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[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][breadcrumb-shortcode][vc_column_text][maxmegamenu location=max_mega_menu_3][\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_tta_accordion color=”blue” spacing=”1″ gap=”15″ c_align=”center” c_icon=”triangle” c_position=”right” active_section=”-1″ collapsible_all=”true”][vc_tta_section title=”Introduction” tab_id=”introduction”][vc_column_text]<\/p>\n
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New Jersey’s surface waters provide much of the water used for drinking water supplies, recreation, fishing, boating, swimming, commercial fisheries including shellfish, and tourism, all of which support our State’s’ ecology, economy, and quality of life for our residents.<\/p>\n
The New Jersey Integrated Water Quality Assessment Report (Integrated Report) is a compilation of information about the quality of New Jersey’s surface waters. The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) prepares the Integrated Report as a biennial assessment of statewide water quality that identifies and prioritizes waters for protection, restoration, and additional monitoring or research. The Integrated Report thus serves as an effective tool for enhancing, maintaining, and restoring water quality in all surface waters of the State to support their use for aquatic life, recreation, water supply, fish consumption, and shellfish harvest for consumption.<\/p>\n
The primary purpose of the water quality assessment program is to determine the health of New Jersey’s water resources so the appropriate steps can be taken to restore, maintain and protect our water resources and their designated uses. Water quality standards, monitoring, and assessment provide the scientific foundation for the integrated assessment that supports protection of New Jersey’s water resources and implementation of the federal Clean Water Act, the New Jersey Water Quality Planning Act, and the New Jersey Water Pollution Control Act.<\/p>\n
The DEP initiates a new water quality assessment cycle every two years. All existing and readily available data is evaluated to ensure that it meets established data quality requirements. The\u202fIntegrated Water Quality Assessment Methods (Methods Document)\u202fdescribes the guidelines, protocols, and procedures how the data is used to determine water quality conditions.<\/p>\n
The Methods Document provides an objective and scientifically sound assessment methodology, including:<\/p>\n
<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Assessment units (AUs) represent the scale at which waters of the State are grouped for assessment purposes. New Jersey waters are grouped into 958 AUs, which are delineated based on the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) 14-digit Hydrologic Unit Code (HUC) boundaries except for waters of the Barnegat Bay Estuary and the Delaware River, and are grouped within five water regions.<\/p>\n
A different water region is selected each assessment cycle, on a rotating basis. Since 2014, New Jersey has employed a rotating regional approach to integrated water quality assessments. Under this approach, the Department completes a comprehensive, detailed analysis of water quality in one of New Jersey’s five water regions, Atlantic Coastal, Raritan, Lower Delaware, Upper Delaware, and Northeast each assessment cycle.<\/p>\n
This rotating regional approach produces a comprehensive assessment of the entire State every ten years and supports development of measures to restore, maintain, and enhance water quality tailored to the unique circumstances of each region.<\/p>\n
New Jersey uses a conservative assessment method that ensures accurate and confident decisions in identifying water quality issues and health. An impairment for a designated use may be tied to one parameter exceeding criteria at one of many monitoring sites. For more information, please see the assessment methods document below.\n<\/p>\n
<\/a><\/p>\nWater Quality Assessment Methods Document <\/i><\/button><\/a><\/div>\n[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”New Jersey Water Resources” tab_id=”new-jersey-water-resources”][vc_column_text css=””]<\/p>\nNew Jersey is the fifth smallest, but most densely populated state in the Nation. NJ is also one of the most geologically and hydrogeologically diverse states. The state has a variety of surface waterbody types that range from intermittent streams to large river systems (a significant number of which are tidally influenced); acres of lakes, ponds, and reservoirs; and miles of estuarine and coastal (ocean) waters. Wetlands are found near most surface waterbodies, both freshwater and saltwater.<\/p>\nNew Jersey’s surface water systems are located in a wide variety of geologic settings, from the past glaciated regions of northern New Jersey to the coastal plain of southern New Jersey, and include ecologically unique and\/or protected areas such as the Pinelands and the Highlands regions.<\/p>\n\n\n\nRESOURCES<\/th>\nEXTENT<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n\n\nState Population (2019) 1<\/sup><\/td>\n8,882,190<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\nState Total Area (square miles)<\/td>\n8,772<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\nState Total Land Area (square miles)<\/td>\n7,254<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\nRivers and Streams:<\/strong>\nMiles of Nontidal Rivers and Streams\nMiles of Tidal Rivers and Streams\nMiles of Rivers and Streams (total)\nBorder Miles Shared Rivers<\/td>\n–\n13,695\n5,730\n19,425\n197<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\nLakes, Ponds and Reservoirs:<\/strong>\nTotal Acres of Lakes and Ponds and Reservoirs\nNumber of Reservoirs\nAcres of Reservoirs<\/td>\n–\n47,620\n43\n14,970<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\nEstuaries and Ocean:<\/strong>\nSquare Miles of Estuaries\nMiles of Ocean Coast (linear miles)\nSquare Miles of Ocean (jurisdictional waters)<\/td>\n–\n650\n127\n470<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\nWetlands:<\/strong>\nAcres of Freshwater Wetlands\nAcres of Tidal Wetlands\nTotal Acres of Wetlands<\/td>\n–\n739,160\n209,269\n948,429<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n1) 2019 US Census estimate\nSpatial extents shown in this table are calculated based on 1:24,000 scale from the Department’s GIS coverages for the applicable water resource including the National Hydrography Dataset (NHD), surface water quality classification, lakes, coastal waters, and wetlands (2002).<\/span>[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”Data Sources” tab_id=”data-sources”][vc_column_text css=””]<\/p>\n\n<\/p>\nData Organizations contributing to the Integrated Report<\/div>\n <\/p>\nData organizations <\/i><\/button><\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n <\/p>\nThe DEP employs an integrated approach to assessing water quality by compiling a vast amount of water monitoring data and related information collected by numerous sources throughout the state.<\/p>\nWhile the principal contributor of water quality data used for assessment purposes is generated by the DEP, numerous monitoring organizations and other partners also collect relevant data. These include federal and county government agencies, regional commissions (e.g., Pinelands Commission) watershed associations and other voluntary citizen monitoring, and utility organizations.<\/p>\nAll monitoring data must have an approved Quality Assurance Project Plan (QAPP) that includes acceptable sampling procedures. Information for developing QAPPs, sampling protocols and other resources for water monitoring may be found on the DEP\u2019s website.<\/p>\nLearn more about\nWater Monitoring Protocols and Resources<\/button><\/a><\/div>\n <\/p>\n\nThe Department’s most recent data solicitation covering the monitoring data in the Integrated Report and 303(d) List from the 2020 through 2026 assessment cycles can be found here as public noticed in New Jersey Register Volume 50<\/a>, Issue 13, July 2, 2018 (50 N.J.R. 1507(b))<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n <\/p>\n\nDEP\u2019s strategic goal outlined in the “New Jersey Water Monitoring & Assessment Strategy (2022-2032)” to develop a comprehensive monitoring program for all waters of the state has resulted in a drastic increase in the number of monitoring stations and samples collected over the last decade. In collaboration with other water monitoring stakeholders and agencies, the number of AUs with data has risen significantly and has resulted in a comprehensive understanding of water quality conditions.<\/p>\nSince 2006 which is the first Integrated Report that AUs were based on HUC14 sub-watersheds, the number of unassessed designated uses caused by insufficient data declined from 38% to only 18% AUs with insufficient data, the number of AUs with at least one designated use assessed rose to 97% statewide, and the number of AUs where all of the designated uses are assessed rose over 35% to 62% statewide1<\/sup>.<\/p>\nNew Jersey Water Monitoring and Assessment Strategy <\/i><\/button><\/div>\n1. This includes all of the designated uses except for fish consumption.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n <\/p>\nLearn more about important Stakeholders in the Northeast Region <\/i><\/button><\/div>\n <\/p>\nDatabases Used in the Integrated Report<\/h5>\n\n\n\n\u00a0 Data Web Site<\/th>\n\u00a0 Description<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n\n\nThe Water Quality Portal (WQP)<\/a><\/td>\nPrimary water quality data portal. All data collected by the DEP and other monitoring organizations is accessed through the WQP. Does not include continuous data.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\nDEP Continuous Data Monitoring<\/a><\/td>\nAccess continuous data collected by the DEP<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\nUSGS Continuous Data Monitoring<\/a><\/td>\nAccess continuous data collected by the USGS<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\nRecreational Beach Conditions<\/a><\/td>\nFind current beach status, water quality sample results, reports of beach advisories and beach closings, and information on other events that affect beaches.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\nShellfish Harvesting Conditions<\/a><\/td>\nFind current shellfish harvesting classification including data from monitoring stations.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\nEcoSHEDS<\/a><\/td>\nFind current continuous stream temperature data collected by NJ stakeholders.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”Water Quality Categories” tab_id=”water-quality-categories”][vc_column_text]<\/p>\nWater quality assessments are categorized into three statuses, Fully Supporting, Not Supporting, or Insufficient Data for assessment. Based on EPA guidance, these statuses are placed in sublists for the Integrated Report as described in the table below. In addition, subparts are added to Sublist 4 and Sublist 5 to help clarify the response strategy for impairments.