(1)    Memorandum of understanding. The department may enter into a memorandum of understanding with the U.S. corps of engineers concerning the dredging of the Mississippi, St. Croix and Black rivers and the disposal of these dredge spoils. Any memorandum of understanding shall specify approved sites where dredge spoils may be deposited and shall specify conditions and standards which are required for use of an approved site. A memorandum of understanding may contain recommended or required dredge disposal methods, equipment and policies.

   (2)   Authorization for dredging and dredge spoil disposal. If the department enters into a memorandum of understanding with the U.S. corps of engineers under sub. (1), the U.S. corps of engineers may deposit dredge spoils from dredging the Mississippi, St. Croix and Black rivers at approved sites according to specified conditions and standards including any special conditions and standards established under sub. (4).

   (3)   Exemption from statutes and rules. Dredge spoil disposal activities authorized under sub. (2) are exempt from any prohibition, restriction, requirement, permit, license, approval, authorization, fee, notice, hearing, procedure or penalty specified under s. 29.601, 30.01 to 30.20, 30.21 to 30.99, 59.692 or 87.30 or chs. 281 to 285 or 289 to 299 or specified in any rule promulgated, order issued or ordinance adopted under those sections or chapters.

   (4)   Hazardous waste dredge spoil disposal. In consultation with the U.S. corps of engineers, the department shall establish special conditions and standards for the disposal of dredge spoils which are hazardous waste, as defined under s. 291.01 (7). These special conditions and standards shall be established to ensure that public health and the environment are protected.