What is the Clean Water Act designed to do?

The Clean Water Act is designed to protect water from pollution, ensuring that the nation's waters are swimmable and fishable. It establishes a framework for regulating the discharge of pollutants into U.S. waters, setting water quality standards aimed at restoring and maintaining the integrity of the nation's waters. This legislation plays a critical role in safeguarding aquatic ecosystems and public health by setting limits on the types and amounts of pollutants that can be released into waterways.

The Act's focus is on maintaining and improving water quality, which is essential for protecting not only the environment but also the health of communities that rely on clean water for drinking, recreation, and agriculture. Its main goal is to prevent water pollution and enhance the quality of water bodies, making it essential for environmental protection efforts.