Ecology seeks comments on proposed changes to standards for cleaning up in-water sediments

OLYMPIA - The public is invited to review and comment on draft rule changes to the state's Sediment Management Standards (SMS) for cleaning up contaminated in-water sediments.

The SMS rule is used to conduct environmental cleanup work, manage the dredging of sediment for navigation and cleanup, and manage sources of contamination to sediment from dischargers.

The proposed changes will clarify requirements for cleanup of contaminated sediment sites to make the cleanup process more effective.

Ecology is accepting public comments through Oct. 15. Ecology also will hold several public hearings throughout the state. Those nearest this area will be:

Oct. 3 at 5:30 p.m. at CenterPlace Regional Event Center, 2426 N. Discovery Place, Spokane Valley.

Oct. 4 at 5:30 p.m. at Hampton Inn, 486 Bradley Blvd., Richland.

You may view the proposed rule changes at Ecology's headquarters, 300 Desmond Drive SE, Lacey. Or contact Carol Dorn at 360-407-7224 or Carol.Dorn@ecy.wa.gov for an appointment.

You may submit written comments to Adrienne Dorrah, Washington Department of Ecology, Toxics Cleanup Program, P.O. Box 47600, Olympia, WA 98504-7600. Or email them to RuleUpdate@ecy.wa.gov.

Ecology expects to adopt the rule in late 2012 or early 2013.

- Staff report