Final California 2010 Integrated Report (303(d) List/305(b) Report)

Supporting Information

Regional Board 4 - Los Angeles Region

Water Body Name:	San Gabriel River Estuary
Water Body ID:	CAR4051600020000229163853
Water Body Type:	River & Stream


DECISION ID	11842	Region 4
San Gabriel River Estuary

Pollutant:	Dioxin
Final Listing Decision:	List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision:	New Decision
Revision Status	Revised
Sources:	Source Unknown
Expected TMDL Completion Date:	2021
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution:	Pollutant

Regional Board Conclusion:	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. 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 in favor of 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 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. Four of four samples exceed the California Toxics Rule lists an organism consumption criterion for dioxin and this exceeds 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 met.

Regional Board Decision Recommendation:	After review of the available data and information, RWQCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should be placed on the section 303(d) list because applicable water quality standards are exceeded and a pollutant contributes to or causes the problem.

State Board Review of Regional Board Conclusion and Recommendation:

State Board Decision Recommendation:	After review of this Regional Board decision, SWRCB staff recommend the decision be approved by the State Board.

USEPA Action (if applicable):	USEPA approved the listing of this water body as a water quality limited segment requiring a TMDL for this pollutant.

Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 11842, Dioxin	Region 4
San Gabriel River Estuary

LOE ID:

25256

Pollutant:

Dioxin

LOE Subgroup:

Pollutant-Water

Matrix:

Water

Fraction:

None

Beneficial Use:

Estuarine Habitat

Aquatic Life Use:

Fish Migration | Fish Spawning | Preservation of Rare & Endangered Species | Wildlife Habitat

Number of Samples:

Number of Exceedances:

Data and Information Type:

Fixed station physical/chemical (conventional plus toxic pollutants)

Data Used to Assess Water Quality:

Three of three samples exceeded the California Toxics Rule Human Health fish consumption criterion for Dioxin.

Data Reference:

Data for Water Quality Constituents for the Haynes Generating Station (NPDES No. CA0000353).

SWAMP Data:

Non-SWAMP

Water Quality Objective/Criterion:

The California Toxics Rule lists an organism consumption criterion of 0.000000014 ug/L for Dioxin to protect human health. The standard is based on carcinogenicity at a 1-in-a-million risk level.

Objective/Criterion Reference:

Water Quality Standards 2000. Establishment of numeric criteria for priority toxic pollutants for the State of California: Rules and regulations. Federal Register Vol. 65, No. 97. Washington, D.C.: Environmental Protection Agency

Evaluation Guideline:

Guideline Reference:

Spatial Representation:

The City of Los Angeles Department of Water and Power conducted sampling in the San Gabriel River Estuary at the receiving water monitoring station RW10 located at the Pacific Coast Highway Bridge, at a point midway between the banks of the river.

Temporal Representation:

Grab samples were taken and analyzed between June 2003 and June 2004

Environmental Conditions:

QAPP Information:

Data was collected in compliance with the sampling and monitoring procedures detailed in Haynes Generating Station NPDES Permit (NPDES No. CA0000353) Monitoring and Reporting Program.

QAPP Information Reference(s):

Waste Discharge Requirements for AES Alamitos, L.L.C.(Alamitos Generating Station) NPDES No. CA0001139

Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 11842, Dioxin	Region 4
San Gabriel River Estuary

LOE ID:

25257

Pollutant:

Dioxin

LOE Subgroup:

Pollutant-Water

Matrix:

Water

Fraction:

None

Beneficial Use:

Estuarine Habitat

Aquatic Life Use:

Fish Migration | Fish Spawning | Preservation of Rare & Endangered Species | Wildlife Habitat

Number of Samples:

Number of Exceedances:

Data and Information Type:

Fixed station physical/chemical (conventional plus toxic pollutants)

Data Used to Assess Water Quality:

One of one sample exceeded the California Toxics Rule Human Health fish consumption criterion for Dioxin.

Data Reference:

Data for Water Quality Constituents for the Haynes Generating Station (NPDES No. CA0000353).

SWAMP Data:

Non-SWAMP

Water Quality Objective/Criterion:

The California Toxics Rule lists an organism consumption criterion of 0.000000014 ug/L for Dioxin to protect human health. The standard is based on carcinogenicity at a 1-in-a-million risk level.

Objective/Criterion Reference:

Evaluation Guideline:

Guideline Reference:

Spatial Representation:

AES Alamitos L.L.C. conducted sampling in the San Gabriel River Estuary at the receiving water monitoring station RW12 located at the Pacific Coast Highway Bridge, at a point midway between the banks of the river.

