Biological Opinion on Environmental Protection Agency Approval of Virginia’s Adoption of Criteria for Aluminum in Freshwater
December 13, 2023
In response to a request from EPA Region 3, NOAA Fisheries has prepared a biological opinion on EPA’s proposal to approve protective aluminum water quality standards for the state of Virginia.
We have evaluated the effects of the proposed adoption on federally listed species and designated critical habitat and have concluded that the proposed action may adversely affect but is not likely to jeopardize the continued existence of shortnose sturgeon or the Chesapeake Bay, Distinct Population Segment of Atlantic sturgeon or its designated critical habitat.