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

Supporting Information

Regional Board 4 - Los Angeles Region

Water Body Name: San Pedro Bay Near/Off Shore Zones
Water Body ID: CAB4051200019990921151740
Water Body Type: Bay & Harbor
 
DECISION ID
7290
 
Pollutant: Chromium (sediment)
Final Listing Decision: Delist from 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)(2006)
Revision Status Revised
Reason for Delisting: State determines water quality standard is being met
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Weight of Evidence: This pollutant is being considered for removal from the section 303(d) list under section 4.1 and 4.6 of the Listing Policy. Under this section a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status.

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

Line of Evidence (LOE) 4149, will not be considered in this decision because the LOE is a placeholder LOE and other data is available to assess the water-segment pollutant combination.

Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is sufficient justification for removing this water segment-pollutant combination from the section 303(d) list.

This conclusion is based on the staff findings that:
1. The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy.
2. The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy.
3. Zero of 53 surface sediment samples exceeded the effects range median for chromium in marine sediment and this meets the allowable frequency listed in Table 4.1 of the Listing Policy.
4. 14 of 53 surface sediment samples showed toxicity, however none were associated with elevated chromium levels and this meets the allowable frequency listed in Table 4.1 of the Listing Policy.
5. Pursuant to section 4.11 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 be removed from the section 303(d) list because applicable water quality standards for the pollutant are not being exceeded.
 
SWRCB Board Decision / Staff Recommendation:
 
USEPA Decision:
 
 
Lines of Evidence (LOEs) for Decision ID 7290
 
LOE ID: 4149
 
Pollutant: Chromium (sediment)
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Sediment
Matrix: Sediment
Fraction: Not Recorded
 
Beneficial Use: Marine Habitat
 
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):
 
LOE ID: 28515
 
Pollutant: Chromium (total)
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Sediment
Matrix: Sediment
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Marine Habitat
Aquatic Life Use: Preservation of Rare & Endangered Species
 
Number of Samples: 53
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: Toxicity testing of sediments
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Zero of 53 samples exceeded the effects range median for chromium in marine sediment.
Data Reference: Southern California Bight 2003 Regional Marine Monitoring Survey Data
  Contaminated Sediments Task Force Sediment Chemistry data for San Pedro Bay. 1999-2003.
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Basin Plan states that, "[s]urface waters shall not contain concentrations of chemical constituents in amounts that adversely affect any designated beneficial use."
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan Los Angeles Region R4 Basin Plan
  Basin Plan Amendments to the Water Quality Control Plan Los Angeles Region R4 Basin Plan as of 02/02/2009
 
Evaluation Guideline: Long et. al. lists a sediment effects range median of 370 ug/g dry weight for chromium.
Guideline Reference: Incidence of adverse biological effects within ranges of chemical concentrations in marine and estuary sediments. Environmental Management. 19, (1): 81-97
 
Spatial Representation: Several state sponsored studies were collecting sediment samples in San Pedro Bay near/off shore zones, including BPTCP 1992-94, BPTCP 1996-97; Bight 1998; Bight 2003.
Temporal Representation: Composite surface sediment samples were taken and analyzed during spring/summer/fall.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Data was collected in compliance with the sampling and monitoring procedures detailed in Bay Protection Toxics Clean Program, Bight 1998, and Bight 2003 Quality Assurance Manual.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Bay Protection and Toxic Cleanup Program QAPP. (BPTCP). Sacramento, CA: State Water Resources Control Board
  Southern California Bight 2003 Regional Marine Monitoring Survey (Bight 03) Quality Assurance Manual
  Southern California Bight 1998 Regional Marine Monitoring Survey (Bight 98) Quality Assurance Manual
 
LOE ID: 102
 
Pollutant: Sediment Toxicity
LOE Subgroup: Toxicity
Matrix: Sediment
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Marine Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 50
Number of Exceedances: 13
 