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n\u00a0 Sublists<\/th>\n\u00a0 Description<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n\n\nSublist 1 \/ Sublist 2<\/strong><\/td>\nAn assessment unit is Fully Supporting<\/strong> designated uses and no uses are threatened.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\nSublist 3<\/strong><\/td>\nInsufficient Data<\/strong> and information to determine if the designated use is fully supported or not supported.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\nSublist 4<\/strong><\/td>\nOne or more designated uses are Not Supported<\/strong> or are threatened but TMDL development is not required because of one of the following reasons:<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n\u00a0 \u00a0 Sublist 4A<\/strong><\/td>\nA TMDL has been completed for the parameter causing designated use non-support.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n\u00a0 \u00a0 Sublist 4B<\/strong><\/td>\nOther enforceable pollutant control measures are reasonably expected to result in fully supporting the designated use in the near future.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n\u00a0 \u00a0 Sublist 4C<\/strong><\/td>\nNon-support of the designated use is caused by something other than a pollutant.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\nSublist 5 (303(d))<\/strong><\/td>\nOne or more designated uses are Not Supported<\/strong> or are threatened by a pollutant(s), that requires development of a TMDL.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n\u00a0 \u00a0 Sublist 5A<\/strong><\/td>\nArsenic does not attain standards, but concentrations are below those demonstrated to be from naturally occurring conditions.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n\u00a0 \u00a0 Sublist 5L<\/strong><\/td>\nDesignated use impairment is caused by a “legacy pollutant” that is no longer actively manufactured or discharged by a point source.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n\u00a0 \u00a0 Sublist 5R<\/strong><\/td>\nWater quality impairment is not effectively addressed by a TMDL, such as nonpoint source pollution that will be controlled under an approved watershed restoration plan or 319(h) Watershed Based Plan.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n <\/p>\n\nSublist 5 – Pollutants placed on the 303(d) List, also identify their priority ranking for TMDL development (High, Medium, Low). TMDLs for pollutants identified on Sublists 5A, 5L and 5R are assigned a low priority for TMDL development since alternative restoration measures are being pursued.<\/p>\nSublist 5R – Development of a watershed restoration plan can be an effective alternative to a formal TMDL to characterize pollutant sources, the reductions needed to attain standards, and the means to achieve the reductions. The DEP is pursuing this approach where stormwater and nonpoint sources of pollution are considered to be the predominant source of water quality impairment.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”Surface Water Quality Standards” tab_id=”surface-water-quality-standards”][vc_column_text]<\/p>\n\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\nThe Surface Water Quality Standards (SWQS), N.J.A.C. 7:9B, establish the designated uses and antidegradation categories of the State’s surface waters, classify surface waters based on those uses (i.e., stream classifications), and specify the water quality criteria and other policies and provisions necessary to attain those designated uses. Designated uses include water supply for drinking, agriculture and industrial uses, fish consumption, shellfish resources, propagation of fish and wildlife, and recreation. In addition, the SWQS specify general, technical, and interstate policies, and policies pertaining to the establishment of water quality-based effluent limitations.<\/p>\nThe current SWQS rules (N.J.A.C. 7:9B) were readopted in 2016 and amended in 2020. The SWQS are used to develop regulatory requirements for other Department programs that will serve to protect the existing and designated uses of the State’s surface waters. These programs include the New Jersey Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NJPDES) program, Site Remediation Program, and various programs implemented by the Division of Land Use Regulation.<\/p>\nThe SWQS also form the basis for the Integrated Report. Waters that exceed SWQS require the development of total maximum daily loads (TMDLs) or other alternative approaches to address the impairment. The Department has developed a Nutrient Criteria Enhancement Plan (NCEP) to explain the Department’s approach to developing and enhancing the existing SWQS nutrient criteria and policies to protect designated uses of all New Jersey’s surface waters, including saline waters (estuarine and marine).<\/p>\nSurface Water Quality Standards (N.J.A.C. 7:9B) <\/i><\/button><\/a><\/div>\n <\/p>\n\n <\/p>\n\n<\/div>\nThe antidegradation policies instituted by SWQS are divided into three tiers: Outstanding National Resource Waters (ONRW), Category 1 Waters (C1), and Category 2 Waters (C2). ONRW carries the highest protection and applies to FW1 (nondegradation) and PL (Pinelands) waters. ONRW waters must be maintained in their natural state. The only changes to water quality allowed are those that restore natural water quality. C1 waters are recognized due to their exceptional ecological, recreational, water supply, or fisheries significance. C2 waters protect designated uses and require improvements to waterbodies that do not meet standards. In all three tiers, designated uses and water quality must be maintained and protected, and impairments must be restored to standards.<\/p>\nAntidegradation Factsheet <\/i><\/button><\/a><\/div>\n <\/p>\nAntidegradation Designations\nfor all surface waters of the State<\/button><\/a><\/div>\n[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_tta_section][\/vc_tta_accordion][\/vc_column][\/vc_row]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"[vc_row full_width=”stretch_row_content_no_spaces”][vc_column][vc_single_image image=”357″ img_size=”2000×500″ el_class=”w-100″][vc_column_text] NJ Integrated Water Quality Assessment Report 2022 – General Information Clean Water Act 303(d) List & 305(b) Report [\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][breadcrumb-shortcode][vc_column_text][maxmegamenu location=max_mega_menu_3][\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_tta_accordion color=”blue” spacing=”1″ gap=”15″ c_align=”center” c_icon=”triangle” c_position=”right” active_section=”-1″ collapsible_all=”true”][vc_tta_section title=”Introduction” tab_id=”introduction”][vc_column_text] View 2022 Integrated Report Factsheet Brief Walkthrough Video of our Web-Based Integrated Report New Jersey’s surface waters provide much […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":407,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"fullwidth.php","meta":{"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-3805","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/deptest.nj.gov\/bears\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/3805","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/deptest.nj.gov\/bears\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/deptest.nj.gov\/bears\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/deptest.nj.gov\/bears\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/407"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/deptest.nj.gov\/bears\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=3805"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/deptest.nj.gov\/bears\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/3805\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/deptest.nj.gov\/bears\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=3805"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}
Water Quality Assessment Methods Document <\/i><\/button><\/a><\/div>\n[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”New Jersey Water Resources” tab_id=”new-jersey-water-resources”][vc_column_text css=””]<\/p>\nNew Jersey is the fifth smallest, but most densely populated state in the Nation. NJ is also one of the most geologically and hydrogeologically diverse states. The state has a variety of surface waterbody types that range from intermittent streams to large river systems (a significant number of which are tidally influenced); acres of lakes, ponds, and reservoirs; and miles of estuarine and coastal (ocean) waters. Wetlands are found near most surface waterbodies, both freshwater and saltwater.<\/p>\nNew Jersey’s surface water systems are located in a wide variety of geologic settings, from the past glaciated regions of northern New Jersey to the coastal plain of southern New Jersey, and include ecologically unique and\/or protected areas such as the Pinelands and the Highlands regions.<\/p>\n\n\n\nRESOURCES<\/th>\nEXTENT<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n\n\nState Population (2019) 1<\/sup><\/td>\n8,882,190<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\nState Total Area (square miles)<\/td>\n8,772<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\nState Total Land Area (square miles)<\/td>\n7,254<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\nRivers and Streams:<\/strong>\nMiles of Nontidal Rivers and Streams\nMiles of Tidal Rivers and Streams\nMiles of Rivers and Streams (total)\nBorder Miles Shared Rivers<\/td>\n–\n13,695\n5,730\n19,425\n197<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\nLakes, Ponds and Reservoirs:<\/strong>\nTotal Acres of Lakes and Ponds and Reservoirs\nNumber of Reservoirs\nAcres of Reservoirs<\/td>\n–\n47,620\n43\n14,970<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\nEstuaries and Ocean:<\/strong>\nSquare Miles of Estuaries\nMiles of Ocean Coast (linear miles)\nSquare Miles of Ocean (jurisdictional waters)<\/td>\n–\n650\n127\n470<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\nWetlands:<\/strong>\nAcres of Freshwater Wetlands\nAcres of Tidal Wetlands\nTotal Acres of Wetlands<\/td>\n–\n739,160\n209,269\n948,429<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n1) 2019 US Census estimate\nSpatial extents shown in this table are calculated based on 1:24,000 scale from the Department’s GIS coverages for the applicable water resource including the National Hydrography Dataset (NHD), surface water quality classification, lakes, coastal waters, and wetlands (2002).<\/span>[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”Data Sources” tab_id=”data-sources”][vc_column_text css=””]<\/p>\n\n<\/p>\nData Organizations contributing to the Integrated Report<\/div>\n <\/p>\nData organizations <\/i><\/button><\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n <\/p>\nThe DEP employs an integrated approach to assessing water quality by compiling a vast amount of water monitoring data and related information collected by numerous sources throughout the state.