What is the primary goal of a water quality management plan (WQMP)?

The primary goal of a water quality management plan (WQMP) is to protect water resources by managing pollutants. This approach involves identifying sources of pollution, assessing their impact on water quality, and implementing strategies to mitigate these effects. A WQMP helps ensure that water remains safe for various uses, including drinking, recreation, and habitat for wildlife, while maintaining the ecological balance necessary for healthy ecosystems.

By focusing on managing pollutants rather than completely eliminating them, the plan acknowledges the complexities of water systems and the realities of human activity. It allows for practical solutions that can lead to significant improvements in water quality over time, rather than pursuing an unattainable goal of total pollutant elimination, which may not be feasible or necessary in all contexts.

This focus is pivotal because it helps prioritize limited resources and funding towards achieving measurable improvements in water quality while supporting sustainable water use practices.