Which federal agency is responsible for administering the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System permitting?

The agency responsible for administering the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permitting is the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The NPDES is a critical component of the Clean Water Act, established to regulate discharges of pollutants into the waters of the United States. The EPA oversees this program to ensure that the water quality standards are met, thereby protecting the environment and public health.

The role of the EPA includes issuing permits, establishing regulations and limits for various pollutants, and ensuring compliance among industries and municipalities that discharge wastewater. This is essential for maintaining and improving water quality across the nation.

The other agencies mentioned, such as the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), have different responsibilities that do not encompass water quality and pollution control. The FDA primarily deals with food safety and drug approval, the USDA focuses on agriculture and food-related resources, while OSHA concentrates on occupational health and safety regulations. Thus, the EPA's jurisdiction specifically relates to environmental protection through water quality management.