Temporal Representation:

Grab samples were taken and analyzed between June 2003 and August 2004

Environmental Conditions:

QAPP Information:

Data was collected in compliance with the sampling and monitoring procedures detailed in Alamitos Generating Station NPDES Permit (NPDES No. CA0001139) Monitoring and Reporting Program.

QAPP Information Reference(s):

Waste Discharge Requirements for City of Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (Haynes Generating Station) NPDES No. CA0000353.


DECISION ID	11984	Region 4
San Gabriel River Estuary

Pollutant:	Nickel
Final Listing Decision:	List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision:	New Decision
Revision Status	Revised
Sources:	Source Unknown
Expected TMDL Completion Date:	2021
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution:	Pollutant

Regional Board Conclusion:	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. Three 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 in favor of 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 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. 13 of 47 samples exceed the California Toxics Rule Criterion Continuous Concentration for nickel and this exceeds 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 met.

Regional Board Decision Recommendation:	After review of the available data and information, RWQCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should be placed on the section 303(d) list because applicable water quality standards are exceeded and a pollutant contributes to or causes the problem.

State Board Review of Regional Board Conclusion and Recommendation:

State Board Decision Recommendation:	After review of this Regional Board decision, SWRCB staff recommend the decision be approved by the State Board.

USEPA Action (if applicable):	USEPA approved the listing of this water body as a water quality limited segment requiring a TMDL for this pollutant.

Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 11984, Nickel	Region 4
San Gabriel River Estuary

LOE ID:

25287

Pollutant:

Nickel

LOE Subgroup:

Pollutant-Water

Matrix:

Water

Fraction:

Total

Beneficial Use:

Estuarine Habitat

Aquatic Life Use:

Fish Migration | Fish Spawning | Preservation of Rare & Endangered Species | Wildlife Habitat

Number of Samples:

Number of Exceedances:

Data and Information Type:

Fixed station physical/chemical (conventional plus toxic pollutants)

Data Used to Assess Water Quality:

Six of six samples exceeded the California Toxics Rule Criterion Continuous Concentration for Nickel. Water quality samples were taken and analyzed for Nickel in accordance with the Haynes Generating Station Permit monitoring and testing parameters.

Data Reference:

Data for Water Quality Constituents for the Haynes Generating Station (NPDES No. CA0000353).

SWAMP Data:

Non-SWAMP

Water Quality Objective/Criterion:

The California Toxics Rule lists a Criterion Continuous Concentrations of 8.2 ug/L for Nickel to protect aquatic life in saltwater.

Objective/Criterion Reference:

Evaluation Guideline:

Guideline Reference:

Spatial Representation:

Temporal Representation:

Grab samples were taken and analyzed between June 2003 and June 2004

Environmental Conditions:

QAPP Information:

Data was collected in compliance with the sampling and monitoring procedures detailed in Haynes Generating Station NPDES Permit (NPDES No. CA0000353) Monitoring and Reporting Program.

QAPP Information Reference(s):

Waste Discharge Requirements for City of Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (Haynes Generating Station) NPDES No. CA0000353.

Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 11984, Nickel	Region 4
San Gabriel River Estuary

LOE ID:

25286

Pollutant:

Nickel

LOE Subgroup:

Pollutant-Water

Matrix:

Water

Fraction:

Total

Beneficial Use:

Estuarine Habitat

Aquatic Life Use:

Fish Migration | Fish Spawning | Preservation of Rare & Endangered Species | Wildlife Habitat

Number of Samples:

Number of Exceedances:

Data and Information Type:

Fixed station physical/chemical (conventional plus toxic pollutants)

Data Used to Assess Water Quality:

Zero of six samples exceeded the California Toxics Rule Criterion Continuous Concentration for Nickel. Water quality samples were taken and analyzed for Nickel in accordance with the Alamitos Generating Station Permit monitoring and testing parameters.

Data Reference:

Data for Water Quality Constituents for the Haynes Generating Station (NPDES No. CA0000353).

SWAMP Data:

Non-SWAMP

Water Quality Objective/Criterion:

The California Toxics Rule lists a Criterion Continuous Concentration of 8.2 ug/L for Nickel to protect aquatic life in saltwater.

Objective/Criterion Reference:

Evaluation Guideline:

Guideline Reference:

Spatial Representation:

Temporal Representation:

Grab samples were taken and analyzed between June 2003 and August 2004

Environmental Conditions:

QAPP Information:

Data was collected in compliance with the sampling and monitoring procedures detailed in Alamitos Generating Station NPDES Permit (NPDES No. CA0001139) Monitoring and Reporting Program.

