To give folks additional time to review and comment on the 2010 draft list of impaired waters and the methodology used to develop the list, the Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM) has extended the public comment period by 30 days, to Feb. 26.

The 2010 Draft 303(d) List of Impaired Waters and the Consolidated Assessment and Listed Methodology are available at www.idem.in.gov/4680.htm

A legal notice announcing the extend public comment period should be published in the Indiana Register on Wednesday.

“IDEM has prepared the list according to Section 303(d) of the 1972 federal Clean Water Act, which requires each state to identify and make public a list of waters that do not meet the state’s water quality standards for designated uses, such as fishing, swimming, or as a drinking water source,” IDEM said in a statement released on Friday.

“IDEM uses the list to determine priorities for further study, community involvement, and grant programs.”

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Comments on the draft may be mailed, hand-delivered, or faxed to: Janet Pittman, Rules Development Branch, Office of Legal Counsel, MC 65-46, Indiana Department of Environmental Management, 100 N. Senate Ave., Indianapolis, IN 46204-2251. Fax: (317) 232-5517.

Posted 1/25/2010