Water Standards Limits

Water standards are standards determining the quality of drinking water in the context of prevailing environmental, social, economic and cultural conditions, with reference to the presence of suspended matter, excess salts, unpleasant taste and all harmful microbes. A water quality standard defines the water quality goals of a water body or portion thereof, in part, by designating the use or uses to be made of the water. States adopt water quality standards to protect public health or welfare, enhance the quality of water.

Typical designated uses include:

1. Protection and propagation of fish, shellfish and wildlife

2. Recreation

3. Public drinking water supply

4. Agricultural, industrial, navigational and other purposes.