Implementing Clean Water Act Non-Point Source Provisions in California

The Bureau of Land Management California State Office created a Best Management Practices’ guide to provide agency staff with direction for implementing non-point source pollution provisions of the Clean Water Act 1977, as amended.  This guidance provides for the protection of water quality and comes at a critical time for aquatic resources on public lands.  The diversity and intensity of public land uses are increasing.  A renewed focus on water quality is needed to protect water supplies and habitats for species of management concern. 

This Instruction Memorandum (IM) establishes the California Clean Water Act Best Management Practices for use by planners and other participants in National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA).  Practices include activities and procedures that are implemented as part of an action to reduce or eliminate non-point source pollution to aquatic systems.  The practices are monitored after project completion and after snowmelt or significant rain event.  Training will be available to assist field office personnel in choosing the Best Management Practices for NEPA, using the practices for implementation of projects and monitoring effectiveness in protecting water quality.