OAR 340-040-0100: Method and Criteria for Establishment of Maximum Measurable Levels of Contaminants in Groundwater: Statement of Purpose

(1) The rules within this division establish the methods and criteria the Environmental Quality Commission shall apply to adopt maximum measurable levels (MMLs) of contaminants in groundwater, resulting from actual or suspected nonpoint sources or activities. These MMLs will be used to designate groundwater management areas. (2) The maximum measurable levels of contaminants adopted by the Commission using these rules are protective of public health and the environment and existing and future beneficial uses of the groundwater which the natural groundwater quality allows. (3) The maximum measurable levels established by these rules are not designed to be used as drinking water standards or as clean-up standards for remedial actions, but to initiate the process of designating groundwater management areas where necessary to preserve groundwater quality.