MDE has opened the 30-day comment period (Sept 6-Oct 7) for cold water stream discharge regulations. 

Last Friday, the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) opened a 30-day comment window to identify and protect streams supporting existing cold water species (like self-sustaining trout populations). The comment period runs from September 6th through October 7th. Currently, 19 protected streams may require additional discharge requirements, and MDE is proposing to add seven additional streams to the list.

This proposed change may impact counties with the majority of cold/cool-water streams, i.e., Carroll, Baltimore, Allegany, Garrett, Howard, Frederick, Harford, and Washington. 

For counties that operate, are looking to expand, or are looking to build wastewater treatment facilities that discharge into protected streams, these proposed changes may significantly impact planning and operations. Additionally, for counties or developers looking to discharge during or after construction, these proposed changes may significantly impact planning and operations.

Please visit the following link for more information and to access the proposed documents: https://mde.maryland.gov/programs/water/TMDL/WaterQualityStandards/Pages/Existing-Use-Determinations.aspx

Counties may request a public hearing. All existing use determinations recommending changes to Use Classifications will also be included within the public comment period and public hearing for the 2025 Triennial Review of Water Quality Standards.

Comments may be sent to Melinda Cutler via email at melinda.cutler@maryland.gov or via mail at the following address:

Ms Melinda Cutler
Watershed Protection, Restoration, and Planning Program
Maryland Department of the Environment
1800 Washington Boulevard
Baltimore, MD 21230-1720