How is water quality maintained?

Water is a vital resource in Pennsylvania, and maintaining its quality is a priority of the state. The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania has enacted regulations to protect water quality, including the Pennsylvania Water Pollution Control Act of 1945. This act established water quality standards that all waterways must meet, and established penalties for polluters who do not comply. The state also enforces Clean Water Act regulations enacted by the federal government. The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) is responsible for water quality management in the state. The DEP creates Total Maximum Daily Loads (TMDLs) which are the maximum amount of pollutants that can be present in a given body of water. Any pollutants above that amount must be reduced in order to meet water quality standards. The DEP also monitors water quality in streams, rivers, and lakes to ensure that they meet standards. In addition, the DEP works with local governments and communities to develop and implement strategies to reduce pollution. Best management practices, such as stormwater management, can be used to limit the amount of pollutants entering a watershed. The DEP also works with businesses and industries to reduce runoff and pollution from their operations. By combining state and federal regulations, best management practices, and monitoring, the DEP is able to protect and improve water quality in Pennsylvania. This helps to ensure that this essential resource remains safe and clean for the citizens of the Commonwealth.

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How is water quality maintained?

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