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Total Maximum Daily Load


Over the years, the quality of some Illinois lakes, rivers, and streams has been impaired by pollutants from a variety of sources. However, since the signing of the federal Clean Water Act (CWA) in 1972, water quality has improved greatly, primarily through regulation of point source discharges. Although great strides have been made in restoring our state waters, there are still degraded lakes, streams, and rivers that need attention. Restoring their quality is crucial in maintaining a healthy environment and ensuring the sustainability of these waters for all to use and enjoy.

  • TMDL is short for Total Maximum Daily Load. It determines the greatest amount of a given pollutant that a water body can receive without violating water quality standards and designated uses.

  • TMDLs set pollution reduction goals that are necessary to improve the quality of impaired waters.

  • A TMDL takes a watershed approach in determining the pollutant load that can be allowed in a given lake or stream. By taking a watershed approach, a TMDL considers all potential sources of pollutants, both point and non-point sources. It also takes into account a margin of safety, which reflects scientific uncertainty and future growth. The effects of seasonal variation are also included.
  • In short, a TMDL is calculated using the following equation:

    TMDL= WLA + LA + MOS + SV

    Where: WLA= Waste Load Allocation (point sources)
    LA= Load Allocation (non-point sources)
    MOS= Margin of Safety
    SV= Seasonal Variation

  • Section 303(d) of the Clean Water Act does not require the inclusion of an Implementation Plan as part of a TMDL. However, Illinois EPA has taken the initiative to include Implementation Plans for every TMDL that is developed. (Implementation Plans are further explained in The TMDL Process).

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