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

Supporting Information

Regional Board 3 - Central Coast Region

Water Body Name:	Chualar Creek, South Branch
Water Body ID:	CAR3091101020080604161515
Water Body Type:	River & Stream


DECISION ID	84298	Region 3
Chualar Creek, South Branch

Pollutant:	Nitrate
Final Listing Decision:	Do Not Delist from 303(d) list (being addressed with USEPA approved TMDL)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision:	Do Not Delist from 303(d) list (being addressed with USEPA approved TMDL)(2016)
Revision Status	Original
Sources:	Agriculture \| Domestic Animals/Livestock \| Natural Sources
TMDL Name:	Salinas River Nutrients
TMDL Project Code:	87
Date TMDL Approved by USEPA:	10/13/2015
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution:	Pollutant

Regional Board Conclusion:	This pollutant is being considered for removal on the CWA section 303(d) List under sections 2.2 and 4.1 of the Listing Policy. Under section 4.1 of the Policy, a minimum of one line of evidence is needed to assess listing status. Nine lines of evidence are available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. Seven of the 7 nitrate samples and 21 of the 21 nitrate/nitrite samples exceed the water quality objective for Municipal and Domestic Supply. Seven of the seven nitrate samples and 21 of the 21 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) Using site-specific data from this waterbody, the California Benthic Biomass Predictor Tool, v. 13 (Tetratech, 2007) predicted a benthic algal contribution to oxygen deficit for this water body ranging from 6.48 mg/L to 6.99 mg/L. This exceeds the screening threshold for benthic algal contribution to oxygen deficit of 1.25 mg/L (R3 NNE Technical Report, 2010). 2) Using site-specific data from this waterbody and the Revised Qual2K model, the California Benthic Biomass Predictor Tool, v. 13, QUAL2K model (Tetratech, 2007) predicted algae biomass ranging at sites from 129 g/m2 ash-free dry weight (AFDW) to 151 g/m2 AFDW. This exceeds the Cold Freshwater Habitat screening threshold for algae biomass of 60 grams/m2 and the warm water screening threshold of 80 grams/m2, respectively (Creager, et al., 2006). 3) Using site-specific data from this waterbody and the Revised Qual2K model, the California Benthic Biomass Predictor Tool, v. 13 (Tetratech, 2007) predicted benthic chlorophyll a concentrations ranging at sites from 324 mg/m2 to 378 mg/m2. This exceeds the Cold Freshwater Habitat screening threshold of 150 mg/m2 and the Warm Freshwater Habitat screening threshold of 200 mg/m2 (Creager, et al., 2006). 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. In accordance with section 2.2 of the Policy, there is sufficient justification to place it in the Being Addressed portion of the CWA 303(d) List because a TMDL has been completed and approved by RWQCB and USEPA, and is expected to result in attainment of the standard. This conclusion is based on the staff findings that: 1. The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy. 2. The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy. 3. Seven of the 7 nitrate samples and 21 of the 21 nitrate/nitrite samples exceed the water quality objective for Municipal and Domestic Supply. Seven of the seven nitrate samples and 21 of the 21 nitrate/nitrite samples exceed the evaluation guideline (Central Coast Region Technical Report, 2010) for Cold and Warm Freshwater Habitat. These exceed the allowable frequency listed in Table 4.1 of the Listing Policy and there is evidence in support of the conclusion that nitrate contributes to or causes a bio stimulatory effect in this water segment. 4. The Lower Salinas River Watershed Nutrient TMDL has been approved by USEPA on 10/13/2015. 5. 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 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 84298, Nitrate	Region 3
Chualar Creek, South Branch

LOE ID:

48464

Pollutant:

Nitrate

LOE Subgroup:

Pollutant-Water

Matrix:

Water

Fraction:

None

Beneficial Use:

Municipal & Domestic Supply

Number of Samples:

Number of Exceedances:

Data and Information Type:

PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING

Data Used to Assess Water Quality:

Central Coast Water Board Staff assessed public submissions data for Esperanza Creek to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 4 of 4 samples exceed the criterion for Nitrate as N.

Data Reference:

Data from Region 3 Conditional Waiver Cooperative Monitoring Program, Jan. 2007-Jun. 2010

SWAMP Data:

Non-SWAMP

Water Quality Objective/Criterion:

The California Maximum Contaminant Level for nitrate (NO3 as N) incorporated by reference in the Basin Plan is 10.0 mg/L (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 Esperanza Creek was collected at 2 monitoring sites [ 309SOS - Chualar Creek South Branch at Old Stage, 309SBC - Chualar Creek South branch at Highway 101]

Temporal Representation:

Data was collected over the time period 10/29/2008-11/19/2008.

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 Cooperative Monitoring Program QAPP, (Clark and Ogle 2006). All data are flagged as appropriate.

QAPP Information Reference(s):

Quality Assurance Project Plan for Monitoring for the Region 3 Conditional Ag Waiver Cooperative Monitoring Program, Revision 6

Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 84298, Nitrate	Region 3
Chualar Creek, South Branch

LOE ID:

28100

Pollutant:

Nitrate

LOE Subgroup:

Pollutant-Water

Matrix:

Water

Fraction:

None

Beneficial Use:

Warm Freshwater Habitat

Number of Samples:

Number of Exceedances:

Data and Information Type:

PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING

Data Used to Assess Water Quality:

Data for this assessment unit was collected by one monitoring project: Central Coast Watershed Studies (R3_CCOWS)

Data Reference:

Final Data File used for assessment: CCoWS (Central Coast Watershed Studies) Water Quality Data

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)

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:

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.

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

Spatial Representation:

Data for this line of evidence for Esperanza Creek was collected at 2 monitoring sites [ Between Hwy 101 & Railway, South of Esperanza Rd, Old Stage Rd]

Temporal Representation:

Data was collected over the time period 8/22/2001-5/23/2002.

Environmental Conditions:

Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might effect interpretation of the data.

QAPP Information:

Data quality is good and Standard Operating Procedures are well documented in QAPP. However, data documentation is poor and replicate samples and other quality assurance measurements are not consistently documented in this data set.

QAPP Information Reference(s):

Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 84298, Nitrate	Region 3
Chualar Creek, South Branch

LOE ID:

48475

Pollutant:

Nitrate

LOE Subgroup:

Pollutant-Water

Matrix:

Water

Fraction:

None

Beneficial Use:

Warm Freshwater Habitat

Number of Samples:

Number of Exceedances:

Data and Information Type:

PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING

Data Used to Assess Water Quality:

Data Reference:

Data from Region 3 Conditional Waiver Cooperative Monitoring Program, Jan. 2007-Jun. 2010

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:

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:

Spatial Representation:

Data for this line of evidence for Esperanza Creek was collected at 2 monitoring sites [ 309SOS - Chualar Creek South Branch at Old Stage, 309SBC - Chualar Creek South branch at Highway 101]

Temporal Representation:

Data was collected over the time period 10/29/2008-11/19/2008.

