Final California 2018 Integrated Report (303(d) List/305(b) Report)

Supporting Information

Regional Board 3 - Central Coast Region

Water Body Name: Elkhorn Slough
Water Body ID: CAE3060001419981209073137
Water Body Type: Estuary
 
DECISION ID
74013
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
Pollutant: Oxygen, Dissolved
Final Listing Decision: Do Not Delist from 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: Do Not Delist from 303(d) list (TMDL required list)(2016)
Revision Status Original
Sources: A Source Unknown
Expected TMDL Completion Date: 2018
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: This pollutant is being considered for removal from the CWA 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.

Thirty lines of evidence are available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. Three water quality objectives are assessed. Six hundred forty-four of the 1,645 samples exceeded the Cold Freshwater Habitat water quality objective for dissolved oxygen, 282 of the 1645 samples exceeded the Warm Freshwater Habitat water quality objective for dissolved oxygen and 13 of 49 samples (only the most recent data are compared to this water quality objective) exceed the marine habitat water quality objectives for dissolved oxygen. The Basin Plan general water quality objective for oxygen saturation states that the median value shall not fall below 85% saturation. Furthermore, the oxygen saturation objective is only applied ¿for waters not mentioned by a specific beneficial use¿¿ and this water body is designated for Cold and Warm Freshwater Habitats as well as marine and estuarine habitats. Therefore, the use support rating for this pollutant is set at insufficient information.

Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is sufficient justification against removing this water segment-pollutant combination from the CWA 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. Six hundred forty-four of the 1,645 samples exceeded the Cold Freshwater Habitat water quality objective for dissolved oxygen and this exceeds the allowable frequency listed in Table 4.2 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 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 removed from the section 303(d) list because applicable water quality standards for the pollutant are 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.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 74013, Oxygen, Dissolved
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 15288
 
Pollutant: Oxygen, Dissolved
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
Aquatic Life Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 1554
Number of Exceedances: 614
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Regional Board Staff assessed National Estuarine Research Reserve Monitoring Program (R3_ESNERR) data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 614 of 1554 samples exceed the criterion for Oxygen, Dissolved.
Data Reference: Final Data File used for assessment: ESNERR (Elkhorn Slough National Reserve) Field Data from 2006
  Final Data File used for assessment: ESNERR (Elkhorn Slough National Reserve) Water Quality Data from 2006
  Final Data File used for assessment: ESNERR (Elkhorn Slough National Reserve) Water Quality Data from 94-04
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan, Central Coast Basin, Cold Water Habitat Objective, Chapter III, Section II.A.2 General Objectives for all Inland Surface Waters, Enclosed Bays and Estuaries states the following: The dissolved oxygen concentration shall not be reduced below 7.0 mg/l at any time.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) - Central Coast Region (Region 3)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 12 monitoring sites [ 306ELKAPN - Azevedo Pond, North, 306ELKRBR - Reserve Bridge, 306ELKRSM - Reserve, South Marsh, 306ELKSTB - Strawberry Rd, 306ELKRNM - Reserve, North Marsh, 306ELKKPD - Kirby Park, 306ELKAPC - Azevedo Pond, Central, 306ELKAPS - Azevedo Pond, South, 306ELKHLE - Hudson's Landing East, 306ELKHLW - Hudson's Landing West, 306ELKROK - Rookery Pond, 306ELKCAT - Cattail Swale]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 1/20/1990-10/10/2006.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might effect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: QAPP was adopted for work conducted since 2005. Prior to 2005 no QAPP was in place and data entry was completed by volunteers. Multiple errors were identified in data and were flagged by RB staff (in communication with Elkhorn Slough Program staff) prior to assessment of data.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 74013, Oxygen, Dissolved
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 52859
 
Pollutant: Oxygen, Dissolved
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 47
Number of Exceedances: 13
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Water Board Central Coast Water Board Staff assessed public submissions data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 13 of 47 samples exceed the criterion for Oxygen, Dissolved.
Data Reference: Data from Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve Volunteer Monthly Water Quality Program, Jan. 2007-Jul. 2009
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The dissolved oxygen concentration shall not be reduced below 7.0 mg/l at any time (Basin Plan).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the Central Coastal Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 11 monitoring sites [ 306ELKAPC - Elkhorn Slough at Azevedo Pond, Central , 306ELKAPN - Elkhorn Slough at Azevedo Pond, North , 306ELKAPS - Elkhorn Slough at Azevedo Pond, South , 306ELKCAT - Elkhorn Slough at Cattail Swale , 306ELKHLE - Elkhorn Slough at Hudson's Landing East , 306ELKHLW - Elkhorn Slough at Hudson's Landing West , 306ELKKPD - Elkhorn Slough at Kirby Park Dock , 306ELKRBR - Elkhorn Slough at Reserve Bridge , 306ELKROK - Elkhorn Slough at Rookery Pond , 306ELKRSM - Elkhorn Slough at Reserve, South Marsh (Whistle Stop Lagoon) , 306ELKSTB - Elkhorn Slough at Strawberry Rd ]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 1/8/2007-7/10/2007.
Environmental Conditions: Central Coast Water Board Staff are not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: Data was collected following the Quality Assurance Project Plan for Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve's Volunteer Monthly Water Quality Program. Replicate data were identified in data and were qualified by RB Central Coast Water Board S
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan, Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve Volunteer Monthly Water Quality Program. May 15, 2009, Ver.1.3
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 74013, Oxygen, Dissolved
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 52882
 
Pollutant: Oxygen, Dissolved
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Estuarine Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 47
Number of Exceedances: 13
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Water Board Central Coast Water Board Staff assessed public submissions data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 13 of 47 samples exceed the criterion for Oxygen, Dissolved.
Data Reference: Data from Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve Volunteer Monthly Water Quality Program, Jan. 2007-Jul. 2009
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The dissolved oxygen concentration shall not be reduced below 7.0 mg/l at any time (Basin Plan).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the Central Coastal Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 11 monitoring sites [ 306ELKAPC - Elkhorn Slough at Azevedo Pond, Central , 306ELKAPN - Elkhorn Slough at Azevedo Pond, North , 306ELKAPS - Elkhorn Slough at Azevedo Pond, South , 306ELKCAT - Elkhorn Slough at Cattail Swale , 306ELKHLE - Elkhorn Slough at Hudson's Landing East , 306ELKHLW - Elkhorn Slough at Hudson's Landing West , 306ELKKPD - Elkhorn Slough at Kirby Park Dock , 306ELKRBR - Elkhorn Slough at Reserve Bridge , 306ELKROK - Elkhorn Slough at Rookery Pond , 306ELKRSM - Elkhorn Slough at Reserve, South Marsh (Whistle Stop Lagoon) , 306ELKSTB - Elkhorn Slough at Strawberry Rd ]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 1/8/2007-7/10/2007.
Environmental Conditions: Central Coast Water Board Staff are not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: Data was collected following the Quality Assurance Project Plan for Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve's Volunteer Monthly Water Quality Program. Replicate data were identified in data and were qualified by RB Central Coast Water Board S
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan, Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve Volunteer Monthly Water Quality Program. May 15, 2009, Ver.1.3
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 74013, Oxygen, Dissolved
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 18059
 
Pollutant: Oxygen, Dissolved
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Marine Habitat
Aquatic Life Use: Marine Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 15
Number of Exceedances: 4
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Regional Board Staff assessed Coastal Watershed Council (Snapshot day monitoring) (R3_Snap) data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 4 of 15 samples exceed the criterion for Oxygen, Dissolved.
Data Reference: Final Data File used for assessment: Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Volunteer Monitoring Network Data. 2003-2006
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Water Quality Control Plan, Central Coast Basin, Section II.A.2. Objectives for All Inland Surface Waters, Enclosed Bays, and Estuaries, II.A.2.a states the following: Waters shall not contain concentrations of chemical constituents known to be deleterious to fish or wildlife in excess of limits listed in Table 3-6 (page III-12). Table 3-6 states that the Marine Habitat Objective for dissolved oxygen states that the concentration shall not be reduced below 7.0 mg/l at any time.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) - Central Coast Region (Region 3)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 4 monitoring sites [ 306-ELKHO-34 - Elkhorn Slough, 306-ELKHO-32 - Elkhorn Slough Hudson's Landing, 306-ELKHO-33 - Elkhorn Slough South Marsh Bridge, 306-ELKHO-31 - Elkhorn Slough Kirby Park]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 5/17/2003-5/6/2006. Coastal Watershed Council Snapshot Day Monitoring is conducted annually.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might effect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: State Board approved QAPP. Multiple errors were identified in data and were flagged or fixed by RB staff (in communication with Project staff) prior to assessment of data.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 74013, Oxygen, Dissolved
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 15289
 
Pollutant: Oxygen, Dissolved
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Marine Habitat
Aquatic Life Use: Marine Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 1554
Number of Exceedances: 614
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Regional Board Staff assessed National Estuarine Research Reserve Monitoring Program (R3_ESNERR) data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 614 of 1554 samples exceed the criterion for Oxygen, Dissolved.
Data Reference: Final Data File used for assessment: ESNERR (Elkhorn Slough National Reserve) Field Data from 2006
  Final Data File used for assessment: ESNERR (Elkhorn Slough National Reserve) Water Quality Data from 2006
  Final Data File used for assessment: ESNERR (Elkhorn Slough National Reserve) Water Quality Data from 94-04
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Water Quality Control Plan, Central Coast Basin, Section II.A.2. Objectives for All Inland Surface Waters, Enclosed Bays, and Estuaries, II.A.2.a states the following: Waters shall not contain concentrations of chemical constituents known to be deleterious to fish or wildlife in excess of limits listed in Table 3-6 (page III-12). Table 3-6 states that the Marine Habitat Objective for dissolved oxygen states that the concentration shall not be reduced below 7.0 mg/l at any time.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) - Central Coast Region (Region 3)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 12 monitoring sites [ 306ELKAPN - Azevedo Pond, North, 306ELKRBR - Reserve Bridge, 306ELKRSM - Reserve, South Marsh, 306ELKSTB - Strawberry Rd, 306ELKRNM - Reserve, North Marsh, 306ELKKPD - Kirby Park, 306ELKAPC - Azevedo Pond, Central, 306ELKAPS - Azevedo Pond, South, 306ELKHLE - Hudson's Landing East, 306ELKHLW - Hudson's Landing West, 306ELKROK - Rookery Pond, 306ELKCAT - Cattail Swale]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 1/20/1990-10/10/2006.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might effect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: QAPP was adopted for work conducted since 2005. Prior to 2005 no QAPP was in place and data entry was completed by volunteers. Multiple errors were identified in data and were flagged by RB staff (in communication with Elkhorn Slough Program staff) prior to assessment of data.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 74013, Oxygen, Dissolved
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 12949
 
Pollutant: Oxygen, Dissolved
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Marine Habitat
Aquatic Life Use: Marine Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 3
Number of Exceedances: 2
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Regional Board Staff assessed CCAMP Diurnal Dissolved Oxygen Sampling (DO) data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 2 of 3 samples exceed the criterion for Oxygen, Dissolved.
Data Reference: Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Water Quality Data_file1
  Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Water Quality Data_file2
  Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Water Quality Data_file3
 
SWAMP Data: SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Water Quality Control Plan, Central Coast Basin, Section II.A.2. Objectives for All Inland Surface Waters, Enclosed Bays, and Estuaries, II.A.2.a states the following: Waters shall not contain concentrations of chemical constituents known to be deleterious to fish or wildlife in excess of limits listed in Table 3-6 (page III-12). Table 3-6 states that the Marine Habitat Objective for dissolved oxygen states that the concentration shall not be reduced below 7.0 mg/l at any time.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) - Central Coast Region (Region 3)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 1 monitoring site [ 306ELK-Elkhorn Slough at Kirby Park]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 7/6/1999-10/6/1999. Diurnal monitoring conducted in summer months at all CCAMP monitoring sites.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might effect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: All data was collected following the Standard Operating Procedures and Data Quality Objectives outlined in the SWAMP QAMP, (Puckett, 2002). QA data are included in submission. All data are flagged as appropriate.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 74013, Oxygen, Dissolved
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 12969
 
Pollutant: Oxygen, Dissolved
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Marine Habitat
Aquatic Life Use: Marine Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 24
Number of Exceedances: 11
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Regional Board Staff assessed CCAMP Salinas (Salinas) data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 11 of 24 samples exceed the criterion for Oxygen, Dissolved.
Data Reference: Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Salinas Toxicity data
  Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Water Quality Data_file1
  Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Water Quality Data_file2
  Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Water Quality Data_file3
 
SWAMP Data: SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Water Quality Control Plan, Central Coast Basin, Section II.A.2. Objectives for All Inland Surface Waters, Enclosed Bays, and Estuaries, II.A.2.a states the following: Waters shall not contain concentrations of chemical constituents known to be deleterious to fish or wildlife in excess of limits listed in Table 3-6 (page III-12). Table 3-6 states that the Marine Habitat Objective for dissolved oxygen states that the concentration shall not be reduced below 7.0 mg/l at any time.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) - Central Coast Region (Region 3)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 1 monitoring site [ 306ELK-Elkhorn Slough at Kirby Park]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 3/1/1999-12/18/2006. Salinas watershed is one of five annual rotation areas that are monitored for conventional pollutants by CCAMP staff monthly for one year. Toxicity monitoring is conducted twice during the rotation year (winter and summer) at a subset of sites.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might effect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: All data was collected following the Standard Operating Procedures and Data Quality Objectives outlined in the SWAMP QAMP, (Puckett, 2002). QA data are included in submission. All data are flagged as appropriate.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 74013, Oxygen, Dissolved
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 50110
 
Pollutant: Oxygen, Dissolved
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 2
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Water Board Staff assessed public submissions data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 2 samples exceed the criterion for Oxygen, Dissolved.
Data Reference: Salinas Rotation field data 2007
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The dissolved oxygen concentration shall not be reduced below 5.0 mg/l at any time (Basin Plan).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Data for Various Pollutants in Westside San Joaquin Water Quality Coalition, 2004-2009.
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 1 monitoring site [ 306ELK-Elkhorn Slough at Kirby Park]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 1/16/2007-2/20/2007.
Environmental Conditions: Central Coast Water Board Staff are not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: All data was collected following the Standard Operating Procedures and Data Quality Objectives outlined in the SWAMP QAMP, (Puckett, 2002). All data are flagged as appropriate.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Management Plan for the State of California's Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program. Sacramento, CA. State Water Resources Control Board. SWAMP. December 2002 (1st version)
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 74013, Oxygen, Dissolved
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 15290
 
Pollutant: Oxygen, Dissolved
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
Aquatic Life Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 1554
Number of Exceedances: 271
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Regional Board Staff assessed National Estuarine Research Reserve Monitoring Program (R3_ESNERR) data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 271 of 1554 samples exceed the criterion for Oxygen, Dissolved.
Data Reference: Final Data File used for assessment: ESNERR (Elkhorn Slough National Reserve) Field Data from 2006
  Final Data File used for assessment: ESNERR (Elkhorn Slough National Reserve) Water Quality Data from 2006
  Final Data File used for assessment: ESNERR (Elkhorn Slough National Reserve) Water Quality Data from 94-04
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan, Central Coast Basin, General Objective, Chapter III, Section II.A.2 General Objectives for all Inland Surface Waters, Enclosed Bays and Estuaries states the following: For waters not mentioned by a specific beneficial use, dissolved oxygen concentration shall not be reduced below 5.0 mg/l at any time.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) - Central Coast Region (Region 3)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 12 monitoring sites [ 306ELKAPN - Azevedo Pond, North, 306ELKRBR - Reserve Bridge, 306ELKRSM - Reserve, South Marsh, 306ELKSTB - Strawberry Rd, 306ELKRNM - Reserve, North Marsh, 306ELKKPD - Kirby Park, 306ELKAPC - Azevedo Pond, Central, 306ELKAPS - Azevedo Pond, South, 306ELKHLE - Hudson's Landing East, 306ELKHLW - Hudson's Landing West, 306ELKROK - Rookery Pond, 306ELKCAT - Cattail Swale]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 1/20/1990-10/10/2006.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might effect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: QAPP was adopted for work conducted since 2005. Prior to 2005 no QAPP was in place and data entry was completed by volunteers. Multiple errors were identified in data and were flagged by RB staff (in communication with Elkhorn Slough Program staff) prior to assessment of data.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 74013, Oxygen, Dissolved
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 12984
 
Pollutant: Oxygen, Dissolved
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
Aquatic Life Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 24
Number of Exceedances: 1
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Regional Board Staff assessed CCAMP Salinas (Salinas) data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 1 of 24 samples exceed the criterion for Oxygen, Dissolved.
Data Reference: Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Salinas Toxicity data
  Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Water Quality Data_file1
  Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Water Quality Data_file2
  Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Water Quality Data_file3
 
SWAMP Data: SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan, Central Coast Basin, General Objective, Chapter III, Section II.A.2 General Objectives for all Inland Surface Waters, Enclosed Bays and Estuaries states the following: For waters not mentioned by a specific beneficial use, dissolved oxygen concentration shall not be reduced below 5.0 mg/l at any time.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) - Central Coast Region (Region 3)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 1 monitoring site [ 306ELK-Elkhorn Slough at Kirby Park]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 3/1/1999-12/18/2006. Salinas watershed is one of five annual rotation areas that are monitored for conventional pollutants by CCAMP staff monthly for one year. Toxicity monitoring is conducted twice during the rotation year (winter and summer) at a subset of sites.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might effect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: All data was collected following the Standard Operating Procedures and Data Quality Objectives outlined in the SWAMP QAMP, (Puckett, 2002). QA data are included in submission. All data are flagged as appropriate.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 74013, Oxygen, Dissolved
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 52898
 
Pollutant: Oxygen, Dissolved
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 47
Number of Exceedances: 8
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Water Board Central Coast Water Board Staff assessed public submissions data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 8 of 47 samples exceed the criterion for Oxygen, Dissolved.
Data Reference: Data from Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve Volunteer Monthly Water Quality Program, Jan. 2007-Jul. 2009
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The dissolved oxygen concentration shall not be reduced below 5.0 mg/l at any time (Basin Plan).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the Central Coastal Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 11 monitoring sites [ 306ELKAPC - Elkhorn Slough at Azevedo Pond, Central , 306ELKAPN - Elkhorn Slough at Azevedo Pond, North , 306ELKAPS - Elkhorn Slough at Azevedo Pond, South , 306ELKCAT - Elkhorn Slough at Cattail Swale , 306ELKHLE - Elkhorn Slough at Hudson's Landing East , 306ELKHLW - Elkhorn Slough at Hudson's Landing West , 306ELKKPD - Elkhorn Slough at Kirby Park Dock , 306ELKRBR - Elkhorn Slough at Reserve Bridge , 306ELKROK - Elkhorn Slough at Rookery Pond , 306ELKRSM - Elkhorn Slough at Reserve, South Marsh (Whistle Stop Lagoon) , 306ELKSTB - Elkhorn Slough at Strawberry Rd ]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 1/8/2007-7/10/2007.
Environmental Conditions: Central Coast Water Board Staff are not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: Data was collected following the Quality Assurance Project Plan for Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve's Volunteer Monthly Water Quality Program. Replicate data were identified in data and were qualified by RB Central Coast Water Board S
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan, Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve Volunteer Monthly Water Quality Program. May 15, 2009, Ver.1.3
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 74013, Oxygen, Dissolved
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 12950
 
Pollutant: Oxygen, Dissolved
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
Aquatic Life Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 3
Number of Exceedances: 1
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Regional Board Staff assessed CCAMP Diurnal Dissolved Oxygen Sampling (DO) data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 1 of 3 samples exceed the criterion for Oxygen, Dissolved.
Data Reference: Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Water Quality Data_file1
  Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Water Quality Data_file2
  Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Water Quality Data_file3
 
SWAMP Data: SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan, Central Coast Basin, General Objective, Chapter III, Section II.A.2 General Objectives for all Inland Surface Waters, Enclosed Bays and Estuaries states the following: For waters not mentioned by a specific beneficial use, dissolved oxygen concentration shall not be reduced below 5.0 mg/l at any time.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) - Central Coast Region (Region 3)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 1 monitoring site [ 306ELK-Elkhorn Slough at Kirby Park]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 7/6/1999-10/6/1999. Diurnal monitoring conducted in summer months at all CCAMP monitoring sites.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might effect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: All data was collected following the Standard Operating Procedures and Data Quality Objectives outlined in the SWAMP QAMP, (Puckett, 2002). QA data are included in submission. All data are flagged as appropriate.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 74013, Oxygen, Dissolved
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 18060
 
Pollutant: Oxygen, Dissolved
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
Aquatic Life Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 15
Number of Exceedances: 1
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Regional Board Staff assessed Coastal Watershed Council (Snapshot day monitoring) (R3_Snap) data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 1 of 15 samples exceed the criterion for Oxygen, Dissolved.
Data Reference: Final Data File used for assessment: Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Volunteer Monitoring Network Data. 2003-2006
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan, Central Coast Basin, General Objective, Chapter III, Section II.A.2 General Objectives for all Inland Surface Waters, Enclosed Bays and Estuaries states the following: For waters not mentioned by a specific beneficial use, dissolved oxygen concentration shall not be reduced below 5.0 mg/l at any time.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) - Central Coast Region (Region 3)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 4 monitoring sites [ 306-ELKHO-34 - Elkhorn Slough, 306-ELKHO-32 - Elkhorn Slough Hudson's Landing, 306-ELKHO-33 - Elkhorn Slough South Marsh Bridge, 306-ELKHO-31 - Elkhorn Slough Kirby Park]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 5/17/2003-5/6/2006. Coastal Watershed Council Snapshot Day Monitoring is conducted annually.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might effect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: State Board approved QAPP. Multiple errors were identified in data and were flagged or fixed by RB staff (in communication with Project staff) prior to assessment of data.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 74013, Oxygen, Dissolved
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 52849
 
Pollutant: Dissolved oxygen saturation
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 47
Number of Exceedances: 18
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Water Board Central Coast Water Board Staff assessed public submissions data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 18 of 47 samples exceed the criterion for Oxygen, Saturation.
Data Reference: Data from Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve Volunteer Monthly Water Quality Program, Jan. 2007-Jul. 2009
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Median values should not fall below 85% saturation as a result of controllable water quality conditions (Basin Plan).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the Central Coastal Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 11 monitoring sites [ 306ELKAPC - Elkhorn Slough at Azevedo Pond, Central , 306ELKAPN - Elkhorn Slough at Azevedo Pond, North , 306ELKAPS - Elkhorn Slough at Azevedo Pond, South , 306ELKCAT - Elkhorn Slough at Cattail Swale , 306ELKHLE - Elkhorn Slough at Hudson's Landing East , 306ELKHLW - Elkhorn Slough at Hudson's Landing West , 306ELKKPD - Elkhorn Slough at Kirby Park Dock , 306ELKRBR - Elkhorn Slough at Reserve Bridge , 306ELKROK - Elkhorn Slough at Rookery Pond , 306ELKRSM - Elkhorn Slough at Reserve, South Marsh (Whistle Stop Lagoon) , 306ELKSTB - Elkhorn Slough at Strawberry Rd ]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 1/8/2007-7/10/2007.
Environmental Conditions: Central Coast Water Board Staff are not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: Data was collected following the Quality Assurance Project Plan for Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve's Volunteer Monthly Water Quality Program. Replicate data were identified in data and were qualified by RB Central Coast Water Board S
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan, Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve Volunteer Monthly Water Quality Program. May 15, 2009, Ver.1.3
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 74013, Oxygen, Dissolved
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 50056
 
