New Standards for Keeping New Jersey's Rivers, Lakes, and Streams Clean
Official: Surface Water Quality Standards, N.J.A.C. 7:9B
Reading: The adoption readopts and reauthorizes the existing Surface Water Quality Standards rule (N.J.A.C. 7:9B) without evidence of major increases in stringency or relaxation.
The rules went into effect in August 2023 and apply to all surface water in the state.
In clear language
New Jersey has updated its official rules for how clean our rivers, lakes, and streams need to be to protect people and wildlife. These new standards set specific limits on pollution and harmful substances that are allowed in the water. The rules went into effect in August 2023 and apply to all surface water in the state.
How does this affect you?
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Who does this affect?
- Families and communities that use rivers, lakes, and streams for swimming, fishing, or drinking water
- Businesses and factories that discharge water into New Jersey's waterways
- Local water treatment plants and municipal governments
- Environmental agencies responsible for monitoring water quality
What can you do?
- Check if your local water source meets these new quality standards by contacting your local water utility or visiting the NJ DEP website
- Report water pollution or discoloration to the NJ Department of Environmental Protection's hotline
- Reduce household chemical use and properly dispose of hazardous materials to prevent water contamination
Timeline
- 2023-08-07
No New Jersey official has a verified action on this policy yet.
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