This page contains useful information and literature for water quality biologists and managers on various nutrient criteria topics. Click on the links provided to access each document.

Click here to link to nutrient ecoregion map.

Lessons Learned:
Elements of Good Nutrient Criteria Development Planning

These elements were developed from information provided by EPA, but do not represent EPA policy.  Rather, they are recommended steps based on experience generated over the last 5 years of nutrient criteria development.

1. A specific list of parameters for which criteria will be set.
2. A rationale for key parameters (N, P, Chl [SAV], TSS [turbidity, Secchi depth]) that will not be included in the plan.
3. The type of criteria (numeric or qualitative with a numeric translator) that will be developed.
4. The approach being used for nutrient criteria development.
5. The order of priority by waterbody type for numeric nutrient criteria development.
6. A discussion of how those priorities were determined.
7. Classification schemes used for waterbody types.
8. How criteria will be applied: statewide, ecoregional, subecoregional, or other.
9. The approach for waters shared across political boundaries.
10. The status of current data availability and adequacy, and a discussion of how data gaps will be filled.
11. A date-specific schedule for major milestones (with mention of uncertainties).
12. Mention of administrative steps required for adoption into water quality standards.
13. The schedule and process for review and plan revisions.

For more information on these components, please contact Amy Parker (202-566-1341).

Water quality concerns in the Florida Keys:  Sources, effects, and solutions.

The role of headwater streams in downstream water quality. Article from the Journal of the American Water Resources Association