State’s Role in Implementing Water Pollution Control Programs

According to the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA), Illinois is recognized as a leader among states in the control of water pollution. In 1951, the state begins requiring a state construction permit for wastewater treatment facilities. Illinois’ Environmental Protection Act of 1970 precedes the establishment of the corresponding federal program in 1972. When the federal government requires secondary sewage treatment, 99% of Illinois discharges are already in compliance (IEPA 1976).

The framework for water pollution control activities within the state is established with passage of the Environmental Protection Act of 1970. The purpose of this law is to:

• Establish a unified, statewide program;
• Restore, protect, and enhance the quality of the environment; and
• Assure that adverse effects upon the environment are “fully considered and borne by those who cause them.”

The Illinois Water Pollution Control Board (PCB) establishes regulations, including water quality standards. The IEPA is then responsible for implementation of these regulations and functions as the water pollution control agency under the CWA. USEPA requires each state to designate an agency responsible for the conduct and coordination of the planning under the CWA. IEPA is so designated on February 26, 1976.

With passage of the 1972 FWPCA amendments, Congress requires in Section 303(e) that each state establish and implement a “Continuing Planning Process.” Each state is to prepare “Water Quality Management Basin Plan, Phase I” before July 1, 1976. Between July 1, 1976 and November 1, 1978, Phase II is to be prepared.

The purpose of water quality planning in Illinois is to (IEPA 1976):

• Provide decision makers with an up-to-date assessment of water quality and program management information to allow for coordinated decision-making;
• Encourage water quality objectives that take into account overall state policies and programs; and
• Furnish strategic guidance for developing an annual program plan.

Phase I of the Water Quality Management Basin Plan is to identify water quality problems and to identify interim actions needed to alleviate these problems. Phase II is to determine the measures necessary to achieve the water quality goals required by state and federal laws (IEPA 1976).