In August, the EPA announced that they would be reviewing the reservoir component of the Long Term 2 Enhanced Surface Water Treatment Rule (LT2) for New York and its Hillview Reservoir. The rule requires that all surface drinking water systems like Portland build expensive facilities to treat their water for Cryptosporidium, and eliminate or treat any open storage that exists in the system, such as the reservoirs at Mt. Tabor and Washington Park.
In response to the EPA's change in course for New York, Portland quickly submitted correspondence requesting an indefinite suspension of Portland's open reservoir compliance schedule while the EPA considers the rule. If the EPA identifies alternative compliance options under the rule, Portland could avoid up to $145 million or more in associated compliance costs.
As reported by the Oregonian, Senators Merkley and Wyden, along with Representatives Blumenauer, DeFazio, and Schrader continued their strong efforts on behalf of Portland's ratepayers by submitting a joint letter supporting Portland's efforts to gain relief and flexibility from these requirements.
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To read the letter to EPA Administrator Lisa Jackson from Portland's federal delegation, click here.
To read correspondence documenting Portland's efforts seeking relief from the open reservoir requirements of the rule, click here.
For complete information on Portland's LT2 compliance efforts, click here.
