Water Quality > Ground and Surface Water Quality

Ground and Surface Water Quality Information

Water quality standards provide protection and preservation of the waters of the state.

Along with regulations, monitoring helps Ecology to keep track of how well water cleanup plans and best management practices are working to help water bodies meet and maintain water quality standards.  Water reclamation and reuse helps Washington efficiently use its waters.

Water Quality Standards

Ground Water Quality Information
Information on the Ground Water Quality Standards and implementation for the State of Washington.

Surface Water Quality Standards
Numeric standards and designated uses for surface waters that protect beneficial uses in the water by setting pollution limits, and provide goals for water clean-up projects.

Water Quality Monitoring Information

Environmental Conditions and Trends (EAP)

Long-Term River Monitoring (EAP)

Water Quality Monitoring Studies Bibliography (EAP)

Whole Effluent Toxicity (WET) Testing (WQP)
WET tests are required in some wastewater discharge permits in order to measure the potential toxicity of effluents to the rivers, lakes, bays, and ocean waters of the state. WET testing is sometimes called "biomonitoring" or "bioassay testing."