Pollutant: Dissolved oxygen saturation
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 2
Number of Exceedances: 1
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Water Board Staff assessed public submissions data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 1 of 2 samples exceed the criterion for Oxygen, Saturation.
Data Reference: Salinas Rotation field data 2007
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Median values should not fall below 85% saturation as a result of controllable water quality conditions (Basin Plan).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Data for Various Pollutants in Westside San Joaquin Water Quality Coalition, 2004-2009.
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 1 monitoring site [ 306ELK-Elkhorn Slough at Kirby Park]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 1/16/2007-2/20/2007.
Environmental Conditions: Central Coast Water Board Staff are not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: All data was collected following the Standard Operating Procedures and Data Quality Objectives outlined in the SWAMP QAMP, (Puckett, 2002). All data are flagged as appropriate.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Management Plan for the State of California's Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program. Sacramento, CA. State Water Resources Control Board. SWAMP. December 2002 (1st version)
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 74013, Oxygen, Dissolved
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 15343
 
Pollutant: Dissolved oxygen saturation
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
Aquatic Life Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 977
Number of Exceedances: 392
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Regional Board Staff assessed National Estuarine Research Reserve Monitoring Program (R3_ESNERR) data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 392 of 977 samples exceed the criterion for Oxygen, Saturation.
Data Reference: Final Data File used for assessment: ESNERR (Elkhorn Slough National Reserve) Field Data from 2006
  Final Data File used for assessment: ESNERR (Elkhorn Slough National Reserve) Water Quality Data from 2006
  Final Data File used for assessment: ESNERR (Elkhorn Slough National Reserve) Water Quality Data from 94-04
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan, Central Coast Basin, General Objective, Chapter III, Section II.A.2 General Objectives for all Inland Surface Waters, Enclosed Bays and Estuaries states the following: Median values should not fall below 85% saturation as a result of controllable water quality conditions.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) - Central Coast Region (Region 3)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 12 monitoring sites [ 306ELKAPN - Azevedo Pond, North, 306ELKAPC - Azevedo Pond, Central, 306ELKAPS - Azevedo Pond, South, 306ELKRBR - Reserve Bridge, 306ELKRSM - Reserve, South Marsh, 306ELKSTB - Strawberry Rd, 306ELKRNM - Reserve, North Marsh, 306ELKKPD - Kirby Park, 306ELKHLE - Hudson's Landing East, 306ELKHLW - Hudson's Landing West, 306ELKROK - Rookery Pond, 306ELKCAT - Cattail Swale]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 11/18/1996-10/10/2006.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might effect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: QAPP was adopted for work conducted since 2005. Prior to 2005 no QAPP was in place and data entry was completed by volunteers. Multiple errors were identified in data and were flagged by RB staff (in communication with Elkhorn Slough Program staff) prior to assessment of data.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 74013, Oxygen, Dissolved
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 12965
 
Pollutant: Dissolved oxygen saturation
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
Aquatic Life Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 3
Number of Exceedances: 2
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Regional Board Staff assessed CCAMP Diurnal Dissolved Oxygen Sampling (DO) data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 2 of 3 samples exceed the criterion for Oxygen, Saturation.
Data Reference: Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Water Quality Data_file1
  Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Water Quality Data_file2
  Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Water Quality Data_file3
 
SWAMP Data: SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan, Central Coast Basin, General Objective, Chapter III, Section II.A.2 General Objectives for all Inland Surface Waters, Enclosed Bays and Estuaries states the following: Median values should not fall below 85% saturation as a result of controllable water quality conditions.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) - Central Coast Region (Region 3)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 1 monitoring site [ 306ELK-Elkhorn Slough at Kirby Park]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 7/6/1999-10/6/1999. Diurnal monitoring conducted in summer months at all CCAMP monitoring sites.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might effect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: All data was collected following the Standard Operating Procedures and Data Quality Objectives outlined in the SWAMP QAMP, (Puckett, 2002). QA data are included in submission. All data are flagged as appropriate.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 74013, Oxygen, Dissolved
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 12074
 
Pollutant: Dissolved oxygen saturation
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
Aquatic Life Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 24
Number of Exceedances: 13
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Regional Board Staff assessed CCAMP Salinas (Salinas) data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 13 of 24 samples exceed the criterion for Oxygen, Saturation.
Data Reference: Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Salinas Toxicity data
  Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Water Quality Data_file1
  Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Water Quality Data_file2
  Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Water Quality Data_file3
 
SWAMP Data: SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan, Central Coast Basin, General Objective, Chapter III, Section II.A.2 General Objectives for all Inland Surface Waters, Enclosed Bays and Estuaries states the following: Median values should not fall below 85% saturation as a result of controllable water quality conditions.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) - Central Coast Region (Region 3)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 1 monitoring site [ 306ELK-Elkhorn Slough at Kirby Park]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 3/1/1999-12/18/2006. Salinas watershed is one of five annual rotation areas that are monitored for conventional pollutants by CCAMP staff monthly for one year. Toxicity monitoring is conducted twice during the rotation year (winter and summer) at a subset of sites.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might effect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: All data was collected following the Standard Operating Procedures and Data Quality Objectives outlined in the SWAMP QAMP, (Puckett, 2002). QA data are included in submission. All data are flagged as appropriate.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 74013, Oxygen, Dissolved
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 52864
 
Pollutant: Dissolved oxygen saturation
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Estuarine Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 47
Number of Exceedances: 18
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Water Board Central Coast Water Board Staff assessed public submissions data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 18 of 47 samples exceed the criterion for Oxygen, Saturation.
Data Reference: Data from Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve Volunteer Monthly Water Quality Program, Jan. 2007-Jul. 2009
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Median values should not fall below 85% saturation as a result of controllable water quality conditions (Basin Plan).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the Central Coastal Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 11 monitoring sites [ 306ELKAPC - Elkhorn Slough at Azevedo Pond, Central , 306ELKAPN - Elkhorn Slough at Azevedo Pond, North , 306ELKAPS - Elkhorn Slough at Azevedo Pond, South , 306ELKCAT - Elkhorn Slough at Cattail Swale , 306ELKHLE - Elkhorn Slough at Hudson's Landing East , 306ELKHLW - Elkhorn Slough at Hudson's Landing West , 306ELKKPD - Elkhorn Slough at Kirby Park Dock , 306ELKRBR - Elkhorn Slough at Reserve Bridge , 306ELKROK - Elkhorn Slough at Rookery Pond , 306ELKRSM - Elkhorn Slough at Reserve, South Marsh (Whistle Stop Lagoon) , 306ELKSTB - Elkhorn Slough at Strawberry Rd ]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 1/8/2007-7/10/2007.
Environmental Conditions: Central Coast Water Board Staff are not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: Data was collected following the Quality Assurance Project Plan for Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve's Volunteer Monthly Water Quality Program. Replicate data were identified in data and were qualified by RB Central Coast Water Board S
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan, Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve Volunteer Monthly Water Quality Program. May 15, 2009, Ver.1.3
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 74013, Oxygen, Dissolved
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 50071
 
Pollutant: Dissolved oxygen saturation
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Estuarine Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 2
Number of Exceedances: 1
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Water Board Staff assessed public submissions data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 1 of 2 samples exceed the criterion for Oxygen, Saturation.
Data Reference: Salinas Rotation field data 2007
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Median values should not fall below 85% saturation as a result of controllable water quality conditions (Basin Plan).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Data for Various Pollutants in Westside San Joaquin Water Quality Coalition, 2004-2009.
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 1 monitoring site [ 306ELK-Elkhorn Slough at Kirby Park]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 1/16/2007-2/20/2007.
Environmental Conditions: Central Coast Water Board Staff are not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: All data was collected following the Standard Operating Procedures and Data Quality Objectives outlined in the SWAMP QAMP, (Puckett, 2002). All data are flagged as appropriate.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Management Plan for the State of California's Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program. Sacramento, CA. State Water Resources Control Board. SWAMP. December 2002 (1st version)
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 74013, Oxygen, Dissolved
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 50111
 
Pollutant: Dissolved oxygen saturation
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 2
Number of Exceedances: 1
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Water Board Staff assessed public submissions data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 1 of 2 samples exceed the criterion for Oxygen, Saturation.
Data Reference: Salinas Rotation field data 2007
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Median values should not fall below 85% saturation as a result of controllable water quality conditions (Basin Plan).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Data for Various Pollutants in Westside San Joaquin Water Quality Coalition, 2004-2009.
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 1 monitoring site [ 306ELK-Elkhorn Slough at Kirby Park]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 1/16/2007-2/20/2007.
Environmental Conditions: Central Coast Water Board Staff are not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: All data was collected following the Standard Operating Procedures and Data Quality Objectives outlined in the SWAMP QAMP, (Puckett, 2002). All data are flagged as appropriate.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Management Plan for the State of California's Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program. Sacramento, CA. State Water Resources Control Board. SWAMP. December 2002 (1st version)
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 74013, Oxygen, Dissolved
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 52875
 
Pollutant: Dissolved oxygen saturation
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 47
Number of Exceedances: 18
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Water Board Central Coast Water Board Staff assessed public submissions data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 18 of 47 samples exceed the criterion for Oxygen, Saturation.
Data Reference: Data from Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve Volunteer Monthly Water Quality Program, Jan. 2007-Jul. 2009
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Median values should not fall below 85% saturation as a result of controllable water quality conditions (Basin Plan).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the Central Coastal Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 11 monitoring sites [ 306ELKAPC - Elkhorn Slough at Azevedo Pond, Central , 306ELKAPN - Elkhorn Slough at Azevedo Pond, North , 306ELKAPS - Elkhorn Slough at Azevedo Pond, South , 306ELKCAT - Elkhorn Slough at Cattail Swale , 306ELKHLE - Elkhorn Slough at Hudson's Landing East , 306ELKHLW - Elkhorn Slough at Hudson's Landing West , 306ELKKPD - Elkhorn Slough at Kirby Park Dock , 306ELKRBR - Elkhorn Slough at Reserve Bridge , 306ELKROK - Elkhorn Slough at Rookery Pond , 306ELKRSM - Elkhorn Slough at Reserve, South Marsh (Whistle Stop Lagoon) , 306ELKSTB - Elkhorn Slough at Strawberry Rd ]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 1/8/2007-7/10/2007.
Environmental Conditions: Central Coast Water Board Staff are not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: Data was collected following the Quality Assurance Project Plan for Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve's Volunteer Monthly Water Quality Program. Replicate data were identified in data and were qualified by RB Central Coast Water Board S
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan, Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve Volunteer Monthly Water Quality Program. May 15, 2009, Ver.1.3
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 74013, Oxygen, Dissolved
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 12966
 
Pollutant: Dissolved oxygen saturation
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
Aquatic Life Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 3
Number of Exceedances: 2
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Regional Board Staff assessed CCAMP Diurnal Dissolved Oxygen Sampling (DO) data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 2 of 3 samples exceed the criterion for Oxygen, Saturation.
Data Reference: Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Water Quality Data_file1
  Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Water Quality Data_file2
  Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Water Quality Data_file3
 
SWAMP Data: SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan, Central Coast Basin, General Objective, Chapter III, Section II.A.2 General Objectives for all Inland Surface Waters, Enclosed Bays and Estuaries states the following: Median values should not fall below 85% saturation as a result of controllable water quality conditions.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) - Central Coast Region (Region 3)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 1 monitoring site [ 306ELK-Elkhorn Slough at Kirby Park]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 7/6/1999-10/6/1999. Diurnal monitoring conducted in summer months at all CCAMP monitoring sites.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might effect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: All data was collected following the Standard Operating Procedures and Data Quality Objectives outlined in the SWAMP QAMP, (Puckett, 2002). QA data are included in submission. All data are flagged as appropriate.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 74013, Oxygen, Dissolved
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 12089
 
Pollutant: Dissolved oxygen saturation
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
Aquatic Life Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 24
Number of Exceedances: 13
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Regional Board Staff assessed CCAMP Salinas (Salinas) data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 13 of 24 samples exceed the criterion for Oxygen, Saturation.
Data Reference: Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Salinas Toxicity data
  Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Water Quality Data_file1
  Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Water Quality Data_file2
  Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Water Quality Data_file3
 
SWAMP Data: SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan, Central Coast Basin, General Objective, Chapter III, Section II.A.2 General Objectives for all Inland Surface Waters, Enclosed Bays and Estuaries states the following: Median values should not fall below 85% saturation as a result of controllable water quality conditions.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) - Central Coast Region (Region 3)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 1 monitoring site [ 306ELK-Elkhorn Slough at Kirby Park]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 3/1/1999-12/18/2006. Salinas watershed is one of five annual rotation areas that are monitored for conventional pollutants by CCAMP staff monthly for one year. Toxicity monitoring is conducted twice during the rotation year (winter and summer) at a subset of sites.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might effect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: All data was collected following the Standard Operating Procedures and Data Quality Objectives outlined in the SWAMP QAMP, (Puckett, 2002). QA data are included in submission. All data are flagged as appropriate.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 74013, Oxygen, Dissolved
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 15344
 
Pollutant: Dissolved oxygen saturation
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
Aquatic Life Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 977
Number of Exceedances: 392
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Regional Board Staff assessed National Estuarine Research Reserve Monitoring Program (R3_ESNERR) data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 392 of 977 samples exceed the criterion for Oxygen, Saturation.
Data Reference: Final Data File used for assessment: ESNERR (Elkhorn Slough National Reserve) Field Data from 2006
  Final Data File used for assessment: ESNERR (Elkhorn Slough National Reserve) Water Quality Data from 2006
  Final Data File used for assessment: ESNERR (Elkhorn Slough National Reserve) Water Quality Data from 94-04
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan, Central Coast Basin, General Objective, Chapter III, Section II.A.2 General Objectives for all Inland Surface Waters, Enclosed Bays and Estuaries states the following: Median values should not fall below 85% saturation as a result of controllable water quality conditions.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) - Central Coast Region (Region 3)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 12 monitoring sites [ 306ELKAPN - Azevedo Pond, North, 306ELKAPC - Azevedo Pond, Central, 306ELKAPS - Azevedo Pond, South, 306ELKRBR - Reserve Bridge, 306ELKRSM - Reserve, South Marsh, 306ELKSTB - Strawberry Rd, 306ELKRNM - Reserve, North Marsh, 306ELKKPD - Kirby Park, 306ELKHLE - Hudson's Landing East, 306ELKHLW - Hudson's Landing West, 306ELKROK - Rookery Pond, 306ELKCAT - Cattail Swale]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 11/18/1996-10/10/2006.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might effect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: QAPP was adopted for work conducted since 2005. Prior to 2005 no QAPP was in place and data entry was completed by volunteers. Multiple errors were identified in data and were flagged by RB staff (in communication with Elkhorn Slough Program staff) prior to assessment of data.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 74013, Oxygen, Dissolved
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 12948
 
Pollutant: Oxygen, Dissolved
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
Aquatic Life Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 3
Number of Exceedances: 2
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Regional Board Staff assessed CCAMP Diurnal Dissolved Oxygen Sampling (DO) data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 2 of 3 samples exceed the criterion for Oxygen, Dissolved.
Data Reference: Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Water Quality Data_file1
  Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Water Quality Data_file2
  Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Water Quality Data_file3
 
SWAMP Data: SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan, Central Coast Basin, Cold Water Habitat Objective, Chapter III, Section II.A.2 General Objectives for all Inland Surface Waters, Enclosed Bays and Estuaries states the following: The dissolved oxygen concentration shall not be reduced below 7.0 mg/l at any time.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) - Central Coast Region (Region 3)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 1 monitoring site [ 306ELK-Elkhorn Slough at Kirby Park]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 7/6/1999-10/6/1999. Diurnal monitoring conducted in summer months at all CCAMP monitoring sites.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might effect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: All data was collected following the Standard Operating Procedures and Data Quality Objectives outlined in the SWAMP QAMP, (Puckett, 2002). QA data are included in submission. All data are flagged as appropriate.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 74013, Oxygen, Dissolved
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 18058
 
Pollutant: Oxygen, Dissolved
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
Aquatic Life Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 15
Number of Exceedances: 4
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Regional Board Staff assessed Coastal Watershed Council (Snapshot day monitoring) (R3_Snap) data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 4 of 15 samples exceed the criterion for Oxygen, Dissolved.
Data Reference: Final Data File used for assessment: Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Volunteer Monitoring Network Data. 2003-2006
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan, Central Coast Basin, Cold Water Habitat Objective, Chapter III, Section II.A.2 General Objectives for all Inland Surface Waters, Enclosed Bays and Estuaries states the following: The dissolved oxygen concentration shall not be reduced below 7.0 mg/l at any time.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) - Central Coast Region (Region 3)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 4 monitoring sites [ 306-ELKHO-34 - Elkhorn Slough, 306-ELKHO-32 - Elkhorn Slough Hudson's Landing, 306-ELKHO-33 - Elkhorn Slough South Marsh Bridge, 306-ELKHO-31 - Elkhorn Slough Kirby Park]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 5/17/2003-5/6/2006. Coastal Watershed Council Snapshot Day Monitoring is conducted annually.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might effect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: State Board approved QAPP. Multiple errors were identified in data and were flagged or fixed by RB staff (in communication with Project staff) prior to assessment of data.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 74013, Oxygen, Dissolved
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 50055
 
Pollutant: Oxygen, Dissolved
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 2
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Water Board Staff assessed public submissions data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 2 samples exceed the criterion for Oxygen, Dissolved.
Data Reference: Salinas Rotation field data 2007
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The dissolved oxygen concentration shall not be reduced below 7.0 mg/l at any time (Basin Plan).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Data for Various Pollutants in Westside San Joaquin Water Quality Coalition, 2004-2009.
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 1 monitoring site [ 306ELK-Elkhorn Slough at Kirby Park]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 1/16/2007-2/20/2007.
Environmental Conditions: Central Coast Water Board Staff are not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: All data was collected following the Standard Operating Procedures and Data Quality Objectives outlined in the SWAMP QAMP, (Puckett, 2002). All data are flagged as appropriate.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Management Plan for the State of California's Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program. Sacramento, CA. State Water Resources Control Board. SWAMP. December 2002 (1st version)
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 74013, Oxygen, Dissolved
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 12968
 
Pollutant: Oxygen, Dissolved
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
Aquatic Life Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 24
Number of Exceedances: 11
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Regional Board Staff assessed CCAMP Salinas (Salinas) data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 11 of 24 samples exceed the criterion for Oxygen, Dissolved.
Data Reference: Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Salinas Toxicity data
  Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Water Quality Data_file1
  Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Water Quality Data_file2
  Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Water Quality Data_file3
 
SWAMP Data: SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan, Central Coast Basin, Cold Water Habitat Objective, Chapter III, Section II.A.2 General Objectives for all Inland Surface Waters, Enclosed Bays and Estuaries states the following: The dissolved oxygen concentration shall not be reduced below 7.0 mg/l at any time.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) - Central Coast Region (Region 3)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 1 monitoring site [ 306ELK-Elkhorn Slough at Kirby Park]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 3/1/1999-12/18/2006. Salinas watershed is one of five annual rotation areas that are monitored for conventional pollutants by CCAMP staff monthly for one year. Toxicity monitoring is conducted twice during the rotation year (winter and summer) at a subset of sites.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might effect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: All data was collected following the Standard Operating Procedures and Data Quality Objectives outlined in the SWAMP QAMP, (Puckett, 2002). QA data are included in submission. All data are flagged as appropriate.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 74013, Oxygen, Dissolved
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 50070
 
Pollutant: Oxygen, Dissolved
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Estuarine Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 2
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Water Board Staff assessed public submissions data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 2 samples exceed the criterion for Oxygen, Dissolved.
Data Reference: Salinas Rotation field data 2007
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The dissolved oxygen concentration shall not be reduced below 7.0 mg/l at any time (Basin Plan).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Data for Various Pollutants in Westside San Joaquin Water Quality Coalition, 2004-2009.
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 1 monitoring site [ 306ELK-Elkhorn Slough at Kirby Park]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 1/16/2007-2/20/2007.
Environmental Conditions: Central Coast Water Board Staff are not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: All data was collected following the Standard Operating Procedures and Data Quality Objectives outlined in the SWAMP QAMP, (Puckett, 2002). All data are flagged as appropriate.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Management Plan for the State of California's Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program. Sacramento, CA. State Water Resources Control Board. SWAMP. December 2002 (1st version)
 
 
DECISION ID
80360
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
Pollutant: Total Coliform
Final Listing Decision: Do Not Delist from 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: Do Not Delist from 303(d) list (TMDL required list)(2016)
Revision Status Original
Sources: A Source Unknown
Expected TMDL Completion Date: 2027
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: This pollutant is being considered for removal from the CWA 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.

This decision replaces Decision #5989, for the pollutant name "Pathogens".

Four lines of evidence are available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. Thirty-two of the 92 samples exceed the water quality objective for shellfish harvesting.

Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is sufficient justification against removing this water segment-pollutant combination from the CWA 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. Thirty-two of the 92 samples exceed the water quality objective and this exceeds the allowable frequency listed in Table 4.2 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 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 removed from the section 303(d) list because applicable water quality standards for the pollutant are 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.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 80360, Total Coliform
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 14009
 
Pollutant: Total Coliform
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Shellfish Harvesting
 
Number of Samples: 44
Number of Exceedances: 3
 
Data and Information Type: PATHOGEN MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Regional Board Staff assessed Central Coast Long Term Environmental Assessment Program (R3_CCLEAN) data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 3 of 44 samples exceed the criterion for Coliform, Total.
Data Reference: Final Data File used for assessment: CCLEAN (Central Coast Long Term Environmental Assessment Program data) Water Quality Data
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Water Quality Control Plan, Central Coast Basin Shellfish Harvesting objective (Section II.A.2. Objectives for All Inland Surface Waters, Enclosed Bays, and Estuaries (page III-12)) states the following: At all areas where shellfish may be harvested for human consumption, the median total coliform concentration throughout the water column for any 30-day period shall not exceed 70 MPN/100mL, not shall more than ten percent of the samples collected during any 30-day period exceed 230 MPN/100mL for a five tube decimal dilution test.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) - Central Coast Region (Region 3)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 2 monitoring sites [ 308ELK_CCL - Elkhorn Slough at N. Kirkby Park, 306ELJ_CCL - Elkhorn Slough at N. Jetty]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 1/22/2002-12/2/2003.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might effect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: EPA Approved QAPP.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 80360, Total Coliform
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 50087
 
Pollutant: Total Coliform
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Shellfish Harvesting
 
Number of Samples: 2
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PATHOGEN MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Water Board Staff assessed public submissions data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 2 samples exceed the criterion for Coliform, Total.
Data Reference: Salinas Rotation field data 2007
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Water Quality Control Plan, Central Coast Basin Shellfish Harvesting objective (Section II.A.2. Objectives for All Inland Surface Waters, Enclosed Bays, and Estuaries (page III-12)) states the following: At all areas where shellfish may be harvested for human consumption, the median total coliform concentration throughout the water column for any 30-day period shall not exceed 70 MPN/100mL, not shall more than ten percent of the samples collected during any 30-day period exceed 230 MPN/100mL for a five tube decimal dilution test.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Data for Various Pollutants in Westside San Joaquin Water Quality Coalition, 2004-2009.
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 1 monitoring site [ 306ELK-Elkhorn Slough at Kirby Park]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 1/16/2007-2/20/2007.
Environmental Conditions: Central Coast Water Board Staff are not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: All data was collected following the Standard Operating Procedures and Data Quality Objectives outlined in the SWAMP QAMP, (Puckett, 2002). All data are flagged as appropriate.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Management Plan for the State of California's Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program. Sacramento, CA. State Water Resources Control Board. SWAMP. December 2002 (1st version)
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 80360, Total Coliform
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 17441
 
Pollutant: Total Coliform
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Shellfish Harvesting
 
Number of Samples: 15
Number of Exceedances: 14
 
Data and Information Type: PATHOGEN MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Regional Board Staff assessed Coastal Watershed Council (Snapshot day monitoring) (R3_Snap) data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 14 of 15 samples exceed the criterion for Coliform, Total.
Data Reference: Final Data File used for assessment: Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Volunteer Monitoring Network Data. 2003-2006
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Water Quality Control Plan, Central Coast Basin Shellfish Harvesting objective (Section II.A.2. Objectives for All Inland Surface Waters, Enclosed Bays, and Estuaries (page III-12)) states the following: At all areas where shellfish may be harvested for human consumption, the median total coliform concentration throughout the water column for any 30-day period shall not exceed 70 MPN/100mL, not shall more than ten percent of the samples collected during any 30-day period exceed 230 MPN/100mL for a five tube decimal dilution test.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) - Central Coast Region (Region 3)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 4 monitoring sites [ 306-ELKHO-34 - Elkhorn Slough, 306-ELKHO-32 - Elkhorn Slough Hudson's Landing, 306-ELKHO-33 - Elkhorn Slough South Marsh Bridge, 306-ELKHO-31 - Elkhorn Slough Kirby Park]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 5/17/2003-5/6/2006. Coastal Watershed Council Snapshot Day Monitoring is conducted annually.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might effect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: State Board approved QAPP. Multiple errors were identified in data and were flagged or fixed by RB staff (in communication with Project staff) prior to assessment of data.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 80360, Total Coliform
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 9385
 
Pollutant: Total Coliform
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Shellfish Harvesting
 
Number of Samples: 31
Number of Exceedances: 15
 
Data and Information Type: PATHOGEN MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Regional Board Staff assessed CCAMP Salinas (Salinas) data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 15 of 31 samples exceed the criterion for Coliform, Total.
Data Reference: Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Salinas Toxicity data
  Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Water Quality Data_file1
  Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Water Quality Data_file2
  Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Water Quality Data_file3
 
SWAMP Data: SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Water Quality Control Plan, Central Coast Basin Shellfish Harvesting objective (Section II.A.2. Objectives for All Inland Surface Waters, Enclosed Bays, and Estuaries (page III-12)) states the following: At all areas where shellfish may be harvested for human consumption, the median total coliform concentration throughout the water column for any 30-day period shall not exceed 70 MPN/100mL, not shall more than ten percent of the samples collected during any 30-day period exceed 230 MPN/100mL for a five tube decimal dilution test.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) - Central Coast Region (Region 3)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 1 monitoring site [ 306ELK-Elkhorn Slough at Kirby Park]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 6/1/1999-12/18/2006. Salinas watershed is one of five annual rotation areas that are monitored for conventional pollutants by CCAMP staff monthly for one year. Toxicity monitoring is conducted twice during the rotation year (winter and summer) at a subset of sites.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might effect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: All data was collected following the Standard Operating Procedures and Data Quality Objectives outlined in the SWAMP QAMP, (Puckett, 2002). QA data are included in submission. All data are flagged as appropriate.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
 
DECISION ID
81100
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
Pollutant: pH
Final Listing Decision: Do Not Delist from 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: Do Not Delist from 303(d) list (TMDL required list)(2016)
Revision Status Original
Sources: A Source Unknown
Expected TMDL Completion Date: 2018
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: This pollutant is being considered for removal from the CWA 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.

Twenty-five lines of evidence are available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. Five beneficial uses are assessed. A total of 496 of the 1,771 samples exceed the water quality objective for Cold and Warm Freshwater Habitats and for marine habitat. A total of 608 of the 1,771 samples exceeded the water quality objectives for Recreation.

Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is sufficient justification against removing this water segment-pollutant combination from the CWA 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. A total of 496 of the 1,771 samples exceed the water quality objective for Cold and Warm Freshwater Habitats and for marine habitat. A total of 608 of the 1,771 samples exceeded the water quality objectives for Recreation. Each of these exceeds the allowable frequency listed in Table 4.2 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 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 removed from the section 303(d) list because applicable water quality standards for the pollutant are 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.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 81100, pH
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 11183
 
Pollutant: pH
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
Aquatic Life Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 12
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Regional Board Staff assessed CCAMP Salinas (Salinas) data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 12 samples exceed the criterion for pH.
Data Reference: Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Salinas Toxicity data
  Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Water Quality Data_file1
  Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Water Quality Data_file2
  Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Water Quality Data_file3
 
SWAMP Data: SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan, Central Coast Basin, General Objective, Chapter III, Section II.A.2 General Objectives for all Inland Surface Waters, Enclosed Bays and Estuaries states the following: For waters not mentioned by a specific beneficial use, the pH value shall not be depressed below 7.0 or raised above 8.5.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) - Central Coast Region (Region 3)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 1 monitoring site [ 306ELK-Elkhorn Slough at Kirby Park]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 1/23/2006-12/18/2006. Salinas watershed is one of five annual rotation areas that are monitored for conventional pollutants by CCAMP staff monthly for one year. Toxicity monitoring is conducted twice during the rotation year (winter and summer) at a subset of sites.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might effect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: All data was collected following the Standard Operating Procedures and Data Quality Objectives outlined in the SWAMP QAMP, (Puckett, 2002). QA data are included in submission. All data are flagged as appropriate.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 81100, pH
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 19058
 
Pollutant: pH
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Water Contact Recreation
 
Number of Samples: 15
Number of Exceedances: 3
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Regional Board Staff assessed Coastal Watershed Council (Snapshot day monitoring) (R3_Snap) data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 3 of 15 samples exceed the criterion for pH.
Data Reference: Final Data File used for assessment: Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Volunteer Monitoring Network Data. 2003-2006
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Water Quality Control Plan, Central Coast Basin objective for water contact recreation uses (Section II.A.2. Objectives for All Inland Surface Waters, Enclosed Bays, and Estuaries, II.A.2.a) states the following: pH value shall neither be depressed below 6.5 nor raised above 8.3.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) - Central Coast Region (Region 3)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 4 monitoring sites [ 306-ELKHO-34 - Elkhorn Slough, 306-ELKHO-32 - Elkhorn Slough Hudson's Landing, 306-ELKHO-33 - Elkhorn Slough South Marsh Bridge, 306-ELKHO-31 - Elkhorn Slough Kirby Park]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 5/17/2003-5/6/2006. Coastal Watershed Council Snapshot Day Monitoring is conducted annually.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might effect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: State Board approved QAPP. Multiple errors were identified in data and were flagged or fixed by RB staff (in communication with Project staff) prior to assessment of data.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 81100, pH
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 19041
 
Pollutant: pH
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
Aquatic Life Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 15
Number of Exceedances: 1
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Regional Board Staff assessed Coastal Watershed Council (Snapshot day monitoring) (R3_Snap) data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 1 of 15 samples exceed the criterion for pH.
Data Reference: Final Data File used for assessment: Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Volunteer Monitoring Network Data. 2003-2006
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan, Central Coast Basin, General Objective, Chapter III, Section II.A.2 General Objectives for all Inland Surface Waters, Enclosed Bays and Estuaries states the following: For waters not mentioned by a specific beneficial use, the pH value shall not be depressed below 7.0 or raised above 8.5.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) - Central Coast Region (Region 3)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 4 monitoring sites [ 306-ELKHO-34 - Elkhorn Slough, 306-ELKHO-32 - Elkhorn Slough Hudson's Landing, 306-ELKHO-33 - Elkhorn Slough South Marsh Bridge, 306-ELKHO-31 - Elkhorn Slough Kirby Park]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 5/17/2003-5/6/2006. Coastal Watershed Council Snapshot Day Monitoring is conducted annually.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might effect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: State Board approved QAPP. Multiple errors were identified in data and were flagged or fixed by RB staff (in communication with Project staff) prior to assessment of data.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 81100, pH
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 52900
 
Pollutant: pH
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 47
Number of Exceedances: 20
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Water Board Central Coast Water Board Staff assessed public submissions data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 20 of 47 samples exceed the criterion for pH.
Data Reference: Data from Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve Volunteer Monthly Water Quality Program, Jan. 2007-Jul. 2009
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The pH value shall not be depressed below 7.0 or raised above 8.5 (Basin Plan).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the Central Coastal Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 11 monitoring sites [ 306ELKAPC - Elkhorn Slough at Azevedo Pond, Central , 306ELKAPN - Elkhorn Slough at Azevedo Pond, North , 306ELKAPS - Elkhorn Slough at Azevedo Pond, South , 306ELKCAT - Elkhorn Slough at Cattail Swale , 306ELKHLE - Elkhorn Slough at Hudson's Landing East , 306ELKHLW - Elkhorn Slough at Hudson's Landing West , 306ELKKPD - Elkhorn Slough at Kirby Park Dock , 306ELKRBR - Elkhorn Slough at Reserve Bridge , 306ELKROK - Elkhorn Slough at Rookery Pond , 306ELKRSM - Elkhorn Slough at Reserve, South Marsh (Whistle Stop Lagoon) , 306ELKSTB - Elkhorn Slough at Strawberry Rd ]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 1/8/2007-7/10/2007.
Environmental Conditions: Central Coast Water Board Staff are not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: Data was collected following the Quality Assurance Project Plan for Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve's Volunteer Monthly Water Quality Program. Replicate data were identified in data and were qualified by RB Central Coast Water Board S
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan, Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve Volunteer Monthly Water Quality Program. May 15, 2009, Ver.1.3
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 81100, pH
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 50057
 
Pollutant: pH
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 2
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Water Board Staff assessed public submissions data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 2 samples exceed the criterion for pH.
Data Reference: Salinas Rotation field data 2007
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The pH value shall not be depressed below 7.0 or raised above 8.5 (Basin Plan).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Data for Various Pollutants in Westside San Joaquin Water Quality Coalition, 2004-2009.
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 1 monitoring site [ 306ELK-Elkhorn Slough at Kirby Park]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 1/16/2007-2/20/2007.
Environmental Conditions: Central Coast Water Board Staff are not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: All data was collected following the Standard Operating Procedures and Data Quality Objectives outlined in the SWAMP QAMP, (Puckett, 2002). All data are flagged as appropriate.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Management Plan for the State of California's Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program. Sacramento, CA. State Water Resources Control Board. SWAMP. December 2002 (1st version)
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 81100, pH
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 11184
 
Pollutant: pH
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Marine Habitat
Aquatic Life Use: Marine Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 12
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Regional Board Staff assessed CCAMP Salinas (Salinas) data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 12 samples exceed the criterion for pH.
Data Reference: Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Salinas Toxicity data
  Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Water Quality Data_file1
  Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Water Quality Data_file2
  Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Water Quality Data_file3
 
SWAMP Data: SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Water Quality Control Plan, Central Coast Basin, Section II.A.2. Objectives for All Inland Surface Waters, Enclosed Bays, and Estuaries, II.A.2.a states the following for Marine Habitat beneficial uses: The pH value shall not be depressed below 7.0 or raised above 8.5. Changes in normal ambient pH levels shall not exceed 0.2 units.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) - Central Coast Region (Region 3)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 1 monitoring site [ 306ELK-Elkhorn Slough at Kirby Park]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 1/23/2006-12/18/2006. Salinas watershed is one of five annual rotation areas that are monitored for conventional pollutants by CCAMP staff monthly for one year. Toxicity monitoring is conducted twice during the rotation year (winter and summer) at a subset of sites.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might effect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: All data was collected following the Standard Operating Procedures and Data Quality Objectives outlined in the SWAMP QAMP, (Puckett, 2002). QA data are included in submission. All data are flagged as appropriate.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 81100, pH
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 19057
 
Pollutant: pH
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Marine Habitat
Aquatic Life Use: Marine Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 15
Number of Exceedances: 1
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Regional Board Staff assessed Coastal Watershed Council (Snapshot day monitoring) (R3_Snap) data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 1 of 15 samples exceed the criterion for pH.
Data Reference: Final Data File used for assessment: Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Volunteer Monitoring Network Data. 2003-2006
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Water Quality Control Plan, Central Coast Basin, Section II.A.2. Objectives for All Inland Surface Waters, Enclosed Bays, and Estuaries, II.A.2.a states the following for Marine Habitat beneficial uses: The pH value shall not be depressed below 7.0 or raised above 8.5. Changes in normal ambient pH levels shall not exceed 0.2 units.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) - Central Coast Region (Region 3)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 4 monitoring sites [ 306-ELKHO-34 - Elkhorn Slough, 306-ELKHO-32 - Elkhorn Slough Hudson's Landing, 306-ELKHO-33 - Elkhorn Slough South Marsh Bridge, 306-ELKHO-31 - Elkhorn Slough Kirby Park]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 5/17/2003-5/6/2006. Coastal Watershed Council Snapshot Day Monitoring is conducted annually.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might effect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: State Board approved QAPP. Multiple errors were identified in data and were flagged or fixed by RB staff (in communication with Project staff) prior to assessment of data.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 81100, pH
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 78874
 
Pollutant: pH
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Marine Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 47
Number of Exceedances: 20
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Water Board Central Coast Water Board Staff assessed public submissions data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 20 of 47 samples exceed the criterion for pH.
Data Reference: Data from Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve Volunteer Monthly Water Quality Program, Jan. 2007-Jul. 2009
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The pH value shall not be depressed below 7.0 or raised above 8.5 (Basin Plan).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the Central Coastal Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 11 monitoring sites [ 306ELKAPC - Elkhorn Slough at Azevedo Pond, Central , 306ELKAPN - Elkhorn Slough at Azevedo Pond, North , 306ELKAPS - Elkhorn Slough at Azevedo Pond, South , 306ELKCAT - Elkhorn Slough at Cattail Swale , 306ELKHLE - Elkhorn Slough at Hudson's Landing East , 306ELKHLW - Elkhorn Slough at Hudson's Landing West , 306ELKKPD - Elkhorn Slough at Kirby Park Dock , 306ELKRBR - Elkhorn Slough at Reserve Bridge , 306ELKROK - Elkhorn Slough at Rookery Pond , 306ELKRSM - Elkhorn Slough at Reserve, South Marsh (Whistle Stop Lagoon) , 306ELKSTB - Elkhorn Slough at Strawberry Rd ]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 1/8/2007-7/10/2007.
Environmental Conditions: Central Coast Water Board Staff are not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: Data was collected following the Quality Assurance Project Plan for Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve's Volunteer Monthly Water Quality Program. Replicate data were identified in data and were qualified by RB Central Coast Water Board S
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan, Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve Volunteer Monthly Water Quality Program. May 15, 2009, Ver.1.3
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 81100, pH
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 78875
 
Pollutant: pH
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Marine Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 2
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Water Board Staff assessed public submissions data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 2 samples exceed the criterion for pH.
Data Reference: Salinas Rotation field data 2007
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The pH value shall not be depressed below 7.0 or raised above 8.5 (Basin Plan).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Data for Various Pollutants in Westside San Joaquin Water Quality Coalition, 2004-2009.
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 1 monitoring site [ 306ELK-Elkhorn Slough at Kirby Park]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 1/16/2007-2/20/2007.
Environmental Conditions: Central Coast Water Board Staff are not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: All data was collected following the Standard Operating Procedures and Data Quality Objectives outlined in the SWAMP QAMP, (Puckett, 2002). All data are flagged as appropriate.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Management Plan for the State of California's Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program. Sacramento, CA. State Water Resources Control Board. SWAMP. December 2002 (1st version)
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 81100, pH
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 15119
 
Pollutant: pH
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Marine Habitat
Aquatic Life Use: Marine Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 1695
Number of Exceedances: 475
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Regional Board Staff assessed National Estuarine Research Reserve Monitoring Program (R3_ESNERR) data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 475 of 1695 samples exceed the criterion for pH.
Data Reference: Final Data File used for assessment: ESNERR (Elkhorn Slough National Reserve) Field Data from 2006
  Final Data File used for assessment: ESNERR (Elkhorn Slough National Reserve) Water Quality Data from 2006
  Final Data File used for assessment: ESNERR (Elkhorn Slough National Reserve) Water Quality Data from 94-04
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Water Quality Control Plan, Central Coast Basin, Section II.A.2. Objectives for All Inland Surface Waters, Enclosed Bays, and Estuaries, II.A.2.a states the following for Marine Habitat beneficial uses: The pH value shall not be depressed below 7.0 or raised above 8.5. Changes in normal ambient pH levels shall not exceed 0.2 units.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) - Central Coast Region (Region 3)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 12 monitoring sites [ 306ELKAPN - Azevedo Pond, North, 306ELKAPC - Azevedo Pond, Central, 306ELKAPS - Azevedo Pond, South, 306ELKRBR - Reserve Bridge, 306ELKRSM - Reserve, South Marsh, 306ELKSTB - Strawberry Rd, 306ELKRNM - Reserve, North Marsh, 306ELKKPD - Kirby Park, 306ELKHLE - Hudson's Landing East, 306ELKHLW - Hudson's Landing West, 306ELKROK - Rookery Pond, 306ELKCAT - Cattail Swale]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 1/20/1990-10/10/2006.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might effect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: QAPP was adopted for work conducted since 2005. Prior to 2005 no QAPP was in place and data entry was completed by volunteers. Multiple errors were identified in data and were flagged by RB staff (in communication with Elkhorn Slough Program staff) prior to assessment of data.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 81100, pH
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 19059
 
Pollutant: pH
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Non-Contact Recreation
 
Number of Samples: 15
Number of Exceedances: 3
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Regional Board Staff assessed Coastal Watershed Council (Snapshot day monitoring) (R3_Snap) data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 3 of 15 samples exceed the criterion for pH.
Data Reference: Final Data File used for assessment: Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Volunteer Monitoring Network Data. 2003-2006
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Water Quality Control Plan, Central Coast Basin objective for non-contact water recreation uses (Section II.A.2. Objectives for All Inland Surface Waters, Enclosed Bays, and Estuaries, II.A.2.a) states the following: pH value shall neither be depressed below 6.5 nor raised above 8.3.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) - Central Coast Region (Region 3)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 4 monitoring sites [ 306-ELKHO-34 - Elkhorn Slough, 306-ELKHO-32 - Elkhorn Slough Hudson's Landing, 306-ELKHO-33 - Elkhorn Slough South Marsh Bridge, 306-ELKHO-31 - Elkhorn Slough Kirby Park]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 5/17/2003-5/6/2006. Coastal Watershed Council Snapshot Day Monitoring is conducted annually.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might effect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: State Board approved QAPP. Multiple errors were identified in data and were flagged or fixed by RB staff (in communication with Project staff) prior to assessment of data.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 81100, pH
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 11186
 
Pollutant: pH
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Non-Contact Recreation
 
Number of Samples: 12
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Regional Board Staff assessed CCAMP Salinas (Salinas) data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 12 samples exceed the criterion for pH.
Data Reference: Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Salinas Toxicity data
  Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Water Quality Data_file1
  Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Water Quality Data_file2
  Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Water Quality Data_file3
 
SWAMP Data: SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Water Quality Control Plan, Central Coast Basin objective for non-contact water recreation uses (Section II.A.2. Objectives for All Inland Surface Waters, Enclosed Bays, and Estuaries, II.A.2.a) states the following: pH value shall neither be depressed below 6.5 nor raised above 8.3.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) - Central Coast Region (Region 3)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 1 monitoring site [ 306ELK-Elkhorn Slough at Kirby Park]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 1/23/2006-12/18/2006. Salinas watershed is one of five annual rotation areas that are monitored for conventional pollutants by CCAMP staff monthly for one year. Toxicity monitoring is conducted twice during the rotation year (winter and summer) at a subset of sites.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might effect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: All data was collected following the Standard Operating Procedures and Data Quality Objectives outlined in the SWAMP QAMP, (Puckett, 2002). QA data are included in submission. All data are flagged as appropriate.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 81100, pH
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 15121
 
Pollutant: pH
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Non-Contact Recreation
 
Number of Samples: 1695
Number of Exceedances: 580
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Regional Board Staff assessed National Estuarine Research Reserve Monitoring Program (R3_ESNERR) data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 580 of 1695 samples exceed the criterion for pH.
Data Reference: Final Data File used for assessment: ESNERR (Elkhorn Slough National Reserve) Field Data from 2006
  Final Data File used for assessment: ESNERR (Elkhorn Slough National Reserve) Water Quality Data from 2006
  Final Data File used for assessment: ESNERR (Elkhorn Slough National Reserve) Water Quality Data from 94-04
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Water Quality Control Plan, Central Coast Basin objective for non-contact water recreation uses (Section II.A.2. Objectives for All Inland Surface Waters, Enclosed Bays, and Estuaries, II.A.2.a) states the following: pH value shall neither be depressed below 6.5 nor raised above 8.3.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) - Central Coast Region (Region 3)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 12 monitoring sites [ 306ELKAPN - Azevedo Pond, North, 306ELKAPC - Azevedo Pond, Central, 306ELKAPS - Azevedo Pond, South, 306ELKRBR - Reserve Bridge, 306ELKRSM - Reserve, South Marsh, 306ELKSTB - Strawberry Rd, 306ELKRNM - Reserve, North Marsh, 306ELKKPD - Kirby Park, 306ELKHLE - Hudson's Landing East, 306ELKHLW - Hudson's Landing West, 306ELKROK - Rookery Pond, 306ELKCAT - Cattail Swale]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 1/20/1990-10/10/2006.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might effect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: QAPP was adopted for work conducted since 2005. Prior to 2005 no QAPP was in place and data entry was completed by volunteers. Multiple errors were identified in data and were flagged by RB staff (in communication with Elkhorn Slough Program staff) prior to assessment of data.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 81100, pH
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 52943
 
Pollutant: pH
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Non-Contact Recreation
 
Number of Samples: 47
Number of Exceedances: 25
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Water Board Central Coast Water Board Staff assessed public submissions data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 25 of 47 samples exceed the criterion for pH.
Data Reference: Data from Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve Volunteer Monthly Water Quality Program, Jan. 2007-Jul. 2009
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The pH value shall neither be depressed below 6.5 nor raised above 8.3 (Basin Plan).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the Central Coastal Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 11 monitoring sites [ 306ELKAPC - Elkhorn Slough at Azevedo Pond, Central , 306ELKAPN - Elkhorn Slough at Azevedo Pond, North , 306ELKAPS - Elkhorn Slough at Azevedo Pond, South , 306ELKCAT - Elkhorn Slough at Cattail Swale , 306ELKHLE - Elkhorn Slough at Hudson's Landing East , 306ELKHLW - Elkhorn Slough at Hudson's Landing West , 306ELKKPD - Elkhorn Slough at Kirby Park Dock , 306ELKRBR - Elkhorn Slough at Reserve Bridge , 306ELKROK - Elkhorn Slough at Rookery Pond , 306ELKRSM - Elkhorn Slough at Reserve, South Marsh (Whistle Stop Lagoon) , 306ELKSTB - Elkhorn Slough at Strawberry Rd ]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 1/8/2007-7/10/2007.
Environmental Conditions: Central Coast Water Board Staff are not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: Data was collected following the Quality Assurance Project Plan for Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve's Volunteer Monthly Water Quality Program. Replicate data were identified in data and were qualified by RB Central Coast Water Board S
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan, Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve Volunteer Monthly Water Quality Program. May 15, 2009, Ver.1.3
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 81100, pH
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 50086
 
