Partial NPDES Primacy
In May 2004, the Legislature passed HB 546, which directed DEC to seek primacy for timber-related wastewater discharges under the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permitting program. However, EPA indicated in October 2004 that it would not be appropriate for the state to seek partial primacy for the timber industry only.

Full NPDES Primacy
From November 2004 through January 2005, a NPDES Primacy Work Group met to weigh the costs and benefits of assuming NPDES primacy for all industrial and municipal wastewater dischargers. The timber sector supports the state assumption of the full National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) program.

On May 10, 2005, the Legislature passed Senate Bill 110. This bill directs DEC to seek and assume primacy for the NPDES wastewater permit program established in the Clean Water Act. Primacy means that DEC will be responsible for issuing NPDES wastewater permits in Alaska. Currently EPA issues NPDES permits which are then certified by DEC.


Renewal of LTF General Permits
In January 2005, DEC entered into a work share agreement with EPA to renew the log transfer facility (LTF) general permits (pre- and post- 1985). These permits were administratively extended by EPA in March 2005. DEC intends to draft Integrated Operating LTF General Permits (GPs) to regulate discharges of bark and wood debris and stormwater. There was little benefit to including domestic wastewater in the Integrated Operationg LFT GP; very few facilities discharge sewage to surface water. EPA will review, public notice, and issue the Integrated Operating LTF General Permits under its authority. DEC will assume full responsibility and authority over the permits at primacy.