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

Supporting Information

Regional Board 6 - Lahontan Region

Water Body Name:	Holcomb Creek
Water Body ID:	CAR6282000020000215160943
Water Body Type:	River & Stream


DECISION ID	8999	Region 6
Holcomb Creek

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

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. 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 two ANC samples are available for Holcomb Creek, and both are below 20 mg/L. 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 two samples exceed 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.

Regional Board Decision 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.

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 8999, Acid Neutralizing Capacity	Region 6
Holcomb Creek

LOE ID:

8264

Pollutant:

Acid Neutralizing Capacity

LOE Subgroup:

Pollutant-Water

Matrix:

Water

Fraction:

None

Beneficial Use:

Cold Freshwater 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:

The U.S. Geological Survey sampled Holcomb Creek under the Region 6 SWAMP program. Two samples collected in March and June 2003 were analyzed for ANC. The results were ANC values of 7.9 and 7.6 mg/L CaCO3.

Data Reference:

2007. SWAMP Data for the Mojave River Watershed

SWAMP Data:

SWAMP

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:

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, Holcomb Creek at Crab Flats Road, was sampled.

Temporal Representation:

Two samples were collected in March and June 2003.

Environmental Conditions:

Holcomb Creek is a tributary of Deep Creek, the largest tributary of the Mojave River, located in San Bernardino National Forest. Its headwaters are located north of Big Bear Lake.

QAPP Information:

The data meet the quality assurance requirements of the SWAMP QAPP.

QAPP Information Reference(s):


DECISION ID	8995	Region 6
Holcomb Creek

Pollutant:	Boron
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

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. None of the samples or annual average datapoints exceed the applicable water quality objectives. 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 9 samples exceeded the California Maximum Contaminant Level. none of 4 annual average datapoints (calculated from only 1 to 3 samples per year) exceeded the site-specific 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.

Regional Board Decision 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 it cannot be determined if applicable water quality standards are not being exceeded.

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 8995, Boron	Region 6
Holcomb Creek

LOE ID:

5344

Pollutant:

Boron

LOE Subgroup:

Pollutant-Water

Matrix:

Water

Fraction:

Dissolved

Beneficial Use:

Cold Freshwater 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:

The U.S. Geological Survey sampled Holcomb Creek under the Region 6 SWAMP program. Of 9 boron samples, 3 were estimated values. Boron concentrations in the remaining 6 samples ranged from 8.5 to 41 ug/L. The annual average objective was not violated.

Data Reference:

2007. SWAMP Data for the Mojave River Watershed

SWAMP Data:

SWAMP

Water Quality Objective/Criterion:

The site-specific objective for Deep Creek Station 5, from Lahontan Basin Plan Table 3-21, applies. It includes an annual average of 0.05 mg/L (or 50 ug/L), and a 90th percentile value of 0.07 mg/L (or 70 ug/L).

Objective/Criterion Reference:

Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)

Evaluation Guideline:

Guideline Reference:

Spatial Representation:

One station, Holcomb Creek at Crab Flats Road, was sampled.

Temporal Representation:

Nine samples were collected. One sample was collected in 2001, no samples were collected in 2002, and 2 to 3 samples per year were collected quarterly between 2003 and 2005.

Environmental Conditions:

Holcomb Creek is a tributary of Deep Creek, the largest tributary of the Mojave River, located in San Bernardino National Forest. Its headwaters are located north of Big Bear Lake.

QAPP Information:

The data meet the quality assurance requirements of the SWAMP QAPP.

QAPP Information Reference(s):

Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 8995, Boron	Region 6
Holcomb Creek

LOE ID:

8079

Pollutant:

Boron

LOE Subgroup:

Pollutant-Water

Matrix:

Water

Fraction:

Dissolved

Beneficial Use:

Municipal & Domestic Supply

Number of Samples:

Number of Exceedances:

Data and Information Type:

Fixed station physical/chemical (conventional plus toxic pollutants)

Data Used to Assess Water Quality:

Data Reference:

2007. SWAMP Data for the Mojave River Watershed

SWAMP Data:

SWAMP

Water Quality Objective/Criterion:

The California State Notification Level criterion for boron is 1000 ug/L.

Objective/Criterion Reference:

Drinking Water Notification and Response Levels: An Overview

Evaluation Guideline:

Guideline Reference:

Spatial Representation:

One station, Holcomb Creek at Crab Flats Road, was sampled.

Temporal Representation:

Nine samples were collected. One sample was collected in 2001, no samples were collected in 2002, and 2 to 3 samples per year were collected quarterly between 2003 and 2005.

Environmental Conditions:

Holcomb Creek is a tributary of Deep Creek, the largest tributary of the Mojave River, located in San Bernardino National Forest. Its headwaters are located north of Big Bear Lake.

QAPP Information:

The data meet the quality assurance requirements of the SWAMP QAPP.

QAPP Information Reference(s):


DECISION ID	7804	Region 6
Holcomb Creek

Pollutant:	Chloride
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

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. None of the samples or annual average datapoints exceed the applicable 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 samples 13 individual samples or five annual average datapoints exceeded the applicable 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.

Regional Board Decision 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.

