Best Practices EPA strongly recommends that States/Tribes communicate with EPA Regional staff and the public early in the review process—and keep them actively involved throughout the review.

Question. Why is EPA involvement beneficial to States/Tribes?
Answer. EPA can:

• Provide input into review plans.
• Identify new criteria/guidance that might affect revision or development of standards.
• Help bring in services (e.g., for a consultation on water quality issues related to the Endangered Species Act).

Question. Why is public involvement beneficial to States/Tribes?
Answer. Public input can:

• Improve the scientific basis of decisions.
• Clarify areas of uncertainty.
• Help resolve issues efficiently.
• Help build support for proposed decisions.

Resource. EPA's Public Involvement webpage can help with engaging the public in the decision-making processes.

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