Draft Release and Public Review

The current permit was last issued in March 2021 and is scheduled to expire March 21, 2026. After Ecology receives and considers all public comments, we will prepare a response to comments and describe any changes to the draft permit. Ecology expects to make a final decision on the general permit February 2026.

The draft permit and supporting documents are available for review on the Aquatic Plant and Algae Management General Permit webpage.

We ask that comments reference specific text, permit condition(s), and page number(s) in your comments whenever possible. It is also helpful if you describe the nature of your concern and propose any potential solutions or changes to permit language. References or other supporting documentation in support of your comments should also be provided when appropriate and available. For tips and instructions on submitting comments visit: How to submit comments to us.

The Aquatic Plant and Algae Management General Permit (APAM) provides coverage for the chemical treatments of aquatic noxious weeds, native nuisance plants, algae, and phosphorous. This permit protects Washington’s waters and aquatic life by controlling the discharge of pollutants into fresh water (lakes, streams, and rivers) or along shorelines, roadsides, dikes/levees, and ditch banks.

The current permit was last issued in March 2021 and is scheduled to expire March 21, 2026. After Ecology receives and considers all public comments, we will prepare a response to comments and describe any changes to the draft permit. Ecology expects to make a final decision on the general permit February 2026.