Draft California 2020 Integrated Report (303(d) List/305(b) Report)

Supporting Information

Regional Board 9 - San Diego Region

Water Body Name: Tijuana River
Water Body ID: CAR9111100019990208133940
Water Body Type: River & Stream
 
DECISION ID
112157
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
Pollutant: Cadmium
Final Listing Decision: Do Not Delist from 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)(2018)
Revision Status Revised
Sources: A Source Unknown
Expected TMDL Completion Date: 2025
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 4.1 of the Listing Policy. Under this section a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status.

Two lines of evidence are available in the administrative record to assess pollutant. Three of the 29 samples exceed the threshold.

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. Three of 29 samples exceeded the threshold and this exceeds the allowable frequency listed in Table 4.1 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 112157, Cadmium
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 78145
 
Pollutant: Cadmium
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 19
Number of Exceedances: 3
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed County of San Diego data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 3 of 19 samples exceed the criterion for Cadmium.
Data Reference: Data for Various Pollutants from the County of San Diego Department of Public Works Watershed Protection Program, 2001-2008.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The dissolved cadmium criterion continuous concentration (expressed as a 4-day average) to protect aquatic life in freshwater for dissolved cadmium is 0.0022 mg/L (California Toxics Rule, 2000).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Code of Federal Regulations 40 part 131.38 Establishment of numeric criteria for priority toxic pollutants for the State of California. 7/1/2011 Edition
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Tijuana River was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Tijuana River - 911TJR-MLS]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 1/29/2002-12/16/2008.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: The Quality Assurance Project Plan from Weston, the Regional Monitoring Workgroup Urban Runoff Monitoring Final Report Methods Sections and Statements of Work, and Weston Solutions Inc. Desk Reference for Quality Control Of Work Products were followed.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Weston, The Regional Monitoring Workgroup Urban Runoff Monitoring Final Report Methods Sections and Statements of Work, and Weston Solutions Inc. Desk Reference for Quality Control Of Work Products.
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 112157, Cadmium
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 140519
 
Pollutant: Cadmium
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 10
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed San Diego Region NPDES data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 10 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for Cadmium.
Data Reference: Field, Habitat, Sediment, Toxicity, Water data for the 2020/2022 integrated report in Region 9.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: California Toxics Rule (CTR) lists criterion continuous concentrations to protect aquatic life in freshwater. The criterion in freshwater is hardness dependent for each sample and varies based on the ambient hardness during sampling. Section (b)(1) in CTR contains the hardness dependent formula for the metals criterion.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Standards 2000. Establishment of numeric criteria for priority toxic pollutants for the State of California: Rules and regulations. Federal Register Vol. 65, No. 97. Washington, D.C.: Environmental Protection Agency
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site (TJR-MLS)
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2011-10-06 and 2014-05-08
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: County of San Diego - Dept of Public Works. 2008. Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight. ., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2014. Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program., Wood. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 112157, Cadmium
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 76840
 
Pollutant: Cadmium
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Sediment
Matrix: Sediment
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Preservation of Rare & Endangered Species
 
Number of Samples: 1
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed SWAMP data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 1 samples exceed the criterion for Cadmium.
Data Reference: Statewide Stream Pollution Trends Study 2008
 
SWAMP Data: SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin (SDRWQCB 2007): 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.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: In freshwater sediments the probable effect concentration (predictive of sediment toxicity) for cadmium is 4.98 mg/Kg dry weight (MacDonald et al. 2000).
Guideline Reference: Development and evaluation of consensus-based sediment quality guidelines for freshwater ecosystems. Environmental Contamination and Toxicology. 39: 20-31
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Tijuana River was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Tijuana River at Hollister Rd - 911TJHRxx]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected on a single day 5/22/2008.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: SWAMP data collected before September 2008 followed the 2002 QAMP.
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
126834
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
Pollutant: Chlorpyrifos
Final Listing Decision: Do Not Delist from 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)(2018)
Revision Status Revised
Sources: A Source Unknown
Expected TMDL Completion Date: 2025
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 4.1 of the Listing Policy. Under this section a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status.

Three lines of evidence are available in the administrative record to assess pollutant. Eight of the 25 samples exceed the water quality threshold. Zero of one sediment sample exceeds the water quality threshold for sediment; this sample size is not sufficient to determine beneficial use support with the statistical power and confidence of the Listing Policy.

