Publication Summary

Clean water is vital for our quality of life - for both economic development and a healthy environment. Unfortunately, some water bodies are so badly polluted they need extra help. Total Maximum Daily Loads (TMDLs or Water Cleanup Plans) describe the type, amount and sources of water pollution in a particular water body, analyze how much the pollution needs to be reduced to achieve clean water, and provide strategies to control pollution. The federal Clean Water Act requires states to prepare a list of water bodies that do not meet standards for ensuring the water is healthy for such uses as fish and wildlife habitat, agricultural water supplies, and recreation in and on the water. All water bodies identified on the list must attain water quality standards within a reasonable period, either through a Water Cleanup Plan or other pollution control mechanisms.