Early Public Feedback

The current permit expires on Dec. 31, 2026. We are taking the first step in developing the draft permit and would like to hear from you. The permit is available for review on the Fresh Fruit Packing General Permit webpage. We will host one in-person listening session in Union Gap, WA on October 30, 2025. You can also send us your thoughts in writing before Nov. 14, 2025.

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. Provide references or other supporting documentation when appropriate and available. For tips and instructions on submitting comments visit: How to submit comments to us.

After the draft permit is completed – anticipated summer 2026 – Ecology will issue a public notice about the proposed document and ask for formal public input. During this period, we will host at least one public meeting and hearing where spoken comments can be shared for official consideration. Ecology reads and considers each comment received during that period and may change the draft document in response to comments. Ecology will publish a response document addressing comments during the public comment period. We will not include official responses to the input received during this early informal public feedback period in Ecology’s official response to comments for the permit’s reissuance.

Facilities in Washington that wash and pack fresh fruit for people to eat must obtain permit authorization to assure operational wastewater does not carry pollutants into waters of the state. The Fresh Fruit Packing General Permit outlines the conditions, treatment, and disposal methods for a facility’s wastewater prior to direct or indirect discharge to lakes, rivers, and groundwater.