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 7804, Chloride	Region 6
Holcomb Creek

LOE ID:

5351

Pollutant:

Chloride

LOE Subgroup:

Pollutant-Water

Matrix:

Water

Fraction:

Dissolved

Beneficial Use:

Municipal & Domestic Supply

Number of Samples:

Number of Exceedances:

Data and Information Type:

Fixed station physical/chemical (conventional plus toxic pollutants)

Data Used to Assess Water Quality:

The U.S. Geological Survey collected chloride samples under the Region 6 SWAMP program between 2001 and 2005. Chloride concentrations in 13 samples ranged from 1.12 to 5.21 mg/L. The MCL was not violated.

Data Reference:

2007. SWAMP Data for the Mojave River Watershed

SWAMP Data:

SWAMP

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 chloride is 250 mg/L.

Objective/Criterion Reference:

Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)

Evaluation Guideline:

Guideline Reference:

Spatial Representation:

One station, Holcomb Creek at Crab Flats Road, was sampled.

Temporal Representation:

Thirteen quarterly samples (1 to 3 samples per year) were collected between 2001 and 2005.

Environmental Conditions:

Holcomb Creek is a tributary of Deep Creek, the largest tributary of the Mojave River, located in San Bernardino National Forest. Its headwaters are located north of Big Bear Lake.

QAPP Information:

The data meet the quality assurance requirements of the SWAMP QAPP.

QAPP Information Reference(s):

Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 7804, Chloride	Region 6
Holcomb Creek

LOE ID:

5233

Pollutant:

Chloride

LOE Subgroup:

Pollutant-Water

Matrix:

Water

Fraction:

Dissolved

Beneficial Use:

Cold Freshwater 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:

The U.S. Geological Survey collected quarterly chloride samples under the Region 6 SWAMP program between 2001 and 2005. Chloride concentrations in 13 samples ranged from 1.12 to 5.21 mg/L. The annual average objective was not exceeded.

Data Reference:

2007. SWAMP Data for the Mojave River Watershed

SWAMP Data:

SWAMP

Water Quality Objective/Criterion:

The site-specific objective for chloride (for Station 5 in Lahontan Basin Plan Table 3-21) includes an annual average of 9.1 mg/L and a 90th percentile value of 16.0 mg/L.

Objective/Criterion Reference:

Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)

Evaluation Guideline:

Guideline Reference:

Spatial Representation:

One station, Holcomb Creek at Crab Flats Road, was sampled.

Temporal Representation:

Thirteen samples (1 to 3 samples per year) were collected between 2001 and 2005.

Environmental Conditions:

Holcomb Creek is a tributary of Deep Creek, the largest tributary of the Mojave River, located in San Bernardino National Forest. Its headwaters are located north of Big Bear Lake.

QAPP Information:

The data meet the quality assurance requirements of the SWAMP QAPP.

QAPP Information Reference(s):


DECISION ID	7722	Region 6
Holcomb Creek

Pollutant:	Dissolved oxygen saturation
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

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. One line of evidence is available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. None of the samples exceed the water quality objective. Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is sufficient justification against placing this water segment-pollutant combination on the section 303(d) list in the Water Quality Limited Segments category. This conclusion is based on the staff findings that: 1. The data used satisfy the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy. 2. The data used do not satisfy the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy. Three quarterly samples do not capture the diel, seasonal and annual variability expected in streamflows and dissolved oxygen concentrations in streams of the Lahontan Region. 3. None of three 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.

Regional Board Decision 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 requirements of the Listing Policy.

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 7722, Dissolved oxygen saturation	Region 6
Holcomb Creek

LOE ID:

5818

Pollutant:

Dissolved oxygen saturation

LOE Subgroup:

Pollutant-Water

Matrix:

Water

Fraction:

Dissolved

Beneficial Use:

Cold Freshwater 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:

The U.S. Geological Survey took three quarterly measurements of dissolved oxygen saturation in Holcomb Creek under the Region 6 SWAMP program between November 2004 and July 2005. Percent saturation ranged from 100 to 106 percent. The objective was not violated. However, sampling frequency was insufficient to define background levels or detect change.

Data Reference:

2007. SWAMP Data for the Mojave River Watershed

SWAMP Data:

SWAMP

Water Quality Objective/Criterion:

The Lahontan Basin Plan's water quality objective states that percent saturation shall not be depressed by more than 10 percent and minimum dissolved oxygen concentration shall not be less than 80 percent saturation.

Objective/Criterion Reference:

Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)

Evaluation Guideline:

Guideline Reference:

Spatial Representation:

One station, Holcomb Creek at Crab Flats Road, was sampled.

Temporal Representation:

Three quarterly measurements of percent saturation were taken between November 2004 and July 2005.

Environmental Conditions:

Holcomb Creek is a tributary of Deep Creek, the largest tributary of the Mojave River, located in San Bernardino National Forest. Its headwaters are located north of Big Bear Lake.

QAPP Information:

The data meet the quality assurance requirements of the SWAMP QAPP.

QAPP Information Reference(s):


DECISION ID	8996	Region 6
Holcomb Creek

Pollutant:	Fluoride
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

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. None of the samples or annual average datapoints exceed the applicable water quality objectives. 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 10 samples exceeded the California Maximum Contaminant Level. none of 4 annual average datapoints (calculated from only 1 to 3 sampes per year) exceeded the site-specific objective and this does not exceed the allowable frequency listed in Table 3.2 of the Listing Policy. The minimum sample number requirement of Table 3.2 is 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.