QAPP Information Reference(s):

Waste Discharge Requirements for AES Alamitos, L.L.C.(Alamitos Generating Station) NPDES No. CA0001139

Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 11984, Nickel	Region 4
San Gabriel River Estuary

LOE ID:

25285

Pollutant:

Nickel

LOE Subgroup:

Pollutant-Water

Matrix:

Water

Fraction:

Total

Beneficial Use:

Estuarine Habitat

Aquatic Life Use:

Fish Migration | Fish Spawning | Preservation of Rare & Endangered Species | Wildlife Habitat

Number of Samples:

Number of Exceedances:

Data and Information Type:

Fixed station physical/chemical (conventional plus toxic pollutants)

Data Used to Assess Water Quality:

Seven of 35 samples exceeded the California Toxics Rule Criterion Continuous Concentration for Nickel and 1 out of 35 samples exceeded the Criterion Maximum Concentration. Water quality samples were taken and analyzed for Nickel in accordance with the Long Beach Waste Water Reclamation Plant Permit monitoring and testing parameters.

Data Reference:

NPDES receiving water monitoring reports for Long Beach Water Reclamation Plant (NPDES No. CA0054119), Los Coyotes Water Reclamation Plant (NPDES No. CA0053716), Pomona Water Reclamation Plant (NPDES No. CA0053911), San Jose Creek Water Reclamation Plant (NPDES No. CA0053619), and Whittier Narrows Creek Water Reclamation Plant (NPDES No. CA0054011).

SWAMP Data:

Non-SWAMP

Water Quality Objective/Criterion:

The California Toxics Rule lists a Criterion Continuous Concentration of 8.2 ug/L and a Criterion Maximum Concentration of 74 ug/L for Nickel to protect aquatic life in saltwater for the total fraction.

Objective/Criterion Reference:

Evaluation Guideline:

Guideline Reference:

Spatial Representation:

The Sanitation Districts of Los Angeles County conducted sampling in Coyote Creek in the following receiving water monitoring stations: station RA2 located downstream of the confluence of the eastern and western low flow channel; station R6 located at College Park bridge; station R7 located at Westminster Avenue (Second Street); and station R8 located at Marina Avenue.

Temporal Representation:

Grab samples were taken and analyzed on quarterly basis from July 2004 to January 2007

Environmental Conditions:

QAPP Information:

Data was collected in compliance with the sampling and monitoring procedures detailed in Sanitation Districts of Los Angeles County (NPDES No. CA0054119) Monitoring and Reporting Program.

QAPP Information Reference(s):

Long Beach Water Reclamation Plant Monitoring and Reporting Program for NPDES No. CA0054119 (County Sanitation Districts of Los Angeles County)


DECISION ID	11995	Region 4
San Gabriel River Estuary

Pollutant:	Oxygen, Dissolved
Final Listing Decision:	List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision:	New Decision
Revision Status	Revised
Sources:	Source Unknown
Expected TMDL Completion Date:	2021
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution:	Pollutant

Regional Board Conclusion:	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. Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is sufficient justification in favor of 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 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. 94 of 526 samples do not meet the Basin Plan water quality objectives for dissolved oxygen and this exceeds 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 met.

Regional Board Decision Recommendation:	After review of the available data and information, RWQCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should be placed on the section 303(d) list because applicable water quality standards are not met and a pollutant contributes to or causes the problem.

State Board Review of Regional Board Conclusion and Recommendation:

State Board Decision Recommendation:	After review of this Regional Board decision, SWRCB staff recommend the decision be approved by the State Board.

USEPA Action (if applicable):	USEPA approved the listing of this water body as a water quality limited segment requiring a TMDL for this pollutant.

Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 11995, Oxygen, Dissolved	Region 4
San Gabriel River Estuary

LOE ID:

25289

Pollutant:

Oxygen, Dissolved

LOE Subgroup:

Pollutant-Water

Matrix:

Water

Fraction:

None

Beneficial Use:

Estuarine Habitat

Aquatic Life Use:

Fish Migration | Fish Spawning | Preservation of Rare & Endangered Species | Wildlife Habitat

Number of Samples:

Number of Exceedances:

Data and Information Type:

Fixed station physical/chemical (conventional plus toxic pollutants)

Data Used to Assess Water Quality:

13 of 60 samples did not meet the Basin Plan water quality objectives for dissolved oxygen. Water quality samples were taken and analyzed for dissolved oxygen in accordance with the Haynes Generating Station Permit monitoring and testing parameters.

Data Reference:

Data for Water Quality Constituents for the Haynes Generating Station (NPDES No. CA0000353).

SWAMP Data:

Non-SWAMP

Water Quality Objective/Criterion:

The Basin Plan states, "[a]t a minimum, the mean annual dissolved oxygen concentration of all waters shall be greater than 7 mg/L, and no single determination shall be less than 5.0 mg/L, except when natural conditions cause lesser concentrations."

Objective/Criterion Reference:

Water Quality Control Plan Los Angeles Region R4 Basin Plan

Evaluation Guideline:

Guideline Reference:

Spatial Representation:

Temporal Representation:

Grab samples were taken and analyzed in the summer and winter from 2002 to 2006.

