Planning Unit
Utilizing a watershed approach, the Planning Unit conducts activities
and implements programs for the protection and restoration of Illinois'
water resources. The objective of the Planning Unit's Watershed Management
Program is to develop an integrated holistic process that will effectively
and efficiently protect, enhance and restore the physical, chemical and
biological integrity of water resources within a defined hydrologic area
(watershed).
Initiatives such as the Targeted Watershed Approach, and the Unified
Watershed Assessment and Watershed Restoration Priorities for Illinois
are mechanisms used to direct available resources, prioritize planning
efforts, and to coordinate programs and initiatives between Illinois EPA
and other natural resource agencies and organizations. Watershed Planning
initiatives are conducted and promoted based on the document Guidance
for Developing Watershed Implementation Plans in Illinois which integrates
water pollution control and drinking water issues, integrates regulatory
and non-regulatory programs and addresses surface and ground water issues.
The Planning Unit implements the Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) program
in accordance with Section 303(d) of the federal Clean Water Act. Illinois
EPA views TMDLs as a tool to be utilized for developing water quality
based solutions that are incorporated into an overall watershed management
approach. Impaired waters on the 303(d) List are required to have TMDLs
developed for water quality attainment.
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