Section 303(d) of the Clean Water Act: What does it mean for fisheries?

This article focuses on the role of Section 303(d) of the Clean Water Act (CWA) in identifying impaired waters and developing Total Maximum Daily Loads (TMDLs) to restore water quality, emphasizing the benefits of fisheries professionals’ involvement in this process. Section 303(d) requires authorized states, territories, and tribes to list polluted waters and create plans to meet water quality standards, which can improve aquatic habitats and fisheries. Two case studies—the Blackfoot River watershed in Montana and Richland Creek in North Carolina—illustrate how collaboration between fisheries and water quality professionals through the 303(d) process has led to measurable improvements in water quality and fish populations. The article encourages fisheries professionals to engage actively with water quality practitioners to enhance data sharing, fill knowledge gaps, and support integrated watershed restoration efforts.