Rulemaking in 2006 addressed the following issues:

1. Amended the definition for general use stream segments to eliminate the language that allowed streams that flow as a result of discharges from wastewater treatment facilities to be considered as general use segments and the language that states aquatic life will be protected from acutely toxic conditions only at elevated flows.
   
   
2. Amended warm water aquatic life use designations to the following designations: Class B(WW-1), Class B(WW-2), and Class B(WW-3). The existing Class B(WW) and Class B(LR) waterbodies will be reassigned to Class B(WW-1) and Class B(WW-2), respectively.
   
   
3. Eliminate the protected flow provision in 567 – 61.2(5) and rule-referenced document “Protected Flows for Selected Stream Segments”
   
   
4. Designate all perennial rivers and streams or intermittent streams with perennial pools in Iowa not specifically listed in the Surface Water Classification as Class B(WW-1) waters.
   
   
5. Designate as Class A1 – Primary Contact Recreational Use all of Iowa’s perennial rivers and streams and intermittent streams with perennial pools.

Recently Adopted Final Rules:

• Final: ARC 4897B - Protected Flow, General Use, Rebuttable Presumption Approach, effective March 22, 2006 (*.pdf file)

• Fiscal Impact Statement - "Rebuttable Presumption," August 16, 2005 (*.pdf file)