The Department of Environmental Protection published notice of several proposed and final policy documents. See details below.

Draft DEP ID: 563-2112-224. Certification Guidelines for the Chemical and Physical Properties of Coal Ash Beneficially Used at Mines. The guidance has been updated to incorporate additional chemical parameters that were recommended by the National Academy of Sciences for sites that receive coal ash. Comments due: November 19.

Draft DEP ID: 563-2112-225. Mine Site Approval for the Beneficial Use of Coal Ash. The Department provides for two beneficial uses of coal ash, placement and soil substitute or soil additive, that can be approved at mine sites as part of the Department's mine reclamation contracts or in other Department approved permitted projects. Comments due: November 19.

Final DEP ID: 383-3301-102. Laboratory Reporting Instructions for Total and Fecal Coliform Bacteria in Public Drinking Water Distribution Systems. This guidance provides instructions to all public water systems and certified laboratories for the reporting of drinking water total and fecal coliform monitoring results as required by the Federal Total Coliform Rule and as implemented under the PA TCR in Chapter 109 of the Pennsylvania Safe Drinking Water Regulations.

Final DEP ID: 562-3900-402. Citizens' Requests: Receiving, Tracking, Investigating, Appealing, and Filing. This document revises the procedures for the investigation of complaints relating to coal and industrial mineral mining activities and the use of explosives.

Final DEP ID: 562-2000-703. Changes to Licenses, Bonds and Permits. This document provides guidance to both Department personnel and mine operators concerning what documents or information need to be submitted and the necessary actions to be taken in the event of changes to a mining company's type of business organization, its ownership or its officers.

For copies of Draft Technical Guidance (DEP website)

For copies of Final Technical Guidance (DEP website)

9/19/2008