What are EPAs drinking water regulations for atrazine?
EPA has set an enforceable regulation for atrazine, called a maximum contaminant level (MCL), at 0.003 mg/L or 3 ppb. MCLs are set as close to the health goals as possible, considering cost, benefits and the ability of public water systems to detect and remove contaminants using suitable treatment technologies. In this case, the MCL equals the MCLG, because analytical methods or treatment technology do not pose any limitation. The Phase II Rule, the regulation for atrazine, became effective in 1992. The Safe Drinking Water Act requires EPA to periodically review the national primary drinking water regulation for each contaminant and revise the regulation, if appropriate. EPA reviewed atrazine as part of the Six Year Review and determined that the 0.003 mg/L or 3 ppb MCLG and 0.003 mg/L or 3 ppb MCL for atrazine are still protective of human health.
