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

Supporting Information

Regional Board 6 - Lahontan Region

Water Body Name: Buckeye Creek
Water Body ID: CAR6304002220011130114903
Water Body Type: River & Stream
 
DECISION ID
10102
 
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 Buckeye Creek, at 7.9 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 the Listing Policy are not met..
 
SWRCB Board Decision / Staff Recommendation:
 
USEPA Decision:
 
 
Lines of Evidence (LOEs) for Decision ID 10102
 
LOE ID: 21355
 
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 (conventional plus toxic pollutants)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: The U.S. Geological Survey sampled Buckeye Creek under the Region 6 SWAMP program. Acid neutralizing capacity for a single sample collected on March 11, 2003 was 7.9 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, Buckeye Creek above Campground, was sampled.
Temporal Representation: One sample was collected on March 11, 2003.
Environmental Conditions: Buckeye Creek is a tributary of Bridgeport Reservoir in East Walker River watershed, with headwaters near the Sierra Nevada crest .The campground is located upstream of the USGS gage and Buckeye Hot Spring. In addition to the Cold Freshwater Habitat beneficial use, Buckeye Creek is also designated for the Spawning, Reproduction and Development use and the Rare, Threatened or Endangered Species use. The latter designation recognizes habitat for the Lahontan Cutthroat trout
QAPP Information: The data meet the quality assurance requirements of the SWAMP QAPP.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
DECISION ID
7752
 
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 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 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 7752
 
LOE ID: 5881
 
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 (conventional plus toxic pollutants)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: The U.S.Geological Survey took quarterly ammonia samples under the Region 6 SWAMP program in 2002 and 2003. Ammonia concentrations in four samples were below the deteciton level. The objective was not exceeded.
Data Reference: 2007. SWAMP Data for the West Walker River and East Walker River Hydrologic Units.
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Under the reported temperature and pH conditions, the applicable ammonia toxicity objectives from Lahontan Basin Plan Table 3-1 are as follows. The 1- hour average objective for unionized ammonia ranges from 0.0129 to 0.130 mg/L NH3. The 1-hour average objective for total ammonia ranges from 7.1 to 33 mg/L.
Objective/Criterion Reference: 2007. Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended).
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: One station, Buckeye Creek above Campground, was sampled.
Temporal Representation: Four quarterly samples were collected between 2002 and 2003.
Environmental Conditions: Buckeye Creek is a tributary of Bridgeport Reservoir in East Walker River watershed, with headwaters near the Sierra Nevada crest .The campground is located upstream of the USGS gage and Buckeye Hot Spring. In addition to the Cold Freshwater Habitat beneficial use, Buckeye Creek is also designated for the Spawning, Reproduction and Development use and the Rare, Threatened or Endangered Species use. The latter designation recognizes habitat for the Lahontan Cutthroat trout
QAPP Information: The data meet the quality assurance requirements of the SWAMP QAPP.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
DECISION ID
10110
 
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. There are no biological data available for assessment whether the chemical samples comply 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. There are no biological data available to assess compliance with the applicable objective and 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 there are no biological data available for assessment of compliance with the applicable water quality objective.
 
SWRCB Board Decision / Staff Recommendation:
 
USEPA Decision:
 
 
Lines of Evidence (LOEs) for Decision ID 10110
 
LOE ID: 21356
 
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 (conventional plus toxic pollutants)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: The U.S. Geological Survey sampled Buckeye Creek under the Region 6 SWAMP program in 2002 and 2003. Four samples for dissolved Kjeldahl nitrogen 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: The Lahontan Basin Plan's regionwide 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, Buckeye Creek above Campground, was sampled.
Temporal Representation: Four quarterly samples were collected between 2002 and 2003.
Environmental Conditions: Buckeye Creek is a tributary of Bridgeport Reservoir in East Walker River watershed, with headwaters near the Sierra Nevada crest .The campground is located upstream of the USGS gage and Buckeye Hot Spring. In addition to the Cold Freshwater Habitat beneficial use, Buckeye Creek is also designated for the Spawning, Reproduction and Development use and the Rare, Threatened or Endangered Species use. The latter designation recognizes habitat for the Lahontan Cutthroat trout
QAPP Information: The data meet the quality assurance requirements of the SWAMP QAPP.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
DECISION ID
10117
 
