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

Supporting Information

Regional Board 9 - San Diego Region

Water Body Name: Pacific Ocean Shoreline, Laguna Beach HSA, at Laguna Hotel
Water Body ID: CAC9011200020090505105553
Water Body Type: Coastal & Bay Shoreline
 
DECISION ID
16858
Region 9     
Pacific Ocean Shoreline, Laguna Beach HSA, at Laguna Hotel
 
Pollutant: Enterococcus
Final Listing Decision: Delist from 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: New Decision
Revision Status Revised
Reason for Delisting: Applicable WQS attained; reason for recovery unspecified
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: This pollutant is being considered for removal from the section 303(d) list under section 4.2 of the Listing Policy. Under this section a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status.

Four lines of evidence are available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. Eighty of the samples exceed the water quality objective for enterococcus.

In LOE 29287, the Regional Board calculated exceedances for samples taken only during storm events. This information was not used in determining listing decisions, but is of interest to the Regional Board and has been included as additional anecdotal information.

The coastal beach at this water segment is identified as an AB411 beach. To comply with the requirements of AB411 the dry weather data collected during the time frame of April 1st to October 31st is assessed using a four percent exceedance percentage, as described in section 3.3 (and 4.3) of the Listing Policy. An assessment for the geometric mean calculation was conducted and one additional line of evidence is available in the administrative record. None of 56 geometric mean calculations exceeded the criteria for recreational use and this does not exceed the allowable limit based on the application of a four percent exceedance percentage (AB411) to section 4.3 of the Listing Policy.

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

This conclusion is based on the staff findings that:
1. The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy.
2. The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy.
3. Eighty of 919 samples exceeded the enterococcus water quality objective and this does not exceed the allowable frequency listed in Table 4.2 of the Listing Policy.
5. None of 56 dry weather geometric mean calculations exceeded the enterococcus criteria for recreational use and this does not exceed the allowable limit (at a four percent exceedance percentage - AB411) in section 4.3 of the Listing Policy.
4. Pursuant to section 4.11 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 be removed from the section 303(d) list because applicable water quality standards for the pollutant 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 16858, Enterococcus
Region 9     
Pacific Ocean Shoreline, Laguna Beach HSA, at Laguna Hotel
 
LOE ID: 29285
 
Pollutant: Enterococcus
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Water Contact Recreation
 
Number of Samples: 108
Number of Exceedances: 12
 
Data and Information Type: PWS pathogen monitoring (ambient water)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Beach monitoring data was collected by the County of Orange from January 1999 through December 2007. A total of 919 single samples were collected and 108 geomeans calculated. Of the 108 geomeans, 12 exceeded the geomean water quality objective.
Data Reference: Ocean Bacteriological Data Evaluation for City of Laguna Beach, 1999 through 2006, Final Report
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Single Sample Maximum: Enterococcus density shall not exceed 104 per 100 ml;

Geomean: Enterococcus density shall not exceed 35 per 100 ml (SWRCB, 2005).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan Ocean Waters of California. California Ocean Plan 2005. Sacramento, CA: State Water Resources Control Board, California Environmental Protection Agency
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Samples were collected from Laguna Hotel (the projection of the hotel), station id S16, in the Laguna HSA. Lat/Long: 33.54087/-117.78361.
Temporal Representation: Samples were collected weekly from January 1999 through December 2007; however, rainfall data is only available from March 2002 through December 2007.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Quality control for the bacteria analysis portion of this study was conducted in accordance with the County of Orange Quality Assessment/Quality Control document.
QAPP Information Reference(s): County of Orange. Quality Assurance/Quality Control Manual, February 2004 Bacteria specific
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 16858, Enterococcus
Region 9     
Pacific Ocean Shoreline, Laguna Beach HSA, at Laguna Hotel
 
LOE ID: 31096
 
Pollutant: Enterococcus
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Water Contact Recreation
 