Data and Information Type: Toxicity testing of sediments
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Overall, thirteen of 50 samples were toxic. This total was created from several different sediment studies within San Pedro Bay. Eleven of 33 samples were toxic (BPTCP). Two of 14 samples were toxic (Bight, 1998). None of three samples were toxic (W-EMAP) (LARWQCB & CCC, 2004).
Data Reference: Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Los Angeles RWQCB Basin Plan: All waters should be maintained free of toxic substances in concentrations that are toxic to, or that produce detrimental physiological response in, human, plant, animal, or aquatic life.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)
 
Evaluation Guideline: Samples were considered toxic if (1) there was a significant difference in mean organism response between the sample and the control, and (2) the mean organism response in the test, as a percent of the control, was less than the threshold based on the 90th percentile minimum significant difference value.
Guideline Reference: Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)
 
Spatial Representation: Fifty sites were sampled throughout San Pedro Bay.
Temporal Representation: Samples were collected in 1992, 1994, 1996, 1998 and 1999.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Contaminated Sediment Task Force (2005) and references therein (BPTCP QAPP, Bight 98 QAPP, EMAP 1999 QAPP).
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
LOE ID: 28516
 
Pollutant: Sediment Toxicity
LOE Subgroup: Toxicity
Matrix: Sediment
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Marine Habitat
Aquatic Life Use: Preservation of Rare & Endangered Species
 
Number of Samples: 3
Number of Exceedances: 1
 
Data and Information Type: Toxicity testing of sediments
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: One of three sediment samples were deemed moderately toxic.
Data Reference: Southern California Bight 2003 Regional Marine Monitoring Survey Data
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Basin Plan states that, "[a]ll waters shall be maintained free of toxic substances in concentrations that are toxic to, or that produce detrimental physiological responses in human, plant, animal, or aquatic life."
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan Los Angeles Region R4 Basin Plan
  Basin Plan Amendments to the Water Quality Control Plan Los Angeles Region R4 Basin Plan as of 02/02/2009
 
Evaluation Guideline: Bay et. al. classifies sediment toxicity based on the following survival percentages: Non toxic if greater than or equal to 80% survival; moderately toxic if between 50 to 80% survival; and highly toxic if less than 50% survival.
Guideline Reference: Southern California Bight 1998 Regional Monitoring Program. Volume IV.
 
Spatial Representation: A total of three stations were monitored in the San Pedro Bay near/off shore zones which include the following stations:
4066 (Lat: 33.74137, Long: -118.11663),
4274 (Lat: 33.7282833333, Long: -118.157083333), and
4408 (Lat: 33.75495, Long: -118.163533333).
Temporal Representation: Composite surface sediment samples were taken on 07/21/2003 for station 4066, on 07/16/2003 and 08/07/2003 for stations 4098 and 4274.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Data was collected in compliance with the sampling and monitoring procedures detailed in Southern California Bight 2003 Regional Marine Monitoring Survey Quality Assurance Manual.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Southern California Bight 2003 Regional Marine Monitoring Survey (Bight 03) Quality Assurance Manual
 
DECISION ID
7291
 
Pollutant: Copper (sediment)
Final Listing Decision: Delist from 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)(2006)
Revision Status Revised
Reason for Delisting: State determines water quality standard is being met
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Weight of Evidence: This pollutant is being considered for removal from the section 303(d) list under section 4.1 and 4.6 of the Listing Policy. Under this section a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status.

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

Line of Evidence (LOE) 4150, will not be considered in this decision because the LOE is a placeholder LOE and other data is available to assess the water-segment pollutant combination.

Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is sufficient justification for removing this water segment-pollutant combination from the section 303(d) list.

This conclusion is based on the staff findings that:
1. The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy.
2. The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy.
3. Zero of 59 surface sediment samples exceeded the effects range median for copper in marine sediment and this meets the allowable frequency listed in Table 4.1 of the Listing Policy.
4. 14 of 53 surface sediment samples showed toxicity, however none were associated with elevated copper levels and this meets the allowable frequency listed in Table 4.1 of the Listing Policy.
5. Pursuant to section 4.11 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 be removed from the section 303(d) list because applicable water quality standards for the pollutant are not being exceeded.
 
