Aquatic Permit Before the Algaecide Goes In
A lakefront association hires a licensed applicator to treat an invasive aquatic plant in a 12-acre cove of a Connecticut lake. The association has a permit application pending but tells the applicator to go ahead because 'the cove is private.' The applicator plans to apply a copper-based algaecide and a fluridone product. The lake has a public boat launch at the other end, and a downstream property owner draws drinking water from a well near the shore. The applicator has the labels and a boat, but has not confirmed whether an aquatic pesticide permit has been issued or whether the products require a permit. The association wants the treatment done before a regatta in 10 days.
1. What permits or approvals are likely required before the applicator can treat the cove, and what should the applicator do first?
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Aquatic pesticide applications in Connecticut waters generally require a permit or approval from the state, typically through DEEP, and may require additional review where the water body is public or connected to other waters. The applicator should not apply until the required aquatic pesticide permit has been issued and any conditions are met. The applicator should first confirm with DEEP whether the specific products and site require a permit, whether the pending application covers the cove, and whether the 'private' status of the cove changes the analysis. The applicator should also check the labels for aquatic use directions and any state-specific restrictions. Proceeding before approval would be a violation regardless of the association's instruction.
2. What site factors must the applicator evaluate before treatment, and how should the drinking-water well affect the plan?
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The applicator must evaluate the presence of the public boat launch, the downstream drinking-water well, and any other sensitive areas. The label and permit conditions may impose setback distances, concentration limits, notification requirements, or prohibitions near drinking-water intakes. The applicator should identify the well's location and whether it is a regulated public water supply, check the label for restrictions on use near wells or intakes, and consult DEEP and the local health authority as needed. If the label or permit prohibits the application near the well, the applicator must adjust the plan or decline. The regatta deadline does not override permit conditions or label restrictions.