Regional Board Decision 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 one of the applicable water quality standards is not being exceeded and the minimum sample number requirements of the Listing Policy are not met for assessment of compliance with the other standard.

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 8996, Fluoride	Region 6
Holcomb Creek

LOE ID:

5353

Pollutant:

Fluoride

LOE Subgroup:

Pollutant-Water

Matrix:

Water

Fraction:

Dissolved

Beneficial Use:

Municipal & Domestic Supply

Number of Samples:

Number of Exceedances:

Data and Information Type:

Fixed station physical/chemical (conventional plus toxic pollutants)

Data Used to Assess Water Quality:

Data Reference:

2007. SWAMP Data for the Mojave River Watershed

SWAMP Data:

SWAMP

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 fluoride is 2 mg/L (2000 ug/L).

Objective/Criterion Reference:

Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)

Evaluation Guideline:

Guideline Reference:

Spatial Representation:

One station, Holcomb Creek at Crab Flats Road, was sampled.

Temporal Representation:

Two samples were collected in 2001 and none in 2002. Three samples were collected in 2003 and three in 2004. Two samples were collected in 2005.

Environmental Conditions:

Holcomb Creek is a tributary of Deep Creek, the largest tributary of the Mojave River, located in San Bernardino National Forest. Its headwaters are located north of Big Bear Lake.

QAPP Information:

The data meet the quality assurance requirements of the SWAMP QAPP.

QAPP Information Reference(s):

Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 8996, Fluoride	Region 6
Holcomb Creek

LOE ID:

5352

Pollutant:

Fluoride

LOE Subgroup:

Pollutant-Water

Matrix:

Water

Fraction:

Dissolved

Beneficial Use:

Cold Freshwater 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:

The U.S. Geological Survey sampled Holcomb Creek under the Region 6 SWAMP program between 2001 and 2005. Of 10 fluoride samples, two were estimated values and one was below the detection level. The remaining samples ranged from 0.6 to 5.3 mg/L. No data were collected in 2002, and two of four annual averages were estimated values. The average for 2001 (based on a single sample) exceeded the objective.

Data Reference:

2007. SWAMP Data for the Mojave River Watershed

SWAMP Data:

SWAMP

Water Quality Objective/Criterion:

The applicable site specific objectives from Lahontan Basin Plan Table 3-21 include an annual average of 0.1 mg/L fluoride and a 90th percentile value of 0.19 mg/L.

Objective/Criterion Reference:

Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)

Evaluation Guideline:

Guideline Reference:

Spatial Representation:

One station, Holcomb Creek at Crab Flats Road, was sampled.

Temporal Representation:

Two samples were collected in 2001 and none in 2002. Three samples were collected in 2003 and three in 2004. Two samples were collected in 2005.

Environmental Conditions:

Holcomb Creek is a tributary of Deep Creek, the largest tributary of the Mojave River, located in San Bernardino National Forest. Its headwaters are located north of Big Bear Lake.

QAPP Information:

The data meet the quality assurance requirements of the SWAMP QAPP.

QAPP Information Reference(s):


DECISION ID	9000	Region 6
Holcomb Creek

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

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. One line of evidence is available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. None of the samples exceed the water quality objective. Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is sufficient justification against placing this water segment-pollutant combination on the section 303(d) list in the Water Quality Limited Segments category. This conclusion is based on the staff findings that: 1. The data used satisfy the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy. 2. The data used do not satisfy the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy. Quarterly samples do not capture the seasonal and annual variability expected in streamflows and constituent concentrations in streams of the Lahontan Region. 3. None of 13 samples exceeded the California Maximum Contaminant Level 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:	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.

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 9000, Nitrate/Nitrite (Nitrite + Nitrate as N)	Region 6
Holcomb Creek

LOE ID:

8266

Pollutant:

Nitrate/Nitrite (Nitrite + Nitrate as N)

LOE Subgroup:

Pollutant-Water

Matrix:

Water

Fraction:

Dissolved

Beneficial Use:

Municipal & Domestic Supply

Number of Samples:

Number of Exceedances:

Data and Information Type:

Fixed station physical/chemical (conventional plus toxic pollutants)

Data Used to Assess Water Quality:

The U.S. Geological Survey collected quarterly samples under the Region 6 SWAMP program between 2001 and 2005. Of 13 samples, 5 were below the detection level, two were estimated values, and 6 had nitrite plus nitrite concentrations ranging from 0.001 to 0.003 mg/L. The MCL was not exceeded.

Data Reference:

2007. SWAMP Data for the Mojave River Watershed

SWAMP Data:

SWAMP

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, expressed "as nitrogen."

Objective/Criterion Reference:

Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)

Evaluation Guideline:

Guideline Reference:

Spatial Representation:

One station, Holcomb Creek at Crab Flats Road, was sampled.

Temporal Representation:

Thirteen quarterly samples (1 to 3 samples per year) were collected between 2001 and 2005.

Environmental Conditions:

Holcomb Creek is a tributary of Deep Creek, the largest tributary of the Mojave River, located in San Bernardino National Forest. Its headwaters are located north of Big Bear Lake.

