The US Environmental Protection Agency is the federal agency responsible for oversight of the recreational water quality initiative within the United States. The Beach Watch website provides valuable summary information on recreational water quality for the entire United States. Currently, there is summary data on more than 1800 beaches throughout the United States. At this site, you can also link to state and/or county data on recreational water quality testing results and other information related to recreational water quality.

The Beaches Environmental Assessment and Coastal Health Act (Public Law 106-284) published in October, 2000, defines the scope and responsibilities of all levels of government with respect to coastal beach safety and health.

Director's Orders 83 is the governing document that describes the Public Health Program expectations of Park Managers. The requirements outlined in DO 83 are in keeping with the requirements as set forth in the Management Policies of the National Park Service, GPRAct requirements and the NPS Strategic Plan(large file).

Within the National Park Service, some recreational waters are not monitored by state and/or county authorities and ensuring recreational water quality is the responsibility of park management.

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