<\/p>\nWhile the principal contributor of water quality data used for assessment purposes is generated by the DEP, numerous monitoring organizations and other partners also collect relevant data. These include federal and county government agencies, regional commissions (e.g., Pinelands Commission) watershed associations and other voluntary citizen monitoring, and utility organizations.<\/p>\nAll monitoring data must have an approved Quality Assurance Project Plan (QAPP) that includes acceptable sampling procedures. Information for developing QAPPs, sampling protocols and other resources for water monitoring may be found on the DEP\u2019s website.<\/p>\nLearn more about\nWater Monitoring Protocols and Resources<\/button><\/a><\/div>\n <\/p>\n\nThe Department’s most recent data solicitation covering the monitoring data in the Integrated Report and 303(d) List from the 2020 through 2026 assessment cycles can be found here as public noticed in New Jersey Register Volume 50<\/a>, Issue 13, July 2, 2018 (50 N.J.R. 1507(b))<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n <\/p>\n\nDEP\u2019s strategic goal outlined in the “New Jersey Water Monitoring & Assessment Strategy (2022-2032)” to develop a comprehensive monitoring program for all waters of the state has resulted in a drastic increase in the number of monitoring stations and samples collected over the last decade. In collaboration with other water monitoring stakeholders and agencies, the number of AUs with data has risen significantly and has resulted in a comprehensive understanding of water quality conditions.<\/p>\nSince 2006 which is the first Integrated Report that AUs were based on HUC14 sub-watersheds, the number of unassessed designated uses caused by insufficient data declined from 38% to only 18% AUs with insufficient data, the number of AUs with at least one designated use assessed rose to 97% statewide, and the number of AUs where all of the designated uses are assessed rose over 35% to 62% statewide1<\/sup>.<\/p>\nNew Jersey Water Monitoring and Assessment Strategy <\/i><\/button><\/div>\n1. This includes all of the designated uses except for fish consumption.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n <\/p>\nLearn more about important Stakeholders in the Northeast Region <\/i><\/button><\/div>\n <\/p>\nDatabases Used in the Integrated Report<\/h5>\n\n\n\n\u00a0 Data Web Site<\/th>\n\u00a0 Description<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n\n\nThe Water Quality Portal (WQP)<\/a><\/td>\nPrimary water quality data portal. All data collected by the DEP and other monitoring organizations is accessed through the WQP. Does not include continuous data.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\nDEP Continuous Data Monitoring<\/a><\/td>\nAccess continuous data collected by the DEP<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\nUSGS Continuous Data Monitoring<\/a><\/td>\nAccess continuous data collected by the USGS<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\nRecreational Beach Conditions<\/a><\/td>\nFind current beach status, water quality sample results, reports of beach advisories and beach closings, and information on other events that affect beaches.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\nShellfish Harvesting Conditions<\/a><\/td>\nFind current shellfish harvesting classification including data from monitoring stations.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\nEcoSHEDS<\/a><\/td>\nFind current continuous stream temperature data collected by NJ stakeholders.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”Water Quality Categories” tab_id=”water-quality-categories”][vc_column_text]<\/p>\nWater quality assessments are categorized into three statuses, Fully Supporting, Not Supporting, or Insufficient Data for assessment. Based on EPA guidance, these statuses are placed in sublists for the Integrated Report as described in the table below. In addition, subparts are added to Sublist 4 and Sublist 5 to help clarify the response strategy for impairments.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n\u00a0 Sublists<\/th>\n\u00a0 Description<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n\n\nSublist 1 \/ Sublist 2<\/strong><\/td>\nAn assessment unit is Fully Supporting<\/strong> designated uses and no uses are threatened.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\nSublist 3<\/strong><\/td>\nInsufficient Data<\/strong> and information to determine if the designated use is fully supported or not supported.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\nSublist 4<\/strong><\/td>\nOne or more designated uses are Not Supported<\/strong> or are threatened but TMDL development is not required because of one of the following reasons:<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n\u00a0 \u00a0 Sublist 4A<\/strong><\/td>\nA TMDL has been completed for the parameter causing designated use non-support.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n\u00a0 \u00a0 Sublist 4B<\/strong><\/td>\nOther enforceable pollutant control measures are reasonably expected to result in fully supporting the designated use in the near future.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n\u00a0 \u00a0 Sublist 4C<\/strong><\/td>\nNon-support of the designated use is caused by something other than a pollutant.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\nSublist 5 (303(d))<\/strong><\/td>\nOne or more designated uses are Not Supported<\/strong> or are threatened by a pollutant(s), that requires development of a TMDL.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n\u00a0 \u00a0 Sublist 5A<\/strong><\/td>\nArsenic does not attain standards, but concentrations are below those demonstrated to be from naturally occurring conditions.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n\u00a0 \u00a0 Sublist 5L<\/strong><\/td>\nDesignated use impairment is caused by a “legacy pollutant” that is no longer actively manufactured or discharged by a point source.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n\u00a0 \u00a0 Sublist 5R<\/strong><\/td>\nWater quality impairment is not effectively addressed by a TMDL, such as nonpoint source pollution that will be controlled under an approved watershed restoration plan or 319(h) Watershed Based Plan.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n <\/p>\n\nSublist 5 – Pollutants placed on the 303(d) List, also identify their priority ranking for TMDL development (High, Medium, Low). TMDLs for pollutants identified on Sublists 5A, 5L and 5R are assigned a low priority for TMDL development since alternative restoration measures are being pursued.<\/p>\nSublist 5R – Development of a watershed restoration plan can be an effective alternative to a formal TMDL to characterize pollutant sources, the reductions needed to attain standards, and the means to achieve the reductions. The DEP is pursuing this approach where stormwater and nonpoint sources of pollution are considered to be the predominant source of water quality impairment.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”Surface Water Quality Standards” tab_id=”surface-water-quality-standards”][vc_column_text]<\/p>\n\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\nThe Surface Water Quality Standards (SWQS), N.J.A.C. 7:9B, establish the designated uses and antidegradation categories of the State’s surface waters, classify surface waters based on those uses (i.e., stream classifications), and specify the water quality criteria and other policies and provisions necessary to attain those designated uses. Designated uses include water supply for drinking, agriculture and industrial uses, fish consumption, shellfish resources, propagation of fish and wildlife, and recreation. In addition, the SWQS specify general, technical, and interstate policies, and policies pertaining to the establishment of water quality-based effluent limitations.<\/p>\nThe current SWQS rules (N.J.A.C. 7:9B) were readopted in 2016 and amended in 2020. The SWQS are used to develop regulatory requirements for other Department programs that will serve to protect the existing and designated uses of the State’s surface waters. These programs include the New Jersey Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NJPDES) program, Site Remediation Program, and various programs implemented by the Division of Land Use Regulation.<\/p>\nThe SWQS also form the basis for the Integrated Report. Waters that exceed SWQS require the development of total maximum daily loads (TMDLs) or other alternative approaches to address the impairment. The Department has developed a Nutrient Criteria Enhancement Plan (NCEP) to explain the Department’s approach to developing and enhancing the existing SWQS nutrient criteria and policies to protect designated uses of all New Jersey’s surface waters, including saline waters (estuarine and marine).<\/p>\nSurface Water Quality Standards (N.J.A.C. 7:9B) <\/i><\/button><\/a><\/div>\n <\/p>\n\n <\/p>\n\n<\/div>\nThe antidegradation policies instituted by SWQS are divided into three tiers: Outstanding National Resource Waters (ONRW), Category 1 Waters (C1), and Category 2 Waters (C2). ONRW carries the highest protection and applies to FW1 (nondegradation) and PL (Pinelands) waters. ONRW waters must be maintained in their natural state. The only changes to water quality allowed are those that restore natural water quality. C1 waters are recognized due to their exceptional ecological, recreational, water supply, or fisheries significance. C2 waters protect designated uses and require improvements to waterbodies that do not meet standards. In all three tiers, designated uses and water quality must be maintained and protected, and impairments must be restored to standards.<\/p>\nAntidegradation Factsheet <\/i><\/button><\/a><\/div>\n <\/p>\nAntidegradation Designations\nfor all surface waters of the State<\/button><\/a><\/div>\n[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_tta_section][\/vc_tta_accordion][\/vc_column][\/vc_row]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"[vc_row full_width=”stretch_row_content_no_spaces”][vc_column][vc_single_image image=”357″ img_size=”2000×500″ el_class=”w-100″][vc_column_text] NJ Integrated Water Quality Assessment Report 2022 – General Information Clean Water Act 303(d) List & 305(b) Report [\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][breadcrumb-shortcode][vc_column_text][maxmegamenu location=max_mega_menu_3][\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_tta_accordion color=”blue” spacing=”1″ gap=”15″ c_align=”center” c_icon=”triangle” c_position=”right” active_section=”-1″ collapsible_all=”true”][vc_tta_section title=”Introduction” tab_id=”introduction”][vc_column_text] View 2022 Integrated Report Factsheet Brief Walkthrough Video of our Web-Based Integrated Report New Jersey’s surface waters provide much […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":407,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"fullwidth.php","meta":{"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-3805","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/deptest.nj.gov\/bears\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/3805","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/deptest.nj.gov\/bears\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/deptest.nj.gov\/bears\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/deptest.nj.gov\/bears\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/407"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/deptest.nj.gov\/bears\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=3805"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/deptest.nj.gov\/bears\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/3805\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/deptest.nj.gov\/bears\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=3805"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}