QAPP Information:

The data meet the quality assurance requirements of the SWAMP QAPP.

QAPP Information Reference(s):


DECISION ID	9001	Region 6
Holcomb Creek

Pollutant:	Nitrite as Nitrite NO2
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

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. 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 13 samples exceeded the California Maximum Contaminant Level 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:	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.

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 9001, Nitrite as Nitrite NO2	Region 6
Holcomb Creek

LOE ID:

8265

Pollutant:

Nitrite as Nitrite NO2

LOE Subgroup:

Pollutant-Water

Matrix:

Water

Fraction:

Dissolved

Beneficial Use:

Municipal & Domestic Supply

Number of Samples:

Number of Exceedances:

Data and Information Type:

Fixed station physical/chemical (conventional plus toxic pollutants)

Data Used to Assess Water Quality:

The U.S. Geological Survey collected quarterly samples under the Region 6 SWAMP program between 2001 and 2005. Of 13 samples, 6 were below the detection level, one was an estimate, and 6 had nitrite concentrations of 0.001 mg/L. The MCL was not exceeded.

Data Reference:

2007. SWAMP Data for the Mojave River Watershed

SWAMP Data:

SWAMP

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 is 1 mg/L.

Objective/Criterion Reference:

Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)

Evaluation Guideline:

Guideline Reference:

Spatial Representation:

One station, Holcomb Creek at Crab Flats Road, was sampled.

Temporal Representation:

Thirteen quarterly samples (1 to 3 samples per year) were collected between 2001 and 2005.

Environmental Conditions:

Holcomb Creek is a tributary of Deep Creek, the largest tributary of the Mojave River, located in San Bernardino National Forest. Its headwaters are located north of Big Bear Lake.

QAPP Information:

The data meet the quality assurance requirements of the SWAMP QAPP.

QAPP Information Reference(s):


DECISION ID	7723	Region 6
Holcomb Creek

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

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. One line of evidence is available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. None of the samples exceed the water quality objective. Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is sufficient justification against placing this water segment-pollutant combination on the section 303(d) list in the Water Quality Limited Segments category. This conclusion is based on the staff findings that: 1. The data used satisfy the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy. 2. The data used do not satisfy the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy. Quarterly samples do not capture the diel, seasonal and annual variability expected in streamflows and dissolved oxygen concentrations in streams of the Lahontan Region. 3. None of 12 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.

Regional Board Decision 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.

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 7723, Oxygen, Dissolved	Region 6
Holcomb Creek

LOE ID:

5817

Pollutant:

Oxygen, Dissolved

LOE Subgroup:

Pollutant-Water

Matrix:

Water

Fraction:

Dissolved

Beneficial Use:

Cold Freshwater 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:

The U.S. Geological Survey sampled Holcomb Creek quarterly under the Region 6 SWAMP program between July 2001 and July 2005. Twelve dissolved oxygen measurements ranged from 5.1 to 11.1 mg/L. The 1-day minimum objective was not violated.

Data Reference:

2007. SWAMP Data for the Mojave River Watershed

SWAMP Data:

SWAMP

Water Quality Objective/Criterion:

The water quality objective from Lahontan Basin Plan Table 3-6 for waters designated for the COLD beneficial use but not the SPWN use is a 1-day minimum dissolved oxygen concentration of 4 mg/L.

Objective/Criterion Reference:

Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)

Evaluation Guideline:

Guideline Reference:

Spatial Representation:

One station, Holcomb Creek at Crab Flats Road, was sampled.

Temporal Representation:

Twelve samples (1 to 3 samples per year) were collected between 2001 and 2005.

Environmental Conditions:

Holcomb Creek is a tributary of Deep Creek, the largest tributary of the Mojave River, located in San Bernardino National Forest. Its headwaters are located north of Big Bear Lake.

QAPP Information:

The data meet the quality assurance requirements of the SWAMP QAPP.

QAPP Information Reference(s):


DECISION ID	9007	Region 6
Holcomb Creek

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

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. One line of evidence is available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. None of the annual average datapoints exceed the site-specific water quality objective. Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is sufficient justification against placing this water segment-pollutant combination on the section 303(d) list in the Water Quality Limited Segments category. This conclusion is based on the staff findings that: 1. The data used satisfy the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy. 2. The data used do not satisfy the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy. Quarterly samples do not capture the seasonal and annual variability expected in streamflows and constituent concentrations in streams of the Lahontan Region. 3. None of four annual average samples exceeded the site-specific 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.

Regional Board Decision 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.

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 9007, Phosphate	Region 6
Holcomb Creek

LOE ID:

8270

Pollutant:

Phosphate

LOE Subgroup:

Pollutant-Water

Matrix:

Water

Fraction:

Dissolved

Beneficial Use:

Cold Freshwater 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:

The U.S. Geological Survey collected quarterly chloride samples under the Region 6 SWAMP program between 2002 and 2005. Of eleven samples for phosphate "as P," two were estimated values and three were below the detection level. Concentrations in the remaining samples ranged from 0.002 to 0.008 mg/L. Eleven calculations were done for orthophosphate "as phosphate." These samples included two estimated and three below detection level values; the remaining samples ranged from 0.006 to 0.025 mg/L. The annual average objective was not exceeded.

