Idaho DEQ News

IPDES Multi-Sector General Permit for Industrial Stormwater Discharges

The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality finalized the Idaho Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (IPDES) Multi-Sector General Permit (MSGP) for stormwater discharges associated with industrial activity. The permit was issued on April 2, 2026, and becomes effective May 2, 2026, replacing the prior 2021 version.

DEQ Awards $1.5M to Lewiston for Wastewater PFAS Treatment

The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality awarded $1,501,280 in low-interest wastewater emerging contaminant construction loan funding to the City of Lewiston. The funding addresses PFAS, pharmaceuticals, and endocrine-disrupting chemicals through infrastructure improvements. The loan carries 0% interest and $1,501,280 in principal forgiveness, representing $2,808,964 in savings compared to municipal general obligation debt.

DEQ Seeks Representatives for Potlatch River Watershed Advisory Group

The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) is seeking six representatives for the Potlatch River Watershed Advisory Group (WAG). The group advises DEQ on water quality improvement plans and implementation guidance for the Potlatch River watershed.

DEQ Seeks Representative for Wood River Watershed Advisory Group

The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) is seeking a representative to fill a vacancy on the Wood River Watershed Advisory Group (WAG). Interested parties must apply by April 20, 2026.

DEQ Seeks Representatives for Walcott Watershed Advisory Group

The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) is seeking representatives for the Walcott Watershed Advisory Group (WAG) to fill vacancies. Interested individuals must apply by April 10, 2026, to serve on the group dedicated to restoring and protecting local watersheds.

DEQ Seeks Livestock Grazing Rep for Middle Snake Watershed Advisory Group

The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) is seeking a representative for the Livestock & Grazing interest area on the Middle Snake Watershed Advisory Group. Interested parties must apply by April 2, 2026.

DEQ awards $3.2M loan for drinking water upgrades

The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) awarded a $3.2 million low-interest drinking water construction loan to the Bailey Creek Homeowners Association in Caribou County. The funding will support upgrades to the booster pump station and the purchase of new equipment.

Idaho DEQ Seeks Forestry Representative for Clearwater Basin Advisory Group

The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) is seeking a representative for the forestry sector to fill a vacancy on the Clearwater Basin Advisory Group. Interested individuals must apply by March 13, 2026.

Idaho DEQ Seeks Agricultural BMP Grant Applications

The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) is accepting applications for its Fiscal Year 2027 State Agricultural Best Management Practices (BMP) Grant Program. The program aims to improve water quality by supporting landowners in modifying agricultural practices to reduce pollution. Applications are open from March 16, 2026, to April 17, 2026.