The numeric and narrative water quality standards in this part prescribe the qualities or properties of the waters of the state that are necessary for the aesthetic enjoyment and navigation designated public uses and benefits. If the standards in this part are exceeded in waters of the state that have the Class 5 designation, it is considered indicative of a polluted condition which is actually or potentially deleterious, harmful, detrimental, or injurious with respect to the designated uses.
The quality of Class 5 waters of the state shall be such as to be suitable for aesthetic enjoyment of scenery, to avoid any interference with navigation or damaging effects on property. The following standards shall not be exceeded in the waters of the state:
Substance, Characteristic, or Pollutant | Class 5 Standard | |
For nonwetlands | For wetlands | |
pH, minimum | 6.0 | Maintain background |
pH, maximum | 9.0 | Maintain background |
Hydrogen sulfide as S | 0.02 mg/L | Maintain background |
For the purposes of this subpart, "maintain background" means the concentration of the water quality substance, characteristic, or pollutant shall not deviate from the range of natural background concentrations or conditions such that there is a potential significant adverse impact to the designated uses.
Additional selective limits may be imposed for any specific waters of the state as needed.
Minn. R. agency 167, ch. 7050, WATER QUALITY STANDARDS FOR PROTECTION OF WATERS OF THE STATE, pt. 7050.0225
Statutory Authority: MS s 115.03; 115.44