SN's Water Quality Standards Public Comment Period Extended

UPDATE: Deadline Extended

The public comment period for the Seneca Nation’s Environmental Protection Department (EPD)‘s proposed Draft Water Quality Standards (WQS) has been extended to March 26, 2026.

This draft WQS establishes clear and enforceable criteria to protect all waters within the Nation’s exterior boundaries. These standards define the Nation’s designated uses, including, fishing, gathering, cultural and ceremonial practices, subsistence activities, aquatic life, source water protections, and recreation and sets the protective pollutant thresholds necessary to uphold those uses.

Grounded in the Seneca Nation’s March 21, 2021 Treatment as a Sovereign (TAS) status under Clean Water Act Section 303(c), these standards affirm the Nation’s full authority to set, maintain, and enforce water quality protections. Through this work, the Seneca Nation asserts its responsibility to safeguard the integrity of Onödowa’ga:’ lands and waters for the health, culture, and prosperity of present and future generations.

WQS Documents may be reviewed below and at:

• SNI EPD Offices
Allegany Office – 814 Broad St, Salamanca, NY 14779
Cattaraugus Office – 84 Iroquois Dr Irving, NY 14081
• SNI Clerks Office
Allegany Office – 90 Ohi:yo Way, Salamanca NY 14779
Cattaraugus Office – 12837 NY 438, Irving, NY 14081
Buffalo Office – 533 Amherst St, Buffalo, NY 14207

Submitting Comments

Comments may be hand delivered or mailed to:

• Cattaraugus EPD Office – 84 Iroquois Dr. Irving NY 14081
• Allegany EPD Office – 814 Broad St. Salamanca NY 14779

Or emailed to:

Jordan Parker Buffalo, Water Quality Program Manager, SN EPD
Phone: 716-532-2546 ext 5474
Email: jordan.buffalo