Clean Water Act

This course provides an overview of the Clean Water Act, its key provisions, and its role in protecting the nation’s water resources. Participants will learn about regulatory requirements, recent legal challenges, and the importance of safeguarding water quality for public health and the environment.

Understand the significance of the Clean Water Act in protecting U.S. water resources since 1972
Explore key provisions of the Clean Water Act, including:
Section 401: State and Tribal water quality certifications
Section 402: National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permits
Section 404: Permits for dredging and filling wetlands and waterways
Section 319: Programs addressing nonpoint source pollution
Learn about recent legal challenges, such as the 2023 Sackett v. EPA decision, and their impact on water protections
Examine real-world consequences of weakened protections, including increased pollution, habitat loss, and environmental justice concerns
Understand EPA’s monitoring programs, including UCMR 5, which tracks emerging contaminants like PFAS and lithium
Explore the role of wetlands and streams in filtering pollutants, preventing floods, and safeguarding drinking water
Learn about cybersecurity threats to water infrastructure and EPA’s recommendations for mitigation

Certificate of Completion in Clean Water Act Awareness

Clean Water Act (CWA) of 1972 Section 401, 402, 404, and 319 of the Clean Water Act EPA National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) regulations EPA Unregulated Contaminant Monitoring Rule (UCMR 5)

This course is ideal for environmental professionals, regulatory compliance officers, and anyone involved in water resource management. Emphasis is placed on understanding the Clean Water Act’s provisions, current challenges, and the importance of protecting water resources for future generations.