Great Lakes Initiative : EPA Needs to Better Ensure the Complete and Consistent Implementation of Water Quality Standards

The virtual elimination of toxic pollutants in the Great Lakes is a goal shared by the U.S. & Canada. While some progress has been made, pollution levels remain unacceptably high. The Great Lakes Initiative (GLI) requires stringent water quality standards for many pollutants in discharges regulated by states administering the Nat. Pollution Discharge Elimination System permit programs. This report examines the: (1) GLI's focus & potential impact on water quality in the Great Lakes Basin; (2) status of GLI's adoption by the states & any challenges to achieving intended goals; & (3) steps taken by the EPA for ensuring full & consistent implementation of GLI & for assessing progress toward achieving its goals. Charts, tables & maps.Stephenson, John B. is the author of 'Great Lakes Initiative : EPA Needs to Better Ensure the Complete and Consistent Implementation of Water Quality Standards', published 2005 under ISBN 9781422302835 and ISBN 1422302830.