[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”New Jersey Water Resources” tab_id=”new-jersey-water-resources”][vc_column_text css=””]<\/p>\n
New Jersey is the fifth smallest, but most densely populated state in the Nation. NJ is also one of the most geologically and hydrogeologically diverse states. The state has a variety of surface waterbody types that range from intermittent streams to large river systems (a significant number of which are tidally influenced); acres of lakes, ponds, and reservoirs; and miles of estuarine and coastal (ocean) waters. Wetlands are found near most surface waterbodies, both freshwater and saltwater.<\/p>\n
New Jersey’s surface water systems are located in a wide variety of geologic settings, from the past glaciated regions of northern New Jersey to the coastal plain of southern New Jersey, and include ecologically unique and\/or protected areas such as the Pinelands and the Highlands regions.<\/p>\n
1) 2019 US Census estimate\nSpatial extents shown in this table are calculated based on 1:24,000 scale from the Department’s GIS coverages for the applicable water resource including the National Hydrography Dataset (NHD), surface water quality classification, lakes, coastal waters, and wetlands (2002).<\/span>[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”Data Sources” tab_id=”data-sources”][vc_column_text css=””]<\/p>\n\n<\/p>\nData Organizations contributing to the Integrated Report<\/div>\n <\/p>\nData organizations <\/i><\/button><\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n <\/p>\nThe DEP employs an integrated approach to assessing water quality by compiling a vast amount of water monitoring data and related information collected by numerous sources throughout the state.<\/p>\nWhile the principal contributor of water quality data used for assessment purposes is generated by the DEP, numerous monitoring organizations and other partners also collect relevant data. These include federal and county government agencies, regional commissions (e.g., Pinelands Commission) watershed associations and other voluntary citizen monitoring, and utility organizations.<\/p>\nAll monitoring data must have an approved Quality Assurance Project Plan (QAPP) that includes acceptable sampling procedures. Information for developing QAPPs, sampling protocols and other resources for water monitoring may be found on the DEP\u2019s website.<\/p>\nLearn more about\nWater Monitoring Protocols and Resources<\/button><\/a><\/div>\n <\/p>\n\nThe Department’s most recent data solicitation covering the monitoring data in the Integrated Report and 303(d) List from the 2020 through 2026 assessment cycles can be found here as public noticed in New Jersey Register Volume 50<\/a>, Issue 13, July 2, 2018 (50 N.J.R. 1507(b))<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n <\/p>\n\nDEP\u2019s strategic goal outlined in the “New Jersey Water Monitoring & Assessment Strategy (2022-2032)” to develop a comprehensive monitoring program for all waters of the state has resulted in a drastic increase in the number of monitoring stations and samples collected over the last decade. In collaboration with other water monitoring stakeholders and agencies, the number of AUs with data has risen significantly and has resulted in a comprehensive understanding of water quality conditions.<\/p>\nSince 2006 which is the first Integrated Report that AUs were based on HUC14 sub-watersheds, the number of unassessed designated uses caused by insufficient data declined from 38% to only 18% AUs with insufficient data, the number of AUs with at least one designated use assessed rose to 97% statewide, and the number of AUs where all of the designated uses are assessed rose over 35% to 62% statewide1<\/sup>.<\/p>\nNew Jersey Water Monitoring and Assessment Strategy <\/i><\/button><\/div>\n1. This includes all of the designated uses except for fish consumption.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n <\/p>\nLearn more about important Stakeholders in the Northeast Region <\/i><\/button><\/div>\n <\/p>\nDatabases Used in the Integrated Report<\/h5>\n\n\n\n\u00a0 Data Web Site<\/th>\n\u00a0 Description<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n\n\nThe Water Quality Portal (WQP)<\/a><\/td>\nPrimary water quality data portal. All data collected by the DEP and other monitoring organizations is accessed through the WQP. Does not include continuous data.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\nDEP Continuous Data Monitoring<\/a><\/td>\nAccess continuous data collected by the DEP<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\nUSGS Continuous Data Monitoring<\/a><\/td>\nAccess continuous data collected by the USGS<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\nRecreational Beach Conditions<\/a><\/td>\nFind current beach status, water quality sample results, reports of beach advisories and beach closings, and information on other events that affect beaches.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\nShellfish Harvesting Conditions<\/a><\/td>\nFind current shellfish harvesting classification including data from monitoring stations.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\nEcoSHEDS<\/a><\/td>\nFind current continuous stream temperature data collected by NJ stakeholders.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”Water Quality Categories” tab_id=”water-quality-categories”][vc_column_text]<\/p>\nWater quality assessments are categorized into three statuses, Fully Supporting, Not Supporting, or Insufficient Data for assessment. Based on EPA guidance, these statuses are placed in sublists for the Integrated Report as described in the table below. In addition, subparts are added to Sublist 4 and Sublist 5 to help clarify the response strategy for impairments.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n\u00a0 Sublists<\/th>\n\u00a0 Description<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n\n\nSublist 1 \/ Sublist 2<\/strong><\/td>\nAn assessment unit is Fully Supporting<\/strong> designated uses and no uses are threatened.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\nSublist 3<\/strong><\/td>\nInsufficient Data<\/strong> and information to determine if the designated use is fully supported or not supported.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\nSublist 4<\/strong><\/td>\nOne or more designated uses are Not Supported<\/strong> or are threatened but TMDL development is not required because of one of the following reasons:<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n\u00a0 \u00a0 Sublist 4A<\/strong><\/td>\nA TMDL has been completed for the parameter causing designated use non-support.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n\u00a0 \u00a0 Sublist 4B<\/strong><\/td>\nOther enforceable pollutant control measures are reasonably expected to result in fully supporting the designated use in the near future.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n\u00a0 \u00a0 Sublist 4C<\/strong><\/td>\nNon-support of the designated use is caused by something other than a pollutant.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\nSublist 5 (303(d))<\/strong><\/td>\nOne or more designated uses are Not Supported<\/strong> or are threatened by a pollutant(s), that requires development of a TMDL.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n\u00a0 \u00a0 Sublist 5A<\/strong><\/td>\nArsenic does not attain standards, but concentrations are below those demonstrated to be from naturally occurring conditions.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n\u00a0 \u00a0 Sublist 5L<\/strong><\/td>\nDesignated use impairment is caused by a “legacy pollutant” that is no longer actively manufactured or discharged by a point source.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n\u00a0 \u00a0 Sublist 5R<\/strong><\/td>\nWater quality impairment is not effectively addressed by a TMDL, such as nonpoint source pollution that will be controlled under an approved watershed restoration plan or 319(h) Watershed Based Plan.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n <\/p>\n\nSublist 5 – Pollutants placed on the 303(d) List, also identify their priority ranking for TMDL development (High, Medium, Low). TMDLs for pollutants identified on Sublists 5A, 5L and 5R are assigned a low priority for TMDL development since alternative restoration measures are being pursued.<\/p>\nSublist 5R – Development of a watershed restoration plan can be an effective alternative to a formal TMDL to characterize pollutant sources, the reductions needed to attain standards, and the means to achieve the reductions. The DEP is pursuing this approach where stormwater and nonpoint sources of pollution are considered to be the predominant source of water quality impairment.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”Surface Water Quality Standards” tab_id=”surface-water-quality-standards”][vc_column_text]<\/p>\n\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\nThe Surface Water Quality Standards (SWQS), N.J.A.C. 7:9B, establish the designated uses and antidegradation categories of the State’s surface waters, classify surface waters based on those uses (i.e., stream classifications), and specify the water quality criteria and other policies and provisions necessary to attain those designated uses. Designated uses include water supply for drinking, agriculture and industrial uses, fish consumption, shellfish resources, propagation of fish and wildlife, and recreation. In addition, the SWQS specify general, technical, and interstate policies, and policies pertaining to the establishment of water quality-based effluent limitations.<\/p>\nThe current SWQS rules (N.J.A.C. 7:9B) were readopted in 2016 and amended in 2020. The SWQS are used to develop regulatory requirements for other Department programs that will serve to protect the existing and designated uses of the State’s surface waters. These programs include the New Jersey Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NJPDES) program, Site Remediation Program, and various programs implemented by the Division of Land Use Regulation.<\/p>\nThe SWQS also form the basis for the Integrated Report. Waters that exceed SWQS require the development of total maximum daily loads (TMDLs) or other alternative approaches to address the impairment. The Department has developed a Nutrient Criteria Enhancement Plan (NCEP) to explain the Department’s approach to developing and enhancing the existing SWQS nutrient criteria and policies to protect designated uses of all New Jersey’s surface waters, including saline waters (estuarine and marine).