The Water Policy Interim Committee (WPIC) of the Montana Legislature welcomes public comment on how the state might assume regulatory activities under federal Section 404 of the Clean Water Act.  At their July 12, 2016 meeting WPIC approved a draft report that includes their findings as well as recommendations that might be adopted.  Recommendations range from encouraging further study to drafting legislation.Senate Joint Resolution 2 directed the WPIC to evaluate local, state and federal permits for waterway projects and to determine if Montana has jurisdiction to regulate Section 404 activities.  The Clean Water Act requires “dredge and fill” permits for those placing material in certain waterways.  The report is available for review on the WPIC website,http://www.leg.mt.gov/water.   Comments may be sent to the WPIC at P.O. Box 201704, Helena, MT  59620-1704 or email to jasonmohr@mt.gov with the subject line, “SJ2 Comments.”    All comments received by 5 p.m. on August 15 will be compiled and reviewed by the WPIC prior to its August 29-30 meeting.  Comments received after that date will be provided at the meeting.  Comments are also welcome in person at the meeting.

For more information, contact Jason Mohr, WPIC staff, at 406-444-1540 or jasonmhor@mt.gov.