How will the specific actions needed to clean the Bay be identified and their implementation planned?
Based on EPA’s expectations for the TMDL, the state will develop watershed implementation plans (WIPs) to estimate the pollution reductions needed to meet the allocations. This will include two-year milestones to track its progress. An extensive outreach process with localities, soil and water conservation districts, planning districts, permitted dischargers and other stakeholders will be used to help identify appropriate and achievable implementation actions identified in the WIPs. It is anticipated that the final WIP will require a significant expansion and acceleration of existing programs and practices as well as a variety of new and innovative approaches to address the problem. As the process progresses, it will become more clear what specific actions will be needed in each source sector and segment in order for the Bay, its tributaries and local waters to meet the nutrient and sediment targets and achieve the desired living resource response.
