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Abstract: Although the Clean Water Act and subsequent TMDL rules stop short of requiring implementation of TMDL plans, implementation is clearly the implied intent of the legislation in order to achieve our water quality improvement goals. Some states, such as Virginia, have passed additional legislation that explicitly requires implementation within all watersheds where EPA-approved TMDLs have been developed. This past year, in compliance with Virginias mandate, the authors have facilitated the development of implementation plans in three sets of TMDL watersheds in Virginia - Opequon Creek, Big Otter River, and Stroubles Creek. This paper details lessons learned throughout the public participation process outlined as organization and education aspects and including use of focus groups, the importance of good facilitation, the use of existing watershed groups, using maps as a focusing tool, the need and the role of education for all planners and stakeholder participants, and considerations on moving from planning to implementation.