Water Quality Assessment

Every two years, DEQ is required to assess water quality and report to EPA on the condition of Oregon's waters. DEQ prepares an Integrated Report that meets the requirements of the federal Clean Water Act (CWA) for Section 305(b) and Section 303(d).

• CWA Section 305(b) requires a report on the overall condition of Oregon's waters.
• CWA Section 303(d) requires identifying waters that do not meet water quality standards and where a Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL*) needs to be developed.

The Integrated Report includes an assessment of each water body where credible data are readily available, and the list of waters identified under Section 303(d) as water quality limited and needing a TMDL.

The Integrated Reports from 2002 and 2004/2006 can be found at the links below. DEQ submitted Oregon’s 2010 Integrated Report to EPA in January 2011. DEQ conducted additional evaluation and submitted a supplement to the 2010 Integrated Report to EPA following a public comment period in May 2011. EPA has yet to approve or disapprove the 2010 Integrated Report.

The 2012 Integrated Report is due to EPA in April 2012. For the 2012 Integrated Report DEQ is planning to implement the Watershed Approach, as well as, focus our data gathering in two priority basins: Willamette and Umatilla. The 2012 Call for Data period for the 2012 Integrated Report is Dec. 16, 2011 until Jan. 31, 2012.

*A TMDL is the calculated amount of pollutant a water body can receive and still meet Oregon water quality standards.