Section 80. Thermal discharges into lakes and impoundments

In lakes and impoundments receiving thermal discharges, the temperature of the epilimnion, or surface water when there is no stratification, shall not be raised more than 3°C above that which existed before the addition of heat of artificial origin. The board may, on a case-by-case basis, impose a more stringent limit on temperature rise. The increase shall be based on the monthly average of the maximum daily temperature. The temperature of releases from these lakes and impoundments shall be consistent with standards established for the receiving waters. When an applicant for a permit proposes either a discharge of heated effluent into the hypolimnion or the pumping of water from the hypolimnion for return back into the same body of water, such practice shall not be approved unless a special study shows that the practice will not produce adverse effects.

Historical Notes

Derived from VR680-21-01.8, eff. May 20, 1992; amended, Volume 14, Issue 04, eff. December 10, 1997.

Statutory Authority

§ 62.1-44.15(3a) of the Code of Virginia.