What parameter does the Clean Water Act require the states to regulate?

The Clean Water Act is a vital piece of legislation that aims to restore and maintain the integrity of the nation's waters. One of its key components is the establishment of water quality standards, which include the requirement for states to develop Total Maximum Daily Loads (TMDLs) for pollutants in impaired waters.

TMDL represents the maximum amount of a pollutant that a body of water can receive while still meeting water quality standards. This parameter is critical for managing waters that do not meet the established quality criteria and is essential for the proper planning and implementation of water quality improvement measures.

This regulatory framework ensures that states are held accountable for maintaining clean water and protecting ecosystems, thereby addressing specific pollution challenges in a scientifically and economically efficient manner. Consequently, TMDLs play a crucial role in the efforts to achieve and maintain water quality goals as mandated by the Clean Water Act.