There is a wide variety of companies that are set on the banks of the Merrimack River. If a company wants to discharge into the river, they must first apply for a permit to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The EPA is required to set standards that ensure water safety in accordance with the Clean Water Act. The EPA reviews the application and the amount of discharge they will emit. Depending on where on the river the company is located, they can release a limited amount of pollutants. Certain areas, such as swimming beaches and boating docks, must maintain specific water quality levels for the safety of people and animals.

Once the EPA has drafted the permit, it is submitted for public review. Here is where MRWC gets involved. First, we review the permit. Then, we comment on any concerns we may have with regard to the permit. If EPA deems our concerns as critical for ecological health, a public hearing is set and each party defends their position. Once the critical concerns, if any, are addressed, then the permit is edited and finalized.

A permit lasts for five years. If the company releases more waste than is stated in the permit, or if they release different chemicals that are not listed in their permit, a fine is assessed. Monitoring groups such as MRWC VEMN help keep these permitees accountable to remaining within the constraints of their permit.