Members of Nutrient Science Advisory Committee Named

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 9, 2015


Members of Nutrient Science Advisory Committee Named 
Scientists Will Guide Development of Numeric Nutrient Water Quality Standards

SPRINGFIELD – Illinois EPA Director Lisa Bonnett and Illinois Department of Agriculture Acting Director Warren Goetsch today announced the members of the Nutrient Science Advisory Committee (NSAC).  The NSAC is one of five working groups identified to aid in the implementation of the Illinois Nutrient Loss Reduction Strategy. The science experts will guide the development of nutrient water quality standards to protect aquatic life in Illinois waters.

Members of the Nutrient Science Advisory Committee are:

• Dr. Todd Royer, Indiana University
• Dr. Matt Whiles, Southern Illinois University-Carbondale
• Dr. Walter Hill, University of Illinois and Oak Ridge Laboratory (retired)
• Dr. Candice Bauer, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region 5
• Paul Terrio, United States Geological Survey, Champaign, IL
• Dr. Doug McLaughlin, National Council for Air and Stream Improvement

This group of experts was nominated by stakeholder sectors represented in the Illinois Nutrient Loss Reduction Strategy Policy Working Group.  The NSAC will help guide the Illinois EPA on the development of numeric nutrient water quality standards by determining the numeric criteria most appropriate for Illinois streams and rivers based on the best available science.

The Committee is tasked with the review and analysis of available data, research results, statistical analyses, data from other states, U.S. EPA guidance and other pertinent information. Following the review and analysis, the committee will propose the appropriate numeric nutrient water quality standards for Illinois.  Illinois EPA and stakeholders will develop a plan for implementing the standards. Illinois EPA will then file rulemaking with the Illinois Pollution Control Board for the proposed numeric nutrient water quality standards.

The Illinois Nutrient Loss Reduction Strategy outlines best management practices to reduce nutrient losses from point sources such as wastewater treatment plants and industrial facilities, and non-point sources, including runoff from farm fields and city streets. It uses scientific assessments to target the most critical watersheds and to build upon existing state and industry programs. The goal is to reduce the amount of total phosphorus and nitrate-nitrogen reaching Illinois waters and leaving the state by 45 percent.

The Strategy and additional information is available at: http://www.epa.illinois.gov/topics/water-quality/watershed-management/excess-nutrients/nutrient-loss-reduction-strategy/index.



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