Clean Waters Act

The Clean Water Act is a U.S. law aimed at protecting the country's waters—like rivers, lakes, and streams—from pollution. It sets standards to limit harmful pollutants discharged into water bodies by factories, farms, and municipalities. The law also authorizes the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to enforce these standards, regulate sewage and industrial waste disposal, and promote cleanup of polluted waters. Its goal is to ensure that water remains safe for drinking, recreation, aquatic life, and ecosystems, balancing environmental health with economic and community needs.