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 10117
 
LOE ID: 21358
 
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 (conventional plus toxic pollutants)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: The U.S. Geological Survey sampled Buckeye Creek under the Region 6 SWAMP program in 2002 and 2003. Concentrations of nitrite plus nitrate in two of four samples were below the detection level and a third sample was an estimated value. The concentration in the fourth sample was 0.16 mg/L. The MCL was not violated.
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 nitrite plus nitrate 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, Buckeye Creek above Campground, was sampled.
Temporal Representation: Four samples were collected between 2002 and 2003.
Environmental Conditions: Buckeye Creek is a tributary of Bridgeport Reservoir in East Walker River watershed, with headwaters near the Sierra Nevada crest .The campground is located upstream of the USGS gage and Buckeye Hot Spring. In addition to the Cold Freshwater Habitat beneficial use, Buckeye Creek is also designated for the Spawning, Reproduction and Development use and the Rare, Threatened or Endangered Species use. The latter designation recognizes habitat for the Lahontan Cutthroat trout
QAPP Information: The data meet the quality assurance requirements of the SWAMP QAPP.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
DECISION ID
7750
 
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 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 and Table 3.2 of the Policy.
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.
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 7750
 
LOE ID: 4938
 
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 (conventional plus toxic pollutants)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: The U.S. Geological Survey sampled dissolved oxygen under the Region 6 SWAMP program. Two dissolved oxygen samples each had a concentration of 9.2 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 objective is 8 mg/L (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, Buckeye Creek above Campground, was sampled.
Temporal Representation: Two samples were collected, one in 2002 and one in 2003.
Environmental Conditions: Buckeye Creek is a tributary of Bridgeport Reservoir in East Walker River watershed, with headwaters near the Sierra Nevada crest .The campground is located upstream of the USGS gage and Buckeye Hot Spring. In addition to the Cold Freshwater Habitat beneficial use, Buckeye Creek is also designated for the Spawning, Reproduction and Development use and the Rare, Threatened or Endangered Species use. The latter designation recognizes habitat for the Lahontan Cutthroat trout
QAPP Information: The data meet the quality assurance requirements of the SWAMP QAPP.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
DECISION ID
7751
 
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. There are no biological data available for assessment whether the chemical samples exceed the water quality objective for biostimulatory substance..

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. There are no biological data available for asessment of compliance with the applicable objective and 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 there are no biological data available for assessment of compliance iwth the objective.
 
SWRCB Board Decision / Staff Recommendation:
 
USEPA Decision:
 
 
Lines of Evidence (LOEs) for Decision ID 7751
 
LOE ID: 5879
 
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 (conventional plus toxic pollutants)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: The U.S. Geological Survey sampled phosphate as P under the Region 6 SWAMP program in 2002 and 2003. Three of four samples were below the detection level and the fourth was an estimated value. No data on algae or macrophytes were available to allow assessment of compliance with the objective for biostimulatory substances.
Data Reference: 2007. SWAMP Data for the West Walker River and East Walker River Hydrologic Units.
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Lahontan Basin Plan does not include a site-specific objective (SSO) for phosphate applicable to Buckeye Creek. (A separate line of evidence has been prepared to assess compliance with the SSO for Total Phosphorus.) The Basin Plan's regionwide 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, Buckeye Creek above Campground, was sampled.
Temporal Representation: Four quarterly samples were collected between 2002 and 2003.
Environmental Conditions: Buckeye Creek is a tributary of Bridgeport Reservoir in East Walker River watershed, with headwaters near the Sierra Nevada crest .The campground is located upstream of the USGS gage and Buckeye Hot Spring. In addition to the Cold Freshwater Habitat beneficial use, Buckeye Creek is also designated for the Spawning, Reproduction and Development use and the Rare, Threatened or Endangered Species use. The latter designation recognizes habitat for the Lahontan Cutthroat trout
QAPP Information: The data meet the quality assurance requirements of the SWAMP QAPP.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
DECISION ID
7735
 