Pollutant: pH
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Non-Contact Recreation
 
Number of Samples: 2
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Water Board Staff assessed public submissions data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 2 samples exceed the criterion for pH.
Data Reference: Salinas Rotation field data 2007
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The pH value shall neither be depressed below 6.5 nor raised above 8.3 (Basin Plan).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Data for Various Pollutants in Westside San Joaquin Water Quality Coalition, 2004-2009.
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 1 monitoring site [ 306ELK-Elkhorn Slough at Kirby Park]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 1/16/2007-2/20/2007.
Environmental Conditions: Central Coast Water Board Staff are not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: All data was collected following the Standard Operating Procedures and Data Quality Objectives outlined in the SWAMP QAMP, (Puckett, 2002). All data are flagged as appropriate.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Management Plan for the State of California's Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program. Sacramento, CA. State Water Resources Control Board. SWAMP. December 2002 (1st version)
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 81100, pH
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 15136
 
Pollutant: pH
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
Aquatic Life Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 1695
Number of Exceedances: 475
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Regional Board Staff assessed National Estuarine Research Reserve Monitoring Program (R3_ESNERR) data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 475 of 1695 samples exceed the criterion for pH.
Data Reference: Final Data File used for assessment: ESNERR (Elkhorn Slough National Reserve) Field Data from 2006
  Final Data File used for assessment: ESNERR (Elkhorn Slough National Reserve) Water Quality Data from 2006
  Final Data File used for assessment: ESNERR (Elkhorn Slough National Reserve) Water Quality Data from 94-04
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan, Central Coast Basin, General Objective, Chapter III, Section II.A.2 General Objectives for all Inland Surface Waters, Enclosed Bays and Estuaries states the following: For waters not mentioned by a specific beneficial use, the pH value shall not be depressed below 7.0 or raised above 8.5.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) - Central Coast Region (Region 3)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 12 monitoring sites [ 306ELKAPN - Azevedo Pond, North, 306ELKAPC - Azevedo Pond, Central, 306ELKAPS - Azevedo Pond, South, 306ELKRBR - Reserve Bridge, 306ELKRSM - Reserve, South Marsh, 306ELKSTB - Strawberry Rd, 306ELKRNM - Reserve, North Marsh, 306ELKKPD - Kirby Park, 306ELKHLE - Hudson's Landing East, 306ELKHLW - Hudson's Landing West, 306ELKROK - Rookery Pond, 306ELKCAT - Cattail Swale]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 1/20/1990-10/10/2006.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might effect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: QAPP was adopted for work conducted since 2005. Prior to 2005 no QAPP was in place and data entry was completed by volunteers. Multiple errors were identified in data and were flagged by RB staff (in communication with Elkhorn Slough Program staff) prior to assessment of data.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 81100, pH
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 50112
 
Pollutant: pH
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 2
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Water Board Staff assessed public submissions data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 2 samples exceed the criterion for pH.
Data Reference: Salinas Rotation field data 2007
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The pH value shall not be depressed below 7.0 or raised above 8.5 (Basin Plan).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Data for Various Pollutants in Westside San Joaquin Water Quality Coalition, 2004-2009.
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 1 monitoring site [ 306ELK-Elkhorn Slough at Kirby Park]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 1/16/2007-2/20/2007.
Environmental Conditions: Central Coast Water Board Staff are not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: All data was collected following the Standard Operating Procedures and Data Quality Objectives outlined in the SWAMP QAMP, (Puckett, 2002). All data are flagged as appropriate.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Management Plan for the State of California's Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program. Sacramento, CA. State Water Resources Control Board. SWAMP. December 2002 (1st version)
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 81100, pH
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 19060
 
Pollutant: pH
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
Aquatic Life Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 15
Number of Exceedances: 1
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Regional Board Staff assessed Coastal Watershed Council (Snapshot day monitoring) (R3_Snap) data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 1 of 15 samples exceed the criterion for pH.
Data Reference: Final Data File used for assessment: Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Volunteer Monitoring Network Data. 2003-2006
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan, Central Coast Basin, General Objective, Chapter III, Section II.A.2 General Objectives for all Inland Surface Waters, Enclosed Bays and Estuaries states the following: For waters not mentioned by a specific beneficial use, the pH value shall not be depressed below 7.0 or raised above 8.5.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) - Central Coast Region (Region 3)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 4 monitoring sites [ 306-ELKHO-34 - Elkhorn Slough, 306-ELKHO-32 - Elkhorn Slough Hudson's Landing, 306-ELKHO-33 - Elkhorn Slough South Marsh Bridge, 306-ELKHO-31 - Elkhorn Slough Kirby Park]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 5/17/2003-5/6/2006. Coastal Watershed Council Snapshot Day Monitoring is conducted annually.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might effect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: State Board approved QAPP. Multiple errors were identified in data and were flagged or fixed by RB staff (in communication with Project staff) prior to assessment of data.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 81100, pH
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 15118
 
Pollutant: pH
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
Aquatic Life Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 1695
Number of Exceedances: 475
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Regional Board Staff assessed National Estuarine Research Reserve Monitoring Program (R3_ESNERR) data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 475 of 1695 samples exceed the criterion for pH.
Data Reference: Final Data File used for assessment: ESNERR (Elkhorn Slough National Reserve) Field Data from 2006
  Final Data File used for assessment: ESNERR (Elkhorn Slough National Reserve) Water Quality Data from 2006
  Final Data File used for assessment: ESNERR (Elkhorn Slough National Reserve) Water Quality Data from 94-04
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan, Central Coast Basin, General Objective, Chapter III, Section II.A.2 General Objectives for all Inland Surface Waters, Enclosed Bays and Estuaries states the following: For waters not mentioned by a specific beneficial use, the pH value shall not be depressed below 7.0 or raised above 8.5.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) - Central Coast Region (Region 3)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 12 monitoring sites [ 306ELKAPN - Azevedo Pond, North, 306ELKAPC - Azevedo Pond, Central, 306ELKAPS - Azevedo Pond, South, 306ELKRBR - Reserve Bridge, 306ELKRSM - Reserve, South Marsh, 306ELKSTB - Strawberry Rd, 306ELKRNM - Reserve, North Marsh, 306ELKKPD - Kirby Park, 306ELKHLE - Hudson's Landing East, 306ELKHLW - Hudson's Landing West, 306ELKROK - Rookery Pond, 306ELKCAT - Cattail Swale]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 1/20/1990-10/10/2006.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might effect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: QAPP was adopted for work conducted since 2005. Prior to 2005 no QAPP was in place and data entry was completed by volunteers. Multiple errors were identified in data and were flagged by RB staff (in communication with Elkhorn Slough Program staff) prior to assessment of data.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 81100, pH
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 11185
 
Pollutant: pH
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Water Contact Recreation
 
Number of Samples: 12
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Regional Board Staff assessed CCAMP Salinas (Salinas) data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 12 samples exceed the criterion for pH.
Data Reference: Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Salinas Toxicity data
  Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Water Quality Data_file1
  Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Water Quality Data_file2
  Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Water Quality Data_file3
 
SWAMP Data: SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Water Quality Control Plan, Central Coast Basin objective for water contact recreation uses (Section II.A.2. Objectives for All Inland Surface Waters, Enclosed Bays, and Estuaries, II.A.2.a) states the following: pH value shall neither be depressed below 6.5 nor raised above 8.3.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) - Central Coast Region (Region 3)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 1 monitoring site [ 306ELK-Elkhorn Slough at Kirby Park]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 1/23/2006-12/18/2006. Salinas watershed is one of five annual rotation areas that are monitored for conventional pollutants by CCAMP staff monthly for one year. Toxicity monitoring is conducted twice during the rotation year (winter and summer) at a subset of sites.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might effect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: All data was collected following the Standard Operating Procedures and Data Quality Objectives outlined in the SWAMP QAMP, (Puckett, 2002). QA data are included in submission. All data are flagged as appropriate.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 81100, pH
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 52936
 
Pollutant: pH
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Water Contact Recreation
 
Number of Samples: 47
Number of Exceedances: 25
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Water Board Central Coast Water Board Staff assessed public submissions data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 25 of 47 samples exceed the criterion for pH.
Data Reference: Data from Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve Volunteer Monthly Water Quality Program, Jan. 2007-Jul. 2009
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The pH value shall neither be depressed below 6.5 nor raised above 8.3 (Basin Plan).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the Central Coastal Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 11 monitoring sites [ 306ELKAPC - Elkhorn Slough at Azevedo Pond, Central , 306ELKAPN - Elkhorn Slough at Azevedo Pond, North , 306ELKAPS - Elkhorn Slough at Azevedo Pond, South , 306ELKCAT - Elkhorn Slough at Cattail Swale , 306ELKHLE - Elkhorn Slough at Hudson's Landing East , 306ELKHLW - Elkhorn Slough at Hudson's Landing West , 306ELKKPD - Elkhorn Slough at Kirby Park Dock , 306ELKRBR - Elkhorn Slough at Reserve Bridge , 306ELKROK - Elkhorn Slough at Rookery Pond , 306ELKRSM - Elkhorn Slough at Reserve, South Marsh (Whistle Stop Lagoon) , 306ELKSTB - Elkhorn Slough at Strawberry Rd ]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 1/8/2007-7/10/2007.
Environmental Conditions: Central Coast Water Board Staff are not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: Data was collected following the Quality Assurance Project Plan for Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve's Volunteer Monthly Water Quality Program. Replicate data were identified in data and were qualified by RB Central Coast Water Board S
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan, Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve Volunteer Monthly Water Quality Program. May 15, 2009, Ver.1.3
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 81100, pH
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 15120
 
Pollutant: pH
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Water Contact Recreation
 
Number of Samples: 1695
Number of Exceedances: 580
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Regional Board Staff assessed National Estuarine Research Reserve Monitoring Program (R3_ESNERR) data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 580 of 1695 samples exceed the criterion for pH.
Data Reference: Final Data File used for assessment: ESNERR (Elkhorn Slough National Reserve) Field Data from 2006
  Final Data File used for assessment: ESNERR (Elkhorn Slough National Reserve) Water Quality Data from 2006
  Final Data File used for assessment: ESNERR (Elkhorn Slough National Reserve) Water Quality Data from 94-04
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Water Quality Control Plan, Central Coast Basin objective for water contact recreation uses (Section II.A.2. Objectives for All Inland Surface Waters, Enclosed Bays, and Estuaries, II.A.2.a) states the following: pH value shall neither be depressed below 6.5 nor raised above 8.3.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) - Central Coast Region (Region 3)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 12 monitoring sites [ 306ELKAPN - Azevedo Pond, North, 306ELKAPC - Azevedo Pond, Central, 306ELKAPS - Azevedo Pond, South, 306ELKRBR - Reserve Bridge, 306ELKRSM - Reserve, South Marsh, 306ELKSTB - Strawberry Rd, 306ELKRNM - Reserve, North Marsh, 306ELKKPD - Kirby Park, 306ELKHLE - Hudson's Landing East, 306ELKHLW - Hudson's Landing West, 306ELKROK - Rookery Pond, 306ELKCAT - Cattail Swale]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 1/20/1990-10/10/2006.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might effect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: QAPP was adopted for work conducted since 2005. Prior to 2005 no QAPP was in place and data entry was completed by volunteers. Multiple errors were identified in data and were flagged by RB staff (in communication with Elkhorn Slough Program staff) prior to assessment of data.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 81100, pH
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 50084
 
Pollutant: pH
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Water Contact Recreation
 
Number of Samples: 2
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Water Board Staff assessed public submissions data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 2 samples exceed the criterion for pH.
Data Reference: Salinas Rotation field data 2007
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The pH value shall neither be depressed below 6.5 nor raised above 8.3 (Basin Plan).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Data for Various Pollutants in Westside San Joaquin Water Quality Coalition, 2004-2009.
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 1 monitoring site [ 306ELK-Elkhorn Slough at Kirby Park]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 1/16/2007-2/20/2007.
Environmental Conditions: Central Coast Water Board Staff are not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: All data was collected following the Standard Operating Procedures and Data Quality Objectives outlined in the SWAMP QAMP, (Puckett, 2002). All data are flagged as appropriate.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Management Plan for the State of California's Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program. Sacramento, CA. State Water Resources Control Board. SWAMP. December 2002 (1st version)
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 81100, pH
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 11187
 
Pollutant: pH
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
Aquatic Life Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 12
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Regional Board Staff assessed CCAMP Salinas (Salinas) data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 12 samples exceed the criterion for pH.
Data Reference: Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Salinas Toxicity data
  Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Water Quality Data_file1
  Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Water Quality Data_file2
  Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Water Quality Data_file3
 
SWAMP Data: SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan, Central Coast Basin, General Objective, Chapter III, Section II.A.2 General Objectives for all Inland Surface Waters, Enclosed Bays and Estuaries states the following: For waters not mentioned by a specific beneficial use, the pH value shall not be depressed below 7.0 or raised above 8.5.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) - Central Coast Region (Region 3)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 1 monitoring site [ 306ELK-Elkhorn Slough at Kirby Park]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 1/23/2006-12/18/2006. Salinas watershed is one of five annual rotation areas that are monitored for conventional pollutants by CCAMP staff monthly for one year. Toxicity monitoring is conducted twice during the rotation year (winter and summer) at a subset of sites.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might effect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: All data was collected following the Standard Operating Procedures and Data Quality Objectives outlined in the SWAMP QAMP, (Puckett, 2002). QA data are included in submission. All data are flagged as appropriate.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 81100, pH
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 52951
 
Pollutant: pH
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 47
Number of Exceedances: 20
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Water Board Central Coast Water Board Staff assessed public submissions data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 20 of 47 samples exceed the criterion for pH.
Data Reference: Data from Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve Volunteer Monthly Water Quality Program, Jan. 2007-Jul. 2009
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The pH value shall not be depressed below 7.0 or raised above 8.5 (Basin Plan).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the Central Coastal Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 11 monitoring sites [ 306ELKAPC - Elkhorn Slough at Azevedo Pond, Central , 306ELKAPN - Elkhorn Slough at Azevedo Pond, North , 306ELKAPS - Elkhorn Slough at Azevedo Pond, South , 306ELKCAT - Elkhorn Slough at Cattail Swale , 306ELKHLE - Elkhorn Slough at Hudson's Landing East , 306ELKHLW - Elkhorn Slough at Hudson's Landing West , 306ELKKPD - Elkhorn Slough at Kirby Park Dock , 306ELKRBR - Elkhorn Slough at Reserve Bridge , 306ELKROK - Elkhorn Slough at Rookery Pond , 306ELKRSM - Elkhorn Slough at Reserve, South Marsh (Whistle Stop Lagoon) , 306ELKSTB - Elkhorn Slough at Strawberry Rd ]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 1/8/2007-7/10/2007.
Environmental Conditions: Central Coast Water Board Staff are not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: Data was collected following the Quality Assurance Project Plan for Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve's Volunteer Monthly Water Quality Program. Replicate data were identified in data and were qualified by RB Central Coast Water Board S
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan, Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve Volunteer Monthly Water Quality Program. May 15, 2009, Ver.1.3
 
 
DECISION ID
73587
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
Pollutant: Ammonia
Final Listing Decision: Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)(2016)
Revision Status Original
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: This pollutant is being considered for placement on the CWA 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.

Four lines of evidence are available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. Zero of the 14 samples exceed the water quality objective for aquatic life protection.

This sample size is insufficient to determine, with the power and confidence of the Listing Policy, the applicable beneficial use support rating. A minimum of 16 samples is needed to determine if a beneficial use is supported and a minimum of two exceedances is needed to determine if beneficial uses are not supported using table 3.1. Therefore, the use support rating is set to 'insufficient information'.

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 CWA section 303(d) List in the Water Quality Limited Segments category.

This conclusion is based on the staff findings that:
1. The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy.
2. The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy.
3. Zero of the 14 samples exceed the water quality objective for aquatic life protectionand 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.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 73587, Ammonia
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 9387
 
Pollutant: Ammonia (Unionized)
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
Aquatic Life Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 12
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Regional Board Staff assessed CCAMP Salinas (Salinas) data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 12 samples exceed the criterion for Ammonia as N, Unionized.
Data Reference: Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Salinas Toxicity data
  Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Water Quality Data_file1
  Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Water Quality Data_file2
  Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Water Quality Data_file3
 
SWAMP Data: SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan, Central Coast Basin General Objective, Chapter III, Section II.A.2 (General Objectives for all Inland Surface Waters, Enclosed Bays and Estuaries) states that the discharge of wastes shall not cause concentrations of unionized ammonia (NH3) to exceed 0.025 mg/l (as N) in receiving waters (page III-4) .
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) - Central Coast Region (Region 3)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 1 monitoring site [ 306ELK-Elkhorn Slough at Kirby Park]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 1/23/2006-12/18/2006. Salinas watershed is one of five annual rotation areas that are monitored for conventional pollutants by CCAMP staff monthly for one year. Toxicity monitoring is conducted twice during the rotation year (winter and summer) at a subset of sites.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might effect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: All data was collected following the Standard Operating Procedures and Data Quality Objectives outlined in the SWAMP QAMP, (Puckett, 2002). QA data are included in submission. All data are flagged as appropriate.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 73587, Ammonia
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 50097
 
Pollutant: Ammonia (Unionized)
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 2
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Water Board Staff assessed public submissions data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 2 samples exceed the criterion for Ammonia as N, Unionized.
Data Reference: Salinas Rotation field data 2007
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan, Central Coast Basin General Objective, Chapter III, Section II.A.2 (General Objectives for all Inland Surface Waters, Enclosed Bays and Estuaries) states that the discharge of wastes shall not cause concentrations of unionized ammonia (NH3) to exceed 0.025 mg/l (as N) in receiving waters (page III-4).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Data for Various Pollutants in Westside San Joaquin Water Quality Coalition, 2004-2009.
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 1 monitoring site [ 306ELK-Elkhorn Slough at Kirby Park]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 1/16/2007-2/20/2007.
Environmental Conditions: Central Coast Water Board Staff are not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: All data was collected following the Standard Operating Procedures and Data Quality Objectives outlined in the SWAMP QAMP, (Puckett, 2002). All data are flagged as appropriate.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Management Plan for the State of California's Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program. Sacramento, CA. State Water Resources Control Board. SWAMP. December 2002 (1st version)
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 73587, Ammonia
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 50108
 
Pollutant: Ammonia (Unionized)
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 2
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Water Board Staff assessed public submissions data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 2 samples exceed the criterion for Ammonia as N, Unionized.
Data Reference: Salinas Rotation field data 2007
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan, Central Coast Basin General Objective, Chapter III, Section II.A.2 (General Objectives for all Inland Surface Waters, Enclosed Bays and Estuaries) states that the discharge of wastes shall not cause concentrations of unionized ammonia (NH3) to exceed 0.025 mg/l (as N) in receiving waters (page III-4) .
Objective/Criterion Reference: Data for Various Pollutants in Westside San Joaquin Water Quality Coalition, 2004-2009.
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 1 monitoring site [ 306ELK-Elkhorn Slough at Kirby Park]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 1/16/2007-2/20/2007.
Environmental Conditions: Central Coast Water Board Staff are not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: All data was collected following the Standard Operating Procedures and Data Quality Objectives outlined in the SWAMP QAMP, (Puckett, 2002). All data are flagged as appropriate.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Management Plan for the State of California's Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program. Sacramento, CA. State Water Resources Control Board. SWAMP. December 2002 (1st version)
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 73587, Ammonia
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 9386
 
Pollutant: Ammonia (Unionized)
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
Aquatic Life Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 12
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Regional Board Staff assessed CCAMP Salinas (Salinas) data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 12 samples exceed the criterion for Ammonia as N, Unionized.
Data Reference: Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Salinas Toxicity data
  Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Water Quality Data_file1
  Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Water Quality Data_file2
  Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Water Quality Data_file3
 
SWAMP Data: SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan, Central Coast Basin General Objective, Chapter III, Section II.A.2 (General Objectives for all Inland Surface Waters, Enclosed Bays and Estuaries) states that the discharge of wastes shall not cause concentrations of unionized ammonia (NH3) to exceed 0.025 mg/l (as N) in receiving waters (page III-4) .
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) - Central Coast Region (Region 3)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 1 monitoring site [ 306ELK-Elkhorn Slough at Kirby Park]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 1/23/2006-12/18/2006. Salinas watershed is one of five annual rotation areas that are monitored for conventional pollutants by CCAMP staff monthly for one year. Toxicity monitoring is conducted twice during the rotation year (winter and summer) at a subset of sites.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might effect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: All data was collected following the Standard Operating Procedures and Data Quality Objectives outlined in the SWAMP QAMP, (Puckett, 2002). QA data are included in submission. All data are flagged as appropriate.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
 
DECISION ID
73534
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
Pollutant: Chlorophyll-a
Final Listing Decision: Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)(2016)
Revision Status Original
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: This pollutant is being considered for placement on the CWA 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.

Ten lines of evidence are available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. Forty-four of the 443 samples exceed the evaluation guideline used to interpret the narrative water quality objective for bio-stimulation risk.

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 CWA 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. Forty-four of the 443 samples exceed the evaluation guideline 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.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 73534, Chlorophyll-a
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 52813
 
Pollutant: Chlorophyll-a
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 96
Number of Exceedances: 10
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Water Board Central Coast Water Board Staff assessed public submissions data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 10 of 96 samples exceed the criterion for Chlorophyll a (lab).
Data Reference: Data from Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve Volunteer Monthly Water Quality Program, Jan. 2007-Jul. 2009
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Waters shall not contain biostimulatory substances in concentrations that promote aquatic growths to the extent that such growths cause nuisance or adversely affect beneficial uses (general objective for biostimulatory substances, Water Quality Control Plan, Central Coast Basin, Chapter III, Section II).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the Central Coastal Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: North Carolina Administrative code (NCAC), Title 15A - Environmental and Natural Resources, Subchapter 2B-Surface water and wetland standards, Rule 0211-Fresh surface water quality standards for class C waters (Class C is defined as freshwaters protected for secondary recreation, fishing, aquatic life including propagation and survival, and wildlife). Section 3(a) of Rule 0211 applies to all fresh surface waters and states that chlorophyll a is not to exceed 40 ug/L.
Guideline Reference: North Carolina standards, criteria, or toxic concentrations. Adopted per title 15A North Carolina Administrative Code subchapter 2B - Surface water and wetland standards
Guideline Reference: North Carolina standards, criteria, or toxic concentrations. Adopted per title 15A North Carolina Administrative Code subchapter 2B - Surface water and wetland standards
Guideline Reference: Water quality standards table
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 11 monitoring sites [ 306ELKAPC - Elkhorn Slough at Azevedo Pond, Central , 306ELKAPN - Elkhorn Slough at Azevedo Pond, North , 306ELKAPS - Elkhorn Slough at Azevedo Pond, South , 306ELKCAT - Elkhorn Slough at Cattail Swale , 306ELKHLE - Elkhorn Slough at Hudson's Landing East , 306ELKHLW - Elkhorn Slough at Hudson's Landing West , 306ELKKPD - Elkhorn Slough at Kirby Park Dock , 306ELKRBR - Elkhorn Slough at Reserve Bridge , 306ELKROK - Elkhorn Slough at Rookery Pond , 306ELKRSM - Elkhorn Slough at Reserve, South Marsh (Whistle Stop Lagoon) , 306ELKSTB - Elkhorn Slough at Strawberry Rd ]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 6/3/2008-7/7/2009.
Environmental Conditions: Central Coast Water Board Staff are not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: Data was collected following the Quality Assurance Project Plan for Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve's Volunteer Monthly Water Quality Program. Replicate data were identified in data and were qualified by RB Central Coast Water Board S
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan, Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve Volunteer Monthly Water Quality Program. May 15, 2009, Ver.1.3
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 73534, Chlorophyll-a
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 50098
 
Pollutant: Chlorophyll-a
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 2
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Water Board Staff assessed public submissions data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 2 samples exceed the criterion for Chlorophyll a.
Data Reference: Salinas Rotation field data 2007
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Waters shall not contain biostimulatory substances in concentrations that promote aquatic growths to the extent that such growths cause nuisance or adversely affect beneficial uses (general objective for biostimulatory substances, Water Quality Control Plan, Central Coast Basin, Chapter III, Section II).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Data for Various Pollutants in Westside San Joaquin Water Quality Coalition, 2004-2009.
 
