OLYMPIA - The Washington Department of Ecology (Ecology) invites the public to comment on an updated permit that regulates the use of pesticides to control aquatic weeds and algae in irrigation systems in eastern Washington.

The permit - called the Irrigation System Aquatic Weed Control General Permit - covers 17 irrigation districts in the eastern part of the state. It is required by the Washington State Water Pollution Control Act.

The modified permit would allow the irrigation districts to use the pesticide endothall at a more effective rate so it can be used instead of acrolein. Endothall is a less toxic alternative to acrolein.

The draft permit reduces and eliminates the use of acrolein, where feasible.

The public may review and comment on the proposed draft permit and fact sheet through March 30. The permit, once issued, will modify and renew the current permit that Ecology issued in 2008.

Ecology will host an informational workshop and public hearing on the draft permit at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, March 27, at the Department of Ecology Central Regional Office at 15 West Yakima Ave. Suite 200 in Yakima. The public hearing will immediately follow the workshop.

To submit written comments, ask questions, or request copies of the permit, contact Laurie Morgan, Washington Department of Ecology, P.O. Box 47600, Olympia, WA 98504-7600. Or contact Morgan by phone at 360-407-6483; fax at 360-407-6426; or email at [email protected].

Ecology must receive written, emailed, and faxed comments no later than 5 p.m. on March 30. The draft permit and fact sheet are available online.