CHAPTER Env-Ws 1700 SURFACE WATER QUALITY REGULATIONS

CHAPTER Env-Wq 1700 SURFACE WATER QUALITY REGULATIONS

RSA 485-A:6, I, XI-c, XIV & XV and RSA 485-A:8, VI

Revision Note #1:

Document #7151, effective 12-10-99, readopted with amendments and renumbered the former Chapter Env-Ws 430 as Env-Ws 1700, containing Part Env-Ws 1701 through Part Env-Ws 1709. Document #7151 made extensive changes to the wording, format, structure, and numbering of rules in the former Chapter Env-Ws 430. Document #7151 superseded all prior filings for rules in the former Chapter Env-Ws 430. The prior filings for former Chapter Env-Ws 430 included the following documents:

#1881, eff 12-7-81

#2707, eff 5-15-84; EXPIRED 5-15-90

#4896, eff 8-3-90

#6301, INTERIM, eff 8-2-96

#6351, eff 10-5-96

Revision Note #2:

Document #9162, effective 5-21-08, readopted with amendments and renumbered former Chapter Env-Ws 1700 as Chapter Env-Wq 1700. Former Chapter Env-Ws 1700 contained Part Env-Ws 1701 through Part Env-Ws 1709. The redesignation from subtitle Env-Ws to subtitle Env-Wq was done pursuant to a rules reorganization plan for Department rules approved by the Director of the Office of Legislative Services on 9-7-05. Document #9162 replaced all prior filings for rules in the former Chapter Env-Ws 1700. The prior filings included the following documents:

Former Part Env-Ws 1701 through Part Env-Ws 1709:

#7151, eff 12-10-99

#9034, INTERIM, eff 12-10-07

Former Part Env-Ws 1710 Emergency Water Transfer:

#7669, EMERGENCY, eff 3-29-02, EXPIRED 9-25-02

REVISION NOTE #3:

Document #12042, effective 12-1-16, readopted with amendments Env-Wq 1700 and renumbered various rules in the former Env-Wq 1700. A cross-reference table of the prior rules compared to the rules in Document #12042 is in Appendix B. Document #12042 replaces all prior filings for rules in the former Chapter Env-Wq 1700. The prior filings for the former Chapter Env-Wq 1700 since Document #9162 includes the following documents:

#9984, eff 8-23-11, affecting Env-Wq 1708.12

#10726, eff 11-22-14, affecting Env-Wq 1701.03

The rules in the former Chapter Env-Wq 1700 which had last been filed under Document #9162 did not expire on 5-21-16 since they were extended pursuant to RSA 541-A:14-a until replaced by the rules in Document #12042, effective 12-1-16.

PART Env-Wq 1701 PURPOSE; APPLICABILITY; COMPLIANCE SCHEDULES; VARIANCES

Env-Wq 1701.01 Purpose. The purpose of these rules is to establish water quality standards for the state’s surface water uses as set forth in RSA 485-A:8, I, II-a, II, III, and V. These standards are intended to protect public health and welfare, enhance the quality of water and serve the purposes of the federal Clean Water Act, 33 U.S.C. 1251 et seq., and RSA 485-A. These standards provide for the protection and propagation of fish, shellfish, and wildlife, and provide for such uses as recreational activities in and on the surface waters, public water supplies, agricultural and industrial uses, and navigation in accord with RSA 485-A:8, I and II.

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25

Env-Wq 1701.02 Applicability. These rules shall apply to:

(a) All surface waters except:

(1) Artificial bodies of water for management of stormwater provided they are legally designed and constructed in accordance with all applicable permits and other legal requirements;

(2) Bodies of water that are exempt from permitting pursuant to RSA 482-A:3, IV(b); and

(3) Wastewater facilities designed and constructed to convey or treat sewage or waste, as defined in RSA 485-A:2, X and RSA 485-A:2, XVI respectively, and permitted in accordance with RSA 485-A:13; and

(b) Any person who:

(1) Causes any point or nonpoint source discharge to surface waters;

(2) Undertakes hydrologic modifications, such as dam construction or water withdrawals; or

(3) Undertakes any other activity that affects the beneficial uses or the water quality of surface waters.

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25

Env-Wq 1701.03 Compliance Schedules in NPDES Permits.

(a) A national pollutant discharge elimination system (NPDES) permit issued or renewed for a discharge to New Hampshire surface waters, as defined herein, shall not specify a schedule leading to compliance with New Hampshire or federal surface water quality standards, or both, unless:

(1) The permittee cannot comply with the permit limits or other requirements immediately upon issuance of the permit; and

(2) The compliance schedule is provided to afford the permittee adequate time to comply with one or more permit requirements or limitations that are:

a. New;

b. Newly interpreted; or

c. Revised water quality standards that became effective after issuance of the original discharge permit and after July 1, 1977.

(b) A compliance schedule established to meet any surface water quality standard that applies to the New Hampshire waters receiving the discharge shall:

(1) Include dates for specified tasks or activities leading to compliance;

(2) Include interim effluent limits; and

(3) Require compliance at the earliest practicable time.

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25

Env-Wq 1701.04 Water Quality Standards Variances. Water quality standards variances as defined in 40 CFR 131.3(o) shall be issued in accordance with 40 CFR § 131.14 and the commissioner’s rulemaking authority under RSA 485-A:6, I, XI-c, XIV and XV and RSA 485-A:8, VI.

Source. #14203, eff 2-26-25

PART Env-Wq 1702 DEFINITIONS

Env-Wq 1702.01 “7Q10” means "7Q10" as defined in RSA 485-A:2, XXIV, namely "the lowest average flow that occurs for 7 consecutive days on an annual basis with a recurrence interval of once in 10 years on average, expressed in terms of volume per time period.”

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25

Env-Wq 1702.02 “Antidegradation” means a provision of the water quality standards that maintains and protects existing water quality and uses.

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25 (formerly Env-Wq 1702.03)

Env-Wq 1702.03 “Assimilative capacity” means the chemical, physical, biological, and radiological alterations that can occur without causing violations of applicable water quality criteria or impairing any existing or designated uses.

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25 (formerly Env-Wq 1702.04)

Env-Wq 1702.04 “Benthic community” means the community of plants and animals that live on, over, or in the substrate of the surface water.

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25 (formerly Env-Wq 1702.05)

Env-Wq 1702.05 “Benthic deposit” means any sludge, sediment, or other organic or inorganic accumulations on the bottom of the surface water.

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25 (formerly Env-Wq 1702.06)

Env-Wq 1702.06 “Best management practices” means those practices that are determined, after problem assessment and examination of all alternative practices and technological, economic, and institutional considerations, to be the most effective practicable means of preventing or reducing the amount of pollution, including hydrologic modification, generated by point or nonpoint sources to a level compatible with water quality goals.

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25 (formerly Env-Wq 1702.07)

Env-Wq 1702.07 “Biological integrity” means the ability of an aquatic ecosystem to support and maintain a balanced, integrated, adaptive community of organisms having a species composition, diversity, and functional organization comparable to that of similar natural habitats of a region.

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25 (formerly Env-Wq 1702.08)

Env-Wq 1702.08 “Biota” means species of plants or animals occurring in surface waters.

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25 (formerly Env-Wq 1702.09)

Env-Wq 1702.09 “Chronic toxicity” means an adverse effect, such as reduced reproductive success or growth or poor survival of sensitive life stages, that occurs as a result of prolonged exposure to a toxic substance.

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25 (formerly Env-Wq 1702.10)

Env-Wq 1702.10 “Class A and B waters” means those surface waters that are legislatively classified as Class A or B waters pursuant to RSA 485-A:8, I, II, and III.

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25 (formerly Env-Wq 1702.11)

Env-Wq 1702.11 “Clean Water Act (CWA)” means the federal Clean Water Act, Pub. L. 92-500, as amended by Pub. L. 95-217, Pub. L. 95-576, Pub. L. 96-483, Pub. L. 97-117, Pub. L. 100-4, and 33 U.S.C. 1251 et seq.

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25 (formerly Env-Wq 1702.12)

Env-Wq 1702.12 “Community” means one or more populations co-occurring in surface waters.

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25 (formerly Env-Wq 1702.13)

Env-Wq 1702.13 “Criterion” means:

(a) A designated concentration of a pollutant;

(b) A narrative statement concerning that pollutant that when not exceeded, will protect an organism, a population, a community, or a prescribed water use; or

(c) A numeric value or narrative statement related to other characteristics of the surface waters, such as flow and biological community integrity.

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25 (formerly Env-Wq 1702.14)

Env-Wq 1702.14 “Cultural eutrophication” means the human-induced addition of wastes that contain nutrients to surface waters, resulting in excessive plant growth or a decrease in dissolved oxygen, or both.

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25 (formerly Env-Wq 1702.15)

Env-Wq 1702.15 “Department” means the department of environmental services.

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25 (formerly Env-Wq 1702.16)

Env-Wq 1702.16 “Designated uses” means those uses specified in water quality standards for each waterbody or segment whether or not such uses are presently occurring. The term includes the following:

(a) “Swimming and other recreation in and on the water”, meaning the surface water is suitable for swimming, wading, boating of all types, fishing, surfing, and similar activities;

(b) “Fish consumption”, meaning the surface water can support a population of fish free from toxicants and pathogens that could pose a human health risk to consumers;

(c) “Shellfish consumption”, meaning the tidal surface water can support a population of shellfish free from toxicants and pathogens that could pose a human health risk to consumers;

(d) “Aquatic life integrity”, meaning the surface water can support aquatic life, including a balanced, integrated, and adaptive community of organisms having a species composition, diversity, and functional organization comparable to that of similar natural habitats of the region;

(e) “Wildlife”, meaning the surface water can provide habitat capable of supporting any life stage or activity of undomesticated fauna on a regular or periodic basis; and

(f) “Potential drinking water supply”, meaning the surface water could be suitable for human intake and meet state and federal drinking water requirements after adequate treatment.

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25 (formerly Env-Wq 1702.17)

Env-Wq 1702.17 “Discharge” means:

(a) Additions, introductions, leakage, spillage, emissions, or flow to surface waters, either directly, or indirectly through the groundwater, whether done intentionally, unintentionally, negligently, or otherwise; or

(b) The placing of a pollutant in a location where the pollutant is likely to enter surface waters.

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25 (formerly Env-Wq 1702.18)

Env-Wq 1702.18 “Dissolved oxygen” means the oxygen dissolved as a gas in sewage, water, or other liquid expressed in milligrams per liter (mg/L), parts per million (ppm), or percent saturation.

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25 (formerly Env-Wq 1702.19)

Env-Wq 1702.19 “Effluent limitation(s)” means any restriction(s) imposed by the department pursuant to RSA 485-A on quantities, discharge rates, characteristics, or concentrations of pollutants, or any combination thereof, that are allowed to be discharged to surface waters.

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25 (formerly Env-Wq 1702.20)

Env-Wq 1702.20 “Epilimnion” means the upper, well-circulated warm layer of a thermally stratified lake, pond, impoundment, or reservoir.

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25 (formerly Env-Wq 1702.21)

Env-Wq 1702.21 “Existing uses” means those uses, other than assimilation or waste transport, that actually occurred in the waterbody on or after November 28, 1975, whether or not they are included in the water quality standards.

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25 (formerly Env-Wq 1702.22)

Env-Wq 1702.22 “High quality waters” means any surface water whose water quality is better than required by any aquatic life or human health water quality criteria contained in these rules or other criteria assigned to the surface water, or whose qualities and characteristics make the surface water critical to the propagation or survival of important living natural resources.

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25 (formerly Env-Wq 1702.23)

Env-Wq 1702.23 “Industrial waste” means “industrial waste” as defined in RSA 485-A:2, VI, as reprinted in Appendix C.

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25 (formerly Env-Wq 1702.24)

Env-Wq 1702.24 “Maintain and protect” means to preserve the existing and designated uses of surface waters.

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25 (formerly Env-Wq 1702.25)

Env-Wq 1702.25 “Mixing zone” means a defined area or volume of the surface water surrounding or adjacent to a discharge where the surface water, as a result of the discharge, might not meet all applicable water quality standards.

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25 (formerly Env-Wq 1702.26)

Env-Wq 1702.26 “Most sensitive use” means the use that is most susceptible to degradation by a specific pollutant, combination of pollutants, or activity, such as drinking, swimming, boating, fish and aquatic life propagation, fish consumption by higher level consumers including humans, or irrigation.

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25 (formerly Env-Wq 1702.27)

Env-Wq 1702.27 “Naturally-occurring conditions” means conditions that exist in the absence of human influences.

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25 (formerly Env-Wq 1702.28)

Env-Wq 1702.28 “Nephelometric turbidity unit (NTU)” means a standard used to measure the optical property that causes light to be scattered and absorbed rather than transmitted in straight lines through water, as measured by a nephelometer.

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25 (formerly Env-Wq 1702.29)

Env-Wq 1702.29 “Noncontact cooling water” means water used for cooling that does not come into direct contact with any raw material, intermediate product, waste product, or finished product and to which no pollutants, other than heat, have been added.

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25 (formerly Env-Wq 1702.30)

Env-Wq 1702.30 “Nonpoint source” means any source other than a point source.

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25 (formerly Env-Wq 1702.31)

Env-Wq 1702.31 “No observed effect concentration (NOEC)” means the highest measured continuous concentration, in percent, of an effluent at which no adverse effects are observed on the aquatic test organisms.

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25 (formerly Env-Wq 1702.32)

Env-Wq 1702.32 “Nuisance species” means any species of flora or fauna living in or near the water whose noxious characteristics or presence in sufficient number or mass prevent or interfere with a designated use of those surface waters.

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25 (formerly Env-Wq 1702.33)

Env-Wq 1702.33 “Other wastes” means “other wastes” as defined in RSA 485-A:2, VIII, as reprinted in Appendix C.

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25 (formerly Env-Wq 1702.34)

Env-Wq 1702.34 “Outstanding resource water (ORW)” means surface waters of exceptional recreational or ecological significance.

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25 (formerly Env-Wq 1702.35)

Env-Wq 1702.35 “pH” means a measure of the hydrogen ion concentration in a solution, expressed as the logarithm to the base 10, of the reciprocal of the hydrogen ion concentration in gram moles per liter.

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25 (formerly Env-Wq 1702.36)

Env-Wq 1702.36 “Point source” means a discernible, confined, and discrete conveyance from which pollutants are or might be discharged, excluding return flows from irrigated agriculture or agricultural stormwater runoff. The term includes, but is not limited to, a pipe, ditch, channel, tunnel, conduit, well, discrete fissure, container, rolling stock, concentrated animal feeding operation, or vessel or other floating craft.

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25 (formerly Env-Wq 1702.37)

Env-Wq 1702.37 “Pollutant” means “pollutant” as defined in 40 CFR 122.2, as reprinted in Appendix D.

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25 (formerly Env-Wq 1702.38)

Env-Wq 1702.38 “Pollution” means the man-made or man-induced alteration of the chemical, physical, biological, or radiological integrity of water.

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25 (formerly Env-Wq 1702.39)

Env-Wq 1702.39 “Population” means a group of individuals of one biological species co-occurring in time and space.

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25 (formerly Env-Wq 1702.40)

Env-Wq 1702.40 “Radionuclide” means a radioactive atomic nucleus specified by its atomic number, atomic mass, and energy state.

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25 (formerly Env-Wq 1702.42)

Env-Wq 1702.41 “Sewage” means “sewage” as defined in RSA 485-A:2, X, as reprinted in Appendix C.

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25 (formerly Env-Wq 1702.43)

Env-Wq 1702.42 “Surface waters” means “surface waters of the state” as defined in RSA 485-A:2, XIV, as reprinted in Appendix C, and waters of the United States as defined in 40 CFR 122.2.

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25 (formerly Env-Wq 1702.44)

Env-Wq 1702.43 “Tainting substance” means any material that can impart objectionable taste, odor, or color to the flesh of fish or other edible aquatic organisms.

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25 (formerly Env-Wq 1702.45)

Env-Wq 1702.44 “Tidal waters” means those portions of the Atlantic Ocean within the jurisdiction of the state, and all other surface waters subject to the rise and fall of the tide.

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25 (formerly Env-Wq 1702.46)

Env-Wq 1702.45 “Toxic unit chronic (TU_c)” means the reciprocal of the effluent dilution that causes no unacceptable effect to the test organisms by the end of the chronic exposure period, which can be calculated by dividing 100 by the chronic NOEC value.

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25 (formerly Env-Wq 1702.48)

Env-Wq 1702.46 “Waste” means “waste” as defined in RSA 485-A:2, XVI, as reprinted in Appendix C.

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25 (formerly Env-Wq 1702.49)

Env-Wq 1702.47 “Wastewater facilities” means “wastewater facilities” as defined in RSA 485-A:2, XIX, as reprinted in Appendix C, namely “the structures, equipment, and processes required to collect, convey, and treat domestic and industrial wastes, and dispose of the effluent and sludge.”

Source. #14203, eff 2-26-25

Env-Wq 1702.48 “Water quality standards” means the combination of designated uses of surface waters, the water quality criteria for such surface waters based upon such uses, and antidegradation requirements.

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25 (formerly Env-Wq 1702.50)

Env-Wq 1702.49 “Wetlands” means “wetlands” as defined in RSA 482-A:2, X, as reprinted in Appendix C. Wetlands include, but are not limited to, swamps, marshes, bogs, and similar areas as delineated in accordance with Env-Wt 100 et seq.

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25 (formerly Env-Wq 1702.51)

Env-Wq 1702.50 “Zone of passage” means an area bordering a mixing zone that is free from pollutants and allows for unobstructed movement of aquatic organisms.

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25 (formerly Env-Wq 1702.52)

PART Env-Wq 1703 WATER QUALITY STANDARDS

Env-Wq 1703.01 Water Use Classifications; Designated Uses.

(a) All surface waters shall be classified as provided in RSA 485-A:8, based on the standards established therein for class A and class B waters. Each classification shall identify the most sensitive use it is intended to protect.

(b) All surface waters shall be restored to meet the water quality criteria for their designated classification including existing and designated uses, and to maintain the chemical, physical, and biological integrity of surface waters.

(c) All surface waters shall provide, wherever attainable, for the protection and propagation of fish, shellfish, and wildlife, and for recreation in and on the surface waters.

(d) Unless alterations in water quantity, including but not limited to flow rate, volume, area, or depth are caused by naturally-occurring conditions, surface water quantity shall be maintained at levels that protect existing uses and designated uses.

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25

Env-Wq 1703.02 Wetlands Criteria.

(a) Subject to (b), below, wetlands shall be subject to the criteria listed in this part.

(b) Wherever the naturally-occurring conditions of the wetlands are different from the criteria listed in these rules, the naturally-occurring conditions shall be the applicable water quality criteria.

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25

Env-Wq 1703.03 General Water Quality Criteria.

(a) The presence of pollutants in the surface waters shall not justify further introduction of pollutants from point or nonpoint sources, alone or in any combination.