Environmental Conditions:

QAPP Information:

Data was collected in compliance with the sampling and monitoring procedures detailed in Haynes Generating Station NPDES Permit (NPDES No. CA0000353) Monitoring and Reporting Program.

QAPP Information Reference(s):

Waste Discharge Requirements for City of Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (Haynes Generating Station) NPDES No. CA0000353.

Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 11995, Oxygen, Dissolved	Region 4
San Gabriel River Estuary

LOE ID:

25288

Pollutant:

Oxygen, Dissolved

LOE Subgroup:

Pollutant-Water

Matrix:

Water

Fraction:

None

Beneficial Use:

Estuarine Habitat

Aquatic Life Use:

Fish Migration | Fish Spawning | Preservation of Rare & Endangered Species | Wildlife Habitat

Number of Samples:

466

Number of Exceedances:

Data and Information Type:

Fixed station physical/chemical (conventional plus toxic pollutants)

Data Used to Assess Water Quality:

81 of 466 samples did not meet the Basin Plan water quality objectives for dissolved oxygen. Water quality samples were taken and analyzed for dissolved oxygen in accordance with the Long Beach Waste Water Reclamation Plant Permit monitoring and testing parameters.

Data Reference:

SWAMP Data:

Non-SWAMP

Water Quality Objective/Criterion:

Objective/Criterion Reference:

Water Quality Control Plan Los Angeles Region R4 Basin Plan

Evaluation Guideline:

Guideline Reference:

Spatial Representation:

Temporal Representation:

Grab samples were taken and analyzed on quarterly basis from July 2004 to January 2007

Environmental Conditions:

QAPP Information:

Data was collected in compliance with the sampling and monitoring procedures detailed in Sanitation Districts of Los Angeles County (NPDES No. CA0054119) Monitoring and Reporting Program.

QAPP Information Reference(s):

Long Beach Water Reclamation Plant Monitoring and Reporting Program for NPDES No. CA0054119 (County Sanitation Districts of Los Angeles County)


DECISION ID	6065	Region 4
San Gabriel River Estuary

Pollutant:	Copper
Final Listing Decision:	List on 303(d) list (being addressed by USEPA approved TMDL)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision:	List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)(2006)
Revision Status	Revised
Sources:	Source Unknown
TMDL Name:	San Gabriel River Metals (39)
TMDL Project Code:	385
Date TMDL Approved by USEPA:	03/27/2007
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution:	Pollutant

Regional Board Conclusion:	This pollutant is being considered for removal from the section 303(d) list under section 2.2 and 4.1 of the Listing Policy. Under this section a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status. Five lines of evidence are available in the administrative record to assess 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 TMDL has been completed and established by USEPA, and is expected to result in attainment of the standard. 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. 17 of 61 samples exceeded the California Toxics Rule Criterion Continuous Concentration for copper and this exceeds the allowable frequency listed in Table 4.1 of the Listing Policy. 4.The San Gabriel River Metals TMDL has been established by USEPA on 03/26/2007. 5. Pursuant to section 4.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are met.

Regional Board Decision Recommendation:	After review of the available data and information, RWQCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should be placed on the Water Quality Limited Segments Being Addressed category of the section 303(d) list because a TMDL has been established by USEPA, and applicable water quality standards are exceeded and a pollutant contributes to or causes the problem.

State Board Review of Regional Board Conclusion and Recommendation:

State Board Decision Recommendation:	After review of this Regional Board decision, SWRCB staff recommend the decision be approved by the State Board.

USEPA Action (if applicable):

Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 6065, Copper	Region 4
San Gabriel River Estuary

LOE ID:

2496

Pollutant:

Copper

LOE Subgroup:

Pollutant-Water

Matrix:

Water

Fraction:

Dissolved

Beneficial Use:

Estuarine Habitat

Number of Samples:

Number of Exceedances:

Data and Information Type:

PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING

Data Used to Assess Water Quality:

Available data indicate numeric CTR standards are violated for copper 5 out of 40 results (USEPA, 2007).

Data Reference:

Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)

SWAMP Data:

Non-SWAMP

Water Quality Objective/Criterion:

Basin Plan: Surface waters shall not contain concentrations of chemical constituents in amounts that adversely affect any designated beneficial use.

Objective/Criterion Reference:

Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)

Evaluation Guideline:

CTR values for copper in saltwater: 4.8 ppb (CMC, acute) 3.1 ppb (CCC, chronic).

Guideline Reference:

Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)

Spatial Representation:

Four sampling locations: receiving water stations RA2, R6, R7, and R8.

Temporal Representation:

Samples collected from June 2003 to November 2005.

