Course Activities
This lesson provides a practical introduction to Pennsylvania’s Department of Environmental Protection Water Quality Standards (WQS). Participants will learn to describe the three core elements of DEP’s WQS, recognize categories of protected water uses with concrete examples, and locate applicable standards in Chapter 93 of the Pennsylvania Code. Through guided practice using reference documents and DEP’s GIS tools, learners will gain confidence in identifying protected uses and applying WQS to real-world water resource scenarios.
- This lesson provides an overview of how wetlands are classified and protected under Pennsylvania regulations and how wetlands and their protection are part of the ater quality standards for Pennsylvania under Chapter 93 and 96. Participants will learn how wetlands are designated as surface waters, the distinction between “Other” and Exceptional Value (EV) wetlands. The lesson also explains how Chapters 93, 96, and 105 work together to safeguard wetlands through regulatory standards and antidegradation requirements. Emphasis is placed on the importance of consulting qualified experts to ensure accurate wetland classification and informed decision-making that supports long-term wetland and watershed protection.