What is the Clean Water Act?

The Clean Water Act is a federal law established in 1977 to protect and improve water quality in the United States. The Act is the cornerstone of water policy in the U.S. and regulates the discharge of pollutants into U.S. waterways. The law authorizes the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to set national standards for the amounts of certain pollutants that are allowed in waterways and to monitor and enforce these standards. In New York, the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) is responsible for implementing the Clean Water Act. This includes setting standards for water quality, issuing water quality permits, and inspecting facilities to ensure they meet permit requirements. The DEC also works with local governments to develop watershed plans that protect water quality and public health. The Clean Water Act has been a major contributor to improved water quality in New York and other states. It has helped reduce pollution in rivers and streams, making them healthier for wildlife and easier to use for recreation. The law has also been instrumental in restoring water bodies that had been polluted or damaged by development and other human activities.

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What is the Clean Water Act?

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