US EPA launches interactive web tool to inform public about water violations

The interactive web tools are part of the EPA’s Clean Water Act Action Plan to work with states in ensuring that facilities comply with Clean Water Act standards. The new web page provides interactive information from the EPA’s 2008 Annual Noncompliance Report which includes approximately 40,000 permitted Clean Water Act dischargers across America. The web page makes it easy for the public to compare states by compliance rates and enforcement actions taken, and provides access to updated State Review Framework reports.

Cynthia Giles, assistant administrator for EPA’s Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance, said: “EPA is taking another important step to increase transparency and keep Americans informed about the safety of their local waters. Making this information more accessible and understandable empowers millions of people to press for better compliance and enforcement in their communities.”