Triennial Review

What is the Triennial Review?

Federal regulations require that states hold public hearings at least once every three years to review applicable surface water quality standards and, as appropriate, adopt new or modified standards, taking into consideration public concerns, EPA guidance, and new scientific and technical information. This process is called a triennial review. The triennial review also provides an opportunity to discuss the priorities and commitments the agency makes with EPA and others regarding surface water quality standards.

The Environmental Regulatory Code version of LAC 33:IX, Water Quality, Subpart 1. Water Pollution Control, Chapter 11 Surface Water Quality Standards, can be accessed electronically at: 

https://www.deq.louisiana.gov/resources/category/regulations-lac-title-33

The Current Triennial Review

The current triennial review cycle started on March 20, 2024. The public hearing was held on April 30, 2024, with the comment period ending on May 7, 2024. On October 20, 2025, the Report of Findings document for this cycle of triennial review was completed. This document (and its associated appendices) can be found at: https://edms.deq.louisiana.gov/app/doc/view?doc=14962832.

The review of Surface Water Quality Standards identified one item necessitating rulemaking; tracking number WQ117 has been assigned for this rulemaking effort. The notice of intent for the proposed rule has been published in the January 2026 edition of the Louisiana Register. The public hearing will be on February 25, 2026 at 1:30PM and public comment period will end at 4:30PM on March 4, 2026.

Please e-mail WQ.Standards@la.gov if you have any questions related to the triennial review.