Environmental Conditions:

Central Coast Water Board Staff are not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.

QAPP Information:

QAPP Information Reference(s):

Quality Assurance Project Plan for Monitoring for the Region 3 Conditional Ag Waiver Cooperative Monitoring Program, Revision 6

Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 84298, Nitrate	Region 3
Chualar Creek, South Branch

LOE ID:

48476

Pollutant:

Nitrate/Nitrite (Nitrite + Nitrate as N)

LOE Subgroup:

Pollutant-Water

Matrix:

Water

Fraction:

None

Beneficial Use:

Cold Freshwater Habitat

Number of Samples:

Number of Exceedances:

Data and Information Type:

PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING

Data Used to Assess Water Quality:

Central Coast Water Board Staff assessed public submissions data for Esperanza Creek to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 21 of 21 samples exceed the criterion for Nitrate/Nitrite as N.

Data Reference:

Data from Region 3 Conditional Waiver Cooperative Monitoring Program, Jan. 2007-Jun. 2010

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:

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:

Spatial Representation:

Data for this line of evidence for Esperanza Creek was collected at 2 monitoring sites [ 309SBC - Chualar Creek South branch at Highway 101, 309SOS - Chualar Creek South Branch at Old Stage]

Temporal Representation:

Data was collected over the time period 1/25/2008-11/19/2008.

Environmental Conditions:

Central Coast Water Board Staff are not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.

QAPP Information:

QAPP Information Reference(s):

Quality Assurance Project Plan for Monitoring for the Region 3 Conditional Ag Waiver Cooperative Monitoring Program, Revision 6

Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 84298, Nitrate	Region 3
Chualar Creek, South Branch

LOE ID:

13783

Pollutant:

Nitrate

LOE Subgroup:

Pollutant-Water

Matrix:

Water

Fraction:

None

Beneficial Use:

Municipal & Domestic Supply

Number of Samples:

Number of Exceedances:

Data and Information Type:

PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING

Data Used to Assess Water Quality:

Central Coast Regional Board Staff assessed Central Coast Watershed Studies (R3_CCOWS) data for Esperanza Creek to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 3 of 3 samples exceed the criterion for Nitrate as N.

Data Reference:

Final Data File used for assessment: CCoWS (Central Coast Watershed Studies) Water Quality Data

SWAMP Data:

Non-SWAMP

Water Quality Objective/Criterion:

The Water Quality Control Plan, Central Coast Basin Objective for municipal and domestic supply uses of inland surface waters (Section II.A.2) states the following: waters shall not contain concentrations of chemical constituents in excess of the limits specified in California Code of Regulations, Title 22, Article 4, Chapter 15, Section 64435, Tables 2 and 3 as listed in Table 3-2. The maximum contaminant level listed in Table 3-2 (inorganic and fluoride concentrations not to be exceeded in domestic or municipal supply) for nitrate is 10.0 mg/L (NO3 as N).

Objective/Criterion Reference:

Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) - Central Coast Region (Region 3)

Objective/Criterion Reference:

Title 22, Division 4, Ch. 15, Article 4, Section 64431, Table 64431-A

Evaluation Guideline:

Guideline Reference:

Spatial Representation:

Data for this line of evidence for Esperanza Creek was collected at 2 monitoring sites [ Between Hwy 101 & Railway, South of Esperanza Rd, Old Stage Rd]

Temporal Representation:

Data was collected over the time period 8/22/2001-5/23/2002.

Environmental Conditions:

Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might effect interpretation of the data.

QAPP Information:

QAPP Information Reference(s):

Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 84298, Nitrate	Region 3
Chualar Creek, South Branch

LOE ID:

48478

Pollutant:

Nitrate/Nitrite (Nitrite + Nitrate as N)

LOE Subgroup:

Pollutant-Water

Matrix:

Water

Fraction:

None

Beneficial Use:

Warm Freshwater Habitat

Number of Samples:

Number of Exceedances:

Data and Information Type:

PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING

Data Used to Assess Water Quality:

Data Reference:

Data from Region 3 Conditional Waiver Cooperative Monitoring Program, Jan. 2007-Jun. 2010

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:

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:

Spatial Representation:

Data for this line of evidence for Esperanza Creek was collected at 2 monitoring sites [ 309SBC - Chualar Creek South branch at Highway 101, 309SOS - Chualar Creek South Branch at Old Stage]

Temporal Representation:

Data was collected over the time period 1/25/2008-11/19/2008.

Environmental Conditions:

Central Coast Water Board Staff are not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.

QAPP Information:

QAPP Information Reference(s):

Quality Assurance Project Plan for Monitoring for the Region 3 Conditional Ag Waiver Cooperative Monitoring Program, Revision 6

Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 84298, Nitrate	Region 3
Chualar Creek, South Branch

LOE ID:

28099

Pollutant:

Nitrate

LOE Subgroup:

Pollutant-Water

Matrix:

Water

Fraction:

None

Beneficial Use:

Cold Freshwater Habitat

Number of Samples:

Number of Exceedances:

Data and Information Type:

PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING

Data Used to Assess Water Quality:

Data for this assessment unit was collected by one monitoring project: Central Coast Watershed Studies (R3_CCOWS)

Data Reference:

Final Data File used for assessment: CCoWS (Central Coast Watershed Studies) Water Quality Data

SWAMP Data:

Non-SWAMP

Water Quality Objective/Criterion:

Objective/Criterion Reference:

Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) - Central Coast Region (Region 3)

Evaluation Guideline:

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

Spatial Representation:

Data for this line of evidence for Esperanza Creek was collected at 2 monitoring sites [ Between Hwy 101 & Railway, South of Esperanza Rd, Old Stage Rd]

Temporal Representation:

Data was collected over the time period 8/22/2001-5/23/2002.

Environmental Conditions:

Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might effect interpretation of the data.