Two additional samples for dissolved hydrolyzable P plus PO4 (as P) include one below detection level value and one concentration of 0.02 mg/L.

Data Reference:

2007. SWAMP Data for the Mojave River Watershed

SWAMP Data:

SWAMP

Water Quality Objective/Criterion:

The site-specific objective for dissolved orthophosphate (for Station 5 in Lahontan Basin Plan Table 3-21) includes an annual average of 0.05 mg/L and a 90th percentile value of 0.13 mg/L.

Objective/Criterion Reference:

Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)

Evaluation Guideline:

Guideline Reference:

Spatial Representation:

One station, Holcomb Creek at Crab Flats Road, was sampled.

Temporal Representation:

Thirteen samples (2 to 3 samples per year) were collected and analyzed for phosphate between 2001 and 2005. Two addtional samples collected in October 2001 and February 2002 were analyzed for dissolved hydrolyzable P plus PO4

Environmental Conditions:

Holcomb Creek is a tributary of Deep Creek, the largest tributary of the Mojave River, located in San Bernardino National Forest. Its headwaters are located north of Big Bear Lake.

QAPP Information:

The data meet the quality assurance requirements of the SWAMP QAPP.

QAPP Information Reference(s):


DECISION ID	9005	Region 6
Holcomb Creek

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

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. One line of evidence is available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. No biological data are 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 do not satisfy the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy due to an error in the SWAMP QAPP regarding holding times for total phosphorus samples. 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. No biological data are available for use with the 9 chemical samples to determine whether they exceed the water quality objective for biostimulatory substances. 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:	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 is a quality assurance problem with the chemical data and no biological data are available for assessment of compliance with the applicable water quality objective.

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 9005, Phosphorus	Region 6
Holcomb Creek

LOE ID:

8269

Pollutant:

Phosphorus

LOE Subgroup:

Pollutant-Water

Matrix:

Water

Fraction:

Total

Beneficial Use:

Cold Freshwater 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:

The U.S. Geological Survey sampled Holcomb Creek under the Region 6 SWAMP program between 2002 and 2005. Of 9 samples, one was an estimated value and two were below the detection level. Concentrations in the remaining samples ranged from 0.011 to 0.017 mg/L. No biological data are available for assessment of compliance with the objective for biostimulatory substances.

Data Reference:

2007. SWAMP Data for the Mojave River Watershed

SWAMP Data:

SWAMP

Water Quality Objective/Criterion:

The Lahontan Basin Plan does not include a site-specific objective for total phosphorus in Holcomb Creek. The Basin Plan's narrative 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:

Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)

Evaluation Guideline:

Guideline Reference:

Spatial Representation:

One station, Holcomb Creek at Crab Flats Road, was sampled.

Temporal Representation:

Nine quarterly samples (1 to 3 samples per year) were collected between 2002 and 2005.

Environmental Conditions:

Holcomb Creek is a tributary of Deep Creek, the largest tributary of the Mojave River, located in San Bernardino National Forest. Its headwaters are located north of Big Bear Lake.

QAPP Information:

.Sampling and analysis were done according to the SWAMP QAPP. However, in July 2009 an error was discovered in the QAPP related to holding times for total phosphorus samples that affects the validity of data for the Lahontan Region The holding time for samples that are not acid-preserved.should be 48 hours rather than 28 days as indicated in the QAPP. "Low level" phosphorus analyses, without acid preservation, are used in the Lahontan Region's SWAMP program. .

QAPP Information Reference(s):


DECISION ID	7607	Region 6
Holcomb Creek

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

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. One line of evidence is available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. None of the samples exceed the water quality objective. Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is sufficient justification against placing this water segment-pollutant combination on the section 303(d) list in the Water Quality Limited Segments category. This conclusion is based on the staff findings that: 1. The data used satisfy the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy. 2. The data used do not satisfy the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy. Quarterly samples do not capture the seasonal and annual variability expected in streamflows and dissolved ion concentrations in streams of the Lahontan Region. 3. None of 12 samples exceeded the 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.

Regional Board Decision 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.

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 7607, Specific Conductance	Region 6
Holcomb Creek

LOE ID:

5360

Pollutant:

Specific Conductance

LOE Subgroup:

Pollutant-Water

Matrix:

Water

Fraction:

None

Beneficial Use:

Municipal & Domestic Supply

Number of Samples:

Number of Exceedances:

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 between 2001 and 2005. Twelve laboratory measurements of specific conductance ranged from 61 to 305 uS/cm. Five field measurements ranged from 94 to 309 uS/cm. The MCL was not violated.

Data Reference:

2007. SWAMP Data for the Mojave River Watershed

SWAMP Data:

SWAMP

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:

Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)

Evaluation Guideline:

Guideline Reference:

Spatial Representation:

One station, Holcomb Creek at Crab Flats Road, was sampled.

Temporal Representation:

Twleve laboratory measurements of specific conductance were taken on quarterly samples collected between 2001 and 2005. Five additional field measurements were taken between 2001 and 2003.

Environmental Conditions:

Holcomb Creek is a tributary of Deep Creek, the largest tributary of the Mojave River, located in San Bernardino National Forest. Its headwaters are located north of Big Bear Lake.

