(Spencer)– The Iowa Department of Natural Resources will hold a series of informational meetings next month regarding stream assessments and what they mean for cities and businesses that discharge wastewater into them.
One of those meetings is scheduled for Tuesday, February 2nd at 3:00 p.m. at the Spencer Public Library.
The assessments were conducted to determine what stream classification is most appropriate for a given stream or river. Findings of the studies could change the level of protection for some streams, which will affect how some cities and industries will need to treat effluent being released into them.
During the meetings, DNR staff will address concerns of cities and businesses that may face stricter permit requirements once the new water quality standards go into effect.
The meetings will include a short presentation by DNR staff, a question-and-answer session, and one-on-one consultations.
DNR officials say some facilities may need to make costly upgrades to their facilities to meet the new permit levels, which will further limit the amount of pollutants getting into streams and rivers.