PUB00146 - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

. . II 'I !I . II " Western States Water Council Water Quality Committee San Antonio, Texas October 20, 2005 findings. ShaUll also said he thought it was possible to organize a workshop by late February or early March, in time to develop recommendations for consideration in our meeting with Ben in late March. The Committee concurred with this approach. Good Samaritan Shaun McGrath gave an update on WGA's principles, which should be finalized very soon. He then discussed Good Sam legislation from Udall and Beauprez; and from Salazar and Allard. Roger Gorke gave an update on EPA's program and their recent announcement of a Good Sam initiative. Paul Frohardt said he is looking for two things from Ben: 1) information on what EP A's initiative consists of; and 2) EP A's perspective on the legislative proposals that have been introduced. CAFO Stephen Bernath said Washington's view of CAFO' s is that: 1) there should be really strong enforcement if you get caught without a permit; and 2) if you apply for a permit, you should get one. Is OMB going to support EPA's guidance that came out after the second Circuit Court decision? Will EP A really require states to follow the enforcement strategy (Washington would rather not be that heavy-handed, but would rather have a ramped-up approach to enforcement.) Roger said EP A would have proposed regulations by the end of the year. Stephen B. said we should put this on the list for discussion with Ben Grumbles. Paul F. asked what the level of interest on the Committee is, and whether we want to prepare a state position. Walt said he had a high level of interest. In Utah, the agriculture community is really interested in this issue. Dave Glatt agrees with Walt. Paul Frohardt said he would support having a conference call once the proposed rule is out, to see what the reaction is, and whether there are specific positions the Committee wants to take. Funding Issues Dave Glatt said the challenges for funding are only increasing, particularly with the increased pressure on the federal government to cut spending. At the same time the revenues are decreasing, costs are increasing. We need to maintain funding for core funding. Regarding 319, it is not a "demonstration" program. We rely on it for CW A protections. It is more than ago It targets the resource that needs protection, and it is supported by the local government. It is critical that 319 funding continue. Farm bill funding is also important, but 319 works well in coordination with the Farm biB. Anything we can do to promote Farm bill funding is important. Enforcement is also important. On compliance assistance, EP A disagrees with ND compliance assistance. ND does not understand since they have over 90% compliance. Joan Card suggested adding recission to list of funding concerns. They are sitting on carry-over money, but are waiting to hear from EP A on what their priorities are. Stephen Bernath said that on the issue of SRF funding, Washington has lost a lot this year. What is EP A doing in these times? Walt said, on the issue of the 30-year SRF payback, UT is interested in the longer term loans. Crucial point on 30 year is that they get audited 7