How is water quality regulated?

In North Carolina, water quality is regulated by the federal and state governments, as well as local governments. The primary body responsible for water quality regulation in North Carolina is the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ). The DEQ enforces the Clean Water Act, which sets limits on the amount of pollutants that can be present in the water and is responsible for issuing permits and monitoring any sewage treatment systems associated with water pollution. The DEQ also reviews and sets standards for any new pollutants, such as fertilizer and pesticides, that may be released into the environment. The DEQ also works with local governments to ensure that water quality standards are being met. Local governments are responsible for issuing permits, inspecting surface water sources, and establishing local water regulations that are typically more strict than those imposed by the federal or state governments. In addition, the North Carolina Environmental Management Commission (EMC) conducts hearings that allow citizens to make comments on any proposed polluting activities in their local area. The EMC also has the authority to deny any requests for permits to discharge pollutants if they are determined to be a threat to water quality. Finally, the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) regulates public drinking water systems. The DHHS makes sure that the water from these public systems is free from contaminants, and that it is safe for human consumption. DHHS also monitors private drinking water systems, ensuring that contaminant levels are within set limits.

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How is water quality regulated?

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