The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is unveiling a new rule to restore federal-quality standards for waterways in the state of Washington, a move that will protect the state’s residents who eat fish caught locally.
According to a March 29 EPA news release, the agency is using the Clean Water Act to propose limits for a range of chemicals that could present a health risk. EPA Assistant Administrator for Water Radhika Fox noted that protecting health is tied to following science.
“This action exemplifies that connection by identifying science-based limits on harmful chemicals in Washington’s waters while advancing toward a clean water future, where people can safely eat the fish they catch,” Fox said in the news release.
Laura Watson, director of the Washington Department of Ecology, noted the EPA standards are aligned with more stringent standards that have been backed by Washington Tribes and residents of the state, according to the release. Moreover, Patrick DePoe, vice chairman of the Makah Tribal Council, noted it has been a long road to return to standards from 2016, but it is better late than never.
The news release also noted the EPA is accepting comments on the proposal for 60 days and will also hold two virtual public hearings. Information is available at EPA.gov.
