NB 181
Feb. 28, 2002
FREDERICTON (CNB) - A new regulation under the Clean Water Act was announced by Environment and Local Government Minister Kim Jardine today. The Water Classification Regulation, which takes effect March 1, will establish water quality classes and associated water quality standards, and outline the administrative processes and requirements related to the classification of water throughout New Brunswick.
"The purpose of the regulation is to classify watercourses according to their water quality, and also to protect or enhance the quality of water we have in New Brunswick," Jardine said. "I believe the Water Classification Program, together with the Wellfield Protection Program and the Watershed Protection Program, is an important step towards integrated watershed management."
The Water Classification Regulation provides a framework for water quality management that enables watershed groups to measure and plan for the quality of the water in rivers, lakes or streams. Water bodies or segments of these water bodies can be classified into one of six classes. Outstanding Natural Waters is a special class for unique or representative water bodies in a natural state. AP is a class for designated municipal drinking water supplies, regulated by the Watershed Protected Area Designation Order. AL is a general lake category. For other rivers and streams, the classification categories include 'A' excellent water quality, 'B' good water quality, and 'C' acceptable water quality.
Each class has specific standards for water quality, biological standards for aquatic life, and management features designed to help achieve or maintain the desired water quality goals.
The process for water classification has several important steps. They include identifying and involving stakeholders, gathering water quality information, assembling land and water use information, setting goals for water quality, and developing and implementing action plans for water quality.
"Public involvement is a cornerstone of the Water Classification Regulation," Jardine said. "This process empowers New Brunswickers at the grassroots level, and brings concerned citizens together with industry to devise a plan that will ensure the quality of surface water in their area is preserved or improved."
When the regulation comes into effect, all lakes will be classified into the AL Class, and all municipal surface drinking water supplies designated under the Watershed Protected Area Designation Order will be classified into the AP Class.
A number of established watershed groups and stakeholders in New Brunswick have been working with staff at the department toward water classification. The St. Croix International Waterway Commission, Eastern Charlotte Waterways Inc., the Hammond River Angling Association and the Tabusintac Watershed Association are among the first groups to develop preliminary water classifications. Once the regulation comes into effect, these groups will be able to present recommendations to the minister on the proposed classifications. The minister will then have the regulatory authority to consult with the public and develop an order based on the recommendations.
The Water Classification Program falls in line with the recently announced Greater Opportunity: New Brunswick's Prosperity Plan, which is also based on creating strategic partnerships, ensuring community participation and improving our standard of living.
Information on the new regulation is available at offices of the Department of the Environment and Local Government, and on the department Web site: http://www.gnb.ca/elg-egl/0372/0006/
02/02/28
MEDIA CONTACTS: Jason Humphrey, communications director, or Vicky Deschênes, communications officer, Environment and Local Government, 506 453-3700.
02/02/28