Whats in the works

Here is what I have been told by a very good source. Once again let me say that this is just the direction that things are going but they still could change. The state monitoring of septic pumping/testing and well testing is not part of the new plan. Existing septic systems that are properly permitted and functioning are exempt from action. As we have been told before there will be three tiers, low risk, enhanced protection and nitrate or pathogen impacted waters.

The only tier that would affect existing systems would be tier three which is only in effect if we have known impacted waters. My opinion is that this is a good thing I like clean water and so does just about every one else. If we are known to be creating a problem we should do something about it.

The counties will have to collect data and prepare reports to the Regional Water Boards but they will get their data from collection methods that do not involve routine across the board testing. Data already exists from public water systems testing, new well testing and real estate transfer testing just to name a few of the sources. The counties will be able to have their own ordinances subject to approval from their Regional Water Boards.

Hopefully a Conceptual Approach will be outlined at public workshops in June. If they have one nearby you can bet that I will try to be there. If all goes well we might see a draft in summer with the process for public comments following.

To get on the SWRCB’s official mailing list for this subject go to their Email List Subscription Form, fill your email address and name into the boxes. Scroll down to AB 885 Onsite Regs and check the box next to it. Finally go back up to the top of the page and click the Subscribe button that is next to the boxes that you filled in.

I will close by saying that so far the direction is a good one but it can still change. For that reason we will continue to track things until the regulations are complete.

(Cross posted at The Weimarian)

Quick Note

I did have an opportunity to sit in on a meeting where we got an update as to what the new proposed regulations might look like. I will write something more detailed about it in the next day or two I need a bit of time to compile my notes. So far it looks as it did in the last post with a tiered system managed by the local county using a plan prepared by the local county and has to be approved by the Regional Water Boards. It is really important to bear in mind that at this stage all is still subject to change. We may see something out for public viewing in June. Check back for more details over the weekend.