(b) Once classified, state surface waters shall retain their legislated classification until such time as they are reclassified in accordance with RSA 485-A:10, even if they fail to meet any or all of the general, class-specific, or toxic criteria contained in this part.

(1) All surface waters shall be free from substances in kind or quantity that:

a. Settle to form harmful benthic deposits;

b. Float as foam, debris, scum, or other visible substances;

c. Produce odor, color, taste, or turbidity that is not naturally occurring and would render the surface water unsuitable for its designated uses;

d. Result in the dominance of nuisance species; or

e. Interfere with recreational activities;

(2) The level of radioactive materials in all surface waters shall not be in concentrations or combinations that would:

a. Be harmful to human, animal, or aquatic life or the most sensitive designated use;

b. Result in radionuclides in aquatic life exceeding the recommended limits for consumption by humans; or

c. Exceed limits specified in EPA’s national drinking water regulations or subtitle Env-Dw, whichever are more stringent; and

(3) Tainting substances shall not be present in concentrations that individually or in combination are detectable by taste and odor tests performed on the edible portions of aquatic organisms.

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25

Env-Wq 1703.04 Class-Specific Criteria.

(a) In addition to the general water quality criteria specified in Env-Wq 1703.03, the class-specific criteria specified in Env-Wq 1703.05 through Env-Wq 1703.33 shall apply to all surface waters.

(b) The surface waters in each classification shall satisfy all criteria applicable to the lower classification(s).

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25

Env-Wq 1703.05 Combined Sewer Overflows.

(a) An applicant for a surface water discharge permit under RSA 485-A:13 who asserts that class B criteria cannot reasonably be met at all times in the receiving water due to combined sewer overflows shall conduct a use attainability analysis (UAA) in accordance with 40 CFR §131.10 and submit the UAA to the department.

(b) If, after public notice and comment, the department determines, based on the UAA and any public comments received, that the UAA supports the establishment of less stringent criteria, the department shall recommend a change in the classification of the waterbody to the legislature.

(c) Exceedances of class B criteria and uses due to combined sewer overflows shall be limited to those identified in the long-term combined sewer overflow plan developed in accordance with “EPA Combined Sewer Overflow (CSO) Control Policy”, EPA 830-B-94-001, dated April, 1994, available as noted in Appendix B, after full implementation of the control measures.

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25

Env-Wq 1703.06 Bacteria.

(a) Uses and criteria associated with bacteria shall be as set forth in RSA 485-A:8, I, II, and V, as summarized in Appendix E.

(b) Subject to (d), below, the bacteria criteria shall be applied at the end of a wastewater facility’s discharge pipe.

(c) Tidal waters shall meet the national shellfish sanitation program, guide for the control of molluscan shellfish within the shellfish beds as specified in RSA 485-A:8, V.

(d) For any combined sewer overflow that discharges into non-tidal surface waters, a bacteria criteria of 1,000 Escherichia coli per 100 milliliters shall apply at the end of the combined sewer overflow’s discharge pipe.

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25

Env-Wq 1703.07 Dissolved Oxygen.

(a) Class A waters shall have a dissolved oxygen content of at least 75% saturation, based on a daily average, and an instantaneous minimum of at least 6 mg/L at any place or time except as naturally occurs.

(b) Except as naturally occurs and subject to (c) through (e), below, class B waters shall have a dissolved oxygen content of:

(1) At least 75% of saturation, based on a daily average; and

(2) An instantaneous minimum dissolved oxygen concentration of at least 5 mg/L.

(c) In areas identified by the New Hampshire fish and game department (NHF&G) as cold water fish spawning areas of species whose early life stages are buried in the gravel on the bed of the surface water, the 7 day mean dissolved oxygen concentration shall be at least 9.5 mg/L and the instantaneous minimum dissolved oxygen concentration shall be at least 8 mg/L for the period from October 1 of one year to May 14 of the next year, provided that the time period shall be extended to June 30 for a specific discharge to a specific waterbody if modeling done in consultation with the NHF&G determines the extended period is necessary to protect spring spawners or late hatches of fall spawners, or both.

(d) Unless naturally occurring or subject to (a), above, surface waters within the top 25 percent of depth of thermally unstratified lakes, ponds, impoundments, and reservoirs or within the epilimnion shall contain a dissolved oxygen content of at least 75 percent saturation, based on a daily average and an instantaneous minimum dissolved oxygen content of at least 5 mg/L. Unless naturally occurring, the dissolved oxygen content below those depths shall be consistent with that necessary to maintain and protect existing and designated uses.

(e) As specified in RSA 485-A:8, III, waters in a temporary partial use area established under RSA 485-A:8, II as a surface water that is receiving a combined sewer overflow discharge shall contain not less than 5 parts per million of dissolved oxygen for the duration of the discharge and up to 3 days following cessation of the discharge.

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25

Env-Wq 1703.08 Benthic Deposits.

(a) Class A waters shall contain no benthic deposits, unless naturally occurring.

(b) Class B waters shall contain no benthic deposits that have a detrimental impact on the benthic community, unless naturally occurring.

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25

Env-Wq 1703.09 Oil and Grease.

(a) Class A waters shall contain no oil or grease, unless naturally occurring.

(b) Class B waters shall contain no oil or grease in such concentrations that would impair any existing or designated uses.

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25

Env-Wq 1703.10 Color.

(a) Class A waters shall contain no color, unless naturally occurring.

(b) Class B waters shall contain no color in such concentrations that would impair any existing or designated uses, unless naturally occurring.

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25

Env-Wq 1703.11 Turbidity.

(a) Class A waters shall contain no turbidity, unless naturally occurring.

(b) Class B waters shall not exceed naturally occurring conditions by more than 10 NTUs.

(c) Turbidity in waters identified in RSA 485-A:8, III shall comply with the applicable long-term combined sewer overflow plan prepared in accordance with Env-Wq 1703.05(c).

(d) For purposes of state enforcement actions, if a discharge causes or contributes to an increase in turbidity of 10 NTUs or more above the turbidity of the receiving water upstream of the discharge or otherwise outside of the visible discharge, a violation of the turbidity standard shall be deemed to have occurred.

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25

Env-Wq 1703.12 Slicks, Odors, and Surface Floating Solids.

(a) Class A waters shall contain no slicks, odors, or surface floating solids unless naturally occurring.

(b) Class B waters shall contain no slicks, odors, or surface floating solids that would impair any existing or designated use, unless naturally occurring.

(c) Slicks, odors, and surface floating solids in waters in temporary partial use areas shall comply with the applicable long-term combined sewer overflow plan prepared in accordance with Env-Wq 1703.05(c).

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25

Env-Wq 1703.13 Temperature.

(a) There shall be no change in temperature in class A waters, unless naturally occurring.

(b) Temperature in class B waters shall be as specified in RSA 485-A:8, II and VIII.

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25

Env-Wq 1703.14 Nutrients.

(a) Class A waters shall contain no phosphorus or nitrogen unless naturally occurring.

(b) Class B waters shall contain no phosphorus or nitrogen in such concentrations that would impair any existing or designated uses, unless naturally occurring.

(c) Existing discharges containing phosphorus or nitrogen, or both, which encourage cultural eutrophication shall be treated to remove the nutrient(s) to ensure attainment and maintenance of water quality standards.

(d) There shall be no new or increased discharge of phosphorus into lakes or ponds.

(e) There shall be no new or increased discharge containing phosphorus or nitrogen to tributaries of lakes or ponds that would contribute to cultural eutrophication or growth of weeds or algae in such lakes and ponds.

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25

Env-Wq 1703.15 Radionuclide Contaminants. Waters within 20 miles upstream of any active surface water intake for a public water system as defined in RSA 485:1-a, XV shall not exceed the drinking water maximum contaminant level (MCL) for radionuclides contaminants, as specified in Env-Dw 703.01.

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16

New. #14203, eff 2-26-25

Env-Wq 1703.16 Beta Particle and Photon Radioactivity from Man-Made Sources. Waters within 20 miles upstream of any active surface water intake for a public water system as defined in RSA 485:1-a, XV shall not exceed the annual dose equivalent for beta particle and photon radioactivity, as specified in Env-Dw 703.03.

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16

New. #14203, eff 2-26-25

Env-Wq 1703.17 Cyanotoxins.

(a) The recreational human health criteria to protect swimming and other recreation in and on the water from excessive microcystin and cylindrospermopsin toxins shall be as follows:

(1) Microcystin shall not exceed 8 μg/L in 3 or more 10-day periods during a calendar 12-month period; or

(2) Cylindrospermopsin shall not exceed 15 μg/L in 3 or more 10-day periods during a calendar 12-month period.

(b) The values in (a)(1) and (2) shall be concentrations not to be exceeded more than once in 5-years.

(c) Other cyanotoxins shall be evaluated based on known health risks and potential for cyanotoxin production and accumulation.

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16

New. #14203, eff 2-26-25

Env-Wq 1703.18 pH.

(a) The pH of class A waters shall be as naturally occurs.

(b) As specified in RSA 485-A:8, II, the pH of class B waters shall be 6.5 to 8.0 unless due to natural causes.

(c) As specified in RSA 485-A:8, III, the pH of waters in temporary partial use areas shall be 6.0 to 9.0 unless due to natural causes.

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25

Env-Wq 1703.19 Biological and Aquatic Community Integrity.

(a) All surface waters shall support and maintain a balanced, integrated, and adaptive community of organisms having a species composition, diversity, and functional organization comparable to that of similar natural habitats of a region.

(b) Differences from naturally-occurring conditions shall be limited to non-detrimental differences in community structure and function.

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25

Env-Wq 1703.20 Target Risk for Human Health Criteria.

(a) Except as provided in (c) below, the department shall use a target risk of one in 1,000,000 when determining human health criteria.

(b) When establishing an alternative target risk the department shall not allow more risk than allowed by one in 100,000.

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25

Env-Wq 1703.21 Water Quality Criteria for Toxic Substances.

(a) Unless naturally occurring or allowed under Env-Wq 1707, all surface waters shall be free from toxic substances or chemical constituents in concentrations or combinations that:

(1) Injure or are inimical to plants, animals, humans, or aquatic life; or

(2) Persist in the environment or accumulate in aquatic organisms to levels that result in harmful concentrations in:

a. Edible portions of fish, shellfish, or other aquatic life; or

b. Wildlife that might consume aquatic life.

(b) Unless allowed under Env-Wq 1707 or naturally occurring, concentrations of toxic substances in all surface waters shall not exceed the recommended safe exposure levels of the most sensitive surface water use shown in Table 1703-1, subject to the notes in Env-Wq 1703.22, as follows:

Table 1703-01: Water Quality Criteria for Toxic Substances

CAS Number	Chemical Name	Protection of Aquatic Life Concentration in micrograms per liter (μg/L)^v				Protection of Human Health Units per Liter
CAS Number	Chemical Name	Fresh Acute Criteria	Fresh Chronic Criteria	Marine Acute Criteria	Marine Chronic Criteria	Water & Fish Ingestion	Fish Consumption Only
83-32-9	Acenaphthene	1,700	520	970	710	20 μg ^j	20 μg ^j
107-02-8	Acrolein	3	3	55	--	3 μg	400 μg
107-13-1	Acrylonitrile	7,550	2,600	--	--	0.061 μg ^c	7 μg ^c
15972-60-8	Alachlor (Lasso)	--	--	--	--	Note l	--
116-06-3	Aldicarb (Temik)	--	--	--	--	Note l	--
1646-87-3	Aldicarb sulfoxide	--	--	--	--	Note l	--
1646-88-4	Aldicarb sulfone(aldoxycarb)	--	--	--	--	Note l	--
309-00-2	Aldrin	3.0 ^k	--	1.3 ^k	--	0.0007 ng ^c	0.0007 ng ^c
N/A	Alkalinity	--	20,000 ^u	--	--	--	--
7429-90-5	Aluminum	750 ^s	87^s	--	--	--	--
7664-41-7	Ammonia ^a	Note a	Note a	Note a	Note a	--	--
62-53-3	Aniline	28	14	77	37	--	--
120-12-7	Anthracene	(see Polynuclear Aromatic Hydrocarbons)				300 μg	400 μg
7440-36-0	Antimony	9,000	1,600	--	--	5.6 μg	640 μg
7440-38-2	Arsenic	340 ^{d, i}	150 ^{d, i}	69 ^{d, i}	36 ^{d, i}	0.19/0.18 μg ^{b, c, w}	4.1/2.2 μg ^{b, c, w}
1332-21-4	Asbestos	--	--	--	--	7,000,000 fibres ^c	--
1912-24-9	Atrazine (Atranex, Crisazine)	--	--	--	--	Note l	--
7440-39-3	Barium	--	--	--	--	1.0 mg	--
71-43-2	Benzene	5,300	--	5,100	700	2.1 μg ^c	58 μg ^c
92-87-5	Benzidine	2,500	--	--	--	0.14 ng ^c	11 ng ^c
56-55-3	Benzo(a) Anthracene	(see Polynuclear Aromatic Hydrocarbons)				0.0012 μg ^c	0.0013 μg ^c
50-32-8	Benzo(a) Pyrene	(see Polynuclear Aromatic Hydrocarbons)				0.00012 μg ^c	0.00013 μg ^c
205-99-2	Benzo(b) Fluoranthene	(see Polynuclear Aromatic Hydrocarbons)				0.0012 μg ^c	0.0013 μg ^c
192-97-2	Benzo(e) Pyrene	(see Polynuclear Aromatic Hydrocarbons)				--	--
191-24-2	Benzo(g,h,i) Perylene	(see Polynuclear Aromatic Hydrocarbons)				--	--
205-82-3	Benzo(j) Fluoranthene	(see Polynuclear Aromatic Hydrocarbons)				--	--
207-08-9	Benzo(k) Fluoranthene	(see Polynuclear Aromatic Hydrocarbons)				0.012 μg ^c	0.013 μg ^c
7440-41-7	Beryllium	130	5.3	--	--	Note l	--
608-73-1	BHC (Hexachloro-cyclohexane)	100 ^ek	--	0.34 ^ek	--	(see individual compounds)
319-84-6	alpha-BHC	(see BHC (Hexachloro-cyclohexane))				0.36 ng ^c	0.39 ng ^c
319-85-7	beta-BHC	(see BHC (Hexachloro-cyclohexane))				8 ng ^c	14 ng ^c
319-86-8	delta-BHC	(see BHC (Hexachloro-cyclohexane))				0.0123 μg	0.0414 μg
58-89-9	gamma-BHC (Lindane)	0.95	0.08 ^k	0.16 ^k	--	4.2 μg ^l	4.4 μg
608-73-1	technical-BHC	(see Hexachlorocyclo-hexane-(Technical))				(see Hexachlorocyclo-hexane-(Technical))
111-91-1	Bis (2-Chloroethoxy) methane	(see Chloroalkyl ethers)				--	--
111-44-4	Bis (2-Chloroethyl) Ether	(see Chloroalkyl ethers)				0.03 μg ^c	2.2 μg ^c
108-60-1	Bis (2-Chloroiso- propyl) ether	(see Chloroalkyl ethers)				200 μg	4,000 μg
117-81-7	Bis (2-Ethylhexyl)Phthalate	(see Phthalate esters)				0.32 μg ^c	0.37 μg ^c
75-25-2	Bromoform	(see Halomethanes)				7 μg ^c	120 μg ^c
101-55-3	4-Bromophenyl phenyl ether	(see Haloethers)				--	--
85-68-7	Butyl benzyl phthalate	(see Phthalate esters)				0.1 μg^c	0.1 μg^c
7440-43-9	Cadmium ⁱ	0.39 ^{f, d}	0.21 ^{f, d}	33 ^d	7.9 ^d	Note 1	--
63-25-2	Carbaryl	2.1	2.1	1.6	--	--	--
1563-66-2	Carbofuran (Furadon, 4F)	--	--	--	--	Note l	--
56-23-5	Carbon Tetrachloride	35,200	--	50,000	--	0.4 μg ^c	5 μg ^c
57-74-9	Chlordane	2.4 ^k	0.0043 ^k	0.09 ^k	0.004 ^k	0.31 ng ^c	0.32 ng ^c
N/A	Chlorinated benzenes	250 ^e	50 ^e	160 ^e	129 ^e	(see individual compounds)
108-90-7	Chlorobenzene	(See Chlorinated benzenes)				20 μg ^j	20 μg ^j
16887-00-6	Chlorides	860,000	230,000	--	--	--	--
70776-03-3	Chlorinated naphthalenes	1,600^e	--	7.5^e	--	(see individual compounds)
7782-50-5	Chlorine	19	11	13	7.5	Note 1	--
10049-04-4	Chlorine Dioxide, as ClO₂	--	--	--	--	Note l	--
N/A	Chloroalkyl ethers	238,000^e	--	--	--	(see individual compounds)
10599-90-3	Chloramines, as Cl₂	--	--	--	--	Note l	--
111-44-4	Chloroethyl ether (Bis-2)	(see Bis (2-Chloroethyl) Ether)				(see Bis (2-Chloroethyl) Ether)
110-75-8	Chloroethyl vinyl ether-2	(see Chloroalkyl ethers)				--	--
124-48-1	Chlorodibromomethane	(see Halomethanes)				0.8 μg ^c	21 μg ^c
111-91-1	Chloroethoxy methane (Bis-2)	(see Bis (2-Chloroethoxy) methane)				(see Bis (2-Chloroethoxy) methane)
67-66-3	Chloroform	28,900	1,240	(see Halomethanes)		60 μg ^c	2,000 μg ^c
108-60-1	Chloroisopropyl ether (Bis-2)	(see Bis (2-Chloroisopropyl) ether)				(see Bis (2-Chloroisopropyl) ether)
59-50-7	p-Chloro-m-cresol	(see 3-Methyl-4-chlorophenol)				(see 3-Methyl-4-chlorophenol)
542-88-1	Chloromethyl ether (Bis)	(see Chloroalkyl ethers)				0.15 ng ^c	17 ng ^c
91-58-7	Chloronaphthalene 2	(see Chlorinated naphthalenes)				800 μg	1,000 μg
95-57-8	Chlorophenol 2	4,380	2,000	--	--	0.1 μg ^j	0.1 μg ^j
108-43-0	Chlorophenol 3	--	--	--	--	0.1 μg ^j	0.1 μg ^j
106-48-9	Chlorophenol 4	--	--	29,700	--	0.1 μg ^j	0.1 μg ^j
93-72-1	Chlorophenoxy herbicides (2,4,5-TP)	--	--	--	--	100 μg ^l	400 μg
94-75-7	Chlorophenoxy herbicides (2,4-D)	--	--	--	--	1,300 μg ^l	12,000 μg
7005-72-3	Chlorophenyl phenyl ether 4	(see Haloethers)				--	--
2921-88-2	Chlorpyrifos	0.083	0.041	0.011	0.0056	--	--
59-50-7	Chloro-4 Methyl-3 Phenol	(see 3-Methyl-4-chlorophenol)				(see 3-Methyl-4-chlorophenol)
18540-29-9	Chromium+6	16 ^{d, i}	11 ^{d, i}	1,100 ^{d, i}	50 ^{d, i}	Note l	--
16065-83-1	Chromium+3	152 ^{f, d, i}	19.8 ^{f, d ,i}	10300	--	Note l	--
218-01-9	Chrysene	(see Polynuclear Aromatic Hydrocarbons)				0.12 μg ^c	0.13 μg ^c
7440-50-8	Copper ⁱ	2.9 ^{f, d}	2.3 ^{f, d}	4.8 ^d	3.1 ^d	1,000 μg ^j	1,000 μg ^j
57-12-5	Cyanide	22^m	5.2^m	1.0^m	1.0^m	4 μg ^q	400 μg ^q
72-55-9	DDE(4,4')	1050	--	14	--	0.018 ng ^c	0.018 ng ^c
72-54-8	DDD(4,4')	0.6	--	3.6	--	0.12 ng ^c	0.12 ng ^c
50-29-3	DDT(4,4')	1.1^{k, t}	0.001^{k, t}	0.13^{k, t}	0.001^{k, t}	0.03 ng ^c	0.03 ng ^c
75-99-0	Dalapon	--	--	--	--	Note l	--
8065-48-3	Demeton	--	0.1	--	0.1	--	--
333-41-5	Diazinon	0.17	0.17	0.82	0.82	--	--
53-70-3	Dibenzo(a,h)Anthracene	(see Polynuclear Aromatic Hydrocarbons)				0.12 ng ^c	0.13 ng^c
96-12-8	Dibromochloropropane (DBCP)	--	--	--	--	Note l	--
84-74-2	Dibutyl Phthalate	(see Di-n-butyl Phthalate)				(see Di-n-butyl Phthalate)
N/A	Dichlorobenzenes	1,120^e	763^e	1,970^e	--	(see individual compounds)
95-50-1	Dichlorobenzene(1,2)	(see Dichlorobenzenes)				1,000 μg ^l	3,000 μg
541-73-1	Dichlorobenzene(1,3)	(see Dichlorobenzenes)				7 μg	10 μg
106-46-7	Dichlorobenzene(1,4)	(see Dichlorobenzenes)				300 μg ^l	900 μg
91-94-1	Dichlorobenzidine(3,3^')	--	--	--	--	0.049 μg ^c	0.15 μg ^c
75-27-4	Dichlorobromomethane	(see Halomethanes)				0.95 μg ^c	27 μg ^c
75-71-8	Dichlorodifluoromethane	(see Halomethanes)				6.9 mg ^c	570 mg ^c
107-06-2	Dichloroethane(1,2)	118,000	20,000	113,000	--	9.9 μg ^{c, l}	650 μg ^c
25323-30-2	Dichloroethylenes	11,600 ^e	--	224,000 ^e	--	(see individual compounds)
75-35-4	Dichloroethylene(1,1)	(see Dichloroethylenes)				300 μg ^l	20,000 μg
156-59-2	Dichloroethylene (1,2-cis)	-- -- -- --(see Dichloroethylenes)				Note l	--
156-60-5	Dichloroethylene (1,2-Trans)	(see Dichloroethylenes)				100 μg ^l	4,000 μg
576-24-9	Dichlorophenol(2,3)	--	--	--	--	0.04 μg ^j	0.04 μg ^j
120-83-2	Dichlorophenol(2,4)	2020	365	--	--	0.3 μg ^j	0.3 μg ^j
583-78-8	Dichlorophenol(2,5)	--	--	--	--	0.5 μg ^j	0.5 μg ^j
87-65-0	Dichlorophenol(2,6)	--	--	--	--	0.2 μg ^j	0.2 μg ^j
95-77-2	Dichlorophenol(3,4)	--	--	--	--	0.3 μg ^j	0.3 μg ^j
26638-19-7	Dichloropropanes	23,000 ^e	5,700 ^e	10,300 ^e	3,040 ^e	(see individual compounds)
78-87-5	Dichloropropane(1,2)	(see Dichloropropanes)				0.9 μg ^c	31 μg ^c
26952-23-8	Dichloropropenes	6,060 ^e	244 ^e	790 ^e	--	(see individual compounds)
542-75-6	Dichloropropene(1,3)	(see Dichloropropenes)				0.27 μg ^c	12 μg ^c
60-57-1	Dieldrin	0.24	0.056^k	0.71^k	0.0019^k	0.0012 ng ^c	0.0012 ng ^c
84-66-2	Diethyl Phthalate	--	--	--	--	600 μg	600 μg
105-67-9	Dimethyl Phenol(2,4)	1,300	530	270	110	100 μg	400 μg ^j
131-11-3	Dimethyl Phthalate	(see Phthalate esters)				2,000 μg	2,000 μg
84-74-2	Di-n-butyl Phthalate	(see Phthalate esters)				20 μg	30 μg
N/A	Dinitrotoluenes	330 ^e	230 ^e	590 ^e	370 ^e	(see individual compounds)
121-14-2	Dinitrotoluene(2,4)	(see Dinitrotoluenes)				0.049 μg ^c	1.7 μg ^c
606-20-2	Dinitrotoluene(2,6)	(see Dinitrotoluenes)				--	--
534-52-1	Dinitro-o-cresol (4,6)	(see 2 Methyl-4,6-Dinitrophenol)				(see 2 Methyl-4,6-Dinitrophenol)
25550-58-7	Dinitrophenols	(see Nitrophenols)				10 μg	1,000 μg
51-28-5	Dinitrophenol(2,4)	(see Nitrophenols)				10 μg	300 μg
117-84-0	Di-n-octyl phthalate	(see Phthalate esters)				--	--
88-85-7	Dinoseb	--	--	--	--	Note l	--
85-00-7	Diquat	--	--	--	--	Note l	--
1746-01-6	2,3,7,8-TCDD (Dioxin)	--	--	--	--	0.000005 ng ^c	0.0000051 ng ^c
122-66-7	Diphenylhydrazine(1,2)	270	--	--	--	0.03 μg ^c	0.2 μg ^c
103-23-1	Di(2-ethylhexyl)adipate	--	--	--	--	Note l	--
117-81-7	Di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate	(see Bis (2-Ethylhexy)Phthalate)				(see Bis (2-Ethylhexy)Phthalate)
115-29-7	Endosulfan	0.22 ^{k, r}	0.056 ^{k, r}	0.034 ^{k, r}	0.0087 ^{k, r}	(see individual compounds)
959-98-8	alpha-Endosulfan	(see Endosulfan)				20 μg	30 μg
33213-65-9	beta-Endosulfan	(see Endosulfan)				20 μg	40 μg
1031-07-8	Endosulfan Sulfate	--	--	--	--	20 μg	40 μg
145-73-3	Endothall	--	--	--	--	Note l	--
72-20-8	Endrin	0.086	0.036	0.037 ^k	0.0023 ^k	0.03 μg	0.03 μg
7421-93-4	Endrin Aldehyde	--	--	--	--	1 μg	1 μg
100-41-4	Ethylbenzene	32000	--	430	--	68 μg	130 μg
106-93-4	Ethylene Dibromide (EDB)	--	--	--	--	Note l	--
206-44-0	Fluoranthene	(see Polynuclear Aromatic Hydrocarbons)				20 μg	20 μg
86-73-7	Fluorene	(see Polynuclear Aromatic Hydrocarbons)				50 μg	70 μg
16984-48-8	Flouride	--	--	--	--	Note l	--
1071-83-6	Glyphosate	--	--	--	--	Note l	--
86-50-0	Guthion	--	0.01	--	0.01	--	--
N/A	Haloethers	360 ^e	122 ^e	--	--	(see individual compounds)
N/A	Halomethanes	11,000 ^e	--	12,000 ^e	6,400 ^e	(see individual compounds)
76-44-8	Heptachlor	0.52 ^k	0.0038 ^k	0.053 ^k	0.0036 ^k	0.0059 ng ^c	0.0059 ng ^c
1024-57-3	Heptachlor Epoxide	0.52 ^k	0.0038 ^k	0.053 ^k	0.0036 ^k	0.032 ng ^c	0.032 ng ^c
67-72-1	Hexachloroethane	980	540	940	--	0.1 μg ^c	0.1 μg ^c
118-74-1	Hexachlorobenzene	(see Chlorinated benzenes)				0.079 ng ^c	0.079 ng ^c
87-68-3	Hexachlorobutadiene	90	9.3	32	--	0.01 μg ^c	0.01 μg ^c
608-73-1	Hexachlorocyclo-hexane-(Technical)	(see BHC (Hexachloro-cyclohexane))				0.0066 μg	0.01 μg
77-47-4	Hexachlorocyclopentadiene	7	5.2	7	--	1.0 ^j	1.0 ^j
193-39-5	Indeno(1,2,3-cd)Pyrene	(see Polynuclear Aromatic Hydrocarbons)				0.0012 μg ^c	0.0013 μg ^c
7439-89-6	Iron	--	1000	--	--	0.3 mg ^j	--
78-59-1	Isophorone	117,000	--	12,900	--	34 μg ^c	1,800 μg ^c
7439-92-1	Lead ⁱ	10.5 ^{f, d}	0.41 ^{f, d}	210 ^d	8.1 ^d	--	--
121-75-5	Malathion	--	0.1	--	0.1	--	--
7439-96-5	Manganese	--	--	--	--	50 μg ^j	100 μg
7439-97-6	Mercury	1.4 ^{d, i}	0.77 ^{d, i}	1.8 ^{d, i}	0.94 ^{d, i}	0.05 μg	0.051 μg
72-43-5	Methoxychlor	--	0.03	--	0.03	0.02 μg	0.02 μg
74-83-9	Methyl Bromide	(see Halomethanes)				100 μg	10,000 μg
74-87-3	Methyl Chloride	(see Halomethanes)				--	--
1634-04-4	Methyl tertiary-butyl ether (MtBE)	--	--	--	--	Note l	--
75-09-2	Methylene Chloride	(see Halomethanes)				20 μg ^cl	1,000 μg ^c
22967-92-6	Methylmercury	(see Mercury )				--	0.3 mg/kg ^g
534-52-1	2 Methyl-4,6-Dinitrophenol	(see Nitrophenols)				2 μg	30 μg
1570-64-5	2-Methyl-4-chlorophenol	--	--	--	--	1,800 μg ^j	1,800 μg ^j
59-50-7	3-Methyl-4-chlorophenol	30	--	--	--	500 μg ^j	2,000 μg ^j
615-74-7	3-Methyl-6-chlorophenol	--	--	--	--	20 μg ^j	20 μg ^j
2385-85-5	Mirex	--	0.001	--	0.001	--	--
91-20-3	Naphthalene	2,300	620	2,350	--	--	--
7440-02-0	Nickel ⁱ	120.0 ^{f, d}	13.3 ^{f, d}	74 ^d	8.2 ^d	610 μg	4,600 μg
14797-65-0	Nitrite-N	--	--	--	--	Note l	--
14797-55-8	Nitrate-N	--	--	--	--	10 mg^l	--
14797-55-8 + 14797-65-0	Nitrate-N + Nitrite-N	--	--	--	--	Note l	--
98-95-3	Nitrobenzene	27000	--	6680	--	10 μg	30 μg^j
25154-55-6	Nitrophenols	230 ^e	150 ^e	4,850 ^e	--	(see individual compounds)
88-75-5	Nitrophenol 2	(see Nitrophenols)				--	--
100-02-7	Nitrophenol 4	(see Nitrophenols)				--	--
N/A	Nitrosamines	5,850 ^e	--	3,300,000 ^e	--	0.8 ng	1.24 μg
924-16-3	Nitrosodibutylamine N	(see Nitrosamines)				6.3 ng ^c	220 ng ^c
55-18-5	Nitrosodiethylamine N	(see Nitrosamines)				0.8 ng ^c	1,240 ng ^c
62-75-9	Nitrosodimethylamine N	(see Nitrosamines)				0.69 ng ^c	3 μg ^c
621-64-7	Nitrosodi-n-propylamine N	(see Nitrosamines)				0.005 μg ^c	0.51 μg ^c
86-30-6	Nitrosodiphenylamine N	(see Nitrosamines)				3.3 μg ^c	6 μg ^c
930-55-2	Nitrosopyrrolidine N	(see Nitrosamines)				16 ng ^c	34,000 ng ^c
84852-15-3	Nonylphenol	28	6.6	7	1.7	--	--
56-38-2	Parathion	0.065	0.013	--	--	--	--
1336-36-3	PCB	2.0 ^{e, n}	0.014 ^{e, n}	10.0^{e, n}	0.03^{e, n}	0.064 ng ^{c, n}	0.064 ng ^{c, n}
N/A	PCB-1242	(see PCB)				(see PCB)	(see PCB)
N/A	PCB-1254	(see PCB)				(see PCB)	(see PCB)
N/A	PCB-1221	(see PCB)				(see PCB)	(see PCB)
N/A	PCB-1248	(see PCB)				(see PCB)	(see PCB)
N/A	PCB-1260	(see PCB)				(see PCB)	(see PCB)
N/A	PCB-1016	(see PCB)				(see PCB)	(see PCB)
76-01-7	Pentachloroethane	7240	1100	390	281	--	--
608-93-5	Pentachlorobenzene	(see Chlorinated benzenes)				0.1 μg	0.1 μg
87-86-5	Pentachlorophenol	5.28 ^h	4.05 ^h	13	7.9	0.03 μg ^c	0.04 μg ^c
85-01-8	Phenanthrene	(see Polynuclear Aromatic Hydrocarbons)				--	--
108-95-2	Phenol	10,200	2,560	5,800	--	300 μg ^j	300 μg ^j
N/A	Phthalate Esters	940 ^e	3 ^e	2,944 ^e	3.4 ^e	--	--
1336-36-3	Polychlorinated Biphenyls	(see PCBs)				(see PCB)	(see PCB)
N/A	Polynuclear Aromatic Hydrocarbons	--	--	300 ^e	--	(see individual compounds)
23135-22-0	Oxamyl (Vydate)	--	--	--	--	Note l	--
355-46-4	Perfluorohexane sulfonic acid (PFHxS)	--	--	--	--	Note l	--
375-95-1	Perfluorononanoic acid (PFNA)	--	--	--	--	Note l	--
1763-23-1	Perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS)	--	--	--	--	Note l	--
335-67-1	Perfluorooctanoic Acid (PFOA)	--	--	--	--	Note l	--
1918-02-1	Picloram	--	--	--	--	Note l	--
129-00-0	Pyrene	(see Polynuclear Aromatic Hydrocarbons)				20 μg	30 μg
7782-49-2	Selenium	Note o	Note o	290^d,i	71^d,i	170 μg ^l	4,200 μg
7440-22-4	Silver	0.20^{d,f, i, k}	--	1.9^d,i,k	--	105 μg ^p	65 mg ^p
122-34-9	Simazine	--	--	--	--	Note l	--
100-42-5	Styrene	--	--	--	--	Note l	--
7783-06-4	Sulfide-Hydrogen Sulfide	--	2	--	2	--	--
95-94-3	Tetrachlorobenzene 1,2,4,5	(see Chlorinated benzenes)				0.03 μg	0.03 μg
79-34-5	Tetrachloroethane 1,1,2,2	(see Tetrachlor-oethanes)	2400	9020	--	0.2 μg ^c	3 μg ^c
25322-20-7	Tetrachloroethanes	9,320 ^e	--	--	--	(see individual compounds)
127-18-4	Tetrachloroethylene	5,280	840	10,200	450	10 μg ^c	29 μg ^c
935-95-5	Tetrachlorophenol 2,3,5,6	--	--	440	--	--	--
58-90-2	Tetrachlorophenol 2,3,4,6	--	--	--	--	1.0 μg ^j	1.0 μg ^j
7440-28-0	Thallium	1,400	40	2,130	--	0.24 μg	0.47 μg
108-88-3	Toluene	17,500	--	6,300	5,000	57 μg	520 μg
8001-35-2	Toxaphene	0.73	0.0002	0.21	0.0002	0.70 ng ^c	0.71 ng ^c
N/A	Tributyltin (TBT)	0.46	0.072	0.42	0.0074	--	--
N/A	Trichlorinated Ethanes	18,000 ^e	--	--	--	(see individual compounds)
120-82-1	Trichlorobenzene 1,2,4	(see Chlorinated benzenes)				0.071 μg ^c	0.076 μg ^c
71-55-6	Trichloroethane 1,1,1	--	--	31,200	--	10 mg ^l	200 mg
79-00-5	Trichloroethane 1,1,2	--	9,400	--	--	0.55 μg ^c	8.9 μg ^c
79-01-6	Trichloroethylene	45,000	21,900	2,000	--	0.6 μg ^c	7 μg ^c
75-69-4	Trichlorofluoromethane	(see Halomethanes)				10 mg	860 mg
95-95-4	Trichlorophenol 2,4,5	--	--	--	--	1.0 μg ^j	1.0 μg ^j
88-06-2	Trichlorophenol 2,4,6	--	970	--	--	1.5 μg ^c	2.0 μg ^c ^{, j}
75-01-4	Vinyl Chloride	--	--	--	--	0.022 μg ^c	1.6 μg ^c
1330-20-7	Xylene, Total	--	--	--	--	Note l	--
7440-66-6	Zinc ⁱ	30.0 ^{f, d}	30.0 ^{f, d}	90^d	81^d	5,000 μg ^j	5,000 μg ^j

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25

Env-Wq 1703.22 Notes For Table 1703-1. The following shall apply to Table 1703-1:

(a) The letter “a” shall indicate that the freshwater and saltwater aquatic life criteria for ammonia are shown in Env-Wq 1703.25 through Env-Wq 1703.32;

(b) The letter “b” shall indicate that the criteria refer to the inorganic form only;

(c) The letter “c” shall indicate that these criteria for the protection of human health are based on carcinogenicity using a target risk of one in 1,000,000, except for arsenic which shall be based on a target risk of one in 100,000, while the human health criteria without this footnote are based on systemic toxicity. Other target risks shall be allowed only as specified in Env-Wq 1703.20;

(d) The letter “d” shall indicate that criteria for these metals are expressed as a function of the water effect ratio (WER), and that because the values displayed in Table 1703-1 correspond to a WER of 1.0, metals criteria for different WERs shall be determined using the procedures described in the EPA publication “Interim Guidance on Determination and Use of Water-Effect Ratios for Metals”, EPA-823-B-94-001, dated February 1994, available as noted in Appendix B, provided that for copper, either of the following references, both available as noted in Appendix B, may also be used:

(1) The “Streamlined Water-Effect Ratio procedure for Discharges of Copper”, EPA-822-R-01-005, dated March 2001; or

(2) The Biotic Ligand Model, freshwater only, as described in “Aquatic Life Ambient Freshwater Quality Criteria - Copper”, EPA-822-R-07-001, dated February 2007;

(e) The letter “e” shall indicate that the following classes of compounds have 2 or more isomers and the appropriate aquatic life criteria apply to the sum of the concentrations of each isomer:

(1) BHC;

(2) Chlorinated benzenes;

(3) Chlorinated naphthalenes;

(4) Chloroalkyl ethers;

(5) Dichlorobenzenes;

