The Alaska copper water standards update proposal would allow the Department of Environmental Conservation to apply the Biotic Ligand Model statewide. Officials said the BLM uses advanced science to predict copper toxicity, helping set aside specific limits that better protect Alaska’s aquatic life.
The proposal introduces a performance-based method for streamlining evaluations and enabling repeatable processes for water quality management in diverse environmental conditions across Alaska.
DEC confirmed that statewide hardness-based copper criteria will remain unchanged, ensuring existing permit holders and effective stream protections are not disrupted. By adopting the BLM, Alaska can create smarter, more adaptable water quality protections tailored to its unique freshwater habitats’ ecological needs.
