New Water Quality Rules for Copper Now in Effect Statewide

New state regulations governing copper levels in Alaska's waterways took effect on May 3, 2026, following approval by the Department of Environmental Conservation.

The updated rules, found in Alaska Administrative Code sections 18 AAC 70 and 18 AAC 235, give businesses and communities a new way to calculate acceptable copper discharge limits. Instead of using only standard formulas, the regulations now allow for site-specific testing to determine safe copper levels based on local water conditions.

Copper can enter waterways from industrial operations, mining activities, and urban runoff. The metal can be harmful to fish and other aquatic life in high concentrations.

The regulations were signed into law on April 3, 2026, after review by the Department of Law and approval by the Lieutenant Governor's office. The full text of the new rules will be published in the July 2026 Alaska Administrative Code register.

Citizens can view the complete regulation document (file number 2024200476.pdf) through the Alaska Online Public Notices website. For questions about how these changes may affect local water quality, contact the Department of Environmental Conservation.