National Water Quality Assessment Program (NAWQA)

The National Water Quality Assessment Program (NAWQA) is an initiative by the U.S. Geological Survey aimed at evaluating the quality of the nation’s surface and groundwater. Established in the 1990s, NAWQA studies various factors affecting water quality, including pollution from agriculture, urban areas, and natural sources. The program collects and analyzes samples to understand trends over time and to assess the health of water resources. By providing comprehensive data, NAWQA helps inform policymakers, scientists, and the public about water quality issues and supports efforts to protect and improve water resources across the country.