Water Quality Conditions in the Omaha District: 2005 Annual Report

The Omaha District District of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Corps is implementing a Water Quality Management Program WQMP as prut of the operation and maintenance activities associated with managing the Corps civil works projects in the District. The WQMP addresses surface water quality management issues and adheres to the guidance and requirements specified in the Corps Engineering Regulation - ER 1110-2-8154, Water Quality and Environmental Management for Corps Civil Works Projects USACE, 1995. The following four goals have been established for the Districts WQMP USACE, 2006a 1 Ensure that water quality, as affected by District projects and their regulation, is suitable for project purposes, existing water uses, and public health and safety, and is in compliance with applicable Federal and State water quality standards. 2 Establish and maintain a water quality monitoring and data evaluation program that facilitates the achievement of water quality management objectives, allows for the characterization of water quality conditions, and defines the influence of District projects on water quality. 3 Establish and maintain strong working partnerships and collaboration with appropriate entities within and outside the Corps regarding water quality management at District projects. 4 Document the water quality management activities of the Districts Water Quality Management Program, including water quality conditions at Corps projects, to record trends, identify problems and accomplishments, and provide guidance to program and project managers. Water quality data collection and assessment are of paramount importance to the implementation of the Districts WQMP. The annual report of water quality conditions is prepared to document and assess water quality conditions occurring at Corps civil works projects in the District. The report describes existing water quality conditions and identifies any evident surface water quality management concerns.