2005 Idaho Code - 39-3601 — DECLARATION OF POLICY AND STATEMENT OF LEGISLATIVE INTENT

                                  TITLE  39
                              HEALTH AND SAFETY
                                  CHAPTER 36
                                WATER QUALITY
    39-3601.  DECLARATION OF POLICY AND STATEMENT OF LEGISLATIVE INTENT. The
legislature, recognizing that surface water is one of the state's most
valuable natural resources, has approved the adoption of water quality
standards and authorized the director of the department of environmental
quality in accordance with the provisions of this chapter, to implement these
standards.  In order to maintain and achieve existing and designated
beneficial uses and to conform to the expressed intent of congress to control
pollution of streams, lakes and other surface waters, the legislature declares
that it is the purpose of this chapter to enhance and preserve the quality and
value of the surface water resources of the state of Idaho, and to define the
responsibilities of public agencies in the control, and monitoring of water
pollution, and, through implementation of this chapter, enhance the state's
economic well-being. In consequence of the benefits resulting to the public
health, welfare and economy, it is hereby declared to be the policy of the
state of Idaho to protect this natural resource by monitoring and controlling
water pollution; to support and aid technical and planning research leading to
the control of water pollution, and to provide financial and technical
assistance to municipalities, soil conservation districts and other agencies
in the control of water pollution. The director, in cooperation with such
other agencies as may be appropriate, shall administer this chapter. It is the
intent of the legislature that the state of Idaho fully meet the goals and
requirements of the federal clean water act and that the rules promulgated
under this chapter not impose requirements beyond those of the federal clean
water act.