15A NCAC 02B .0223. NUTRIENT SENSITIVE WATERS

(a)  In addition to existing classifications, the Commission may classify any surface waters of the state as nutrient sensitive waters (NSW) upon a finding that such waters are experiencing or are subject to excessive growths of microscopic or macroscopic vegetation. Excessive growths are growths which the Commission determines impair the use of the water for its best usage as determined by the classification applied to such waters.

(b)  NSW may include any or all waters within a particular river basin as the Commission deems necessary to effectively control excessive growths of microscopic or macroscopic vegetation.

(c)  For the purpose of this Rule, the term "nutrients" shall mean phosphorous or nitrogen or any other chemical parameter or combination of parameters which the commission determines to be contributing to excessive growths of microscopic or macroscopic vegetation.

(d)  Those waters additionally classified as nutrient sensitive shall be identified in the appropriate schedule of classifications as referenced in Section .0300 of this Subchapter.

(e)  Nutrient strategies applicable to NSW shall be developed by the Commission to control the magnitude, duration, or frequencies of excessive growths of microscopic or macroscopic vegetation so that the existing and designated uses of the waterbody are protected or restored.

 

History Note:        Authority G.S. 143‑214.1; 143-215.8B;

Eff. October 1, 1995;

Amended Eff. August 1, 2000.