JAY – The town plans to strengthen the wording on International Paper’s wastewater discharge permit, despite that fact that the mill has not violated its limits.

Jay environmental code enforcement officer Shiloh Ring said IP discharged 45,483 pounds of suspended solids in treated wastewater into the Androscoggin River on July 5.

But because the words “strive to” are in the permit, the mill did not violate the seasonal daily average limit of 12,000 pounds per day, Ring said.

IP’s town-issued permit for its wastewater treatment plant requires the mill to reduce its total suspended solids during summer months.

From June 15 through Sept. 15, at times when Androscoggin River flows in Jay are estimated at less than 3,000 cubic feet per second, IP must “strive to” reduce the total suspended solids or sludge in its wastewater discharge to a 30-day rolling average of 12,000 pounds per day, and maintain a daily maximum of 12,000 pounds per day, according to a special condition in the permit.

When flows are 3,000 cubic feet per second or more during that time, the mill is required to reduce the total suspended solids in its wastewater discharge to a monthly average of 12,000 pounds per day, and a daily maximum of 22,300 pounds per day.

Historically, the mill’s levels have been below the town requirements, which are stricter than the state’s, Ring said.

The permit allows higher discharge rates of treated wastewater when the river flow is higher and faster.

Ring said the Planning Board will be reviewing the words “strive to” in the permit and will be amending it to strengthen the wording.

The mill has been working hard to lower its levels, she added.

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