Draft 2008 California 303(d)/305(b) Integrated Report

Supporting Information

Regional Board 6 - Lahontan Region

Water Body Name:	Green Creek
Water Body ID:	CAR6303005019980804111241
Water Body Type:	River & Stream


DECISION ID	9937

Pollutant:	Acid Neutralizing Capacity
Final Listing Decision:	Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision:	New Decision
Revision Status	Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution:	Pollutant

Weight of Evidence:	This pollutant is being considered for placement on the section 303(d) list under section 3.2 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.2 a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status. One line of evidence is available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. Acid Neutralizing Capacity (ANC) is equivalent to alkalinity, and the USEPA "Gold Book" criterion for alkalinity states that it should be greater than 20 mg/L CaCO3 unless natural alkalinity is lower. Only one ANC sample is available for Green Creek, at 8.1 mg/L CaCO3.. There is insufficient information to determine the natural range of ANC. Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is sufficient justification against placing this water segment-pollutant combination on the section 303(d) list in the Water Quality Limited Segments category. This conclusion is based on the staff findings that: 1. The data used satisfy the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy. 2. The data used do not satisfy the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy. 3. It is not possible to determine whether the single sample exceeds the criterion. The minimum sample number requirements of Table 3.2 of the Listing Policy are not met. 4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.

RWQCB Board Decision / Staff Recommendation:	After review of the available data and information, RWQCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should not be placed on the section 303(d) list because the minimum sample number requirements of Listing Policy Table 3.2 are not met..

SWRCB Board Decision / Staff Recommendation:

USEPA Decision:

Lines of Evidence (LOEs) for Decision ID 9937


LOE ID:	21336

Pollutant:	Acid Neutralizing Capacity
LOE Subgroup:	Pollutant-Water
Matrix:	Water
Fraction:	None

Beneficial Use:	Cold Freshwater Habitat

Number of Samples:	1
Number of Exceedances:	0

Data and Information Type:	Fixed station physical/chemical monitoring (conventional pollutants only)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality:	The U.S. Geological Survey sampled Green Creek under the Region 6 SWAMP program. ANC was measured in one sample collected on March 10, 2003. The value was 8.1 mg/L CaCO3.
Data Reference:	2007. SWAMP Data for the West Walker River and East Walker River Hydrologic Units.

Water Quality Objective/Criterion:	There are no California or federal standards or criteria for acid neutralizing capacity (ANC) per se. However, ANC is equivalent to alkalinity, and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency "Gold Book" recommends alkalinity greater than 20 mg/L CaCO3 unless natural alkalinity is lower.
Objective/Criterion Reference:	2007. Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended).
	Quality Criteria for Water 1986. United States Environmental Protection Agency. Office of Water. Regulations and Standards. Washington D.C. EPA 440/5-86-001.

Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:

Spatial Representation:	One station, "Green Creek above Campground" was sampled.
Temporal Representation:	One sample was collected on March 10, 2003.
Environmental Conditions:	Green Creek is a tributary of the East Walker River with headwaters near the Sierra Nevada crest. The campground is located at an elevation of about 8200 feet, downstream of Green Lake and outside of the Hoover Wilderness boundary. In addition to the Cold Freshwater Habitat beneficial use, Green Creek is designated for the Spawning, Reproduction and Development use.
QAPP Information:	Data meet the quality assurance requirements of the SWAMP QAPP.
QAPP Information Reference(s):


DECISION ID	7755

Pollutant:	Ammonia
Final Listing Decision:	Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision:	New Decision
Revision Status	Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution:	Pollutant

Weight of Evidence:	This pollutant is being considered for placement on the section 303(d) list under section 3.1 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.1 a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status. One line of evidence is available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. None of the samples exceed the water quality objective. Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is sufficient justification against placing this water segment-pollutant combination on the section 303(d) list in the Water Quality Limited Segments category. This conclusion is based on the staff findings that: 1. The data used satisfy the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy. 2. The data used do not satisfy the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy. Quarterly samples do not capture the seasonal and annual variability expected in streamflows and constituent concentrations in streams of the Lahontan Region. 3. None of four samples exceeded the water quality objective and this does not exceed the allowable frequency listed in Table 3.1 of the Listing Policy. 4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.

RWQCB Board Decision / Staff Recommendation:	After review of the available data and information, RWQCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should not be placed on the section 303(d) list because applicable water quality standards are not being exceeded.

SWRCB Board Decision / Staff Recommendation:

USEPA Decision:

Lines of Evidence (LOEs) for Decision ID 7755


LOE ID:	5918

Pollutant:	Ammonia
LOE Subgroup:	Pollutant-Water
Matrix:	Water
Fraction:	Not Recorded

Beneficial Use:	Cold Freshwater Habitat

Number of Samples:	4
Number of Exceedances:	0

Data and Information Type:	Fixed station physical/chemical monitoring (conventional pollutants only)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality:	The U.S. Geological Survey sampled Green Creek quarterly under the Region 6 SWAMP program in 2002 and 2003. Four samples for ammonia were all below the detection level. Per Listing Policy Section 6.1.5.5, the objective is presumed to be attained.
Data Reference:	2007. SWAMP Data for the West Walker River and East Walker River Hydrologic Units.

Water Quality Objective/Criterion:	At the pH and temperature conditions measured on the four sampling dates, the applicable water quality objectives (1-hour average limits) for unionized ammonia (from Lahontan Basin Plan Table 3-1) range from 0.023 to 0.091 mg/L NH3. The applicable 1-hour average limits for total ammonia range from 15.5 to 33 mg/L NH3.
Objective/Criterion Reference:	2007. Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended).

Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:

Spatial Representation:	One station, "Green Creek above Campground" was sampled.
Temporal Representation:	Four quarterly samples were taken in 2002 and 2003.
Environmental Conditions:	Green Creek is a tributary of the East Walker River with headwaters near the Sierra Nevada crest. The campground is located at an elevation of about 8200 feet, downstream of Green Lake and outside of the Hoover Wilderness boundary. In addition to the Cold Freshwater Habitat beneficial use, Green Creek is designated for the Spawning, Reproduction and Development use.
QAPP Information:	Data meet the quality assurance requirements of the SWAMP QAPP.
QAPP Information Reference(s):


DECISION ID	9938

Pollutant:	Dissolved Kjeldahl Nitrogen
Final Listing Decision:	Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision:	New Decision
Revision Status	Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution:	Pollutant

Weight of Evidence:	This pollutant is being considered for placement on the section 303(d) list under section 3.1 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.1 a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status. One line of evidence is available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. All of the samples are below the detection level, and no biological data are available for assessment of compliance with the water quality objective for biostimulatory substances. . Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is sufficient justification against placing this water segment-pollutant combination on the section 303(d) list in the Water Quality Limited Segments category. This conclusion is based on the staff findings that: 1. The data used satisfy the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy. 2. The data used do not satisfy the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy. Quarterly samples do not capture the seasonal and annual variability expected in streamflows and constituent concentrations in streams of the Lahontan Region. 3. All of the sample are below the detection level. No biological data are available for use in determining compliance with the water quality objective. The data cannot be assessed using Table 3.1 of the Listing Policy. 4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.

RWQCB Board Decision / Staff Recommendation:	After review of the available data and information, RWQCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should not be placed on the section 303(d) list because no biological data are available for assessment of compliance with the objective.

SWRCB Board Decision / Staff Recommendation:

USEPA Decision:

Lines of Evidence (LOEs) for Decision ID 9938


LOE ID:	21333

Pollutant:	Dissolved Kjeldahl Nitrogen
LOE Subgroup:	Pollutant-Water
Matrix:	Water
Fraction:	Dissolved

Beneficial Use:	Cold Freshwater Habitat

Number of Samples:	4
Number of Exceedances:	0

Data and Information Type:	Fixed station physical/chemical monitoring (conventional pollutants only)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality:	The U.S. Geological Survey sampled this station under the Region 6 SWAMP program in 2002 and 2003. Concentrations of DKN in four quarterly samples were all below the detection level..
Data Reference:	2007. SWAMP Data for the West Walker River and East Walker River Hydrologic Units.

Water Quality Objective/Criterion:	There is no site-specific water quality objective (SSO) for dissolved Kjeldahl nitrogen (DKN) applicable to Green Creek. A separate line of evidence has been prepared to assess compliance with the Lahontan Basin Plan's SSO for total nitrogen. The Basin Plan's water quality objective for biostimulatory substances states:"Waters shall not contain biostimulatory substances in concentrations that promote aquatic growths to the extent that such growths cause nuisance or adversely affect the water for beneficial uses."
Objective/Criterion Reference:	2007. Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended).

Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:

Spatial Representation:	One station, "Green Creek above Campground" was sampled.
Temporal Representation:	Four quarterly samples were taken in 2002 and 2003.
Environmental Conditions:	Green Creek is a tributary of the East Walker River with headwaters near the Sierra Nevada crest. The campground is located at an elevation of about 8200 feet, downstream of Green Lake and outside of the Hoover Wilderness boundary. In addition to the Cold Freshwater Habitat beneficial use, Green Creek is designated for the Spawning, Reproduction and Development use.
QAPP Information:	Data meet the quality assurance requirements of the SWAMP QAPP.
QAPP Information Reference(s):


DECISION ID	7597

Pollutant:	Fecal Coliform
Final Listing Decision:	Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision:	New Decision
Revision Status	Revised
Sources:	Source Unknown
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution:	Pollutant

Weight of Evidence:	This pollutant is being considered for placement on the section 303(d) list under section 3.3 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.3 a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status. Two lines of evidence are available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. The single sample did not exceed the water quality objective. Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is sufficient justification against placing this water segment-pollutant combination on the section 303(d) list in the Water Quality Limited Segments category. This conclusion is based on the staff findings that: 1. The data used satisfy the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy. 2. The data used do not satisfy the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy. (Only one sample is available.) 3. The single sample did not exceed the water quality objective and this does not exceed the allowable frequency listed in Table 3.2 of the Listing Policy. However, the minimum sample number requirements of the table are not met. 4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.

RWQCB Board Decision / Staff Recommendation:	After review of the available data and information, RWQCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should not be placed on the section 303(d) list because the minimum sample number requirements of the Listing Policy are not met..

SWRCB Board Decision / Staff Recommendation:

USEPA Decision:

Lines of Evidence (LOEs) for Decision ID 7597


LOE ID:	5701

Pollutant:	Fecal Coliform
LOE Subgroup:	Pollutant-Water
Matrix:	Water
Fraction:	None

Beneficial Use:	Water Contact Recreation

Number of Samples:	1
Number of Exceedances:	0

Data and Information Type:	Water column surveys (e.g. fecal coliform)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality:	The U.S.Geological Survey sampled Green Creek four times in 2002 and 2003 under the Region 6 SWAMP program. Only one fecal coliform bacteria sample was collected, and its value was less than one colony per 100 mL (below detection level). Per listing policy Section 6.1.5.5, the objective is presumed to be attained.
Data Reference:	2007. SWAMP Data for the West Walker River and East Walker River Hydrologic Units.

Water Quality Objective/Criterion:	The Lahontan Basin Plan's objective for coliform bacteria states: "Waters shall not contain concentrations of coliform organisms attributable to anthropogenic sources, including human and livestock wastes. The fecal coliform concentration during any 30-day period shall not exceed a log mean of 20/100 ml, nor shall more than 10 percent of all samples collected during any 30-day period exceed 40/100 ml. The log mean shall ideally be based on a minimum of not less than five samples collected as evenly spaced as practicable during any 30-day period. However, a log mean concentration exceeding 20/100 ml for any 30-day period shall indicate violation of this objective even if fewer than five samples were collected."
Objective/Criterion Reference:	2007. Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended).

Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:

Spatial Representation:	One station, "Green Creek above Campground" was sampled.
Temporal Representation:	One sample was collected in June 2002.
Environmental Conditions:	Green Creek is a tributary of the East Walker River with headwaters near the Sierra Nevada crest. The campground is located at an elevation of about 8200 feet, downstream of Green Lake and outside of the Hoover Wilderness boundary. In addition to the Cold Freshwater Habitat beneficial use, Green Creek is designated for the Spawning, Reproduction and Development use.
QAPP Information:	Data meet the quality assurance requirements of the SWAMP QAPP.
QAPP Information Reference(s):


LOE ID:	5700

Pollutant:	Fecal Coliform
LOE Subgroup:	Pollutant-Water
Matrix:	Water
Fraction:	None

Beneficial Use:	Municipal & Domestic Supply

Number of Samples:	1
Number of Exceedances:	0

Data and Information Type:	Water column surveys (e.g. fecal coliform)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality:	The U.S.Geological Survey sampled Green Creek four times in 2002 and 2003 under the Region 6 SWAMP program. Only one fecal coliform bacteria sample was collected, and its value was less than one colony per 100 mL (below detection level). Per listing policy Section 6.1.5.5, the objective is presumed to be attained.
Data Reference:	2007. SWAMP Data for the West Walker River and East Walker River Hydrologic Units.

