Document DGYrV5aZ3vqGdmo7V34q0mwEB

56-53* CLEAN WATER REPORT fcitrnn ovi c SEP 1 2 1975 ^cwsj EpV i$FERS UMITED PCB CONTROL GUIDANCE Faoed with growing evidence that leveU of pplychlnrinited biphenyls which repreaent serious health hazards are being detected with increasing frequency in fish and wild* life, and mounting preaaure to do something about the problem, Environmental Protection Agency has greatly ac celerated Its PCB research efforts and is preparing to pro mulgate a water quality criteria level of one part per trillion for PCBs. "EPA oonslden that s PCB concentration of one ppt in the ambient water environment represents an appropriate goal for the nation,*' BPA's toxic substances chief Glenn B. Schweitser has Informed Wisconsin's Department of Natu ral Resources during hearings on PCBs. "We would suggest that this goal serve as very broad guidance in developing strategies on a nationwide basis and locally to control dis charges of PCBs into our waterways." But Schweitser said EPA is "not prepared at this time . to provide more specific guidance on the control strategies that should be adopted nationally or locally oonoeming the regulation of individual dischargers. We are developing e nationwide strategy with i significant component of our approach to be reflected In a toxic effluent standard for PCBs scheduled for proposal early next year. At the same time, we recognize that a nationwide standard might not be adequate in addressing local problems in some areas, and the control strategies adopted locally may of necessity require an elaboration of the national approach." In any event* Schweitzer said, "we believe thet better Information is needed concerning the apedfle facilities dis charging into the aquatic environment before reaching a final Judgment on a national standard." He continued, "U Is important to clarify the portion of the PCB contamina tion problem which can be attributed to specific dis chargers and the practical feasibility of reducing the dis charges." , MGNS 032 789