<\/p>\nSurface Water Quality Standards (N.J.A.C. 7:9B) <\/i><\/button><\/a><\/div>\n <\/p>\n\n <\/p>\n\n<\/div>\nThe antidegradation policies instituted by SWQS are divided into three tiers: Outstanding National Resource Waters (ONRW), Category 1 Waters (C1), and Category 2 Waters (C2). ONRW carries the highest protection and applies to FW1 (nondegradation) and PL (Pinelands) waters. ONRW waters must be maintained in their natural state. The only changes to water quality allowed are those that restore natural water quality. C1 waters are recognized due to their exceptional ecological, recreational, water supply, or fisheries significance. C2 waters protect designated uses and require improvements to waterbodies that do not meet standards. In all three tiers, designated uses and water quality must be maintained and protected, and impairments must be restored to standards.<\/p>\nAntidegradation Factsheet <\/i><\/button><\/a><\/div>\n <\/p>\nAntidegradation Designations\nfor all surface waters of the State<\/button><\/a><\/div>\n[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_tta_section][\/vc_tta_accordion][\/vc_column][\/vc_row]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"[vc_row full_width=”stretch_row_content_no_spaces”][vc_column][vc_single_image image=”357″ img_size=”2000×500″ el_class=”w-100″][vc_column_text] NJ Integrated Water Quality Assessment Report 2022 – General Information Clean Water Act 303(d) List & 305(b) Report [\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][breadcrumb-shortcode][vc_column_text][maxmegamenu location=max_mega_menu_3][\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_tta_accordion color=”blue” spacing=”1″ gap=”15″ c_align=”center” c_icon=”triangle” c_position=”right” active_section=”-1″ collapsible_all=”true”][vc_tta_section title=”Introduction” tab_id=”introduction”][vc_column_text] View 2022 Integrated Report Factsheet Brief Walkthrough Video of our Web-Based Integrated Report New Jersey’s surface waters provide much […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":407,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"fullwidth.php","meta":{"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-3805","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/deptest.nj.gov\/bears\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/3805","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/deptest.nj.gov\/bears\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/deptest.nj.gov\/bears\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/deptest.nj.gov\/bears\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/407"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/deptest.nj.gov\/bears\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=3805"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/deptest.nj.gov\/bears\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/3805\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/deptest.nj.gov\/bears\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=3805"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}
Data organizations <\/i><\/button><\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n <\/p>\nThe DEP employs an integrated approach to assessing water quality by compiling a vast amount of water monitoring data and related information collected by numerous sources throughout the state.<\/p>\nWhile the principal contributor of water quality data used for assessment purposes is generated by the DEP, numerous monitoring organizations and other partners also collect relevant data. These include federal and county government agencies, regional commissions (e.g., Pinelands Commission) watershed associations and other voluntary citizen monitoring, and utility organizations.<\/p>\nAll monitoring data must have an approved Quality Assurance Project Plan (QAPP) that includes acceptable sampling procedures. Information for developing QAPPs, sampling protocols and other resources for water monitoring may be found on the DEP\u2019s website.<\/p>\nLearn more about\nWater Monitoring Protocols and Resources<\/button><\/a><\/div>\n <\/p>\n\nThe Department’s most recent data solicitation covering the monitoring data in the Integrated Report and 303(d) List from the 2020 through 2026 assessment cycles can be found here as public noticed in New Jersey Register Volume 50<\/a>, Issue 13, July 2, 2018 (50 N.J.R. 1507(b))<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n <\/p>\n\nDEP\u2019s strategic goal outlined in the “New Jersey Water Monitoring & Assessment Strategy (2022-2032)” to develop a comprehensive monitoring program for all waters of the state has resulted in a drastic increase in the number of monitoring stations and samples collected over the last decade. In collaboration with other water monitoring stakeholders and agencies, the number of AUs with data has risen significantly and has resulted in a comprehensive understanding of water quality conditions.<\/p>\nSince 2006 which is the first Integrated Report that AUs were based on HUC14 sub-watersheds, the number of unassessed designated uses caused by insufficient data declined from 38% to only 18% AUs with insufficient data, the number of AUs with at least one designated use assessed rose to 97% statewide, and the number of AUs where all of the designated uses are assessed rose over 35% to 62% statewide1<\/sup>.<\/p>\nNew Jersey Water Monitoring and Assessment Strategy <\/i><\/button><\/div>\n1. This includes all of the designated uses except for fish consumption.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n <\/p>\nLearn more about important Stakeholders in the Northeast Region <\/i><\/button><\/div>\n <\/p>\nDatabases Used in the Integrated Report<\/h5>\n\n\n\n\u00a0 Data Web Site<\/th>\n\u00a0 Description<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n\n\nThe Water Quality Portal (WQP)<\/a><\/td>\nPrimary water quality data portal. All data collected by the DEP and other monitoring organizations is accessed through the WQP. Does not include continuous data.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\nDEP Continuous Data Monitoring<\/a><\/td>\nAccess continuous data collected by the DEP<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\nUSGS Continuous Data Monitoring<\/a><\/td>\nAccess continuous data collected by the USGS<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\nRecreational Beach Conditions<\/a><\/td>\nFind current beach status, water quality sample results, reports of beach advisories and beach closings, and information on other events that affect beaches.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\nShellfish Harvesting Conditions<\/a><\/td>\nFind current shellfish harvesting classification including data from monitoring stations.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\nEcoSHEDS<\/a><\/td>\nFind current continuous stream temperature data collected by NJ stakeholders.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”Water Quality Categories” tab_id=”water-quality-categories”][vc_column_text]<\/p>\nWater quality assessments are categorized into three statuses, Fully Supporting, Not Supporting, or Insufficient Data for assessment. Based on EPA guidance, these statuses are placed in sublists for the Integrated Report as described in the table below. In addition, subparts are added to Sublist 4 and Sublist 5 to help clarify the response strategy for impairments.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n\u00a0 Sublists<\/th>\n\u00a0 Description<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n\n\nSublist 1 \/ Sublist 2<\/strong><\/td>\nAn assessment unit is Fully Supporting<\/strong> designated uses and no uses are threatened.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\nSublist 3<\/strong><\/td>\nInsufficient Data<\/strong> and information to determine if the designated use is fully supported or not supported.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\nSublist 4<\/strong><\/td>\nOne or more designated uses are Not Supported<\/strong> or are threatened but TMDL development is not required because of one of the following reasons:<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n\u00a0 \u00a0 Sublist 4A<\/strong><\/td>\nA TMDL has been completed for the parameter causing designated use non-support.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n\u00a0 \u00a0 Sublist 4B<\/strong><\/td>\nOther enforceable pollutant control measures are reasonably expected to result in fully supporting the designated use in the near future.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n\u00a0 \u00a0 Sublist 4C<\/strong><\/td>\nNon-support of the designated use is caused by something other than a pollutant.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\nSublist 5 (303(d))<\/strong><\/td>\nOne or more designated uses are Not Supported<\/strong> or are threatened by a pollutant(s), that requires development of a TMDL.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n\u00a0 \u00a0 Sublist 5A<\/strong><\/td>\nArsenic does not attain standards, but concentrations are below those demonstrated to be from naturally occurring conditions.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n\u00a0 \u00a0 Sublist 5L<\/strong><\/td>\nDesignated use impairment is caused by a “legacy pollutant” that is no longer actively manufactured or discharged by a point source.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n\u00a0 \u00a0 Sublist 5R<\/strong><\/td>\nWater quality impairment is not effectively addressed by a TMDL, such as nonpoint source pollution that will be controlled under an approved watershed restoration plan or 319(h) Watershed Based Plan.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n <\/p>\n\nSublist 5 – Pollutants placed on the 303(d) List, also identify their priority ranking for TMDL development (High, Medium, Low). TMDLs for pollutants identified on Sublists 5A, 5L and 5R are assigned a low priority for TMDL development since alternative restoration measures are being pursued.<\/p>\nSublist 5R – Development of a watershed restoration plan can be an effective alternative to a formal TMDL to characterize pollutant sources, the reductions needed to attain standards, and the means to achieve the reductions. The DEP is pursuing this approach where stormwater and nonpoint sources of pollution are considered to be the predominant source of water quality impairment.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”Surface Water Quality Standards” tab_id=”surface-water-quality-standards”][vc_column_text]<\/p>\n\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\nThe Surface Water Quality Standards (SWQS), N.J.A.C. 7:9B, establish the designated uses and antidegradation categories of the State’s surface waters, classify surface waters based on those uses (i.e., stream classifications), and specify the water quality criteria and other policies and provisions necessary to attain those designated uses. Designated uses include water supply for drinking, agriculture and industrial uses, fish consumption, shellfish resources, propagation of fish and wildlife, and recreation. In addition, the SWQS specify general, technical, and interstate policies, and policies pertaining to the establishment of water quality-based effluent limitations.