What is the basis for the Proactive Approach in waters impaired by bacteria?
A number of bacteria TMDLs have been developed throughout Virginia and the nation. The findings for bacteria impairments have consistently demonstrated a commonality in the corrective actions that are needed to restore the stream so that it meets water quality standards. In rural agricultural areas, the elimination of cattle access to streams is the single most important corrective action, followed by the repair and/or replacement of failing septic systems. In rural residential areas, repair and/or replacement of failing septic systems and the elimination of straight pipes top the list of corrective actions. In urban areas, the maintenance of wastewater infrastructures and the control of pet waste are the top two items. Because of the consistent findings in the TMDL studies to date, the proactive approach proposes the implementation of corrective actions in advance of the TMDL. More detailed information on bacteria control strategies can be found at the following web site: http://www.w
