The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has approved the Iowa Department of Natural Resources’ (IDNR) designated use changes for 69 water bodies and disapproved proposed changes for 57 water bodies. Designated uses describe the achievable recreational activities and aquatic life uses in Iowa’s waters. EPA is finalizing action on the remaining 12 water bodies.
“Healthy waters and watersheds provide Iowa communities with drinking water, recreational opportunities, environmental benefits and clean water for habitat for fish and wildlife,” said Karl Brooks, regional administrator. “EPA will continue working with the state to protect Iowa’s lakes, rivers and streams."
The Clean Water Act (CWA) establishes a mandatory role for EPA to review and approve or disapprove all state water quality standards. IDNR submitted new and revised Iowa surface water quality standards to EPA for review and approval, as required by the law. This submission updates the use designations for many of the state’s waters following site-specific field studies to determine the highest attainable use for the individual waters.
Source: U.S. EPA