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. Eight of 25 samples exceeded the water quality threshold, and this exceeds the allowable frequency listed in Table 4.1 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 126834, Chlorpyrifos
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 219728
 
Pollutant: Chlorpyrifos
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 10
Number of Exceedances: 3
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed San Diego Region NPDES data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 3 of 10 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for Chlorpyrifos.
Data Reference: Field, Habitat, Sediment, Toxicity, Water data for the 2020/2022 integrated report in Region 9.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: No individual pesticide or combination of pesticides shall be present in concentrations that adversely affect beneficial uses.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: The freshwater criterion continuous concentration to protect aquatic organisms is 0.015 ug/L (4 day average)(Siepmann and Finlayson 2000).
Guideline Reference: Water quality criteria for diazinon and chlorpyrifos. Administrative Report 00-3. Rancho Cordova, CA: Pesticide Investigations Unit, Office of Spills and Response. CA Department of Fish and Game (with minor corrections to significant figures as described in Beaulaurier et al., 2005).
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site (TJR-MLS)
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2011-10-06 and 2014-05-08
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: County of San Diego - Dept of Public Works. 2008. Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight. ., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2014. Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program., Wood. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 126834, Chlorpyrifos
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 76847
 
Pollutant: Chlorpyrifos
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Sediment
Matrix: Sediment
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Preservation of Rare & Endangered Species
 
Number of Samples: 1
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed SWAMP data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 1 samples exceed the criterion for Chlorpyrifos.
Data Reference: Statewide Stream Pollution Trends Study 2008
 
SWAMP Data: SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin (SDRWQCB 2007): 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.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: The evaluation guideline for chlorpyrifos is the median lethal concentration (LC50) of 1.77 ug/g and is normalized by the percentage of organic carbon in the sediment sample (Amweg and Weston, 2007).
Guideline Reference: Whole-sediment toxicity identification evaluation tools for pyrethroid insecticides: I. piperonyl butoxide addition. Environ. Toxicol. Chem. 26:2389-2396.
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Tijuana River was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Tijuana River at Hollister Rd - 911TJHRxx]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected on a single day 5/22/2008.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: SWAMP data collected before September 2008 followed the QAMP 2002.
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 126834, Chlorpyrifos
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 77920
 
Pollutant: Chlorpyrifos
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 15
Number of Exceedances: 5
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed County of San Diego data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 5 of 15 samples exceed the criterion for Chlorpyrifos. Four sample results were not used in the assessment because the laboratory data reporting limit(s) was above the objective and therefore the results could not be quantified with the level of certainty required by the Listing Policy.
Data Reference: Data for Various Pollutants from the County of San Diego Department of Public Works Watershed Protection Program, 2001-2008.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: No individual pesticide or combination of pesticides shall be present in the water column, sediments or biota at concentration(s) that adversely affect beneficial uses. Pesticides shall not be present at levels which will bioaccumulate in aquatic organisms to levels which are harmful to human health, wildlife or aquatic organisms (Water Quality Control Plan, San Diego Basin).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: The freshwater criterion continuous concentration to protect aquatic organisms is 0.015 ug/L (Siepmann and Finlayson 2000).
Guideline Reference: Water quality criteria for diazinon and chlorpyrifos. Administrative Report 00-3. Rancho Cordova, CA: Pesticide Investigations Unit, Office of Spills and Response. CA Department of Fish and Game (with minor corrections to significant figures as described in Beaulaurier et al., 2005).
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Tijuana River was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Tijuana River - 911TJR-MLS]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 1/29/2002-12/16/2008.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: The Quality Assurance Project Plan from Weston, the Regional Monitoring Workgroup Urban Runoff Monitoring Final Report Methods Sections and Statements of Work, and Weston Solutions Inc. Desk Reference for Quality Control Of Work Products were followed.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Weston, The Regional Monitoring Workgroup Urban Runoff Monitoring Final Report Methods Sections and Statements of Work, and Weston Solutions Inc. Desk Reference for Quality Control Of Work Products.
 
 
DECISION ID
112160
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
Pollutant: Diazinon
Final Listing Decision: Do Not Delist from 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)(2018)
Revision Status Revised
Sources: A Source Unknown
Expected TMDL Completion Date: 2025
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 4.1 of the Listing Policy. Under this section a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status.

Three lines of evidence are available in the administrative record to assess pollutant. Eleven of the 18 samples collected after January 2005 exceed the water quality threshold in water. [Zero of one sample exceeded the water quality threshold in sediment, but this sample size is insufficient to determine beneficial use support with the statistical power and confidence of the Listing Policy.]

