In addition, there is also concern about historical contamination from resulting from military activities from 1940 to the 1960s. The permits require semiannual water sample results on chlorides, fecal coliform bacteria, and other potential contaminants. Along with the permits, pumping rates for new wells and for existing wells with increased chloride levels are decreased. A fairly stringent permitting program is also in place for new septic tank construction and, at the same time, funding is being sought to extend existing sewer lines into highly populated areas. Underground and above-ground storage tanks must be reviewed and approved before installation.
Chemical storage is controlled by permitting and inspection of storage facilities.
Programs to Assess Water Quality CNMI's Department of Environmental Quality has an extensive monitoring program that includes monitoring public water supply systems and nearshore marine water for traditional water quality parameters. Biocriteria methods are used to monitor the health of coral reefs. Although the extent of contamination caused by World War II activities on the islands has not been fully investigated, an area of particular concern, the Puerto Rico dump, has been found to be in violation of the Clean Water Act. As part of a dump closure plan, an independent firm will be contracted to monitor and evaluate the site and the water quality surrounding the dump.