Number of Samples: 56
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PWS pathogen monitoring (ambient water)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Orange County collected Beach monitoring data within the time period from January 1999 through December 2006.
A total of 56 monthly geomeans were calculated for data collected during the time frame of April 1st to October 31st (AB411 data) within the aforementioned time period. Of the 56 geomeans zero exceeded the geomean water quality objective.
Data Reference: Ocean Bacteriological Data Evaluation for City of Laguna Beach, 1999 through 2006, Final Report
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Geomean: Enterococcus density shall not exceed 35 per 100 ml within any 30 day period (SWRCB, 2005).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan Ocean Waters of California. California Ocean Plan 2005. Sacramento, CA: State Water Resources Control Board, California Environmental Protection Agency
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Samples were collected from Laguna Hotel (the projection of the hotel), station id S16, in the Laguna HSA. Lat/Long: 33.54087/-117.78361.
Temporal Representation: Samples were collected at least once a week within the time period from January 1999 through December 2006.
The data assessed is AB411 data which is data collected during the time frame of April 1st to October 31st (summer months) within the aforementioned time period.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Quality control for the bacteria analysis portion of this study was conducted in accordance with the County of Orange Quality Assessment/Quality Control document.
QAPP Information Reference(s): County of Orange. Quality Assurance/Quality Control Manual, February 2004 Bacteria specific
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 16858, Enterococcus
Region 9     
Pacific Ocean Shoreline, Laguna Beach HSA, at Laguna Hotel
 
LOE ID: 29323
 
Pollutant: Indicator Bacteria
LOE Subgroup: Health Advisories
Matrix: -N/A
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Water Contact Recreation
 
Number of Samples: 2555
Number of Exceedances: 204
 
Data and Information Type: PWS pathogen monitoring (ambient water)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: For the period from January 2000 to December 2006, there were and 204 beach postings days for this section of shoreline. Bacteriological samples are collected on a weekly basis at approximately 150 ocean and bay location in Orange County. When a bacteriological sample exceeds water quality standards, signs are posted indicating that waters have exceeded public health standards.

Data and information on the number of beach posting were summarized by the County of Orange in their Annual Ocean and Bay Water Quality Report, March 2007. The reporting period was from January 2000 -December 2006. Data used was the number of days the beach was posting when the ocean or bay failed to meet the bacteriological standards.
Data Reference: County of Orange. March 2007. Annual Ocean and Bay Water Quality Report, 2006
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: California Code of Regulations. Title 17, Section 7960.

(a) When a public beach or public water-contact sports area fails to meet any of the standards as set forth in Section 7957 or 7958 above, the local health officer or the Department, after taking into consideration the causes therefor, may at his or its discretion close, post with warning signs, or otherwise restrict use of said public beach or public water-contact sports area, until such time as corrective action has been taken and the standards as set forth in 7957 and 7958 above are met.
Objective/Criterion Reference: California Code of Regulations, Title 17, Section 7960
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Bacteriological monitoring samples were collected at Aliso Beach and South Laguna Beach in Orange County, California. Beaches included Emerald Bay, Crescent Bay, Laguna Main Beach, Hotel Laguna, Bluebird Canyon, Victoria Beach and Blue Lagoon. The posting covers 4.4 miles of beach shoreline.
Temporal Representation: The beach posting covers the time frame of January 2000 -December 2006.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Samples were collected in compliance with County of Orange's Quality Assessment/Quality Control document (County of Orange, 2004).
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 16858, Enterococcus
Region 9     
Pacific Ocean Shoreline, Laguna Beach HSA, at Laguna Hotel
 
LOE ID: 29289
 
Pollutant: Enterococcus
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Water Contact Recreation
 
Number of Samples: 919
Number of Exceedances: 80
 
Data and Information Type: PWS pathogen monitoring (ambient water)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Beach monitoring data was collected by the County of Orange from January 1999 through December 2007. A total of 919 single samples were collected with 80 samples exceeding the single sample water quality objective.
Data Reference: Ocean Bacteriological Data Evaluation for City of Laguna Beach, 1999 through 2006, Final Report
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Single Sample Maximum: Enterococcus density shall not exceed 104 per 100 ml;

Geomean: Enterococcus density shall not exceed 35 per 100 ml (SWRCB, 2005).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan Ocean Waters of California. California Ocean Plan 2005. Sacramento, CA: State Water Resources Control Board, California Environmental Protection Agency
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Samples were collected from Laguna Hotel (the projection of the hotel), station id S16, in the Laguna HSA. Lat/Long: 33.54087/-117.78361.
Temporal Representation: Samples were collected weekly from January 1999 through December 2007; however, rainfall data is only available from March 2002 through December 2007.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Quality control for the bacteria analysis portion of this study was conducted in accordance with the County of Orange Quality Assessment/Quality Control document.
QAPP Information Reference(s): County of Orange. Quality Assurance/Quality Control Manual, February 2004 Bacteria specific
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 16858, Enterococcus
Region 9     
Pacific Ocean Shoreline, Laguna Beach HSA, at Laguna Hotel
 
LOE ID: 29287
 
Pollutant: Enterococcus
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Water Contact Recreation
 