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. Eleven of 18 samples collected after January 2005 exceeded the water quality threshold, and this exceeds the allowable frequency listed in Table 4.1 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 112160, Diazinon
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 76789
 
Pollutant: Diazinon
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 19
Number of Exceedances: 18
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed County of San Diego data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 18 of 19 samples exceed the criterion for Diazinon.
Data Reference: Data for Various Pollutants from the County of San Diego Department of Public Works Watershed Protection Program, 2001-2008.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: No individual pesticide or combination of pesticides shall be present in the water column, sediments or biota at concentration(s) that adversely affect beneficial uses. Pesticides shall not be present at levels which will bioaccumulate in aquatic organisms to levels which are harmful to human health, wildlife or aquatic organisms (Water Quality Control Plan, San Diego Basin).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: The freshwater chronic value for diazinon is 0.1 ug/L, expressed as a continuous concentration (Finlayson, 2004).
Guideline Reference: Water quality for diazinon. Memorandum to J. Karkoski, Central Valley RWQCB. Rancho Cordova, CA: Pesticide Investigation Unit, CA Department of Fish and Game
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Tijuana River was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Tijuana River - 911TJR-MLS]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 1/29/2002-12/16/2008.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: The Quality Assurance Project Plan from Weston, the Regional Monitoring Workgroup Urban Runoff Monitoring Final Report Methods Sections and Statements of Work, and Weston Solutions Inc. Desk Reference for Quality Control Of Work Products were followed.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Weston, The Regional Monitoring Workgroup Urban Runoff Monitoring Final Report Methods Sections and Statements of Work, and Weston Solutions Inc. Desk Reference for Quality Control Of Work Products.
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 112160, Diazinon
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 142304
 
Pollutant: Diazinon
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 9
Number of Exceedances: 2
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed San Diego Region NPDES data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 2 of 9 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for Diazinon.
Data Reference: Field, Habitat, Sediment, Toxicity, Water data for the 2020/2022 integrated report in Region 9.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: No individual pesticide or combination of pesticides shall be present in concentrations that adversely affect beneficial uses.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: The freshwater chronic value for diazinon is 0.1 ug/L, expressed as a continuous concentration (Finlayson, 2004).
Guideline Reference: Water quality for diazinon. Memorandum to J. Karkoski, Central Valley RWQCB. Rancho Cordova, CA: Pesticide Investigation Unit, CA Department of Fish and Game
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site (TJR-MLS)
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2011-10-06 and 2014-05-08
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: County of San Diego - Dept of Public Works. 2008. Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight. ., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2014. Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program., Wood. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 112160, Diazinon
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 77915
 
Pollutant: Diazinon
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Sediment
Matrix: Sediment
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Preservation of Rare & Endangered Species
 
Number of Samples: 1
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed SWAMP data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 1 samples exceed the criterion for Diazinon.
Data Reference: Statewide Stream Pollution Trends Study 2008
 
SWAMP Data: SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin (SDRWQCB 2007): 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.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: The evaluation guideline for diazinon is the median lethal concentration (LC50) of 11 ug/g and is normalized by the percentage of organic carbon in the sediment sample. The LC50 11 ug/g is the geometric mean of LC50 values for diazinon from Ding et al. (2011).
Guideline Reference: Toxicity of Sediment-Associated Pesticides to Chironomus dilutus and Hyalella azteca. Arch. Environ. Contam. Toxicol. 61:83¿92.
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Tijuana River was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Tijuana River at Hollister Rd - 911TJHRxx]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected on a single day 5/22/2008.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: SWAMP data collected before September 2008 followed the QAMP 2002.
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
128040
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
Pollutant: Indicator Bacteria
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)(2018)
Revision Status Revised
Sources: A Source Unknown
Expected TMDL Completion Date: 2010
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: This pollutant is being considered for removal from the section 303(d) list under section 4.3 of the Listing Policy. Under section 4.3 a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status.

Three lines of evidence are available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. Thirty-five of the 45 samples exceed the STV threshold for E. coli.

Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is sufficient justification against removing this water segment-pollutant combination from the section 303(d) list 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. Thirty-five of 45 samples exceeded the E. coli water quality threshold for the protection of REC-1, 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 not met.

The State Water Board’s Water Quality Control Plan for Inland Surface Waters, Enclosed Bays, and Estuaries of California (the “ISWEBE Plan”) contains two bacteria water quality objectives applicable to the REC-1 beneficial use, which were adopted on August 7, 2018. Because the salinity level of this waterbody is equal to or less than 1 part per thousand 95 percent or more of the time, the E. coli bacteria objective applies Therefore, this waterbody is being considered for placement on or removal from the CWA section 303(d) List under section 3.3 or 4.3 of the Listing Policy, as applicable, using the E. coli objective.