Water Quality Objective/Criterion:	The Lahontan Basin Plan's objective for coliform bacteria states: "Waters shall not contain concentrations of coliform organisms attributable to anthropogenic sources, including human and livestock wastes. The fecal coliform concentration during any 30-day period shall not exceed a log mean of 20/100 ml, nor shall more than 10 percent of all samples collected during any 30-day period exceed 40/100 ml. The log mean shall ideally be based on a minimum of not less than five samples collected as evenly spaced as practicable during any 30-day period. However, a log mean concentration exceeding 20/100 ml for any 30-day period shall indicate violation of this objective even if fewer than five samples were collected." .
Objective/Criterion Reference:	2007. Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended).

Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:

Spatial Representation:	One station, "Green Creek above Campground" was sampled.
Temporal Representation:	One sample was collected in June 2002.
Environmental Conditions:	Green Creek is a tributary of the East Walker River with headwaters near the Sierra Nevada crest. The campground is located at an elevation of about 8200 feet, downstream of Green Lake and outside of the Hoover Wilderness boundary. In addition to the Cold Freshwater Habitat beneficial use, Green Creek is designated for the Spawning, Reproduction and Development use.
QAPP Information:	Data meet the quality assurance requirements of the SWAMP QAPP.
QAPP Information Reference(s):


DECISION ID	9939

Pollutant:	Nitrate/Nitrite (Nitrite + Nitrate as N)
Final Listing Decision:	Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision:	New Decision
Revision Status	Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution:	Pollutant

Weight of Evidence:	This pollutant is being considered for placement on the section 303(d) list under section 3.1 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.1 a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status. One line of evidence is available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. None of the samples exceeds the California Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL). Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is sufficient justification against placing this water segment-pollutant combination on the section 303(d) list in the Water Quality Limited Segments category. This conclusion is based on the staff findings that: 1. The data used satisfy the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy. 2. The data used do not satisfy the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy. Quarterly samples do not capture the seasonal and annual variability expected in streamflows and constituent concentrations in streams of the Lahontan Region. 3. None of 4 samples exceeded the MCL and this does not exceed the allowable frequency listed in Table 3.1 of the Listing Policy. 4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.

RWQCB Board Decision / Staff Recommendation:	After review of the available data and information, RWQCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should not be placed on the section 303(d) list because applicable water quality standards are not being exceeded.

SWRCB Board Decision / Staff Recommendation:

USEPA Decision:

Lines of Evidence (LOEs) for Decision ID 9939


LOE ID:	21335

Pollutant:	Nitrate/Nitrite (Nitrite + Nitrate as N)
LOE Subgroup:	Pollutant-Water
Matrix:	Water
Fraction:	Dissolved

Beneficial Use:	Municipal & Domestic Supply

Number of Samples:	4
Number of Exceedances:	0

Data and Information Type:	Fixed station physical/chemical monitoring (conventional pollutants only)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality:	The U.S. Geological Survey sampled Green Creek under the Region 6 SWAMP program in 2002 and 2003. One of four samples for nitrite plus nitrate was below the detection level. Concentrations in the remaining samples ranged from 0.022 to 0.038 mg/L. The MCL was not exceeded.
Data Reference:	2007. SWAMP Data for the West Walker River and East Walker River Hydrologic Units.

Water Quality Objective/Criterion:	California Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs) apply to ambient waters under the Lahontan Basin Plan's "Chemical Constituents" objective. The MCL for nitrate plus nitrite is 10 mg/L.
Objective/Criterion Reference:	2007. Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended).

Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:

Spatial Representation:	One station, "Green Creek above Campground" was sampled.
Temporal Representation:	Four quarterly samples were collected in 2002 and 2003.
Environmental Conditions:	Green Creek is a tributary of the East Walker River with headwaters near the Sierra Nevada crest. The campground is located at an elevation of about 8200 feet, downstream of Green Lake and outside of the Hoover Wilderness boundary. In addition to the Cold Freshwater Habitat beneficial use, Green Creek is designated for the Spawning, Reproduction and Development use.
QAPP Information:	Data meet the quality assurance requirements of the SWAMP QAPP.
QAPP Information Reference(s):


DECISION ID	7754

Pollutant:	Oxygen, Dissolved
Final Listing Decision:	Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision:	New Decision
Revision Status	Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution:	Pollutant

Weight of Evidence:	This pollutant is being considered for placement on the section 303(d) list under section 3.2 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.2 a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status. One line of evidence is available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. None of the samples exceeds the water quality objective. Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is sufficient justification against placing this water segment-pollutant combination on the section 303(d) list in the Water Quality Limited Segments category. This conclusion is based on the staff findings that: 1. The data used satisfy the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy. 2. The data used do not satisfy the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy. Quarterly samples do not capture the diel, seasonal and annual variability expected in streamflows and dissolved oxygen concentrations in streams of the Lahontan Region. 3. None of two samples exceeded the water quality objective and this does not exceed the allowable frequency listed in Table 3.2 of the Listing Policy. However, the minimum sample number requirements of the table were not met. 4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.

RWQCB Board Decision / Staff Recommendation:	After review of the available data and information, RWQCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should not be placed on the section 303(d) list because the minimum sample number requirements of the listing policy are not met..

SWRCB Board Decision / Staff Recommendation:

USEPA Decision:

Lines of Evidence (LOEs) for Decision ID 7754


LOE ID:	4962

Pollutant:	Oxygen, Dissolved
LOE Subgroup:	Pollutant-Water
Matrix:	Water
Fraction:	Dissolved

Beneficial Use:	Cold Freshwater Habitat

Number of Samples:	2
Number of Exceedances:	0

Data and Information Type:	Fixed station physical/chemical monitoring (conventional pollutants only)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality:	The U.S. Geological Survey sampled dissolved oxygen under the Region 6 SWAMP program in 2002 and 2003. Dissolved oxygen concentrations in two samples were 9.2 and 9.3 mg/L.
Data Reference:	2007. SWAMP Data for the West Walker River and East Walker River Hydrologic Units.