Environmental Conditions:

QAPP Information:

Data record: 2003-2006, LA RWQCB comment letter, 2006

QAPP Information Reference(s):

Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 6065, Copper	Region 4
San Gabriel River Estuary

LOE ID:

28717

Pollutant:

Copper

LOE Subgroup:

Narrative Description Data

Matrix:

Not Specified

Fraction:

None

Beneficial Use:

Estuarine Habitat

Aquatic Life Use:

Fish Migration | Fish Spawning | Preservation of Rare & Endangered Species | Wildlife Habitat

Number of Samples:

Number of Exceedances:

Data and Information Type:

Not Specified

Data Used to Assess Water Quality:

A TMDL has been established for this water segment-pollutant combination. The San Gabriel River MetalsTMDL was established by USEPA on March 26, 2007.

Data Reference:

Staff report and appendix establishing a TMDL for Metals in the San Gabriel River Watershed.

SWAMP Data:

Non-SWAMP

Water Quality Objective/Criterion:

Objective/Criterion Reference:

Evaluation Guideline:

Guideline Reference:

Spatial Representation:

Temporal Representation:

Environmental Conditions:

QAPP Information:

QA information unavailable.

QAPP Information Reference(s):

Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 6065, Copper	Region 4
San Gabriel River Estuary

LOE ID:

25291

Pollutant:

Copper

LOE Subgroup:

Pollutant-Water

Matrix:

Water

Fraction:

Total

Beneficial Use:

Estuarine Habitat

Aquatic Life Use:

Fish Migration | Fish Spawning | Preservation of Rare & Endangered Species | Wildlife Habitat

Number of Samples:

Number of Exceedances:

Data and Information Type:

Fixed station physical/chemical (conventional plus toxic pollutants)

Data Used to Assess Water Quality:

Zero of 6 samples exceeded the California Toxics Rule Criterion Continuous Concentration for Copper. Water quality samples were taken and analyzed for Copper in accordance with the Alamitos Generating Station Permit monitoring and testing parameters.

Data Reference:

Data for Water Quality Constituents for the Haynes Generating Station (NPDES No. CA0000353).

SWAMP Data:

Non-SWAMP

Water Quality Objective/Criterion:

The California Toxics Rule lists a Criterion Maximum Concentration of 5.78 ug/L and a Criterion Continuous Concentration of 3.73 ug/L for Copper to protect aquatic life in saltwater for the total fraction.

Objective/Criterion Reference:

Evaluation Guideline:

Guideline Reference:

Spatial Representation:

Temporal Representation:

Grab samples were taken and analyzed between June 2003 and August 2004

Environmental Conditions:

QAPP Information:

Data was collected in compliance with the sampling and monitoring procedures detailed in Alamitos Generating Station NPDES Permit (NPDES No. CA0001139) Monitoring and Reporting Program.

QAPP Information Reference(s):

Waste Discharge Requirements for AES Alamitos, L.L.C.(Alamitos Generating Station) NPDES No. CA0001139

Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 6065, Copper	Region 4
San Gabriel River Estuary

LOE ID:

25292

Pollutant:

Copper

LOE Subgroup:

Pollutant-Water

Matrix:

Water

Fraction:

Total

Beneficial Use:

Estuarine Habitat

Aquatic Life Use:

Fish Migration | Fish Spawning | Preservation of Rare & Endangered Species | Wildlife Habitat

Number of Samples:

Number of Exceedances:

Data and Information Type:

Fixed station physical/chemical (conventional plus toxic pollutants)

Data Used to Assess Water Quality:

Five of six samples exceeded the California Toxics Rule Criterion Continuous Concentration for Copper and five of six samples exceeded the Criterion Maximum Concentration. Water quality samples were taken and analyzed for Copper in accordance with the Haynes Generating Station Permit monitoring and testing parameters.

Data Reference:

Data for Water Quality Constituents for the Haynes Generating Station (NPDES No. CA0000353).

SWAMP Data:

Non-SWAMP

Water Quality Objective/Criterion:

Objective/Criterion Reference:

Evaluation Guideline:

Guideline Reference:

Spatial Representation:

Temporal Representation:

Grab samples were taken and analyzed between June 2003 and June 2004

Environmental Conditions:

QAPP Information:

Data was collected in compliance with the sampling and monitoring procedures detailed in Haynes Generating Station NPDES Permit (NPDES No. CA0000353) Monitoring and Reporting Program.

QAPP Information Reference(s):

Waste Discharge Requirements for City of Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (Haynes Generating Station) NPDES No. CA0000353.

Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 6065, Copper	Region 4
San Gabriel River Estuary

LOE ID:

25290

Pollutant:

Copper

LOE Subgroup:

Pollutant-Water

Matrix:

Water

Fraction:

Total

Beneficial Use:

Estuarine Habitat

Aquatic Life Use:

Fish Migration | Fish Spawning | Preservation of Rare & Endangered Species | Wildlife Habitat

Number of Samples:

Number of Exceedances:

Data and Information Type:

Fixed station physical/chemical (conventional plus toxic pollutants)

Data Used to Assess Water Quality:

Seven of nine samples exceeded the California Toxics Rule Criterion Continuous Concentration for Copper and 1 out of 9 samples exceeded the Criterion Maximum Concentration. Water quality samples were taken and analyzed for Copper in accordance with the Long Beach Waste Water Reclamation Plant Permit monitoring and testing parameters.

Data Reference:

SWAMP Data:

Non-SWAMP

Water Quality Objective/Criterion:

The California Toxics Rule lists a Criterion Maximum Concentration of 4.8 ug/L and a Criterion Continuous Concentration of 3.1 ug/L for Copper to protect aquatic life in saltwater.

Objective/Criterion Reference:

Evaluation Guideline:

Guideline Reference:

Spatial Representation:

Temporal Representation:

Grab samples were taken and analyzed on quarterly basis from December 2005 to January 2007.

Environmental Conditions:

QAPP Information:

Data was collected in compliance with the sampling and monitoring procedures detailed in Sanitation Districts of Los Angeles County (NPDES No. CA0054119) Monitoring and Reporting Program.

QAPP Information Reference(s):

Long Beach Water Reclamation Plant Monitoring and Reporting Program for NPDES No. CA0054119 (County Sanitation Districts of Los Angeles County)


DECISION ID	4677	Region 4
San Gabriel River Estuary

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

Regional Board Conclusion:	This pollutant is being considered for delisting under sections 4.8 of the Listing Policy. Under section 4.8 delisting is appropriate when documented adverse biological responses are not associated with water or sediment numeric pollutant specific evaluation guidelines. Two lines of evidence are available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. Based on section 4.8, adverse biological responses have been documented in fish taken from the site. Although a small portion of the fish collected exhibited impacts from toxicity, the majority of the fish samples collected from the San Gabriel River and its tributaries were victims of infectious disease. Therefore, there is insufficient information to conclude that the documented adverse biological responses are associated with specific pollutant(s). Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is sufficient justification in favor of removing this water segment-pollutant combination from the section 303(d) list in the Water Quality Limited Segments category. This conclusion is based on 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. The majority of the fish collected showed adverse biological responses associated with infectious disease and not due to pollutant caused toxicity. 4. Pursuant to section 4.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are met.

Regional Board Decision Recommendation:	The decision has not changed.

State Board Review of Regional Board Conclusion and Recommendation:

State Board Decision Recommendation:	After review of this Regional Board decision, SWRCB staff recommend the decision be approved by the State Board.

USEPA Action (if applicable):

Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 4677, Abnormal Fish Histology (Lesions)	Region 4
San Gabriel River Estuary

LOE ID:

2495

Pollutant:

Abnormal Fish Histology (Lesions)

LOE Subgroup:

Adverse Biological Responses

Matrix:

Water

Fraction:

None

Beneficial Use:

Warm Freshwater Habitat

Number of Samples:

Number of Exceedances:

Data and Information Type:

Not Specified

Data Used to Assess Water Quality:

San Gabriel River Tidal Prism at Confluence of Coyote Creek (LACSD, 2004):

A total of 21 tilapia (Tilapia sp.) were collected at this site. Extensive inflammation of the trigeminal ganglion was observed with cells that had characteristics of eosinophilic granular leukocytes. The cells in question were associated with a swollen feature of the nerve indicating damage to the glial cells. The frequency of this abnormality was 33%. Gill necrosis was observed in 3 of the animals studied and this involved mitochondria-rich (chloride) cells and pavement respiratory epithelium. The frequency for this lesion was 14%. Inflammation of gill arches and branchial cavity epithelium was observed in 2 of the individuals studied. The frequency of this alteration was 9%. Two of the individuals showed renal pathology. In one of these, extensive severe tubular epithelial hyalinization had occurred. This was associated with disruption of the nephron wall at that site. In another individual, interstitial inflammation was observed. Skin necrosis was found in 2 of the 21 animals observed. One gut parasite was found and appeared to be a tapeworm.