In accordance with section 6.1.5.3 of the Listing Policy, data should be representative of the critical timing that the pollutant is expected to impact the waterbody. Indicator bacteria (total coliform, fecal coliform, E. coli, enterococci) populations may fluctuate substantially on a daily, seasonal, or yearly basis. Lacking constant inputs, they do not persist in the environment for a long period and effects are of relatively short duration. As a result, the historic levels of indicator bacteria in the waterbody may be a poor indicator of current risks to human health, particularly when more recent data are available to sufficiently assess the water quality standard. Additionally, water quality conditions in waterbodies may change as a result of management actions that have been implemented to address bacteria. Unrepresentative data may result in incorrectly placing or not placing a water body segment on the list, which could result in the unnecessary expenditure of public resources or missing a human health problem. Historic lines of evidence for data collected prior to 2010 were evaluated pursuant to these considerations and were not used to assess water quality standards attainment because they do not meet the temporal representation requirements of section 6.1.5.3 of the Listing Policy.

For E. coli data, Listing Policy sections 3.3 and 4.3 instructs to use the binomial distribution table in sections 3.2 and 4.2, as applicable. To use the binomial table that uses a four percent exceedance frequency, the data must be collected from coastal beaches or inland surface waters from April 1 through October 31 only, and where collected from inland waters from April 1 through October 31 only, bacterial measurements must be indicative of human fecal matter, and there is substantial human contact in the waterbody.

No fecal coliform data are used in this assessment because the fecal coliform water quality objective was superseded and is no longer used as the basis of any 303(d) List decision for water contact recreation.
 
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: The State Water Board’s Water Quality Control Plan for Inland Surface Waters, Enclosed Bays, and Estuaries of California (the “ISWEBE Plan”) contains two bacteria water quality objectives applicable to the REC-1 beneficial use, which were adopted on August 7, 2018. Because the salinity level of this waterbody is equal to or less than 1 part per thousand 95 percent or more of the time, the E. coli bacteria objective applies Therefore, this waterbody is being considered for placement on or removal from the CWA section 303(d) List under section 3.3 or 4.3 of the Listing Policy, as applicable, using the E. coli objective.

In accordance with section 6.1.5.3 of the Listing Policy, data should be representative of the critical timing that the pollutant is expected to impact the waterbody. Indicator bacteria (total coliform, fecal coliform, E. coli, enterococci) populations may fluctuate substantially on a daily, seasonal, or yearly basis. Lacking constant inputs, they do not persist in the environment for a long period and effects are of relatively short duration. As a result, the historic levels of indicator bacteria in the waterbody may be a poor indicator of current risks to human health, particularly when more recent data are available to sufficiently assess the water quality standard. Additionally, water quality conditions in waterbodies may change as a result of management actions that have been implemented to address bacteria. Unrepresentative data may result in incorrectly placing or not placing a water body segment on the list, which could result in the unnecessary expenditure of public resources or missing a human health problem. Historic lines of evidence for data collected prior to 2010 were evaluated pursuant to these considerations and were not used to assess water quality standards attainment because they do not meet the temporal representation requirements of section 6.1.5.3 of the Listing Policy.

For E. coli data, Listing Policy sections 3.3 and 4.3 instructs to use the binomial distribution table in sections 3.2 and 4.2, as applicable. To use the binomial table that uses a four percent exceedance frequency, the data must be collected from coastal beaches or inland surface waters from April 1 through October 31 only, and where collected from inland waters from April 1 through October 31 only, bacterial measurements must be indicative of human fecal matter, and there is substantial human contact in the waterbody.

No fecal coliform data are used in this assessment because the fecal coliform water quality objective was superseded and is no longer used as the basis of any 303(d) List decision for water contact recreation.
 
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 128040, Indicator Bacteria
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 220727
 
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: 12
 
Data and Information Type: PATHOGEN MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and the results are as follows: 12 of the 15 samples exceeded the Statistical Threshold Value (STV) water quality threshold for E. coli. The STV is based on a 10% exceedance rate that is calculated monthly.
Data Reference: Water data for the 2020/2022 integrated report in Region 9.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The bacteria water quality objective applicable to all non-saline waters, is a Statistical Threshold Value (STV) of 320 cfu/100 mL. The applicable STV shall not be exceeded by more than 10 percent of the samples collected in a calendar month, calculated in a static manner (ISWEBE 2018).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Inland Surface Waters, Enclosed Bays, and Estuaries Plan. Part 1: Trash Provisions; Part 2: Tribal Subsistence Beneficial Uses and Mercury Provisions; Part 3: Bacteria Provisions and Variance Policy
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site(s), station(s): TJN-050
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the days of 2010-10-23 and 2015-05-16 .
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: San Diego Coastkeeper. 2010. San Diego Regional Water Quality Assessment and Outreach Project Quality Assurance Project Plan.
QAPP Information Reference(s): San Diego Regional Water Quality Assessment and Outreach Project Quality Assurance Project Plan
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 128040, Indicator Bacteria
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 220717
 
