Surface Water Protection

Surface waters in Arizona are protected and improved based on their designated uses. These designated uses support aquatic life, wildlife and activities, such as a providing public drinking water or recreation. Some waters may have multiple designated uses. The designated uses are measured against established water quality standards protective of the designated use.

ADEQ protects and enhances Arizona surface water bodies for their designated uses through:

What are surface water designated uses? | Learn More >

Interested in our new Surface Water Protection Program for discharge to non-WOTUS Waters? | Learn More >