The state Department of Ecology requires a National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System permit for all fresh fruit packing facilities. They are to be renewed every five years. A general wastewater permit for the fresh fruit packing industry is being updated for 191 facilities across Washington.
The Ecology permits are meant to “provide assurance that fruit packers are protecting nearby lakes, rivers and groundwater when managing the wastewater coming from their facilities,” stated a spokesperson.
This covers companies packing fresh apples, pears, sweet cherries, peaches, prunes, apricots, plums and berries.
“It outlines uniform treatment and disposal methods for the industry,” states Ecology.
A 63 page “fact sheet” about the proposed changes was created by Ecology for companies needing the permit and can be viewed online.
Comments can be made to Ecology through June 17.