SWRCB Board Decision / Staff Recommendation:
 
USEPA Decision:
 
 
Lines of Evidence (LOEs) for Decision ID 7291
 
LOE ID: 102
 
Pollutant: Sediment Toxicity
LOE Subgroup: Toxicity
Matrix: Sediment
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Marine Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 50
Number of Exceedances: 13
 
Data and Information Type: Toxicity testing of sediments
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Overall, thirteen of 50 samples were toxic. This total was created from several different sediment studies within San Pedro Bay. Eleven of 33 samples were toxic (BPTCP). Two of 14 samples were toxic (Bight, 1998). None of three samples were toxic (W-EMAP) (LARWQCB & CCC, 2004).
Data Reference: Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Los Angeles RWQCB Basin Plan: All waters should be maintained free of toxic substances in concentrations that are toxic to, or that produce detrimental physiological response in, human, plant, animal, or aquatic life.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)
 
Evaluation Guideline: Samples were considered toxic if (1) there was a significant difference in mean organism response between the sample and the control, and (2) the mean organism response in the test, as a percent of the control, was less than the threshold based on the 90th percentile minimum significant difference value.
Guideline Reference: Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)
 
Spatial Representation: Fifty sites were sampled throughout San Pedro Bay.
Temporal Representation: Samples were collected in 1992, 1994, 1996, 1998 and 1999.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Contaminated Sediment Task Force (2005) and references therein (BPTCP QAPP, Bight 98 QAPP, EMAP 1999 QAPP).
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
LOE ID: 4150
 
Pollutant: Copper (sediment)
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Sediment
Matrix: Sediment
Fraction: Not Recorded
 
Beneficial Use: Marine Habitat
 
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):
 
LOE ID: 28516
 
Pollutant: Sediment Toxicity
LOE Subgroup: Toxicity
Matrix: Sediment
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Marine Habitat
Aquatic Life Use: Preservation of Rare & Endangered Species
 
Number of Samples: 3
Number of Exceedances: 1
 
Data and Information Type: Toxicity testing of sediments
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: One of three sediment samples were deemed moderately toxic.
Data Reference: Southern California Bight 2003 Regional Marine Monitoring Survey Data
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Basin Plan states that, "[a]ll waters shall be maintained free of toxic substances in concentrations that are toxic to, or that produce detrimental physiological responses in human, plant, animal, or aquatic life."
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan Los Angeles Region R4 Basin Plan
  Basin Plan Amendments to the Water Quality Control Plan Los Angeles Region R4 Basin Plan as of 02/02/2009
 
Evaluation Guideline: Bay et. al. classifies sediment toxicity based on the following survival percentages: Non toxic if greater than or equal to 80% survival; moderately toxic if between 50 to 80% survival; and highly toxic if less than 50% survival.
Guideline Reference: Southern California Bight 1998 Regional Monitoring Program. Volume IV.
 
Spatial Representation: A total of three stations were monitored in the San Pedro Bay near/off shore zones which include the following stations:
4066 (Lat: 33.74137, Long: -118.11663),
4274 (Lat: 33.7282833333, Long: -118.157083333), and
4408 (Lat: 33.75495, Long: -118.163533333).
Temporal Representation: Composite surface sediment samples were taken on 07/21/2003 for station 4066, on 07/16/2003 and 08/07/2003 for stations 4098 and 4274.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Data was collected in compliance with the sampling and monitoring procedures detailed in Southern California Bight 2003 Regional Marine Monitoring Survey Quality Assurance Manual.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Southern California Bight 2003 Regional Marine Monitoring Survey (Bight 03) Quality Assurance Manual
 
LOE ID: 28529
 
Pollutant: Copper
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Sediment
Matrix: Sediment
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Marine Habitat
Aquatic Life Use: Preservation of Rare & Endangered Species
 
