The Earth is a water planet. Seen from space, the earth appears as a blue oasis covered by swirling white clouds. Life on Earth is dependent upon a safe water supply, and protecting this most vital resource is key to humanity’s ability to sustain itself.

Water quality refers to the quality of the surface waters of our planet – things like creeks, small and large streams, springs, glacial melt water, fiords, bays, estuaries, seas and oceans. In North Carolina, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources’ Water Quality Division regulate interior and coastal waters.