Implications of proposed EPA effluent guidelines for Georgia aquatic animal production facilities
Author(s)
Hendrickx, Edward J., Jr.
Advisor(s)
Editor(s)
Hatcher, Kathryn J.
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Abstract
In 1998, the U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency (EPA) announced plans for
developing new and revised effluent guidelines
regulating industrial discharges to surface waters and to
publicly owned treatment works. In 2000 EPA decided
to include aquaculture in the process and in September
of 2002 they released for public comment the proposed
effluent guidelines for aquatic animal production
facilities. EPA is proposing these guidelines to control
the discharge of Total Suspended Solids and also to
limit the release of drugs, chemicals, pathogens and
non-native species. The categories proposed for
consideration include flow-through, recirculating, and
net pens systems producing at least 100,000 pounds of
fish annually. It is estimated by EPA that 4.1 million
pounds of TSS will be eliminated from discharge into
waters of the U.S. and the net result will be a reduction
in BOD and nutrient discharge of 8.7 millions pounds
annually. They estimate an annual economic benefit to
the U.S. of between $22,00-$113,000. Compliance cost
to the industry nationwide is estimated at $1.5 million.
The proposed requirements are assumed to affect 222
facilities nationwide, three of which are in Georgia. The
public comment period on the proposal ends in January
2003. EPA is under a Decree to develop final rules by
2004.
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Date
2003-04
Extent
Resource Type
Text
Resource Subtype
Proceedings