State Water Resources Control Board

The State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) was created by the Legislature in 1967. The mission of the SWRCB is to ensure the highest reasonable quality for waters of the State, while allocating those waters to achieve the optimum balance of beneficial uses. The joint authority of water allocation and water quality protection enables the SWRCB to provide comprehensive protection for California's waters.

The SWRCB consists of five full-time salaried Members, each filling a different specialty position. Currently, there is one vacancy. Board members are appointed to four-year terms by the Governor and confirmed by the Senate.

There are nine Regional Water Quality Control Boards (RWQCB). The mission of the RWQCBs is to develop and enforce water quality objectives and implementation plans which will best protect the beneficial uses of the State's waters, recognizing local differences in climate, topography, geology and hydrology.

Each RWQCB has nine part-time Members also appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the Senate. RWQCBs develop "basin plans" for their hydrologic areas, govern requirements/issue waste discharge permits, take enforcement action against violators, and monitor water quality.

The task of protecting and enforcing the many uses of water, including the needs of industry, agriculture, municipal districts, and the environment is an ongoing challenge for the SWRCB and RWQCBs. For more information about the State Water Resources Control Board, visit their web site at www.swrcb.ca.gov.