Federal Water Quality Standards Requirements
Federal Regulation for Water Quality Standards
The Water Quality Standards Regulation (40 CFR 131) establishes the requirements for states and tribes to review, revise and adopt water quality standards. It also establishes the procedures for EPA to review, approve, disapprove and promulgate water quality standards pursuant to section 303 (c) of the Clean Water Act.
Review and Approval of State and Tribal Water Quality Standards, "Alaska Rule" (Effective May 30, 2000)
- 40 CFR 131.21
- Fact Sheet: EPA Review and Approval of State and Tribal Water Quality Standards (pdf) (101 KB, April 2000, EPA 823-F-00-006)
- Federal Register Notice (April 27, 2000)
- Memo from Geoff Grubbs: Questions and Answers on EPA’s “Alaska Rule” (pdf) (183.46 KB, 9/15/2000)
Federal Guidance for Standards in the Great Lakes System
The Water Quality Guidance for the Great Lakes System was issued in 1995. It established minimum standards, antidegradation policies, and implementation procedures for waters of the Great Lakes system. This includes special requirements for bioaccumulative chemicals of concern. The eight Great Lakes states were required to adopt water quality standards as protective as these requirements within two years (by 1997).
The document suggests how states and authorized tribes can conduct online public hearings in lieu of in-person public hearings, consistent with federal public hearing requirements.