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 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 variability expected in streamflows and constituent concentrations in streams of the Lahontan Region.
3. Two annual average datapoints based on a fotal of four samples collected over one year did not exceed 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 7735
 
LOE ID: 4939
 
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 (conventional plus toxic pollutants)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: The U.S. Geological Survey sampled phosphorus under the Region 6 SWAMP program in 2002 and 2003. Total phosphorus concentrations in four samples ranged from 0.006 to 0.023 mg/L. Annual average values did not exceed the objective.
Data Reference: 2007. SWAMP Data for the West Walker River and East Walker River Hydrologic Units.
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The applicable objective for Total Phosphorus (in Lahontan Basin Plan Table 3-15 for Bridgeport Valley tributaries) includes an annual average Total P concentration of 0.02 mg/L and a 90th percentile value of 0.03 mg/L.
Objective/Criterion Reference: 2007. Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended).
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: One station, Buckeye Creek above Campground, was sampled.
Temporal Representation: Four quarterly samples were collected between 2002 and 2003.
Environmental Conditions: Buckeye Creek is a tributary of Bridgeport Reservoir in East Walker River watershed, with headwaters near the Sierra Nevada crest .The campground is located upstream of the USGS gage and Buckeye Hot Spring. In addition to the Cold Freshwater Habitat beneficial use, Buckeye Creek is also designated for the Spawning, Reproduction and Development use and the Rare, Threatened or Endangered Species use. The latter designation recognizes habitat for the Lahontan Cutthroat trout
QAPP Information: The data meet the quality assurance requirements of the SWAMP QAPP.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
DECISION ID
7784
 
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: This pollutant is being considered for placement on the section 303(d) list under section 3.10 of the Listing Policy.

One line of evidence is available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. The narrative sediment objective in the Lahontan Basin Plan is antidegradation based. Documentation of an increasing trend in the suspended sediment regime would require establishment of baseline conditions and at least three years of data. The four samples collected over two years are insufficient to establish background conditions.

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 four available samples do not satisfy the 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. The four available samples are insufficient to establish background suspended sediment levels or to allow detection of trends under the requirements of Listing Policy Section 3.10.
.
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 insufficient to establish baseline and trend conditions as required under Listing Policy section 3.10.
 
SWRCB Board Decision / Staff Recommendation:
 
USEPA Decision:
 
 
Lines of Evidence (LOEs) for Decision ID 7784
 
LOE ID: 4942
 
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 suspended sediment under the Region 6 SWAMP program. Suspended sediment concentrations in four samples ranged from 1 to 31 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 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, Buckeye Creek above Campground, was sampled.
Temporal Representation: Four samples were collected between 2002 and 2003.
Environmental Conditions: Buckeye Creek is a tributary of Bridgeport Reservoir in East Walker River watershed, with headwaters near the Sierra Nevada crest .The campground is located upstream of the USGS gage and Buckeye Hot Spring. In addition to the Cold Freshwater Habitat beneficial use, Buckeye Creek is also designated for the Spawning, Reproduction and Development use and the Rare, Threatened or Endangered Species use. The latter designation recognizes habitat for the Lahontan Cutthroat trout
QAPP Information: The data meet the quality assurance requirements of the SWAMP QAPP.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
DECISION ID
7604
 
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 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 3.2 of the Listing Policy. However, the minimum sample number requirements of Table 3.2 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 available data do not meet the minimum sample number requirement of Listing Policy Table 3.2
 
SWRCB Board Decision / Staff Recommendation:
 
USEPA Decision:
 