Evaluation Guideline: North Carolina Administrative code (NCAC), Title 15A - Environmental and Natural Resources, Subchapter 2B-Surface water and wetland standards, Rule 0211-Fresh surface water quality standards for class C waters (Class C is defined as freshwaters protected for secondary recreation, fishing, aquatic life including propagation and survival, and wildlife). Section 3(a) of Rule 0211 applies to all fresh surface waters and states that chlorophyll a is not to exceed 40 ug/L.
Guideline Reference: North Carolina standards, criteria, or toxic concentrations. Adopted per title 15A North Carolina Administrative Code subchapter 2B - Surface water and wetland standards
Guideline Reference: Water quality standards table
Guideline Reference: North Carolina standards, criteria, or toxic concentrations. Adopted per title 15A North Carolina Administrative Code subchapter 2B - Surface water and wetland standards
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 1 monitoring site [ 306ELK-Elkhorn Slough at Kirby Park]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 1/16/2007-2/20/2007.
Environmental Conditions: Central Coast Water Board Staff are not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: All data was collected following the Standard Operating Procedures and Data Quality Objectives outlined in the SWAMP QAMP, (Puckett, 2002). All data are flagged as appropriate.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Management Plan for the State of California's Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program. Sacramento, CA. State Water Resources Control Board. SWAMP. December 2002 (1st version)
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 73534, Chlorophyll-a
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 15223
 
Pollutant: Chlorophyll-a
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
Aquatic Life Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 277
Number of Exceedances: 28
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Regional Board Staff assessed National Estuarine Research Reserve Monitoring Program (R3_ESNERR) data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 28 of 277 samples exceed the criterion for Chlorophyll a.
Data Reference: Final Data File used for assessment: ESNERR (Elkhorn Slough National Reserve) Field Data from 2006
  Final Data File used for assessment: ESNERR (Elkhorn Slough National Reserve) Water Quality Data from 2006
  Final Data File used for assessment: ESNERR (Elkhorn Slough National Reserve) Water Quality Data from 94-04
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Waters shall not contain biostimulatory substances in concentrations that promote aquatic growths to the extent that such growths cause nuisance or adversely affect beneficial uses (general objective for biostimulatory substances, Water Quality Control Plan, Central Coast Basin, Chapter III, Section II).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) - Central Coast Region (Region 3)
Objective/Criterion Reference: North Carolina standards, criteria, or toxic concentrations. Adopted per title 15A North Carolina Administrative Code subchapter 2B - Surface water and wetland standards
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water quality standards table
 
Evaluation Guideline: North Carolina Administrative code (NCAC), Title 15A - Environmental and Natural Resources, Subchapter 2B-Surface water and wetland standards, Rule 0211-Fresh surface water quality standards for class C waters (Class C is defined as freshwaters protected for secondary recreation, fishing, aquatic life including propagation and survival, and wildlife). Section 3(a) of Rule 0211 applies to all fresh surface waters and states that chlorophyll a is not to exceed 40 ug/L.
Guideline Reference: North Carolina standards, criteria, or toxic concentrations. Adopted per title 15A North Carolina Administrative Code subchapter 2B - Surface water and wetland standards
Guideline Reference: North Carolina standards, criteria, or toxic concentrations. Adopted per title 15A North Carolina Administrative Code subchapter 2B - Surface water and wetland standards
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 11 monitoring sites [ 306ELKRBR - Reserve Bridge, 306ELKSTB - Strawberry Rd, 306ELKKPD - Kirby Park, 306ELKAPC - Azevedo Pond, Central, 306ELKRSM - Reserve, South Marsh, 306ELKAPS - Azevedo Pond, South, 306ELKHLW - Hudson's Landing West, 306ELKAPN - Azevedo Pond, North, 306ELKHLE - Hudson's Landing East, 306ELKCAT - Cattail Swale, 306ELKROK - Rookery Pond]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 7/31/2001-10/10/2006.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might effect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: QAPP was adopted for work conducted since 2005. Prior to 2005 no QAPP was in place and data entry was completed by volunteers. Multiple errors were identified in data and were flagged by RB staff (in communication with Elkhorn Slough Program staff) prior to assessment of data.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 73534, Chlorophyll-a
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 52820
 
Pollutant: Chlorophyll-a
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 96
Number of Exceedances: 10
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Water Board Central Coast Water Board Staff assessed public submissions data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 10 of 96 samples exceed the criterion for Chlorophyll a (lab).
Data Reference: Data from Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve Volunteer Monthly Water Quality Program, Jan. 2007-Jul. 2009
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Waters shall not contain biostimulatory substances in concentrations that promote aquatic growths to the extent that such growths cause nuisance or adversely affect beneficial uses (general objective for biostimulatory substances, Water Quality Control Plan, Central Coast Basin, Chapter III, Section II).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the Central Coastal Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: North Carolina Administrative code (NCAC), Title 15A - Environmental and Natural Resources, Subchapter 2B-Surface water and wetland standards, Rule 0211-Fresh surface water quality standards for class C waters (Class C is defined as freshwaters protected for secondary recreation, fishing, aquatic life including propagation and survival, and wildlife). Section 3(a) of Rule 0211 applies to all fresh surface waters and states that chlorophyll a is not to exceed 40 ug/L.
Guideline Reference: North Carolina standards, criteria, or toxic concentrations. Adopted per title 15A North Carolina Administrative Code subchapter 2B - Surface water and wetland standards
Guideline Reference: North Carolina standards, criteria, or toxic concentrations. Adopted per title 15A North Carolina Administrative Code subchapter 2B - Surface water and wetland standards
Guideline Reference: Water quality standards table
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 11 monitoring sites [ 306ELKAPC - Elkhorn Slough at Azevedo Pond, Central , 306ELKAPN - Elkhorn Slough at Azevedo Pond, North , 306ELKAPS - Elkhorn Slough at Azevedo Pond, South , 306ELKCAT - Elkhorn Slough at Cattail Swale , 306ELKHLE - Elkhorn Slough at Hudson's Landing East , 306ELKHLW - Elkhorn Slough at Hudson's Landing West , 306ELKKPD - Elkhorn Slough at Kirby Park Dock , 306ELKRBR - Elkhorn Slough at Reserve Bridge , 306ELKROK - Elkhorn Slough at Rookery Pond , 306ELKRSM - Elkhorn Slough at Reserve, South Marsh (Whistle Stop Lagoon) , 306ELKSTB - Elkhorn Slough at Strawberry Rd ]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 6/3/2008-7/7/2009.
Environmental Conditions: Central Coast Water Board Staff are not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: Data was collected following the Quality Assurance Project Plan for Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve's Volunteer Monthly Water Quality Program. Replicate data were identified in data and were qualified by RB Central Coast Water Board S
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan, Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve Volunteer Monthly Water Quality Program. May 15, 2009, Ver.1.3
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 73534, Chlorophyll-a
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 9384
 
Pollutant: Chlorophyll-a
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
Aquatic Life Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 25
Number of Exceedances: 1
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Regional Board Staff assessed CCAMP Salinas (Salinas) data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 1 of 25 samples exceed the criterion for Chlorophyll a.
Data Reference: Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Salinas Toxicity data
  Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Water Quality Data_file1
  Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Water Quality Data_file2
  Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Water Quality Data_file3
 
SWAMP Data: SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Waters shall not contain biostimulatory substances in concentrations that promote aquatic growths to the extent that such growths cause nuisance or adversely affect beneficial uses (general objective for biostimulatory substances, Water Quality Control Plan, Central Coast Basin, Chapter III, Section II).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) - Central Coast Region (Region 3)
Objective/Criterion Reference: North Carolina standards, criteria, or toxic concentrations. Adopted per title 15A North Carolina Administrative Code subchapter 2B - Surface water and wetland standards
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water quality standards table
 
Evaluation Guideline: North Carolina Administrative code (NCAC), Title 15A - Environmental and Natural Resources, Subchapter 2B-Surface water and wetland standards, Rule 0211-Fresh surface water quality standards for class C waters (Class C is defined as freshwaters protected for secondary recreation, fishing, aquatic life including propagation and survival, and wildlife). Section 3(a) of Rule 0211 applies to all fresh surface waters and states that chlorophyll a is not to exceed 40 ug/L.
Guideline Reference: North Carolina standards, criteria, or toxic concentrations. Adopted per title 15A North Carolina Administrative Code subchapter 2B - Surface water and wetland standards
Guideline Reference: North Carolina standards, criteria, or toxic concentrations. Adopted per title 15A North Carolina Administrative Code subchapter 2B - Surface water and wetland standards
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 1 monitoring site [ 306ELK-Elkhorn Slough at Kirby Park]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 3/29/1999-12/18/2006. Salinas watershed is one of five annual rotation areas that are monitored for conventional pollutants by CCAMP staff monthly for one year. Toxicity monitoring is conducted twice during the rotation year (winter and summer) at a subset of sites.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might effect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: All data was collected following the Standard Operating Procedures and Data Quality Objectives outlined in the SWAMP QAMP, (Puckett, 2002). QA data are included in submission. All data are flagged as appropriate.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 73534, Chlorophyll-a
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 52921
 
Pollutant: Chlorophyll-a
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 43
Number of Exceedances: 5
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Water Board Central Coast Water Board Staff assessed public submissions data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 5 of 43 samples exceed the criterion for Chlorophyll a.
Data Reference: Data from Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve Volunteer Monthly Water Quality Program, Jan. 2007-Jul. 2009
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Waters shall not contain biostimulatory substances in concentrations that promote aquatic growths to the extent that such growths cause nuisance or adversely affect beneficial uses (general objective for biostimulatory substances, Water Quality Control Plan, Central Coast Basin, Chapter III, Section II).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the Central Coastal Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: North Carolina Administrative code (NCAC), Title 15A - Environmental and Natural Resources, Subchapter 2B-Surface water and wetland standards, Rule 0211-Fresh surface water quality standards for class C waters (Class C is defined as freshwaters protected for secondary recreation, fishing, aquatic life including propagation and survival, and wildlife). Section 3(a) of Rule 0211 applies to all fresh surface waters and states that chlorophyll a is not to exceed 40 ug/L.
Guideline Reference: North Carolina standards, criteria, or toxic concentrations. Adopted per title 15A North Carolina Administrative Code subchapter 2B - Surface water and wetland standards
Guideline Reference: North Carolina standards, criteria, or toxic concentrations. Adopted per title 15A North Carolina Administrative Code subchapter 2B - Surface water and wetland standards
Guideline Reference: Water quality standards table
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 11 monitoring sites [ 306ELKAPC - Elkhorn Slough at Azevedo Pond, Central , 306ELKAPN - Elkhorn Slough at Azevedo Pond, North , 306ELKAPS - Elkhorn Slough at Azevedo Pond, South , 306ELKCAT - Elkhorn Slough at Cattail Swale , 306ELKHLE - Elkhorn Slough at Hudson's Landing East , 306ELKHLW - Elkhorn Slough at Hudson's Landing West , 306ELKKPD - Elkhorn Slough at Kirby Park Dock , 306ELKRBR - Elkhorn Slough at Reserve Bridge , 306ELKROK - Elkhorn Slough at Rookery Pond , 306ELKRSM - Elkhorn Slough at Reserve, South Marsh (Whistle Stop Lagoon) , 306ELKSTB - Elkhorn Slough at Strawberry Rd ]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 1/8/2007-7/10/2007.
Environmental Conditions: Central Coast Water Board Staff are not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: Data was collected following the Quality Assurance Project Plan for Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve's Volunteer Monthly Water Quality Program. Replicate data were identified in data and were qualified by RB Central Coast Water Board S
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan, Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve Volunteer Monthly Water Quality Program. May 15, 2009, Ver.1.3
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 73534, Chlorophyll-a
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 9383
 
Pollutant: Chlorophyll-a
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
Aquatic Life Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 25
Number of Exceedances: 1
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Regional Board Staff assessed CCAMP Salinas (Salinas) data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 1 of 25 samples exceed the criterion for Chlorophyll a.
Data Reference: Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Salinas Toxicity data
  Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Water Quality Data_file1
  Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Water Quality Data_file2
  Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Water Quality Data_file3
 
SWAMP Data: SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Waters shall not contain biostimulatory substances in concentrations that promote aquatic growths to the extent that such growths cause nuisance or adversely affect beneficial uses (general objective for biostimulatory substances, Water Quality Control Plan, Central Coast Basin, Chapter III, Section II).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) - Central Coast Region (Region 3)
Objective/Criterion Reference: North Carolina standards, criteria, or toxic concentrations. Adopted per title 15A North Carolina Administrative Code subchapter 2B - Surface water and wetland standards
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water quality standards table
 
Evaluation Guideline: North Carolina Administrative code (NCAC), Title 15A - Environmental and Natural Resources, Subchapter 2B-Surface water and wetland standards, Rule 0211-Fresh surface water quality standards for class C waters (Class C is defined as freshwaters protected for secondary recreation, fishing, aquatic life including propagation and survival, and wildlife). Section 3(a) of Rule 0211 applies to all fresh surface waters and states that chlorophyll a is not to exceed 40 ug/L.
Guideline Reference: North Carolina standards, criteria, or toxic concentrations. Adopted per title 15A North Carolina Administrative Code subchapter 2B - Surface water and wetland standards
Guideline Reference: North Carolina standards, criteria, or toxic concentrations. Adopted per title 15A North Carolina Administrative Code subchapter 2B - Surface water and wetland standards
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 1 monitoring site [ 306ELK-Elkhorn Slough at Kirby Park]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 3/29/1999-12/18/2006. Salinas watershed is one of five annual rotation areas that are monitored for conventional pollutants by CCAMP staff monthly for one year. Toxicity monitoring is conducted twice during the rotation year (winter and summer) at a subset of sites.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might effect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: All data was collected following the Standard Operating Procedures and Data Quality Objectives outlined in the SWAMP QAMP, (Puckett, 2002). QA data are included in submission. All data are flagged as appropriate.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 73534, Chlorophyll-a
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 52928
 
Pollutant: Chlorophyll-a
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 43
Number of Exceedances: 5
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Water Board Central Coast Water Board Staff assessed public submissions data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 5 of 43 samples exceed the criterion for Chlorophyll a.
Data Reference: Data from Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve Volunteer Monthly Water Quality Program, Jan. 2007-Jul. 2009
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Waters shall not contain biostimulatory substances in concentrations that promote aquatic growths to the extent that such growths cause nuisance or adversely affect beneficial uses (general objective for biostimulatory substances, Water Quality Control Plan, Central Coast Basin, Chapter III, Section II).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the Central Coastal Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: North Carolina Administrative code (NCAC), Title 15A - Environmental and Natural Resources, Subchapter 2B-Surface water and wetland standards, Rule 0211-Fresh surface water quality standards for class C waters (Class C is defined as freshwaters protected for secondary recreation, fishing, aquatic life including propagation and survival, and wildlife). Section 3(a) of Rule 0211 applies to all fresh surface waters and states that chlorophyll a is not to exceed 40 ug/L.
Guideline Reference: North Carolina standards, criteria, or toxic concentrations. Adopted per title 15A North Carolina Administrative Code subchapter 2B - Surface water and wetland standards
Guideline Reference: North Carolina standards, criteria, or toxic concentrations. Adopted per title 15A North Carolina Administrative Code subchapter 2B - Surface water and wetland standards
Guideline Reference: Water quality standards table
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 11 monitoring sites [ 306ELKAPC - Elkhorn Slough at Azevedo Pond, Central , 306ELKAPN - Elkhorn Slough at Azevedo Pond, North , 306ELKAPS - Elkhorn Slough at Azevedo Pond, South , 306ELKCAT - Elkhorn Slough at Cattail Swale , 306ELKHLE - Elkhorn Slough at Hudson's Landing East , 306ELKHLW - Elkhorn Slough at Hudson's Landing West , 306ELKKPD - Elkhorn Slough at Kirby Park Dock , 306ELKRBR - Elkhorn Slough at Reserve Bridge , 306ELKROK - Elkhorn Slough at Rookery Pond , 306ELKRSM - Elkhorn Slough at Reserve, South Marsh (Whistle Stop Lagoon) , 306ELKSTB - Elkhorn Slough at Strawberry Rd ]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 1/8/2007-7/10/2007.
Environmental Conditions: Central Coast Water Board Staff are not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: Data was collected following the Quality Assurance Project Plan for Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve's Volunteer Monthly Water Quality Program. Replicate data were identified in data and were qualified by RB Central Coast Water Board S
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan, Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve Volunteer Monthly Water Quality Program. May 15, 2009, Ver.1.3
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 73534, Chlorophyll-a
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 15209
 
Pollutant: Chlorophyll-a
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
Aquatic Life Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 277
Number of Exceedances: 28
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Regional Board Staff assessed National Estuarine Research Reserve Monitoring Program (R3_ESNERR) data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 28 of 277 samples exceed the criterion for Chlorophyll a.
Data Reference: Final Data File used for assessment: ESNERR (Elkhorn Slough National Reserve) Field Data from 2006
  Final Data File used for assessment: ESNERR (Elkhorn Slough National Reserve) Water Quality Data from 2006
  Final Data File used for assessment: ESNERR (Elkhorn Slough National Reserve) Water Quality Data from 94-04
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Waters shall not contain biostimulatory substances in concentrations that promote aquatic growths to the extent that such growths cause nuisance or adversely affect beneficial uses (general objective for biostimulatory substances, Water Quality Control Plan, Central Coast Basin, Chapter III, Section II).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) - Central Coast Region (Region 3)
Objective/Criterion Reference: North Carolina standards, criteria, or toxic concentrations. Adopted per title 15A North Carolina Administrative Code subchapter 2B - Surface water and wetland standards
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water quality standards table
 
Evaluation Guideline: North Carolina Administrative code (NCAC), Title 15A - Environmental and Natural Resources, Subchapter 2B-Surface water and wetland standards, Rule 0211-Fresh surface water quality standards for class C waters (Class C is defined as freshwaters protected for secondary recreation, fishing, aquatic life including propagation and survival, and wildlife). Section 3(a) of Rule 0211 applies to all fresh surface waters and states that chlorophyll a is not to exceed 40 ug/L.
Guideline Reference: North Carolina standards, criteria, or toxic concentrations. Adopted per title 15A North Carolina Administrative Code subchapter 2B - Surface water and wetland standards
Guideline Reference: North Carolina standards, criteria, or toxic concentrations. Adopted per title 15A North Carolina Administrative Code subchapter 2B - Surface water and wetland standards
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 11 monitoring sites [ 306ELKRBR - Reserve Bridge, 306ELKSTB - Strawberry Rd, 306ELKKPD - Kirby Park, 306ELKAPC - Azevedo Pond, Central, 306ELKRSM - Reserve, South Marsh, 306ELKAPS - Azevedo Pond, South, 306ELKHLW - Hudson's Landing West, 306ELKAPN - Azevedo Pond, North, 306ELKHLE - Hudson's Landing East, 306ELKCAT - Cattail Swale, 306ELKROK - Rookery Pond]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 7/31/2001-10/10/2006.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might effect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: QAPP was adopted for work conducted since 2005. Prior to 2005 no QAPP was in place and data entry was completed by volunteers. Multiple errors were identified in data and were flagged by RB staff (in communication with Elkhorn Slough Program staff) prior to assessment of data.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 73534, Chlorophyll-a
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 50109
 
Pollutant: Chlorophyll-a
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 2
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Water Board Staff assessed public submissions data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 2 samples exceed the criterion for Chlorophyll a.
Data Reference: Salinas Rotation field data 2007
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Waters shall not contain biostimulatory substances in concentrations that promote aquatic growths to the extent that such growths cause nuisance or adversely affect beneficial uses (general objective for biostimulatory substances, Water Quality Control Plan, Central Coast Basin, Chapter III, Section II).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Data for Various Pollutants in Westside San Joaquin Water Quality Coalition, 2004-2009.
 
Evaluation Guideline: North Carolina Administrative code (NCAC), Title 15A - Environmental and Natural Resources, Subchapter 2B-Surface water and wetland standards, Rule 0211-Fresh surface water quality standards for class C waters (Class C is defined as freshwaters protected for secondary recreation, fishing, aquatic life including propagation and survival, and wildlife). Section 3(a) of Rule 0211 applies to all fresh surface waters and states that chlorophyll a is not to exceed 40 ug/L.
Guideline Reference: North Carolina standards, criteria, or toxic concentrations. Adopted per title 15A North Carolina Administrative Code subchapter 2B - Surface water and wetland standards
Guideline Reference: Water quality standards table
Guideline Reference: North Carolina standards, criteria, or toxic concentrations. Adopted per title 15A North Carolina Administrative Code subchapter 2B - Surface water and wetland standards
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 1 monitoring site [ 306ELK-Elkhorn Slough at Kirby Park]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 1/16/2007-2/20/2007.
Environmental Conditions: Central Coast Water Board Staff are not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: All data was collected following the Standard Operating Procedures and Data Quality Objectives outlined in the SWAMP QAMP, (Puckett, 2002). All data are flagged as appropriate.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Management Plan for the State of California's Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program. Sacramento, CA. State Water Resources Control Board. SWAMP. December 2002 (1st version)
 
 
DECISION ID
73623
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
Pollutant: Enterococcus
Final Listing Decision: Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)(2016)
Revision Status Original
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: No new data were assessed.

This pollutant is being considered for placement on the section 303(d) list under section 3.3 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.3 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. One of the 44 samples exceed the water quality objective for Water Contact but none of the samples exceed the Non-Contact Recreation Basin Plan Objective for Fecal Coliform as it is applies to the Enterococcus data.

Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is sufficient justification against placing this water segment-pollutant combination on the section 303(d) list in the Water Quality Limited Segments category.

This conclusion is based on the staff findings that:
1. The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy.
2. The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy.
3. One of the 44 samples exceed the water quality objective for Water Contact but none of the samples exceed the Non-Contact Recreation Basin Plan Objective for Fecal Coliform as it is applies to the Enterococcus data. Neither of these 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: This is a decision previously approved by the State Water Resources Control Board and the USEPA. No new data were assessed by the Regional Board for the current cycle. The decision has not changed.
 
