State seeks water quality information

From Staff Reports

   The Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation, Division of Water Pollution Control, is updating its list of impaired waters in the state. Any citizens or agencies with actual stream data concerning water quality are urged to share this information by Jan. 15.
   "Less than half of Tennessee's streams met water quality standards when the Clean Water Act was implemented. Today, over two-thirds are safe for designated uses," said Paul Davis, director of TDEC Water Pollution Control.
   "We're pleased with this progress, but there's more work to be done. Many local organizations or individuals have sampled the streams, lakes and wetlands in their neighborhoods. We would like the opportunity to include their information in our assessments so that we can provide the most comprehensive look at Tennessee's water quality."
   Chemical or biological data, including dissolved oxygen levels, turbidity analyses, pH, etc., should be submitted to: Planning and Standards Section, Tennessee Division of Water Pollution Control, 7th Floor L&C Annex, 401 Church St., Nashville, Tenn. 37243-1534 or email to gdenton@mail.state.tn.us.
   All data will be considered, but TDEC will only use that which meets minimum quality standards. While TDEC is currently seeking data on water quality, general water pollution concerns can be registered at any time by calling 1-888-891-TDEC.
   Under the Clean Water Act, TDEC is required to make a list of Tennessee streams that don't meet water quality standards. The list is subject to review and approval by the Environmental Protection Agency.