Water Quality

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• Water Quality Planning ListServ

• Water Quality Planner ListServ

• Connecticut Water Quality Action Plans

• The Housatonic River and Polychlorinated Biphenyls

• Phosphorus Reduction Strategy for Inland Non-tidal Waters

  Phosphorus Reduction Strategy for Inland Non-tidal Waters

• Presentations, Comments and Summaries from two PA 12-155 Public Meetings

• Water Quality Standards and Classification

  The Connecticut Water Quality Standards establish the water quality goals of Connecticut's waterbodies and form the foundation of Connecticut's water management programs.

• Connecticut Water Quality Standards 2011 Revisions

• Phosphorus PA12-155 Coordinating Committee and Workgroup Proceedings

• Triennial Review Archive

• Proposed Water Quality Standards

  Proposed amendments to Connecticut’s Water Quality Standards 2009.

• 2013 Proposed Water Quality Standards Regulations

  Previous (2013) proposed changes to the Connecticut Water Quality Standards.

• Water Quality Classification Maps

  Water Quality Classification Maps by Town.

• Fact Sheet for the Water Quality Standards and Classifications

  The Connecticut Water Quality Standards form the foundation of water quality programs in CT. This fact sheet provides a summary of water quality classification definitions and provides general information.

• Cyanobacteria Blooms

  Cyanobacteria, also known as blue-green algae, occur naturally in lakes and ponds throughout Connecticut.  These microscopic organisms often go unnoticed and cause no harm.  However, excessive nutrient pollution and climate change are causing waterbodies to experience more frequent nuisance cyanobacteria blooms that may produce and release toxins.  When cyanobacteria blooms release toxins, people and animals using the water body for recreation can have health effects.  It is important to note that not all algal blooms are harmful algae blooms (HABs), however it is not possible to determine the level of toxins in the water without a more detailed evaluation. Out of precaution it is best to avoid direct contact with water experiencing a bloom.  When in doubt, stay out!