Section 503.102  Irrigation Activities

NPDES permits are required for discharges of irrigation return flow (such as tailwater, tile drainage, surfaced groundwater flow or bypass water) operated by public or private organizations or individuals if:

a)         There is a point source of discharge (e.g., a pipe, ditch or other defined or discrete conveyance, whether natural or artificial); and

b)         The return flow is from land areas of more than 3000 contiguous acres, or 3000 noncontiguous acres which use the same drainage system.