San Gabriel River Tidal Prism at College Park Drive (LACSD, 2004b):

A total of 30 tilapia (Tilapia sp.) and 1 white croaker (Genyonemus lineatus) were examined h m this site. Histopathologic examination revealed severe inflammation in submucosa and circular muscularis of the stomach. The inflammatory cells were eosinophilic granular leukocytes or macrophages which contained eosinophilic granules. In addition to this change, the white croaker showed mild inflammation around bile structures in the liver and inflammatory response in the wall of the heart. In addition, macrophage aggregates were present in the liver at a frequency of 3 per 10 X field. The white croaker also showed mild inflammation of the gill and two flukes (parasitic trematodes) were attached to gill structures. In the 30 tilapia, fairly consistent involvement of the eosinophilic granular leukocytes in inflammatory foci around the trigeminal ganglion and branches of the trigeminal nerve were seen. The frequency of this lesion was 30%. In addition to the changes within the 5th cranial nerve, alterations were seen in gills that indicated that 3 of the 30 individuals showed aneurysm formation in blood vessels of secondary larnellae. In addition, inflammation of gill arch and filaments and adjacent regions of the branchial cavity wall were seen. The frequency for this lesion was 17%. Inflammation of the liver in areas adjacent to arterial structures and large tributaries of the hepatic venous system were seen. The inflammatory cells were usually eosinophilic granular leukocytes. The frequency for this change was 13%. Two of the fish showed inclusion bodies within hepatocytes. These were quite frequently seen and were close in resemblance to the tubular epithelium hyaline granules of the kidney. In addition, 4 fish showed interstitial inflammation of the kidney and 5 showed extensive degeneration with tubular epithelium showing hyaline change. The frequency for the latter was 17%. Some of the tubular degenerative changes had advanced to the formation of tubular deposits of calcium and this characterized 2 of the 30 individuals. Heart ventricular mineralization was also seen in 4 of the 30 individuals examined. Skin necrosis involved 2 of the 30 individuals and was a consistent change in the affected fish. A large skin lesion was observed on one tilapia. One fish showed a parasite within the gut lumen.

Data Reference:

Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)

SWAMP Data:

Non-SWAMP

Water Quality Objective/Criterion:

Basin Plan: All waters shall 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. Compliance with this objective will be determined by use of indicator organisms, analyses of species diversity, population density, growth anomalies, bioassays of appropriate duration or other appropriate methods as specified by the State or Regional Board.

Objective/Criterion Reference:

Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)

Evaluation Guideline:

With a thorough prior knowledge of normal fish anatomy, the investigators used histological analysis to detect alterations in tissues and organs caused by exposure to toxicants. When the concentration of a toxicant is sufficient to result only in cellular injury, but not in death of the cells, sublethal (adaptive) changes may be observed in affected cells.

A combination of the necropsy-based approach and the histological condition index was used in this study. Alterations from the expected normal gross anatomy and microscopic anatomy of resident fishes, fathead minnow (Pimephales promelas), goldfish (Cyprinus carpio), white croaker (Genyonemus lineatus) mosquito fish (Gambusia affinis), and tilapia (Tilapia sp.) were included in the investigation. Lesions were compared to reference populations.

Guideline Reference:

Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)

Spatial Representation:

Fish were collected from four sites in the lower San Gabriel River watershed. The sites included Coyote Creek above and below the Long Beach wastewater treatment plant outfall, the San Gabriel River at the confluence of Coyote Creek, and from the tidal prism at College Park Drive.

Temporal Representation:

Samples were collected between 1992 and 1993.

Environmental Conditions:

QAPP Information:

Quality Assurance and methods well described in the report: "Toxicity study of the Santa Clara, San Gabriel River, and Calleguas Creek" (Bailey et al., 1996 in LACSD, 2004b).

QAPP Information Reference(s):

Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 4677, Abnormal Fish Histology (Lesions)	Region 4
San Gabriel River Estuary

LOE ID:

2494

Pollutant:

Abnormal Fish Histology (Lesions)

LOE Subgroup:

Narrative Description Data

Matrix:

Not Specified

Fraction:

None

Beneficial Use:

Estuarine Habitat

Number of Samples:

Number of Exceedances:

Data and Information Type:

Not Specified

Data Used to Assess Water Quality:

This evaluation of data came from the report: "Toxicity study of the Santa Clara, San Gabriel River, and Calleguas Creek" (Bailey et al., 1996 in LACSD, 2004b).Toxicity Identification Evaluations were completed and it was suggested that diazinon, chlorpyrifos, and ammonia were the cause of the toxicity. Studies of upstream and downstream sites in the San Gabriel River Tidal Prism revealed toxicity. Inflammatory lesions were prevalent at about 30% in fish from both sites. Gill toxicity reactions were seen at equal frequency. In the upper site, only two fish showed extensive tubular epithelial hyalinization of kidney while 5 of their counterparts from the lower site were positive for the same lesion. In addition, the lesions had advanced in the downstream affected fish to the point at which tubular deposits of calcium were prominent in two fish. Heart ventricle also showed mineralization, a likely sequel to systemic infection. Skin necrosis, likely a direct result of toxicity in the water column characterized two of the 30 fish at the lower site.

