(1) The purpose of this subchapter is to prohibit degradation of high quality state waters, except in certain limited circumstances, by implementing the nondegradation policy set forth in 75-5-303 , MCA, and providing criteria and procedures for:

(a) determining which activities will degrade high quality waters;

(b) department review and decision making;

(c) determining the required water quality protection practices if degradation is authorized; and

(d) public review and appeal of department decisions.