As part of its commitment to seek an alternative to stormwater TMDLs, DENR has also agreed to withhold the Little Alamance Creek TMDL while the workgroup engages in discussions with DENR staff.  This action ensures that similarly flawed TMDLs do not apply to other communities while a discussion takes place.  Once a TMDL is in place, local governments face more restrictive permit terms, which could result in higher expenses to continue providing services such as wastewater treatment and stormwater controls.

 

The League views these efforts with DENR staff as working in tandem with its increased advocacy for more oversight and development of TMDLs by the N.C. Environmental Management Commission (EMC).  Since the League began its discussions with the EMC members, the Commission has heard one presentation on the status of a pending TMDL for High Rock Lake near Salisbury.  And at their September meeting in a few weeks, Commissioners will hear another overview presentation on the state's TMDL program.  We are encouraged by the EMC's interest in TMDL regulation, and we will continue to urge the Commssion to assume a more active role in development of TMDLs.