(6) Dichloroethylenes;

(7) Dichloropropanes;

(8) Dichloropropenes;

(9) Dinitrotoluenes;

(10) Haloethers;

(11) Halomethanes;

(12) Nitrophenols;

(13) Nitrosamines;

(14) PCB;

(15) Phthalate esters;

(16) Polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons;

(17) Tetrachloroethanes; and

(18) Trichlorinatedethanes;

(f) The letter “f” shall indicate that the freshwater aquatic criteria for these metals are expressed as a function of the total hardness, as mg/L CaCO3 of the surface water, and that because the values displayed in Table 1703-1 correspond to a total hardness of 20 mg/L the aquatic life criteria for other hardness values expressed as calcium carbonate shall be calculated using the equations and tables in Env-Wq 1703.23 and Env-Wq 1703.24;

(g) The letter “g” shall indicate that if the methylmercury concentration in the edible portion of the aquatic species of concern exceeds 0.3 mg/kg, a risk assessment shall be conducted to determine whether a consumption advisory should be issued for the surface water. If a consumption advisory is issued by the department, the surface water shall be considered in non-attainment of the fish or shellfish consumption designated uses and in violation of these surface water quality regulations;

(h) The letter “h” shall indicate that the freshwater aquatic life criteria for pentachlorophenol are expressed as a function of pH. Values displayed in Table 1703-1 correspond to a pH value of 6.5. For other pH values, the formulas shown in Env-Wq 1703.33 shall be used;

(i) The letter “i” shall indicate that the values presented for aquatic life protection are dissolved metals and for hardness-dependent metals are based on a hardness of 20 mg/L. To convert dissolved to total recoverable metal, the equations and tables in Env-Wq 1703.23 shall be used. To calculate dissolved or total recoverable fresh water criteria for hardness-dependent metals for hardness values other than 20 mg/l, the equations and tables shown in Env-Wq 1703.23 and Env-Wq 1703.24 shall be used;

(j) The letter “j” shall indicate that these human health criteria prevent taste and odor effects in the surface water and in fish and other aquatic life as prohibited in Env-Wq 1703.03(c)(1)c. and (3);

(k) The letter “k” shall indicate that the acute criteria are based on EPA’s 304(a) criteria in the 1980 documents listed below and were derived to be used as instantaneous maximum values, or to be applied after division by 2, to obtain a value comparable to an acute criterion as a 1-hour average when assessment is done using an averaging period:

(1) Aldrin/Dieldrin, document number 440/5-80-019;

(2) Chlordane, document number 440/5-80-027;

(3) DDT, document number 440/5-80-038;

(4) Endosulfan, document number 440/5-80-046;

(5) Endrin, document number 440/5-80-047;

(6) Gamma-BHC (lindane), document number 440/5-80-054;

(7) Heptachlor, document number 440/5-80-052;

(8) Hexachlorocyclohexane, document number 440/5-80-054; or

(9) Silver, document number 440/5-80-071;

(l) The letter “l” shall indicate that there is a more stringent drinking water maximum contaminant level (MCL) specified in Env-Dw 700, so if the surface water is a source for a public water system as defined in RSA 485:1-a, XV or is within 20 miles upstream of any active surface water intake for a public water system, the department shall use the MCL values shown in Table 1703-2A, below, for the water and fish ingestion human health criteria. The following criteria shall be met as a running annual average except for Nitrite-N and Nitrite-N + Nitrate-N which shall be instantaneous acute criteria:

Table 1703-2A: MCL Values for Water and Fish Ingestion Criteria
CAS Number	Chemical Name	MCL (Units per Liter)
15972-60-8	Alachlor (Lasso)	2 μg
116-06-3	Aldicarb (Temik)	3 μg
1646-87-3	Aldicarb sulfoxide	4 μg
1646-88-4	Aldicarb sulfone (aldoxycarb)	2 μg
1912-24-9	Atrazine (Atranex, Crisazine)	3 μg
7440-41-7	Beryllium	4 μg
7440-43-9	Cadmium	5 μg
1563-66-2	Carbofuran (Furadon, 4F)	40 μg
7782-50-5	Chlorine (as Cl₂)	4 mg
10599-90-3	Chloramines, as Cl2	4 mg
10049-04-4	Chlorine Dioxide, as ClO2	0.8 mg
94-75-7	Chlorophenoxy herbicides (2,4-D)	70 μg
93-72-1	Chlorophenoxy herbicides (2,4,5-TP)	50 μg
18540-29-9	Chromium+6	see Chromium Total
16065-83-1	Chromium+3	see Chromium Total
7440-47-3	Chromium Total (equal to the sum of Chromium+3 plus Chromium+6)	100 μg
75-99-0	Dalapon	200 μg
96-12-8	Dibromochloropropane (DBCP)	0.2 μg
95-50-1	Dichlorobenzene (1,2)	600 μg
106-46-7	Dichlorobenzene(1,4)	75 μg
107-06-2	Dichloroethane (1,2)	5 μg
75-35-4	Dichloroethylene(1,1)	7 μg
156-59-2	Dichloroethylene (1,2-cis)	70 μg
156-60-5	Dichloroethylene(1,2-Trans)	100 μg
88-85-7	Dinoseb	7 μg
85-00-7	Diquat	20 μg
103-23-1	Di(2-ethylhexyl)adipate	400 μg
145-73-3	Endothall	100 μg
106-93-4	Ethylene Dibromide (EDB)	0.05 μg
16984-48-8	Fluoride	4 mg
58-89-9	gamma-BHC (Lindane)	0.2 μg
1071-83-6	Glyphosate	700 μg
75-09-2	Methylene Chloride	5 μg
1634-04-4	Methyl tertiary-butyl ether (MtBE)	13 μg
14797-65-0	Nitrite-N	1 mg
14797-55-8	Nitrate-N	10 mg
14797-55-8 + 14797-65-0	Nitrate-N + Nitrite-N	10 mg
23135-22-0	Oxamyl (Vydate)	200 μg
355-46-4	Perfluorohexane sulfonic acid (PFHxS)	18 ng
375-95-1	Perfluorononanoic acid (PFNA)	11 ng
1763-23-1	Perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS)	15 ng
335-67-1	Perfluorooctanoic Acid (PFOA)	12 ng
1918-02-1	Picloram	500 μg
7782-49-2	Selenium	50 μg
122-34-9	Simazine	4 μg
100-42-5	Styrene	100 μg
71-55-6	Trichloroethane 1,1,1	200 μg
1330-20-7	Xylene, Total	10 mg

(m) The letter “m” shall indicate that these criteria are expressed as micrograms of free cyanide per liter;

(n) The letter “n” shall indicate that these criteria apply to total PCBs or the sum of all of its congener, isomer, homolog, or Arochlor analyses;

(o) The letter “o” shall indicate that the freshwater aquatic life criteria for selenium are shown in Env-Wq 1703.34;

(p) The letter “p” shall indicate that these human health criteria for silver shall be for the protection of humans from argyria;

(q) The letter “q” shall indicate that this value is expressed as total cyanide;

(r) The letter “r” shall indicate that this data was derived from data for endosulfan and is most appropriately applied to the sum of alpha-endosulfan and beta-endosulfan;

(s) Subject to (1) and (2), below, the letter “s” shall indicate that this value is expressed as acid-soluble aluminum:

(1) Where waterbody specific pH, dissolved organic carbon and hardness are available, sample specific total aluminum criteria shall be determined using the procedures described in the EPA publication “Final Aquatic Life Ambient Water Quality Criteria for Aluminum”, EPA-822-R-18-001, dated December 2018, available as noted in Appendix B, provided that for aluminum, either of the following references shall be used to calculate the site-specific criteria:

a. The “Aluminum Criteria Calculator V2.0 (Excel)(xlsm)”, dated December 2018, available as noted in Appendix B; or

b. The “Aluminum Criteria Calculator R Code and Data V2.0(R)”, dated November 15, 2019, available as noted in Appendix B; and

(2) For characterizing ambient waters using the criteria in (1), above, analytical methods that measure the bioavailable fraction of aluminum may be used in accordance with this paragraph where permitted by applicable federal regulations. The bioavailable fraction of aluminum shall be measured, as scientifically appropriate, using a less aggressive initial acid digestion than done for total recoverable aluminum, such as to a pH of approximately 4 or lower, that includes the measurement of amorphous aluminum hydroxide yet minimizes the measurement of mineralized forms of aluminum such as aluminum silicates associated with suspended sediment particles or clays;

(t) The letter “t” shall indicate that the total concentration of DDT and its metabolites shall not exceed this value;

(u) The letter “u” shall indicate that the chronic criterion of 20 mg/L shall be the minimum value except where alkalinity is naturally lower, in which case the criterion shall not be lower than 25 percent of the natural level;

(v) Unless otherwise indicated in Env-Wq 1703.22 (k), (o), or Env-Wq 1703.26(c), the protection of aquatic life concentration values in Table 1703-1 are acute as a 1-hour average and chronic as a 4-day average, both of which shall not to be exceeded more than once in 3-years; and

(w) The letter “w” shall indicate that for arsenic, the first value is for freshwaters and the second value is for marine waters as it relates to protection of human health.

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25

Env-Wq 1703.23 Conversion Factors For Metals.

(a) Dissolved metal shall be determined by multiplying total recoverable metal by the conversion factor listed in Table 1703-2 for that metal, shown in equation form as follows:

Dissolved Metal = Total Recoverable Metal x Conversion Factor

(b) Total recoverable metals shall be determined by dividing dissolved metals by the conversion factor listed in Table 1703-2, shown in equation form as follows:

Total Recoverable Metal = Dissolved Metal / Conversion Factor

(c) The conversion factors in Table 1703-2 shall be used as translators to go from the dissolved metals criteria listed in Table 1703-1 to permit limits expressed as total recoverable metals by dividing dissolved metal by the conversion factor.

(d) If the hardness of the receiving water is different than 20 mg/L, then aquatic life criteria for hardness-dependent metals shall be calculated as follows:

(1) The equations in Env-Wq 1703.24(a) and (b) shall be used in conjunction with the coefficients shown in Table 1703-3 to calculate the total recoverable metal for freshwater;

(2) The equations shown in (a) and (b), above, shall be used in conjunction with the factors shown in Table 1703-2 to convert total recoverable metal to dissolved metal or dissolved metal to total recoverable metal;

(3) For hardness less than 20 mg/L, a hardness of 20 mg/L shall be used in the equations; and

(4) For hardness values greater than 400 mg/L, a hardness of 400 mg/L shall be used in the equations.

(e) Table 1703-2 shall be as follows, provided that the conversion factors for cadmium and lead shall be no greater than 1.0:

Table 1703-2: Factors to Convert Total Recoverable Metals to Dissolved Metals

	FRESHWATER Conversion Factors		MARINE Conversion Factors
	Acute	Chronic	Acute	Chronic
Arsenic	1.0	1.0	1.0	1.0
Cadmium	1.136672 - [(Ln Hardness)(0.041838)]	1.101672 - [(Ln Hardness)(0.041838)]	0.994	0.994
Chromium (+3)	0.316	0.860	-	-
Chromium (+6)	0.982	0.962	0.993	0.993
Copper	0.960	0.960	0.83	0.83
Lead	1.46203 - [(Ln Hardness)(0.145712)]	1.46203 - [(Ln Hardness)(0.145712)]	0.951	0.951
Mercury	0.85	0.85	0.85	0.85
Nickel	0.998	0.997	0.990	0.990
Selenium	-	-	0.998	0.998
Silver	0.85	-	0.85	-
Zinc	0.978	0.986	0.946	0.946

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25

Env-Wq 1703.24 Freshwater Aquatic Life Criteria For Metals. To calculate freshwater aquatic life criteria for total recoverable metals, the equations described in (a) and (b), below, shall be used in conjunction with the coefficients shown in (c), Table 1703-3, below, provided that the values used for hardness in the equations shall be as specified in Env-Wq 1703.23(d):

(a) To calculate the acute criteria, in μg/L, for the metals shown Table 1703-3, the exponent “e” shall be raised to the power “x” where “x” is equal to the parenthetical expression “ma” multiplied by the natural logarithm (ln) of the hardness and to which product the value “ba” shall be added, as follows:

Acute Criteria = e^x where x = ( m_a [ ln (hardness) ] + b_a)

(b) To calculate the chronic criteria, in μg/L, for the metals shown in Table 1703-3, the exponent “e” shall be raised to the power “x” where “x” is equal to the parenthetical expression “mc” multiplied by the natural logarithm of the hardness and to which product the value “bc” shall be added, as follows:

Chronic Criteria = e^x where x = ( m_c[ ln (hardness) ] + b_c)

Table 1703-3: Coefficients in Equations for Calculating Total Recoverable Aquatic Life Criteria for Metals

	m_a	b_a	m_c	b_c
Cadmium	0.9789	-3.866	0.7977	-3.909
Copper	0.9422	-1.700	0.8545	-1.702
Chromium+3	0.8190	3.7256	0.8190	0.6848
Lead	1.273	-1.460	1.273	-4.705
Nickel	0.8460	2.255	0.8460	0.0584
Silver	1.72	-6.59	-------	-------
Zinc	0.8473	0.884	0.8473	0.884

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25

Env-Wq 1703.25 Freshwater Acute Aquatic Life Criteria For Ammonia.

(a) Subject to (b) through (d), below, to determine freshwater acute aquatic life criteria for ammonia, in milligrams of nitrogen per liter (mg N/L), the applicant shall use:

(1) Table 1703-4A, where salmonids in the genus Oncorhynchus are or might be present; and

(2) Table 1703-4B, where salmonids in the genus Oncorhynchus are absent.

(b) The freshwater acute water quality criteria for ammonia in Table 1703-4A where salmonids in the genus Oncorhynchus are or might be present shall be calculated by taking the lesser of the value resulting from dividing 0.275 by the sum of one plus 10 raised to the power of 7.204 minus the pH, and adding the resulting value to the value found by dividing 39.0 by the sum of one plus 10 raised to the power of the pH minus 7.204, to the value resulting from dividing 0.0114 by the sum of one plus 10 raised to the power of the 7.204 minus pH, and adding the resulting value found by dividing 1.6181 by the sum of one plus 10 raised to the power of the pH minus 7.204 and multiplying this value by 0.7249 multiplied by the value resulting from multiplying 23.12 by 10 raised to the power of 0.036 multiplied by value of 20 minus the temperature, as shown in the following equation:

Freshwater Acute Criteria, Salmonids in the Genus Onchorhynchus Present =

MIN { [0.275 / (1+10 ^7.204-pH) + 39.0 / (1+10 ^pH-7.204)],

[0.7249 x[0.0114/(1+10 ^7.204-pH) + 1.6181 / (1+10 ^pH-7.204)] x (23.12 x 10 ^{0.036 x(20-T)})] }

Where MIN indicates the lesser of the two values separated by a comma.

(c) The freshwater acute water quality criteria for ammonia in Table 1703-4B where salmonids in the genus Oncorhynchus are absent shall be calculated by dividing 0.0114 by the sum of one plus 10 raised to the power of 7.204 minus the pH, and adding the resulting value to the value found by dividing 1.6181 by the sum of one plus 10 raised to the power of the pH minus 7.204, and multiplying this value by 0.7249 multiplied by the lesser of 51.93 or the value resulting from multiplying 23.12 by 10 raised to the power of 0.036 multiplied by value of 20 minus the temperature as shown in the following equation:

Freshwater Acute Criteria, Salmonids in the Genus Onchorhynchus Absent =

{0.7249 x[0.0114/(1+10 ^7.204-pH) + 1.6181 / (1+10 ^pH-7.204)]} x MIN [ 51.93, (23.12 x 10 ^{0.036 x(20-T)})]

Where MIN indicates the lesser of the 2 values separated by a comma.

(d) The equations described in (b) and (c), above, shall be used to calculate freshwater acute water quality criteria for ammonia at unlisted pH and temperature values.

(e) Table 1703-4A and Table 1703-4B shall be as follows:

Table 1703-4A: Freshwater Acute Aquatic Life Criteria For Ammonia in mg N/L Salmonids in the Genus Oncorhynchus Present
pH	Temperature, Degrees C
pH	0-14	15	16	18	20	22	24	26	28	30
6.5	33	33	32	27	23	19	16	14	12	9.9
6.6	31	31	30	26	22	18	16	13	11	9.5
6.7	30	30	29	24	21	18	15	13	11	9.0
6.8	28	28	27	23	20	17	14	12	10	8.5
6.9	26	26	25	21	18	15	13	11	9.4	7.9
7.0	24	24	23	20	17	14	12	10	8.6	7.3
7.1	22	22	21	18	15	13	11	9.3	7.9	6.7
7.2	20	20	19	16	14	12	9.8	8.3	7.1	6.0
7.3	18	18	17	14	12	10	8.7	7.4	6.3	5.3
7.4	15	15	15	13	11	9.0	7.7	6.5	5.5	4.7
7.5	13	13	13	11	9.2	7.8	6.6	5.6	4.8	4.0
7.6	11	11	11	9.3	7.9	6.7	5.7	4.8	4.1	3.5
7.7	9.6	9.6	9.3	7.9	6.7	5.7	4.8	4.1	3.5	3.0
7.8	8.1	8.1	7.9	6.7	5.6	4.8	4.0	3.4	2.9	2.5
7.9	6.8	6.8	6.6	5.6	4.7	4.0	3.4	2.9	2.4	2.1
8.0	5.6	5.6	5.4	4.6	3.9	3.3	2.8	2.4	2.0	1.7
8.1	4.6	4.6	4.5	3.8	3.2	2.7	2.3	2.0	1.7	1.4
8.2	3.8	3.8	3.7	3.1	2.7	2.3	1.9	1.6	1.4	1.2
8.3	3.1	3.1	3.1	2.6	2.2	1.9	1.6	1.3	1.1	0.96
8.4	2.6	2.6	2.5	2.1	1.8	1.5	1.3	1.1	0.93	0.79
8.5	2.1	2.1	2.1	1.8	1.5	1.3	1.1	0.90	0.77	0.65
8.6	1.8	1.8	1.7	1.5	1.2	1.0	0.88	0.75	0.63	0.54
8.7	1.5	1.5	1.4	1.2	1.0	0.87	0.74	0.62	0.53	0.45
8.8	1.2	1.2	1.2	1.0	0.86	0.73	0.62	0.52	0.44	0.37
8.9	1.0	1.0	1.0	0.85	0.72	0.61	0.52	0.44	0.37	0.32
9.0	0.88	0.88	0.86	0.73	0.62	0.52	0.44	0.37	0.32	0.27

Table 1703-4B: Freshwater Acute Aquatic Life Criteria For Ammonia in mg N/L, Salmonids in the Genus Oncorhynchus Absent
pH	Temperature, Degrees C
pH	0-10	12	14	16	18	20	22	24	26	28	30
6.5	51	44	37	32	27	23	19	16	14	12	9.9
6.6	49	42	36	30	26	22	18	16	13	11	9.5
6.7	46	40	34	29	24	21	18	15	13	11	9.0
6.8	44	38	32	27	23	20	17	14	12	10	8.5
6.9	41	35	30	25	21	18	15	13	11	9.4	7.9
7.0	38	33	28	23	20	17	14	12	10	8.6	7.3
7.1	34	30	25	21	18	15	13	11	9.3	7.9	6.7
7.2	31	27	23	19	16	14	12	9.8	8.3	7.1	6.0
7.3	27	24	20	17	14	12	10	8.7	7.4	6.3	5.3
7.4	24	21	18	15	13	11	9.0	7.7	6.5	5.5	4.7
7.5	21	18	15	13	11	9.2	7.8	6.6	5.6	4.8	4.0
7.6	18	15	13	11	9.3	7.9	6.7	5.7	4.8	4.1	3.5
7.7	15	13	11	9.3	7.9	6.7	5.7	4.8	4.1	3.5	2.9
7.8	13	11	9.3	7.9	6.7	5.6	4.8	4.0	3.4	2.9	2.5
7.9	11	9.1	7.7	6.6	5.6	4.7	4.0	3.4	2.9	2.4	2.1
8.0	8.8	7.6	6.4	5.4	4.6	3.9	3.3	2.8	2.4	2.0	1.7
8.1	7.2	6.3	5.3	4.5	3.8	3.2	2.7	2.3	2.0	1.7	1.4
8.2	6.0	5.2	4.4	3.7	3.1	2.7	2.3	1.9	1.6	1.4	1.2
8.3	4.9	4.3	3.6	3.1	2.6	2.2	1.9	1.6	1.3	1.1	0.96
8.4	4.1	3.5	3.0	2.5	2.1	1.8	1.5	1.3	1.1	0.93	0.79
8.5	3.3	2.9	2.4	2.1	1.8	1.5	1.3	1.1	0.90	0.77	0.65
8.6	2.8	2.4	2.0	1.7	1.5	1.2	1.0	0.88	0.75	0.63	0.54
8.7	2.3	2.0	1.7	1.4	1.2	1.0	0.87	0.74	0.62	0.53	0.45
8.8	1.9	1.7	1.4	1.2	1.0	0.86	0.73	0.62	0.52	0.44	0.37
8.9	1.6	1.4	1.2	1.0	0.85	0.72	0.61	0.52	0.44	0.37	0.32
9.0	1.4	1.2	1.0	0.86	0.73	0.62	0.52	0.44	0.37	0.32	0.27

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25

Env-Wq 1703.26 Freshwater Chronic Aquatic Life Criteria For Ammonia.

