The CBP has established a unique approach to developing and  achieving water quality restoration goals. USGS studies show how  nutrients and sediment through the watershed; almost half of the nutrients move slowly through the ground water.  This phenomenon  causes a lag between the time some nutrient reduction practices are implemented and the time when improvements in water  quality become apparent. The CBP used the findings to accelerate sewage treatment plant improvements and to better target agricultural practices to reduce nitrogen.  Partners are also using USGS data to target restoration activities to the specific locations  where they will be most effective.