Water Quality Objective/Criterion:	For waters designated COLD and SPWN, the 1 day minimum concentration objective is 8 mg/L (Lahontan Basin Plan Table 3-6)
Objective/Criterion Reference:	2007. Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended).

Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:

Spatial Representation:	One station, "Green Creek above Campground" was sampled.
Temporal Representation:	Two dissolved oxygen measurements were taken in 2002 and 2003.
Environmental Conditions:	Green Creek is a tributary of the East Walker River with headwaters near the Sierra Nevada crest. The campground is located at an elevation of about 8200 feet, downstream of Green Lake and outside of the Hoover Wilderness boundary. In addition to the Cold Freshwater Habitat beneficial use, Green Creek is designated for the Spawning, Reproduction and Development use.
QAPP Information:	Data meet the quality assurance requirements of the SWAMP QAPP.
QAPP Information Reference(s):


DECISION ID	7776

Pollutant:	Phosphate
Final Listing Decision:	Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision:	New Decision
Revision Status	Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution:	Pollutant

Weight of Evidence:	This pollutant is being considered for placement on the section 303(d) list under section 3.1 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.1 a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status. One line of evidence is available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. None of the samples exceed the water quality objective. Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is sufficient justification against placing this water segment-pollutant combination on the section 303(d) list in the Water Quality Limited Segments category. This conclusion is based on the staff findings that: 1. The data used satisfy the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy. 2. The data used do not satisfy the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy. Quarterly samples do not capture the seasonal and annual variability expected in streamflows and constituent concentrations in streams of the Lahontan Region. 3. None of four samples exceeded the water quality objective and this does not exceed the allowable frequency listed in Table 3.1 of the Listing Policy. 4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.

RWQCB Board Decision / Staff Recommendation:	After review of the available data and information, RWQCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should not be placed on the section 303(d) list because applicable water quality standards are not being exceeded.

SWRCB Board Decision / Staff Recommendation:

USEPA Decision:

Lines of Evidence (LOEs) for Decision ID 7776


LOE ID:	5919

Pollutant:	Phosphate
LOE Subgroup:	Pollutant-Water
Matrix:	Water
Fraction:	Dissolved

Beneficial Use:	Cold Freshwater Habitat

Number of Samples:	4
Number of Exceedances:	0

Data and Information Type:	Fixed station physical/chemical monitoring (conventional pollutants only)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality:	The U.S. Geological Survey sampled phosphorus under the Region 6 SWAMP program in 2002 and 2003. Four quarterly phosphate samples were all below the detection level. Per Listing Policy Section 6.1.5.5, the objective is presumed to be attained.
Data Reference:	2007. SWAMP Data for the West Walker River and East Walker River Hydrologic Units.

Water Quality Objective/Criterion:	There is no site-specific water quality objective (SSO) for phosphate applicable to Green Creek. A separate line of evidence has been prepared to assess compliance with the Lahontan Basin Plan's SSO for total phosphorus. The Basin Plan's water quality objective for biostimulatory substances states:"Waters shall not contain biostimulatory substances in concentrations that promote aquatic growths to the extent that such growths cause nuisance or adversely affect the water for beneficial uses."
Objective/Criterion Reference:	2007. Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended).

Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:

Spatial Representation:	One station, "Green Creek above Campground" was sampled.
Temporal Representation:	Four quarterly samples were taken in 2002 and 2003.
Environmental Conditions:	Green Creek is a tributary of the East Walker River with headwaters near the Sierra Nevada crest. The campground is located at an elevation of about 8200 feet, downstream of Green Lake and outside of the Hoover Wilderness boundary. In addition to the Cold Freshwater Habitat beneficial use, Green Creek is designated for the Spawning, Reproduction and Development use.
QAPP Information:	Data meet the quality assurance requirements of the SWAMP QAPP.
QAPP Information Reference(s):


DECISION ID	7777

Pollutant:	Phosphorus
Final Listing Decision:	Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision:	New Decision
Revision Status	Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution:	Pollutant

Weight of Evidence:	This pollutant is being considered for placement on the section 303(d) list under section 3.1 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.1 a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status. One line of evidence is available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. Neither of the two annual average datapoints (based on two samples each) exceeds the water quality objective. Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is sufficient justification against placing this water segment-pollutant combination on the section 303(d) list in the Water Quality Limited Segments category. This conclusion is based on the staff findings that: 1. The data used satisfy the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy. 2. The data used do not satisfy the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy. Quarterly samples do not capture the seasonal and annual variabilty expected in streamflows and constituent concentrations in streams of the Lahontan Region. 3. Neither of two annual average datapoints exceeded the water quality objective and this does not exceed the allowable frequency listed in Table 3.1 of the Listing Policy. 4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.

RWQCB Board Decision / Staff Recommendation:	After review of the available data and information, RWQCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should not be placed on the section 303(d) list because applicable water quality standards are not being exceeded.

SWRCB Board Decision / Staff Recommendation:

USEPA Decision:

Lines of Evidence (LOEs) for Decision ID 7777


LOE ID:	4948

Pollutant:	Phosphorus
LOE Subgroup:	Pollutant-Water
Matrix:	Water
Fraction:	Total

Beneficial Use:	Cold Freshwater Habitat

Number of Samples:	2
Number of Exceedances:	0

Data and Information Type:	Fixed station physical/chemical monitoring (conventional pollutants only)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality:	The U.S. Geological Survey sampled phosphorus under the Region 6 SWAMP program in 2002 and 2003. Of four total phosphorus samples, one was an estimate and one below the detection level. The other two values were 0.004 and 0.006 mg/L. "Annual average" values did not exceedthe objective.
Data Reference:	2007. SWAMP Data for the West Walker River and East Walker River Hydrologic Units.

Water Quality Objective/Criterion:	The site-specific objective for total phosphorus in streams tributary to the East Walker River in Bridgeport Valley includes an annual average of 0.02 mg/L and a 90th percentile value of 0.03 mg/L (Lahontan Basin Plan Table 3-15)
Objective/Criterion Reference:	2007. Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended).

Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:

Spatial Representation:	One station, "Green Creek above Campground" was sampled.
Temporal Representation:	Four quarterly samples were taken in 2002 and 2003.
Environmental Conditions:	Green Creek is a tributary of the East Walker River with headwaters near the Sierra Nevada crest. The campground is located at an elevation of about 8200 feet, downstream of Green Lake and outside of the Hoover Wilderness boundary. In addition to the Cold Freshwater Habitat beneficial use, Green Creek is designated for the Spawning, Reproduction and Development use.
QAPP Information:	Data meet the quality assurance requirements of the SWAMP QAPP.
QAPP Information Reference(s):


DECISION ID	7790

Pollutant:	Sediment
Final Listing Decision:	Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision:	New Decision
Revision Status	Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution:	Pollutant

Weight of Evidence:	The Lahontan Basin Plan's narrative water quality objective is an antidegradation based objective that provides that there shall be no increases in suspended sediment concentrations or loads. This pollutant is being considered for placement on the section 303(d) list under section 3.10 of the Listing Policy, which deals with trends in water quality. One line of evidence, based on quarterly sampling, is available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. It includes only four samples of susspended sediment concentration. Suspended sediment concentrations and loads are dependent on flows and can change rapidly over a short time during storm or snowmelt runoff events. Quarterly samples are insufficient to capture these short term events and therefore are insufficient to define natural background suspended sediment concentrations and loads, or to detect trends. Listing Policy Section 3.10 requires that natural background conditions be established. Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is sufficient justification against placing this water segment-pollutant combination on the section 303(d) list in the Water Quality Limited Segments category. This conclusion is based on the staff findings that: 1. The data used satisfy the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy. 2. Sampling frequency was insufficient to establish natural background conditions and therefore does not meet the requirements of Listing Policy Section 3.10. 3. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.

RWQCB Board Decision / Staff Recommendation:	After review of the available data and information, RWQCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should not be placed on the section 303(d) list because the requirements of Listing Policy section 3.10 are not met.

SWRCB Board Decision / Staff Recommendation:

USEPA Decision:

Lines of Evidence (LOEs) for Decision ID 7790


LOE ID:	6146

Pollutant:	Sediment
LOE Subgroup:	Pollutant-Water
Matrix:	Water
Fraction:	None

Beneficial Use:	Cold Freshwater Habitat

Number of Samples:	4
Number of Exceedances:	0

Data and Information Type:	Fixed station physical/chemical (conventional plus toxic pollutants)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality:	The U.S. Geological Survey sampled Green Creek quarterly under the Region 6 SWAMP program between June 2002 and June 2003. Suspended sediment concentrations in four samples ranged from 1 to 4 mg/L.
Data Reference:	2007. SWAMP Data for the West Walker River and East Walker River Hydrologic Units.

Water Quality Objective/Criterion:	The Lahontan Basin Plan's narrative objective states: "The suspended sediment load and suspended sediment discharge rate of surface waters shall not be altered in such a manner as to cause nuisance or adversely affect the water for beneficial uses."
Objective/Criterion Reference:	2007. Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended).

Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:

Spatial Representation:	One station, "Green Creek above Campground" was sampled.
Temporal Representation:	Four quarterly suspended sediment samples were taken in 2002 and 2003.
Environmental Conditions:	Green Creek is a tributary of the East Walker River with headwaters near the Sierra Nevada crest. The campground is located at an elevation of about 8200 feet, downstream of Green Lake and outside of the Hoover Wilderness boundary. In addition to the Cold Freshwater Habitat beneficial use, Green Creek is designated for the Spawning, Reproduction and Development use.
QAPP Information:	Data meet the quality assurance requirements of the SWAMP QAPP.
QAPP Information Reference(s):


DECISION ID	7596

Pollutant:	Specific Conductance
Final Listing Decision:	Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision:	New Decision
Revision Status	Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution:	Pollutant

Weight of Evidence:	This pollutant is being considered for placement on the section 303(d) list under section 3.2 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.2 a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status. One line(s) of evidence is available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. None of the samples exceed the water quality objective. Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is sufficient justification against placing this water segment-pollutant combination on the section 303(d) list in the Water Quality Limited Segments category. This conclusion is based on the staff findings that: 1. The data used satisfy the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy. 2. The data used do not satisfy the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy. Quarterly samples do not capture the seasonal and annual variability expected in streamflows and constituent concentrations in streams of the Lahontan Region. 3. None of five samples exceeded the water quality objective and this does not exceed the allowable frequency listed in Table 3.2 of the Listing Policy. However, the minimum sample number requirements of the table are not met. 4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.

RWQCB Board Decision / Staff Recommendation:	After review of the available data and information, RWQCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should not be placed on the section 303(d) list because the minimum sample number requirements of the Listing Policy are not met.

SWRCB Board Decision / Staff Recommendation:

USEPA Decision:

Lines of Evidence (LOEs) for Decision ID 7596


LOE ID:	4953

Pollutant:	Specific Conductance
LOE Subgroup:	Pollutant-Water
Matrix:	Water
Fraction:	None

Beneficial Use:	Municipal & Domestic Supply

Number of Samples:	4
Number of Exceedances:	0

Data and Information Type:	Fixed station physical/chemical monitoring (conventional pollutants only)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality:	The U.S. Geological Survey measured specific conductance under the Region 6 SWAMP program in 2002 and 2003. Four field measurements of specific conductance ranged from 39 to 63 uS/cm. One laboratory measurement was 65 uS/cm. The MCL was not exceeded.
Data Reference:	2007. SWAMP Data for the West Walker River and East Walker River Hydrologic Units.

Water Quality Objective/Criterion:	California Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs) apply to ambient waters under the Lahontan Basin Plan's "Chemical Constituents" objective. The MCL for specific conductance is 900 microsiemens per centimeter (uS/cm).
Objective/Criterion Reference:	2007. Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended).

Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:

Spatial Representation:	One station, "Green Creek above Campground" was sampled.
Temporal Representation:	Four quarterly field measurements of specific conductance and one laboratory measurement were taken in 2002 and 2003.
Environmental Conditions:	Green Creek is a tributary of the East Walker River with headwaters near the Sierra Nevada crest. The campground is located at an elevation of about 8200 feet, downstream of Green Lake and outside of the Hoover Wilderness boundary. In addition to the Cold Freshwater Habitat beneficial use, Green Creek is designated for the Spawning, Reproduction and Development use.
QAPP Information:	Data meet the quality assurance requirements of the SWAMP QAPP.
QAPP Information Reference(s):


DECISION ID	7753

Pollutant:	Temperature, water
Final Listing Decision:	Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision:	New Decision
Revision Status	Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution:	Pollutant

Weight of Evidence:	The Lahontan Basin Plan's narrative temperature objective is an antidegradation-based objective that requires that there be no change in temperature in waters designated for the Cold Freshwater Habitat (COLD) beneficial use. The objective does not include specific numerical limits for protection of the COLD use. Listing Policy Section 3.10 contains directions for assessment based on trends in water quality. These directions include requirements to establish specific baseline conditions and specify the influence of seasonal and interannual effects. One line of evidence is available to support this decision. There are not enough temperature samples to establish baseline conditions (including diel, seasonal, annual and interannual variations in temperature) or to detect declining trends in the temperature regime if such trends exist. Because temperature samples were collected only quarterly, weekly and monthly average data are not available for comparison with guidelines in the scientific literature for the temperature requirements of sensitive aquatic species such as salmonids, as directed in Listing Policy Section 6.1.5.9.

RWQCB Board Decision / Staff Recommendation:	After review of the available data and information, RWQCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should not be placed on the section 303(d) list because available data are insufficient for assessment under Listing Policy Table 3-2 and Sections 3.10 and 6.1.5.9.

SWRCB Board Decision / Staff Recommendation:

USEPA Decision:

Lines of Evidence (LOEs) for Decision ID 7753


LOE ID:	4947

Pollutant:	Temperature, water
LOE Subgroup:	Pollutant-Water
Matrix:	Water
Fraction:	None

Beneficial Use:	Cold Freshwater Habitat

Number of Samples:	4
Number of Exceedances:	0

Data and Information Type:	Fixed station physical/chemical monitoring (conventional pollutants only)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality:	The U.S.Geological Survey measured temperature in 2002 and 2003 under the Region 6 SWAMP program. Four temperature measurements ranged from 3 to 13 degrees Celsius.
Data Reference:	2007. SWAMP Data for the West Walker River and East Walker River Hydrologic Units.

Water Quality Objective/Criterion:	The temperature objective in the Lahontan Basin Plan states: "The natural receiving water temperature of all waters shall not be altered unless it can be demonstrated to the satisfaction of the Regional Board that such an alteration in temperature does not adversely affect the water for beneficial uses. For waters designated WARM, water temperature shall not be altered by more than five degrees Fahrenheit ... above or below the natural temperature. For waters designated COLD, the temperature shall not be altered. Temperature objectives for COLD interstate waters and WARM interstate waters are as specified in the 'Water Quality Control Plan for Control of Temperature in The Coastal and Interstate Waters and Enclosed Bays and Estuaries of California' including any revisions."
Objective/Criterion Reference:	2007. Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended).

Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:

Spatial Representation:	One station, "Green Creek above Campground" was sampled.
Temporal Representation:	Four quarterly samples were taken in 2002 and 2003. .
Environmental Conditions:	Green Creek is a tributary of the East Walker River with headwaters near the Sierra Nevada crest. The campground is located at an elevation of about 8200 feet, downstream of Green Lake and outside of the Hoover Wilderness boundary. In addition to the Cold Freshwater Habitat beneficial use, Green Creek is designated for the Spawning, Reproduction and Development use.
QAPP Information:	Data meet the quality assurance requirements of the SWAMP QAPP.
QAPP Information Reference(s):


DECISION ID	9940

Pollutant:	Total Kjeldahl Nitrogen (TKN)
Final Listing Decision:	Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision:	New Decision
Revision Status	Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution:	Pollutant

Weight of Evidence:	This pollutant is being considered for placement on the section 303(d) list under section 3.1 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.1 a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status. One line of evidence is available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. All of the samples are estimated value. No biological data are available for assessment of compliance with the water quality objective for biostimulatory substances. Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is sufficient justification against placing this water segment-pollutant combination on the section 303(d) list in the Water Quality Limited Segments category. This conclusion is based on the staff findings that: 1. The data used satisfy the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy. 2. The data used do not satisfy the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy. Quarterly samples do not capture the seasonal and annual variability expected in streamflows and constituent concentrations in streams of the Lahontan Region. 3. All four samples were estimated values. No biological data are available to assess compliance with the objective for biostimulatory substances. The chemical data cannot be assessed using Table 3.1 of the Listing Policy. 4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.

RWQCB Board Decision / Staff Recommendation:	After review of the available data and information, RWQCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should not be placed on the section 303(d) list because no biological data are available for assessment of compliance with the objective.

SWRCB Board Decision / Staff Recommendation:

USEPA Decision:

Lines of Evidence (LOEs) for Decision ID 9940


LOE ID:	21332

Pollutant:	Total Kjeldahl Nitrogen (TKN)
LOE Subgroup:	Pollutant-Water
Matrix:	Water
Fraction:	Total

Beneficial Use:	Cold Freshwater Habitat

Number of Samples:	4
Number of Exceedances:	0

Data and Information Type:	Fixed station physical/chemical monitoring (conventional pollutants only)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality:	The U.S. Geological Survey sampled this station under the Region 6 SWAMP program in 2002 and 2003. Concentrations of TKN in four quarterly samples were all estimated values.
Data Reference:	2007. SWAMP Data for the West Walker River and East Walker River Hydrologic Units.

Water Quality Objective/Criterion:	There is no site-specific water quality objective (SSO) for total Kjeldahl nitrogen (TKN) applicable to Green Creek. A separate line of evidence has been prepared to assess compliance with the Lahontan Basin Plan's SSO for total nitrogen. The Basin Plan's water quality objective for biostimulatory substances states: "Waters shall not contain biostimulatory substances in concentrations that promote aquatic growths to the extent that such growths cause nuisance or adversely affect the water for beneficial uses."
Objective/Criterion Reference:	2007. Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended).

Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:

Spatial Representation:	One station, "Green Creek above Campground" was sampled.
Temporal Representation:	Four quarterly samples were taken in 2002 and 2003.
Environmental Conditions:	Green Creek is a tributary of the East Walker River with headwaters near the Sierra Nevada crest. The campground is located at an elevation of about 8200 feet, downstream of Green Lake and outside of the Hoover Wilderness boundary. In addition to the Cold Freshwater Habitat beneficial use, Green Creek is designated for the Spawning, Reproduction and Development use.
QAPP Information:	Data meet the quality assurance requirements of the SWAMP QAPP.
QAPP Information Reference(s):


DECISION ID	9941

Pollutant:	Total Nitrogen as N
Final Listing Decision:	Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision:	New Decision
Revision Status	Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution:	Pollutant

Weight of Evidence:	This pollutant is being considered for placement on the section 303(d) list under section 3.1 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.1 a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status. One line of evidence is available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. All four of the samples are estimated values, and it cannot be determined whether the annual averages (based on only two samples per year) exceed the site specific water quality objective. Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is sufficient justification against placing this water segment-pollutant combination on the section 303(d) list in the Water Quality Limited Segments category. This conclusion is based on the staff findings that: 1. The data used satisfy the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy. 2. The data used do not satisfy the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy. Quarterly samples do not capture the seasonal and annual variability expected in streamflows and constituent concentrations in streams of the Lahontan Region. 3. All four samples, and the two annual average datapoints, are estimated values. Compliance with the objective cannot be determined using Table 3.1 of the Listing Policy. 4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.

RWQCB Board Decision / Staff Recommendation:	After review of the available data and information, RWQCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should not be placed on the section 303(d) list because the data are estimated values and cannot be used to determine compliance with the site-specific water quality objective..

SWRCB Board Decision / Staff Recommendation:

USEPA Decision:

Lines of Evidence (LOEs) for Decision ID 9941


LOE ID:	21337

Pollutant:	Total Nitrogen as N
LOE Subgroup:	Pollutant-Water
Matrix:	Water
Fraction:	Total

Beneficial Use:	Cold Freshwater Habitat

Number of Samples:	2
Number of Exceedances:	0

Data and Information Type:	Fixed station physical/chemical monitoring (conventional pollutants only)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality:	The U.S. Geological Survey sampled Green Creek under the Region 6 SWAMP program in 2002 and 2003. Four samples each were taken for total Kjeldahl nitrogen (TKN) and nitrite plus nitrate. However, all of the TKN concentrations are estimates. Nitrite plus nitrate concentrations ranged from below the detection level to 0.038 mg/L. All calculated total nitrogen concentrations are estimates, and compliance with the annual average objective cannot be evaluated.
Data Reference:	2007. SWAMP Data for the West Walker River and East Walker River Hydrologic Units.

Water Quality Objective/Criterion:	The site-specific objective for total nitrogen in streams tributary to the East Walker River in Bridgeport Valley includes an annual average of 0.05 mg/L and a 90th percentile value of 0.10 mg/L (Lahontan Basin Plan Table 3-15)
Objective/Criterion Reference:	2007. Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended).

Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:

Spatial Representation:	One station, "Green Creek above Campground" was sampled.
Temporal Representation:	Four quarterly samples each for TKN and nitrite plus nitrate were taken in 2002 and 2003.
Environmental Conditions:	Green Creek is a tributary of the East Walker River with headwaters near the Sierra Nevada crest. The campground is located at an elevation of about 8200 feet, downstream of Green Lake and outside of the Hoover Wilderness boundary. In addition to the Cold Freshwater Habitat beneficial use, Green Creek is designated for the Spawning, Reproduction and Development use.
QAPP Information:	Data meet the quality assurance requirements of the SWAMP QAPP.
QAPP Information Reference(s):


DECISION ID	7598

Pollutant:	Turbidity
Final Listing Decision:	Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision:	New Decision
Revision Status	Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution:	Pollutant

Weight of Evidence:	This pollutant is being considered for placement on the section 303(d) list under section 3.2 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.2 a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status. Two lines of evidence are available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. None of the samples exceeds the California Maximum Contaminant Level. The Lahontan Basin Plan's narrative turbidity objective is a non-degradation objective, and sample numbers are insufficient to establish baseline conditions or detect trends as required under Listing Policy Section 3.10. Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is sufficient justification against placing this water segment-pollutant combination on the section 303(d) list in the Water Quality Limited Segments category. This conclusion is based on the staff findings that: 1. The data used satisfy the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy. 2. The data used do not satisfy the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy. Quarterly samples do not capture the diel, seasonal and annual variability expected in streamflows and turbidity values in streams of the Lahontan Region. 3. None of 4 samples exceeded the Maximum Contaminant Level and this does not exceed the allowable frequency listed in Table 3.2 of the Listing Policy.However, the minimum sample number requirements of Table 3.2 are not met. It is not possible to determine whether the narrative turbidity objective was exceeded because the requirements of Listing Policy Section 3.10 were not met. 4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.

RWQCB Board Decision / Staff Recommendation:	After review of the available data and information, RWQCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should not be placed on the section 303(d) list because the data quantity requirements of Listing Policy Table 3.2 and the requirements of Listing Policy section 3.10 are not met..

SWRCB Board Decision / Staff Recommendation:

USEPA Decision:

Lines of Evidence (LOEs) for Decision ID 7598


LOE ID:	4961

Pollutant:	Turbidity
LOE Subgroup:	Pollutant-Water
Matrix:	Water
Fraction:	None

Beneficial Use:	Municipal & Domestic Supply

Number of Samples:	4
Number of Exceedances:	0

Data and Information Type:	Fixed station physical/chemical monitoring (conventional pollutants only)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality:	The U.S.Geological Survey measured turbidity in 2002 and 2003 under the Region 6 SWAMP program. Four turbidity measurements ranged from 0.5 to 1.1 units. The MCL was not exceeded.
Data Reference:	2007. SWAMP Data for the West Walker River and East Walker River Hydrologic Units.

Water Quality Objective/Criterion:	California Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs) apply to ambient waters under the Lahontan Basin Plan's "Chemical Constituents" objective. The MCL for turbidity is 5 NTU.
Objective/Criterion Reference:	2007. Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended).

Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:

Spatial Representation:	One station, "Green Creek above Campground" was sampled.
Temporal Representation:	Four quarterly turbidity measurements were taken in 2002 and 2003.
Environmental Conditions:	Green Creek is a tributary of the East Walker River with headwaters near the Sierra Nevada crest. The campground is located at an elevation of about 8200 feet, downstream of Green Lake and outside of the Hoover Wilderness boundary. In addition to the Cold Freshwater Habitat beneficial use, Green Creek is designated for the Spawning, Reproduction and Development use.
QAPP Information:	Data meet the quality assurance requirements of the SWAMP QAPP.
QAPP Information Reference(s):


LOE ID:	4955

Pollutant:	Turbidity
LOE Subgroup:	Pollutant-Water
Matrix:	Water
Fraction:	None

Beneficial Use:	Cold Freshwater Habitat

Number of Samples:	4
Number of Exceedances:	0

Data and Information Type:	Fixed station physical/chemical monitoring (conventional pollutants only)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality:	The U.S. Geological Survey measured turbidity under the Region 6 SWAMP program in 2002 and 2003. Four turbidity measurements ranged from 0.5 to 1.1 units.
Data Reference:	2007. SWAMP Data for the West Walker River and East Walker River Hydrologic Units.

