EPA Boosts Oxygen Levels for Delaware River Fish
Published Date: 9/29/2025
Rule
Summary
The EPA is updating water rules to keep fish and other water creatures safe in parts of the Delaware River. These changes affect Zones 3, 4, and upper Zone 5, making sure the water has enough oxygen for aquatic life to thrive. This means cleaner water and healthier habitats, with new standards kicking in soon to protect the river’s residents and visitors alike.
Analyzed Economic Effects
1 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
New Aquatic Life Protection Rule
If you use or visit the mainstem Delaware River between river mile 108.4 and 70.0 (Zone 3, Zone 4, and the upper portion of Zone 5), the EPA has designated the water for the protection and propagation of resident and migratory aquatic life and established corresponding dissolved oxygen water quality criteria. The rule sets legal water-quality goals to keep oxygen levels high enough for fish and other aquatic organisms to thrive.
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