Proposed rule
Rulemaking contact: Aron Borok, 503-887-1173
On Nov. 21, 2024, in response to a rulemaking petition from Marion County, the Oregon Environmental Quality Commission directed DEQ to start rulemaking proceedings to revise the Three Basin Rule.
The Three Basin Rule provides additional protections beyond those usually provided by the Clean Water Act in three watersheds that are major drinking water sources – the Clackamas, North Santiam and McKenzie basins. The current Three Basin Rule prohibits new or expanded wastewater discharges in these basins, with some specific exceptions. In accordance with EQC's direction, proposed rule revisions would allow DEQ to issue new water quality permits that allow facilities to discharge to these basins under limited circumstances consistent with the stated objectives of the Three Basin Rule.
The rulemaking process includes convening a rule advisory committee to develop the rules, posting draft rules for public comment, holding a public hearing, and propose final rules to the EQC for adoption.