Number of Samples: 59
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: Toxicity testing of sediments
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Zero of 59 samples exceeded the effects range median for copper in marine sediment.
Data Reference: Southern California Bight 2003 Regional Marine Monitoring Survey Data
  Contaminated Sediments Task Force Sediment Chemistry data for San Pedro Bay. 1999-2003.
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Basin Plan states that, "[s]urface waters shall not contain concentrations of chemical constituents in amounts that adversely affect any designated beneficial use."
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan Los Angeles Region R4 Basin Plan
  Basin Plan Amendments to the Water Quality Control Plan Los Angeles Region R4 Basin Plan as of 02/02/2009
 
Evaluation Guideline: Long et. al. lists a sediment effects range median of 270 ug/g dry weight for copper.
Guideline Reference: Incidence of adverse biological effects within ranges of chemical concentrations in marine and estuary sediments. Environmental Management. 19, (1): 81-97
 
Spatial Representation: Several state sponsored studies were collecting sediment samples in San Pedro Bay near/off shore zones, including BPTCP 1992-94, BPTCP 1996-97; Bight 1998; Bight 2003.
Temporal Representation: Composite surface sediment samples were taken and analyzed during spring/summer/fall.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Data was collected in compliance with the sampling and monitoring procedures detailed in Bay Protection Toxics Clean Program, Bight 1998, and Bight 2003 Quality Assurance Manual.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Bay Protection and Toxic Cleanup Program QAPP. (BPTCP). Sacramento, CA: State Water Resources Control Board
  Southern California Bight 2003 Regional Marine Monitoring Survey (Bight 03) Quality Assurance Manual
  Southern California Bight 1998 Regional Marine Monitoring Survey (Bight 98) Quality Assurance Manual
 
DECISION ID
7292
 
Pollutant: PAHs (Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons) (sediment)
Final Listing Decision: Delist from 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)(2006)
Revision Status Revised
Reason for Delisting: State determines water quality standard is being met
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Weight of Evidence: This pollutant is being considered for removal from the section 303(d) list under section 4.1 and 4.6 of the Listing Policy. Under this section a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status.

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

Line of Evidence (LOE) 4151, will not be considered in this decision because the LOE is a placeholder LOE and other data is available to assess the water-segment pollutant combination.

Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is sufficient justification for removing this water segment-pollutant combination from the section 303(d) list.

This conclusion is based on the staff findings that:
1. The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy.
2. The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy.
3. Zero of 27 surface sediment samples exceeded the effects range medium for high molecular weight PAHs, probable effects level for low molecular weight PAHs, and the sediment quality guidelines for total PAHs in marine sediment and this meets the allowable frequency listed in Table 4.1 of the Listing Policy.
4. 14 of 53 surface sediment samples showed toxicity, however none were associated with elevated PAH levels and this meets the allowable frequency listed in Table 4.1 of the Listing Policy.
5. Pursuant to section 4.11 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 be removed from the section 303(d) list because applicable water quality standards for the pollutant are not being exceeded.
 
SWRCB Board Decision / Staff Recommendation:
 
USEPA Decision:
 
 
Lines of Evidence (LOEs) for Decision ID 7292
 
LOE ID: 102
 
Pollutant: Sediment Toxicity
LOE Subgroup: Toxicity
Matrix: Sediment
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Marine Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 50
Number of Exceedances: 13
 
Data and Information Type: Toxicity testing of sediments
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Overall, thirteen of 50 samples were toxic. This total was created from several different sediment studies within San Pedro Bay. Eleven of 33 samples were toxic (BPTCP). Two of 14 samples were toxic (Bight, 1998). None of three samples were toxic (W-EMAP) (LARWQCB & CCC, 2004).
Data Reference: Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Los Angeles RWQCB Basin Plan: All waters should be maintained free of toxic substances in concentrations that are toxic to, or that produce detrimental physiological response in, human, plant, animal, or aquatic life.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)
 
Evaluation Guideline: Samples were considered toxic if (1) there was a significant difference in mean organism response between the sample and the control, and (2) the mean organism response in the test, as a percent of the control, was less than the threshold based on the 90th percentile minimum significant difference value.
Guideline Reference: Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)
 
