Sources of polluted run-off such as cesspits, septic tanks and agricultural fields must comply with enforceable pollution prevention programs in the coastal states. Sewage from boats must be stopped. No discharge zones for boats must be designated and enforced. Mangroves are free, natural filters of pollution and should be protected at all costs. Protecting the wetlands, mangrove forests, and sea grasses that provide the transition from land to sea is the least costly way we can protect water quality.
Treatment is far more expensive and less effective than prevention.
Through oversight, Congress has the ability to emphasize under-enforced provisions of the Clean Water Act that would address standard setting, boat discharge, protection of wetlands and mangroves, and ocean discharge of sewage in coral reefs. Through legislation you could strengthen coral reef protection by improving polluted run-off control programs and emphasizing the special nature of reefs. Finally, giving EPA and the states enough money to accomplish their Clean Water Act goals. The Coastal Zone Management Act also has provisions for addressing polluted run-off in the coastal zone and for managing coastal development to minimize environmental damage. The polluted run-off sections of this Act have always been funded well below authorized levels.