Which are possible designated uses of surface waters?

Designated uses of surface waters encompass a broad range of applications and ecosystems that our water bodies support. In the case of this question, the concept of designated uses includes various categories that serve different purposes and highlight the importance of water quality for several stakeholders.

Municipal waters refer to water sources that are treated and used for public supply, including drinking water needs. This is a crucial designated use as it supports the health and safety of communities.

Contact recreation encompasses activities such as swimming, boating, and fishing, where individuals come into direct contact with the water. The water must meet certain quality standards to ensure safety for those engaging in recreational activities.

Wildlife habitat refers to the role surface waters play in providing essential living and breeding environments for various species of animals and plants. This use emphasizes the ecological importance of water bodies and the need to maintain their quality to support biodiversity.

Therefore, all the options listed—municipal waters, contact recreation, and wildlife habitat—are indeed recognized as possible designated uses of surface waters, leading to the conclusion that all of these categories collectively represent the diverse functions that surface waters provide.