Spatial Representation: Fifty sites were sampled throughout San Pedro Bay.
Temporal Representation: Samples were collected in 1992, 1994, 1996, 1998 and 1999.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Contaminated Sediment Task Force (2005) and references therein (BPTCP QAPP, Bight 98 QAPP, EMAP 1999 QAPP).
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
LOE ID: 4151
 
Pollutant: PAHs (Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons) (sediment)
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Sediment
Matrix: Sediment
Fraction: Not Recorded
 
Beneficial Use: Commercial or recreational collection of fish, shellfish, or organisms
 
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):
 
LOE ID: 28530
 
Pollutant: PAHs (Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons)
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Sediment
Matrix: Sediment
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Marine Habitat
Aquatic Life Use: Preservation of Rare & Endangered Species
 
Number of Samples: 27
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: Toxicity testing of sediments
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Zero of 27 samples exceeded the effects range medium for high molecular weight PAHs, probable effects level for low molecular weight PAHs, and the sediment quality guidelines for total PAHs in marine sediment.
Data Reference: Southern California Bight 2003 Regional Marine Monitoring Survey Data
  Contaminated Sediments Task Force Sediment Chemistry data for San Pedro Bay. 1999-2003.
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Basin Plan states that, "[s]urface waters shall not contain concentrations of chemical constituents in amounts that adversely affect any designated beneficial use."
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan Los Angeles Region R4 Basin Plan
  Basin Plan Amendments to the Water Quality Control Plan Los Angeles Region R4 Basin Plan as of 02/02/2009
 
Evaluation Guideline: Long et. al. lists a sediment effects range median of 9,600 ng/g dry weight for high molecular weight PAHs. Macdonald et al. lists a probable effects level of 1,444 ng/g dry weight for low molecular weight PAHs. Fairey et. al. lists a sediment quality guidelines of 1,800 ug/g for total PAHs.
Guideline Reference: Incidence of adverse biological effects within ranges of chemical concentrations in marine and estuary sediments. Environmental Management. 19, (1): 81-97
  Development and evaluation of sediment quality guidelines for Florida coastal waters. Ecotoxicology 5: 253-278
  An evaluation of methods for calculating mean sediment quality guideline quotients as indicators of contamination and acute toxicity to amphipods by chemical mixtures. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry. 20(10): 2276-2286
 
Spatial Representation: Several state sponsored studies were collecting sediment samples in San Pedro Bay near/off shore zones, including BPTCP 1992-94, BPTCP 1996-97; Bight 1998; Bight 2003.
Temporal Representation: Composite surface sediment samples were taken and analyzed during spring/summer/fall.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Data was collected in compliance with the sampling and monitoring procedures detailed in Bay Protection Toxics Clean Program, Bight 1998, and Bight 2003 Quality Assurance Manual.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Bay Protection and Toxic Cleanup Program QAPP. (BPTCP). Sacramento, CA: State Water Resources Control Board
  Southern California Bight 2003 Regional Marine Monitoring Survey (Bight 03) Quality Assurance Manual
  Southern California Bight 1998 Regional Marine Monitoring Survey (Bight 98) Quality Assurance Manual
 
LOE ID: 28516
 
Pollutant: Sediment Toxicity
LOE Subgroup: Toxicity
Matrix: Sediment
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Marine Habitat
Aquatic Life Use: Preservation of Rare & Endangered Species
 
Number of Samples: 3
Number of Exceedances: 1
 
Data and Information Type: Toxicity testing of sediments
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: One of three sediment samples were deemed moderately toxic.
Data Reference: Southern California Bight 2003 Regional Marine Monitoring Survey Data
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Basin Plan states that, "[a]ll waters shall be maintained free of toxic substances in concentrations that are toxic to, or that produce detrimental physiological responses in human, plant, animal, or aquatic life."
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan Los Angeles Region R4 Basin Plan
  Basin Plan Amendments to the Water Quality Control Plan Los Angeles Region R4 Basin Plan as of 02/02/2009
 
Evaluation Guideline: Bay et. al. classifies sediment toxicity based on the following survival percentages: Non toxic if greater than or equal to 80% survival; moderately toxic if between 50 to 80% survival; and highly toxic if less than 50% survival.
Guideline Reference: Southern California Bight 1998 Regional Monitoring Program. Volume IV.
 
