On 13 June 2014, CSPA and a broad coalition of environmental and fishing groups submitted comments on the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s draft aquatic life ambient water quality criteria for selenium in freshwater. The comments quote from previous scientific reviews and assert that the proposed criteria, based upon whole-body fish tissue concentration, are not adequately protective of aquatic resources and endangered species.
The letter also asks EPA to extend the comment period because 30 days to review 600 pages of highly technical information is simply insufficient time to adequately analyze and prepare comments on whether the criteria meets requirements of the Endangered Species Act, Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act, Migratory Bird Treaty Act, Tribal fish rights and is protective of the health of individuals who consume fish, especially those living in subsistence fishing communities.