In some areas of the country, states are issuing "surrogate" Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) orders that use impervious cover, flow or other factors as a surrogates for pollutant load limits in impaired streams. The intent is to develop a pragmatic, simplified approach to addressing the complex web of urbanization impacts on stream health. While the ultimate end goal is the same – improved biological health of the stream – the implementation is focused on tangible actions that communities can take to disconnect impervious cover and reduce runoff volume.

This webinar will explore how these TMDLs were developed, how they are working (or not), and whether or not they are a viable alternative to a traditional TMDL. Case studies from CT and Maine will be highlighted.

While the majority of national water quality programs focus on impaired waters, the U.S. EPA's Healthy Watersheds program focuses on the conservation and protection of the healthy ones. The program focuses on identifying healthy watersheds and then pursuing a variety of Conservation approaches. Many of the approaches dovetail very nicely with the NEMO approach – watershed assessment and analysis using GIS, green infrastructure and landscape conservation, land protection, land use ordinances, etc. While the initiative is relatively new, it is one we are likely to hear a lot more about soon. This webinar will focus on what the program is, where it's going, and how outreach programs like NEMO can contribute to it.