Spatial Representation: A total of three stations were monitored in the San Pedro Bay near/off shore zones which include the following stations:
4066 (Lat: 33.74137, Long: -118.11663),
4274 (Lat: 33.7282833333, Long: -118.157083333), and
4408 (Lat: 33.75495, Long: -118.163533333).
Temporal Representation: Composite surface sediment samples were taken on 07/21/2003 for station 4066, on 07/16/2003 and 08/07/2003 for stations 4098 and 4274.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Data was collected in compliance with the sampling and monitoring procedures detailed in Southern California Bight 2003 Regional Marine Monitoring Survey Quality Assurance Manual.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Southern California Bight 2003 Regional Marine Monitoring Survey (Bight 03) Quality Assurance Manual
 
DECISION ID
7293
 
Pollutant: Zinc (sediment)
Final Listing Decision: Delist from 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)(2006)
Revision Status Revised
Reason for Delisting: State determines water quality standard is being met
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Weight of Evidence: This pollutant is being considered for removal from the section 303(d) list under section 4.1 and 4.6 of the Listing Policy. Under this section a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status.

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

Line of Evidence (LOE) 4152, will not be considered in this decision because the LOE is a placeholder LOE and other data is available to assess the water-segment pollutant combination.

Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is sufficient justification for removing this water segment-pollutant combination from the section 303(d) list.

This conclusion is based on the staff findings that:
1. The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy.
2. The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy.
3. Zero of 59 surface sediment samples exceeded the effects range median for zinc in marine sediment and this meets the allowable frequency listed in Table 4.1 of the Listing Policy.
4. 14 of 53 surface sediment samples showed toxicity, however none were associated with elevated zinc levels and this meets the allowable frequency listed in Table 4.1 of the Listing Policy.
5. Pursuant to section 4.11 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 be removed from the section 303(d) list because applicable water quality standards for the pollutant are not being exceeded.
 
SWRCB Board Decision / Staff Recommendation:
 
USEPA Decision:
 
 
Lines of Evidence (LOEs) for Decision ID 7293
 
LOE ID: 4152
 
Pollutant: Zinc (sediment)
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Sediment
Matrix: Sediment
Fraction: Not Recorded
 
Beneficial Use: Marine Habitat
 
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):
 
LOE ID: 102
 
Pollutant: Sediment Toxicity
LOE Subgroup: Toxicity
Matrix: Sediment
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Marine Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 50
Number of Exceedances: 13
 
Data and Information Type: Toxicity testing of sediments
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Overall, thirteen of 50 samples were toxic. This total was created from several different sediment studies within San Pedro Bay. Eleven of 33 samples were toxic (BPTCP). Two of 14 samples were toxic (Bight, 1998). None of three samples were toxic (W-EMAP) (LARWQCB & CCC, 2004).
Data Reference: Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Los Angeles RWQCB Basin Plan: All waters should be maintained free of toxic substances in concentrations that are toxic to, or that produce detrimental physiological response in, human, plant, animal, or aquatic life.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)
 
Evaluation Guideline: Samples were considered toxic if (1) there was a significant difference in mean organism response between the sample and the control, and (2) the mean organism response in the test, as a percent of the control, was less than the threshold based on the 90th percentile minimum significant difference value.
Guideline Reference: Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)
 
Spatial Representation: Fifty sites were sampled throughout San Pedro Bay.
Temporal Representation: Samples were collected in 1992, 1994, 1996, 1998 and 1999.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Contaminated Sediment Task Force (2005) and references therein (BPTCP QAPP, Bight 98 QAPP, EMAP 1999 QAPP).
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
LOE ID: 28516
 
Pollutant: Sediment Toxicity
LOE Subgroup: Toxicity
Matrix: Sediment
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Marine Habitat
Aquatic Life Use: Preservation of Rare & Endangered Species
 
