This data set provides the water quality classifications of New York State's lakes, rivers, streams and ponds, collectively referred to as water bodies. All water bodies in the state are provided a water quality classification based on existing, or expected best usage, of each water body or water body segment. Under New York State's Environmental Conservation Law (ECL), Title 5 of Article 15, certain waters of the state are protected on the basis of their classification. Streams and small water bodies located in the course of a stream that are designated as C (T) or higher (i.e., C (TS), B, or A) are collectively referred to as "protected streams.

For more information see https://dec.ny.gov/environmental-protection/water/water-quality/standards-classifications

1. The public should not make any business decisions and/or financial commitments based on the water quality classification data until they have secured the necessary permissions from the Department of Environmental Conservation. 2. The NYSDEC asks to be credited in derived products. 3. Secondary distribution of the data is not allowed. 4. Any documentation provided is an integral part of the data set. Failure to use the documentation in conjunction with the digital data constitutes a misuse of the data. 5. Although every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of information, errors may be reflected in data supplied. The user must be aware of data conditions and bear responsibility for the appropriate use of the information with respect to possible errors, original map scale, collection methodology, currency of data, and other condition.