TMDLs (Total Maximum Daily Loads)

Total Maximum Daily Loads (TMDLs) are regulatory limits established for pollutants in a water body to protect water quality and ecosystem health. They represent the maximum amount of a specific pollutant that can enter a water body each day while allowing it to meet water quality standards. TMDLs account for existing pollution sources and include a plan to reduce pollution levels. Essentially, they help ensure the water remains safe and healthy for people, wildlife, and recreation by controlling pollution inputs to sustainable levels.