"The objective of this Act is to restore and maintain the chemical, physical, and biological integrity of the Nation’s waters.”

- Federal Water Pollution Control Act, 33 U.S.C. 1251 § 101(a)

The Federal Water Pollution Control Act (also known as the Clean Water Act) preserves the rights and responsibilities of states to manage and reduce pollution levels, and to preserve and develop both land and water resources.

According to the Act, Congress must also aid in research relating to the management of pollution and provide financial assistance to state and interstate agencies involved in the prevention and reduction of pollution. Furthermore, the President shall take action to ensure that foreign nations are taking actions to control pollution levels in their waters and in international waters, and to achieve the same standards for improvement of water quality as set forth by the United States.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is the lead agency under the Clean Water Act, working with other federal agencies, as well as state and local authorities, to meet the objectives of this act.