(a) Subject to (b) through (d), below, Table 1703-4C shall be used to determine freshwater chronic aquatic life criteria for ammonia, in mg N/L.

(b) The freshwater chronic water quality criteria for ammonia in Table 1703-4C have been calculated by adding the value found by dividing 0.0278 by the sum of one plus 10 raised to the power of 7.688 minus the pH to the value found by dividing 1.1994 by one plus 10 raised to the power of pH minus 7.688, and multiplying the resulting value by 0.8876 multiplied by the value resulting from multiplying 2.126 by 10 raised to the power of 0.028 times the value of 20 minus the greater of the temperature or 7, as shown in the following equation:

Freshwater Chronic Criteria for Ammonia:

Criteria = 0.8876 x [0.0278/(1+10 ^7.688-pH) + 1.1994/(1+10 ^pH-7.688)] x [2.126 x 10 ^{0.028 x (20-MAX(T,7))}]

Where MAX indicates the greater of the two values separated by a comma.

(c) The chronic criteria in Table 1703-4C represent a 30-day rolling average, but the highest 4-day average within any 30-day averaging period shall not exceed 2.5 times the chronic criteria.

(d) The equation described in (b), above, shall be used to calculate criteria at unlisted pH and temperature values.

(e) Table 1703-4C shall be as follows:

Table 1703-4C: Freshwater Chronic Aquatic Life Criteria For Ammonia in mg N/L
pH	Temperature, Degrees C
pH	0-7	8	10	12	14	16	18	20	22	24	26	28	30
6.5	4.9	4.6	4.1	3.6	3.1	2.8	2.4	2.1	1.9	1.6	1.5	1.3	1.1
6.6	4.8	4.5	4.0	3.5	3.1	2.7	2.4	2.1	1.8	1.6	1.4	1.3	1.1
6.7	4.8	4.5	3.9	3.5	3.0	2.7	2.3	2.1	1.8	1.6	1.4	1.2	1.1
6.8	4.6	4.4	3.8	3.4	3.0	2.6	2.3	2.0	1.8	1.6	1.4	1.2	1.1
6.9	4.5	4.2	3.7	3.3	2.9	2.5	2.2	2.0	1.7	1.5	1.3	1.2	1.0
7.0	4.4	4.1	3.6	3.2	2.8	2.4	2.2	1.9	1.7	1.5	1.3	1.1	0.99
7.1	4.2	3.9	3.5	3.0	2.7	2.3	2.1	1.8	1.6	1.4	1.2	1.1	0.95
7.2	4.0	3.7	3.3	2.9	2.5	2.2	2.0	1.7	1.5	1.3	1.2	1.0	0.90
7.3	3.8	3.5	3.1	2.7	2.4	2.1	1.8	1.6	1.4	1.3	1.1	0.97	0.85
7.4	3.5	3.3	2.9	2.5	2.2	2.0	1.7	1.5	1.3	1.2	1.0	0.90	0.79
7.5	3.2	3.0	2.7	2.3	2.1	1.8	1.6	1.4	1.2	1.1	0.95	0.83	0.73
7.6	2.9	2.8	2.4	2.1	1.9	1.6	1.4	1.3	1.1	0.98	0.86	0.76	0.67
7.7	2.6	2.4	2.2	1.9	1.7	1.5	1.3	1.1	1.0	0.88	0.78	0.68	0.60
7.8	2.3	2.2	1.9	1.7	1.5	1.3	1.2	1.0	0.89	0.79	0.69	0.61	0.53
7.9	2.1	1.9	1.7	1.5	1.3	1.2	1.0	0.89	0.79	0.69	0.61	0.53	0.47
8.0	1.8	1.7	1.5	1.3	1.1	1.0	0.88	0.78	0.68	0.60	0.53	0.44	0.41
8.1	1.5	1.5	1.3	1.1	0.99	0.87	0.76	0.67	0.59	0.52	0.46	0.40	0.35
8.2	1.3	1.2	1.1	0.96	0.84	0.74	0.65	0.57	0.50	0.44	0.39	0.34	0.30
8.3	1.1	1.1	0.93	0.82	0.72	0.63	0.55	0.49	0.43	0.38	0.33	0.29	0.26
8.4	0.95	0.89	0.79	0.69	0.61	0.53	0.47	0.41	0.36	0.32	0.28	0.25	0.22
8.5	0.80	0.75	0.67	0.58	0.51	0.45	0.40	0.35	0.31	0.27	0.24	0.21	0.18
8.6	0.68	0.64	0.56	0.49	0.43	0.38	0.33	0.29	0.26	0.23	0.20	0.18	0.15
8.7	0.57	0.54	0.47	0.42	0.37	0.32	0.28	0.25	0.22	0.19	0.17	0.15	0.13
8.8	0.49	0.46	0.40	0.35	0.31	0.27	0.24	0.21	0.19	0.16	0.14	0.13	0.11
8.9	0.42	0.39	0.34	0.30	0.27	0.23	0.21	0.18	0.16	0.14	0.12	0.11	0.09
9.0	0.36	0.34	0.30	0.26	0.23	0.20	0.18	0.16	0.14	0.12	0.11	0.09	0.08

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25

Env-Wq 1703.27 Saltwater Acute Aquatic Life Criteria for Ammonia at a Salinity of 10 g/kg. The values shown in Table 1703-5 shall be used to determine saltwater acute aquatic life criteria for ammonia, in milligrams of NH₃ per liter (mg NH₃/L), for a salinity of 10 g/kg:

Table 1703-5: Saltwater Acute Aquatic Life Criteria for Ammonia in mg NH3/L; Salinity = 10 g/kg
pH	Temperature (°C)
pH	0	5	10	15	20	25	30	35
7.0	270	191	131	92	62	44	29	21
7.2	175	121	83	58	40	27	19	13
7.4	110	77	52	35	25	17	12	8.3
7.6	69	48	33	23	16	11	7.7	5.6
7.8	44	31	21	15	10	7.1	5.0	3.5
8.0	27	19	13	9.4	6.4	4.6	3.1	2.3
8.2	18	12	8.5	5.8	4.2	2.9	2.1	1.5
8.4	11	7.9	5.4	3.7	2.7	1.9	1.4	1.0
8.6	7.3	5.0	3.5	2.5	1.8	1.3	0.98	0.75
8.8	4.6	3.3	2.3	1.7	1.2	0.92	0.71	0.56
9.0	2.9	2.1	1.5	1.1	0.85	0.67	0.52	0.44

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25

Env-Wq 1703.28 Saltwater Acute Aquatic Life Criteria for Ammonia at a Salinity of 20 g/kg. The values shown in Table 1703-6 shall be used to determine saltwater acute aquatic life criteria for ammonia, in mg NH3 /L, for a salinity of 20 g/kg:

Table 1703-6: Saltwater Acute Aquatic Life Criteria for Ammonia in mg NH3/L; Salinity = 20 g/kg
pH	Temperature (°C)
pH	0	5	10	15	20	25	30	35
7.0	291	200	137	96	64	44	31	21
7.2	183	125	87	60	42	29	20	14
7.4	116	79	54	37	27	18	12	8.7
7.6	73	50	35	23	17	11	7.9	5.6
7.8	46	31	23	15	11	7.5	5.2	3.5
8.0	29	20	14	9.8	6.7	4.8	3.3	2.3
8.2	19	13	8.9	6.2	4.4	3.1	2.1	1.6
8.4	12	8.1	5.6	4.0	2.9	2.0	1.5	1.1
8.6	7.5	5.2	3.7	2.7	1.9	1.4	1.0	0.77
8.8	4.8	3.3	2.5	1.7	1.3	0.94	0.73	0.56
9.0	3.1	2.3	1.6	1.2	0.87	0.69	0.54	0.44

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25

Env-Wq 1703.29 Saltwater Acute Aquatic Life Criteria for Ammonia at a Salinity of 30 g/kg. The values shown in Table 1703-7 shall be used to determine saltwater acute aquatic life criteria for ammonia, in mg NH3 /L, for a salinity of 30 g/kg:

Table 1703-7: Saltwater Acute Aquatic Life Criteria for Ammonia in mg NH3/L; Salinity = 30 g/kg
pH	Temperature (°C)
pH	0	5	10	15	20	25	30	35
7.0	312	208	148	102	71	48	33	23
7.2	196	135	94	64	44	31	21	15
7.4	125	85	58	40	27	19	13	9.4
7.6	79	54	37	25	21	12	8.5	6.0
7.8	50	33	23	16	11	7.9	5.4	3.7
8.0	31	21	15	10	7.3	5.0	3.5	2.5
8.2	20	14	9.6	6.7	4.6	3.3	2.3	1.7
8.4	12.7	8.7	6.0	4.2	2.9	2.1	1.6	1.1
8.6	8.1	5.6	4.0	2.7	2.0	1.4	1.1	0.81
8.8	5.2	3.5	2.5	1.8	1.3	1.0	0.75	0.58
9.0	3.3	2.3	1.7	1.2	0.94	0.71	0.56	0.46

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25

Env-Wq 1703.30 Saltwater Chronic Aquatic Life Criteria for Ammonia at a Salinity of 10 g/kg. The values shown in Table 1703-8 shall be used to determine saltwater chronic aquatic life criteria for ammonia, in mg NH3 /L, for a salinity of 10 g/kg:

Table 1703-8: Saltwater Chronic Aquatic Life Criteria for Ammonia in mg NH₃/L; Salinity = 10 g/kg
pH	Temperature (°C)
pH	0	5	10	15	20	25	30	35
7.0	41	29	20	14	9.4	6.6	4.4	3.1
7.2	26	18	12	8.7	5.9	4.1	2.8	2.0
7.4	17	12	7.8	5.3	3.7	2.6	1.8	1.2
7.6	10	7.2	5.0	3.4	2.4	1.7	1.2	0.84
7.8	6.6	4.7	3.1	2.2	1.5	1.1	0.75	0.53
8.0	4.1	2.9	2.0	1.40	0.97	0.69	0.47	0.34
8.2	2.7	1.8	1.3	0.87	0.62	0.44	0.31	0.23
8.4	1.7	1.2	0.81	0.56	0.41	0.29	0.21	0.16
8.6	1.1	0.75	0.53	0.37	0.27	0.20	0.15	0.11
8.8	0.69	0.50	0.34	0.25	0.18	0.14	0.11	0.08
9.0	0.44	0.31	0.23	0.17	0.13	0.10	0.08	0.07

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25

Env-Wq 1703.31 Saltwater Chronic Aquatic Life Criteria for Ammonia at a Salinity of 20 g/kg. The values shown in Table 1703-9 shall be used to determine saltwater chronic aquatic life criteria for ammonia, in mg NH3 /L, for a salinity of 20 g/kg:

Table 1703-9: Saltwater Chronic Aquatic Life Criteria for Ammonia in mg NH3/L; Salinity = 20 g/kg
pH	Temperature (°C)
pH	0	5	10	15	20	25	30	35
7.0	44	30	21	14	9.7	6.6	4.7	3.1
7.2	27	19	13	9.0	6.2	4.4	3.0	2.1
7.4	18	12	8.1	5.6	4.1	2.7	1.9	1.3
7.6	11	7.5	5.3	3.4	2.5	1.7	1.2	0.84
7.8	6.9	4.7	3.4	2.3	1.6	1.1	0.78	0.53
8.0	4.4	3.0	2.1	1.5	1.0	0.72	0.50	0.34
8.2	2.8	1.9	1.3	0.94	0.66	0.47	0.31	0.24
8.4	1.8	1.2	0.84	0.59	0.44	0.30	0.22	0.16
8.6	1.1	0.78	0.56	0.41	0.28	0.20	0.15	0.12
8.8	0.72	0.50	0.37	0.26	0.19	0.14	0.11	0.08
9.0	0.47	0.34	0.24	0.18	0.13	0.10	0.08	0.07

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25

Env-Wq 1703.32 Saltwater Chronic Aquatic Life Criteria for Ammonia at a Salinity of 30g/kg. The values shown in table 1703-10 shall be used to determine saltwater chronic aquatic life criteria for ammonia, in mg NH3 /L, for a salinity of 30 g/kg:

Table 1703-10: Saltwater Chronic Aquatic Life Criteria for Ammonia in mg NH3/L; Salinity = 30 g/kg
pH	Temperature (°C)
pH	0	5	10	15	20	25	30	35
7.0	47	31	22	15	11	7.2	5.0	3.4
7.2	29	20	14	9.7	6.6	4.7	3.1	2.2
7.4	19	13	8.7	5.9	4.1	2.9	2.0	1.4
7.6	12	8.1	5.6	3.7	3.1	1.8	1.3	0.90
7.8	7.5	5.0	3.4	2.4	1.7	1.2	0.81	0.56
8.0	4.7	3.1	2.2	1.6	1.1	0.75	0.53	0.37
8.2	3.0	2.1	1.4	1.0	0.69	0.50	0.34	0.25
8.4	1.9	1.3	0.90	0.62	0.44	0.31	0.23	0.17
8.6	1.2	0.84	0.59	0.41	0.30	0.22	0.16	0.12
8.8	0.78	0.53	0.37	0.27	0.20	0.15	0.11	0.09
9.0	0.50	0.34	0.26	0.19	0.14	0.11	0.08	0.07

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25

Env-Wq 1703.33 Freshwater Aquatic Life Criteria for Pentachlorophenol.

(a) To calculate the freshwater aquatic life acute criteria, in μg/L, for pentachlorophenol, the exponent “e” shall be raised to the power “x” where “x” is equal to the parenthetical expression 1.005 multiplied by the pH and to which product the value of 4.869 shall be subtracted, as follows:

Acute Criteria = e^x where

x = [ 1.005 (pH) - 4.869 ]

(b) To calculate the freshwater aquatic life chronic criteria, in μg/L, for pentachlorophenol, the exponent “e” shall be raised to the power “x” where “x” is equal to the parenthetical expression 1.005 multiplied by the pH and to which product the value of 5.134 shall be subtracted, as follows:

Chronic Criteria = e^xwhere

x = [ 1.005 (pH) - 5.134 ]

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25

Env-Wq 1703.34 Freshwater Aquatic Life Criteria for Selenium. Compliance with the freshwater aquatic life criteria for selenium shall be determined using egg-ovary fish tissue measurements, if available and applicable, or, in the alternative using, whole-body or muscle fish tissue measurements, if available, and if neither are available then using the water column values shown in Table 1703-11, below, for the freshwater aquatic life protection criteria:

Table 1703-11: Freshwater Selenium Ambient Chronic Water

Quality Criteria for Protection of Aquatic Life

Media

Fish Tissue

Water Column

Measurement

Egg/Ovary

Fish Whole Body

Muscle

Monthly Average Exposure

Intermittent Exposure

Criteria

15.1 mg/kg dw

8.5 mg/kg dw whole body

11.3 mg/kg dw muscle (skinless,

boneless filet)

1.5 µg/L in lentic aquatic systems

3.1 µg/L in lotic aquatic systems

Criteria_{int exp} = [Criteria_{monthly average} – C_bkgrnd(1-f_int)] / f_int

Source. #14203, eff 2-26-25

Env-Wq 1703.35 Notes for Table 1703-11.

(a) Fish tissue measures, egg-ovary and whole-body or muscle, shall be instantaneous measures expressed as steady-state and shall not be exceeded.

(b) Water column values shall be based on the total of the dissolved species of selenium in water. Water column values shall be the applicable criterion in the absence of fish tissue in a steady-state condition and shall not be exceeded more than once in 3-years.

(c) Intermittent exposure criteria (Criteria_{int exp}) shall be the Criteria_monthly average from the monthly measurements, for either lentic or lotic waters, minus the C_bkgrnd which is the average background selenium concentration times one minus the f_int which is the fraction of any 30-day period during which elevated selenium concentrations occur, the difference of which is divided by the f_int.

Source. #14203, eff 2-26-25

PART Env-Wq 1704 ALTERNATIVE SITE-SPECIFIC CRITERIA

Env-Wq 1704.01 Purpose. The purpose of this part is to establish a procedure for determining alternative site-specific criteria in the following cases:

(a) For toxic substances not listed in Env-Wq 1703.21 through Env-Wq 1703.33;

(b) Where site-specific information is available and substantiates the use of different criteria; or

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25

Env-Wq 1704.02 Procedures for Site-Specific Human Health Criteria. The procedure for determining alternative site-specific criteria for the protection of human health shall be as specified in EPA’s “Methodology for Deriving Ambient Water Quality Criteria for the Protection of Human Health,” EPA 822-B-00-004, dated October 2000, and the following accompanying technical support documents, all of which are available as noted in Appendix B:

(a) Volume 1: Risk Assessment”, EPA 822-B-00-005, dated October 2000;

(b) “Volume 2: Development of National Bioaccumulation Factors”, EPA-822-R-03-030, dated December 2003; and

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25

Env-Wq 1704.03 Procedures for Site-Specific Nutrient Criteria.

