Are recycling systems approved by the EPA or DEP?
The federal EPA or state DEP does not approve specific recycling systems. Government agencies usually do not tell you what you can do, but only specify what you cannot. In this instance, Marinas cannot pollute surface waters. Wastewater that drains to surface waters is considered an illegal discharge under the Federal Clean Water Act. Section 319 of the Clean Water Act (CWA) provides the statutory language establishing EPA’s Non-point Source Management authority and specifies the requirements for each state. Since recycling water eliminates the possibility of a non-point discharge, any marina that is correctly using an Encyclon recycling system will be in compliance. Zero discharge is the safest way for marinas to handle the waste water from boat washing.