State Board Review of Regional Board Conclusion and Recommendation:
 
State Board Decision Recommendation: After review of this Regional Board decision, SWRCB staff recommend the decision be approved by the State Board.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 73623, Enterococcus
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 14215
 
Pollutant: Enterococcus
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Non-Contact Recreation
 
Number of Samples: 44
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PATHOGEN MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Regional Board Staff assessed Central Coast Long Term Environmental Assessment Program (R3_CCLEAN) data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 44 samples exceed the criterion for Enterococci.
Data Reference: Final Data File used for assessment: CCLEAN (Central Coast Long Term Environmental Assessment Program data) Water Quality Data
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Water Quality Control Plan, Central Coast Basin objective for non-contact water recreation uses (Section II.A.2. Objectives for All Inland Surface Waters, Enclosed Bays, and Estuaries, II.A.2.a) states the following: Fecal coliform concentration, based on a minimum of not less than five samples for any 30-day period, shall not exceed a log mean of 2000/100 ml, nor shall more than ten percent of samples collected during any 30-day period exceed 4000/100 ml. Enterococcus is a fecal coliform.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) - Central Coast Region (Region 3)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 2 monitoring sites [ 308ELK_CCL - Elkhorn Slough at N. Kirkby Park, 306ELJ_CCL - Elkhorn Slough at N. Jetty]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 1/22/2002-12/2/2003.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might effect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: EPA Approved QAPP.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 73623, Enterococcus
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 14214
 
Pollutant: Enterococcus
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Water Contact Recreation
 
Number of Samples: 44
Number of Exceedances: 1
 
Data and Information Type: PATHOGEN MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Regional Board Staff assessed Central Coast Long Term Environmental Assessment Program (R3_CCLEAN) data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 1 of 44 samples exceed the EPA criterion for Enterococci.
Data Reference: Final Data File used for assessment: CCLEAN (Central Coast Long Term Environmental Assessment Program data) Water Quality Data
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: USEPA Ambient Water Quality Criteria for Bacteria -1986.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Ambient Water Quality Criteria for Bacteria - 1986. EPA440/5-84-002
 
Evaluation Guideline: Single sample maximum allowable density for Enterococci in freshwater is 61 MPN/100mL (as stated in Table 4, page 15)
Guideline Reference: Ambient Water Quality Criteria for Bacteria - 1986. EPA440/5-84-002
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 2 monitoring sites [ 308ELK_CCL - Elkhorn Slough at N. Kirkby Park, 306ELJ_CCL - Elkhorn Slough at N. Jetty].
Temporal Representation: Data was collected monthly over the time period 1/22/2002-12/2/2003.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might effect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: EPA Approved QAPP.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
 
DECISION ID
73550
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
Pollutant: Escherichia coli (E. coli)
Final Listing Decision: Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)(2016)
Revision Status Original
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: This pollutant is being considered for placement on the section 303(d) list under sections 3.2 and 3.3 of the Listing Policy. Under these sections a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status.

Seven lines of evidence are available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. Ten of the 72 samples exceed the water quality objective for contact recreation (i.e. swimming) but none of the samples exceed the water quality objective for non-contact recreation.

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 CWA 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. Ten of the 72 samples exceed the water quality objective for contact recreation (i.e. swimming) but none of the samples exceed the water quality objective for non-contact recreation 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.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 73550, Escherichia coli (E. coli)
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 50083
 
Pollutant: Escherichia coli (E. coli)
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Water Contact Recreation
 
Number of Samples: 1
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PATHOGEN MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Water Board Staff assessed public submissions data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 1 samples exceed the criterion for Escherichia coli.
Data Reference: Salinas Rotation field data 2007
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: USEPA Ambient Water Quality Criteria for Bacteria -1986.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Ambient Water Quality Criteria for Bacteria - 1986. EPA440/5-84-002
 
Evaluation Guideline: Single sample maximum allowable density for E. coli in freshwater is 235 MPN/100mL (as stated in Table 4, page 15 of the USEPA Ambient Water Quality Criteria for Bacteria -1986).
Guideline Reference: Ambient Water Quality Criteria for Bacteria - 1986. EPA440/5-84-002
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 1 monitoring site [ 306ELK-Elkhorn Slough at Kirby Park]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected on a single day 2/20/2007.
Environmental Conditions: Central Coast Water Board Staff are not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: All data was collected following the Standard Operating Procedures and Data Quality Objectives outlined in the SWAMP QAMP, (Puckett, 2002). All data are flagged as appropriate.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Management Plan for the State of California's Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program. Sacramento, CA. State Water Resources Control Board. SWAMP. December 2002 (1st version)
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 73550, Escherichia coli (E. coli)
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 18420
 
Pollutant: Escherichia coli (E. coli)
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Water Contact Recreation
 
Number of Samples: 15
Number of Exceedances: 7
 
Data and Information Type: PATHOGEN MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Regional Board Staff assessed Coastal Watershed Council (Snapshot day monitoring) (R3_Snap) data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 7 of 15 samples exceed the criterion for Escherichia coli.
Data Reference: Final Data File used for assessment: Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Volunteer Monitoring Network Data. 2003-2006
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: USEPA Ambient Water Quality Criteria for Bacteria -1986.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Ambient Water Quality Criteria for Bacteria - 1986. EPA440/5-84-002
 
Evaluation Guideline: Single sample maximum allowable density for E. coli in freshwater is 235 MPN/100mL (as stated in Table 4, page 15)
Guideline Reference: Ambient Water Quality Criteria for Bacteria - 1986. EPA440/5-84-002
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 4 monitoring sites [ 306-ELKHO-34 - Elkhorn Slough, 306-ELKHO-32 - Elkhorn Slough Hudson's Landing, 306-ELKHO-33 - Elkhorn Slough South Marsh Bridge, 306-ELKHO-31 - Elkhorn Slough Kirby Park]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 5/17/2003-5/6/2006. Coastal Watershed Council Snapshot Day Monitoring is conducted annually.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might effect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: State Board approved QAPP. Multiple errors were identified in data and were flagged or fixed by RB staff (in communication with Project staff) prior to assessment of data.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 73550, Escherichia coli (E. coli)
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 11168
 
Pollutant: Escherichia coli (E. coli)
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Non-Contact Recreation
 
Number of Samples: 12
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PATHOGEN MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Regional Board Staff assessed CCAMP Salinas (Salinas) data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 12 samples exceed the criterion for Escherichia coli.
Data Reference: Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Salinas Toxicity data
  Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Water Quality Data_file1
  Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Water Quality Data_file2
  Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Water Quality Data_file3
 
SWAMP Data: SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Water Quality Control Plan, Central Coast Basin objective for non-contact water recreation uses (Section II.A.2. Objectives for All Inland Surface Waters, Enclosed Bays, and Estuaries, II.A.2.a) states the following: Fecal coliform concentration, based on a minimum of not less than five samples for any 30-day period, shall not exceed a log mean of 2000/100 ml, nor shall more than ten percent of samples collected during any 30-day period exceed 4000/100 ml. E. coli is a fecal coliform.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) - Central Coast Region (Region 3)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 1 monitoring site [ 306ELK-Elkhorn Slough at Kirby Park]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 1/23/2006-12/18/2006. Salinas watershed is one of five annual rotation areas that are monitored for conventional pollutants by CCAMP staff monthly for one year. Toxicity monitoring is conducted twice during the rotation year (winter and summer) at a subset of sites.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might effect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: All data was collected following the Standard Operating Procedures and Data Quality Objectives outlined in the SWAMP QAMP, (Puckett, 2002). QA data are included in submission. All data are flagged as appropriate.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 73550, Escherichia coli (E. coli)
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 18421
 
Pollutant: Escherichia coli (E. coli)
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Non-Contact Recreation
 
Number of Samples: 15
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PATHOGEN MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Regional Board Staff assessed Coastal Watershed Council (Snapshot day monitoring) (R3_Snap) data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 15 samples exceed the criterion for Escherichia coli.
Data Reference: Final Data File used for assessment: Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Volunteer Monitoring Network Data. 2003-2006
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Water Quality Control Plan, Central Coast Basin objective for non-contact water recreation uses (Section II.A.2. Objectives for All Inland Surface Waters, Enclosed Bays, and Estuaries, II.A.2.a) states the following: Fecal coliform concentration, based on a minimum of not less than five samples for any 30-day period, shall not exceed a log mean of 2000/100 ml, nor shall more than ten percent of samples collected during any 30-day period exceed 4000/100 ml. E. coli is a fecal coliform.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) - Central Coast Region (Region 3)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 4 monitoring sites [ 306-ELKHO-34 - Elkhorn Slough, 306-ELKHO-32 - Elkhorn Slough Hudson's Landing, 306-ELKHO-33 - Elkhorn Slough South Marsh Bridge, 306-ELKHO-31 - Elkhorn Slough Kirby Park]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 5/17/2003-5/6/2006. Coastal Watershed Council Snapshot Day Monitoring is conducted annually.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might effect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: State Board approved QAPP. Multiple errors were identified in data and were flagged or fixed by RB staff (in communication with Project staff) prior to assessment of data.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 73550, Escherichia coli (E. coli)
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 14071
 
Pollutant: Escherichia coli (E. coli)
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Non-Contact Recreation
 
Number of Samples: 44
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PATHOGEN MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Regional Board Staff assessed Central Coast Long Term Environmental Assessment Program (R3_CCLEAN) data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 44 samples exceed the criterion for Escherichia coli.
Data Reference: Final Data File used for assessment: CCLEAN (Central Coast Long Term Environmental Assessment Program data) Water Quality Data
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Water Quality Control Plan, Central Coast Basin objective for non-contact water recreation uses (Section II.A.2. Objectives for All Inland Surface Waters, Enclosed Bays, and Estuaries, II.A.2.a) states the following: Fecal coliform concentration, based on a minimum of not less than five samples for any 30-day period, shall not exceed a log mean of 2000/100 ml, nor shall more than ten percent of samples collected during any 30-day period exceed 4000/100 ml. E. coli is a fecal coliform.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) - Central Coast Region (Region 3)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 2 monitoring sites [ 308ELK_CCL - Elkhorn Slough at N. Kirkby Park, 306ELJ_CCL - Elkhorn Slough at N. Jetty]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 1/22/2002-12/2/2003.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might effect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: EPA Approved QAPP.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 73550, Escherichia coli (E. coli)
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 14070
 
Pollutant: Escherichia coli (E. coli)
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Water Contact Recreation
 
Number of Samples: 44
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PATHOGEN MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Regional Board Staff assessed Central Coast Long Term Environmental Assessment Program (R3_CCLEAN) data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 44 samples exceed the criterion for Escherichia coli.
Data Reference: Final Data File used for assessment: CCLEAN (Central Coast Long Term Environmental Assessment Program data) Water Quality Data
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: USEPA Ambient Water Quality Criteria for Bacteria -1986.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Ambient Water Quality Criteria for Bacteria - 1986. EPA440/5-84-002
 
Evaluation Guideline: Single sample maximum allowable density for E. coli in freshwater is 235 MPN/100mL (as stated in Table 4, page 15)
Guideline Reference: Ambient Water Quality Criteria for Bacteria - 1986. EPA440/5-84-002
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 2 monitoring sites [ 308ELK_CCL - Elkhorn Slough at N. Kirkby Park, 306ELJ_CCL - Elkhorn Slough at N. Jetty]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 1/22/2002-12/2/2003.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might effect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: EPA Approved QAPP.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 73550, Escherichia coli (E. coli)
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 11167
 
Pollutant: Escherichia coli (E. coli)
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Water Contact Recreation
 
Number of Samples: 12
Number of Exceedances: 3
 
Data and Information Type: PATHOGEN MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Regional Board Staff assessed CCAMP Salinas (Salinas) data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 3 of 12 samples exceed the criterion for Escherichia coli.
Data Reference: Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Salinas Toxicity data
  Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Water Quality Data_file1
  Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Water Quality Data_file2
  Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Water Quality Data_file3
 
SWAMP Data: SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: USEPA Ambient Water Quality Criteria for Bacteria -1986.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Ambient Water Quality Criteria for Bacteria - 1986. EPA440/5-84-002
 
Evaluation Guideline: Single sample maximum allowable density for E. coli in freshwater is 235 MPN/100mL (as stated in Table 4, page 15)
Guideline Reference: Ambient Water Quality Criteria for Bacteria - 1986. EPA440/5-84-002
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 1 monitoring site [ 306ELK-Elkhorn Slough at Kirby Park]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 1/23/2006-12/18/2006. Salinas watershed is one of five annual rotation areas that are monitored for conventional pollutants by CCAMP staff monthly for one year. Toxicity monitoring is conducted twice during the rotation year (winter and summer) at a subset of sites.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might effect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: All data was collected following the Standard Operating Procedures and Data Quality Objectives outlined in the SWAMP QAMP, (Puckett, 2002). QA data are included in submission. All data are flagged as appropriate.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
 
DECISION ID
81099
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
Pollutant: Fecal Coliform
Final Listing Decision: Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)(2016)
Revision Status Original
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: This pollutant is being considered for placement on the section 303(d) list under sections 3.2 and 3.3 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.3 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. Two of the 21 samples exceed the water quality objective for contact recreation (i.e. swimming) and none of the samples exceed the water quality objective for non-contact recreation.

This sample size is insufficient to determine, with the power and confidence of the Listing Policy, the applicable beneficial use support rating. A minimum of 26 samples is needed to determine if a beneficial use is supported and a minimum of five exceedances is needed to determine if beneficial uses are not supported using table 3.2. Therefore, the use support rating is set to 'insufficient information'.

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 CWA 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. Two of the 21 samples exceed the water quality objective for contact recreation (i.e. swimming) and none of the samples exceed the water quality objective for non-contact recreation 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.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 81099, Fecal Coliform
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 11166
 
Pollutant: Fecal Coliform
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Non-Contact Recreation
 
Number of Samples: 19
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PATHOGEN MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Regional Board Staff assessed CCAMP Salinas (Salinas) data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 19 samples exceed the criterion for Coliform, Fecal.
Data Reference: Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Water Quality Data_file1
  Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Water Quality Data_file2
  Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Water Quality Data_file3
  Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Salinas Toxicity data
 
SWAMP Data: SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Water Quality Control Plan, Central Coast Basin objective for non-contact water recreation uses (Section II.A.2. Objectives for All Inland Surface Waters, Enclosed Bays, and Estuaries, II.A.2.a) states the following: Fecal coliform concentration, based on a minimum of not less than five samples for any 30-day period, shall not exceed a log mean of 2000/100 ml, nor shall more than ten percent of samples collected during any 30-day period exceed 4000/100 ml.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) - Central Coast Region (Region 3)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 1 monitoring site [ 306ELK-Elkhorn Slough at Kirby Park]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 6/1/1999-12/18/2006. Salinas watershed is one of five annual rotation areas that are monitored for conventional pollutants by CCAMP staff monthly for one year. Toxicity monitoring is conducted twice during the rotation year (winter and summer) at a subset of sites.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might effect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: All data was collected following the Standard Operating Procedures and Data Quality Objectives outlined in the SWAMP QAMP, (Puckett, 2002). QA data are included in submission. All data are flagged as appropriate.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 81099, Fecal Coliform
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 50072
 
Pollutant: Fecal Coliform
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Water Contact Recreation
 
Number of Samples: 2
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PATHOGEN MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Water Board Staff assessed public submissions data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 2 samples exceed the criterion for Coliform, Fecal.
Data Reference: Salinas Rotation field data 2007
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Water Quality Control Plan, Central Coast Basin objective for water contact recreation uses (Section II.A.2. Objectives for All Inland Surface Waters, Enclosed Bays, and Estuaries, II.A.2.a) states the following: Fecal coliform concentration, based on a minimum of not less than five samples for any 30-day period, shall not exceed a log mean of 200 MPN/100 ml, nor shall more than ten percent of total samples during any 30-day period exceed 400 MPN/100 ml.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Data for Various Pollutants in Westside San Joaquin Water Quality Coalition, 2004-2009.
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 1 monitoring site [ 306ELK-Elkhorn Slough at Kirby Park]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 1/16/2007-2/20/2007.
Environmental Conditions: Central Coast Water Board Staff are not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: All data was collected following the Standard Operating Procedures and Data Quality Objectives outlined in the SWAMP QAMP, (Puckett, 2002). All data are flagged as appropriate.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Management Plan for the State of California's Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program. Sacramento, CA. State Water Resources Control Board. SWAMP. December 2002 (1st version)
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 81099, Fecal Coliform
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 50085
 
Pollutant: Fecal Coliform
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Non-Contact Recreation
 
Number of Samples: 2
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PATHOGEN MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Water Board Staff assessed public submissions data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 2 samples exceed the criterion for Coliform, Fecal.
Data Reference: Salinas Rotation field data 2007
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Water Quality Control Plan, Central Coast Basin objective for non-contact water recreation uses (Section II.A.2. Objectives for All Inland Surface Waters, Enclosed Bays, and Estuaries, II.A.2.a) states the following: Fecal coliform concentration, based on a minimum of not less than five samples for any 30-day period, shall not exceed a log mean of 2000/100 ml, nor shall more than ten percent of samples collected during any 30-day period exceed 4000/100 ml.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Data for Various Pollutants in Westside San Joaquin Water Quality Coalition, 2004-2009.
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 1 monitoring site [ 306ELK-Elkhorn Slough at Kirby Park]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 1/16/2007-2/20/2007.
Environmental Conditions: Central Coast Water Board Staff are not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: All data was collected following the Standard Operating Procedures and Data Quality Objectives outlined in the SWAMP QAMP, (Puckett, 2002). All data are flagged as appropriate.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Management Plan for the State of California's Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program. Sacramento, CA. State Water Resources Control Board. SWAMP. December 2002 (1st version)
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 81099, Fecal Coliform
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 11165
 
Pollutant: Fecal Coliform
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Water Contact Recreation
 
Number of Samples: 19
Number of Exceedances: 2
 
Data and Information Type: PATHOGEN MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Regional Board Staff assessed CCAMP Salinas (Salinas) data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 2 of 19 samples exceed the criterion for Coliform, Fecal.
Data Reference: Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Salinas Toxicity data
  Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Water Quality Data_file1
  Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Water Quality Data_file2
  Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Water Quality Data_file3
 
SWAMP Data: SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Water Quality Control Plan, Central Coast Basin objective for water contact recreation uses (Section II.A.2. Objectives for All Inland Surface Waters, Enclosed Bays, and Estuaries, II.A.2.a) states the following: Fecal coliform concentration, based on a minimum of not less than five samples for any 30-day period, shall not exceed a log mean of 200 MPN/100 ml, nor shall more than ten percent of total samples during any 30-day period exceed 400 MPN/100 ml.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) - Central Coast Region (Region 3)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 1 monitoring site [ 306ELK-Elkhorn Slough at Kirby Park]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 6/1/1999-12/18/2006. Salinas watershed is one of five annual rotation areas that are monitored for conventional pollutants by CCAMP staff monthly for one year. Toxicity monitoring is conducted twice during the rotation year (winter and summer) at a subset of sites.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might effect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: All data was collected following the Standard Operating Procedures and Data Quality Objectives outlined in the SWAMP QAMP, (Puckett, 2002). QA data are included in submission. All data are flagged as appropriate.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
 
DECISION ID
74023
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
Pollutant: Temperature, water
Final Listing Decision: Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)(2016)
Revision Status Original
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: This pollutant is being considered for placement on the CWA 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.

Temperature Evaluation Guideline (Moyle 1976) is not relevant for this water body because based on the recent publication (Steelhead/Rainbow Trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) Resources South of the Golden Gate, California (Becker, G.S and I.J Reining, October 2008), steelhead populations have not been documented in the Elkhorn Slough.

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 CWA 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. Temperature Evaluation Guideline (Moyle 1976) is not relevant for this water body.
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 Temperature Evaluation Guideline (Moyle 1976) is not relevant for this waterbody as no known steelhead populations have been documented there.
 
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.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 74023, Temperature, water
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 18690
 
Pollutant: Temperature, water
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
Aquatic Life Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 14
Number of Exceedances: 1
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Regional Board Staff assessed Coastal Watershed Council (Snapshot day monitoring) (R3_Snap) data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 1 of 14 samples exceed the criterion for Water Temperature.
Data Reference: Final Data File used for assessment: Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Volunteer Monitoring Network Data. 2003-2006
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Natural receiving water temperature of intrastate waters shall not be altered unless it can be demonstrated to the satisfaction of the Regional Board that such alteration in temperature does not adversely affect beneficial uses (General Objective in Water Quality Control Plan, Central Coast Basin, Chapter III, Section II.A.2 Objectives for all Inland Surface Waters, Enclosed Bays and Estuaries).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) - Central Coast Region (Region 3)
 
Evaluation Guideline: Inland Fishes of California (Moyle 1976) states that for rainbow trout the optimum range for growth and completion of most life stages is 13-21 degrees C (page 129).
Guideline Reference: Inland Fishes of California
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 4 monitoring sites [ 306-ELKHO-34 - Elkhorn Slough, 306-ELKHO-32 - Elkhorn Slough Hudson's Landing, 306-ELKHO-33 - Elkhorn Slough South Marsh Bridge, 306-ELKHO-31 - Elkhorn Slough Kirby Park]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 5/17/2003-5/6/2006. Coastal Watershed Council Snapshot Day Monitoring is conducted annually.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might effect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: State Board approved QAPP. Multiple errors were identified in data and were flagged or fixed by RB staff (in communication with Project staff) prior to assessment of data.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 74023, Temperature, water
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 12967
 
Pollutant: Temperature, water
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
Aquatic Life Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 3
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Regional Board Staff assessed CCAMP Diurnal Dissolved Oxygen Sampling (DO) data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 3 samples exceed the criterion for Water Temperature.
Data Reference: Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Water Quality Data_file1
  Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Water Quality Data_file2
  Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Water Quality Data_file3
 
SWAMP Data: SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Natural receiving water temperature of intrastate waters shall not be altered unless it can be demonstrated to the satisfaction of the Regional Board that such alteration in temperature does not adversely affect beneficial uses (General Objective in Water Quality Control Plan, Central Coast Basin, Chapter III, Section II.A.2 Objectives for all Inland Surface Waters, Enclosed Bays and Estuaries).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) - Central Coast Region (Region 3)
 
Evaluation Guideline: Inland Fishes of California (Moyle 1976) states that for rainbow trout the optimum range for growth and completion of most life stages is 13-21 degrees C (page 129).
Guideline Reference: Inland Fishes of California
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 1 monitoring site [ 306ELK-Elkhorn Slough at Kirby Park]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 7/6/1999-10/6/1999. Diurnal monitoring conducted in summer months at all CCAMP monitoring sites.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might effect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: All data was collected following the Standard Operating Procedures and Data Quality Objectives outlined in the SWAMP QAMP, (Puckett, 2002). QA data are included in submission. All data are flagged as appropriate.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 74023, Temperature, water
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 50069
 
Pollutant: Temperature, water
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 2
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Water Board Staff assessed public submissions data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 2 samples exceed the criterion for Water Temperature.
Data Reference: Salinas Rotation field data 2007
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Natural receiving water temperature of intrastate waters shall not be altered unless it can be demonstrated to the satisfaction of the Regional Board that such alteration in temperature does not adversely affect beneficial uses (Basin Plan).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Data for Various Pollutants in Westside San Joaquin Water Quality Coalition, 2004-2009.
 