Number of Samples: 51
Number of Exceedances: 20
 
Data and Information Type: PWS pathogen monitoring (ambient water)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Beach monitoring data was collected by the County of Orange from January 1999 through December 2007. A total of 919 single samples were collected with 51 samples were correlated with a storm event. Of the 51 samples, 20 exceeded the single sample water quality objective. This information will not be used in determining a listing decision, but is of interest to the Regional Board and has been included here as additional anecdotal information.
Data Reference: Ocean Bacteriological Data Evaluation for City of Laguna Beach, 1999 through 2006, Final Report
  National Weather Service Forecast Office, San Diego, California, Chronological Regional Temperature and Precipitation Listings by Station
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Single Sample Maximum: Enterococcus density shall not exceed 104 per 100 ml;

Geomean: Enterococcus density shall not exceed 35 per 100 ml (SWRCB, 2005).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan Ocean Waters of California. California Ocean Plan 2005. Sacramento, CA: State Water Resources Control Board, California Environmental Protection Agency
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Samples were collected from Laguna Hotel (the projection of the hotel), station id S16, in the Laguna HSA. Lat/Long: 33.54087/-117.78361.
Temporal Representation: Samples were collected weekly from January 1999 through December 2007; however, rainfall data is only available from March 2002 through December 2007.
Environmental Conditions: Comparisons were made for all data and data associated with storm events. A storm event was defined as 0.2 inches of rainfall within a 72 hour period.

Analyzing only storm water bacteria data is important because the majority of beach monitoring data covers the months of April through October. The data may not capture the full impacts of seasonal storm events and high bacteria levels due to storm water runoff because much of the wet season for Southern California occurs in November through March.
QAPP Information: Quality control for the bacteria analysis portion of this study was conducted in accordance with the County of Orange Quality Assessment/Quality Control document.
QAPP Information Reference(s): County of Orange. Quality Assurance/Quality Control Manual, February 2004 Bacteria specific
 
 
DECISION ID
16857
Region 9     
Pacific Ocean Shoreline, Laguna Beach HSA, at Laguna Hotel
 
Pollutant: Fecal Coliform
Final Listing Decision: Delist from 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: New Decision
Revision Status Revised
Reason for Delisting: Applicable WQS attained; reason for recovery unspecified
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: This pollutant is being considered for removal from the section 303(d) list under section 4.3 of the Listing Policy. Under this section a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status.

Four lines of evidence are available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. Thirteen of the samples exceed the water quality objective fecal coliform water quality objective.

In LOE 29302, the Regional Board calculated exceedances for samples taken only during storm events. This information was not used in determining listing decisions, but is of interest to the Regional Board and has been included as additional anecdotal information.

The coastal beach at this water segment is identified as an AB411 beach. To comply with the requirements of AB411 the dry weather data collected during the time frame of April 1st to October 31st is assessed using a four percent exceedance percentage, as described in section 3.3 (and 4.3) of the Listing Policy. An assessment for the geometric mean calculation was conducted and one additional line of evidence is available in the administrative record. None of 56 geometric mean calculations exceeded the criteria for recreational use and this does not exceed the allowable limit based on the application of a four percent exceedance percentage (AB411) to section 4.3 of the Listing Policy.


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

This conclusion is based on the staff findings that:
1. The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy.
2. The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy.
3. Thirteen of 919 samples exceeded the fecal coliform water quality objective and this does not exceed the allowable frequency listed in Table 4.2 of the Listing Policy.
4. None of 56 dry weather geometric mean calculations exceeded the total coliform criteria for recreational use and this does not exceed the allowable limit (at a four percent exceedance percentage - AB411) in section 4.3 of the Listing Policy.
5. Pursuant to section 4.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.
 
Regional Board Decision Recommendation: After review of the available data and information, RWQCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should be removed from the section 303(d) list because applicable water quality standards for the pollutant are not being exceeded.
 
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 16857, Fecal Coliform
Region 9     
Pacific Ocean Shoreline, Laguna Beach HSA, at Laguna Hotel
 
LOE ID: 29323
 
Pollutant: Indicator Bacteria
LOE Subgroup: Health Advisories
Matrix: -N/A
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Water Contact Recreation
 
Number of Samples: 2555
Number of Exceedances: 204
 
Data and Information Type: PWS pathogen monitoring (ambient water)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: For the period from January 2000 to December 2006, there were and 204 beach postings days for this section of shoreline. Bacteriological samples are collected on a weekly basis at approximately 150 ocean and bay location in Orange County. When a bacteriological sample exceeds water quality standards, signs are posted indicating that waters have exceeded public health standards.

