What is the threshold volume of a release that needs to be reported to the DEQ?

The correct threshold volume for reporting a release to the Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) is 25 gallons. This number is significant as it aligns with environmental regulations and standards aimed at preventing environmental contamination and ensuring public safety.

When a release of heating oil or other regulated substances occurs, it is crucial to notify the DEQ when the volume exceeds 25 gallons, as this quantity is considered to have the potential to cause significant environmental harm or to pose a risk to public health. Reporting incidents at this threshold enables the DEQ to respond appropriately to mitigate the effects of the release and investigate the source to prevent future occurrences.

The choice of 25 gallons as the reporting threshold reflects an established regulatory framework intended to strike a balance between manageable oversight of smaller releases and the need for immediate action on larger spills that present a higher risk. This proactive approach assists in ensuring that proper remediation measures can be implemented effectively and promptly, thereby protecting both the environment and the surrounding community.