Prior to developing the 303(d) and Integrated Lists, states are required to publish the methods used to collect, analyze, and interpret data to determine compliance with applicable water quality standards and assess support of applicable designated uses. This Methods Document serves that function by providing an objective and scientifically sound assessment methodology, including:

• A description of the data DEP will use to assess support of the designated uses;
• The quality assurance aspects of the data and rationale for any decision to not use any existing and readily available data and information;
• A description of the methods used to evaluate compliance with the SWQS and determine placement on the 303(d) List;
• A description of the methods used to evaluate designated use support and determine placement on the Integrated List;
• Changes in assessment methodology since the last reporting cycle.

In 2013, USEPA issued guidance on a new vision and national goals for meeting the goals of the CWA Section 303(d). The Vision Document provides alternative strategies to restore impaired waters under USEPA’s emphasis on TMDLs as the sole means to attain designated uses and water quality standards. USEPA’s vision provides additional flexibility under the 303(d) Program for states to identify and prioritize waterbodies for restoration and protection through whatever means are appropriate under existing programs regulatory frameworks, and achieve water quality objectives in accordance with the state’s priorities.

Beginning with the 2014 Integrated Report, the DEP published the “New Jersey’s Vision Approach for Assessment, Restoration and Protection of Water Resources under the Clean Water Act Section 303(d) Program” explaining New Jersey’s strategy for managing the CWA Section 303(d) Program in accordance with guidance issued by USEPA. The new vision includes 6 goals: Engagement, Integration, Protection, Prioritization, Alternatives, and Assessment.

New Jersey’s Vision Approach is designed to accomplish both federal and State water quality goals through statewide ambient water quality monitoring, water quality standards that protect and support designated uses of New Jersey’s waters; assessment of water quality to determine support of designated uses; development, implementation and funding of strategies to protect and restore water resources; and communication and partnership with the public.

DEP’s strategic goal outlined in the “New Jersey Long Term Monitoring and Assessment Strategy (2022-2032)” to develop a comprehensive monitoring program for all waters of the state has resulted in a drastic increase in the number of monitoring stations and samples collected over the last decade. In collaboration with other water monitoring stakeholders and agencies, the number of AUs with data has risen significantly and has resulted in a comprehensive understanding of water quality conditions.

The monitoring program strategy covers all waters of the state (streams, rivers, lakes, reservoirs, estuaries, coastal areas, wetlands and ground water). For each waterbody type, the strategy includes discussions of 9 basic elements: 1. Monitoring objectives, 2. Monitoring design, 3. Core & supplemental water quality indicators, 4. Quality assurance, 5. Data management, 6. Data analysis/assessment, 7. Reporting, 8. Programmatic evaluation, and 9. General support and infrastructure planning.