Data and information on the number of beach posting were summarized by the County of Orange in their Annual Ocean and Bay Water Quality Report, March 2007. The reporting period was from January 2000 -December 2006. Data used was the number of days the beach was posting when the ocean or bay failed to meet the bacteriological standards.
Data Reference: County of Orange. March 2007. Annual Ocean and Bay Water Quality Report, 2006
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: California Code of Regulations. Title 17, Section 7960.

(a) When a public beach or public water-contact sports area fails to meet any of the standards as set forth in Section 7957 or 7958 above, the local health officer or the Department, after taking into consideration the causes therefor, may at his or its discretion close, post with warning signs, or otherwise restrict use of said public beach or public water-contact sports area, until such time as corrective action has been taken and the standards as set forth in 7957 and 7958 above are met.
Objective/Criterion Reference: California Code of Regulations, Title 17, Section 7960
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Bacteriological monitoring samples were collected at Aliso Beach and South Laguna Beach in Orange County, California. Beaches included Emerald Bay, Crescent Bay, Laguna Main Beach, Hotel Laguna, Bluebird Canyon, Victoria Beach and Blue Lagoon. The posting covers 4.4 miles of beach shoreline.
Temporal Representation: The beach posting covers the time frame of January 2000 -December 2006.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Samples were collected in compliance with County of Orange's Quality Assessment/Quality Control document (County of Orange, 2004).
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 16857, Fecal Coliform
Region 9     
Pacific Ocean Shoreline, Laguna Beach HSA, at Laguna Hotel
 
LOE ID: 29300
 
Pollutant: Fecal Coliform
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Water Contact Recreation
 
Number of Samples: 919
Number of Exceedances: 13
 
Data and Information Type: PWS pathogen monitoring (ambient water)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Beach monitoring data was collected by the County of Orange from January 1999 through December 2007. A total of 919 single samples were collected with 13 samples exceeding the single sample water quality objective.
Data Reference: Ocean Bacteriological Data Evaluation for City of Laguna Beach, 1999 through 2006, Final Report
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Single Sample Maximum: Fecal coliform density shall not exceed 400 per 100 ml;

Geomean: Fecal coliform density shall not exceed 200 per 100ml (SWRCB, 2005).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan Ocean Waters of California. California Ocean Plan 2005. Sacramento, CA: State Water Resources Control Board, California Environmental Protection Agency
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Samples were collected from Laguna Hotel (the projection of the hotel), station id S16, in the Laguna HSA. Lat/Long: 33.54087/-117.78361.
Temporal Representation: Samples were collected weekly from January 1999 through December 2007; however, rainfall data is only available from March 2002 through December 2007.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Quality control for the bacteria analysis portion of this study was conducted in accordance with the County of Orange Quality Assessment/Quality Control document.
QAPP Information Reference(s): County of Orange. Quality Assurance/Quality Control Manual, February 2004 Bacteria specific
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 16857, Fecal Coliform
Region 9     
Pacific Ocean Shoreline, Laguna Beach HSA, at Laguna Hotel
 
LOE ID: 31095
 
Pollutant: Fecal Coliform
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Water Contact Recreation
 
Number of Samples: 56
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PWS pathogen monitoring (ambient water)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Orange County collected Beach monitoring data within the time period from January 1999 through December 2006.
A total of 56 monthly geomeans were calculated for data collected during the time frame of April 1st to October 31st (AB411 data) within the aforementioned time period. Of the 56 geomeans zero exceeded the geomean water quality objective.
Data Reference: Ocean Bacteriological Data Evaluation for City of Laguna Beach, 1999 through 2006, Final Report
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Geomean: Fecal coliform density shall not exceed 200 per 100ml within any 30 day period (SWRCB, 2005).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan Ocean Waters of California. California Ocean Plan 2005. Sacramento, CA: State Water Resources Control Board, California Environmental Protection Agency
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Samples were collected from Laguna Hotel (the projection of the hotel), station id S16, in the Laguna HSA. Lat/Long: 33.54087/-117.78361.
Temporal Representation: Samples were collected at least once a week within the time period from January 1999 through December 2006.
The data assessed is AB411 data which is data collected during the time frame of April 1st to October 31st (summer months) within the aforementioned time period.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Quality control for the bacteria analysis portion of this study was conducted in accordance with the County of Orange Quality Assessment/Quality Control document.
QAPP Information Reference(s): County of Orange. Quality Assurance/Quality Control Manual, February 2004 Bacteria specific
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 16857, Fecal Coliform
Region 9     
Pacific Ocean Shoreline, Laguna Beach HSA, at Laguna Hotel
 
