The Columbus Junction city council confirmed the date for a public hearing for antidegradation during their regular meeting Wednesday night. According to the Iowa Department of Natural Resources antidegradation refers to the “federal regulations designed to maintain and protect high quality waters and existing water quality in other waters from unnecessary pollution.”

Columbus Junction Community Development Director Mallory Smith explains the town’s role in degradation, “It has to do with the DNR introducing stricter standards for water purity and we need to develop a plan that will meet those stricter standards.” Smith explains that while Columbus Junction previously met the DNR’s standards, they may not meet the permit’s new requirements that take effect this summer.

In regards to the upcoming public hearing, Smith says “It’s developing a feasibility study of the various things that we could do to remain compliant under stricter standards.” Smith said the council has contracted French-Reneker Engineering to perform the study to look at different water treatment options and determine feasibility for Columbus Junction. The public hearing for antidegradation will be held May 24th at the Civic Center.