Water Quality Objective/Criterion:	The Lahontan Basin Plan's regionwide turbidity objective states: "Waters shall be free of changes in turbidity that cause nuisance or adversely affect the water for beneficial uses. Increases in turbidity shall not exceed natural levels by more than 10 percent."
Objective/Criterion Reference:	2007. Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended).

Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:

Spatial Representation:	One station, "Green Creek above Campground" was sampled.
Temporal Representation:	Four quarterly field measurements of turbidity were taken in 2002 and 2003.
Environmental Conditions:	Green Creek is a tributary of the East Walker River with headwaters near the Sierra Nevada crest. The campground is located at an elevation of about 8200 feet, downstream of Green Lake and outside of the Hoover Wilderness boundary. In addition to the Cold Freshwater Habitat beneficial use, Green Creek is designated for the Spawning, Reproduction and Development use.
QAPP Information:	Data meet the quality assurance requirements of the SWAMP QAPP.
QAPP Information Reference(s):


DECISION ID	9942

Pollutant:	pH
Final Listing Decision:	Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision:	New Decision
Revision Status	Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution:	Pollutant

Weight of Evidence:	The Lahontan Basin Plan's narrative pH objective is an antidegradation-based objective that requires that there be no change greater than 0.5 pH units in waters designated for the Cold Freshwater Habitat (COLD) or Warm Freshwater Habitat beneficial uses. Listing Policy Section 3.10 contains directions for assessment based on trends in water quality. These directions include requirements to establish specific baseline conditions and specify the influence of seasonal and interannual effects. There are not enough pH samples to establish baseline conditions (including diel, seasonal, annual and interannual variations) or to detect changes in the pH regime due to controllable factors, if such trends exist.

RWQCB Board Decision / Staff Recommendation:	After review of the available data and information, RWQCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should not be placed on the section 303(d) list because there are insufficient data to establish baseline and trend conditions under section 3.10 of the Listing Policy.

SWRCB Board Decision / Staff Recommendation:

USEPA Decision:

Lines of Evidence (LOEs) for Decision ID 9942


LOE ID:	4964

Pollutant:	pH
LOE Subgroup:	Pollutant-Water
Matrix:	Water
Fraction:	None

Beneficial Use:	Cold Freshwater Habitat

Number of Samples:	4
Number of Exceedances:	0

Data and Information Type:	Fixed station physical/chemical monitoring (conventional pollutants only)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality:	The U.S. Geological Survey sampled pH under the Region 6 SWAMP program in 2002 and 2003. Four pH measurements ranged from 5.7 to 7.7 units. One measurement was below the 6.5 minimum in the objective.
Data Reference:	2007. SWAMP Data for the West Walker River and East Walker River Hydrologic Units.

Water Quality Objective/Criterion:	The Lahontan Basin Plan's regionwide pH objective states: "In fresh waters with designated beneficial uses of COLD or WARM, changes in normal ambient pH levels shall not exceed 0.5 pH units. For all other waters of the region, the pH shall not be depressed below 6.5 nor raised above 8.5 units." The Regional Board recognizes that some waters of the Region may have natural pH levels outside of the 6.5 to 8.5 range. Compliance with the pH objective for these waters will be determined on a case-by-case basis.
Objective/Criterion Reference:	2007. Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended).

Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:

Spatial Representation:	One station, "Green Creek above Campground" was sampled.
Temporal Representation:	Four quarterly pH measurements were taken in 2002 and 2003.
Environmental Conditions:	Green Creek is a tributary of the East Walker River with headwaters near the Sierra Nevada crest. The campground is located at an elevation of about 8200 feet, downstream of Green Lake and outside of the Hoover Wilderness boundary. In addition to the Cold Freshwater Habitat beneficial use, Green Creek is designated for the Spawning, Reproduction and Development use.
QAPP Information:	Data meet the quality assurance requirements of the SWAMP QAPP.
QAPP Information Reference(s):


DECISION ID	5561

Pollutant:	Habitat alterations
Final Listing Decision:	Delist from 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision:	Delist from 303(d) list (TMDL required list)(2006)
Revision Status	Original
Reason for Delisting:	Flaws in original listing
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution:	Pollution

Weight of Evidence:	Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is sufficient justification in favor of removing this water segment-pollutant combination from the section 303(d) list in the Water Quality Limited Segments category. This conclusion is based on staff findings that the original listing basis is faulty due to the fact that the listing was not for a pollutant.

RWQCB Board Decision / Staff Recommendation:	This is a decision made by the State Water Resources Control Board and approved by the USEPA in 2006 . No new data were assessed by the Regional Board for 2008. The decision has not changed.

SWRCB Board Decision / Staff Recommendation:	After review of the available data and information, SWRCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should be removed from the section 303(d) list because applicable water quality standards for the pollutant are not exceeded.

USEPA Decision:

Lines of Evidence (LOEs) for Decision ID 5561


LOE ID:	2858

Pollutant:	Habitat alterations
LOE Subgroup:	Testimonial Evidence
Matrix:	Not Specified
Fraction:	None

Beneficial Use:	Cold Freshwater Habitat

Number of Samples:	0
Number of Exceedances:	0

Data and Information Type:	Not Specified
Data Used to Assess Water Quality:	The original basis for the listing of this water body is unknown. According the 2002 303(d) list, the creek is listed "due to impacts of hydromodification by Dynamo Pond facility", so it is unclear if the listing should have been for flow alterations instead of habitat alterations. The listing is not for a pollutant, and no pollutants have been identified related to this listing. Regional Board staff is not aware of evidence or data to indicate current water quality standards exceedances or beneficial use impacts related to this listing.
Data Reference:	Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)

Water Quality Objective/Criterion:
Objective/Criterion Reference:

Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:

Spatial Representation:
Temporal Representation:
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information:	QA Info Missing
QAPP Information Reference(s):