Water Quality Standards are regulations that set specific criteria for the quality of water in various environments, such as rivers, lakes, and oceans. These standards help ensure that water is safe for human use, aquatic life, and the overall ecosystem. They typically include limits on pollutants, temperature, and other factors that can affect water health. Governments and organizations, like the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), establish these standards to protect public health and the environment. Monitoring water quality against these standards helps identify pollution sources and informs necessary actions to maintain or improve water conditions.