EPA Approves New Waterway Classification for Florida Despite Environmental Opposition

The U. S. Environmental Protection Agency has approved a new waterway classification system that some environmentalists say will allow more water pollution.

Florida previously had five waterway classifications ranging in protection from drinking water supplies (Class I) to utility and industrial use (Class V). Most waterways have been designated as Class III for fishing and swimming.

But the Environmental Regulation Commission in 2010 approved an additional "Class III Limited" category that provides water quality for only limited recreation and limited populations of fish and wildlife. The EPA approved the new classification system in a Sept. 6 letter....