<\/p>\nThe current SWQS rules (N.J.A.C. 7:9B) were readopted in 2016 and amended in 2020. The SWQS are used to develop regulatory requirements for other Department programs that will serve to protect the existing and designated uses of the State’s surface waters. These programs include the New Jersey Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NJPDES) program, Site Remediation Program, and various programs implemented by the Division of Land Use Regulation.<\/p>\nThe SWQS also form the basis for the Integrated Report. Waters that exceed SWQS require the development of total maximum daily loads (TMDLs) or other alternative approaches to address the impairment. The Department has developed a Nutrient Criteria Enhancement Plan (NCEP) to explain the Department’s approach to developing and enhancing the existing SWQS nutrient criteria and policies to protect designated uses of all New Jersey’s surface waters, including saline waters (estuarine and marine).<\/p>\nSurface Water Quality Standards (N.J.A.C. 7:9B) <\/i><\/button><\/a><\/div>\n <\/p>\n\n <\/p>\n\n<\/div>\nThe antidegradation policies instituted by SWQS are divided into three tiers: Outstanding National Resource Waters (ONRW), Category 1 Waters (C1), and Category 2 Waters (C2). ONRW carries the highest protection and applies to FW1 (nondegradation) and PL (Pinelands) waters. ONRW waters must be maintained in their natural state. The only changes to water quality allowed are those that restore natural water quality. C1 waters are recognized due to their exceptional ecological, recreational, water supply, or fisheries significance. C2 waters protect designated uses and require improvements to waterbodies that do not meet standards. In all three tiers, designated uses and water quality must be maintained and protected, and impairments must be restored to standards.<\/p>\nAntidegradation Factsheet <\/i><\/button><\/a><\/div>\n <\/p>\nAntidegradation Designations\nfor all surface waters of the State<\/button><\/a><\/div>\n[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_tta_section][\/vc_tta_accordion][\/vc_column][\/vc_row]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"[vc_row full_width=”stretch_row_content_no_spaces”][vc_column][vc_single_image image=”357″ img_size=”2000×500″ el_class=”w-100″][vc_column_text] NJ Integrated Water Quality Assessment Report 2022 – General Information Clean Water Act 303(d) List & 305(b) Report [\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][breadcrumb-shortcode][vc_column_text][maxmegamenu location=max_mega_menu_3][\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_tta_accordion color=”blue” spacing=”1″ gap=”15″ c_align=”center” c_icon=”triangle” c_position=”right” active_section=”-1″ collapsible_all=”true”][vc_tta_section title=”Introduction” tab_id=”introduction”][vc_column_text] View 2022 Integrated Report Factsheet Brief Walkthrough Video of our Web-Based Integrated Report New Jersey’s surface waters provide much […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":407,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"fullwidth.php","meta":{"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-3805","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/deptest.nj.gov\/bears\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/3805","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/deptest.nj.gov\/bears\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/deptest.nj.gov\/bears\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/deptest.nj.gov\/bears\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/407"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/deptest.nj.gov\/bears\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=3805"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/deptest.nj.gov\/bears\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/3805\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/deptest.nj.gov\/bears\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=3805"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}
The DEP employs an integrated approach to assessing water quality by compiling a vast amount of water monitoring data and related information collected by numerous sources throughout the state.<\/p>\n
While the principal contributor of water quality data used for assessment purposes is generated by the DEP, numerous monitoring organizations and other partners also collect relevant data. These include federal and county government agencies, regional commissions (e.g., Pinelands Commission) watershed associations and other voluntary citizen monitoring, and utility organizations.<\/p>\n
All monitoring data must have an approved Quality Assurance Project Plan (QAPP) that includes acceptable sampling procedures. Information for developing QAPPs, sampling protocols and other resources for water monitoring may be found on the DEP\u2019s website.<\/p>\n
The Department’s most recent data solicitation covering the monitoring data in the Integrated Report and 303(d) List from the 2020 through 2026 assessment cycles can be found here as public noticed in New Jersey Register Volume 50<\/a>, Issue 13, July 2, 2018 (50 N.J.R. 1507(b))<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n <\/p>\n\nDEP\u2019s strategic goal outlined in the “New Jersey Water Monitoring & Assessment Strategy (2022-2032)” to develop a comprehensive monitoring program for all waters of the state has resulted in a drastic increase in the number of monitoring stations and samples collected over the last decade. In collaboration with other water monitoring stakeholders and agencies, the number of AUs with data has risen significantly and has resulted in a comprehensive understanding of water quality conditions.<\/p>\nSince 2006 which is the first Integrated Report that AUs were based on HUC14 sub-watersheds, the number of unassessed designated uses caused by insufficient data declined from 38% to only 18% AUs with insufficient data, the number of AUs with at least one designated use assessed rose to 97% statewide, and the number of AUs where all of the designated uses are assessed rose over 35% to 62% statewide1<\/sup>.<\/p>\nNew Jersey Water Monitoring and Assessment Strategy <\/i><\/button><\/div>\n1. This includes all of the designated uses except for fish consumption.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n <\/p>\nLearn more about important Stakeholders in the Northeast Region <\/i><\/button><\/div>\n <\/p>\nDatabases Used in the Integrated Report<\/h5>\n\n\n\n\u00a0 Data Web Site<\/th>\n\u00a0 Description<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n\n\nThe Water Quality Portal (WQP)<\/a><\/td>\nPrimary water quality data portal. All data collected by the DEP and other monitoring organizations is accessed through the WQP. Does not include continuous data.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\nDEP Continuous Data Monitoring<\/a><\/td>\nAccess continuous data collected by the DEP<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\nUSGS Continuous Data Monitoring<\/a><\/td>\nAccess continuous data collected by the USGS<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\nRecreational Beach Conditions<\/a><\/td>\nFind current beach status, water quality sample results, reports of beach advisories and beach closings, and information on other events that affect beaches.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\nShellfish Harvesting Conditions<\/a><\/td>\nFind current shellfish harvesting classification including data from monitoring stations.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\nEcoSHEDS<\/a><\/td>\nFind current continuous stream temperature data collected by NJ stakeholders.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”Water Quality Categories” tab_id=”water-quality-categories”][vc_column_text]<\/p>\nWater quality assessments are categorized into three statuses, Fully Supporting, Not Supporting, or Insufficient Data for assessment. Based on EPA guidance, these statuses are placed in sublists for the Integrated Report as described in the table below. In addition, subparts are added to Sublist 4 and Sublist 5 to help clarify the response strategy for impairments.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n\u00a0 Sublists<\/th>\n\u00a0 Description<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n\n\nSublist 1 \/ Sublist 2<\/strong><\/td>\nAn assessment unit is Fully Supporting<\/strong> designated uses and no uses are threatened.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\nSublist 3<\/strong><\/td>\nInsufficient Data<\/strong> and information to determine if the designated use is fully supported or not supported.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\nSublist 4<\/strong><\/td>\nOne or more designated uses are Not Supported<\/strong> or are threatened but TMDL development is not required because of one of the following reasons:<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n\u00a0 \u00a0 Sublist 4A<\/strong><\/td>\nA TMDL has been completed for the parameter causing designated use non-support.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n\u00a0 \u00a0 Sublist 4B<\/strong><\/td>\nOther enforceable pollutant control measures are reasonably expected to result in fully supporting the designated use in the near future.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n\u00a0 \u00a0 Sublist 4C<\/strong><\/td>\nNon-support of the designated use is caused by something other than a pollutant.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\nSublist 5 (303(d))<\/strong><\/td>\nOne or more designated uses are Not Supported<\/strong> or are threatened by a pollutant(s), that requires development of a TMDL.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n\u00a0 \u00a0 Sublist 5A<\/strong><\/td>\nArsenic does not attain standards, but concentrations are below those demonstrated to be from naturally occurring conditions.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n\u00a0 \u00a0 Sublist 5L<\/strong><\/td>\nDesignated use impairment is caused by a “legacy pollutant” that is no longer actively manufactured or discharged by a point source.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n\u00a0 \u00a0 Sublist 5R<\/strong><\/td>\nWater quality impairment is not effectively addressed by a TMDL, such as nonpoint source pollution that will be controlled under an approved watershed restoration plan or 319(h) Watershed Based Plan.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n <\/p>\n\nSublist 5 – Pollutants placed on the 303(d) List, also identify their priority ranking for TMDL development (High, Medium, Low). TMDLs for pollutants identified on Sublists 5A, 5L and 5R are assigned a low priority for TMDL development since alternative restoration measures are being pursued.