by: eric reutebuch
Section 303(d) of the Clean Water Act (CWA) requires that states assess surface waters and compile a list of those that have become polluted to the point that they no longer support their Use Classification (e.g., Fish & Wildlife, Public Water Supply, Swimming & Whole-body Contact, etc.). This list of impaired waters is known as the 303(d) List.
The 303(d) List must be submitted by the states to the U.S. EPA on April 1 of every even-numbered year. The 303(d) List contains details for each impaired waterbody, including the waterbody name, type of waterbody, locational information, the Use Classification of the waterbody, the cause(s) and source(s) of impairment, the area of impairment, the year that the waterbody was first listed, and the year that a draft TMDL is scheduled to be completed for that waterbody.
To view the Final 2012 303(d) List and Final 2012 303(d) Fact Sheet, visit ADEM’s 303(d) Information site at www.adem.state.al.us/programs/water/303d.cnt.
Looking at the 303d map of Alabama, the state looks like it has a bad case of vericose veins! Will citizen data be used to delist AND LIST 303d segments? Our state could do a much better job of using AWW water data, and the dedicated volunteers who are ready to do something to clean these stream up!
No wonder our streams and rivers are in a mess look at the way ADEM has handled the REEF Enviromental issue in Sylacauga. For over 5 years we reported and complained to ADEM about REEF and for years they knew there were leaks in the basins but still they did little to nothing to stop this from entering our water ways.
I love to see the map! That’s very helpful….
ADEM had better understand that citizen involvement is their best opportunity to advance a positive environmental agenda the people of Alabama expect. If you don’t have the buy in of the people, you will never get beyond the typical ho hum state agency that exists only because of requirements and mandates. ADEM has a gem in front of them that needs to tapped into as much as possible.
Cdr. Michael S. Freeman
U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary
Division 8 Staff Officer
Marine Safety and Environmental Protection