4.11.304    SMP - PUBLIC PARTICIPATION

(1) The department will follow the procedures set forth in this rule when developing a SMP. The department, in the following order will:

(a) prepare an outline for the SMP for use at public meetings, which will include a description of the facts and circumstances that led the department to identify the need for a SMP;

(b) sponsor interagency and public meetings;

(c) consult with local, state and federal agencies, universities, and agricultural chemical user groups and the public, to identify the provisions, best management plans and practices, information and data needed, other agricultural chemicals of concern and plans for development of the SMP;

(d) consult with the MSUES to identify the benefits of appropriate use of the agricultural chemicals within the proposed SMZ of the SMP.

(2) Upon completion of these activities the department will prepare draft SMP rules. The department will submit the draft SMP to the DHES for that department's review and comment in accordance with ARM 4.11.402.

(3) Once the department has reviewed and incorporated appropriate DHES comments on the draft SMP, draft rules will be noticed into the Montana Administrative Register. Public comment and hearing provisions of Title 2, chapter 4, MCA will be followed by the department.

History: Sec. 80-15-105, MCA; IMP, Sec. 80-15-215 and 80-15-217, MCA; NEW, 1990 MAR p. 2244, Eff. 12/28/90.