Evaluation Guideline: The optimum range for growth and completion of most life stages of rainbow trout is 13-21 degrees Celsius (Moyle 1976).
Guideline Reference: Inland Fishes of California
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 1 monitoring site [ 306ELK-Elkhorn Slough at Kirby Park]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 1/16/2007-2/20/2007.
Environmental Conditions: Central Coast Water Board Staff are not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: All data was collected following the Standard Operating Procedures and Data Quality Objectives outlined in the SWAMP QAMP, (Puckett, 2002). All data are flagged as appropriate.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Management Plan for the State of California's Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program. Sacramento, CA. State Water Resources Control Board. SWAMP. December 2002 (1st version)
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 74023, Temperature, water
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 52974
 
Pollutant: Temperature, water
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 47
Number of Exceedances: 8
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Water Board Central Coast Water Board Staff assessed public submissions data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 8 of 47 samples exceed the criterion for Water Temperature.
Data Reference: Data from Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve Volunteer Monthly Water Quality Program, Jan. 2007-Jul. 2009
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Natural receiving water temperature of intrastate waters shall not be altered unless it can be demonstrated to the satisfaction of the Regional Board that such alteration in temperature does not adversely affect beneficial uses (Basin Plan).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the Central Coastal Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: The optimum range for growth and completion of most life stages of rainbow trout is 13-21 degrees Celsius (Moyle 1976).
Guideline Reference: Inland Fishes of California
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 11 monitoring sites [ 306ELKAPC - Elkhorn Slough at Azevedo Pond, Central , 306ELKAPN - Elkhorn Slough at Azevedo Pond, North , 306ELKAPS - Elkhorn Slough at Azevedo Pond, South , 306ELKCAT - Elkhorn Slough at Cattail Swale , 306ELKHLE - Elkhorn Slough at Hudson's Landing East , 306ELKHLW - Elkhorn Slough at Hudson's Landing West , 306ELKKPD - Elkhorn Slough at Kirby Park Dock , 306ELKRBR - Elkhorn Slough at Reserve Bridge , 306ELKROK - Elkhorn Slough at Rookery Pond , 306ELKRSM - Elkhorn Slough at Reserve, South Marsh (Whistle Stop Lagoon) , 306ELKSTB - Elkhorn Slough at Strawberry Rd ]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 1/8/2007-7/10/2007.
Environmental Conditions: Central Coast Water Board Staff are not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: Data was collected following the Quality Assurance Project Plan for Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve's Volunteer Monthly Water Quality Program. Replicate data were identified in data and were qualified by RB Central Coast Water Board S
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan, Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve Volunteer Monthly Water Quality Program. May 15, 2009, Ver.1.3
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 74023, Temperature, water
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 15228
 
Pollutant: Temperature, water
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
Aquatic Life Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 1782
Number of Exceedances: 416
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Regional Board Staff assessed National Estuarine Research Reserve Monitoring Program (R3_ESNERR) data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 416 of 1782 samples exceed the criterion for Water Temperature.
Data Reference: Final Data File used for assessment: ESNERR (Elkhorn Slough National Reserve) Field Data from 2006
  Final Data File used for assessment: ESNERR (Elkhorn Slough National Reserve) Water Quality Data from 2006
  Final Data File used for assessment: ESNERR (Elkhorn Slough National Reserve) Water Quality Data from 94-04
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Natural receiving water temperature of intrastate waters shall not be altered unless it can be demonstrated to the satisfaction of the Regional Board that such alteration in temperature does not adversely affect beneficial uses (General Objective in Water Quality Control Plan, Central Coast Basin, Chapter III, Section II.A.2 Objectives for all Inland Surface Waters, Enclosed Bays and Estuaries).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) - Central Coast Region (Region 3)
 
Evaluation Guideline: Inland Fishes of California (Moyle 1976) states that for rainbow trout the optimum range for growth and completion of most life stages is 13-21 degrees C (page 129).
Guideline Reference: Inland Fishes of California
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 12 monitoring sites [ 306ELKAPN - Azevedo Pond, North, 306ELKAPC - Azevedo Pond, Central, 306ELKAPS - Azevedo Pond, South, 306ELKRBR - Reserve Bridge, 306ELKRSM - Reserve, South Marsh, 306ELKSTB - Strawberry Rd, 306ELKRNM - Reserve, North Marsh, 306ELKKPD - Kirby Park, 306ELKHLE - Hudson's Landing East, 306ELKHLW - Hudson's Landing West, 306ELKROK - Rookery Pond, 306ELKCAT - Cattail Swale]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 1/20/1990-10/10/2006.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might effect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: QAPP was adopted for work conducted since 2005. Prior to 2005 no QAPP was in place and data entry was completed by volunteers. Multiple errors were identified in data and were flagged by RB staff (in communication with Elkhorn Slough Program staff) prior to assessment of data.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 74023, Temperature, water
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 12985
 
Pollutant: Temperature, water
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
Aquatic Life Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 24
Number of Exceedances: 1
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Regional Board Staff assessed CCAMP Salinas (Salinas) data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 1 of 24 samples exceed the criterion for Water Temperature.
Data Reference: Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Salinas Toxicity data
  Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Water Quality Data_file1
  Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Water Quality Data_file2
  Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Water Quality Data_file3
 
SWAMP Data: SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Natural receiving water temperature of intrastate waters shall not be altered unless it can be demonstrated to the satisfaction of the Regional Board that such alteration in temperature does not adversely affect beneficial uses (General Objective in Water Quality Control Plan, Central Coast Basin, Chapter III, Section II.A.2 Objectives for all Inland Surface Waters, Enclosed Bays and Estuaries).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) - Central Coast Region (Region 3)
 
Evaluation Guideline: Inland Fishes of California (Moyle 1976) states that for rainbow trout the optimum range for growth and completion of most life stages is 13-21 degrees C (page 129).
Guideline Reference: Inland Fishes of California
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 1 monitoring site [ 306ELK-Elkhorn Slough at Kirby Park]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 3/1/1999-12/18/2006. Salinas watershed is one of five annual rotation areas that are monitored for conventional pollutants by CCAMP staff monthly for one year. Toxicity monitoring is conducted twice during the rotation year (winter and summer) at a subset of sites.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might effect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: All data was collected following the Standard Operating Procedures and Data Quality Objectives outlined in the SWAMP QAMP, (Puckett, 2002). QA data are included in submission. All data are flagged as appropriate.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
 
DECISION ID
80359
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
Pollutant: Turbidity
Final Listing Decision: Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)(2016)
Revision Status Original
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: This pollutant is being considered for placement on the CWA 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.

The turbidity Evaluation Guideline (Sigler et al., 1984) is not relevant for this water body because based on the recent publication (Steelhead/Rainbow Trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) Resources South of the Golden Gate, California (Becker, G.S and I.J Reining, October 2008), steelhead populations have not been documented in the Elkhorn Slough.

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 CWA 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. The turbidity Evaluation Guideline (Sigler et al., 1984) is not relevant for this water body.
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 Turbidity Evaluation Guideline (Sigler et al., 1984) is not relevant for this water body .
 
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.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 80359, Turbidity
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 52959
 
Pollutant: Turbidity
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 47
Number of Exceedances: 12
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Water Board Central Coast Water Board Staff assessed public submissions data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 12 of 47 samples exceed the criterion for Turbidity(NTU).
Data Reference: Data from Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve Volunteer Monthly Water Quality Program, Jan. 2007-Jul. 2009
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Waters shall be free of changes in turbidity that cause nuisance or adversely affect beneficial uses. (Basin Plan)
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the Central Coastal Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: Turbidities of 25 NTU or greater can cause a reduction in juvenile salmonid growth due to interference with their ability to find food (Sigler et al. 1984).
Guideline Reference: Effects of chronic turbidity on density and growth of steelheads and coho salmon. Transactions of the American Fisheries Society 113:142-150
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 11 monitoring sites [ 306ELKAPC - Elkhorn Slough at Azevedo Pond, Central , 306ELKAPN - Elkhorn Slough at Azevedo Pond, North , 306ELKAPS - Elkhorn Slough at Azevedo Pond, South , 306ELKCAT - Elkhorn Slough at Cattail Swale , 306ELKHLE - Elkhorn Slough at Hudson's Landing East , 306ELKHLW - Elkhorn Slough at Hudson's Landing West , 306ELKKPD - Elkhorn Slough at Kirby Park Dock , 306ELKRBR - Elkhorn Slough at Reserve Bridge , 306ELKROK - Elkhorn Slough at Rookery Pond , 306ELKRSM - Elkhorn Slough at Reserve, South Marsh (Whistle Stop Lagoon) , 306ELKSTB - Elkhorn Slough at Strawberry Rd ]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 1/8/2007-7/10/2007.
Environmental Conditions: Central Coast Water Board Staff are not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: Data was collected following the Quality Assurance Project Plan for Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve's Volunteer Monthly Water Quality Program. Replicate data were identified in data and were qualified by RB Central Coast Water Board S
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan, Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve Volunteer Monthly Water Quality Program. May 15, 2009, Ver.1.3
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 80359, Turbidity
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 12986
 
Pollutant: Turbidity
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
Aquatic Life Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 12
Number of Exceedances: 1
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Regional Board Staff assessed CCAMP Salinas (Salinas) data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 1 of 12 samples exceed the criterion for Turbidity(NTU).
Data Reference: Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Salinas Toxicity data
  Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Water Quality Data_file1
  Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Water Quality Data_file2
  Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Water Quality Data_file3
 
SWAMP Data: SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Waters shall be free of changes in turbidity that cause nuisance or adversely affect beneficial uses. Water Quality Control Plan, Central Coast Basin, Chapter III, Section II.A.2 Objectives for all Inland Surface Waters, Enclosed Bays and Estuaries.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) - Central Coast Region (Region 3)
 
Evaluation Guideline: Sigler et al. (1984) states that turbidities of 25 NTU's or greater caused reduction in juvenile salmonid growth due to interference with their ability to find food.
Guideline Reference: Effects of chronic turbidity on density and growth of steelheads and coho salmon. Transactions of the American Fisheries Society 113:142-150
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 1 monitoring site [ 306ELK-Elkhorn Slough at Kirby Park]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 1/23/2006-12/18/2006. Salinas watershed is one of five annual rotation areas that are monitored for conventional pollutants by CCAMP staff monthly for one year. Toxicity monitoring is conducted twice during the rotation year (winter and summer) at a subset of sites.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might effect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: All data was collected following the Standard Operating Procedures and Data Quality Objectives outlined in the SWAMP QAMP, (Puckett, 2002). QA data are included in submission. All data are flagged as appropriate.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 80359, Turbidity
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 18744
 
Pollutant: Turbidity
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
Aquatic Life Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 3
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Regional Board Staff assessed Coastal Watershed Council (Snapshot day monitoring) (R3_Snap) data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 3 samples exceed the criterion for Turbidity(NTU).
Data Reference: Final Data File used for assessment: Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Volunteer Monitoring Network Data. 2003-2006
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Waters shall be free of changes in turbidity that cause nuisance or adversely affect beneficial uses. Water Quality Control Plan, Central Coast Basin, Chapter III, Section II.A.2 Objectives for all Inland Surface Waters, Enclosed Bays and Estuaries.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) - Central Coast Region (Region 3)
 
Evaluation Guideline: Sigler et al. (1984) states that turbidities of 25 NTU's or greater caused reduction in juvenile salmonid growth due to interference with their ability to find food.
Guideline Reference: Effects of chronic turbidity on density and growth of steelheads and coho salmon. Transactions of the American Fisheries Society 113:142-150
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 3 monitoring sites [ 306-ELKHO-34 - Elkhorn Slough, 306-ELKHO-32 - Elkhorn Slough Hudson's Landing, 306-ELKHO-33 - Elkhorn Slough South Marsh Bridge]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected on a single day 5/17/2003. Coastal Watershed Council Snapshot Day Monitoring is conducted annually.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might effect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: State Board approved QAPP. Multiple errors were identified in data and were flagged or fixed by RB staff (in communication with Project staff) prior to assessment of data.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 80359, Turbidity
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 15261
 
Pollutant: Turbidity
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
Aquatic Life Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 1726
Number of Exceedances: 432
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Regional Board Staff assessed National Estuarine Research Reserve Monitoring Program (R3_ESNERR) data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 432 of 1726 samples exceed the criterion for Turbidity(NTU).
Data Reference: Final Data File used for assessment: ESNERR (Elkhorn Slough National Reserve) Field Data from 2006
  Final Data File used for assessment: ESNERR (Elkhorn Slough National Reserve) Water Quality Data from 2006
  Final Data File used for assessment: ESNERR (Elkhorn Slough National Reserve) Water Quality Data from 94-04
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Waters shall be free of changes in turbidity that cause nuisance or adversely affect beneficial uses. Water Quality Control Plan, Central Coast Basin, Chapter III, Section II.A.2 Objectives for all Inland Surface Waters, Enclosed Bays and Estuaries.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) - Central Coast Region (Region 3)
 
Evaluation Guideline: Sigler et al. (1984) states that turbidities of 25 NTU's or greater caused reduction in juvenile salmonid growth due to interference with their ability to find food.
Guideline Reference: Effects of chronic turbidity on density and growth of steelheads and coho salmon. Transactions of the American Fisheries Society 113:142-150
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 12 monitoring sites [ 306ELKAPN - Azevedo Pond, North, 306ELKAPC - Azevedo Pond, Central, 306ELKAPS - Azevedo Pond, South, 306ELKRBR - Reserve Bridge, 306ELKRSM - Reserve, South Marsh, 306ELKSTB - Strawberry Rd, 306ELKRNM - Reserve, North Marsh, 306ELKKPD - Kirby Park, 306ELKHLE - Hudson's Landing East, 306ELKHLW - Hudson's Landing West, 306ELKROK - Rookery Pond, 306ELKCAT - Cattail Swale]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 1/20/1990-10/10/2006.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might effect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: QAPP was adopted for work conducted since 2005. Prior to 2005 no QAPP was in place and data entry was completed by volunteers. Multiple errors were identified in data and were flagged by RB staff (in communication with Elkhorn Slough Program staff) prior to assessment of data.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 80359, Turbidity
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 50068
 
Pollutant: Turbidity
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 2
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Water Board Staff assessed public submissions data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 2 samples exceed the criterion for Turbidity(NTU).
Data Reference: Salinas Rotation field data 2007
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Waters shall be free of changes in turbidity that cause nuisance or adversely affect beneficial uses. (Basin Plan)
Objective/Criterion Reference: Data for Various Pollutants in Westside San Joaquin Water Quality Coalition, 2004-2009.
 
Evaluation Guideline: Turbidities of 25 NTU or greater can cause a reduction in juvenile salmonid growth due to interference with their ability to find food (Sigler et al. 1984).
Guideline Reference: Effects of chronic turbidity on density and growth of steelheads and coho salmon. Transactions of the American Fisheries Society 113:142-150
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 1 monitoring site [ 306ELK-Elkhorn Slough at Kirby Park]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 1/16/2007-2/20/2007.
Environmental Conditions: Central Coast Water Board Staff are not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: All data was collected following the Standard Operating Procedures and Data Quality Objectives outlined in the SWAMP QAMP, (Puckett, 2002). All data are flagged as appropriate.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Management Plan for the State of California's Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program. Sacramento, CA. State Water Resources Control Board. SWAMP. December 2002 (1st version)
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 80359, Turbidity
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 12987
 
Pollutant: Turbidity
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
Aquatic Life Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 12
Number of Exceedances: 1
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Regional Board Staff assessed CCAMP Salinas (Salinas) data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 1 of 12 samples exceed the criterion for Turbidity(NTU).
Data Reference: Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Salinas Toxicity data
  Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Water Quality Data_file1
  Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Water Quality Data_file2
  Final Data File used for assessment: CCAMP Water Quality Data_file3
 
SWAMP Data: SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Waters shall be free of changes in turbidity that cause nuisance or adversely affect beneficial uses. Water Quality Control Plan, Central Coast Basin, Chapter III, Section II.A.2 Objectives for all Inland Surface Waters, Enclosed Bays and Estuaries.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) - Central Coast Region (Region 3)
 
Evaluation Guideline: Sigler et al. (1984) states that turbidities of 25 NTU's or greater caused reduction in juvenile salmonid growth due to interference with their ability to find food.
Guideline Reference: Effects of chronic turbidity on density and growth of steelheads and coho salmon. Transactions of the American Fisheries Society 113:142-150
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 1 monitoring site [ 306ELK-Elkhorn Slough at Kirby Park]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 1/23/2006-12/18/2006. Salinas watershed is one of five annual rotation areas that are monitored for conventional pollutants by CCAMP staff monthly for one year. Toxicity monitoring is conducted twice during the rotation year (winter and summer) at a subset of sites.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might effect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: All data was collected following the Standard Operating Procedures and Data Quality Objectives outlined in the SWAMP QAMP, (Puckett, 2002). QA data are included in submission. All data are flagged as appropriate.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 80359, Turbidity
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 15274
 
Pollutant: Turbidity
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
Aquatic Life Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 1726
Number of Exceedances: 432
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Regional Board Staff assessed National Estuarine Research Reserve Monitoring Program (R3_ESNERR) data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 432 of 1726 samples exceed the criterion for Turbidity(NTU).
Data Reference: Final Data File used for assessment: ESNERR (Elkhorn Slough National Reserve) Field Data from 2006
  Final Data File used for assessment: ESNERR (Elkhorn Slough National Reserve) Water Quality Data from 2006
  Final Data File used for assessment: ESNERR (Elkhorn Slough National Reserve) Water Quality Data from 94-04
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Waters shall be free of changes in turbidity that cause nuisance or adversely affect beneficial uses. Water Quality Control Plan, Central Coast Basin, Chapter III, Section II.A.2 Objectives for all Inland Surface Waters, Enclosed Bays and Estuaries.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) - Central Coast Region (Region 3)
 
Evaluation Guideline: Sigler et al. (1984) states that turbidities of 25 NTU's or greater caused reduction in juvenile salmonid growth due to interference with their ability to find food.
Guideline Reference: Effects of chronic turbidity on density and growth of steelheads and coho salmon. Transactions of the American Fisheries Society 113:142-150
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 12 monitoring sites [ 306ELKAPN - Azevedo Pond, North, 306ELKAPC - Azevedo Pond, Central, 306ELKAPS - Azevedo Pond, South, 306ELKRBR - Reserve Bridge, 306ELKRSM - Reserve, South Marsh, 306ELKSTB - Strawberry Rd, 306ELKRNM - Reserve, North Marsh, 306ELKKPD - Kirby Park, 306ELKHLE - Hudson's Landing East, 306ELKHLW - Hudson's Landing West, 306ELKROK - Rookery Pond, 306ELKCAT - Cattail Swale]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 1/20/1990-10/10/2006.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might effect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: QAPP was adopted for work conducted since 2005. Prior to 2005 no QAPP was in place and data entry was completed by volunteers. Multiple errors were identified in data and were flagged by RB staff (in communication with Elkhorn Slough Program staff) prior to assessment of data.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 80359, Turbidity
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 18745
 
Pollutant: Turbidity
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
Aquatic Life Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 3
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Regional Board Staff assessed Coastal Watershed Council (Snapshot day monitoring) (R3_Snap) data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 3 samples exceed the criterion for Turbidity(NTU).
Data Reference: Final Data File used for assessment: Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Volunteer Monitoring Network Data. 2003-2006
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Waters shall be free of changes in turbidity that cause nuisance or adversely affect beneficial uses. Water Quality Control Plan, Central Coast Basin, Chapter III, Section II.A.2 Objectives for all Inland Surface Waters, Enclosed Bays and Estuaries.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) - Central Coast Region (Region 3)
 
Evaluation Guideline: Sigler et al. (1984) states that turbidities of 25 NTU's or greater caused reduction in juvenile salmonid growth due to interference with their ability to find food.
Guideline Reference: Effects of chronic turbidity on density and growth of steelheads and coho salmon. Transactions of the American Fisheries Society 113:142-150
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 3 monitoring sites [ 306-ELKHO-34 - Elkhorn Slough, 306-ELKHO-32 - Elkhorn Slough Hudson's Landing, 306-ELKHO-33 - Elkhorn Slough South Marsh Bridge]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected on a single day 5/17/2003. Coastal Watershed Council Snapshot Day Monitoring is conducted annually.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might effect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: State Board approved QAPP. Multiple errors were identified in data and were flagged or fixed by RB staff (in communication with Project staff) prior to assessment of data.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 80359, Turbidity
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 52966
 
Pollutant: Turbidity
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 47
Number of Exceedances: 8
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Water Board Central Coast Water Board Staff assessed public submissions data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 8 of 47 samples exceed the criterion for Turbidity(NTU).
Data Reference: Data from Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve Volunteer Monthly Water Quality Program, Jan. 2007-Jul. 2009
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Waters shall be free of changes in turbidity that cause nuisance or adversely affect beneficial uses (Basin Plan).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the Central Coastal Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: Turbidities of 40 NTU or greater can cause a reduction in piscivorous fish (largemouth bass) growth due to interference with their ability to find food (Shoup, D.E. and Wahl D.H., 2009).
Guideline Reference: The Effects of Turbidity on Prey Selection by Piscivorous Largemouth Bass
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 11 monitoring sites [ 306ELKAPC - Elkhorn Slough at Azevedo Pond, Central , 306ELKAPN - Elkhorn Slough at Azevedo Pond, North , 306ELKAPS - Elkhorn Slough at Azevedo Pond, South , 306ELKCAT - Elkhorn Slough at Cattail Swale , 306ELKHLE - Elkhorn Slough at Hudson's Landing East , 306ELKHLW - Elkhorn Slough at Hudson's Landing West , 306ELKKPD - Elkhorn Slough at Kirby Park Dock , 306ELKRBR - Elkhorn Slough at Reserve Bridge , 306ELKROK - Elkhorn Slough at Rookery Pond , 306ELKRSM - Elkhorn Slough at Reserve, South Marsh (Whistle Stop Lagoon) , 306ELKSTB - Elkhorn Slough at Strawberry Rd ]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 1/8/2007-7/10/2007.
Environmental Conditions: Central Coast Water Board Staff are not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: Data was collected following the Quality Assurance Project Plan for Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve's Volunteer Monthly Water Quality Program. Replicate data were identified in data and were qualified by RB Central Coast Water Board S
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan, Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve Volunteer Monthly Water Quality Program. May 15, 2009, Ver.1.3
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 80359, Turbidity
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 50113
 
Pollutant: Turbidity
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 2
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Water Board Staff assessed public submissions data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 2 samples exceed the criterion for Turbidity(NTU).
Data Reference: Salinas Rotation field data 2007
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Waters shall be free of changes in turbidity that cause nuisance or adversely affect beneficial uses (Basin Plan).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Data for Various Pollutants in Westside San Joaquin Water Quality Coalition, 2004-2009.
 
Evaluation Guideline: Turbidities of 40 NTU or greater can cause a reduction in piscivorous fish (largemouth bass) growth due to interference with their ability to find food (Shoup, D.E. and Wahl D.H., 2009).
Guideline Reference: The Effects of Turbidity on Prey Selection by Piscivorous Largemouth Bass
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 1 monitoring site [ 306ELK-Elkhorn Slough at Kirby Park]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 1/16/2007-2/20/2007.
Environmental Conditions: Central Coast Water Board Staff are not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: All data was collected following the Standard Operating Procedures and Data Quality Objectives outlined in the SWAMP QAMP, (Puckett, 2002). All data are flagged as appropriate.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Management Plan for the State of California's Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program. Sacramento, CA. State Water Resources Control Board. SWAMP. December 2002 (1st version)
 
 
DECISION ID
86756
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
Pollutant: Nitrate
Final Listing Decision: List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)(2016)
Revision Status Original
Sources: A Source Unknown
Expected TMDL Completion Date: 2018
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: This pollutant is being considered for placement on the CWA 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.

