The report was submitted to Congress by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in accordance with the direction of the Joint House of Representatives - Senate conference Committee for amendments to the Federal Water Pollution Control Act. The study involved reviews of Federal, State, local and industry specification and bidding practices, analysis of substantial input from interested parties, review of ongoing EPA studies, discussion of the issues with the EPA Management Advisory Group (MAG), and the participation in joint meetings with groups representing consulting engineers, contractors and equipment suppliers. Based on the review and analysis of the comments and proposals offered regarding bid shopping, equipment listing and prequalification of major items of equipment, EPA recommended against any Federal direction in the form of legislation or regulation changes in this area. (Portions of this document are not fully legible)