QAPP Information:

QAPP Information Reference(s):

Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 84298, Nitrate	Region 3
Chualar Creek, South Branch

LOE ID:

48463

Pollutant:

Nitrate

LOE Subgroup:

Pollutant-Water

Matrix:

Water

Fraction:

None

Beneficial Use:

Cold Freshwater Habitat

Number of Samples:

Number of Exceedances:

Data and Information Type:

PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING

Data Used to Assess Water Quality:

Data Reference:

Data from Region 3 Conditional Waiver Cooperative Monitoring Program, Jan. 2007-Jun. 2010

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:

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:

Spatial Representation:

Data for this line of evidence for Esperanza Creek was collected at 2 monitoring sites [ 309SOS - Chualar Creek South Branch at Old Stage, 309SBC - Chualar Creek South branch at Highway 101]

Temporal Representation:

Data was collected over the time period 10/29/2008-11/19/2008.

Environmental Conditions:

Central Coast Water Board Staff are not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.

QAPP Information:

QAPP Information Reference(s):

Quality Assurance Project Plan for Monitoring for the Region 3 Conditional Ag Waiver Cooperative Monitoring Program, Revision 6

Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 84298, Nitrate	Region 3
Chualar Creek, South Branch

LOE ID:

48477

Pollutant:

Nitrate/Nitrite (Nitrite + Nitrate as N)

LOE Subgroup:

Pollutant-Water

Matrix:

Water

Fraction:

None

Beneficial Use:

Municipal & Domestic Supply

Number of Samples:

Number of Exceedances:

Data and Information Type:

PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING

Data Used to Assess Water Quality:

Data Reference:

Data from Region 3 Conditional Waiver Cooperative Monitoring Program, Jan. 2007-Jun. 2010

SWAMP Data:

Non-SWAMP

Water Quality Objective/Criterion:

The California Maximum Contaminant Level for nitrate + nitrite (as N) that is incorporated by reference in the Basin Plan is 10.0 mg/L (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 Esperanza Creek was collected at 2 monitoring sites [ 309SBC - Chualar Creek South branch at Highway 101, 309SOS - Chualar Creek South Branch at Old Stage]

Temporal Representation:

Data was collected over the time period 1/25/2008-11/19/2008.

Environmental Conditions:

Central Coast Water Board Staff are not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.

QAPP Information:

QAPP Information Reference(s):

Quality Assurance Project Plan for Monitoring for the Region 3 Conditional Ag Waiver Cooperative Monitoring Program, Revision 6


DECISION ID	80362	Region 3
Chualar Creek, South Branch

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. Two lines of evidence are available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. Zero of the 21 samples exceed the evaluation guideline used to interpret the narrative water quality objective for bio-stimulation risk. 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. Zero of the 21 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 80362, Chlorophyll-a	Region 3
Chualar Creek, South Branch

LOE ID:

48462

Pollutant:

Chlorophyll-a

LOE Subgroup:

Pollutant-Water

Matrix:

Water

Fraction:

None

Beneficial Use:

Warm Freshwater Habitat

Number of Samples:

Number of Exceedances:

Data and Information Type:

PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING

Data Used to Assess Water Quality:

Central Coast Water Board Staff assessed public submissions data for Esperanza Creek to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 21 samples exceed the criterion for Chlorophyll a.

Data Reference:

Data from Region 3 Conditional Waiver Cooperative Monitoring Program, Jan. 2007-Jun. 2010

SWAMP Data:

Non-SWAMP

Water Quality Objective/Criterion:

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:

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 Esperanza Creek was collected at 2 monitoring sites [ 309SBC - Chualar Creek South branch at Highway 101, 309SOS - Chualar Creek South Branch at Old Stage]

Temporal Representation:

Data was collected over the time period 1/25/2008-11/19/2008.

Environmental Conditions:

Central Coast Water Board Staff are not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.

QAPP Information:

QAPP Information Reference(s):

Quality Assurance Project Plan for Monitoring for the Region 3 Conditional Ag Waiver Cooperative Monitoring Program, Revision 6

Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 80362, Chlorophyll-a	Region 3
Chualar Creek, South Branch

LOE ID:

48461

Pollutant:

Chlorophyll-a

LOE Subgroup:

Pollutant-Water

Matrix:

Water

Fraction:

None

Beneficial Use:

Cold Freshwater Habitat

Number of Samples:

Number of Exceedances:

Data and Information Type:

PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING

Data Used to Assess Water Quality:

Data Reference:

Data from Region 3 Conditional Waiver Cooperative Monitoring Program, Jan. 2007-Jun. 2010

SWAMP Data:

Non-SWAMP

Water Quality Objective/Criterion:

Objective/Criterion Reference:

Water Quality Control Plan for the Central Coastal Basin

Evaluation Guideline:

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 Esperanza Creek was collected at 2 monitoring sites [ 309SBC - Chualar Creek South branch at Highway 101, 309SOS - Chualar Creek South Branch at Old Stage]

Temporal Representation:

Data was collected over the time period 1/25/2008-11/19/2008.

Environmental Conditions:

Central Coast Water Board Staff are not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.

QAPP Information:

QAPP Information Reference(s):

Quality Assurance Project Plan for Monitoring for the Region 3 Conditional Ag Waiver Cooperative Monitoring Program, Revision 6


DECISION ID	73235	Region 3
Chualar Creek, South Branch

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 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. Both of the samples exceed the Evaluation Guideline (USEPA Ambient Water Quality Criteria for Bacteria, 1986) as it applies to the Water Contact Recreation beneficial use. Neither exceed the water quality objective for Non-Contact Recreation. 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. Both of the samples exceed the Evaluation Guideline (USEPA Ambient Water Quality Criteria for Bacteria, 1986) as it applies to the Water Contact Recreation beneficial use. Neither exceed the water quality objective for Non-Contact Recreation. The 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 fully supported using Table 3.2. 4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.

Regional Board Decision Recommendation:	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 73235, Escherichia coli (E. coli)	Region 3
Chualar Creek, South Branch

LOE ID:

13678

Pollutant:

Escherichia coli (E. coli)

LOE Subgroup:

Pollutant-Water

Matrix:

Water

Fraction:

None

Beneficial Use:

Water Contact Recreation

Number of Samples:

Number of Exceedances:

Data and Information Type:

PATHOGEN MONITORING

Data Used to Assess Water Quality:

Central Coast Regional Board Staff assessed Central Coast Watershed Studies (R3_CCOWS) data for Esperanza Creek to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 2 of 2 samples exceed the criterion for Escherichia coli.

Data Reference:

Final Data File used for assessment: CCoWS (Central Coast Watershed Studies) 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 Esperanza Creek was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Old Stage Rd]

Temporal Representation:

Data was collected over the time period 1/31/2002-8/13/2002.

Environmental Conditions:

Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might effect interpretation of the data.

