By D.E. Smoot

Phoenix Staff Writer

Delays appear likely for the submission of a draft report recommending full implementation of the state’s numeric phosphorus standard for its scenic rivers and streams.

The preliminary report was assembled by a technical advisory group designated to review new scientific or technical evidence that might necessitate changes to the standard.

The standard was adopted in 2003 to address the evident degradation of water quality within the Illinois River watershed. A joint agreement reached the following year between Arkansas and Oklahoma interests required the review before full implementation, which is set for July