New Snake River permits aim to lower pollution

The new permit will go into effect December 1 and requires nearly 100 fish farms to collectively reduce the amount of phosphorous emptied into the river by 40%.

The EPA permit covers the entire state and involves producers of rainbow trout, salmon, catfish as well as state fish hatcheries.

But the area of biggest concern is along a 55-mile stretch of the Snake River, home to more than 80% of Idaho's aquaculture industry.

The hope is that lower phosphorous levels ... a chemical byproduct of fish waste ... will eliminate excess algae and weed growth in the river and improve water quality.

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