QAPP Information:

QAPP Information Reference(s):

Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 73235, Escherichia coli (E. coli)	Region 3
Chualar Creek, South Branch

LOE ID:

13679

Pollutant:

Escherichia coli (E. coli)

LOE Subgroup:

Pollutant-Water

Matrix:

Water

Fraction:

None

Beneficial Use:

Non-Contact Recreation

Number of Samples:

Number of Exceedances:

Data and Information Type:

PATHOGEN MONITORING

Data Used to Assess Water Quality:

Central Coast Regional Board Staff assessed Central Coast Watershed Studies (R3_CCOWS) data for Esperanza Creek to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 2 samples exceed the criterion for Escherichia coli.

Data Reference:

Final Data File used for assessment: CCoWS (Central Coast Watershed Studies) 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 Esperanza Creek was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Old Stage Rd]

Temporal Representation:

Data was collected over the time period 1/31/2002-8/13/2002.

Environmental Conditions:

Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might effect interpretation of the data.

QAPP Information:

QAPP Information Reference(s):


DECISION ID	73289	Region 3
Chualar Creek, South Branch

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. Two lines of evidence are available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. Three of the 4 samples exceed the water quality objective for Water Contact Recreation. Two of the 4 samples exceed the water quality objective for Non-Contact Recreation. This conclusion is based on the staff findings that: 1. The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy. 2. The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy. 3. Three of the 4 samples exceed the water quality objective for Water Contact Recreation. Two of the 4 samples exceed the water quality objective for Non-Contact Recreation. The 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 fully supported using Table 3.2. 4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.

Regional Board Decision Recommendation:	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 73289, Fecal Coliform	Region 3
Chualar Creek, South Branch

LOE ID:

13777

Pollutant:

Fecal Coliform

LOE Subgroup:

Pollutant-Water

Matrix:

Water

Fraction:

None

Beneficial Use:

Water Contact Recreation

Number of Samples:

Number of Exceedances:

Data and Information Type:

PATHOGEN MONITORING

Data Used to Assess Water Quality:

Data Reference:

Final Data File used for assessment: CCoWS (Central Coast Watershed Studies) Water Quality Data

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:

Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) - Central Coast Region (Region 3)

Evaluation Guideline:

Guideline Reference:

Spatial Representation:

Data for this line of evidence for Esperanza Creek was collected at 2 monitoring sites [ Between Hwy 101 & Railway, South of Esperanza Rd, Old Stage Rd]

Temporal Representation:

Data was collected over the time period 8/22/2001-8/13/2002.

Environmental Conditions:

Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might effect interpretation of the data.

QAPP Information:

QAPP Information Reference(s):

Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 73289, Fecal Coliform	Region 3
Chualar Creek, South Branch

LOE ID:

13778

Pollutant:

Fecal Coliform

LOE Subgroup:

Pollutant-Water

Matrix:

Water

Fraction:

None

Beneficial Use:

Non-Contact Recreation

Number of Samples:

Number of Exceedances:

Data and Information Type:

PATHOGEN MONITORING

Data Used to Assess Water Quality:

Central Coast Regional Board Staff assessed Central Coast Watershed Studies (R3_CCOWS) data for Esperanza Creek to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 2 of 4 samples exceed the criterion for Coliform, Fecal (400MPN/100mL).

Data Reference:

Final Data File used for assessment: CCoWS (Central Coast Watershed Studies) Water Quality Data

SWAMP Data:

Non-SWAMP

Water Quality Objective/Criterion:

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 Esperanza Creek was collected at 2 monitoring sites [ Between Hwy 101 & Railway, South of Esperanza Rd, Old Stage Rd]

Temporal Representation:

Data was collected over the time period 8/22/2001-8/13/2002.

Environmental Conditions:

Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might effect interpretation of the data.

QAPP Information:

QAPP Information Reference(s):


DECISION ID	80408	Region 3
Chualar Creek, South Branch

Pollutant:	Oxygen, Dissolved
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. Four lines of evidence are available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. Three of the 21 samples exceeded the Cold Freshwater Habitat water quality objective for dissolved oxygen, zero of the 21 samples exceeded the Warm Freshwater Habitat water quality objective for dissolved oxygen. The Basin Plan general water quality objective for oxygen saturation states that the median value shall not fall below 85% saturation. However, 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. Therefore, the use support rating for this pollutant is set at insufficient information. 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. Three of the 21 samples exceeded the Cold Freshwater Habitat water quality objective for dissolved oxygen, zero of the 21 samples exceeded the Warm Freshwater Habitat water quality objective for dissolved oxygen. 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:	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 80408, Oxygen, Dissolved	Region 3
Chualar Creek, South Branch

LOE ID:

48489

Pollutant:

Oxygen, Dissolved

LOE Subgroup:

Pollutant-Water

Matrix:

Water

Fraction:

Dissolved

Beneficial Use:

Cold Freshwater Habitat

Number of Samples:

Number of Exceedances:

Data and Information Type:

PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING

Data Used to Assess Water Quality:

Central Coast Water Board Staff assessed public submissions data for Esperanza Creek to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 3 of 21 samples exceed the criterion for Oxygen, Dissolved.

Data Reference:

Data from Region 3 Conditional Waiver Cooperative Monitoring Program, Jan. 2007-Jun. 2010

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 Esperanza Creek was collected at 2 monitoring sites [ 309SBC - Chualar Creek South branch at Highway 101, 309SOS - Chualar Creek South Branch at Old Stage]

Temporal Representation:

Data was collected over the time period 1/25/2008-11/19/2008.

Environmental Conditions:

Central Coast Water Board Staff are not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.

QAPP Information:

QAPP Information Reference(s):

Quality Assurance Project Plan for Monitoring for the Region 3 Conditional Ag Waiver Cooperative Monitoring Program, Revision 6

Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 80408, Oxygen, Dissolved	Region 3
Chualar Creek, South Branch

LOE ID:

48490

Pollutant:

Oxygen, Dissolved

LOE Subgroup:

Pollutant-Water

Matrix:

Water

Fraction:

Dissolved

Beneficial Use:

Warm Freshwater Habitat

Number of Samples:

Number of Exceedances:

Data and Information Type:

PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING

Data Used to Assess Water Quality:

Data Reference:

Data from Region 3 Conditional Waiver Cooperative Monitoring Program, Jan. 2007-Jun. 2010

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 Esperanza Creek was collected at 2 monitoring sites [ 309SBC - Chualar Creek South branch at Highway 101, 309SOS - Chualar Creek South Branch at Old Stage]

Temporal Representation:

Data was collected over the time period 1/25/2008-11/19/2008.

