The speakers on the panel will provide different perspectives on how ballast water regulation and technology has created the current state of invasive species in the Great Lakes. This workshop will also enable participants to understand the regulatory challenges facing ballast water today while fully appreciating the current state of technology that is rising to the challenge of invaders. This presentation was given by Susan Sylvester, Water Quality Bureau Director, Wisconsin Department of Environmental Quality.

1. Wisconsin s
Regulation of Ballast Water
September 11, 2013
Susan Sylvester, Director
Bureau of Water Quality

2. History
• First propose state permit challenged
• Feasibility Determination in one year
• Ballast Water Collaborative
– Technology of systems
– Barriers for installation
– Compliance monitoring

3. WI s Permit Requirements
• Lakers and Salties
• > 50 m length
• > 8 m³ ballast capacity
• Operating in WI waters

4. Permit
Requirements
(Continued)
Ballast Water and
Sediment Management Plan
• Disposal requirements
• Record keeping
Best Management Practices
Uptake & Discharge
•
•
•
•
Ballast Log Book
Uptake
Discharge
Sediment Disposal
Treatment (reporting)
Re
m
g For
portin

5. Requirements for Salties
• Mid-ocean Ballast Water Exchange/Flushing
– Must have >30 ppt salinity to enter St. Lawrence
Seaway
• Approved treatment system (IMO Standard)
– December 1, 2013 (New Vessels)
– January 1, 2016 (Existing Vessels)
– Or EPA deadlines, if extended
• Biocide discharge limits

6. Water Quality Certification to
EPA Vessel General Permit
Summary of WI Conditions
• Ballast Water Exchange for all Salties
• Must meet WI s water quality standards
• 2013/2016 installation
• Emergency treatment measures
• Test systems for freshwater use
• Monthly visual inspection of systems
• Report all non-compliance

7. BW Regulation:
A Delicate Balance!
Recent ballast water contested cases
• Environmental groups
– Permit not stringent enough
• Shipping companies
– Installation dates too stringent
• Summary Judgment decision 11/29
– Revised treatment requirement dates
– Water Quality Certification to EPA on 11/30/12
Modified Permit Effective November 29, 2012

8. WI s Inspection Program
• Lake Michigan (1)
• Lake Superior (1)
Last shipping season (2012): 72 inspections
Conducted ~ 175 inspections to date

9. Questions?
Susan.Sylvester@Wi.gov