 
Lines of Evidence (LOEs) for Decision ID 7604
 
LOE ID: 4941
 
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 (conventional plus toxic pollutants)
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 specific conductance measurements ranged from 24 to 89 uS/cm. A duplicate field measurement taken on 3/11/03 was the same as the first measurement for that date (81 uS/cm). The MCL was not violated.
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, Buckeye Creek above Campground, was sampled.
Temporal Representation: Four samples were collected between 2002 and 2003.
Environmental Conditions: Buckeye Creek is a tributary of Bridgeport Reservoir in East Walker River watershed, with headwaters near the Sierra Nevada crest .The campground is located upstream of the USGS gage and Buckeye Hot Spring. In addition to the Cold Freshwater Habitat beneficial use, Buckeye Creek is also designated for the Spawning, Reproduction and Development use and the Rare, Threatened or Endangered Species use. The latter designation recognizes habitat for the Lahontan Cutthroat trout
QAPP Information: The data meet the quality assurance requirements of the SWAMP QAPP.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
DECISION ID
7734
 
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 7734
 
LOE ID: 4943
 
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 (conventional plus toxic pollutants)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: The U.S.Geological Survey sampled temperature under the Region 6 SWAMP program. Four temperature measurements ranged from 4 to 10.5 degrees Celsius. The small sample numbers are inadequate to define the natural range of temperature (including diel, seasonal and annual varations) or to detect whether changes have occurred.
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, Buckeye Creek above Campground, was sampled.
Temporal Representation: Four samples were collected between 2002 and 2003 Too few samples are available to define the natural range of temperature (including diel, seasonal and annual varations) or to detect whether changes have occurred.
Environmental Conditions: Buckeye Creek is a tributary of Bridgeport Reservoir in East Walker River watershed, with headwaters near the Sierra Nevada crest .The campground is located upstream of the USGS gage and Buckeye Hot Spring. In addition to the Cold Freshwater Habitat beneficial use, Buckeye Creek is also designated for the Spawning, Reproduction and Development use and the Rare, Threatened or Endangered Species use. The latter designation recognizes habitat for the Lahontan Cutthroat trout
QAPP Information: The data meet the quality assurance requirements of the SWAMP QAPP.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
DECISION ID
10118
 
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.

Onr line of evidence is available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. There are no biological data available to assess whether any of the chemical samples exceeds 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. There are no biological data available for assessment of compliance with the objective and 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 applicable water quality objective.
 
SWRCB Board Decision / Staff Recommendation:
 
USEPA Decision:
 
 
Lines of Evidence (LOEs) for Decision ID 10118
 
LOE ID: 21357
 
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 (conventional plus toxic pollutants)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: The U.S. Geological Survey sampled Buckeye Creek under the Region 6 SWAMP program in 2002 and 2003. Concentrations of total Kjeldahl nitrogen in three of four samples were estimates, and the fourth sample was below the detection level.
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 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, Buckeye Creek above Campground, was sampled.
Temporal Representation: Four quarterly samples were collected between 2002 and 2003.
Environmental Conditions: Buckeye Creek is a tributary of Bridgeport Reservoir in East Walker River watershed, with headwaters near the Sierra Nevada crest .The campground is located upstream of the USGS gage and Buckeye Hot Spring. In addition to the Cold Freshwater Habitat beneficial use, Buckeye Creek is also designated for the Spawning, Reproduction and Development use and the Rare, Threatened or Endangered Species use. The latter designation recognizes habitat for the Lahontan Cutthroat trout
QAPP Information: The data meet the quality assurance requirements of the SWAMP QAPP.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
DECISION ID
10120
 
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 seasonal and annual variability expected in streamflows and turbidity levels 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 minimum sample number requirements of Listing Policy Table 3.2 and the requirements of section 3.10 of the policy are not met.
 