Environmental Conditions:

Central Coast Water Board Staff are not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.

QAPP Information:

QAPP Information Reference(s):

Quality Assurance Project Plan for Monitoring for the Region 3 Conditional Ag Waiver Cooperative Monitoring Program, Revision 6

Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 80408, Oxygen, Dissolved	Region 3
Chualar Creek, South Branch

LOE ID:

48491

Pollutant:

Dissolved oxygen saturation

LOE Subgroup:

Pollutant-Water

Matrix:

Water

Fraction:

None

Beneficial Use:

Cold Freshwater Habitat

Number of Samples:

Number of Exceedances:

Data and Information Type:

PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING

Data Used to Assess Water Quality:

Central Coast Water Board Staff assessed public submissions data for Esperanza Creek to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 4 of 21 samples exceed the criterion for Oxygen, Saturation.

Data Reference:

Data from Region 3 Conditional Waiver Cooperative Monitoring Program, Jan. 2007-Jun. 2010

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 Esperanza Creek was collected at 2 monitoring sites [ 309SBC - Chualar Creek South branch at Highway 101, 309SOS - Chualar Creek South Branch at Old Stage]

Temporal Representation:

Data was collected over the time period 1/25/2008-11/19/2008.

Environmental Conditions:

Central Coast Water Board Staff are not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.

QAPP Information:

QAPP Information Reference(s):

Quality Assurance Project Plan for Monitoring for the Region 3 Conditional Ag Waiver Cooperative Monitoring Program, Revision 6

Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 80408, Oxygen, Dissolved	Region 3
Chualar Creek, South Branch

LOE ID:

48492

Pollutant:

Dissolved oxygen saturation

LOE Subgroup:

Pollutant-Water

Matrix:

Water

Fraction:

None

Beneficial Use:

Warm Freshwater Habitat

Number of Samples:

Number of Exceedances:

Data and Information Type:

PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING

Data Used to Assess Water Quality:

Data Reference:

Data from Region 3 Conditional Waiver Cooperative Monitoring Program, Jan. 2007-Jun. 2010

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 Esperanza Creek was collected at 2 monitoring sites [ 309SBC - Chualar Creek South branch at Highway 101, 309SOS - Chualar Creek South Branch at Old Stage]

Temporal Representation:

Data was collected over the time period 1/25/2008-11/19/2008.

Environmental Conditions:

Central Coast Water Board Staff are not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.

QAPP Information:

QAPP Information Reference(s):

Quality Assurance Project Plan for Monitoring for the Region 3 Conditional Ag Waiver Cooperative Monitoring Program, Revision 6


DECISION ID	80409	Region 3
Chualar Creek, South Branch

Pollutant:	Temperature, water
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:	2023
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. One line of evidence is available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. Eight of the 24 samples exceed the evaluation guideline (Moyle, 1976) used to interpret the water quality objective for water temperature. 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. Eight of the 24 samples exceed the evaluation guideline and this exceeds the allowable frequency listed in Table 3.2 of the Listing Policy. 4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are 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 80409, Temperature, water	Region 3
Chualar Creek, South Branch

LOE ID:

48527

Pollutant:

Temperature, water

LOE Subgroup:

Pollutant-Water

Matrix:

Water

Fraction:

None

Beneficial Use:

Cold Freshwater Habitat

Number of Samples:

Number of Exceedances:

Data and Information Type:

PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING

Data Used to Assess Water Quality:

Central Coast Water Board Staff assessed public submissions data for Esperanza Creek to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 8 of 21 samples exceed the criterion for Water Temperature.

Data Reference:

Data from Region 3 Conditional Waiver Cooperative Monitoring Program, Jan. 2007-Jun. 2010

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 Esperanza Creek was collected at 2 monitoring sites [ 309SBC - Chualar Creek South branch at Highway 101, 309SOS - Chualar Creek South Branch at Old Stage]

Temporal Representation:

Data was collected over the time period 1/25/2008-11/19/2008.

Environmental Conditions:

Central Coast Water Board Staff are not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.

QAPP Information:

QAPP Information Reference(s):

Quality Assurance Project Plan for Monitoring for the Region 3 Conditional Ag Waiver Cooperative Monitoring Program, Revision 6


DECISION ID	74645	Region 3
Chualar Creek, South Branch

Pollutant:	Turbidity
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:	2023
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. Four lines of evidence are available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. Twenty-three of the 23 samples exceed the cold freshwater habitat evaluation guideline (Sigler et al. 1984) and 22 of the 23 samples also exceed the warm freshwater habitat evaluation guideline (Shoup, D.E. and Wahl D.H., 2009), both used to interpret the water quality objective for turbidity. 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-three of the 23 samples exceed the cold freshwater habitat evaluation guideline and 22 of the 23 samples also exceed the warm freshwater habitat evaluation guideline and these exceeds the allowable frequency listed in Table 3.2 of the Listing Policy. 4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are 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 74645, Turbidity	Region 3
Chualar Creek, South Branch

LOE ID:

13753

Pollutant:

Turbidity

LOE Subgroup:

Pollutant-Water

Matrix:

Water

Fraction:

None

Beneficial Use:

Warm Freshwater Habitat

Aquatic Life Use:

Warm Freshwater Habitat

Number of Samples:

Number of Exceedances:

Data and Information Type:

PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING

Data Used to Assess Water Quality:

Central Coast Regional Board Staff assessed Central Coast Watershed Studies (R3_CCOWS) data for Esperanza Creek to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 2 of 2 samples exceed the criterion for Turbidity(NTU).

Data Reference:

Final Data File used for assessment: CCoWS (Central Coast Watershed Studies) Water Quality Data

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 Esperanza Creek was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Between Hwy 101 & Railway, South of Esperanza Rd]

Temporal Representation:

Data was collected over the time period 8/22/2001-9/27/2001.

Environmental Conditions:

Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might effect interpretation of the data.

QAPP Information:

QAPP Information Reference(s):

Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 74645, Turbidity	Region 3
Chualar Creek, South Branch

LOE ID:

48510

Pollutant:

Turbidity

LOE Subgroup:

Pollutant-Water

Matrix:

Water

Fraction:

None

Beneficial Use:

Cold Freshwater Habitat

Number of Samples:

Number of Exceedances:

Data and Information Type:

PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING

Data Used to Assess Water Quality:

Data Reference:

Data from Region 3 Conditional Waiver Cooperative Monitoring Program, Jan. 2007-Jun. 2010

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 Esperanza Creek was collected at 2 monitoring sites [ 309SBC - Chualar Creek South branch at Highway 101, 309SOS - Chualar Creek South Branch at Old Stage]

Temporal Representation:

Data was collected over the time period 1/25/2008-11/19/2008.

