PURPOSE OF NOTICE:  The Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) is seeking persons interested in participating in a representative stakeholder group for the purpose of assisting DEQ in the development of guidance for the components of Chesapeake Bay TMDL Action Plans and Local TMDL Action Plans as required under new Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) permits.  (Note:  Currently MS4 permitting is regulated by the Virginia Soil and Water Conservation Board through 4VAC50-60.  This group is being established by DEQ as these regulations will become the responsibility of the State Water Control Board on July 1, 2013, or upon approval of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, whichever is later.)

DEADLINE FOR SUBMITTAL OF REQUESTS: June 3, 2013.

BACKGROUND:  The new MS4 Phase II General Permit contains requirements for meeting the water quality reductions as specified in Virginia’s Phase I and II Watershed Implementation Plans for the Chesapeake Bay TMDL.  This permit goes into effect July 1, 2013.  New Phase I Individual MS4 permits as currently drafted have the same requirements. These permits require that Action Plans be submitted within two years of permit coverage and establish the calculation methodologies to determine required reductions for each permit holder covered by  the Chesapeake Bay TMDL.  However, the regulations do not provide guidance on what will be accepted by DEQ as acceptable reduction calculations.  This guidance will be developed to provide the rationale and expectations that DEQ will utilize to evaluate the Chesapeake Bay TMDL Action Plans as well as methodologies for review of local TMDL Action Plans.   

INTERESTED-PERSONS LIST:  Individuals interested in being on this group are asked to send their name, contact information, and credentials to the contact person listed below.