SWRCB Board Decision / Staff Recommendation:
 
USEPA Decision:
 
 
Lines of Evidence (LOEs) for Decision ID 10120
 
LOE ID: 4945
 
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 (conventional plus toxic pollutants)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: The U.S. Geological Survey sampled turbidity under the Region 6 SWAMP program. Turbidity in four quarterly samples ranged from 1.3 to 3.3 NTU. Sample numbers are too small to determine the natural range of variation in turbidity, to detect changes, or to assess impacts on beneficial uses.
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 objective for turbidity 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, Buckeye Creek above Campground, was sampled.
Temporal Representation: Four samples were collected between 2002 and 2003. Sample numbers are too small to determine the natural range of variation in turbidity, to detect changes, or to assess impacts on beneficial uses.
Environmental Conditions: Buckeye Creek is a tributary of Bridgeport Reservoir in East Walker River watershed, with headwaters near the Sierra Nevada crest .The campground is located upstream of the USGS gage and Buckeye Hot Spring. In addition to the Cold Freshwater Habitat beneficial use, Buckeye Creek is also designated for the Spawning, Reproduction and Development use and the Rare, Threatened or Endangered Species use. The latter designation recognizes habitat for the Lahontan Cutthroat trout
QAPP Information: The data meet the quality assurance requirements of the SWAMP QAPP.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
LOE ID: 4946
 
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 (conventional plus toxic pollutants)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: The U.S. Geological Survey sampled turbidity under the Region 6 SWAMP program. Turbidity in four quarterly samples ranged from 1.3 to 3.3 NTU. 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 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, Buckeye Creek above Campground, was sampled.
Temporal Representation: Four quarterly samples were collected between 2002 and 2003.
Environmental Conditions: Buckeye Creek is a tributary of Bridgeport Reservoir in East Walker River watershed, with headwaters near the Sierra Nevada crest .The campground is located upstream of the USGS gage and Buckeye Hot Spring. In addition to the Cold Freshwater Habitat beneficial use, Buckeye Creek is also designated for the Spawning, Reproduction and Development use and the Rare, Threatened or Endangered Species use. The latter designation recognizes habitat for the Lahontan Cutthroat trout
QAPP Information: The data meet the quality assurance requirements of the SWAMP QAPP.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
DECISION ID
10121
 
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: One line of evidence is available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. For waters designated for the COLD or WARM beneficial uses, the Lahontan Basin Plan's narrative pH 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 seasonal and annual variability expected in streamflows and pH in streams of the Lahontan Region.
3. It is not possible to determine whether the narrative pH 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 are insufficient to determine baseline and trend conditions as required under section 3.10 of the Listing Policy..
 
SWRCB Board Decision / Staff Recommendation:
 
USEPA Decision:
 
 
Lines of Evidence (LOEs) for Decision ID 10121
 
LOE ID: 4940
 
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 (conventional plus toxic pollutants)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: The U.S. Geological Survey measured pH under the Region 6 SWAMP program in 2002 and 2003. One of four samples had a pH less than 6.5 units (5.3 units). Because the 6.5 to 8.5 unit limits apply only to waters not designated for the COLD or WARM uses, this should not be considered a violation of 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 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, Buckeye Creek above Campground, was sampled.
Temporal Representation: Four samples were collected between 2002 and 2003.
Environmental Conditions: Buckeye Creek is a tributary of Bridgeport Reservoir in East Walker River watershed, with headwaters near the Sierra Nevada crest .The campground is located upstream of the USGS gage and Buckeye Hot Spring. In addition to the Cold Freshwater Habitat beneficial use, Buckeye Creek is also designated for the Spawning, Reproduction and Development use and the Rare, Threatened or Endangered Species use. The latter designation recognizes habitat for the Lahontan Cutthroat trout
QAPP Information: The data meet the quality assurance requirements of the SWAMP QAPP.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
DECISION ID
6479
 