Environmental Conditions:

Central Coast Water Board Staff are not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.

QAPP Information:

QAPP Information Reference(s):

Quality Assurance Project Plan for Monitoring for the Region 3 Conditional Ag Waiver Cooperative Monitoring Program, Revision 6

Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 74645, Turbidity	Region 3
Chualar Creek, South Branch

LOE ID:

48511

Pollutant:

Turbidity

LOE Subgroup:

Pollutant-Water

Matrix:

Water

Fraction:

None

Beneficial Use:

Warm Freshwater Habitat

Number of Samples:

Number of Exceedances:

Data and Information Type:

PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING

Data Used to Assess Water Quality:

Central Coast Water Board Staff assessed public submissions data for Esperanza Creek to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 20 of 21 samples exceed the criterion for Turbidity(NTU).

Data Reference:

Data from Region 3 Conditional Waiver Cooperative Monitoring Program, Jan. 2007-Jun. 2010

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 Esperanza Creek was collected at 2 monitoring sites [ 309SBC - Chualar Creek South branch at Highway 101, 309SOS - Chualar Creek South Branch at Old Stage]

Temporal Representation:

Data was collected over the time period 1/25/2008-11/19/2008.

Environmental Conditions:

Central Coast Water Board Staff are not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.

QAPP Information:

QAPP Information Reference(s):

Quality Assurance Project Plan for Monitoring for the Region 3 Conditional Ag Waiver Cooperative Monitoring Program, Revision 6

Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 74645, Turbidity	Region 3
Chualar Creek, South Branch

LOE ID:

13752

Pollutant:

Turbidity

LOE Subgroup:

Pollutant-Water

Matrix:

Water

Fraction:

None

Beneficial Use:

Cold Freshwater Habitat

Aquatic Life Use:

Cold Freshwater Habitat

Number of Samples:

Number of Exceedances:

Data and Information Type:

PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING

Data Used to Assess Water Quality:

Central Coast Regional Board Staff assessed Central Coast Watershed Studies (R3_CCOWS) data for Esperanza Creek to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 2 of 2 samples exceed the criterion for Turbidity(NTU).

Data Reference:

Final Data File used for assessment: CCoWS (Central Coast Watershed Studies) Water Quality Data

SWAMP Data:

Non-SWAMP

Water Quality Objective/Criterion:

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 Esperanza Creek was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Between Hwy 101 & Railway, South of Esperanza Rd]

Temporal Representation:

Data was collected over the time period 8/22/2001-9/27/2001.

Environmental Conditions:

Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might effect interpretation of the data.

QAPP Information:

QAPP Information Reference(s):


DECISION ID	74811	Region 3
Chualar Creek, South Branch

Pollutant:	pH
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:	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. Five beneficial uses are assessed. Six of the 23 samples exceeded the water quality objectives for Drinking Water and Recreation and 2 of the 23 samples also exceed the water quality objectives for Cold and Warm Freshwater Habitats. 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. Six of the 23 samples exceeded the water quality objectives for Drinking Water and Recreation and this exceeds the allowable frequency listed in Table 3.2 of the Listing Policy. 4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are 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 74811, pH	Region 3
Chualar Creek, South Branch

LOE ID:

48509

Pollutant:

LOE Subgroup:

Pollutant-Water

Matrix:

Water

Fraction:

None

Beneficial Use:

Warm Freshwater Habitat

Number of Samples:

Number of Exceedances:

Data and Information Type:

PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING

Data Used to Assess Water Quality:

Central Coast Water Board Staff assessed public submissions data for Esperanza Creek to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 2 of 21 samples exceed the criterion for pH.

Data Reference:

Data from Region 3 Conditional Waiver Cooperative Monitoring Program, Jan. 2007-Jun. 2010

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 Esperanza Creek was collected at 2 monitoring sites [ 309SBC - Chualar Creek South branch at Highway 101, 309SOS - Chualar Creek South Branch at Old Stage]

Temporal Representation:

Data was collected over the time period 1/25/2008-11/19/2008.

Environmental Conditions:

Central Coast Water Board Staff are not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.

QAPP Information:

QAPP Information Reference(s):

Quality Assurance Project Plan for Monitoring for the Region 3 Conditional Ag Waiver Cooperative Monitoring Program, Revision 6

Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 74811, pH	Region 3
Chualar Creek, South Branch

LOE ID:

13889

Pollutant:

LOE Subgroup:

Pollutant-Water

Matrix:

Water

Fraction:

None

Beneficial Use:

Non-Contact Recreation

Number of Samples:

Number of Exceedances:

Data and Information Type:

PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING

Data Used to Assess Water Quality:

Data Reference:

Final Data File used for assessment: CCoWS (Central Coast Watershed Studies) Water Quality Data

SWAMP Data:

Non-SWAMP

Water Quality Objective/Criterion:

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 Esperanza Creek was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Between Hwy 101 & Railway, South of Esperanza Rd]

Temporal Representation:

Data was collected over the time period 8/22/2001-9/27/2001.

Environmental Conditions:

Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might effect interpretation of the data.

QAPP Information:

QAPP Information Reference(s):

Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 74811, pH	Region 3
Chualar Creek, South Branch

LOE ID:

48508

Pollutant:

LOE Subgroup:

Pollutant-Water

Matrix:

Water

Fraction:

None

Beneficial Use:

Non-Contact Recreation

Number of Samples:

Number of Exceedances:

Data and Information Type:

PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING

Data Used to Assess Water Quality:

Central Coast Water Board Staff assessed public submissions data for Esperanza Creek to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 5 of 21 samples exceed the criterion for pH.

Data Reference:

Data from Region 3 Conditional Waiver Cooperative Monitoring Program, Jan. 2007-Jun. 2010

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 Esperanza Creek was collected at 2 monitoring sites [ 309SBC - Chualar Creek South branch at Highway 101, 309SOS - Chualar Creek South Branch at Old Stage]

Temporal Representation:

Data was collected over the time period 1/25/2008-11/19/2008.

Environmental Conditions:

Central Coast Water Board Staff are not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.

