1987 amendments to the Clean Water Act

Definition

The 1987 amendments to the Clean Water Act were significant changes made to the original legislation established in 1972, aimed at improving water quality in the United States. These amendments emphasized the importance of non-point source pollution management, increased funding for municipal wastewater treatment facilities, and introduced new regulatory measures to address water pollution more effectively.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The 1987 amendments introduced a focus on non-point source pollution, which was a growing concern as traditional point source controls were not sufficient to address all water quality issues.
2. These amendments established the Clean Water State Revolving Fund (CWSRF) program, which provided federal assistance to states for improving wastewater treatment facilities.
3. The legislation emphasized the need for states to develop and implement management plans for non-point source pollution, which included best management practices.
4. The amendments also called for increased public participation in the development of water quality standards and policies.
5. Through these changes, the 1987 amendments aimed to enhance water quality and protect aquatic ecosystems by promoting better management practices and funding for infrastructure improvements.

Review Questions

• How did the 1987 amendments shift the focus of the Clean Water Act regarding pollution sources?
  • The 1987 amendments significantly shifted the focus of the Clean Water Act by emphasizing non-point source pollution management. Previously, most regulatory efforts concentrated on point sources, such as factories or wastewater treatment plants. The recognition that non-point sources, like agricultural runoff and urban stormwater, were major contributors to water quality issues led to these changes. This shift aimed to provide a more comprehensive approach to improving overall water quality in the U.S.
• Evaluate the impact of establishing the Clean Water State Revolving Fund (CWSRF) on municipal wastewater treatment facilities.
  • The establishment of the Clean Water State Revolving Fund (CWSRF) had a profound impact on municipal wastewater treatment facilities by providing essential financial support for infrastructure upgrades and maintenance. This funding mechanism allowed states to offer low-interest loans to local governments, making it easier for them to invest in necessary improvements. As a result, many communities could enhance their wastewater treatment capabilities, leading to better compliance with water quality standards and reduced pollution entering waterways.
• Discuss how the 1987 amendments facilitated public involvement in developing water quality standards and its significance.
  • The 1987 amendments facilitated public involvement by mandating that states engage citizens in the development of water quality standards and management plans. This requirement was significant because it helped ensure that diverse community perspectives and local knowledge were considered in decision-making processes. Increased public participation not only fostered greater transparency but also promoted accountability among policymakers. As a result, communities became more invested in protecting their local water resources, leading to more effective and sustainable environmental governance.

Related terms

Non-point source pollution: Pollution that comes from multiple, diffuse sources rather than a single point of discharge, making it harder to regulate and control.

National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES):

A program under the Clean Water Act that regulates discharges of pollutants into U.S. waters, requiring permits for point sources of pollution.

Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL): A calculation of the maximum amount of a pollutant that a waterbody can receive while still meeting water quality standards, used to manage water quality effectively.