From everything I've read, I understood that the State Water Resources Control Board sets standards to 1) protect water quality 2)allocated surface water rights
on the other hand, the Regional Water Quality Control Board develops and enforces water quality objectives and is mainly in charge of water quality monitoring. From what I have understood the RWQCB does not have control over allocation of surface water rights...
Based on a question in the Whole Enchilada I have realized that I have understood the responsibilities of these water agencies incorrectly, or David Doucette's answer is wrong.
here is the question that was asked:
What issues would the Regional Water Quality Control Board be interested in for review of this project? (project is an industrial manufacturing plant with a creek running along closeby)
1)stormwater runoff
2)water rights of adjacent creek
3)wastewater treatment
4)wetlands protection
Answer Options:
a) 1,2,& 4
b)1,2 & 3
c)1 & 2
d)2 & 3
Correct Answer: B
--since I thought that the RWQCB WASN'T in charge of water rights I automatically was confused. The next thing that threw me off is the fact that a "creek" is not considered a wetland.
so can someone please explain to me 1-why the RWQCB may have interest in reviewing for water rights since this is the responsibility of the SWRCB and also 2-why a creek is not a wetland since it has the characteristics of one.