<\/p>\nSublist 5R – Development of a watershed restoration plan can be an effective alternative to a formal TMDL to characterize pollutant sources, the reductions needed to attain standards, and the means to achieve the reductions. The DEP is pursuing this approach where stormwater and nonpoint sources of pollution are considered to be the predominant source of water quality impairment.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”Surface Water Quality Standards” tab_id=”surface-water-quality-standards”][vc_column_text]<\/p>\n\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\nThe Surface Water Quality Standards (SWQS), N.J.A.C. 7:9B, establish the designated uses and antidegradation categories of the State’s surface waters, classify surface waters based on those uses (i.e., stream classifications), and specify the water quality criteria and other policies and provisions necessary to attain those designated uses. Designated uses include water supply for drinking, agriculture and industrial uses, fish consumption, shellfish resources, propagation of fish and wildlife, and recreation. In addition, the SWQS specify general, technical, and interstate policies, and policies pertaining to the establishment of water quality-based effluent limitations.<\/p>\nThe current SWQS rules (N.J.A.C. 7:9B) were readopted in 2016 and amended in 2020. The SWQS are used to develop regulatory requirements for other Department programs that will serve to protect the existing and designated uses of the State’s surface waters. These programs include the New Jersey Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NJPDES) program, Site Remediation Program, and various programs implemented by the Division of Land Use Regulation.<\/p>\nThe SWQS also form the basis for the Integrated Report. Waters that exceed SWQS require the development of total maximum daily loads (TMDLs) or other alternative approaches to address the impairment. The Department has developed a Nutrient Criteria Enhancement Plan (NCEP) to explain the Department’s approach to developing and enhancing the existing SWQS nutrient criteria and policies to protect designated uses of all New Jersey’s surface waters, including saline waters (estuarine and marine).<\/p>\nSurface Water Quality Standards (N.J.A.C. 7:9B) <\/i><\/button><\/a><\/div>\n <\/p>\n\n <\/p>\n\n<\/div>\nThe antidegradation policies instituted by SWQS are divided into three tiers: Outstanding National Resource Waters (ONRW), Category 1 Waters (C1), and Category 2 Waters (C2). ONRW carries the highest protection and applies to FW1 (nondegradation) and PL (Pinelands) waters. ONRW waters must be maintained in their natural state. The only changes to water quality allowed are those that restore natural water quality. C1 waters are recognized due to their exceptional ecological, recreational, water supply, or fisheries significance. C2 waters protect designated uses and require improvements to waterbodies that do not meet standards. In all three tiers, designated uses and water quality must be maintained and protected, and impairments must be restored to standards.<\/p>\nAntidegradation Factsheet <\/i><\/button><\/a><\/div>\n <\/p>\nAntidegradation Designations\nfor all surface waters of the State<\/button><\/a><\/div>\n[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_tta_section][\/vc_tta_accordion][\/vc_column][\/vc_row]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"[vc_row full_width=”stretch_row_content_no_spaces”][vc_column][vc_single_image image=”357″ img_size=”2000×500″ el_class=”w-100″][vc_column_text] NJ Integrated Water Quality Assessment Report 2022 – General Information Clean Water Act 303(d) List & 305(b) Report [\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][breadcrumb-shortcode][vc_column_text][maxmegamenu location=max_mega_menu_3][\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_tta_accordion color=”blue” spacing=”1″ gap=”15″ c_align=”center” c_icon=”triangle” c_position=”right” active_section=”-1″ collapsible_all=”true”][vc_tta_section title=”Introduction” tab_id=”introduction”][vc_column_text] View 2022 Integrated Report Factsheet Brief Walkthrough Video of our Web-Based Integrated Report New Jersey’s surface waters provide much […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":407,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"fullwidth.php","meta":{"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-3805","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/deptest.nj.gov\/bears\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/3805","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/deptest.nj.gov\/bears\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/deptest.nj.gov\/bears\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/deptest.nj.gov\/bears\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/407"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/deptest.nj.gov\/bears\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=3805"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/deptest.nj.gov\/bears\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/3805\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/deptest.nj.gov\/bears\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=3805"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}
DEP\u2019s strategic goal outlined in the “New Jersey Water Monitoring & Assessment Strategy (2022-2032)” to develop a comprehensive monitoring program for all waters of the state has resulted in a drastic increase in the number of monitoring stations and samples collected over the last decade. In collaboration with other water monitoring stakeholders and agencies, the number of AUs with data has risen significantly and has resulted in a comprehensive understanding of water quality conditions.<\/p>\n
Since 2006 which is the first Integrated Report that AUs were based on HUC14 sub-watersheds, the number of unassessed designated uses caused by insufficient data declined from 38% to only 18% AUs with insufficient data, the number of AUs with at least one designated use assessed rose to 97% statewide, and the number of AUs where all of the designated uses are assessed rose over 35% to 62% statewide1<\/sup>.<\/p>\nNew Jersey Water Monitoring and Assessment Strategy <\/i><\/button><\/div>\n1. This includes all of the designated uses except for fish consumption.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n <\/p>\nLearn more about important Stakeholders in the Northeast Region <\/i><\/button><\/div>\n <\/p>\nDatabases Used in the Integrated Report<\/h5>\n\n\n\n\u00a0 Data Web Site<\/th>\n\u00a0 Description<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n\n\nThe Water Quality Portal (WQP)<\/a><\/td>\nPrimary water quality data portal. All data collected by the DEP and other monitoring organizations is accessed through the WQP. Does not include continuous data.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\nDEP Continuous Data Monitoring<\/a><\/td>\nAccess continuous data collected by the DEP<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\nUSGS Continuous Data Monitoring<\/a><\/td>\nAccess continuous data collected by the USGS<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\nRecreational Beach Conditions<\/a><\/td>\nFind current beach status, water quality sample results, reports of beach advisories and beach closings, and information on other events that affect beaches.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\nShellfish Harvesting Conditions<\/a><\/td>\nFind current shellfish harvesting classification including data from monitoring stations.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\nEcoSHEDS<\/a><\/td>\nFind current continuous stream temperature data collected by NJ stakeholders.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”Water Quality Categories” tab_id=”water-quality-categories”][vc_column_text]<\/p>\nWater quality assessments are categorized into three statuses, Fully Supporting, Not Supporting, or Insufficient Data for assessment. Based on EPA guidance, these statuses are placed in sublists for the Integrated Report as described in the table below. In addition, subparts are added to Sublist 4 and Sublist 5 to help clarify the response strategy for impairments.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n\u00a0 Sublists<\/th>\n\u00a0 Description<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n\n\nSublist 1 \/ Sublist 2<\/strong><\/td>\nAn assessment unit is Fully Supporting<\/strong> designated uses and no uses are threatened.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\nSublist 3<\/strong><\/td>\nInsufficient Data<\/strong> and information to determine if the designated use is fully supported or not supported.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\nSublist 4<\/strong><\/td>\nOne or more designated uses are Not Supported<\/strong> or are threatened but TMDL development is not required because of one of the following reasons:<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n\u00a0 \u00a0 Sublist 4A<\/strong><\/td>\nA TMDL has been completed for the parameter causing designated use non-support.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n\u00a0 \u00a0 Sublist 4B<\/strong><\/td>\nOther enforceable pollutant control measures are reasonably expected to result in fully supporting the designated use in the near future.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n\u00a0 \u00a0 Sublist 4C<\/strong><\/td>\nNon-support of the designated use is caused by something other than a pollutant.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\nSublist 5 (303(d))<\/strong><\/td>\nOne or more designated uses are Not Supported<\/strong> or are threatened by a pollutant(s), that requires development of a TMDL.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n\u00a0 \u00a0 Sublist 5A<\/strong><\/td>\nArsenic does not attain standards, but concentrations are below those demonstrated to be from naturally occurring conditions.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n\u00a0 \u00a0 Sublist 5L<\/strong><\/td>\nDesignated use impairment is caused by a “legacy pollutant” that is no longer actively manufactured or discharged by a point source.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n\u00a0 \u00a0 Sublist 5R<\/strong><\/td>\nWater quality impairment is not effectively addressed by a TMDL, such as nonpoint source pollution that will be controlled under an approved watershed restoration plan or 319(h) Watershed Based Plan.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n <\/p>\n\nSublist 5 – Pollutants placed on the 303(d) List, also identify their priority ranking for TMDL development (High, Medium, Low). TMDLs for pollutants identified on Sublists 5A, 5L and 5R are assigned a low priority for TMDL development since alternative restoration measures are being pursued.