The Pikes Peak Area Council of Governments has released a draft of the 2010 Water Quality Management Plan (the 208 Plan) for public comment. The public can access the 208 Plan at www.ppacg.org/downloads/Environment/Water-Quality.As the designated water quality planning agency for El Paso, Teller and Park counties; PPACG is required to prepare and update a Regional Water Quality Management Plan under Section 208 of the Federal Clean Water Act. This plan is commonly referred to as the 208 Plan; it is a planning document – not a regulatory document. The 208 Plan is used to address water quality and environmental related issues and to recommend implementation strategies to restore impaired rivers and streams.Key aspects of the 208 Plan:
- A description and identification of treatment facilities necessary to meet the anticipated municipal wastewater treatment needs of the area until the year 2030
- The identification of nonpoint sources of pollution caused by runoff from mines, agriculture, urban and construction activities, wildfires, hydrologic modification and septic systems
- An identification of agencies necessary to carry out appropriate portions of the 208 Plan
- Description and evaluation of surface water and groundwater quality issues and concerns
- Recommendations to address water quality issues and concerns