(a) Subject to the criteria in Env-Wq 1703.14, Env-Wq 1703.25 through 1703.33, and the procedure in Env-Wq 1704.03(b), the following shall be acceptable procedures for determining alternative site-specific nutrient criteria:

(1) Adopting the nutrient target concentration or load from an EPA approved total maximum daily load (TMDL) study pursuant to 40 CFR 130.7;

(2) Adopting the nutrient target concentration or load from an advance restoration plan;

(3) Adopting one of the following federal requirements:

a. Criteria published by EPA pursuant to 33 U.S.C. 1314(a)(1); or

b. The ambient targets and commensurate flows applied in permits issued pursuant to 40 CFR 122;

(4) Approaches in the “Nutrient Criteria Technical Guidance Manual Rivers and Streams”, EPA-822-B-00-002 dated July 2000, available as noted in Appendix B;

(5) Approaches in the “Nutrient Criteria Technical Guidance Manual Lakes and Reservoirs”, EPA-822-B00-001 dated April 2000, available as noted in Appendix B;

(6) Approaches in the “Nutrient Criteria Technical Guidance Manual Estuary and Coastal Marine Waters”, EPA-822-B01-003 dated October 2001, available as noted in Appendix B;

(7) Approaches in the “Nutrient Criteria Technical Guidance Manual Wetlands”, EPA-822-B-08-001 dated June 2008, available as noted in Appendix B; and

(8) Approaches in “Using Stressor-response Relationships to Derive Numeric Nutrient Criteria”, EPA-820-S-10-001 dated November 2010, available as noted in Appendix B.

(b) Modeling conducted to determine alternative site-specific nutrient criteria shall be conducted as specified in EPA’s “Guidance on the Development, Evaluation, and Application of Environmental Models”, EPA-100-K-09-003 dated March 2009, available as noted in Appendix B

Source. #14203, eff 2-26-25

Env-Wq 1704.04 Modifications to Surface Water Quality Standards. If the department determines, based on scientifically valid documentation, that alternative site-specific criteria will protect the existing and designated uses of the waterbody, the department shall revise these rules to incorporate those criteria.

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25 (formerly Env-Wq 1704.03)

PART Env-Wq 1705 PERMITTING RELATED STANDARDS

Env-Wq 1705.01 Assimilative Capacity.

(a) Subject to (b) and Env-Wq 1705.03, below, the department shall hold not less than 10 percent of the assimilative capacity of each surface water in reserve to provide for future needs.

(b) For purposes of combined sewer overflows, the department shall determine compliance based on 99 percent of the assimilative capacity of the receiving surface water.

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25

Env-Wq 1705.02 Dilution and Conditions for Permitting.

(a) The ambient upstream flow used to calculate permit limits shall be as specified in (b) through (g), below.

(b) For tidal waters, the low flow condition shall be equivalent to the conditions that result in a dilution that is exceeded 99 percent of the time.

(c) For non-tidal rivers and streams, permit limits for all human health criteria for carcinogens shall be developed based on the long-term harmonic mean flow, which is the number of daily flow measurements divided by the sum of the reciprocals of the daily flows.

(d) Permit limits to meet nutrient criteria including, but not limited to, nitrogen and phosphorus species, shall be based on the following downstream ambient targets and flows:

(1) The ambient nutrient target used in the reasonable potential analysis conducted pursuant to 40 CFR 122.44(d) shall be based on one of the following methods provided that existing and designated uses are fully protected:

a. Site-specific criteria adopted pursuant to Env-Wq 1704;

b. An EPA approved total maximum daily load (TMDL) study pursuant to 40 CFR 130.7; or

c. One of the following federal requirements if deemed by the department to be protective of all existing and designated uses:

1. Criteria published by EPA pursuant to 33 U.S.C. 1314(a)(1); or

2. Permits issued pursuant to 40 CFR 122; and

(2) The flows for nutrients used in the reasonable potential analysis shall be commensurate to, as applicable:

a. Site-specific nutrient criteria adopted pursuant to Env-Wq 1704;

b. Established conditions for the nutrient target in an EPA approved TMDL;

c. Nutrient target used in criteria published by EPA pursuant to 33 U.S.C. 1314(a)(1); or

d. Nutrient target used in permits issued pursuant to 40 CFR 122.

(e) For non-tidal rivers and streams, permit limits to prevent ammonia toxicity in aquatic life shall be based on a flow equal to the 7Q10 flow.

(f) Nutrient effluent permit limits shall be based on the 7Q10 flow if the nutrient limit is needed to achieve compliance with other water quality criteria that must have permit limits based on the 7Q10 flow in accordance with (g) below.

(g) For non-tidal rivers and streams, permit limits for all non-nutrient aquatic life criteria and human health criteria for non-carcinogens shall be based on the 7Q10 flow except as described in Env-Wq 1705.02(d)(2) through Env-Wq 1705.02(f), above.

(h) To the maximum extent practicable, data used for setting permit limits and calculating reasonable potential pursuant to 40 CFR 122.44(d)(1)(ii) shall be based upon:

(1) Data, modeling, or reasonable estimates of the ambient condition representative in space and time of the limiting conditions as defined in (a) through (g) above, for a particular criterion; and

(2) Data, modeling, or reasonable estimates of the ambient condition representative of the conditions on which a criterion is based.

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16

New. #14203, eff 2-26-25

Env-Wq 1705.03 Restoration Permitting.

(a) Temporary and infrequent impacts resulting from ecological restoration projects approved by the department shall be exempt from the assimilative capacity requirements of Env-Wq 1705.01 and dilution requirements of Env-Wq 1705.02.

(b) Any water quality or water quantity impacts from ecological restoration projects approved by the department shall be minimized to the extent practicable.

Source. #14203, eff 2-26-25

PART Env-Wq 1706 SAMPLING AND ANALYSIS

Env-Wq 1706.01 Procedures.

(a) Unless alternative procedures are specified in the surface water discharge permit, all procedures used for the purpose of collecting, preserving, and analyzing samples shall be as specified in 40 CFR Part 136 for wastewater and 40 CFR Part 141 for drinking water.

(b) All methods approved in 40 CFR 136 for bacteria testing, as well as analytical methods approved for use in national shellfish sanitation programs as specified pursuant to RSA 485-A:8, V, shall be approved methods for NPDES permit compliance.

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25

PART Env-Wq 1707 MIXING ZONES

Env-Wq 1707.01 Designation of Mixing Zones.

(a) Because RSA 485-A:8, I prohibits the discharge of any sewage or other wastes into class A waters, mixing zones shall be prohibited in such waters.

(b) For class B waters, the department shall designate a limited area or volume of the surface water as a mixing zone if the applicant provides sufficient scientifically valid documentation to allow the department to independently determine that all criteria in Env-Wq 1707.02 have been met.

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25

Env-Wq 1707.02 Criteria for Approval of Mixing Zones. The department shall not approve a mixing zone unless the proposed mixing zone:

(a) Meets the criteria in Env-Wq 1703.03(c)(1);

(b) Does not interfere with biological communities or populations of indigenous species;

(d) Allows a zone of passage for swimming and drifting organisms;

(e) Does not interfere with existing and designated uses of the surface water;

(f) Does not impinge upon spawning grounds or nursery areas, or both, of any indigenous aquatic species;

(g) Does not result in the mortality of any plants, animals, humans, or aquatic life within the mixing zone;

(h) Does not exceed the chronic toxicity value of 1.0 TUc at the mixing zone boundary; and

(i) Does not result in an overlap with another mixing zone.

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25

Env-Wq 1707.03 Conditions for Mixing Zones. If the department approves a mixing zone, the department shall include such conditions as are needed to ensure that the criteria on which the approval is based are met.

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25

Env-Wq 1707.04 Technical Standards. Mixing zones shall be established in accordance with “Technical Support Document for Water Quality-based Toxics Control”, EPA/505/2-90-001, dated March 1991, available as noted in Appendix B.

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25

PART Env-Wq 1708 ANTIDEGRADATION

Env-Wq 1708.01 Purpose. The purpose of these antidegradation rules is to ensure that the following requirements of 40 CFR 131.12 are met:

(a) Existing uses and the level of water quality necessary to protect the existing uses shall be maintained and protected;

(b) Where the quality of a surface water exceeds the level necessary to support recreation in and on the water and propagation of fish, shellfish, and wildlife, such quality shall be maintained and protected, subject to the following:

(1) The department shall not approve a proposed discharge or activity that would cause a significant change in water quality as specified in Env-Wq 1708.09 unless the department finds, after full satisfaction of the intergovernmental coordination and public participation requirements and the analysis required by Env-Wq 1708.10, that allowing lower water quality is necessary to accommodate important economic or social development in the area in which the surface water is located; and

(2) The department shall not approve any proposed discharge or activity that might cause degradation or lower water quality, without such conditions as are necessary to ensure that:

a. Water quality will be adequate to fully protect existing uses;

b. The highest statutory and regulatory requirements will be achieved for all new and existing point sources; and

c. All cost effective and reasonable best management practices for nonpoint source control will be implemented;

(c) Where high quality waters constitute an outstanding resource waters (ORW), that water quality shall be maintained and protected; and

(d) In those cases where a potential water quality impairment is associated with a thermal discharge, the antidegradation rules shall ensure that the requirements of Section 316 of the Clean Water Act are met.

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25

Env-Wq 1708.02 Applicability. Antidegradation shall apply to:

(a) Any proposed new or increased activity, including point source and nonpoint source discharges of pollutants, that would lower water quality or adversely affect existing or designated uses;

(b) Any proposed increase in loadings to a waterbody when the proposal is associated with existing activities;

(d) Any hydrologic modifications, such as dam construction and water withdrawals.

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25

Env-Wq 1708.03 Protection of Existing Uses.

(a) A proposed discharge or activity shall not eliminate any existing uses or the water quality needed to maintain and protect those uses.

(b) The department shall determine the existing uses for the waters in question using the information provided pursuant to Env-Wq 1708.07.

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25

Env-Wq 1708.04 Protection of Water Quality in ORW.

(a) Surface waters of national forests and surface waters designated as natural under RSA 483:7-a, I, shall be considered outstanding resource waters (ORW).

(b) Subject to (c), below, water quality shall be maintained and protected in surface waters that constitute ORW.

(1) The discharge or activity will result in no more than temporary and short-term changes in water quality, wherein “temporary and short term” means that degradation is limited to the shortest possible time;

(2) The discharge or activity will not permanently degrade water quality or result at any time in water quality lower than that necessary to protect the existing and designated uses in the ORW; and

(3) All practical means of minimizing water quality degradation are implemented.

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25

Env-Wq 1708.05 Protection of Class A Waters.

(a) As specified in RSA 485-A:8, I, discharges of sewage or waste to class A waters shall be prohibited.

(b) Proposed new or increased activities that the department determines do not involve the discharge of sewage or waste shall be reviewed in accordance with this part.

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25

Env-Wq 1708.06 Protection of Water Quality in High Quality Waters.

(a) Subject to (b) through (d), below, high quality waters shall be maintained and protected.

(b) The department shall evaluate and authorize insignificant changes in water quality as specified in Env-Wq 1708.09.

(c) The department shall allow degradation of significant increments of water quality, as determined in accordance with Env-Wq 1708.09, in high quality waters only if the applicant can demonstrate to the department, in accordance with Env-Wq 1708.10, that allowing the water quality degradation is necessary to accommodate important economic or social development in the area in which the receiving waters are located.

(d) If the waterbody is class A water, the requirements of Env-Wq 1708.05 also shall apply.

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25

Env-Wq 1708.07 Submittal of Data. The applicant shall provide all information necessary to:

(a) Identify all existing uses, including:

(1) Freshwater, estuarine, and marine aquatic life present in the affected surface waters;

(2) Other wildlife that use or otherwise are dependent on the affected surface waters;

(3) Presence of water quality and physical habitat that support, or would support, aquatic life or other animal or plant life;

(4) Presence of indigenous species and communities;

(5) Presence of a specialized use of the waterbody, such as a spawning area or as a habitat for a federally- or state-listed threatened or endangered species;

(6) Use of the surface waters for recreation in or on the water, such as fishing, swimming, and boating, or use of the surface waters for commercial activity; and

(7) Whether or not current conditions or uses of the surface waters conflict with achieving and maintaining goal uses of the CWA at Section 101(a)(2) and the primary CWA objective to restore and maintain the chemical, physical, and biological integrity of the nation’s surface waters;

(b) Determine the level of water quality necessary to maintain and protect all uses identified in (a), above;

(c) Evaluate the potential impacts on existing uses due to the proposed discharge or activity by itself, and in combination with other discharges or activities presently occurring;

(d) Ensure that existing uses and the level of water quality necessary to protect those uses will be maintained and protected;

(e) Evaluate the magnitude, duration, and upstream and downstream extent of any lowering of high quality water due to the proposed discharge or activity by itself, and in combination with other discharges or activities presently occurring;

(f) Evaluate other factors as necessary to determine whether the proposed activity would cause significant or insignificant degradation, in accordance with Env-Wq 1708.09;

(g) If the discharge or activity is determined by the department to be significant, in accordance with Env-Wq 1708.08 and Env-Wq 1708.09, determine if a proposed lowering of water quality is necessary to achieve important economic or social development in accordance with Env-Wq 1708.10; and

(h) Ensure that all water quality criteria applicable to the waterbody in question will not be violated.

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25

Env-Wq 1708.08 Assessing Waterbodies.

(a) The applicant shall characterize the existing water quality and determine whether there is remaining assimilative capacity for each parameter in question.

(b) Existing water quality shall be calculated in accordance with Env-Wq 1705.02, based on point sources discharging at their allowed loadings and the highest loadings anticipated from nonpoint sources.

(c) Where flows will or might be altered, existing conditions shall be established based on the existing maximum allowed water withdrawals or impoundment, diversion, or fluctuation of stream flow, as applicable.

(d) Remaining assimilative capacity shall be evaluated by comparing existing water quality, as specified in (b) and (c), above, to the state’s water quality criteria.

(e) If the type and frequency of the proposed discharge or activity will or might cause the waterbody to be impacted at flows other than those listed in Env-Wq 1705.02, the applicant shall evaluate the impact of the proposed discharge at those other flows.

(f) Subject to (h), below, if the department determines, based on the information submitted, that there is no remaining assimilative capacity for a specific parameter, no further degradation with regard to that parameter shall be allowed.

(g) Subject to (h), below, if the department determines, based on the information submitted, that there is some remaining assimilative capacity, then the department shall proceed in accord with Env-Wq 1708.09.

(h) Determinations made pursuant to (f) or (g), above, shall account for Env-Wq 1705.01, which requires the department to reserve no less than 10% of a surface water’s assimilative capacity.

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25

Env-Wq 1708.09 Significant or Insignificant Determination.

(a) Any discharge or activity that is projected to use 20% or more of the remaining assimilative capacity for a water quality criterion shall be considered a significant lowering of water quality.

(b) The department shall not approve a discharge or activity that will cause a significant lowering of water quality unless the applicant demonstrates, in accordance with Env-Wq 1708.10, that the proposed lowering of water quality is necessary to achieve important economic or social development in the area where the waterbody is located.

(c) Subject to (e), below, any applicant proposing an activity that will cause an insignificant lowering of water quality shall not be required to demonstrate that the activity is necessary to provide important economic or social development, provided the applicant implements best management practices to minimize degradation.

(d) Activities allowed under (c), above shall include, but not be limited to:

(1) Short term or intermittent discharges such as hydrostatic testing of pipelines, fire pump test water, and uncontaminated stormwater discharges or site clean-up activities;

(2) Permanent discharges such as uncontaminated noncontact cooling water, uncontaminated groundwater seepage, or unchlorinated or dechlorinated swimming pool water;

(3) Facilities whose nonpoint source runoff is controlled through the use of best management practices; and

(4) Any discharge or activity that is projected to use less than 20% of the remaining assimilative capacity for a water quality criterion.

(e) If the department determines based on the following factors that the effect of a discharge or activity results in a greater impact to the water quality than that normally found in insignificant discharges or activities, the department shall determine that the proposed activity or discharge is significant, regardless of the proposed consumption of the remaining assimilative capacity, and require the applicant to demonstrate, in accordance with Env-Wq 1708.10, that a lowering of water quality is necessary to achieve an important economic or social development:

(1) The magnitude, duration, and spatial extent of the proposed change in water quality;

(2) The cumulative lowering of water quality over time resulting from the proposed activity in combination with previously approved activities;

(3) The possible additive or synergistic effects of the activity in combination with existing activities;

(4) The magnitude of the mass load independent of the total assimilative capacity or change in receiving water pollutant concentration;

(5) The toxic or bioaccumulative characteristics of the pollutant(s) in question;

(6) The potential to stress sensitive biological resources such as indigenous species, rare species, and threatened or endangered species and their habitat;

(7) The potential to stress sensitive recreational uses or water supply uses; or

(8) The quality and value of the resource.

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25

Env-Wq 1708.10 Alternatives Analysis; Determination of Net Economic or Social Benefits.

(a) For purposes of this section, the following definitions shall apply:

(1) “Activity” means any of the activities listed in Env-Wq 1708.02 as being subject to this part, including all associated construction;

(2) “Area in which the waterbody is located” means the directly affected municipality(ies) and, if necessary to quantify the net social and economic benefits of the activity, one or more of the municipalities that abut the directly affected municipality(ies), as determined by the applicant in consultation with the department;

(3) “Directly affected municipality(ies)” means the municipality or municipalities in which the waterbody that will be impacted by the activity is located; and

(4) “High value resource” means a natural or developed resource that is of particular value to the nation, region, state, or area in which the waterbody is located, including but not limited to state- or federally-listed threatened or endangered species, state or federal parks, public freshwater or saltwater beaches, and lands that are subject to conservation easements.

(b) For any activity that is determined to result in a significant impact to the existing water quality pursuant to Env-Wq 1708.09, the applicant shall provide documentation in accordance with (c) through (f), below, to demonstrate that:

(1) Lowering the water quality is necessary to accommodate the activity;

(2) The activity will provide net economic or social benefits in the area in which the waterbody is located; and

(3) The net social and economic benefits of constructing and operating or otherwise engaging in the activity outweigh the environmental impact that could be caused by the lower water quality.

(c) To determine whether the criteria specified in (b)(1)-(3), above, have been met, the applicant shall complete an alternatives analysis as described in (d), below, and submit the analysis and a request for approval of the preferred alternative to the department together with technically and scientifically valid supporting information.

