Water Permits Greenlit, EJ Areas Noted: River Flows On
Published Date: 3/21/2025
Notice
Summary
On March 13, 2025, the Susquehanna River Basin Commission gave the green light to several water projects, including renewing groundwater withdrawals for towns and companies, some in Environmental Justice areas. They also introduced a new permit for water diversions and postponed a cooling system update until June. These decisions affect local water use and management, ensuring safe and fair water access starting March 14, 2025.
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 1 costs, 1 mixed.
Large industrial and diversion permits approved (including Susquehanna Nuclear)
The Commission approved several industrial-scale withdrawals and consumptive uses effective March 14, 2025. Notable approvals include Susquehanna Nuclear, LLC: renewal for surface water withdrawal up to 76.000 mgd (peak day) from the Susquehanna River and consumptive use up to 53.000 mgd (peak day) (Docket No. 19950301); BlueTriton Brands, Inc. (Pine Grove Spring): renewal for groundwater withdrawal up to 0.288 mgd, consumptive use up to 0.288 mgd, and an out-of-basin diversion up to 0.288 mgd (Docket No. 20000202).
Municipal water withdrawals renewed (various towns)
The Commission approved renewals and new groundwater withdrawal permits for multiple municipal water suppliers effective March 14, 2025. Examples include Beavertown Municipal Authority (up to 0.199 mgd from Well 6 and 0.199 mgd from Well 7), Bedford Township Municipal Authority (up to 0.324 mgd and 0.100 mgd; service area located in an Environmental Justice area), Ephrata Area Joint Authority (up to 0.260 mgd; service area located in an Environmental Justice area), College Township Water Authority (up to 1.405 mgd), Westfield Borough (up to 0.412 mgd), and Weaverland Valley Authority (up to 0.098 mgd).
New permit for into‑basin diversions (GP‑04)
The Commission adopted Resolution 2025-01 to adopt a general permit, GP-04, relating to Into Basin Diversions of Water. The action (Resolution 2025-01) was taken at the March 13, 2025 meeting and is listed with an effective date of March 14, 2025.
Dry cooling update postponed to June 2025
The Commission tabled Resolution 2025-02, which would update its 2015 Dry Cooling Resolution, and postponed action on it until the June 2025 business meeting. The tabling decision was made at the March 13, 2025 meeting.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
Related Federal Register Documents
2026-20333, Public Hearing
The Susquehanna River Basin Commission is hosting a public hearing on October 28, 2026, where folks can speak up about water projects, a new Access to Records Policy, and a draft fee schedule. This is the only chance to give oral comments before the Commission decides in December. Written comments are due by November 9, so don’t miss your shot to weigh in on water use and fees that could affect local communities and businesses.
2026-19494, Actions Taken at the September 16, 2026 Meeting
On September 16, 2026, the Susquehanna River Basin Commission approved several water project applications, adopted the FY2028 budget, and set new policies to protect water resources. These changes affect local water companies and communities in Pennsylvania, with some projects allowing new water withdrawals. The budget and policies aim to keep water use sustainable while supporting regional growth.
2026-14152, Minor Modification Approval
The Susquehanna River Basin Commission gave the green light to small changes for projects during June 2026. For example, Chobani, LLC got approval to add a new water source for their Well 4 in New York. These tweaks help projects run smoother without big delays or extra costs.
2026-14151, Projects Approved for Consumptive Uses of Water
The Susquehanna River Basin Commission gave the green light to several water use projects in June 2026, including new approvals and renewals for companies and schools in Pennsylvania. These projects can use millions of gallons of water daily, helping businesses and communities grow while keeping water use in check. If you’re involved in these areas, now’s the time to note these approvals and plan accordingly!
2026-14150, Grandfathering Registration Notice
If you run a water-related project in the Susquehanna River Basin, this notice is for you! The Commission has officially listed projects that got 'grandfathered' registrations during June 2026, meaning they’re recognized under old rules before new ones kick in. This keeps things fair and clear—no surprise fees or changes for these projects right now.
2026-11968, Projects Approved for Consumptive Uses of Water
The Susquehanna River Basin Commission approved several projects in May 2026 that use water for things like manufacturing and energy drilling. These approvals let companies withdraw millions of gallons of water daily, mostly in Pennsylvania townships. If you’re involved in these industries, keep an eye on these renewals and new permits—they shape water use and could impact local water supplies and operations.
Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2025-04894, Privacy Act of 1974; System of Records
The Export-Import Bank is launching a new system to keep track of employee security info, like background checks and clearances, starting March 21, 2025. This affects anyone working or volunteering with EXIM who needs access to sensitive info or facilities. You can comment on this new system within 30 days, but no extra costs are expected.
Next: 2025-04896, Projects Approved for Consumptive Uses of Water
The Susquehanna River Basin Commission approved water use projects for February 2025, letting several companies keep using millions of gallons daily for their operations. These renewals mainly affect energy companies in Pennsylvania, ensuring they can continue their work without interruption. No new fees or changes in water limits were announced, so things stay steady for now.