<\/p>\nSublist 5R – Development of a watershed restoration plan can be an effective alternative to a formal TMDL to characterize pollutant sources, the reductions needed to attain standards, and the means to achieve the reductions. The DEP is pursuing this approach where stormwater and nonpoint sources of pollution are considered to be the predominant source of water quality impairment.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”Surface Water Quality Standards” tab_id=”surface-water-quality-standards”][vc_column_text]<\/p>\n\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\nThe Surface Water Quality Standards (SWQS), N.J.A.C. 7:9B, establish the designated uses and antidegradation categories of the State’s surface waters, classify surface waters based on those uses (i.e., stream classifications), and specify the water quality criteria and other policies and provisions necessary to attain those designated uses. Designated uses include water supply for drinking, agriculture and industrial uses, fish consumption, shellfish resources, propagation of fish and wildlife, and recreation. In addition, the SWQS specify general, technical, and interstate policies, and policies pertaining to the establishment of water quality-based effluent limitations.<\/p>\nThe current SWQS rules (N.J.A.C. 7:9B) were readopted in 2016 and amended in 2020. The SWQS are used to develop regulatory requirements for other Department programs that will serve to protect the existing and designated uses of the State’s surface waters. These programs include the New Jersey Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NJPDES) program, Site Remediation Program, and various programs implemented by the Division of Land Use Regulation.<\/p>\nThe SWQS also form the basis for the Integrated Report. Waters that exceed SWQS require the development of total maximum daily loads (TMDLs) or other alternative approaches to address the impairment. The Department has developed a Nutrient Criteria Enhancement Plan (NCEP) to explain the Department’s approach to developing and enhancing the existing SWQS nutrient criteria and policies to protect designated uses of all New Jersey’s surface waters, including saline waters (estuarine and marine).<\/p>\nSurface Water Quality Standards (N.J.A.C. 7:9B) <\/i><\/button><\/a><\/div>\n <\/p>\n\n <\/p>\n\n<\/div>\nThe antidegradation policies instituted by SWQS are divided into three tiers: Outstanding National Resource Waters (ONRW), Category 1 Waters (C1), and Category 2 Waters (C2). ONRW carries the highest protection and applies to FW1 (nondegradation) and PL (Pinelands) waters. ONRW waters must be maintained in their natural state. The only changes to water quality allowed are those that restore natural water quality. C1 waters are recognized due to their exceptional ecological, recreational, water supply, or fisheries significance. C2 waters protect designated uses and require improvements to waterbodies that do not meet standards. In all three tiers, designated uses and water quality must be maintained and protected, and impairments must be restored to standards.<\/p>\nAntidegradation Factsheet <\/i><\/button><\/a><\/div>\n <\/p>\nAntidegradation Designations\nfor all surface waters of the State<\/button><\/a><\/div>\n[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_tta_section][\/vc_tta_accordion][\/vc_column][\/vc_row]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"[vc_row full_width=”stretch_row_content_no_spaces”][vc_column][vc_single_image image=”357″ img_size=”2000×500″ el_class=”w-100″][vc_column_text] NJ Integrated Water Quality Assessment Report 2022 – General Information Clean Water Act 303(d) List & 305(b) Report [\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][breadcrumb-shortcode][vc_column_text][maxmegamenu location=max_mega_menu_3][\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_tta_accordion color=”blue” spacing=”1″ gap=”15″ c_align=”center” c_icon=”triangle” c_position=”right” active_section=”-1″ collapsible_all=”true”][vc_tta_section title=”Introduction” tab_id=”introduction”][vc_column_text] View 2022 Integrated Report Factsheet Brief Walkthrough Video of our Web-Based Integrated Report New Jersey’s surface waters provide much […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":407,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"fullwidth.php","meta":{"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-3805","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/deptest.nj.gov\/bears\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/3805","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/deptest.nj.gov\/bears\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/deptest.nj.gov\/bears\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/deptest.nj.gov\/bears\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/407"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/deptest.nj.gov\/bears\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=3805"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/deptest.nj.gov\/bears\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/3805\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/deptest.nj.gov\/bears\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=3805"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}
1. This includes all of the designated uses except for fish consumption.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n
[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”Water Quality Categories” tab_id=”water-quality-categories”][vc_column_text]<\/p>\n
Water quality assessments are categorized into three statuses, Fully Supporting, Not Supporting, or Insufficient Data for assessment. Based on EPA guidance, these statuses are placed in sublists for the Integrated Report as described in the table below. In addition, subparts are added to Sublist 4 and Sublist 5 to help clarify the response strategy for impairments.<\/p>\n
Sublist 5 – Pollutants placed on the 303(d) List, also identify their priority ranking for TMDL development (High, Medium, Low). TMDLs for pollutants identified on Sublists 5A, 5L and 5R are assigned a low priority for TMDL development since alternative restoration measures are being pursued.<\/p>\n
Sublist 5R – Development of a watershed restoration plan can be an effective alternative to a formal TMDL to characterize pollutant sources, the reductions needed to attain standards, and the means to achieve the reductions. The DEP is pursuing this approach where stormwater and nonpoint sources of pollution are considered to be the predominant source of water quality impairment.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n
[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”Surface Water Quality Standards” tab_id=”surface-water-quality-standards”][vc_column_text]<\/p>\n
<\/div>\n
The Surface Water Quality Standards (SWQS), N.J.A.C. 7:9B, establish the designated uses and antidegradation categories of the State’s surface waters, classify surface waters based on those uses (i.e., stream classifications), and specify the water quality criteria and other policies and provisions necessary to attain those designated uses. Designated uses include water supply for drinking, agriculture and industrial uses, fish consumption, shellfish resources, propagation of fish and wildlife, and recreation. In addition, the SWQS specify general, technical, and interstate policies, and policies pertaining to the establishment of water quality-based effluent limitations.<\/p>\n
The current SWQS rules (N.J.A.C. 7:9B) were readopted in 2016 and amended in 2020. The SWQS are used to develop regulatory requirements for other Department programs that will serve to protect the existing and designated uses of the State’s surface waters. These programs include the New Jersey Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NJPDES) program, Site Remediation Program, and various programs implemented by the Division of Land Use Regulation.<\/p>\n
The SWQS also form the basis for the Integrated Report. Waters that exceed SWQS require the development of total maximum daily loads (TMDLs) or other alternative approaches to address the impairment. The Department has developed a Nutrient Criteria Enhancement Plan (NCEP) to explain the Department’s approach to developing and enhancing the existing SWQS nutrient criteria and policies to protect designated uses of all New Jersey’s surface waters, including saline waters (estuarine and marine).<\/p>\n
The antidegradation policies instituted by SWQS are divided into three tiers: Outstanding National Resource Waters (ONRW), Category 1 Waters (C1), and Category 2 Waters (C2). ONRW carries the highest protection and applies to FW1 (nondegradation) and PL (Pinelands) waters. ONRW waters must be maintained in their natural state. The only changes to water quality allowed are those that restore natural water quality. C1 waters are recognized due to their exceptional ecological, recreational, water supply, or fisheries significance. C2 waters protect designated uses and require improvements to waterbodies that do not meet standards. In all three tiers, designated uses and water quality must be maintained and protected, and impairments must be restored to standards.<\/p>\n
[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_tta_section][\/vc_tta_accordion][\/vc_column][\/vc_row]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
[vc_row full_width=”stretch_row_content_no_spaces”][vc_column][vc_single_image image=”357″ img_size=”2000×500″ el_class=”w-100″][vc_column_text] NJ Integrated Water Quality Assessment Report 2022 – General Information Clean Water Act 303(d) List & 305(b) Report [\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][breadcrumb-shortcode][vc_column_text][maxmegamenu location=max_mega_menu_3][\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_tta_accordion color=”blue” spacing=”1″ gap=”15″ c_align=”center” c_icon=”triangle” c_position=”right” active_section=”-1″ collapsible_all=”true”][vc_tta_section title=”Introduction” tab_id=”introduction”][vc_column_text] View 2022 Integrated Report Factsheet Brief Walkthrough Video of our Web-Based Integrated Report New Jersey’s surface waters provide much […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":407,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"fullwidth.php","meta":{"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-3805","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/deptest.nj.gov\/bears\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/3805","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/deptest.nj.gov\/bears\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/deptest.nj.gov\/bears\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/deptest.nj.gov\/bears\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/407"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/deptest.nj.gov\/bears\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=3805"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/deptest.nj.gov\/bears\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/3805\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/deptest.nj.gov\/bears\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=3805"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}