In addition, biological techniques provide a platform for communicating more effectively to the public the condition of the Nation's waters so that the public will better understand the importance of participating in and supporting water quality standards decision making. First, EPA must complete the issuance of a series of biocriteria technical guidance manuals. These manuals provide States and Tribes with scientific information and procedures used to conduct bioassessments and develop biocriteria. Biocriteria are developed by the States and Tribes by applying these methods to the eco-region found within each State or Tribal nation. EPA has published the manual for developing biocriteria for streams and small rivers.
Manuals covering other waterbody types are in preparation.
Once the biocriteria technical guidance documents are complete, States and Tribes will need additional resources and expertise to derive biocriteria specific to each eco-region and to incorporate biocriteria into their water quality standards. EPA will assist the States and Tribes in doing this. Policy, programmatic and legal issues or questions often arise as States and Tribes develop the scientific and technical capabilities to implement biocriteria. EPA will assist the States and Tribes with the programmatic and policy aspects of biocriteria implementation. Publishing biocriteria implementation guidance.