Triennial Review

What is the Triennial Review?

Federal regulations require that states hold public hearings at least once every three years to review applicable surface water quality standards and, as appropriate, adopt new or modified standards, taking into consideration public concerns, EPA guidance, and new scientific and technical information. This process is called a triennial review. The triennial review also provides an opportunity to discuss the priorities and commitments the agency makes with EPA and others regarding surface water quality standards.

The Environmental Regulatory Code version of LAC 33:IX, Water Quality, Subpart 1. Water Pollution Control, Chapter 11 Surface Water Quality Standards, can be accessed electronically at: Regulations LAC Title 33

The Current Triennial Review

The current triennial review cycle started on March 20, 2024 and the result of these review efforts were developed into a rule (WQ117) that updated the Surface Water Quality Standards found in LAC 33:IX.Chapter 11. The final rule for WQ117 was published in the April 2026 edition of the Louisiana Register and approved by EPA on June 28, 2026.

The Next Triennial Review

The next cycle of triennial review will start in early 2027. Updates related to the next triennial cycle will be posted on this webpage and in the Louisiana Register.

Please e-mail WQ.Standards@la.gov if you have any questions related to the triennial review.