MOUNT VERNON, Wash. (AP) - Washington state ecologists have discussed developing regulation for multiple wastewater treatment plants across the state.
The Skagit-Valley Herald reports that the state Department of Ecology has proposed a potential permit regulating the amount of discharge from treatment plants.
The department says the permit would apply to the Anacortes, La Conner, Mount Vernon and Big Lake treatment plants, including dozens of others in western Washington.
Ecologists say the regulation would require treatment plants to reduce the amount of nutrients released into the water, including nitrogen and carbon found in human waste and soap.
Officials say these nutrients deplete oxygen in the water harming marine life and reducing water quality.
The department is expected to decide whether to proceed with developing the permit following a public comment period scheduled until Oct. 21.
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Information from: Skagit Valley Herald, http://www.skagitvalleyherald.com
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