The analysis of fish collected from the San Gabriel River and its tributaries suggests that a sizeable portion of the individuals are victims of infectious disease and a smaller portion reveal signs of toxicity. These are not healthy fish and their tissue conditions do not resemble those of fishes from reference habitats previously investigated by this group.

Data Reference:

Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)

SWAMP Data:

Non-SWAMP

Water Quality Objective/Criterion:

Objective/Criterion Reference:

Evaluation Guideline:

Guideline Reference:

Spatial Representation:

Temporal Representation:

Environmental Conditions:

QAPP Information:

QA Info Missing

QAPP Information Reference(s):


DECISION ID	4167	Region 4
San Gabriel River Estuary

Pollutant:	Ammonia as Nitrogen
Final Listing Decision:	Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision:	Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)(2006)
Revision Status	Original
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution:	Pollutant

Regional Board Conclusion:	This pollutant is being considered for listing under section 3.1 of the Listing Policy. Under this section 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. A remedial program other than a TMDL has been developed, approved, and is being implemented. This program is expected to result in attainment of the standard. Three of 466 samples exceed the four-day average objective for ammonia and none of 466 samples exceed the one-hour average objective for ammonia. 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 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. Three of 466 samples exceed the four-day average objective for ammonia and none of 466 samples exceed the one-hour average objective for ammonia 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.

Regional Board Decision Recommendation:	The decision has not changed.

State Board Review of Regional Board Conclusion and Recommendation:

State Board Decision Recommendation:	After review of this Regional Board decision, SWRCB staff recommend the decision be approved by the State Board.

USEPA Action (if applicable):

Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 4167, Ammonia as Nitrogen	Region 4
San Gabriel River Estuary

LOE ID:

2492

Pollutant:

Ammonia as Nitrogen

LOE Subgroup:

Narrative Description Data

Matrix:

Not Specified

Fraction:

None

Beneficial Use:

Estuarine Habitat

Number of Samples:

Number of Exceedances:

Data and Information Type:

Not Specified

Data Used to Assess Water Quality:

An alternative enforceable program is in place that will address ammonia water quality standards exceedances for this reach. In June 1995, the seven water reclamation plants discharging in the San Gabriel River and Santa Clara River watersheds received NPDES permits containing requirements regarding compliance with the Basin Plan water quality objectives for ammonia. In accordance with these permits, the Los Angeles County Sanitation Districts have been pursuing the addition of nitrification and denitrification facilities at each of these plants to comply with the ammonia objectives. By June 2003, it is expected that these new facilities will be operational and ammonia will be drastically reduced. Research facility operation shows that the monthly average ammonia
concentration will fully comply with the chronic ammonia objective that are
expected to be applicable in June 2003.

It is probable that the majority of ammonia discharged to this water body
was contributed by POTWs. Information in the record indicates that the
majority (over 95%) of the ammonia in the Los Angeles River was
contributed by POTWs. It is probable that the contribution in the San
Gabriel River watershed is dominated by contributions from POTWs as
well. Generally, concentrations of ammonia upstream of the treatment
plants are much lower than downstream concentrations (up to an order of magnitude difference).

Data Reference:

Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)

SWAMP Data:

Non-SWAMP

Water Quality Objective/Criterion:

Objective/Criterion Reference:

Evaluation Guideline:

Guideline Reference:

Spatial Representation:

Temporal Representation:

Environmental Conditions:

QAPP Information:

QA Info Missing

QAPP Information Reference(s):

Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 4167, Ammonia as Nitrogen	Region 4
San Gabriel River Estuary

LOE ID:

2493

Pollutant:

Ammonia as Nitrogen

LOE Subgroup:

Pollutant-Water

Matrix:

Water

Fraction:

None

Beneficial Use:

Estuarine Habitat

Number of Samples:

466

Number of Exceedances:

Data and Information Type:

PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING

Data Used to Assess Water Quality:

Three of 466 samples exceed the four-day average water quality objective and none of 466 samples exceed the one-hour average water quality objective (LACSD, 2006).

Data Reference:

Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)

SWAMP Data:

Non-SWAMP

Water Quality Objective/Criterion:

Los Angeles RWQCB Basin Plan Amendment: The four-day average concentration of un-ionized ammonia shall not exceed 0.035 mg/L and the one-hour average concentration shall not exceed 0.233 mg/L.

Objective/Criterion Reference:

Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)

Evaluation Guideline:

USEPA Ambient Water Quality Criteria for Ammonia (Saltwater) -
1989.

Guideline Reference:

Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)

Spatial Representation:

Four sampling locations: receiving water stations RA2, R6, R7, and R8.

Temporal Representation:

Samples collected from June 2003 to November 2005.

Environmental Conditions:

QAPP Information:

QA Info Missing

QAPP Information Reference(s):