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Biological assessments and criteria can be an important component
of State and Tribal watershed management programs by assisting in
prioritization and targeting of actions, setting restoration goals
and performance standards, and documenting results.
EPA recommends a phased, iterative approach to developing a bioassessment
and biocriteria program. A brief description of the phases and links
to more details from EPA guidance are provided.
The Water Quality Criteria and Standards Plan is a vision for the
future of the water quality standards and criteria program. The
plan describes new criteria (including biocriteria) and standards
program initiatives that EPA, the states, and Indian tribes will
take during the next decade.
EPA recommends a phased, iterative approach to the adoption of
biological
criteria into state and tribal water quality standards that integrally
links the
development of biocriteria with refinement of a state's or tribe's
classification
system for designated aquatic life uses.
How To Get Started
We are looking for examples from states on how they have
initiated bioassessment and biocriteria programs.
By viewing different approaches around the country, other states
and tribes may be able to take advantage of these experiences and
lessons learned.
How To Fund A Program
Many of the concerns of states and tribes relate to the resources
needed to develop bioassessment and biocriteria programs. We
would like other states and tribes to share some of their successful
experiences with us.
Cost Estimates and Resource
Requirements for Maine’s Bioassessment and Biocriteria Program
Several states and Indian tribes have active bioassessment and
biocriteria programs. Learn about specific state and tribal
programs and visit some state program web sites.
Case studies demonstrating how bioassessments and biocriteria can
be used in state and tribal water quality programs.
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