Basic Course: Key Concepts (Module 4.h)

Policies and Methods:  EPA Review

EPA Regional Offices review new and revised antidegradation policies and antidegradation procedures developed by States and Tribes.

EPA’s key considerations for reviewing antidegradation programs:

Does the antidegradation policy protect existing uses, high quality waters, and ONRWs?

Are implementation methods identified?

Do protections for high quality waters apply to a broad spectrum of waters rather than just a narrow subset?

Is the wording used to describe the program consistent with CWA Section 131.12 (a)(1)-(4)?

the identified implementation methods consistent with EPA’s antidegradation provisions?