will be used to clear screens, flush intake lines, and clean sediment structures.

The assistance from DEQ’s State Revolving Loan Fund, which is capitalized annually by grants from the US Environmental Protection Agency grants, provides this funding with no repayment obligation. The favorable loan terms represent a $61,047 savings to the community when compared to average costs for municipal general obligation debt issuances.

Staff Contact
MaryAnna Peavey
Grants & Loans Bureau Chief
MaryAnna.Peavey@deq.idaho.gov

June 28, 2021

BOISE — The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) today announced the award of a $4.32 million low-interest drinking water construction loan to the Panhandle Village Water System located in Kootenai County, Idaho

The funding will be used to replace the distribution system and install a storage tank, booster pumps, and a new well.

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, the Panhandle Village Water System 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 US Environmental Protection Agency, carries a simple 1.75% interest rate, is payable over 30 years, and has a $1,067,409 principal forgiveness. The favorable loan terms represent a $1,729,516 savings to the community when compared to average costs for municipal general obligation debt issuances.

Staff Contact
MaryAnna Peavey
Grants & Loans Bureau Chief
MaryAnna.Peavey@deq.idaho.gov

June 15, 2021

Coeur d’Alene — The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) seeks comment on a proposed plan to address elevated levels of lead and zinc in the Upper Spokane River Watershed.

The Spokane River in Idaho is in the Upper Spokane Watershed in Kootenai County. It flows into the Coeur d’Alene basin, which includes all tributaries to Coeur d’Alene Lake, including the Coeur d’Alene and St. Joe River watersheds.

Historic mining practices deposited metal-contaminated sediments throughout the system and, in 1994, the Spokane River from Coeur d’Alene Lake to the Idaho/Washington border was placed on Idaho’s 303(d) list of impaired waters.

Under the Clean Water Act, states are required to develop total maximum daily loads (TMDLs) when state water quality standards are not achieved. To comply with these requirements, DEQ prepared the draft Spokane River Water Quality Improvement Plan Total Maximum Daily Load, which establishes water quality targets and load capacities, estimates existing pollutant loads, and allocates responsibility for load reductions needed to return listed waters to a condition meeting Idaho’s water quality standards. It also identifies implementation strategies—including reasonable time frames, approach, responsible parties, and monitoring strategies—necessary to achieve load reductions and meet water quality standards.

The draft plan was developed in consultation with the Upper Spokane River Watershed Advisory Group, which advised DEQ to submit the proposal for public review.

The Spokane River Water Quality Improvement Plan Total Maximum Daily Load can be accessed on DEQ’s website, at DEQ’s State Office (1410 N. Hilton Street), and at DEQ’s Coeur d’Alene Regional Office (2110 Ironwood Parkway).

Written comments will be accepted through July 15, 2021, at 5 p.m. PDT. Submit comments electronically or by mail or email to:

Kristin Lowell
DEQ Coeur d’Alene Office
2110 Ironwood Parkway
Coeur d’Alene, ID 83814
Kristin.Lowell@deq.idaho.gov

Related Documents
Spokane River Water Quality Improvement Plan Total Maximum Daily Load

April 26, 2021

CANYON COUNTY — Vehicle emissions testing services have been fully restored in Canyon County, Idaho.

Services were previously unavailable due to a system outage affecting Canyon County and the city limits of Kuna. Motorists that have received a notice to test can visit a local emissions station for a test.

The emissions testing program is managed by an external contractor, Applus Technologies. For questions, contact Applus at (208) 461-1232 or visit https://idahovip.org/.

April 13, 2021

BOISE — The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) today announced the award of a $1.65 million low-interest drinking water construction loan to the city of Priest River in Bonner County.

The funding will be used to construct a new 440,000-gallon reservoir and install a new generator.

DEQ is authorized by state law to make loans to assist in the construction of public drinking water systems. The loan from DEQ’s State Revolving Loan Fund, which is capitalized annually by grants from the US Environmental Protection Agency, carries a simple 2.75% interest rate, is payable over 20 years.

Staff Contact

MaryAnna Peavey
Grants & Loans Bureau Chief
MaryAnna.Peavey@deq.idaho.gov

February 18, 2021

BOISE — The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) is seeking a contractor to perform stabilization work within the Triumph mine tunnel. This project will ensure safe access to the tunnel to evaluate and complete longer-term tunnel stabilization or closure work over the next few years.

The project is necessary because the original materials used to stabilize the tunnel in 2001 have exceeded the design life.  This has created unstable conditions within the tunnel resulting in collapse.  Although the tunnel conditions require repair, these conditions do not affect the stability of the permanent concrete plugs installed within the tunnel.  The two plugs remain in stable condition and continue to perform as expected.   

Failure to complete longer term stabilization work or permanently close the tunnel will result in continued collapse. This could create instability at the ground surface or cause the release of mine water and debris from behind the collapsed material.  The work planned over the next few years will more fully address these issues.

The Triumph Mine is an inactive silver, zinc, and lead mine located in Blaine County, Idaho. The mine operated from the late 1800s until the 1950s, leaving behind high levels of heavy metals in the soils and water. During active mining operations, the Triumph tunnel was used to transport ore from the mines to the mill located near the town of Triumph, Idaho.  Cleanup efforts at the Triumph site began in 1998.

In 2001, as part of the cleanup, the Triumph tunnel was re-opened and stabilized for approximately 1,300 feet to allow for construction of a 16-foot thick concrete plug within the tunnel.  A second, 17-foot thick concrete plug, located 235 feet within the tunnel, was constructed in 2016.  The plugs were designed to prevent the discharge of polluted mine water and debris from the mine.

Construction of the mine plugs reduced the amount of mine water discharge from 100 to 200 gallons per minute to just 7 to 10 gallons per minute today.  In addition, the reduced mine water flow significantly reduced levels of heavy metals discharging from the mine.     

Staff Contact

Don Carpenter
Senior Mining Scientist
Don.Carpenter@deq.idaho.gov

Tuesday, December 22, 2020

IDAHO FALLS — The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) is extending the public comment opportunity on a draft surface water Points of Compliance (POC) determination for Jervois Mining Ltd.

The public now has until February 1, 2021, at 5 p.m. MST to submit comments.

A POC is a location at which Idaho’s surface and ground water quality standards must be met. Mine operators are required to protect current and projected beneficial uses of ground water and meet water quality standards.

The draft surface water POC determination for Jervois Mining Ltd. is designed to prevent impacts to surface water while not impacting the Blackbird Mine remediation activities occurring within the same watershed. Changes from 2011 include additional constituents of concern, reduction in some ground wells, and updating the Upper Tolerance Limits with current data unavailable in 2011.

Submit written comments on DEQ’s website or by mail or email to:

Troy Saffle
DEQ Idaho Falls Regional Office
900 N. Skyline Drive, Suite B
Idaho Falls, ID 83402
Email: troy.saffle@deq.idaho.gov

Related Documents

Jervois Mining Idaho Cobalt Operations POC

Tuesday, December 15, 2020

RICHFIELD — The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) seeks comment on a draft Idaho Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (IPDES) permit for the city of Richfield Wastewater Treatment Facility (WWTF).

The city applied for a wastewater discharge permit for its public wastewater treatment facility, located at 1568 East Highway 26 in Richfield, Idaho.

The proposed permit would authorize the discharge of treated municipal wastewater November through April to the Little Wood River for five years. The permit identifies the pollutants of concern and lists the required limits for each pollutant or parameter and monitoring and reporting requirements necessary to ensure compliance with the permit and protect human health and the environment.

Written comments on the draft permit and fact sheet will be accepted through January 14, 2021, at 5 p.m. MST. The draft permit and fact sheet are available for public review at DEQ’s state office (1410 N. Hilton St.), DEQ’s Twin Falls Regional Office (650 Addison Avenue West, Suite 110), and on DEQ’s website. A public meeting may be held, if requested in writing, by December 29, 2020.

Comments and questions regarding this process should be directed to Karen Jackson or at DEQ’s Public Comments page. Comments should address water quality considerations and include supporting materials where available. Comments should also reference the facility name and permit number (ID0021211).

Karen Jackson
Idaho Department of Environmental Quality
Surface & Wastewater Division
1410 N. Hilton St.
Boise, ID 83706
Email: Karen.Jackson@deq.idaho.gov

Please submit request for public meeting electronically on DEQs website, by mail, or email to Lori Flook.

Lori Flook
Idaho Department of Environmental Quality
Surface & Wastewater Division
1410 N. Hilton St.
Boise, ID 83706
Email: Lori.Flook@deq.idaho.gov

Related Documents
Permit
Fact Sheet
Application

Wednesday, December 16, 2020

BOISE — The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) will hold a public informational meeting on a variance from a hazardous waste treatment storage or disposal facility permit for P. Kay Metal Lewiston, LLC.

A public hearing on the variance renewal will be held on January 20, 2021, at 5:30 p.m. PST at the Lewiston Community Center, located at1424 Main Street in Lewiston, Idaho. DEQ staff will be available to answer questions before the meeting starting at 5:00 p.m. PST.

Remote attendance is encouraged and the public can provide comments via telephone and video conference. To sign up for remote attendance via telephone and video conferencing, contact Daryl Sawyer by January 14, 2021.

P. Kay Metal is a lead recycling operation that produces lead and lead alloys in bar and wire form for a variety of uses. The variance would allow the facility to receive shipments of lead-bearing hazardous secondary materials (HSM) for reclamation from states that use a uniform hazardous waste manifest as a shipping document without obtaining a hazardous waste permit. The variance does not authorize receipt of hazardous waste, only HSM.

The variance and fact sheet are available at DEQ’s offices in Boise (1410 N. Hilton) and Lewiston (1118 F. St.) and on DEQ’s website.

Staff Contact

Daryl Sawyer
Hazardous Waste Permit Writer
(208) 373-0547
Daryl.Sawyer@deq.idaho.gov

Related Documents

• Public Notice
• Variance