Suspended Solids Limits Proposed For Chesapeake Bay TMDL

EPA has announced plans to issue draft sediment limits as the next step in establishing the Watershed Implementation Plans (WIPs) for the Chesapeake Bay Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL). The six watershed states and the District of Columbia are expected to use sediment limits, along with those previously issued for nitrogen and phosphorus, as the basis for completing WIPs detailing how they will further divide these limits among pollution sources, and what practices will be implemented to meet water quality standards.

An EPA analysis indicates the likelihood that measures to control and reduce nutrient pollution as outlined in these WIPs will also significantly reduce sediment runoff, achieving the annual sediment limits.

The first drafts of the WIPs are due to EPA by September 1. On September 24, EPA plans to issue a draft TMDL and open a 45-day public comment period, including 18 public meetings. The final WIPs are due November 29, and EPA will establish the final Bay TMDL by December 31.

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