Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ). The 900-J general permit regulates wastewater discharges for most seafood processing facilities in Oregon. The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality must periodically update this permit, known as a National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) general permit, to protect water quality and meet requirements of the U.S. Clean Water Act. DEQ is currently working on a proposed permit renewal, which will be available for public comment Feb. 12-March 29, 2018. Businesses that process seafood in Oregon, including fish and shellfish, will be affected. As of 2017, there were 24 seafood processing facilities that had the 900-J general or an individual National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System permit. In some cases, facilities may need to upgrade to more advanced wastewater treatment systems. Comment on the proposed permit renewal between Feb. 12 – March 29, 2018. Attend a public hearing to learn more and comment: Newport, Wednesday, March 14, 2018, 5:30 p.m., Newport Performing Arts Center, 777 W. Olive Street, Newport; Coos Bay, Thursday, March 15, 2018, 5:30 p.m., Coos History Museum, Lansing Library, 1210 N. Front Street, Coos Bay; Astoria, Monday, March 19, 2018, 5:30 p.m. Clatsop Community College, Columbia Hall – Room 219, 1651 Lexington Ave., Astoria.
