Final answer:
The Clean Water Act of 1972 has led to significant improvements in U.S. water quality, but issues still remain as over 40,000 water bodies are still impaired. The Act enforced water quality standards and made it illegal to release pollution without a permit, yet further progress is required.
Step-by-step explanation:
The correct answer to the student's question is A. Most of our water is improving, but still has a long way to go. The Clean Water Act of 1972 was a pivotal step in addressing rampant water pollution from industrialization in the United States. While it led to significant improvements, evidence from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) suggests that over 40,000 U.S. water bodies are still considered impaired, commonly due to contaminants like pathogens, metals, and nutrients. The Act made it unlawful to dispose of pollutants into surface water without a permit, thereby setting water quality standards and establishing water quality criteria to protect bodies of water and their uses.
Moreover, the amendment of the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) in 1996 has further helped protect water sources, although challenges like groundwater contamination remain. Water treatment facilities also adhere to standards established to maintain the quality of water provided to the public. Despite this progress, continued efforts are necessary to address ongoing pollution challenges.