Water classification (designated use) data are stored in WATERS. Under NR102 there are four "official" use designations (Fish and Aquatic Life, Recreation, Public Health and Welfare, and Drinking Water). All waters of the state are designated to meet full fish and aquatic life ("default") unless otherwise indicated through a fish and aquatic life use designation attainability analysis or variance listing in NR104.
Waters that have been classified through in state administrative codes NR102 or NR104 may have the following category:
Waterbodies not specifically listed in these codes carry the "default" designated use indicating that the fish and aquatic life use of these waters has not been specifically determined. The water is thus assumed to meet the the full fish and aquatic life use designation. For more information, please refer to the Water Quality Report to Congress or the state's Water Evaluation Section Water Quality Standards webpages.
Streams that have designated uses other than the "default" category can be found in NR102, NR104 --and by reference -- in the 1980 Blue Book of Trout Waters.
Updating designated use data in WATERS began in 2005 and is ongoing. Regional Water Quality Biologists will review and update this data during watershed planning.