Jessica Williams

History/ Basic Information The CWA was formerly known as the Federal Water Pollution Control Act, which was made in 1948 and was the first major US law to address water pollution. After it was amended in 1972, it became known as the CWA. The Act was revised in 1978, 1981, 1987, and This is a national law.

Description Established structure for regulating pollutant discharges into US waters. Created standards for surface water quality contaminants. Made it illegal to discharge pollutants from a point source into navigable waters without a permit. Funded the construction of sewage treatment plants. Determined the need for plans to address nonpoint pollution. In total, the Act prevents point pollution and creates standards for pollution so human and environmental health won’t be affected. The CWA is enforced by the EPA.