Eight lines of evidence are available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. Twenty of the 106 nitrate samples and 17 of the 198 nitrate/nitrite samples exceed the evaluation guideline (Central Coast Region Technical Report, 2010) for Cold and Warm Freshwater Habitat. In addition, the following evidence supports the conclusion that nitrate contributes to or causes a bio-stimulatory effect in this water segment.

1) This water segment is also on the 303(d) List due to low dissolved oxygen concentrations. Dissolved oxygen concentrations in this water segment frequently exceed (fall below) the water quality objectives for Cold Freshwater habitat, Estuarine Habitat and Marine Habitat.
2) Chlorophyll a concentrations from the Kirby Park monitoring station ranged from zero to 40 ug/L, occasionally exceeding the screening threshold of 15 ug/L (R3 NNE Technical Report, 2010).
3) Visual observations and photos of floating algal mats from various location throughout Elkhorn Slough show thick mats covering large areas, evidence of nuisance conditions.

Although the California Benthic Biomass Predictor Tool, v. 13 (Tetratech, 2007) predicted a benthic algal contribution to oxygen deficit to be problematic, this information is not included in this assessment as supporting evidence because the predictor tool has not been designed with brackish or estuarine systems in mind.

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 CWA 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. Twenty of the 106 nitrate samples and 17 of the 198 nitrate/nitrite samples exceed the evaluation guideline and this exceeds the allowable frequency listed in Table 3.1 of the Listing Policy. Furthermore, there is evidence in support of the conclusion that nitrate contributes to or causes a bio-stimulatory effect in this water segment.
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 be placed on the section 303(d) list because applicable water quality standards are exceeded and a pollutant contributes to or causes the problem.
 
State Board Review of Regional Board Conclusion and Recommendation:
 
State Board Decision Recommendation: After review of this Regional Board decision, SWRCB staff recommend the decision be approved by the State Board.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 86756, Nitrate
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 50053
 
Pollutant: Nitrate
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 1
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Water Board Staff assessed public submissions data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 1 of 2 samples exceed the criterion for Nitrate as N.
Data Reference: Salinas Rotation field data 2007
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Waters shall not contain biostimulatory substances in concentrations that promote aquatic growths to the extent that such growths cause nuisance or adversely affect beneficial uses (Basin Plan).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Data for Various Pollutants in Westside San Joaquin Water Quality Coalition, 2004-2009.
 
Evaluation Guideline: Technical approach to develop nutrient numeric endpoints for California, Tetra Tech, June 2006. The Central Coast Region numeric target for maximum nitrate concentration is based on the Tetra Tech NNE (Nutrient Numeric Endpoint) Model and CCAMP data for 193 sites, monitored monthly for at least 1 year between January 1998 and December 2006. The model numeric target for aquatic life habitats in the Central Coast Region is 1.0 mg/L Nitrate as N.
Guideline Reference: Technical Approach to Develop Nutrient Numeric Endpoints for California. U.S. EPA Region IX. State Water Resources Control Board. 68-C-02-108-To-111
Guideline Reference: Central Coast RegionTechnical Paper: Interpreting Narrative Objectives for Biostimulatory Substances for California Central Coast Waters. This method uses the Technical Approach for Developing California Nutrient Numeric Endpoints.
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 1 monitoring site [ 306ELK-Elkhorn Slough at Kirby Park]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 1/16/2007-2/20/2007.
Environmental Conditions: One sample result was reported as non-detect and the detection limit was above the guideline. Because these results are considered estimated, this sample, collected on 1/6/07, was not used in analysis.
QAPP Information: All data was collected following the Standard Operating Procedures and Data Quality Objectives outlined in the SWAMP QAMP, (Puckett, 2002). All data are flagged as appropriate.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Management Plan for the State of California's Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program. Sacramento, CA. State Water Resources Control Board. SWAMP. December 2002 (1st version)
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 86756, Nitrate
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 52830
 
Pollutant: Nitrate
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 105
Number of Exceedances: 20
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Water Board Central Coast Water Board Staff assessed public submissions data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 20 of 105 samples exceed the criterion for Nitrate as N.
Data Reference: Data from Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve Volunteer Monthly Water Quality Program, Jan. 2007-Jul. 2009
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Waters shall not contain biostimulatory substances in concentrations that promote aquatic growths to the extent that such growths cause nuisance or adversely affect beneficial uses (Basin Plan).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the Central Coastal Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: Technical approach to develop nutrient numeric endpoints for California, Tetra Tech, June 2006. The Central Coast Region numeric target for maximum nitrate concentration is based on the Tetra Tech NNE (Nutrient Numeric Endpoint) Model and CCAMP data for 193 sites, monitored monthly for at least 1 year between January 1998 and December 2006. The model numeric target for aquatic life habitats in the Central Coast Region is 1.0 mg/L Nitrate as N.
Guideline Reference: Staff Report Division of Water Quality Nutrient Screening Tools for Use in the Clean Water Act Section 303(d) Listing Process
Guideline Reference: Technical Approach to Develop Nutrient Numeric Endpoints for California. U.S. EPA Region IX. State Water Resources Control Board. 68-C-02-108-To-111
Guideline Reference: Central Coast RegionTechnical Paper: Interpreting Narrative Objectives for Biostimulatory Substances for California Central Coast Waters. This method uses the Technical Approach for Developing California Nutrient Numeric Endpoints.
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 9 monitoring sites [ 306ELKHLE - Elkhorn Slough at Hudson's Landing East , 306ELKHLW - Elkhorn Slough at Hudson's Landing West , 306ELKSTB - Elkhorn Slough at Strawberry Rd , 306ELKKPD - Elkhorn Slough at Kirby Park Dock , 306ELKRBR - Elkhorn Slough at Reserve Bridge , 306ELKRSM - Elkhorn Slough at Reserve, South Marsh (Whistle Stop Lagoon) , 306ELKAPS - Elkhorn Slough at Azevedo Pond, South , 306ELKAPC - Elkhorn Slough at Azevedo Pond, Central , 306ELKAPN - Elkhorn Slough at Azevedo Pond, North ]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 1/8/2007-7/7/2009.
Environmental Conditions: Central Coast Water Board Staff are not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: Data was collected following the Quality Assurance Project Plan for Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve's Volunteer Monthly Water Quality Program. Replicate data were identified in data and were qualified by RB Central Coast Water Board S
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan, Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve Volunteer Monthly Water Quality Program. May 15, 2009, Ver.1.3
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 86756, Nitrate
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 50099
 
Pollutant: Nitrate
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 1
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Water Board Staff assessed public submissions data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 1 of 2 samples exceed the criterion for Nitrate as N.
Data Reference: Salinas Rotation field data 2007
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Waters shall not contain biostimulatory substances in concentrations that promote aquatic growths to the extent that such growths cause nuisance or adversely affect beneficial uses (Basin Plan).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Data for Various Pollutants in Westside San Joaquin Water Quality Coalition, 2004-2009.
 
Evaluation Guideline: Technical approach to develop nutrient numeric endpoints for California, Tetra Tech, June 2006. The Central Coast Region numeric target for maximum nitrate concentration is based on the Tetra Tech NNE (Nutrient Numeric Endpoint) Model and CCAMP data for 193 sites, monitored monthly for at least 1 year between January 1998 and December 2006. The model numeric target for aquatic life habitats in the Central Coast Region is 1.0 mg/L Nitrate as N.
Guideline Reference: Technical Approach to Develop Nutrient Numeric Endpoints for California. U.S. EPA Region IX. State Water Resources Control Board. 68-C-02-108-To-111
Guideline Reference: Central Coast RegionTechnical Paper: Interpreting Narrative Objectives for Biostimulatory Substances for California Central Coast Waters. This method uses the Technical Approach for Developing California Nutrient Numeric Endpoints.
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 1 monitoring site [ 306ELK-Elkhorn Slough at Kirby Park]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 1/16/2007-2/20/2007.
Environmental Conditions: One sample result was reported as non-detect and the detection limit was above the guideline. Because these results are considered estimated, this sample, collected on 1/6/07, was not used in analysis.
QAPP Information: All data was collected following the Standard Operating Procedures and Data Quality Objectives outlined in the SWAMP QAMP, (Puckett, 2002). All data are flagged as appropriate.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Management Plan for the State of California's Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program. Sacramento, CA. State Water Resources Control Board. SWAMP. December 2002 (1st version)
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 86756, Nitrate
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 52840
 
Pollutant: Nitrate
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 105
Number of Exceedances: 20
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Water Board Central Coast Water Board Staff assessed public submissions data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 20 of 105 samples exceed the criterion for Nitrate as N.
Data Reference: Data from Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve Volunteer Monthly Water Quality Program, Jan. 2007-Jul. 2009
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Waters shall not contain biostimulatory substances in concentrations that promote aquatic growths to the extent that such growths cause nuisance or adversely affect beneficial uses (Basin Plan).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the Central Coastal Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: Technical approach to develop nutrient numeric endpoints for California, Tetra Tech, June 2006. The Central Coast Region numeric target for maximum nitrate concentration is based on the Tetra Tech NNE (Nutrient Numeric Endpoint) Model and CCAMP data for 193 sites, monitored monthly for at least 1 year between January 1998 and December 2006. The model numeric target for aquatic life habitats in the Central Coast Region is 1.0 mg/L Nitrate as N.
Guideline Reference: Staff Report Division of Water Quality Nutrient Screening Tools for Use in the Clean Water Act Section 303(d) Listing Process
Guideline Reference: Technical Approach to Develop Nutrient Numeric Endpoints for California. U.S. EPA Region IX. State Water Resources Control Board. 68-C-02-108-To-111
Guideline Reference: Central Coast RegionTechnical Paper: Interpreting Narrative Objectives for Biostimulatory Substances for California Central Coast Waters. This method uses the Technical Approach for Developing California Nutrient Numeric Endpoints.
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 9 monitoring sites [ 306ELKHLE - Elkhorn Slough at Hudson's Landing East , 306ELKHLW - Elkhorn Slough at Hudson's Landing West , 306ELKSTB - Elkhorn Slough at Strawberry Rd , 306ELKKPD - Elkhorn Slough at Kirby Park Dock , 306ELKRBR - Elkhorn Slough at Reserve Bridge , 306ELKRSM - Elkhorn Slough at Reserve, South Marsh (Whistle Stop Lagoon) , 306ELKAPS - Elkhorn Slough at Azevedo Pond, South , 306ELKAPC - Elkhorn Slough at Azevedo Pond, Central , 306ELKAPN - Elkhorn Slough at Azevedo Pond, North ]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 1/8/2007-7/7/2009.
Environmental Conditions: Central Coast Water Board Staff are not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: Data was collected following the Quality Assurance Project Plan for Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve's Volunteer Monthly Water Quality Program. Replicate data were identified in data and were qualified by RB Central Coast Water Board S
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan, Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve Volunteer Monthly Water Quality Program. May 15, 2009, Ver.1.3
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 86756, Nitrate
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 50054
 
Pollutant: Nitrate/Nitrite (Nitrite + Nitrate as N)
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 1
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Water Board Staff assessed public submissions data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 1 of 2 samples exceed the criterion for Nitrate/Nitrite as N.
Data Reference: Salinas Rotation field data 2007
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Waters shall not contain biostimulatory substances in concentrations that promote aquatic growths to the extent that such growths cause nuisance or adversely affect beneficial uses (Basin Plan).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Data for Various Pollutants in Westside San Joaquin Water Quality Coalition, 2004-2009.
 
Evaluation Guideline: Technical approach to develop nutrient numeric endpoints for California, Tetra Tech, June 2006. The Central Coast Region numeric target for maximum nitrate concentration is based on the Tetra Tech NNE (Nutrient Numeric Endpoint) Model and CCAMP data for 193 sites, monitored monthly for at least 1 year between January 1998 and December 2006. The model numeric target for aquatic life habitats in the Central Coast Region is 1.0 mg/L Nitrate as N.
Guideline Reference: Technical Approach to Develop Nutrient Numeric Endpoints for California. U.S. EPA Region IX. State Water Resources Control Board. 68-C-02-108-To-111
Guideline Reference: Central Coast RegionTechnical Paper: Interpreting Narrative Objectives for Biostimulatory Substances for California Central Coast Waters. This method uses the Technical Approach for Developing California Nutrient Numeric Endpoints.
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 1 monitoring site [ 306ELK-Elkhorn Slough at Kirby Park]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 1/16/2007-2/20/2007.
Environmental Conditions: One sample result was reported as non-detect and the detection limit was above the guideline. Because these results are considered estimated, this sample, collected on 1/6/07, was not used in analysis.
QAPP Information: All data was collected following the Standard Operating Procedures and Data Quality Objectives outlined in the SWAMP QAMP, (Puckett, 2002). All data are flagged as appropriate.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Management Plan for the State of California's Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program. Sacramento, CA. State Water Resources Control Board. SWAMP. December 2002 (1st version)
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 86756, Nitrate
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 52866
 
Pollutant: Nitrate/Nitrite (Nitrite + Nitrate as N)
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 197
Number of Exceedances: 17
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Water Board Central Coast Water Board Staff assessed public submissions data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 17 of 197 samples exceed the criterion for Nitrate/Nitrite as N.
Data Reference: Data from Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve Volunteer Monthly Water Quality Program, Jan. 2007-Jul. 2009
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Waters shall not contain biostimulatory substances in concentrations that promote aquatic growths to the extent that such growths cause nuisance or adversely affect beneficial uses (Basin Plan).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the Central Coastal Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: Technical approach to develop nutrient numeric endpoints for California, Tetra Tech, June 2006. The Central Coast Region numeric target for maximum nitrate concentration is based on the Tetra Tech NNE (Nutrient Numeric Endpoint) Model and CCAMP data for 193 sites, monitored monthly for at least 1 year between January 1998 and December 2006. The model numeric target for aquatic life habitats in the Central Coast Region is 1.0 mg/L Nitrate as N.
Guideline Reference: Staff Report Division of Water Quality Nutrient Screening Tools for Use in the Clean Water Act Section 303(d) Listing Process
Guideline Reference: Technical Approach to Develop Nutrient Numeric Endpoints for California. U.S. EPA Region IX. State Water Resources Control Board. 68-C-02-108-To-111
Guideline Reference: Central Coast RegionTechnical Paper: Interpreting Narrative Objectives for Biostimulatory Substances for California Central Coast Waters. This method uses the Technical Approach for Developing California Nutrient Numeric Endpoints.
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 11 monitoring sites [ 306ELKAPC - Elkhorn Slough at Azevedo Pond, Central , 306ELKAPN - Elkhorn Slough at Azevedo Pond, North , 306ELKAPS - Elkhorn Slough at Azevedo Pond, South , 306ELKCAT - Elkhorn Slough at Cattail Swale , 306ELKHLE - Elkhorn Slough at Hudson's Landing East , 306ELKHLW - Elkhorn Slough at Hudson's Landing West , 306ELKKPD - Elkhorn Slough at Kirby Park Dock , 306ELKRBR - Elkhorn Slough at Reserve Bridge , 306ELKROK - Elkhorn Slough at Rookery Pond , 306ELKRSM - Elkhorn Slough at Reserve, South Marsh (Whistle Stop Lagoon) , 306ELKSTB - Elkhorn Slough at Strawberry Rd ]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 1/8/2007-7/7/2009.
Environmental Conditions: Central Coast Water Board Staff are not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: Data was collected following the Quality Assurance Project Plan for Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve's Volunteer Monthly Water Quality Program. Replicate data were identified in data and were qualified by RB Central Coast Water Board S
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan, Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve Volunteer Monthly Water Quality Program. May 15, 2009, Ver.1.3
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 86756, Nitrate
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 50100
 
Pollutant: Nitrate/Nitrite (Nitrite + Nitrate as N)
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 1
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Water Board Staff assessed public submissions data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 1 of 2 samples exceed the criterion for Nitrate/Nitrite as N.
Data Reference: Salinas Rotation field data 2007
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Waters shall not contain biostimulatory substances in concentrations that promote aquatic growths to the extent that such growths cause nuisance or adversely affect beneficial uses (Basin Plan).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Data for Various Pollutants in Westside San Joaquin Water Quality Coalition, 2004-2009.
 
Evaluation Guideline: Technical approach to develop nutrient numeric endpoints for California, Tetra Tech, June 2006. The Central Coast Region numeric target for maximum nitrate concentration is based on the Tetra Tech NNE (Nutrient Numeric Endpoint) Model and CCAMP data for 193 sites, monitored monthly for at least 1 year between January 1998 and December 2006. The model numeric target for aquatic life habitats in the Central Coast Region is 1.0 mg/L Nitrate as N.
Guideline Reference: Technical Approach to Develop Nutrient Numeric Endpoints for California. U.S. EPA Region IX. State Water Resources Control Board. 68-C-02-108-To-111
Guideline Reference: Central Coast RegionTechnical Paper: Interpreting Narrative Objectives for Biostimulatory Substances for California Central Coast Waters. This method uses the Technical Approach for Developing California Nutrient Numeric Endpoints.
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 1 monitoring site [ 306ELK-Elkhorn Slough at Kirby Park]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 1/16/2007-2/20/2007.
Environmental Conditions: One sample result was reported as non-detect and the detection limit was above the guideline. Because these results are considered estimated, this sample, collected on 1/6/07, was not used in analysis.
QAPP Information: All data was collected following the Standard Operating Procedures and Data Quality Objectives outlined in the SWAMP QAMP, (Puckett, 2002). All data are flagged as appropriate.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Management Plan for the State of California's Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program. Sacramento, CA. State Water Resources Control Board. SWAMP. December 2002 (1st version)
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 86756, Nitrate
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 52905
 
Pollutant: Nitrate/Nitrite (Nitrite + Nitrate as N)
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 197
Number of Exceedances: 17
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Central Coast Water Board Central Coast Water Board Staff assessed public submissions data for Elkhorn Slough to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 17 of 197 samples exceed the criterion for Nitrate/Nitrite as N.
Data Reference: Data from Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve Volunteer Monthly Water Quality Program, Jan. 2007-Jul. 2009
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Waters shall not contain biostimulatory substances in concentrations that promote aquatic growths to the extent that such growths cause nuisance or adversely affect beneficial uses (Basin Plan).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the Central Coastal Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: Technical approach to develop nutrient numeric endpoints for California, Tetra Tech, June 2006. The Central Coast Region numeric target for maximum nitrate concentration is based on the Tetra Tech NNE (Nutrient Numeric Endpoint) Model and CCAMP data for 193 sites, monitored monthly for at least 1 year between January 1998 and December 2006. The model numeric target for aquatic life habitats in the Central Coast Region is 1.0 mg/L Nitrate as N.
Guideline Reference: Staff Report Division of Water Quality Nutrient Screening Tools for Use in the Clean Water Act Section 303(d) Listing Process
Guideline Reference: Technical Approach to Develop Nutrient Numeric Endpoints for California. U.S. EPA Region IX. State Water Resources Control Board. 68-C-02-108-To-111
Guideline Reference: Central Coast RegionTechnical Paper: Interpreting Narrative Objectives for Biostimulatory Substances for California Central Coast Waters. This method uses the Technical Approach for Developing California Nutrient Numeric Endpoints.
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Elkhorn Slough was collected at 11 monitoring sites [ 306ELKAPC - Elkhorn Slough at Azevedo Pond, Central , 306ELKAPN - Elkhorn Slough at Azevedo Pond, North , 306ELKAPS - Elkhorn Slough at Azevedo Pond, South , 306ELKCAT - Elkhorn Slough at Cattail Swale , 306ELKHLE - Elkhorn Slough at Hudson's Landing East , 306ELKHLW - Elkhorn Slough at Hudson's Landing West , 306ELKKPD - Elkhorn Slough at Kirby Park Dock , 306ELKRBR - Elkhorn Slough at Reserve Bridge , 306ELKROK - Elkhorn Slough at Rookery Pond , 306ELKRSM - Elkhorn Slough at Reserve, South Marsh (Whistle Stop Lagoon) , 306ELKSTB - Elkhorn Slough at Strawberry Rd ]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 1/8/2007-7/7/2009.
Environmental Conditions: Central Coast Water Board Staff are not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: Data was collected following the Quality Assurance Project Plan for Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve's Volunteer Monthly Water Quality Program. Replicate data were identified in data and were qualified by RB Central Coast Water Board S
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan, Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve Volunteer Monthly Water Quality Program. May 15, 2009, Ver.1.3
 
 
DECISION ID
69405
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
Pollutant: Pesticides
Final Listing Decision: List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)(2016)
Revision Status Original
Sources: A Source Unknown
Expected TMDL Completion Date: 2027
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: No new data were assessed. This decision has not changed from the 2010 listing cycle.

303(d) listing decisions made prior to 2006 were not held in an assessment database. The Regional Boards will update this decision when new data and information become available and are assessed.
 
Regional Board Decision Recommendation: This is a decision previously approved by the State Water Resources Control Board and the USEPA. No new data were assessed by the Regional Board for the current cycle. The decision has not changed.
 
State Board Review of Regional Board Conclusion and Recommendation:
 
State Board Decision Recommendation: After review of this Regional Board decision, SWRCB staff recommend the decision be approved by the State Board.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 69405, Pesticides
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 3943
 
Pollutant: Pesticides
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Not Recorded
 
Beneficial Use: Estuarine Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 0
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: Not Specified
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Unspecified--This LOE is a placeholder to support a 303(d) listing decision made prior to 2006.
Data Reference: Placeholder reference pre-2006 303(d)
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Unspecified
Objective/Criterion Reference: Placeholder reference pre-2006 303(d)
 
Evaluation Guideline: Unspecified
Guideline Reference: Placeholder reference pre-2006 303(d)
 
Spatial Representation: Unspecified
Temporal Representation: Unspecified
Environmental Conditions: Unspecified
QAPP Information: Unspecified
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
 
DECISION ID
69062
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
Pollutant: Sedimentation/Siltation
Final Listing Decision: List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)(2016)
Revision Status Original
Sources: A Source Unknown
Expected TMDL Completion Date: 2027
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: No new data were assessed. 303(d) listing decisions made prior to 2006 were not held in an assessment database. The Regional Boards will update this decision when new data and information become available and are assessed.
 
Regional Board Decision Recommendation: This is a decision previously approved by the State Water Resources Control Board and the USEPA. No new data were assessed by the Regional Board for the current cycle. The decision has not changed.
 
State Board Review of Regional Board Conclusion and Recommendation:
 
State Board Decision Recommendation: After review of this Regional Board decision, SWRCB staff recommend the decision be approved by the State Board.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 69062, Sedimentation/Siltation
Region 3     
Elkhorn Slough
 
LOE ID: 3944
 
Pollutant: Sedimentation/Siltation
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Not Recorded
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 0
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: Not Specified
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Unspecified--This LOE is a placeholder to support a 303(d) listing decision made prior to 2006.
Data Reference: Placeholder reference pre-2006 303(d)
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Unspecified
Objective/Criterion Reference: Placeholder reference pre-2006 303(d)
 
Evaluation Guideline: Unspecified
Guideline Reference: Placeholder reference pre-2006 303(d)
 
Spatial Representation: Unspecified
Temporal Representation: Unspecified
Environmental Conditions: Unspecified
QAPP Information: Unspecified
QAPP Information Reference(s):