How is water quality regulated?

Water quality in Georgia is regulated by both state and federal laws. At the federal level, the Clean Water Act (CWA) is the primary law governing water quality. This act requires the federal government to regulate and set standards for water that is discharged from point sources, such as factories and wastewater treatment plants, into bodies of water such as rivers and lakes. It also requires states to develop and implement plans to reduce any pollutants or contaminants that could impair the health of aquatic ecosystems. At the state level, the Georgia Environmental Protection Division (EPD) oversees and regulates water quality in the state. The EPD has established a number of standards that organizations and individuals must meet when using, discharging, or storing water. These standards help to protect public health and the environment. In addition to state and federal laws, the Georgia Water Quality Control Act is in place to protect surface and groundwater resources from contamination. This act requires organizations and individuals to obtain a permit before they can discharge pollutants into waters of the state. This permit sets strict limits on the amount of pollutants that may be discharged, ensuring that water quality is maintained. Lastly, the Georgia Water Quality Protection and Restoration Act (GWQPRA) works to protect and restore areas affected by water pollution. This act focuses on reducing the amount of pollutants entering surface and groundwaters, as well as restoring water quality in areas that have suffered from pollution. It allows the EPD to issue permits and grants to support water quality projects, and also provides funding for research and educational outreach to help educate the public on water quality issues.

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How is water quality regulated?

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