Number of Samples: 3
Number of Exceedances: 1
 
Data and Information Type: Toxicity testing of sediments
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: One of three sediment samples were deemed moderately toxic.
Data Reference: Southern California Bight 2003 Regional Marine Monitoring Survey Data
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Basin Plan states that, "[a]ll waters shall be maintained free of toxic substances in concentrations that are toxic to, or that produce detrimental physiological responses in human, plant, animal, or aquatic life."
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan Los Angeles Region R4 Basin Plan
  Basin Plan Amendments to the Water Quality Control Plan Los Angeles Region R4 Basin Plan as of 02/02/2009
 
Evaluation Guideline: Bay et. al. classifies sediment toxicity based on the following survival percentages: Non toxic if greater than or equal to 80% survival; moderately toxic if between 50 to 80% survival; and highly toxic if less than 50% survival.
Guideline Reference: Southern California Bight 1998 Regional Monitoring Program. Volume IV.
 
Spatial Representation: A total of three stations were monitored in the San Pedro Bay near/off shore zones which include the following stations:
4066 (Lat: 33.74137, Long: -118.11663),
4274 (Lat: 33.7282833333, Long: -118.157083333), and
4408 (Lat: 33.75495, Long: -118.163533333).
Temporal Representation: Composite surface sediment samples were taken on 07/21/2003 for station 4066, on 07/16/2003 and 08/07/2003 for stations 4098 and 4274.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Data was collected in compliance with the sampling and monitoring procedures detailed in Southern California Bight 2003 Regional Marine Monitoring Survey Quality Assurance Manual.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Southern California Bight 2003 Regional Marine Monitoring Survey (Bight 03) Quality Assurance Manual
 
LOE ID: 28528
 
Pollutant: Zinc
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Sediment
Matrix: Sediment
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Marine Habitat
Aquatic Life Use: Preservation of Rare & Endangered Species
 
Number of Samples: 59
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: Toxicity testing of sediments
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Zero of 59 samples exceeded the effects range median for zinc in marine sediment.
Data Reference: Southern California Bight 2003 Regional Marine Monitoring Survey Data
  Contaminated Sediments Task Force Sediment Chemistry data for San Pedro Bay. 1999-2003.
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Basin Plan states that, "[s]urface waters shall not contain concentrations of chemical constituents in amounts that adversely affect any designated beneficial use."
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan Los Angeles Region R4 Basin Plan
  Basin Plan Amendments to the Water Quality Control Plan Los Angeles Region R4 Basin Plan as of 02/02/2009
 
Evaluation Guideline: Long et. al. lists a sediment effects range median of 410 ug/g dry weight for zinc.
Guideline Reference: Incidence of adverse biological effects within ranges of chemical concentrations in marine and estuary sediments. Environmental Management. 19, (1): 81-97
 
Spatial Representation: Several state sponsored studies were collecting sediment samples in San Pedro Bay near/off shore zones, including BPTCP 1992-94, BPTCP 1996-97; Bight 1998; Bight 2003.
Temporal Representation: Composite surface sediment samples were taken and analyzed during spring/summer/fall.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Data was collected in compliance with the sampling and monitoring procedures detailed in Bay Protection Toxics Clean Program, Bight 1998, and Bight 2003 Quality Assurance Manual.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Bay Protection and Toxic Cleanup Program QAPP. (BPTCP). Sacramento, CA: State Water Resources Control Board
  Southern California Bight 2003 Regional Marine Monitoring Survey (Bight 03) Quality Assurance Manual
  Southern California Bight 1998 Regional Marine Monitoring Survey (Bight 98) Quality Assurance Manual
 
DECISION ID
6684
 
Pollutant: Sediment Toxicity
Final Listing Decision: Do Not Delist from 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: Do Not Delist from 303(d) list (TMDL required list)(2006)
Revision Status Revised
Sources: Nonpoint Source | Point Source
Expected TMDL Completion Date: 2009
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Weight of Evidence: Toxicity is being considered for removal from the list under section 4.6 of the Listing Policy. Under section 4.6 a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status for toxicity.

