Em4885 irrigation management practices to protect ground water

CHAPTER 6
The four options for compliance are:
1. Level 1 - Information/Education/Technical Assistance - the District serves as the
local source of information and education concerning available statewide programs
and plans for protecting water quality. The District can also provide technical
assistance that is applicable to local conditions.
2. Level 2 - Information/Education, Problem Assessment, and Handling Complaints -
this level includes activities described in Level 1. In addition, the District will assess
current and potential water quality problems, prioritize these problems and work to
apply voluntary solutions. They will also participate in the handling of water
quality violation complaints by meeting with the alleged violator and, if desired
by the operator, develop a plan of action which will alleviate the problem. If the
operator refuses assistance the complaint will be referred back to the Department
of Ecology.
3. Level 3 - Information/Education, Problem Assessment, Handling Complaints, and
Assisting in Compliance - this level includes activities described in both Levels 1
and 2. In addition, the District will participate actively in the alleviation of water
quality problems. This includes meeting with the owner/operator, making on-site
assessments of the problem, helping in the development of plans to alleviate the
problem, monitor and provide technical assistance in plan implementation, and
keep Ecology informed of progress.
4. Level 4 - Compliance - this level includes all activities in Levels 1, 2, and 3 as well
as “information and support” to Ecology as required for resolving water quality
problems. “Information and support” includes provision for access to public
information contained in the District’s files, access to District personnel for
interviews, assistance and attendance at negotiating sessions, and affidavits and
testimony necessary to document the case.
The Washington Conservation Commission agrees to provide assistance as appropriate to the
Conservation Districts as well as coordinate District programs at the state level. The Commission
also will serve as a clearinghouse of information concerning the activities and experiences of the
Districts.
Table 6-1 is a list of signatory Conservation Districts in Washington and the compliance level
option they have chosen.
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