LOE ID: 29302
 
Pollutant: Fecal Coliform
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Water Contact Recreation
 
Number of Samples: 51
Number of Exceedances: 3
 
Data and Information Type: PWS pathogen monitoring (ambient water)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Beach monitoring data was collected by the County of Orange January 1999 through December 2007. A total of 919 single samples were collected. Between March 2002 and December 2007, 51 samples were correlated with a storm event. Of those 51 samples, three exceeded the single sample water quality objective. This information will not be used in determining a listing decision, but is of interest to the Regional Board and has been included here as additional anecdotal information.
Data Reference: Ocean Bacteriological Data Evaluation for City of Laguna Beach, 1999 through 2006, Final Report
  National Weather Service Forecast Office, San Diego, California, Chronological Regional Temperature and Precipitation Listings by Station
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Single Sample Maximum: Fecal coliform density shall not exceed 400 per 100 ml;

Geomean: Fecal coliform density shall not exceed 200 per 100ml (SWRCB, 2005).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan Ocean Waters of California. California Ocean Plan 2005. Sacramento, CA: State Water Resources Control Board, California Environmental Protection Agency
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Samples were collected from Laguna Hotel (the projection of the hotel), station id S16, in the Laguna HSA. Lat/Long: 33.54087/-117.78361.
Temporal Representation: Samples were collected weekly from January 1999 through December 2007; however, rainfall data is only available from March 2002 through December 2007.
Environmental Conditions: Comparisons were made for all data and data associated with storm events. A storm event was defined as 0.2 inches of rainfall within a 72 hour period.

Analyzing only storm water bacteria data is important because the majority of beach monitoring data covers the months of April through October. The data may not capture the full impacts of seasonal storm events and high bacteria levels due to storm water runoff because much of the wet season for Southern California occurs in November through March.
QAPP Information: Quality control for the bacteria analysis portion of this study was conducted in accordance with the County of Orange Quality Assessment/Quality Control document.
QAPP Information Reference(s): County of Orange. Quality Assurance/Quality Control Manual, February 2004 Bacteria specific
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 16857, Fecal Coliform
Region 9     
Pacific Ocean Shoreline, Laguna Beach HSA, at Laguna Hotel
 
LOE ID: 29301
 
Pollutant: Fecal Coliform
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Water Contact Recreation
 
Number of Samples: 108
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PWS pathogen monitoring (ambient water)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Beach monitoring data was collected by the County of Orange from January 1999 through December 2007. A total of 919 single samples were collected with 108 monthly geomeans calculated. Of those 108 geomeans, none exceeded the geomean water quality objective.
Data Reference: Ocean Bacteriological Data Evaluation for City of Laguna Beach, 1999 through 2006, Final Report
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Single Sample Maximum: Fecal coliform density shall not exceed 400 per 100 ml;

Geomean: Fecal coliform density shall not exceed 200 per 100ml (SWRCB, 2005).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan Ocean Waters of California. California Ocean Plan 2005. Sacramento, CA: State Water Resources Control Board, California Environmental Protection Agency
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Samples were collected from Laguna Hotel (the projection of the hotel), station id S16, in the Laguna HSA. Lat/Long: 33.54087/-117.78361.
Temporal Representation: Samples were collected weekly from January 1999 through December 2007; however, rainfall data is only available from March 2002 through December 2007.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Quality control for the bacteria analysis portion of this study was conducted in accordance with the County of Orange Quality Assessment/Quality Control document.
QAPP Information Reference(s): County of Orange. Quality Assurance/Quality Control Manual, February 2004 Bacteria specific
 
 
DECISION ID
16856
Region 9     
Pacific Ocean Shoreline, Laguna Beach HSA, at Laguna Hotel
 
Pollutant: Total Coliform
Final Listing Decision: Delist from 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: New Decision
Revision Status Revised
Reason for Delisting: Applicable WQS attained; reason for recovery unspecified
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: This pollutant is being considered for removal from the section 303(d) list under section 4.2 of the Listing Policy. Under this section a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status.

Six lines of evidence are available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. One hundred-thirteen of 918 samples exceed the water quality objective for Shellfish Harvesting.

In LOEs 29274 and 29299, the Regional Board calculated exceedances for samples taken only during storm events. This information was not used in determining listing decisions, but is of interest to the Regional Board and has been included as additional anecdotal information.

