1(1) In addition to complying with the requirements of Chapters 62-3 and 62-4, F.A.C., and other sections of this rule, the Department shall process permit applications and determine WQBELs in accordance with this section except when the Department has determined that a Level II WQBEL pursuant to Rule 4962-650.500, 50F.A.C., is necessary. The WQBEL Level I Process shall be applied to the renewal of existing permits or issuance of new permits when data are sufficient to determine that the quality of the receiving body of water currently meets standards and is expected to continue to meet standards with the discharge.
101(2) WQBELs shall be determined based on a review of water quality data applicable to the portion of the water body potentially impacted by the discharge. These data may include information contained in permit applications. In addition, existing data on ambient water quality obtained in the Department’s files will be utilized. The water quality evaluation for setting WQBELs pursuant to this section will be summarized in a brief report explaining the conclusions of the evaluation and the basis for these conclusions. A copy of this report will be a part of the permit files.
