Regulatory Agencies

Water Rights
The Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) issues permits to appropriate water.

Utility Solutions has two central water systems. The Elk Grove water system appropriates water under DNRC permit number 41H-110168-00. The Northstar-Zoot water system appropriates water under DNRC permit numbers 41H-30012025, 41H-30013629, 41H-30019215, and 41H-30026244.

More information on the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation is found at http://dnrc.mt.gov/.

Water Supply and Treatment
The Montana Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ) approves the design and construction of municipal water systems. Water utilities are required to have adequate water supply available to serve the water need of its customers and provide for fire protection. MDEQ may require water utilities to provide treatment to ensure the municipal water supply is safe for consumption and regularly test the municipal water supply for contaminants.

The two Utility Solutions’ water systems are permitted to supply water by MDEQ. The Elk Grove water system operates under MDEQ permit MT0004248. The Northstar-Zoot water system operates under MDEQ permit MT0004284.

More information on the Montana Department of Environmental Quality is found at http://deq.mt.gov/.

Wastewater Treatment and Disposal
The Montana Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ) approves the design and construction of municipal wastewater systems and approves the disposal of treated wastewater. MDEQ approves the treatment process of sewer utilities and sets the discharge requirements that must be met prior to disposal. Sewer utilities are required to test regularly to ensure the parameters of the permit are being met.

Utility Solutions discharges domestic wastewater under MDEQ permit number MTX000110.

More information on the Montana Department of Environmental Quality is found at http://deq.mt.gov/.

Sludge Treatment and Disposal
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) approves the disposal of biosolids. EPA requires that sewer utilities treat sludge for pathogens and contaminants to “safe” levels. Sewer utilities are permitted by the EPA to dispose of treated sludge through land application, landfill, and/or surface disposal in accordance with other local, state, and federal regulations.

Utility Solutions disposes of sludge under EPA permit number MTG650000.

More information on the Environmental Protection Agency is found at www.epa.gov.