The coastal beach at this water segment is identified as an AB411 beach. To comply with the requirements of AB411 the dry weather data collected during the time frame of April 1st to October 31st is assessed using a four percent exceedance percentage, as described in section 3.3 (and 4.3) of the Listing Policy. An assessment for the geometric mean calculation was conducted and one additional line of evidence is available in the administrative record. Seven of 56 geometric mean calculations exceeded the criteria for recreational use and this does not exceed the allowable limit based on the application of a four percent exceedance percentage (AB411) to section 4.3 of the Listing Policy.

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

This conclusion is based on the staff findings that:
1. The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy.
2. The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy.
3. One hundred-thirteen of 918 samples exceeded the Shellfish Harvesting water quality objective and this does not exceed the allowable frequency listed in Table 4.2 of the Listing Policy.
5. Seven of 56 dry weather geometric mean calculations exceeded the total coliform criteria for recreational use and this does not exceed the allowable limit (at a four percent exceedance percentage - AB411) in section 4.3 of the Listing Policy.
5. Pursuant to section 4.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.
 
Regional Board Decision Recommendation: After review of the available data and information, RWQCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should be removed from the section 303(d) list because applicable water quality standards for the pollutant are not being exceeded.
 
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 16856, Total Coliform
Region 9     
Pacific Ocean Shoreline, Laguna Beach HSA, at Laguna Hotel
 
LOE ID: 29297
 
Pollutant: Total Coliform
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Water Contact Recreation
 
Number of Samples: 918
Number of Exceedances: 4
 
Data and Information Type: PWS pathogen monitoring (ambient water)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Beach monitoring data was collected by the County of Orange from January 1999 through December 2007. A total of 918 single samples were collected with 4 samples exceeding the single sample water quality objective.
Data Reference: Ocean Bacteriological Data Evaluation for City of Laguna Beach, 1999 through 2006, Final Report
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Single Sample Maximum: Total coliform density shall not exceed 10,000 per 100ml;

Geomean: Total coliform density shall not exceed 1,000 per 100ml (SWRCB, 2005).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan Ocean Waters of California. California Ocean Plan 2005. Sacramento, CA: State Water Resources Control Board, California Environmental Protection Agency
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Samples were collected from Laguna Hotel (the projection of the hotel), station id S16, in the Laguna HSA. Lat/Long: 33.54087/-117.78361.
Temporal Representation: Samples were collected weekly from January 1999 through December 2007; however, rainfall data is only available from March 2002 through December 2007.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Quality control for the bacteria analysis portion of this study was conducted in accordance with the County of Orange Quality Assessment/Quality Control document.
QAPP Information Reference(s): County of Orange. Quality Assurance/Quality Control Manual, February 2004 Bacteria specific
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 16856, Total Coliform
Region 9     
Pacific Ocean Shoreline, Laguna Beach HSA, at Laguna Hotel
 
LOE ID: 29298
 
Pollutant: Total Coliform
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Water Contact Recreation
 
Number of Samples: 108
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PWS pathogen monitoring (ambient water)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Beach monitoring data was collected by the County of Orange from January 1999 through December 2007. A total of 918 single samples with 108 monthly geomeans calculated. Of the 108 geomeans, none exceeded the geomean water quality objective.
Data Reference: Ocean Bacteriological Data Evaluation for City of Laguna Beach, 1999 through 2006, Final Report
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Single Sample Maximum: Total coliform density shall not exceed 10,000 per 100ml;

Geomean: Total coliform density shall not exceed 1,000 per 100ml (SWRCB, 2005).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan Ocean Waters of California. California Ocean Plan 2005. Sacramento, CA: State Water Resources Control Board, California Environmental Protection Agency
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Samples were collected from Laguna Hotel (the projection of the hotel), station id S16, in the Laguna HSA. Lat/Long: 33.54087/-117.78361.
Temporal Representation: Samples were collected weekly from January 1999 through December 2007; however, rainfall data is only available from March 2002 through December 2007.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Quality control for the bacteria analysis portion of this study was conducted in accordance with the County of Orange Quality Assessment/Quality Control document.
QAPP Information Reference(s): County of Orange. Quality Assurance/Quality Control Manual, February 2004 Bacteria specific
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 16856, Total Coliform
Region 9     
Pacific Ocean Shoreline, Laguna Beach HSA, at Laguna Hotel
 
LOE ID: 29274
 
Pollutant: Total Coliform
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Shellfish Harvesting
 
