Silva: A Lot of Activity at the EPA

On Tuesday, April 13, EPA Assistant Administrator for Water Peter Silva met with agricultural representatives, including ACWA, and outlined the EPA’s priorities in the coming months.

Drinking Water

EPA’s new drinking water strategy was described as regulation of contaminants by groups.  The groups could be pesticides or emerging contaminants of concern such as pharmaceuticals or personnel hygiene products. The strategy includes focusing on new treatment technology development; integrating existing EPA authorities under the Federal Insecticide, Rodenticide, and Fungicide Act and the Safe Drinking Water Act; and using data from states.

ESA Consultation

EPA staff reported that the ESA consultation on aquatic pesticide NPDES general permits is ongoing and difficult. A timetable for concluding the consultation with the fishery services was not given.  The EPA staff said they are working hard to formulate a strategy for cleanup of the Chesapeake Bay that could provide some future national rules, particularly for manure.

Nutrient Standards

Silva, from California, described his recent extensive work on the nutrient standards issue in Florida, particularly with the Everglades. “It’s nice to have a western perspective on the importance of canals and be able to bring it to the attention of the state of Florida,” commented Silva.