1. (1) The purpose of this subchapter is to prohibit degradation of high quality state waters, except in certain limited circumstances, by implementing the nondegradation policy set forth in 75-5-303 , MCA, and providing criteria and procedures for:

   1. (a) determining which activities will degrade high quality waters;
   2. (b) department review and decision making;
   3. (c) determining the required water quality protection practices if degradation is authorized; and
   4. (d) public review and appeal of department decisions.

Authorizing statute(s): 75-5-301, 75-5-303, MCA

Implementing statute(s): 75-5-301, MCA

History: NEW, 1994 MAR p. 2136, Eff. 8/12/94; TRANS, from DHES, 1996 MAR p. 1499.