Number of Samples: 51
Number of Exceedances: 28
 
Data and Information Type: PWS pathogen monitoring (ambient water)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Beach monitoring data was collected by the County of Orange from January 1999 through December 2007. A total of 918 single samples were collected. Between March 2002 and December 2007, 51 samples were correlated with a storm event. Of those 51 samples, 28 exceeded the single sample water quality objective. This information will not be used in determining a listing decision, but is of interest to the Regional Board and has been included here as additional anecdotal information.
Data Reference: Ocean Bacteriological Data Evaluation for City of Laguna Beach, 1999 through 2006, Final Report
  National Weather Service Forecast Office, San Diego, California, Chronological Regional Temperature and Precipitation Listings by Station
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: From the Ocean Plan, the median total coliform density shall not exceed 70 per 100 ml, and not more than 10 percent of the samples shall exceed 230 per 100 ml (SWRCB, 2005).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan Ocean Waters of California. California Ocean Plan 2005. Sacramento, CA: State Water Resources Control Board, California Environmental Protection Agency
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Samples were collected from Laguna Hotel (the projection of the hotel), station id S16, in the Laguna HSA. Lat/Long: 33.54087/-117.78361.
Temporal Representation: Samples were collected weekly from January 1999 through December 2007; however, rainfall data is only available from March 2002 through December 2007.
Environmental Conditions: Comparisons were made for all data and data associated with storm events. A storm event was defined as 0.2 inches of rainfall within a 72 hour period.

Analyzing only storm water bacteria data is important because the majority of beach monitoring data covers the months of April through October. The data may not capture the full impacts of seasonal storm events and high bacteria levels due to storm water runoff because much of the wet season for Southern California occurs in November through March.
QAPP Information: Quality control for the bacteria analysis portion of this study was conducted in accordance with the County of Orange Quality Assessment/Quality Control document.
QAPP Information Reference(s): County of Orange. Quality Assurance/Quality Control Manual, February 2004 Bacteria specific
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 16856, Total Coliform
Region 9     
Pacific Ocean Shoreline, Laguna Beach HSA, at Laguna Hotel
 
LOE ID: 29299
 
Pollutant: Total Coliform
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Water Contact Recreation
 
Number of Samples: 51
Number of Exceedances: 3
 
Data and Information Type: PWS pathogen monitoring (ambient water)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Beach monitoring data was collected by the County of Orange from January 1999 through December 2007. A total of 918 single samples. Between March 2002 and December 2007, 51 samples were correlated with a storm event. Of those 51 samples, 3 exceeded the single sample water quality objective. This information will not be used in determining a listing decision, but is of interest to the Regional Board and has been included here as additional anecdotal information.
Data Reference: Ocean Bacteriological Data Evaluation for City of Laguna Beach, 1999 through 2006, Final Report
  National Weather Service Forecast Office, San Diego, California, Chronological Regional Temperature and Precipitation Listings by Station
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Single Sample Maximum: Total coliform density shall not exceed 10,000 per 100ml;

Geomean: Total coliform density shall not exceed 1,000 per 100ml (SWRCB, 2005).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan Ocean Waters of California. California Ocean Plan 2005. Sacramento, CA: State Water Resources Control Board, California Environmental Protection Agency
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Samples were collected from Laguna Hotel (the projection of the hotel), station id S16, in the Laguna HSA. Lat/Long: 33.54087/-117.78361.
Temporal Representation: Samples were collected weekly from January 1999 through December 2007; however, rainfall data is only available from March 2002 through December 2007.
Environmental Conditions: Comparisons were made for all data and data associated with storm events. A storm event was defined as 0.2 inches of rainfall within a 72 hour period.

Analyzing only storm water bacteria data is important because the majority of beach monitoring data covers the months of April through October. The data may not capture the full impacts of seasonal storm events and high bacteria levels due to storm water runoff because much of the wet season for Southern California occurs in November through March.
QAPP Information: Quality control for the bacteria analysis portion of this study was conducted in accordance with the County of Orange Quality Assessment/Quality Control document.
QAPP Information Reference(s): County of Orange. Quality Assurance/Quality Control Manual, February 2004 Bacteria specific
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 16856, Total Coliform
Region 9     
Pacific Ocean Shoreline, Laguna Beach HSA, at Laguna Hotel
 
LOE ID: 29323
 
Pollutant: Indicator Bacteria
LOE Subgroup: Health Advisories
Matrix: -N/A
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Water Contact Recreation
 
Number of Samples: 2555
Number of Exceedances: 204
 
Data and Information Type: PWS pathogen monitoring (ambient water)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: For the period from January 2000 to December 2006, there were and 204 beach postings days for this section of shoreline. Bacteriological samples are collected on a weekly basis at approximately 150 ocean and bay location in Orange County. When a bacteriological sample exceeds water quality standards, signs are posted indicating that waters have exceeded public health standards.

