Which federal program requires a permit to regulate wastewater discharges in Minnesota?

The National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Permit is a program under the Clean Water Act that is specifically designed to regulate the discharge of pollutants into waters of the United States, including wastewater discharges in states like Minnesota. The main goal of the NPDES is to ensure that permit holders comply with set limits on specific pollutants to protect water quality and aquatic habitats.

Permits issued under the NPDES program require that the discharges meet certain standards and conditions, promoting the overall health of water bodies by preventing harmful pollutants from entering them. This system is vital for maintaining water quality and is enforced by state and federal agencies, ensuring that necessary measures are taken to manage and reduce pollution effectively.

In contrast, while the Aquatic Plant Management Permit may be relevant to managing specific aquatic plants, it does not govern general wastewater discharges. The EPA Registration pertains to pesticide use rather than wastewater management. The Clean Water Act is the overarching legislation but does not provide the permitting mechanism directly; it establishes the framework under which the NPDES operates. Thus, the NPDES Permit is the specific program that requires permits for wastewater discharges.