Pollutant: Pathogens
Final Listing Decision: List on 303(d) list (being addressed by action other than TMDL)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)(2006)
Revision Status Revised
Sources: Grazing-Related Sources | Natural Sources | Pasture Grazing-Riparian and/or Upland | Range Grazing-Riparian and/or Upland | Recreational and Tourism Activities (non-boating)
Expected Attainment Date: 2027
Date TMDL Approved by USEPA: This listing is being addressed through Lahontan RWQCB Resolution R6T-2007-0019, Waiver of Waste Discharge Requirements for Grazing Operations in the East Walker River Watershed (Bridgeport Valley and Tributaries) of the Lahontan Region. Nonpoint source management measures for grazing operations are to be implemented under Ranch Water Quality Management Plans. The waiver includes a time schedule, milestones and a monitoring and reporting program. An interim target, a 30-day average log-normalized fecal coliform concentration of no more than 200 fecal coliform colonies per 100 mL, is expected to be attained within the five year lifetime of the waiver. The water quality objective is expected to be attained through continued implementation and improvement of management practices. The waiver is subject to renewal.
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Weight of Evidence: This pollutant is being considered for removal from the section 303(d) list under section 2.2 of the Listing Policy. Under 2.2 of the Policy, a minimum of one line of evidence is needed to assess listing status.

Two lines of evidence are available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant.

Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is sufficient justification against removing this water segment-pollutant combination from the section 303(d) list. There is sufficient justification to place it in the Being Addressed portion of the 303(d) list because a regulatory action other than a TMDL (a conditional waiver of waste discharge requirements) is expected to result in attainment of the standard. The waiver was adopted by the Lahontan RWQCB on June 13, 2007 and is now being implemented.

.
 
RWQCB Board Decision / Staff Recommendation: After review of the available data and information, RWQCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should be placed the Being Addressed portion of the section 303(d) list because the RWQCB has determined that an existing program is reasonably expected to result in the attainment of the water quality standard in a reasonably specified time frame.
 
SWRCB Board Decision / Staff Recommendation: N/A
 
USEPA Decision:
 
 
Lines of Evidence (LOEs) for Decision ID 6479
 
LOE ID: 27587
 
Pollutant: Fecal Coliform
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Water Contact Recreation
 
Number of Samples: 24
Number of Exceedances: 11
 
Data and Information Type: Water column surveys (e.g. fecal coliform)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Buckeye Creek was placed on the Section 303(d) list in 2002 as a result of sampling in 2000 and 2001 by the U.S. Geological Survey. At least 5 of 10 monthly fecal coliform samples from the Highway 395 station, and at least 6 of 14 samples at the Bridgeport Reservoir station exceeded the 40 colonies per 100 mL limit. Fecal coliform counts at the two stations ranged from 1 to 1600 colonies per 100 mL. Some of the sampling results were reported with a "K" code indicating that the bacteria count was outside of the acceptable range or ideal count of 20-60 colonies per plate. These USGS data were part of the longer study referenced as Rockwell and Honeywell.
Data Reference: Administrative Record of Lahontan RWQCB's 2001-2002 Section 303(d) List Update Process Resolution R6T-2002-0002
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Lahontan Basin Plan's regionwide Water Quality 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: Two stations, Buckeye Creek at Highway 395, and Buckeye Creek at Bridgeport Reservoir, were sampled.
Temporal Representation: Buckeye Creek was sampled monthly between April 2000 and June 2001.
Environmental Conditions: Buckeye Creek is a tributary of Bridgeport Reservoir in the East Walker River watershed. Its lower reach crosses private land used for irrigated pasture.
QAPP Information: The study was done using USGS quality assurance procedures..
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
LOE ID: 4594
 
Pollutant: Pathogens
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Not Recorded
 
Beneficial Use: Water Contact Recreation
 
Number of Samples: 0
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: Not Specified
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Unspecified--This LOE is a placeholder to support a 303(d) listing decision made prior to 2006.
Data Reference: Placeholder reference pre-2006 303(d)
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Unspecified
Objective/Criterion Reference: Placeholder reference pre-2006 303(d)
 
Evaluation Guideline: Unspecified
Guideline Reference: Placeholder reference pre-2006 303(d)
 
Spatial Representation: Unspecified
Temporal Representation: Unspecified
Environmental Conditions: Unspecified
QAPP Information: Unspecified
QAPP Information Reference(s):