DEQ seeks representatives for Panhandle Basin Advisory Group

August 9, 2024

Contact: Robert Steed, Water Quality Manager, [email protected]

COEUR D'ALENE - The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) is seeking members for the Panhandle Basin Advisory Group (BAG). 

The Panhandle BAG is comprised of citizens, appointed by DEQ's director, who represent stakeholder groups from counties in northern Idaho. The BAG advises DEQ on water quality objectives within Idaho's Panhandle Basin and represents industries and interests directly affected by water quality programs within the basin. 

Representation is currently needed for both the agriculture and water-based recreation groups.

The BAG meets at least three times yearly to advise DEQ on the following matters: 

• Priorities within the basin 
• Revisions needed in the designated beneficial uses for water bodies within the basins 
• Categories to which water bodies in the basin should be assigned 
• Processes for developing and implementing total maximum daily loads 
• Members to be appointed to watershed advisory groups 
• Water quality nonpoint source pollutant reduction priorities throughout the region 

Members must have a demonstrated interest or expertise that will benefit the work of the group. Anyone interested in serving on the BAG as a representative of agriculture or water-based recreation should contact Robert Steed at (208) 769-1422 or [email protected] by September 30, 2024, at 5 p.m. PST.