The 1948 Federal
Stream-Pollution-Control Law
Carl E. Schwob
Sanitary Engineer Director
Water Pollution Control Section
Public Health Service
Washington, D. C.
The enactment of the Water Pollution Control Act on June 30,
1948, represents the culmination of efforts over a period of some years
by the many groups interested in the prevention and control of water
pollution. It represents a compromise between various groups which
heretofore have been in disagreement on some of the points involved
in the legislation. As a compromise it may prove to have some shortcomings; but, I believe, it contitutes an important first step in dealing
with this increasingly grave problem on a nationwide and more effective basis.
By the enactment of the new Water Pollution Control Act, Congress
was not evidencing any intent that the federal government infringe upon
the responsibilities or rights of the states. Section 1 clearly indicates that
philosophy. The federal government, however, has some responsibilities
in this field, as have the local units of government and the industries
concerned. In short, the program contemplated by the new law is one
in which all of us have a deep interest and concern and one which, therefore, requires our joint efforts and cooperation. The sponsors and supporters of the new law were convinced of this and indicated that we
could never hope to cope with our water-pollution problems without
such an effort and such cooperation. Success in dealing with our water-
pollution problems will require comprehensive programs for attacking
existing pollution and preventing new pollution. We cannot hope to
carry out these programs without the cooperation of all parties concerned. This is, as I see it, the main theme of the new law and the
precept upon which administration of the Public Health Service's functions will be based.
Section 2 of the new Water Control Act leaves no room for question on this score. It states that the Surgeon General of the Public
Health Service is to prepare or adopt comprehensive programs for the
elimination or reduction of pollution and the improving of the sanitary
condition of our waters, after careful investigation and in cooperation
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