TMDLs (Total Maximum Daily Loading) define how much of a pollutant a water body can tolerate on a daily basis & still meet the relevant water quality standards. All of the sources of the pollutant in the watershed combined, including non-point sources, are limited to discharging no more than that total limit. EPA is suing states to force them to produce TMDLs. A growing number of California's water bodies are either subject to consent decrees to develop TMDLs, or are the subject of notices of intent to file lawsuits that may have that outcome. This report addresses California's many problems in establishing TMDLs for its impaired water bodies.

This 592-page spiral-bound reference provides a baseline of information for all those involved with managing living marine resources in California and chronicles changes that have occurred in many of the state’s fisheries. Organized by marine ecosystems: bays and estuaries, nearshore and offshore. Includes illustrated species descriptions with details of biological knowledge, fishery history, landings data, population status and references. Also includes sections on marine birds and mammals and appendices containing management considerations (by species), a glossary of technical terms and acronyms and fishing gear illustrations. Jointly produced by the California Sea Grant Extension Program and the California Department of Fish and Game following the passage of the Marine Life Protection Act in January 1999.