Basics of the Clean Water Act
When first written in 1972, the Clean Water Act called for ending pollution by the 1980s. This course examined the progress made to date, and the progress yet to be made to achieve this goal. The facultyl addressed:
the regulatory and permitting framework for limiting water pollution, and
the important distinction between point sources and nonpoint sources.
Although "water" is a straightforward concept, two recent Supreme Court decisions have created enormous confusion surrounding what types of water are subject to federal regulation. The seminar also highlighted:
the distinctions between the regulation of water quality versus water quantity, and
the considerations that policymakers face in light of growing demands for water in the context of energy needs and climate change.
Faculty:
Nizanna Bathersfield, Attorney Advisor, Office of Water, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
