INTRODUCTION The intent of this publication is to provide the user with basic information about state water quality agencies@ standards@ and programs in an easily accessible format. As such@ the document is divided into two parts. Section II provides an overview to this Guide by presenting tables which summarize@ for all states@ information on: (1) water quality parameters for which states have promulgated standards@ (2) dates of Implementation and status of EPA acceptance@ (3) plans for revision@ (4) waste load allocation programs@ and (5) existence of antidegradation policies. Section III provides an alphabetically arranged guide to water quality standards for each of the fifty United States@ plus the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico. Information presented for each state Includes an indication of where standards may be obtained and whom to contact about water quality policy. Also described are the organizational structures of the standards@ water use classifications@ notable exceptions@ pending revisions@ information on the waste load allocation program@ and a contact person for NPDES permits. A summary of existing numerical and narrative criteria and use designations for each state is included. Each summary table follows a standard format@ so the reader can easily compare standards from different states. An attempt was made to verify the information presented herein and to incorporate any revisions of state standards made during the latter half of 1979. Information presented In Section III was sent to each state for review and approval during the Fall of 1979. The date and result of such review is given in the lower right-hand corner of the cover page for each state. The Institute intends to update this Guide on a periodic basis since Section 303 (c) (1) of the Clean Water Act requires each state to review and revise@ as appropriate@ their water quality standards at least once every three years (see Table 3@ pp. 18 and 19). A notice of the availability of such update will be sent to all recipients of the handbook.