QAPP Information:

QAPP Information Reference(s):

Quality Assurance Project Plan for Monitoring for the Region 3 Conditional Ag Waiver Cooperative Monitoring Program, Revision 6

Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 74811, pH	Region 3
Chualar Creek, South Branch

LOE ID:

48494

Pollutant:

LOE Subgroup:

Pollutant-Water

Matrix:

Water

Fraction:

None

Beneficial Use:

Municipal & Domestic Supply

Number of Samples:

Number of Exceedances:

Data and Information Type:

PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING

Data Used to Assess Water Quality:

Central Coast Water Board Staff assessed public submissions data for Esperanza Creek to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 5 of 21 samples exceed the criterion for pH.

Data Reference:

Data from Region 3 Conditional Waiver Cooperative Monitoring Program, Jan. 2007-Jun. 2010

SWAMP Data:

Non-SWAMP

Water Quality Objective/Criterion:

The pH value shall not be depressed below 6.5 or 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 Esperanza Creek was collected at 2 monitoring sites [ 309SBC - Chualar Creek South branch at Highway 101, 309SOS - Chualar Creek South Branch at Old Stage]

Temporal Representation:

Data was collected over the time period 1/25/2008-11/19/2008.

Environmental Conditions:

Central Coast Water Board Staff are not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.

QAPP Information:

QAPP Information Reference(s):

Quality Assurance Project Plan for Monitoring for the Region 3 Conditional Ag Waiver Cooperative Monitoring Program, Revision 6

Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 74811, pH	Region 3
Chualar Creek, South Branch

LOE ID:

13873

Pollutant:

LOE Subgroup:

Pollutant-Water

Matrix:

Water

Fraction:

None

Beneficial Use:

Municipal & Domestic Supply

Number of Samples:

Number of Exceedances:

Data and Information Type:

PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING

Data Used to Assess Water Quality:

Data Reference:

Final Data File used for assessment: CCoWS (Central Coast Watershed Studies) Water Quality Data

SWAMP Data:

Non-SWAMP

Water Quality Objective/Criterion:

The Water Quality Control Plan, Central Coast Basin, Section II.A.2. Municipal and Domestic Supply Objectives, Section II.A.2.a states the following: The pH value shall neither be depressed below 6.5 or 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 Esperanza Creek was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Between Hwy 101 & Railway, South of Esperanza Rd]

Temporal Representation:

Data was collected over the time period 8/22/2001-9/27/2001.

Environmental Conditions:

Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might effect interpretation of the data.

QAPP Information:

QAPP Information Reference(s):

Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 74811, pH	Region 3
Chualar Creek, South Branch

LOE ID:

48493

Pollutant:

LOE Subgroup:

Pollutant-Water

Matrix:

Water

Fraction:

None

Beneficial Use:

Cold Freshwater Habitat

Number of Samples:

Number of Exceedances:

Data and Information Type:

PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING

Data Used to Assess Water Quality:

Central Coast Water Board Staff assessed public submissions data for Esperanza Creek to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 2 of 21 samples exceed the criterion for pH.

Data Reference:

Data from Region 3 Conditional Waiver Cooperative Monitoring Program, Jan. 2007-Jun. 2010

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 Esperanza Creek was collected at 2 monitoring sites [ 309SBC - Chualar Creek South branch at Highway 101, 309SOS - Chualar Creek South Branch at Old Stage]

Temporal Representation:

Data was collected over the time period 1/25/2008-11/19/2008.

Environmental Conditions:

Central Coast Water Board Staff are not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.

QAPP Information:

QAPP Information Reference(s):

Quality Assurance Project Plan for Monitoring for the Region 3 Conditional Ag Waiver Cooperative Monitoring Program, Revision 6

Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 74811, pH	Region 3
Chualar Creek, South Branch

LOE ID:

13872

Pollutant:

LOE Subgroup:

Pollutant-Water

Matrix:

Water

Fraction:

None

Beneficial Use:

Cold Freshwater Habitat

Aquatic Life Use:

Cold Freshwater Habitat

Number of Samples:

Number of Exceedances:

Data and Information Type:

PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING

Data Used to Assess Water Quality:

Data Reference:

Final Data File used for assessment: CCoWS (Central Coast Watershed Studies) Water Quality Data

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 Esperanza Creek was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Between Hwy 101 & Railway, South of Esperanza Rd]

Temporal Representation:

Data was collected over the time period 8/22/2001-9/27/2001.

Environmental Conditions:

Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might effect interpretation of the data.

QAPP Information:

QAPP Information Reference(s):

Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 74811, pH	Region 3
Chualar Creek, South Branch

LOE ID:

48507

Pollutant:

LOE Subgroup:

Pollutant-Water

Matrix:

Water

Fraction:

None

Beneficial Use:

Water Contact Recreation

Number of Samples:

Number of Exceedances:

Data and Information Type:

PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING

Data Used to Assess Water Quality:

Central Coast Water Board Staff assessed public submissions data for Esperanza Creek to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 5 of 21 samples exceed the criterion for pH.

Data Reference:

Data from Region 3 Conditional Waiver Cooperative Monitoring Program, Jan. 2007-Jun. 2010

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 Esperanza Creek was collected at 2 monitoring sites [ 309SBC - Chualar Creek South branch at Highway 101, 309SOS - Chualar Creek South Branch at Old Stage]

Temporal Representation:

Data was collected over the time period 1/25/2008-11/19/2008.

Environmental Conditions:

Central Coast Water Board Staff are not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.

QAPP Information:

QAPP Information Reference(s):

Quality Assurance Project Plan for Monitoring for the Region 3 Conditional Ag Waiver Cooperative Monitoring Program, Revision 6

Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 74811, pH	Region 3
Chualar Creek, South Branch

LOE ID:

13890

Pollutant:

LOE Subgroup:

Pollutant-Water

Matrix:

Water

Fraction:

None

Beneficial Use:

Warm Freshwater Habitat

Aquatic Life Use:

Warm Freshwater Habitat

Number of Samples:

Number of Exceedances:

Data and Information Type:

PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING

Data Used to Assess Water Quality:

Data Reference:

Final Data File used for assessment: CCoWS (Central Coast Watershed Studies) Water Quality Data

SWAMP Data:

Non-SWAMP

Water Quality Objective/Criterion:

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 Esperanza Creek was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Between Hwy 101 & Railway, South of Esperanza Rd]

Temporal Representation:

Data was collected over the time period 8/22/2001-9/27/2001.

Environmental Conditions:

Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might effect interpretation of the data.

QAPP Information:

QAPP Information Reference(s):

Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 74811, pH	Region 3
Chualar Creek, South Branch

LOE ID:

13874

Pollutant:

LOE Subgroup:

Pollutant-Water

Matrix:

Water

Fraction:

None

Beneficial Use:

Water Contact Recreation

Number of Samples:

Number of Exceedances:

Data and Information Type:

PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING

Data Used to Assess Water Quality:

Data Reference:

Final Data File used for assessment: CCoWS (Central Coast Watershed Studies) Water Quality Data

SWAMP Data:

Non-SWAMP

Water Quality Objective/Criterion:

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 Esperanza Creek was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Between Hwy 101 & Railway, South of Esperanza Rd]

Temporal Representation:

Data was collected over the time period 8/22/2001-9/27/2001.

Environmental Conditions:

Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might effect interpretation of the data.

QAPP Information:

QAPP Information Reference(s):


DECISION ID	80361	Region 3
Chualar Creek, South Branch

Pollutant:	Ammonia
Final Listing Decision:	List on 303(d) list (being addressed by USEPA approved TMDL)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision:	List on 303(d) list (being addressed by USEPA approved TMDL)(2016)
Revision Status	Original
Sources:	Agriculture \| Domestic Animals/Livestock \| Natural Sources
TMDL Name:	Salinas River Nutrients
TMDL Project Code:	87
Date TMDL Approved by USEPA:	10/13/2015
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. Three lines of evidence (LOEs) are available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. Two LOEs summarize unionized ammonia data in which 3 of the 8 samples exceed the Basin Plan general objective for unionized ammonia set to protect aquatic life. One LOE summarizes total ammonia data and zero of the 21 samples exceed the EPA's Lifetime Health advisory level for total ammonia in drinking water. There is sufficient justification to place it in the Being Addressed portion of the CWA 303(d) List because a TMDL has been completed and approved by RWQCB and USEPA, and is expected to result in attainment of the standard. 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. Three of the 8 samples exceed the Basin Plan general objective for unionized ammonia and this exceeds the allowable frequency listed in Table 3.1 of the Listing Policy. 4. The Lower Salinas River Watershed Nutrient TMDL has been approved by the USEPA on October 13, 2015. 5. 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. There is sufficient justification to place it in the Being Addressed portion of the CWA 303(d) List because a TMDL has been completed and approved by RWQCB and USEPA, and is expected to result in attainment of the standard.

State Board Review of Regional Board Conclusion and Recommendation:

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

Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 80361, Ammonia	Region 3
Chualar Creek, South Branch

LOE ID:

48444

Pollutant:

Ammonia as Nitrogen

LOE Subgroup:

Pollutant-Water

Matrix:

Water

Fraction:

None

Beneficial Use:

Municipal & Domestic Supply

Number of Samples:

Number of Exceedances:

Data and Information Type:

PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING

Data Used to Assess Water Quality:

Data Reference:

Data from Region 3 Conditional Waiver Cooperative Monitoring Program, Jan. 2007-Jun. 2010

SWAMP Data:

Non-SWAMP

Water Quality Objective/Criterion:

All waters shall be maintained free of toxic substances in concentrations which are toxic to, or which produce detrimental physiological responses in, human, plant, animal, or aquatic life. (Basin Plan).

Objective/Criterion Reference:

Water Quality Control Plan for the Central Coastal Basin

Evaluation Guideline:

EPA's Lifetime Health advisory level for total ammonia is 30.0 mg/L as stated on page 8 of the 2006 edition of the drinking water standards and health advisories. This Advisory Level is defined as "the concentration of a chemical in drinking water that is not expected to cause any adverse noncarcinogenic effects for up to ten days of exposure."

Guideline Reference:

2006 edition of the drinking water standards and health advisories. EPA 822-R-03-013

Spatial Representation:

Data for this line of evidence for Esperanza Creek was collected at 2 monitoring sites [ 309SBC - Chualar Creek South branch at Highway 101, 309SOS - Chualar Creek South Branch at Old Stage]

Temporal Representation:

Data was collected over the time period 1/25/2008-11/19/2008.

Environmental Conditions:

Central Coast Water Board Staff are not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.

QAPP Information:

QAPP Information Reference(s):

Quality Assurance Project Plan for Monitoring for the Region 3 Conditional Ag Waiver Cooperative Monitoring Program, Revision 6

Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 80361, Ammonia	Region 3
Chualar Creek, South Branch

LOE ID:

48445

Pollutant:

Ammonia (Unionized)

LOE Subgroup:

Pollutant-Water

Matrix:

Water

Fraction:

None

Beneficial Use:

Cold Freshwater Habitat

Number of Samples:

Number of Exceedances:

Data and Information Type:

PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING

Data Used to Assess Water Quality:

Central Coast Water Board Staff assessed public submissions data for Esperanza Creek to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 3 of 8 samples exceed the criterion for Ammonia as N, Unionized.

Data Reference:

Data from Region 3 Conditional Waiver Cooperative Monitoring Program, Jan. 2007-Jun. 2010

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:

Water Quality Control Plan for the Central Coastal Basin

Evaluation Guideline:

Guideline Reference:

Spatial Representation:

Data for this line of evidence for Esperanza Creek was collected at 2 monitoring sites [ 309SBC - Chualar Creek South branch at Highway 101, 309SOS - Chualar Creek South Branch at Old Stage]

Temporal Representation:

Data was collected over the time period 8/26/2008-11/19/2008.

Environmental Conditions:

Central Coast Water Board Staff are not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.

QAPP Information:

QAPP Information Reference(s):

Quality Assurance Project Plan for Monitoring for the Region 3 Conditional Ag Waiver Cooperative Monitoring Program, Revision 6

Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 80361, Ammonia	Region 3
Chualar Creek, South Branch

LOE ID:

48446

Pollutant:

Ammonia (Unionized)

LOE Subgroup:

Pollutant-Water

Matrix:

Water

Fraction:

None

Beneficial Use:

Warm Freshwater Habitat

Number of Samples:

Number of Exceedances:

Data and Information Type:

PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING

Data Used to Assess Water Quality:

Data Reference:

Data from Region 3 Conditional Waiver Cooperative Monitoring Program, Jan. 2007-Jun. 2010

SWAMP Data:

Non-SWAMP

Water Quality Objective/Criterion:

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 Esperanza Creek was collected at 2 monitoring sites [ 309SBC - Chualar Creek South branch at Highway 101, 309SOS - Chualar Creek South Branch at Old Stage]

Temporal Representation:

Data was collected over the time period 8/26/2008-11/19/2008.

Environmental Conditions:

Central Coast Water Board Staff are not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.

QAPP Information:

QAPP Information Reference(s):

Quality Assurance Project Plan for Monitoring for the Region 3 Conditional Ag Waiver Cooperative Monitoring Program, Revision 6