LANSING — The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy seeks public input and comment for a Multiple Discharger Variance for Mercury for fiscal years 2020-2024 prior to submittal to the United States Environmental Protection Agency.

The Multiple Discharger Variance allows eligible National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System permittees to discharge mercury above the standard in recognition that the primary source to Michigan surface waters is due to air deposition, limitations with treatment, and that efforts under previous variances have been successful in reducing or eliminating mercury to the environment.

An informational meeting will be held via an online webinar and in person from 10 to 11 a.m. Wednesday at 525 W. Allegan St., Lansing, followed by a public hearing from 11 a.m. to noon the same day. The meeting and hearing will include an overview of the current draft Multiple Discharger Variance and highlight changes and additions from the previous version. The public will have an opportunity learn more from EGLE staff and provide formal comment.

Comments on the draft Multiple Discharger Variance may also be submitted to Amanda Bosak, Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy, Water Resources Division, P.O. Box 30458, Lansing, MI 48909-7773, by July 25.

For more information, contact: Amanda Bosak, Water Resources Division, at 517-599-9820, or visit the EGLE National Pollutant Discharge Elimination Systems Applicable Rules and Regulations webpage.