QAPP Information:

The data meet the quality assurance requirements of the SWAMP QAPP.

QAPP Information Reference(s):


DECISION ID	7805	Region 6
Holcomb Creek

Pollutant:	Sulfates
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

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. None of the thirteen individual samples exceed the Maximum Contaminant Level but four of five annual average datapoints exceed the site-specific water quality objective. Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is sufficient justification against placing this water segment-pollutant combination on the section 303(d) list in the Water Quality Limited Segments category. This conclusion is based on the staff findings that: 1. The data used satisfy the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy. 2. The data used do not satisfy the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy. Quarterly samples do not capture the seasonal and annual variability expected in streamflows and constituent concentrations in streams of the Lahontan Region. 3. None of 13 individual samples exceeded the MCL. Four of five annual average datapoints (based on only 1 to 3 samples per year) exceeded the site-specific 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.

Regional Board Decision 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.

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 7805, Sulfates	Region 6
Holcomb Creek

LOE ID:

5363

Pollutant:

Sulfates

LOE Subgroup:

Pollutant-Water

Matrix:

Water

Fraction:

Dissolved

Beneficial Use:

Cold Freshwater 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:

The U.S. Geological Survey collected quarterly sulfate samples under the Region 6 SWAMP program between 2001 and 2005. Sulfate concentrations in 13 samples ranged from an estimated 0.1 mg/L to 3.7 mg/L. The annual average objective was violated in 4 of 5 years.

Data Reference:

2007. SWAMP Data for the Mojave River Watershed

SWAMP Data:

SWAMP

Water Quality Objective/Criterion:

The applicable site-specific objective is that for Deep Creek Station 5, from Lahontan Basin Plan Table 3-21. The objective includes an annual average of 1.3 mg/L and a 90th percentile value of 4.9 mg/L.

Objective/Criterion Reference:

Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)

Evaluation Guideline:

Guideline Reference:

Spatial Representation:

One station, Holcomb Creek at Crab Flats Road, was sampled.

Temporal Representation:

Thirteen samples (1 to 3 samples per year) were collected between 2001 and 2005.

Environmental Conditions:

Holcomb Creek is a tributary of Deep Creek, the largest tributary of the Mojave River, located in San Bernardino National Forest. Its headwaters are located north of Big Bear Lake.

QAPP Information:

The data meet the quality assurance requirements of the SWAMP QAPP.

QAPP Information Reference(s):

Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 7805, Sulfates	Region 6
Holcomb Creek

LOE ID:

5362

Pollutant:

Sulfates

LOE Subgroup:

Pollutant-Water

Matrix:

Water

Fraction:

Dissolved

Beneficial Use:

Municipal & Domestic Supply

Number of Samples:

Number of Exceedances:

Data and Information Type:

Fixed station physical/chemical (conventional plus toxic pollutants)

Data Used to Assess Water Quality:

Data Reference:

2007. SWAMP Data for the Mojave River Watershed

SWAMP Data:

SWAMP

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 sulfate is 250 mg/L.

Objective/Criterion Reference:

Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)

Evaluation Guideline:

Guideline Reference:

Spatial Representation:

One station, Holcomb Creek at Crab Flats Road, was sampled.

Temporal Representation:

Thirteen quarterly samples (1 to 3 samples per year) were collected between 2001 and 2005.

Environmental Conditions:

Holcomb Creek is a tributary of Deep Creek, the largest tributary of the Mojave River, located in San Bernardino National Forest. Its headwaters are located north of Big Bear Lake.

QAPP Information:

The data meet the quality assurance requirements of the SWAMP QAPP.

QAPP Information Reference(s):


DECISION ID	7702	Region 6
Holcomb Creek

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

Regional Board Conclusion:	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.

Regional Board Decision 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 Sections 3.10 and 6.1.5.9.

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 7702, Temperature, water	Region 6
Holcomb Creek

LOE ID:

5367

Pollutant:

Temperature, water

LOE Subgroup:

Pollutant-Water

Matrix:

Water

Fraction:

None

Beneficial Use:

Cold Freshwater 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:

The U.S. Geological Survey measured water temperature under the Region 6 SWAMP program between 2001 and 2005. Temperatures in 13 measurements ranged from 2 to 18.5 degrees Celsius. There are insufficient data available to document the natural temperature regime or to determine whether change has occurred

Data Reference:

2007. SWAMP Data for the Mojave River Watershed

SWAMP Data:

SWAMP

Water Quality Objective/Criterion:

The relevant language from the Lahontan Basin Plan's temperature objective is: "The natural receiving water temperature of al l 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."

Objective/Criterion Reference:

Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)

Evaluation Guideline:

Guideline Reference:

Spatial Representation:

One station, Holcomb Creek at Crab Flats Road, was sampled.

Temporal Representation:

Thirteen quarterly measurements of water temperature (1 to 3 per year) were taken between 2001 and 2005.

Environmental Conditions:

Holcomb Creek is a tributary of Deep Creek, the largest tributary of the Mojave River, located in San Bernardino National Forest. Its headwaters are located north of Big Bear Lake.

QAPP Information:

The data meet the quality assurance requirements of the SWAMP QAPP.