Two lines of evidence are available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. Based on the available data, the site does have significant toxicity.

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 in the Water Quality Limited Segments category.

This conclusion is based on the staff findings that:
1. The sediment quality guideline used complies, with the requirements of section 6.1.3 of the Policy.
2. The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy.
3. The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy.
4. 14 of the 53 samples were toxic and these exceed the allowable frequency listed in Table 4.1 of the Listing Policy.
5. Pursuant to section 4.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are 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 removed from the section 303(d) list because applicable water quality standards for the pollutant are being exceeded.
 
SWRCB Board Decision / Staff Recommendation:
 
USEPA Decision:
 
 
Lines of Evidence (LOEs) for Decision ID 6684
 
LOE ID: 102
 
Pollutant: Sediment Toxicity
LOE Subgroup: Toxicity
Matrix: Sediment
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Marine Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 50
Number of Exceedances: 13
 
Data and Information Type: Toxicity testing of sediments
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Overall, thirteen of 50 samples were toxic. This total was created from several different sediment studies within San Pedro Bay. Eleven of 33 samples were toxic (BPTCP). Two of 14 samples were toxic (Bight, 1998). None of three samples were toxic (W-EMAP) (LARWQCB & CCC, 2004).
Data Reference: Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Los Angeles RWQCB Basin Plan: All waters should be maintained free of toxic substances in concentrations that are toxic to, or that produce detrimental physiological response in, human, plant, animal, or aquatic life.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)
 
Evaluation Guideline: Samples were considered toxic if (1) there was a significant difference in mean organism response between the sample and the control, and (2) the mean organism response in the test, as a percent of the control, was less than the threshold based on the 90th percentile minimum significant difference value.
Guideline Reference: Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)
 
Spatial Representation: Fifty sites were sampled throughout San Pedro Bay.
Temporal Representation: Samples were collected in 1992, 1994, 1996, 1998 and 1999.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Contaminated Sediment Task Force (2005) and references therein (BPTCP QAPP, Bight 98 QAPP, EMAP 1999 QAPP).
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
LOE ID: 28516
 
Pollutant: Sediment Toxicity
LOE Subgroup: Toxicity
Matrix: Sediment
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Marine Habitat
Aquatic Life Use: Preservation of Rare & Endangered Species
 
Number of Samples: 3
Number of Exceedances: 1
 
Data and Information Type: Toxicity testing of sediments
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: One of three sediment samples were deemed moderately toxic.
Data Reference: Southern California Bight 2003 Regional Marine Monitoring Survey Data
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Basin Plan states that, "[a]ll waters shall be maintained free of toxic substances in concentrations that are toxic to, or that produce detrimental physiological responses in human, plant, animal, or aquatic life."
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan Los Angeles Region R4 Basin Plan
  Basin Plan Amendments to the Water Quality Control Plan Los Angeles Region R4 Basin Plan as of 02/02/2009
 
Evaluation Guideline: Bay et. al. classifies sediment toxicity based on the following survival percentages: Non toxic if greater than or equal to 80% survival; moderately toxic if between 50 to 80% survival; and highly toxic if less than 50% survival.
Guideline Reference: Southern California Bight 1998 Regional Monitoring Program. Volume IV.
 
Spatial Representation: A total of three stations were monitored in the San Pedro Bay near/off shore zones which include the following stations:
4066 (Lat: 33.74137, Long: -118.11663),
4274 (Lat: 33.7282833333, Long: -118.157083333), and
4408 (Lat: 33.75495, Long: -118.163533333).
Temporal Representation: Composite surface sediment samples were taken on 07/21/2003 for station 4066, on 07/16/2003 and 08/07/2003 for stations 4098 and 4274.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Data was collected in compliance with the sampling and monitoring procedures detailed in Southern California Bight 2003 Regional Marine Monitoring Survey Quality Assurance Manual.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Southern California Bight 2003 Regional Marine Monitoring Survey (Bight 03) Quality Assurance Manual