Customized Updates on Local Regulatory Enforcement & Compliance

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) announced a new web tool, called “ECHO Notify,” that empowers members of the public to stay informed about important environmental enforcement and compliance activities in their communities. Through ECHO Notify, users can sign up to receive weekly emails when new information is available within the selected geographic area, such Read More

USEPA Proposes Regulations to Plan for Hazardous Substance Discharges in Adverse Weather Conditions

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) recently proposed new requirements for certain facilities to plan for worst-case discharges of Clean Water Act (CWA) hazardous substances. A worst-case discharge is the largest foreseeable discharge in adverse weather conditions. Facilities subject to the proposed rule are required to prepare response plans for worst-case discharges, or threat of Read More

USEPA Proposes Guidance to Support Water Affordability & Clean Water Act Implementation

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) has issued its Proposed 2022 Clean Water Act (CWA) Financial Capability Assessment (FCA) Guidance for public comment. The proposed guidance outlines strategies for communities to support affordable utility rates while planning investments in water infrastructure that are essential for CWA implementation. The FCA Guidance is used by municipalities when Read More

Nationwide Monitoring to Gauge Extent of PFAS in Drinking Water

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) recently finalized the Fifth Unregulated Contaminant Monitoring Rule (UCMR5) to establish nationwide monitoring for 29 per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and lithium in drinking water. This action marks a significant milestone in the PFAS Strategic Roadmap developed by the USEPA. The USEPA uses the UCMR to monitor for priority Read More

USEPA Announces Intent to Strengthen Lead & Copper Regulations

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) will begin refining a new regulation to better protect communities from exposure to lead in drinking water. USEPA announced its intention to collaboratively work with local, State, and Federal partners to make rapid progress on the goal of removing 100% of lead service lines, with a focus on prioritizing communities Read More

USEPA & WEF Launch Program to Reduce Nutrients in Waterways

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) and Water Environment Federation (WEF) announced the launch of the NutrientSmart (NSmart) program to help reduce nutrient loadings in waterways and recognize the water utilities that are leaders and innovators. NSmart will begin as a pilot program and encourage the adoption of enhanced nutrient management practices by water utilities Read More