QAPP Information Reference(s):


DECISION ID	9002	Region 6
Holcomb Creek

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

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. One line of evidence is available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. No biological data are available for assessment of compliance with the 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 whether the 13 chemical samples exceeded the water quality objective. 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:	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 whether the chemical data comply with the applicable objective.

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 9002, Total Kjeldahl Nitrogen (TKN)	Region 6
Holcomb Creek

LOE ID:

8267

Pollutant:

Total Kjeldahl Nitrogen (TKN)

LOE Subgroup:

Pollutant-Water

Matrix:

Water

Fraction:

Total

Beneficial Use:

Cold Freshwater 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:

The U.S. Geological Survey sampled Holcomb Creek under the Region 6 SWAMP program between 2001 and 2005. Of 13 samples for TKN, three were estimated values and one was below the detection level. Concentrations in the remaining samples ranged from 0.08 to 0.25 mg/L. No biological data are available for assessment of compliance with the objective for biostimulatory substances.

Data Reference:

2007. SWAMP Data for the Mojave River Watershed

SWAMP Data:

SWAMP

Water Quality Objective/Criterion:

The Lahontan Basin Plan does not include a site-specific objective for Total Kjeldahl Nitrogen (TKN) in Holcomb Creek. The Basin Plan's narrative 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:

Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)

Evaluation Guideline:

Guideline Reference:

Spatial Representation:

One station, Holcomb Creek at Crab Flats Road, was sampled.

Temporal Representation:

Thirteen quarterly samples (1 to 3 samples per year) were collected between 2001 and 2005.

Environmental Conditions:

Holcomb Creek is a tributary of Deep Creek, the largest tributary of the Mojave River, located in San Bernardino National Forest. Its headwaters are located north of Big Bear Lake.

QAPP Information:

The data meet the quality assurance requirements of the SWAMP QAPP.

QAPP Information Reference(s):


DECISION ID	9004	Region 6
Holcomb Creek

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

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. One line of evidence is available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. None of the annual average datapoints exceed the water quality objective. Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is sufficient justification against placing this water segment-pollutant combination on the section 303(d) list in the Water Quality Limited Segments category. This conclusion is based on the staff findings that: 1. The data used satisfy the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy. 2. The data used do not satisfy the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy. Quarterly samples do not capture the seasonal and annual variability expected in streamflows and constituent concentrations in streams of the Lahontan Region. 3. None of 5 annual average datapoints exceeded the site-secific 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.

Regional Board Decision 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.

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 9004, Total Nitrogen as N	Region 6
Holcomb Creek

LOE ID:

8268

Pollutant:

Total Nitrogen as N

LOE Subgroup:

Pollutant-Water

Matrix:

Water

Fraction:

Total

Beneficial Use:

Cold Freshwater 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:

The U.S. Geological Survey sampled Holcomb Creek under the Region 6 SWAMP program between 2001 and 2005. Total nitrogen was calculated from total Kjeldahl nitrogen and nitrate plus nitrite. Six of 13 calculated total nitrogen concentrations were estimated values, due to estimated values or below detection level values in the components. Concentrations in the remaining sample ranged from 0.081 to 0.251 mg/L. The annual average objective was not exceeded.

Data Reference:

2007. SWAMP Data for the Mojave River Watershed

SWAMP Data:

SWAMP

Water Quality Objective/Criterion:

The site-specific objective for total nitrogen (for Station 5 in Lahontan Basin Plan Table 3-21) includes an annual average of 0.3 mg/L and a 90th percentile value of 0.7 mg/L.

Objective/Criterion Reference:

Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)

Evaluation Guideline:

Guideline Reference:

Spatial Representation:

One station, Holcomb Creek at Crab Flats Road, was sampled.

Temporal Representation:

Thirteen quarterly samples each (1 to 3 samples per year) were collected for total Kjeldahl nitrogen and nitrate plus nitrite between 2001 and 2005. Thirteen calculations of total nitrogen concentrations were done.

Environmental Conditions:

Holcomb Creek is a tributary of Deep Creek, the largest tributary of the Mojave River, located in San Bernardino National Forest. Its headwaters are located north of Big Bear Lake.

QAPP Information:

The data meet the quality assurance requirements of the SWAMP QAPP.

QAPP Information Reference(s):


DECISION ID	8997	Region 6
Holcomb Creek

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

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

Regional Board Decision 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 available data are insufficient to document baseline and trend conditions as required under Section 3.10 of the Listing Policy.

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 8997, pH	Region 6
Holcomb Creek

LOE ID:

5359

Pollutant:

LOE Subgroup:

Pollutant-Water

Matrix:

Water

Fraction:

None

Beneficial Use:

Cold Freshwater 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:

The U.S. Geological Survey measured pH under the Region 6 SWAMP program between 2001 and 2005. In 13 measurements, pH values ranged from 7.4 to 8.3 units.

Data Reference:

2007. SWAMP Data for the Mojave River Watershed

SWAMP Data:

SWAMP

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. SWAMP Data for the Mojave River Watershed

Evaluation Guideline:

Guideline Reference:

Spatial Representation:

One station, Holcomb Creek at Crab Flats Road, was sampled.

Temporal Representation:

Thirteen quarterly pH measurements (1 to 3 per year) were collected between 2001 and 2005.

