Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection redesignates 98 streams high quality

From the Pa. Department of Environmental Protection

Harrisburg — The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection recently announced final approval of a statewide effort to redesignate more than 530 miles of streams across 34 counties as High Quality Waters – expanding protections for 98 streams that support thriving ecosystems, wild trout populations, outdoor recreation and clean drinking water sources.

The action follows earlier Fish & Boat Commission decisions classifying the streams as Class A Wild Trout Streams, recognizing them among the commonwealth’s highest-quality cold-water fisheries.

The newly protected waterways include nearly 340 stream miles within Pennsylvania’s portion of the Chesapeake Bay watershed.

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The action comes as Pennsylvania has earned its highest Chesapeake Bay watershed health grade in more than two decades, reflecting continued progress to restore and protect the Susquehanna River and downstream waterways.

“Pennsylvania is home to some of the best trout fishing and most beautiful waterways anywhere in the country, and today’s action helps ensure these streams remain clean and protected for future generations,” said DEP Secretary Jessica Shirley.

“By redesignating these streams as High Quality Waters, we are strengthening safeguards against pollution, protecting critical habitats, and supporting outdoor recreation and local economies across the commonwealth.”

“Ensuring high water quality is vital to preserving and maintaining the wild trout fisheries these streams support,” said Fish & Boat Commission Executive Director Tim Schaeffer.

“These protections will help conserve some of Pennsylvania’s most valuable natural resources while expanding recreational opportunities for anglers and outdoor enthusiasts,” he said.

High Quality Waters are streams, rivers, and lakes that meet exceptionally high water quality standards and support healthy aquatic ecosystems and warrant stronger regulatory protections to ensure that they retain those benefits.

Under the redesignation, any future development or discharge permits impacting these waterways will be subject to stricter environmental protections to maintain existing water quality conditions.

DEP’s final regulation was approved by the Independent Regulatory Review Commission and will now be submitted to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for final federal approval and implementation through DEP permitting and regulatory programs.