(d) The alternatives analysis required by (c), above, shall describe the net social and economic benefits, as described in (e), below, and the water quality impacts, as described in (f), below, of constructing and operating or otherwise engaging in the activity and all practicable alternatives, including but not limited to the following:

(1) Alternative methods of production or operation;

(2) Improved process controls;

(3) Water conservation practices;

(4) Wastewater minimization technologies;

(5) Non-discharging alternatives;

(6) Improved wastewater facility operation;

(7) Alternative methods of treatment, including advanced treatment beyond applicable technology requirements of the Clean Water Act;

(8) Alternative sites, and associated water quality impacts at those sites; and

(9) For activities that involve alteration of terrain, alternative site design that incorporates low impact development elements, including but not limited to creating less impermeable area or infiltrating or reusing stormwater.

(e) To determine whether the activity will provide net social and economic benefits in the area in which the waterbody is located, the applicant shall submit information on, and the department shall evaluate, each of the following:

(1) Whether the activity is consistent with municipal and regional master plans and economic development strategies; and

(2) An explanation of the effect that constructing and operating or otherwise engaging in the activity will have, or an explanation of why there will be no effect, on the following factors:

a. Public and social services;

b. Public health and safety;

c. Employment;

d. Tourism and recreation; and

e. Other social or economic factors that are specific to the area in which the waterbody is located.

(f) To determine the environmental impacts of lower water quality, the applicant shall submit information on, and the department shall evaluate, each of the following:

(1) Relative to designated uses, the sensitivity of existing and designated uses to the effects of constructing and operating or otherwise engaging in of the activity;

(2) Relative to pollutants, whether any pollutants are expected to be discharged as a result of constructing and operating or otherwise engaging in the activity and, if so, the nature of the pollutants and the anticipated fate and transport of the pollutants in the waterbody;

(3) Relative to water quality, whether water quality is expected to change as a result of constructing and operating or otherwise engaging in activity, and if so, the estimated degree of change in water quality;

(4) Relative to high value resources, whether any high value resources are present that would be affected by constructing and operating or otherwise engaging in the activity, and if so, the degree to which such resources are expected to be affected;

(5) Relative to flow characteristics or hydrologic modifications, whether any alterations to existing flows or other hydrologic modifications are expected as a result of constructing and operating or otherwise engaging in the proposed activity, and if so, the impacts of such alterations or modifications;

(6) Relative to water treatment technology, whether the activity incorporates any such technology other than passive stormwater treatment best management practices and, if so, the reliability of the treatment technology proposed, and the risk management plan for non-standard situations such as accidents, upsets, or failures; and

(7) Relative to any other factors that are specific to the affected waterbody or the area in which the waterbody is located, a description of the factor and an explanation of the effect of constructing and operating or otherwise engaging in the proposed activity on that factor.

(g) After reviewing the information submitted pursuant to (c) through (f), above, the department shall make a preliminary determination to:

(1) Approve the request, if it determines that the criteria specified in (b)(1)-(3), above, have been met; or

(2) Deny the request, if it determines that the criteria specified in (b)(1)-(3), above, have not been met.

(h) If the department’s preliminary determination is to approve the applicant’s request, the department shall provide the opportunity for public comment on its preliminary decision in accordance with Env-Wq 1708.11.

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25

Env-Wq 1708.11 Public Participation and Intergovernmental Coordination.

(a) The department shall provide the opportunity for public comment and an opportunity to request a public hearing on preliminary decisions to allow any significant lowering of water quality determined in accordance with Env-Wq 1708.09(b) or (e).

(b) The department shall issue a written notice to the public, the municipality in which the activity is located or proposed to be located, and all potentially affected municipalities of a preliminary decision to allow a significant lowering of water quality.

(1) Invite written comments to be submitted to the department;

(2) Be posted by the department on its website and in at least one public place in the municipality in which the proposed activity will occur;

(3) Contain the information specified in (d), below; and

(4) For activities related to state surface water discharge permits, be a part of the normal public participation procedures associated with the issuance of the permit.

(d) The notice provided pursuant to (b), above, shall include the following information:

(1) A description of the proposed activity;

(2) A description of each surface water that would be affected and its use classification;

(3) A summary of the antidegradation provisions in these rules;

(4) A determination that existing uses and the water quality necessary thereto will be maintained and protected;

(5) A summary of the expected impacts on high quality waters, if any;

(6) A determination that where a lowering of water quality is allowed, all applicable water quality criteria will be met, designated uses will be protected, and any higher water quality achievable by the most stringent applicable technology-based requirements will be maintained;

(7) A summary of any other information that is relevant to how the activity complies or does not comply with the requirements of these rules;

(8) The summary of the important economic or social development that will be achieved by allowing the proposed activity, if applicable;

(9) A summary of the alternatives analysis and a finding that the lowering of water quality is necessary to provide a net economic and social benefit;

(10) The deadlines for submitting a request for public hearing and submitting written comments; and

(11) The name, address, and telephone number of the department employee to whom all written comments or requests for public hearing can be sent.

(e) To fulfill intergovernmental coordination, the department shall send a copy of the public notice to the following agencies and request comments:

(1) NH department of natural and cultural resources;

(2) NH department of health and human services;

(3) NH fish and game department;

(4) NH department of energy;

(5) Local river management advisory committees, if applicable;

(6) US EPA Region I;

(7) US Army Corps of Engineers;

(8) US Fish and Wildlife Service;

(9) National Marine Fisheries Service;

(10) National Park Service; and

(11) Natural Resources Conservation Service.

(f) The department shall:

(1) Prepare a summary of all comments received as a result of public participation and intergovernmental coordination and provide responses; and

(2) Post the summary of comments and responses on its website.

(g) If the department receives a request to hold a public hearing, the department shall issue public notice and conduct a public hearing in accordance with the provisions of Env-C 200 that apply to non-adjudicative proceedings.

(h) Following this public participation process, the department shall consider all comments and other information submitted during the process and make a final decision to allow or deny the proposed impact on water quality.

(i) The department shall notify the applicant in writing of its decision. If the application is denied and the applicant wishes to pursue the project, the applicant shall:

(1) Revise the submittal to decrease or eliminate the projected impact to high quality waters and resubmit the application for consideration under the full review process; or

(2) Appeal the decision as a permitting decision pursuant to RSA 21-O:14.

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25

Env-Wq 1708.12 Transfer of Water.

(a) In this section, “transfer” means the intentional conveyance of water from one surface water to another surface water for the purpose of increasing the volume of water available in the receiving surface water. The term does not include the transfer of stormwater, for the purpose of managing stormwater during construction, between basins created or otherwise lawfully used for stormwater detention or treatment, or both, and does not include the discharge of stormwater from a detention or treatment basin to a surface water.

(b) A transfer shall be subject to (c) and (d), below, if one or more of the following apply:

(1) The transfer was not in active operation, as determined pursuant to (f) through (i), below, prior to the effective date of the 2011 readoption of this section, August 23, 2011;

(2) The transfer is causing or contributing to a violation of surface water quality standards in the source water or receiving water; or

(3) A change that could impact any designated use of the source water or receiving water is made to the transfer on or after August 23, 2011 such that a water quality certification is required under RSA 485-A:12, III or IV.

(c) The transfer of water from one surface water to another shall be allowed only if all of the following conditions are met:

(1) The transferred water does not contain exotic aquatic species or other species of aquatic life that could result in a violation of Env-Wq 1703.19, relative to the integrity of the biological and aquatic community, in the receiving water;

(2) Existing and designated uses will be maintained and supported in the source water and in the receiving water;

(3) The withdrawal from the source water and transfer to the receiving water either:

a. Will not result in any degradation of water quality; or

b. Have both been reviewed under the process specified in Env-Wq 1708.10 and determined by the department to meet the criteria specified for approval in Env-Wq 1708.10(b)(1)-(3); and

(4) A water conservation plan that meets the water conservation requirements set forth in Env-Wq 2101 has been approved by the department and is being complied with.

(d) Transferred water may be treated to comply with the requirements of this section.

(e) The transfer of water shall not constitute a discharge under RSA 485-A:8, I, or RSA 485-A:13, I(a) if:

(1) The transfer is not subject to (c) and (d), above, pursuant to (b), above; or

(2) All of the conditions specified in (c), above, are met.

(f) A transfer shall be deemed to have been in active operation prior to August 23, 2011 if all of the following are true:

(1) The infrastructure necessary for the transfer is in place and in usable condition;

(2) Water has been transferred for at least one day in each of at least 3 years from 2000 through 2011; and

(3) At the time of its original initiation, the transfer complied with applicable legal requirements.

(g) If a transfer does not meet the conditions specified in (f), above, the person responsible for the transfer may request the department to make a determination that the transfer was in active operation by submitting the following information in writing:

(1) The reason(s) why the infrastructure necessary for the transfer is not in place or is not in usable condition, if applicable;

(2) The total time span, in years, over which the transfer has occurred from the first known transfer to the present;

(3) The most recent year during which the transfer occurred; and

(4) Why, based on the information provided in (1)-(3), above, the department should determine that the transfer qualifies as a transfer that was in active operation prior to August 23, 2011.

(h) If the department determines, based on information provided pursuant to (g), above, that the person responsible for the transfer makes a defendable case that the transfer qualifies as a transfer that was in active operation prior to August 23, 2011, then the department shall make that determination.

(i) The department shall notify the person who requested a determination pursuant to (g), above, in writing of its decision.

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25

PART Env-Wq 1709 CHANGE IN DESIGNATED USES

Env-Wq 1709.01 Definition. For purposes of this part, “change in designated use” means the removal of a designated use that is not an existing use, or the establishment of subcategories of a designated use.

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25

Env-Wq 1709.02 Use Attainability Analysis Required. Before determining whether to propose a change in designated use, the department shall conduct a use attainability analysis in accordance with 40 CFR § 131.10.

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25

Env-Wq 1709.03 Process to Propose Change in Designated Use.

(a) Based on the information obtained as a result of the use attainability analysis performed pursuant to Env-Wq 1709.02, the department shall determine whether a change in a designated use should be proposed as specified in (b), below.

(b) The department shall make the determination required by (a), above, when attaining a designated use is not feasible based on 40 CFR 131.10(g), as reprinted in Appendix F.

(c) If the department determines that a change in designated use should be proposed, the department shall conduct a non-adjudicative public hearing in accordance with the provisions of Env-C 200 applicable to non-adjudicative hearings to receive public comment on the determination.

(d) If the department continues to believe after the public comment period that a change in designated use should be proposed, the department shall propose that the change in designated use be made.

Source. (See Revision Notes #1, #2, and #3 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1700) #12042, eff 12-1-16; ss by #14203, eff 2-26-25

Appendix A: State or Federal Statutes or Regulations Implemented

Rule Section(s)	State Statute or Federal Statute or Regulation Implemented
Env-Wq 1701 (also see specific section listed below)	RSA 485-A:4, V; RSA 485-A:8, VI; 33 U.S.C. 1251 et seq.; 40 CFR § 131.3(o); 40 CFR § 131.14
Env-Wq 1701.03	RSA 485-A:13, I(a); 33 U.S.C. 1251 et seq.; 40 CFR § 122.2; 40 CFR § 122.22; 40 CFR § 122.47
Env-Wq 1701.04	RSA 485-A:13, I(a); 40 CFR § 131.14
Env-Wq 1702	RSA 485-A:4, V; RSA 485-A:8, VI; 33 U.S.C. 1251 et seq.
Env-Wq 1703	RSA 485-A:4, V; RSA 485-A:8, I, II, & III; RSA 485-A:8, VI; 33 U.S.C. 1251 et seq; 40 CFR §131.10
Env-Wq 1704	RSA 485-A:4, V; RSA 485-A:8, VI; 33 U.S.C. 1251 et seq; 40 CFR § 122; 40 CFR § 130.7
Env-Wq 1705	RSA 485-A:4, V; RSA 485-A:6, VII; RSA 485-A:8, VI; RSA 485-A:13, I(a); 33 U.S.C. 1251 et seq.; 33 U.S.C. 1314(a)(1); 40 CFR § 122.44(d); 40 CFR § 122.44(d)(1)(ii); 40 CFR § 130.7
Env-Wq 1706	RSA 485-A:4, V; RSA 485-A:8, VI; 33 U.S.C. 1251 et seq; 40 CFR § 136; 40 CFR § 141
Env-Wq 1707	RSA 485-A:4, V; RSA 485-A:8, VI; 33 U.S.C. 1251 et seq
Env-Wq 1708	RSA 485-A:4, V; RSA 485-A:8, VI; 33 U.S.C. 1251 et seq; 40 CFR § 131.12
Env-Wq 1709	RSA 485-A:4, V; RSA 485-A:8, VI; 33 U.S.C. 1251 et seq; 40 CFR § 131.10; 40 CFR § 131.10(g)
Env-Wq 1701 (also see specific section listed below)	RSA 485-A:4, V; RSA 485-A:8, VI; 33 U.S.C. 1251 et seq.; 40 CFR § 131.3(o); 40 CFR § 131.14
Env-Wq 1701.03	RSA 485-A:13, I(a); 33 U.S.C. 1251 et seq.; 40 CFR § 122.2; 40 CFR § 122.22; 40 CFR § 122.47