Data and information on the number of beach posting were summarized by the County of Orange in their Annual Ocean and Bay Water Quality Report, March 2007. The reporting period was from January 2000 -December 2006. Data used was the number of days the beach was posting when the ocean or bay failed to meet the bacteriological standards.
Data Reference: County of Orange. March 2007. Annual Ocean and Bay Water Quality Report, 2006
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: California Code of Regulations. Title 17, Section 7960.

(a) When a public beach or public water-contact sports area fails to meet any of the standards as set forth in Section 7957 or 7958 above, the local health officer or the Department, after taking into consideration the causes therefor, may at his or its discretion close, post with warning signs, or otherwise restrict use of said public beach or public water-contact sports area, until such time as corrective action has been taken and the standards as set forth in 7957 and 7958 above are met.
Objective/Criterion Reference: California Code of Regulations, Title 17, Section 7960
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Bacteriological monitoring samples were collected at Aliso Beach and South Laguna Beach in Orange County, California. Beaches included Emerald Bay, Crescent Bay, Laguna Main Beach, Hotel Laguna, Bluebird Canyon, Victoria Beach and Blue Lagoon. The posting covers 4.4 miles of beach shoreline.
Temporal Representation: The beach posting covers the time frame of January 2000 -December 2006.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Samples were collected in compliance with County of Orange's Quality Assessment/Quality Control document (County of Orange, 2004).
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 16856, Total Coliform
Region 9     
Pacific Ocean Shoreline, Laguna Beach HSA, at Laguna Hotel
 
LOE ID: 31094
 
Pollutant: Total Coliform
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Water Contact Recreation
 
Number of Samples: 56
Number of Exceedances: 7
 
Data and Information Type: PWS pathogen monitoring (ambient water)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Orange County collected Beach monitoring data within the time period from January 1999 through December 2006.
A total of 56 monthly geomeans were calculated for data collected during the time frame of April 1st to October 31st (AB411 data) within the aforementioned time period. Of the 56 geomeans seven exceeded the geomean water quality objective.
Data Reference: Ocean Bacteriological Data Evaluation for City of Laguna Beach, 1999 through 2006, Final Report
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Geomean: Total coliform density shall not exceed 1,000 per 100ml within any 30 day period (SWRCB, 2005).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan Ocean Waters of California. California Ocean Plan 2005. Sacramento, CA: State Water Resources Control Board, California Environmental Protection Agency
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Samples were collected from Laguna Hotel (the projection of the hotel), station id S16, in the Laguna HSA. Lat/Long: 33.54087/-117.78361.
Temporal Representation: Samples were collected at least once a week within the time period from January 1999 through December 2006.
The data assessed is AB411 data which is data collected during the time frame of April 1st to October 31st (summer months) within the aforementioned time period.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Quality control for the bacteria analysis portion of this study was conducted in accordance with the County of Orange Quality Assessment/Quality Control document.
QAPP Information Reference(s): County of Orange. Quality Assurance/Quality Control Manual, February 2004 Bacteria specific
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 16856, Total Coliform
Region 9     
Pacific Ocean Shoreline, Laguna Beach HSA, at Laguna Hotel
 
LOE ID: 29278
 
Pollutant: Total Coliform
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Shellfish Harvesting
 
Number of Samples: 918
Number of Exceedances: 113
 
Data and Information Type: PWS pathogen monitoring (ambient water)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Beach monitoring data was collected by the County of Orange from January 1999 through December 2007. A total of 918 single samples with 113 samples exceeding the single sample water quality objective.
Data Reference: Ocean Bacteriological Data Evaluation for City of Laguna Beach, 1999 through 2006, Final Report
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: From the Ocean Plan, the median total coliform density shall not exceed 70 per 100 ml, and not more than 10 percent of the samples shall exceed 230 per 100 ml (SWRCB, 2005).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan Ocean Waters of California. California Ocean Plan 2005. Sacramento, CA: State Water Resources Control Board, California Environmental Protection Agency
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Samples were collected from Laguna Hotel (the projection of the hotel), station id S16, in the Laguna HSA. Lat/Long: 33.54087/-117.78361.
Temporal Representation: Samples were collected weekly from January 1999 through December 2007; however, rainfall data is only available from March 2002 through December 2007.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Quality control for the bacteria analysis portion of this study was conducted in accordance with the County of Orange Quality Assessment/Quality Control document.
QAPP Information Reference(s): County of Orange. Quality Assurance/Quality Control Manual, February 2004 Bacteria specific