Watershed Planning

Development of a watershed based plan (WBP) is the key step in the efforts to restore our rivers and streams from the impacts of nonpoint sources of pollution. The plans focus on addressing issues identified by the impaired streams list and TMDLs, with the ultimate goal of restoring the waterbody so it can meet water quality standards. The NPS Program may be able to provide technical and/or financial assistance for plan development; to learn more contact your regional Basin Coordinator. WBP is a document that includes an introduction (background and geographic extent of the watershed), followed by nine elements that must be included in order for the plan to qualify for §319 funding.

Watershed Approach
 
 

Resources


Watershed Planning Guidance


Models and Other Resources Related to Watershed Planning

In certain cases §319 funds may be available for healthy watersheds that are not yet impaired, but may be threatened. In this case the plan becomes a Watershed Protection Plan (WPP). WPP's format is similar to a WBP. ​

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