Appendix B: Incorporated References

Rule (Env-Wq)	Reference	Obtain At:
1703.05(c)	“EPA Combined Sewer Overflow (CSO) Control Policy”, EPA 830-B-94-001, dated April, 1994	Available at no charge from EPA National Service Center for Environmental Publications at https://www.epa.gov/nscep or directly at https://nepis.epa.gov/Exe/ZyNET.exe/2000407X.TXT?ZyActionD=ZyDocument&Client=EPA&Index=1991+Thru+1994&Docs=&Query=&Time=&EndTime=&SearchMethod=1&TocRestrict=n&Toc=&TocEntry=&QField=&QFieldYear=&QFieldMonth=&QFieldDay=&IntQFieldOp=0&ExtQFieldOp=0&XmlQuery=&File=D%3A%5Czyfiles%5CIndex%20Data%5C91thru94%5CTxt%5C00000011%5C2000407X.txt&User=ANONYMOUS&Password=anonymous&SortMethod=h%7C-&MaximumDocuments=1&FuzzyDegree=0&ImageQuality=r75g8/r75g8/x150y150g16/i425&Display=hpfr&DefSeekPage=x&SearchBack=ZyActionL&Back=ZyActionS&BackDesc=Results%20page&MaximumPages=1&ZyEntry=1&SeekPage=x&ZyPURL
1703.22(d) intro	“Interim Guidance on Determination and Use of Water-Effect Ratios for Metals”, EPA-823-B-94-001, dated February 1994	Available at no charge from EPA National Service Center for Environmental Publications at https://www.epa.gov/nscep or directly at: http://nepis.epa.gov/Exe/ZyNET.exe/20003QI5.TXT?ZyActionD=ZyDocument&Client=EPA&Index=1991+Thru+1994&Docs=&Query=&Time=&EndTime=&SearchMethod=1&TocRestrict=n&Toc=&TocEntry=&QField=&QFieldYear=&QFieldMonth=&QFieldDay=&IntQFieldOp=0&ExtQFieldOp=0&XmlQuery=&File=D%3A\zyfiles\Index%20Data\91thru94\Txt\00000011\20003QI5.txt&User=ANONYMOUS&Password=anonymous&SortMethod=h\|-&MaximumDocuments=1&FuzzyDegree=0&ImageQuality=r75g8/r75g8/x150y150g16/i425&Display=p\|f&DefSeekPage=x&SearchBack=ZyActionL&Back=ZyActionS&BackDesc=Results%20page&MaximumPages=1&ZyEntry=1&SeekPage=x&ZyPURL
1703.22(d) (1)	“Streamlined Water-Effect Ratio procedure for Discharges of Copper”, EPA-822-R-01-005, dated March 2001	Available at no charge from EPA National Service Center for Environmental Publications at https://www.epa.gov/nscep or directly at: https://nepis.epa.gov/Exe/ZyNET.exe/901Q0I00.TXT?ZyActionD=ZyDocument&Client=EPA&Index=2000+Thru+2005&Docs=&Query=&Time=&EndTime=&SearchMethod=1&TocRestrict=n&Toc=&TocEntry=&QField=&QFieldYear=&QFieldMonth=&QFieldDay=&IntQFieldOp=0&ExtQFieldOp=0&XmlQuery=&File=D%3A%5Czyfiles%5CIndex%20Data%5C00thru05%5CTxt%5C00000012%5C901Q0I00.txt&User=ANONYMOUS&Password=anonymous&SortMethod=h%7C-&MaximumDocuments=1&FuzzyDegree=0&ImageQuality=r75g8/r75g8/x150y150g16/i425&Display=hpfr&DefSeekPage=x&SearchBack=ZyActionL&Back=ZyActionS&BackDesc=Results%20page&MaximumPages=1&ZyEntry=1&SeekPage=x&ZyPURL
1703.22(d) (2)	“Aquatic Life Ambient Freshwater Quality Criteria - Copper”, EPA-822-R-07-001, dated February 2007	Available at no charge from EPA National Service Center for Environmental Publications at https://www.epa.gov/nscep or directly at: http://nepis.epa.gov/Exe/ZyNET.exe/P1000PXC.TXT?ZyActionD=ZyDocument&Client=EPA&Index=2006+Thru+2010&Docs=&Query=&Time=&EndTime=&SearchMethod=1&TocRestrict=n&Toc=&TocEntry=&QField=&QFieldYear=&QFieldMonth=&QFieldDay=&IntQFieldOp=0&ExtQFieldOp=0&XmlQuery=&File=D%3A\zyfiles\Index%20Data\06thru10\Txt\00000002\P1000PXC.txt&User=ANONYMOUS&Password=anonymous&SortMethod=h\|-&MaximumDocuments=1&FuzzyDegree=0&ImageQuality=r75g8/r75g8/x150y150g16/i425&Display=p\|f&DefSeekPage=x&SearchBack=ZyActionL&Back=ZyActionS&BackDesc=Results%20page&MaximumPages=1&ZyEntry=1&SeekPage=x&ZyPURL
1703.22(s)(1)	“Final Aquatic Life Ambient Water Quality Criteria For Aluminum”, EPA-822-R-18-001, dated December 2018	Available at no charge from EPA National Service Center for Environmental Publications at https://www.epa.gov/nscep or directly at: https://nepis.epa.gov/Exe/ZyNET.exe/P100VWXJ.txt?ZyActionD=ZyDocument&Client=EPA&Index=2016%20Thru%202020&Docs=&Query=Final%20Aquatic%20Life%20Ambient%20Water%20Quality%20Criteria%20Aluminum%20EPA-822-R-18-001&Time=&EndTime=&SearchMethod=2&TocRestrict=n&Toc=&TocEntry=&QField=&QFieldYear=&QFieldMonth=&QFieldDay=&UseQField=&IntQFieldOp=0&ExtQFieldOp=0&XmlQuery=&File=D%3A%5CZYFILES%5CINDEX%20DATA%5C16THRU20%5CTXT%5C00000010%5CP100VWXJ.txt&User=ANONYMOUS&Password=anonymous&SortMethod=h%7C-&MaximumDocuments=15&FuzzyDegree=0&ImageQuality=r85g16/r85g16/x150y150g16/i500&Display=hpfr&DefSeekPage=&SearchBack=ZyActionL&Back=ZyActionS&BackDesc=Results%20page&MaximumPages=1&ZyEntry=1&SeekPage=#
1703.22(s)(1)a.	The “Aluminum Criteria Calculator V2.0 (Excel)(xlsm)”, dated December 2018	Available at no charge from EPA at https://www.epa.gov/wqc/2018-final-aquatic-life-criteria-aluminum-freshwater
1703.22(s)(2)b.	The “Aluminum Criteria Calculator R Code and Data V2.0”, dated November 15, 2019	Available at no charge from EPA at https://www.epa.gov/wqc/2018-final-aquatic-life-criteria-aluminum-freshwater
1704.02 intro	“Methodology for Deriving Ambient Water Quality Criteria for the Protection of Human Health,” EPA 822-B-00-004, dated October 2000	Available at no charge from EPA National Service Center for Environmental Publications at https://www.epa.gov/nscep or directly at: http://nepis.epa.gov/Exe/ZyNET.exe/20003D2R.TXT?ZyActionD=ZyDocument&Client=EPA&Index=2000+Thru+2005&Docs=&Query=&Time=&EndTime=&SearchMethod=1&TocRestrict=n&Toc=&TocEntry=&QField=&QFieldYear=&QFieldMonth=&QFieldDay=&IntQFieldOp=0&ExtQFieldOp=0&XmlQuery=&File=D%3A\zyfiles\Index%20Data\00thru05\Txt\00000001\20003D2R.txt&User=ANONYMOUS&Password=anonymous&SortMethod=h\|-&MaximumDocuments=1&FuzzyDegree=0&ImageQuality=r75g8/r75g8/x150y150g16/i425&Display=p\|f&DefSeekPage=x&SearchBack=ZyActionL&Back=ZyActionS&BackDesc=Results%20page&MaximumPages=1&ZyEntry=1&SeekPage=x&ZyPURL
1704.02(a)	“Methodology for Deriving Ambient Water Quality Criteria for the Protection of Human Health (2000), Technical Support Document, Volume 1: Risk Assessment”, EPA 822-B-00-005, dated October 2000	Available at no charge from EPA National Service Center for Environmental Publications at https://www.epa.gov/nscep or directly at: http://nepis.epa.gov/Exe/ZyNET.exe/20003D81.TXT?ZyActionD=ZyDocument&Client=EPA&Index=2000+Thru+2005&Docs=&Query=&Time=&EndTime=&SearchMethod=1&TocRestrict=n&Toc=&TocEntry=&QField=&QFieldYear=&QFieldMonth=&QFieldDay=&IntQFieldOp=0&ExtQFieldOp=0&XmlQuery=&File=D%3A\zyfiles\Index%20Data\00thru05\Txt\00000001\20003D81.txt&User=ANONYMOUS&Password=anonymous&SortMethod=h\|-&MaximumDocuments=1&FuzzyDegree=0&ImageQuality=r75g8/r75g8/x150y150g16/i425&Display=p\|f&DefSeekPage=x&SearchBack=ZyActionL&Back=ZyActionS&BackDesc=Results%20page&MaximumPages=1&ZyEntry=1&SeekPage=x&ZyPURL
1704.02(b)	“Methodology for Deriving Ambient Water Quality Criteria for the Protection of Human Health (2000) Technical Support Document Volume 2: Development of National Bioaccumulation Factors”, EPA-822-R-03-030, dated December 2003	Available at no charge from EPA National Service Center for Environmental Publications at https://www.epa.gov/nscep or directly at: http://nepis.epa.gov/Exe/ZyNET.exe/P1005EZQ.TXT?ZyActionD=ZyDocument&Client=EPA&Index=2000+Thru+2005&Docs=&Query=&Time=&EndTime=&SearchMethod=1&TocRestrict=n&Toc=&TocEntry=&QField=&QFieldYear=&QFieldMonth=&QFieldDay=&IntQFieldOp=0&ExtQFieldOp=0&XmlQuery=&File=D%3A\zyfiles\Index%20Data\00thru05\Txt\00000022\P1005EZQ.txt&User=ANONYMOUS&Password=anonymous&SortMethod=h\|-&MaximumDocuments=1&FuzzyDegree=0&ImageQuality=r75g8/r75g8/x150y150g16/i425&Display=p\|f&DefSeekPage=x&SearchBack=ZyActionL&Back=ZyActionS&BackDesc=Results%20page&MaximumPages=1&ZyEntry=1&SeekPage=x&ZyPURL
1704.02(c)	“Methodology for Deriving Ambient Water Quality Criteria for the Protection of Human Health (2000) Technical Support Document Volume 3: Development of Site-Specific Bioaccumulation Factors”, EPA-822-R-09-008, dated September 2009	Available at no charge from EPA National Service Center for Environmental Publications at https://www.epa.gov/nscep or directly at: http://nepis.epa.gov/Exe/ZyNET.exe/P1005CAF.txt?ZyActionD=ZyDocument&Client=EPA&Index=2006%20Thru%202010&Docs=&Query=Methodology%20Deriving%20Ambient%20Water%20Quality%20Criteria%20Protection%20Human%20Health%20&Time=&EndTime=&SearchMethod=2&TocRestrict=n&Toc=&TocEntry=&QField=&QFieldYear=&QFieldMonth=&QFieldDay=&UseQField=&IntQFieldOp=0&ExtQFieldOp=0&XmlQuery=&File=D%3A\ZYFILES\INDEX%20DATA\06THRU10\TXT\00000011\P1005CAF.txt&User=ANONYMOUS&Password=anonymous&SortMethod=f%3Atitle&MaximumDocuments=15&FuzzyDegree=-1&ImageQuality=r85g16/r85g16/x150y150g16/i500&Display=hpfr&DefSeekPage=x&SearchBack=ZyActionE&Back=ZyActionS&BackDesc=Results%20page&MaximumPages=1&ZyEntry=1&SeekPage=x
1704.03(a)(4)	“Nutrient Criteria Technical Guidance Manual Rivers and Streams”, EPA-822-B-00-002 dated July 2000	Available at no charge from EPA National Service Center for Environmental Publications at https://www.epa.gov/nscep or directly at: https://nepis.epa.gov/Exe/ZyNET.exe/20003CVP.txt?ZyActionD=ZyDocument&Client=EPA&Index=2000%20Thru%202005&Docs=&Query=EPA822B00002%20&Time=&EndTime=&SearchMethod=2&TocRestrict=n&Toc=&TocEntry=&QField=&QFieldYear=&QFieldMonth=&QFieldDay=&UseQField=&IntQFieldOp=0&ExtQFieldOp=0&XmlQuery=&File=D%3A%5CZYFILES%5CINDEX%20DATA%5C00THRU05%5CTXT%5C00000001%5C20003CVP.txt&User=ANONYMOUS&Password=anonymous&SortMethod=-%7Ch&MaximumDocuments=15&FuzzyDegree=0&ImageQuality=r85g16/r85g16/x150y150g16/i500&Display=hpfr&DefSeekPage=x&SearchBack=ZyActionL&Back=ZyActionS&BackDesc=Results%20page&MaximumPages=1&ZyEntry=1&SeekPage=x
1704.03(a)(5)	“Nutrient Criteria Technical Guidance Manual Lakes and Reservoirs”, EPA-822-B00-001 dated April 2000	Available at no charge from EPA National Service Center for Environmental Publications at https://www.epa.gov/nscep or directly at: https://nepis.epa.gov/Exe/ZyNET.exe/20003COV.txt?ZyActionD=ZyDocument&Client=EPA&Index=2000%20Thru%202005&Docs=&Query=Nutrient%20Criteria%20Technical%20Guidance%20Manual%20Lakes%20Reservoirs%20&Time=&EndTime=&SearchMethod=2&TocRestrict=n&Toc=&TocEntry=&QField=&QFieldYear=&QFieldMonth=&QFieldDay=&UseQField=&IntQFieldOp=0&ExtQFieldOp=0&XmlQuery=&File=D%3A%5CZYFILES%5CINDEX%20DATA%5C00THRU05%5CTXT%5C00000001%5C20003COV.txt&User=ANONYMOUS&Password=anonymous&SortMethod=-%7Ch&MaximumDocuments=15&FuzzyDegree=0&ImageQuality=r85g16/r85g16/x150y150g16/i500&Display=hpfr&DefSeekPage=x&SearchBack=ZyActionL&Back=ZyActionS&BackDesc=Results%20page&MaximumPages=1&ZyEntry=1&SeekPage=x
1704.03(a)(6)	“Nutrient Criteria Technical Guidance Manual Estuary and Coastal Marine Waters”, EPA-822-B01-003 dated October 2001	Available at no charge from EPA National Service Center for Environmental Publications at https://www.epa.gov/nscep or directly at: https://nepis.epa.gov/Exe/ZyNET.exe/20003FDF.txt?ZyActionD=ZyDocument&Client=EPA&Index=2000%20Thru%202005&Docs=&Query=EPA822B01003%20&Time=&EndTime=&SearchMethod=2&TocRestrict=n&Toc=&TocEntry=&QField=&QFieldYear=&QFieldMonth=&QFieldDay=&UseQField=&IntQFieldOp=0&ExtQFieldOp=0&XmlQuery=&File=D%3A%5CZYFILES%5CINDEX%20DATA%5C00THRU05%5CTXT%5C00000004%5C20003FDF.txt&User=ANONYMOUS&Password=anonymous&SortMethod=-%7Ch&MaximumDocuments=15&FuzzyDegree=0&ImageQuality=r85g16/r85g16/x150y150g16/i500&Display=hpfr&DefSeekPage=x&SearchBack=ZyActionL&Back=ZyActionS&BackDesc=Results%20page&MaximumPages=1&ZyEntry=1&SeekPage=xv
1704.03(a)(7)	“Nutrient Criteria Technical Guidance Manual Wetlands”, EPA-822-B-08-001 dated June 2008	Available at no charge from EPA National Service Center for Environmental Publications at https://www.epa.gov/nscep or directly at: https://nepis.epa.gov/Exe/ZyNET.exe/P1002DY6.txt?ZyActionD=ZyDocument&Client=EPA&Index=2006%20Thru%202010%7C2000%20Thru%202005&Docs=&Query=EPA822B08001%20&Time=&EndTime=&SearchMethod=2&TocRestrict=n&Toc=&TocEntry=&QField=&QFieldYear=&QFieldMonth=&QFieldDay=&UseQField=&IntQFieldOp=0&ExtQFieldOp=0&XmlQuery=&File=D%3A%5CZYFILES%5CINDEX%20DATA%5C06THRU10%5CTXT%5C00000005%5CP1002DY6.txt&User=ANONYMOUS&Password=anonymous&SortMethod=-%7Ch&MaximumDocuments=15&FuzzyDegree=0&ImageQuality=r85g16/r85g16/x150y150g16/i500&Display=hpfr&DefSeekPage=x&SearchBack=ZyActionL&Back=ZyActionS&BackDesc=Results%20page&MaximumPages=1&ZyEntry=1&SeekPage=x
1704.03(a)(8)	“Using Stressor-response Relationships to Derive Numeric Nutrient Criteria”, EPA-820-S-10-001 dated November 2010	Available at no charge from EPA National Service Center for Environmental Publications at https://www.epa.gov/nscep or directly at: https://nepis.epa.gov/Exe/ZyNET.exe/P100IK1N.txt?ZyActionD=ZyDocument&Client=EPA&Index=2006%20Thru%202010%7C2000%20Thru%202005&Docs=&Query=EPA822B08001%20&Time=&EndTime=&SearchMethod=2&TocRestrict=n&Toc=&TocEntry=&QField=&QFieldYear=&QFieldMonth=&QFieldDay=&UseQField=&IntQFieldOp=0&ExtQFieldOp=0&XmlQuery=&File=D%3A%5CZYFILES%5CINDEX%20DATA%5C06THRU10%5CTXT%5C00000034%5CP100IK1N.txt&User=ANONYMOUS&Password=anonymous&SortMethod=-%7Ch&MaximumDocuments=15&FuzzyDegree=0&ImageQuality=r85g16/r85g16/x150y150g16/i500&Display=hpfr&DefSeekPage=x&SearchBack=ZyActionL&Back=ZyActionS&BackDesc=Results%20page&MaximumPages=1&ZyEntry=1&SeekPage=x
1704.03(b)	“Guidance on the Development, Evaluation, and Application of Environmental Models”, EPA-100-K-09-003 dated March 2009	Available at no charge from EPA National Service Center for Environmental Publications at https://www.epa.gov/nscep or directly at: https://nepis.epa.gov/Exe/ZyNET.exe/P1003E4R.txt?ZyActionD=ZyDocument&Client=EPA&Index=2006%20Thru%202010&Docs=&Query=Guidance%20Development%20Evaluation%20Application%20Environmental%20Models%20&Time=&EndTime=&SearchMethod=2&TocRestrict=n&Toc=&TocEntry=&QField=&QFieldYear=&QFieldMonth=&QFieldDay=&UseQField=&IntQFieldOp=0&ExtQFieldOp=0&XmlQuery=&File=D%3A%5CZYFILES%5CINDEX%20DATA%5C06THRU10%5CTXT%5C00000007%5CP1003E4R.txt&User=ANONYMOUS&Password=anonymous&SortMethod=-%7Ch&MaximumDocuments=15&FuzzyDegree=0&ImageQuality=r85g16/r85g16/x150y150g16/i500&Display=hpfr&DefSeekPage=x&SearchBack=ZyActionL&Back=ZyActionS&BackDesc=Results%20page&MaximumPages=1&ZyEntry=1&SeekPage=x
1707.04	“Technical Support Document for Water Quality-based Toxics Control”, EPA/505/2-90-001, dated March 1991	Available at no charge from: https://www3.epa.gov/npdes/pubs/owm0264.pdf

Appendix C: Statutory Definitions

RSA 485-A:2:

VI. “Industrial waste” means any liquid, gaseous or solid waste substance resulting from any process of industry, manufacturing trade or business or from development of any natural resources.

VIII. “Other wastes” means garbage, municipal refuse, decayed wood, sawdust, shavings, bark, lime, ashes, offal, oil, tar, chemicals and other substances other than sewage or industrial wastes, and any other substance harmful to human, animal, fish or aquatic life.

X. “Sewage” means the water-carried waste products from buildings, public or private, together with such groundwater infiltration and surface water as may be present.

XIV. “Surface waters of the state” means perennial and seasonal streams, lakes, ponds, and tidal waters within the jurisdiction of the state, including all streams, lakes, or ponds bordering on the state, marshes, water courses, and other bodies of water, natural or artificial.

XVI. “Waste” means industrial waste and other wastes.

XIX. "Wastewater facilities" means the structures, equipment, and processes required to collect, convey, and treat domestic and industrial wastes, and dispose of the effluent and sludge.

XXIV. "7Q10" means the lowest average flow that occurs for 7 consecutive days on an annual basis with a recurrence interval of once in 10 years on average, expressed in terms of volume per time period.

RSA 482-A:2:

X. “Wetlands” means an area that is inundated or saturated by surface water or groundwater at a frequency and duration sufficient to support, and that under normal conditions does support, a prevalence of vegetation typically adapted for life in saturated soil conditions.

Appendix D: Federal Definitions

40 CFR 122.2:

Pollutant means dredged spoil, solid waste, incinerator residue, filter backwash, sewage, garbage, sewage sludge, munitions, chemical wastes, biological materials, radioactive materials (except those regulated under the Atomic Energy Act of 1954, as amended (42 U.S.C. 2011 et seq.)), heat, wrecked or discarded equipment, rock, sand, cellar dirt and industrial, municipal, and agricultural waste discharged into water. It does not mean:

(a) Sewage from vessels; or

(b) Water, gas, or other material which is injected into a well to facilitate production of oil or gas, or water derived in association with oil and gas production and disposed of in a well, if the well [that is] used either to facilitate production or for disposal purposes is approved by authority of the State in which the well is located, and if the State determines that the injection or disposal will not result in the degradation of ground or surface water resources.

Note: Radioactive materials covered by the Atomic Energy Act are those encompassed in its definition of source, byproduct, or special nuclear materials. Examples of materials not covered include radium and accelerator-produced isotopes. See Train v. Colorado Public Interest Research Group, Inc., 426 U.S. 1 (1976).

Appendix E: Summary of Bacteria Standards from RSA 485-A:8

Type of Waters	Standard
Class A other than designated beach areas	Not more than: (1) A geometric mean based on at least 3 samples obtained over a 60-day period of 47 Escherichia coli (E. coli) per 100 milliliters, unless naturally occurring; or (2) 153 E. coli per 100 milliliters in any one sample, unless naturally occurring.
Class B other than designated beach areas	Not more than: (1) A geometric mean based on at least 3 samples obtained over a 60-day period of 126 E. coli per 100 milliliters, unless naturally occurring; or (2) 406 E. coli per 100 milliliters in any one sample, unless naturally occurring.
Class A or Class B at designated beach areas	Not more than: (1) A geometric mean based on at least 3 samples obtained over a 60-day period of 47 E. coli per 100 milliliters, unless naturally occurring; or (2) 88 E. coli per 100 milliliters in any one sample, unless naturally occurring.
Tidal waters used for swimming	Not more than: (1) A geometric mean based on at least 3 samples obtained over a 60-day period of 35 enterococci per 100 milliliters, unless naturally occurring; or (2) 104 enterococci per 100 milliliters in any one sample, unless naturally occurring.
Tidal waters used for growing or taking of shellfish for human consumption	Same as for tidal waters used for swimming, PLUS must not exceed a geometric mean most probable number (MPN) of 14 organisms per 100 ml for fecal coliform, nor shall more than 10 percent of the samples exceed an MPN of 28 per 100 ml for fecal coliform, or other values of equivalent protection based on sampling and analytical methods used by the department of environmental services shellfish program and approved in the latest revision of the National Shellfish Sanitation Program, Guide For The Control of Molluscan Shellfish.

Appendix F: Criteria for Determination of Change in Designated Use

40 CFR §131.10 Designation of uses.

(g) States may remove a designated use which is not an existing use, as defined in § 131.3, or establish sub-categories of a use if the State can demonstrate that attaining the designated use is not feasible because:

(1) Naturally occurring pollutant concentrations prevent the attainment of the use; or

(2) Natural, ephemeral, intermittent or low flow conditions or water levels prevent the attainment of the use, unless these conditions may be compensated for by the discharge of sufficient volume of effluent discharges without violating State water conservation requirements to enable uses to be met; or

(3) Human caused conditions or sources of pollution prevent the attainment of the use and cannot be remedied or would cause more environmental damage to correct than to leave in place; or

(4) Dams, diversions or other types of hydrologic modifications preclude the attainment of the use, and it is not feasible to restore the water body to its original condition or to operate such modification in a way that would result in the attainment of the use; or

(5) Physical conditions related to the natural features of the water body, such as the lack of a proper substrate, cover, flow, depth, pools, riffles, and the like, unrelated to water quality, preclude attainment of aquatic life protection uses; or

(6) Controls more stringent than those required by sections 301(b) and 306 of the Act would result in substantial and widespread economic and social impact.