Typical Designated Uses


  • Public water supplies
  • Protection and propagation of fish, shellfish and wildlife (Aquatic Life/Wildlife/Habitat/Biological Integrity)
  • Recreation
  • Agriculture
  • Industry
  • Navigation
  • Other: coral reef preservation, marinas, groundwater recharge, aquifer protection, hydroelectric power

(CWA, Section 303(c)(2)(A), 40CFR131.10(a), WQS Handbook, 2.1.6)

In addition, states have designated aesthetic, cultural and ceremonial uses as well as several subcategories of the above such as cold water fisheries, swimming or aquaculture.

< Back to Previous Page

Options: