OAR 340-040-0080
Numerical Groundwater Quality Reference Levels and Guidance Levels


(1)

The numerical groundwater quality reference levels and guidance levels contained in Tables 1 through 3 of this Division are to be considered by the Department and the public in weighing the significance of a particular chemical concentration, and in determining the level of remedial action necessary to restore contaminated groundwater for human consumption. They are not to be construed as acceptable groundwater quality management goals. They are to be used by the Director and the EQC in establishing permit-specific and remedial action concentration limits according to the requirements of OAR 340-040-0030 (Permitted Operations) through 340-040-0060 (Non-Permitted Activities). [Note: View a PDF of the tables by clicking on the “Tables” link at the end of OAR 340-040-0020 (General Policies).]

(2)

The Department shall periodically review information as it becomes available for establishing new numerical groundwater quality reference levels and guidance levels, and to ensure consistency with other statutorily mandated standards.

(3)

Human consumption is recognized as the highest and best use of groundwater, and the use which usually requires the highest level of water quality. The numerical groundwater quality reference levels listed in Tables 1 and 2 of this Division reflect the suitability of groundwater for human consumption. [Note: View a PDF of the tables by clicking on the “Tables” link at the end of OAR 340-040-0020 (General Policies).]

(4)

The numerical groundwater quality guidance levels listed in Table 3 of this Division are for contaminants which do not adversely impact human health at the given concentrations. At considerably higher concentrations, human health implications may exist. These guidance levels are for contaminants that primarily affect the aesthetic qualities relating to the public acceptance of drinking water. The aesthetic degradation of groundwater may impair its beneficial use. [Note: View a PDF of the tables by clicking on the “Tables” link at the end of OAR 340-040-0020 (General Policies).]

(5)

For pollutant parameters for which numerical groundwater quality reference levels or guidance levels have not been established and listed in Tables 1 through 3, or for evaluating adverse impacts on beneficial uses other than human consumption, the Department shall make use of the most current and scientifically valid information available in determining at what levels pollutants may affect present or potential beneficial uses. Such information shall include, but not be limited to, values set forth in OAR 340-041-0033 (Toxic Substances). [Note: View a PDF of the tables by clicking on the “Tables” link at the end of OAR 340-040-0020 (General Policies).]

Source: Rule 340-040-0080 — Numerical Groundwater Quality Reference Levels and Guidance Levels, https://secure.­sos.­state.­or.­us/oard/view.­action?ruleNumber=340-040-0080.

340‑040‑0001
Preface
340‑040‑0010
Definitions
340‑040‑0020
General Policies
340‑040‑0030
Permitted Operations
340‑040‑0040
Remedial Investigation and Feasibility Study
340‑040‑0050
Selection of the Remedial Action
340‑040‑0060
Non-Permitted Activities
340‑040‑0070
On-Site Sewage Disposal: Area Wide Management
340‑040‑0080
Numerical Groundwater Quality Reference Levels and Guidance Levels
340‑040‑0090
Interim Standards for Maximum Measurable Levels of Contaminants in Groundwater to be Used in the Designation of a Groundwater Management Area
340‑040‑0100
Method and Criteria for Establishment of Maximum Measurable Levels of Contaminants in Groundwater: Statement of Purpose
340‑040‑0105
Method and Criteria for Establishment of Maximum Measurable Levels of Contaminants in Groundwater: Definitions
340‑040‑0108
Method and Criteria for Establishment of Maximum Measurable Levels of Contaminants in Groundwater: General Policies
340‑040‑0110
Method and Criteria for Establishment of Maximum Measurable Levels of Contaminants in Groundwater: Substances Regulated Under These Rules
340‑040‑0120
Method and Criteria for Establishment of Maximum Measurable Levels of Contaminants in Groundwater: Notice of Intent to Propose Contaminants for Adoption of a Maximum Measurable Level
340‑040‑0125
Method and Criteria for Establishment of Maximum Measurable Levels of Contaminants in Groundwater: Methods to Establish Maximum Measurable Levels
340‑040‑0130
Method and Criteria for Establishment of Maximum Measurable Levels of Contaminants in Groundwater: Human Health and Environmental Advisories
340‑040‑0135
Method and Criteria for Establishment of Maximum Measurable Levels of Contaminants in Groundwater: Modification to the Maximum Measurable Level
340‑040‑0140
Wellhead Protection: Statement of Purpose
340‑040‑0150
Wellhead Protection: Definitions
340‑040‑0160
Wellhead Protection: General Policies
340‑040‑0170
Wellhead Protection: Required Elements of A Wellhead Protection Plan
340‑040‑0180
Wellhead Protection: Certification Procedure
340‑040‑0190
Wellhead Protection: Update Procedure
340‑040‑0200
Wellhead Protection: Decertification Procedure
340‑040‑0210
Wellhead Protection: Appeal Procedure
Last Updated

Jun. 8, 2021

Rule 340-040-0080’s source at or​.us