Environmental Conditions:

Holcomb Creek is a tributary of Deep Creek, the largest tributary of the Mojave River, located in San Bernardino National Forest. Its headwaters are located north of Big Bear Lake.

QAPP Information:

The data meet the quality assurance requirements of the SWAMP QAPP.

QAPP Information Reference(s):


DECISION ID	8998	Region 6
Holcomb Creek

Pollutant:	Total Dissolved Solids
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:	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. None of the samples exceeds the California Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL). Five out of five annual average datapoints (with averages based on only 1-3 samples per year) exceed the site-specific water quality objective. Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is sufficient justification against placing this water segment-pollutant combination on the section 303(d) list in the Water Quality Limited Segments category. This conclusion is based on the staff findings that: 1. The data used satisfy the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy. 2. The data used do not satisfy the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy. Quarterly samples do not capture the full range of seasonal and annual variability in streamflows and constituent concentrations expected in streams of the Lahontan Region. 3. None of 13 samples exceeded the MCL and this does not exceed the allowable frequency listed in Table 3.2 of the Listing Policy. Five of five annual average datapoints exceeded the site-specific objective and this exceeds the allowable frequency listed in Table 3.2. 4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met. State Board Review and Conclusion: The April 19, 2010 State Water Board staff report for the 2010 Integrated Report recommended to place this water body on the 303(d) list for total dissolved solids based on the State Water Board staff determination that the data were collected over a broad period of time to meet section 6.1.5.3 of the Listing Policy. The State Water Board recommendation is based on the following: Lahontan Regional Board staff decided not to list this water body because staff thought it had insufficient information to make a decision to list. However, State Board staff finds there are 5 samples to make a decision and this meets the sample size requirements of Table 3.2 of the Listing Policy. On August 4, 2010 the State Water Board approved the staff recommendation to place this water body-pollutant combination on the 303(d) list. The final language for the recommendation is: 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 satisfy the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy. 2. The data used satisfy the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy. 3. None of 13 samples exceeded the MCL and this does not exceed the allowable frequency listed in Table 3.2 of the Listing Policy. Five of five annual average datapoints exceeded the site-specific objective and this exceeds the allowable frequency listed in Table 3.2. 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:	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, although one of the applicable standards is being exceeded, the data are not temporally representative.

State Board Review of Regional Board Conclusion and Recommendation:

State Board Decision Recommendation:	After review of this Regional Board decision, SWRCB staff recommend the following changes to the decision: The water body-pollutant combination should be placed on the section 303(d) list because applicable water quality standards for the pollutant are being exceeded.

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 8998, Total Dissolved Solids	Region 6
Holcomb Creek

LOE ID:

5365

Pollutant:

Total Dissolved Solids

LOE Subgroup:

Pollutant-Water

Matrix:

Water

Fraction:

Total Dissolved

Beneficial Use:

Cold Freshwater 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:

The U.S. Geological Survey collected quarterly TDS samples under the Region 6 SWAMP program between 2001 and 2005. Total dissolved solids concentrations in 13 samples ranged from 70 to 190 mg/L. The annual average objective was exceeded in 5 out of 5 years.

Data Reference:

2007. SWAMP Data for the Mojave River Watershed

SWAMP Data:

SWAMP

Water Quality Objective/Criterion:

The applicable site-specific objective is that for Deep Creek Station 5, from Lahontan Basin Plan Table 3-21. It includes an annual average TDS of 83 mg/L and a 90th percentile value of 123 mg/L.

Objective/Criterion Reference:

Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)

Evaluation Guideline:

Guideline Reference:

Spatial Representation:

One station, Holcomb Creek at Crab Flats Road, was sampled.

Temporal Representation:

Thirteen quarterly samples (1 to 3 samples per year) were collected between 2001 and 2005.

Environmental Conditions:

Holcomb Creek is a tributary of Deep Creek, the largest tributary of the Mojave River, located in San Bernardino National Forest. Its headwaters are located north of Big Bear Lake.

QAPP Information:

The data meet the quality assurance requirements of the SWAMP QAPP.

QAPP Information Reference(s):

Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 8998, Total Dissolved Solids	Region 6
Holcomb Creek

LOE ID:

5364

Pollutant:

Total Dissolved Solids

LOE Subgroup:

Pollutant-Water

Matrix:

Water

Fraction:

Total Dissolved

Beneficial Use:

Municipal & Domestic Supply

Number of Samples:

Number of Exceedances:

Data and Information Type:

Fixed station physical/chemical (conventional plus toxic pollutants)

Data Used to Assess Water Quality:

Data Reference:

2007. SWAMP Data for the Mojave River Watershed

SWAMP Data:

SWAMP

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 total dissolved solids (TDS) is 500 mg/L.

Objective/Criterion Reference:

Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)

Evaluation Guideline:

Guideline Reference:

Spatial Representation:

One station, Holcomb Creek at Crab Flats Road, was sampled.

Temporal Representation:

Thirteen quarterly samples (1 to 3 samples per year) were collected between 2001 and 2005.

Environmental Conditions:

Holcomb Creek is a tributary of Deep Creek, the largest tributary of the Mojave River, located in San Bernardino National Forest. Its headwaters are located north of Big Bear Lake.

QAPP Information:

The data meet the quality assurance requirements of the SWAMP QAPP.

QAPP Information Reference(s):