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: 11
 
Data and Information Type: PATHOGEN MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and the results are as follows: 11 of the 15 samples exceeded the Statistical Threshold Value (STV) water quality threshold for E. coli. The STV is based on a 10% exceedance rate that is calculated monthly.
Data Reference: Water data for the 2020/2022 integrated report in Region 9.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The bacteria water quality objective applicable to all non-saline waters, is a Statistical Threshold Value (STV) of 320 cfu/100 mL. The applicable STV shall not be exceeded by more than 10 percent of the samples collected in a calendar month, calculated in a static manner (ISWEBE 2018).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Inland Surface Waters, Enclosed Bays, and Estuaries Plan. Part 1: Trash Provisions; Part 2: Tribal Subsistence Beneficial Uses and Mercury Provisions; Part 3: Bacteria Provisions and Variance Policy
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site(s), station(s): TJN-040
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the days of 2010-10-23 and 2015-02-21 .
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: San Diego Coastkeeper. 2010. San Diego Regional Water Quality Assessment and Outreach Project Quality Assurance Project Plan.
QAPP Information Reference(s): San Diego Regional Water Quality Assessment and Outreach Project Quality Assurance Project Plan
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 128040, Indicator Bacteria
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 220712
 
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: 12
 
Data and Information Type: PATHOGEN MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and the results are as follows: 12 of the 15 samples exceeded the Statistical Threshold Value (STV) water quality threshold for E. coli. The STV is based on a 10% exceedance rate that is calculated monthly.
Data Reference: Water data for the 2020/2022 integrated report in Region 9.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The bacteria water quality objective applicable to all non-saline waters, is a Statistical Threshold Value (STV) of 320 cfu/100 mL. The applicable STV shall not be exceeded by more than 10 percent of the samples collected in a calendar month, calculated in a static manner (ISWEBE 2018).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Inland Surface Waters, Enclosed Bays, and Estuaries Plan. Part 1: Trash Provisions; Part 2: Tribal Subsistence Beneficial Uses and Mercury Provisions; Part 3: Bacteria Provisions and Variance Policy
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site(s), station(s): TJN-060
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the days of 2010-10-23 and 2015-05-16 .
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: San Diego Coastkeeper. 2010. San Diego Regional Water Quality Assessment and Outreach Project Quality Assurance Project Plan.
QAPP Information Reference(s): San Diego Regional Water Quality Assessment and Outreach Project Quality Assurance Project Plan
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 128040, Indicator Bacteria
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 76807
 
Pollutant: Total Coliform
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Water Contact Recreation
 
Number of Samples: 137
Number of Exceedances: 137
 
Data and Information Type: Not Specified
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: One hundred and thirty-seven of the 137 samples exceeded the total coliform geomean objective.
Data Reference: Data for bacteria and temperature in Alamo River, New River (Imperial County), and Tijuana River, Jan 2006-Mar. 2010
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: All waters shall be maintained free of toxic substances in concentrations that are toxic to, or that produce detrimental physiological responses in human, plant, animal, or aquatic life.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: Geometric Mean: The total coliform concentration shall not exceed more than 1000/100 ml. California Department of Public Health
Guideline Reference: Draft Guidance for Fresh Water Beaches. Last Update: May 8, 2006. Initial Draft: November 1997. California Department of Public Health.
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at Hollister Bridge and Dairy Mart Bridge.
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between January 2007 to February 2009. CAR9111100019990208133940
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Laboratory QA document is provided. The samples were analyzed under the City of San Diego EMTS Division Laboratory Quality Assurance Report.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 128040, Indicator Bacteria
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 76808
 
Pollutant: Total Coliform
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Water Contact Recreation
 
Number of Samples: 155
Number of Exceedances: 151
 
Data and Information Type: Not Specified
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: One hundered and fifty-one (151) of the one hundered and fifty-five (155) samples exceeded the Total Coliform objective.
Data Reference: Data for bacteria and temperature in Alamo River, New River (Imperial County), and Tijuana River, Jan 2006-Mar. 2010
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Total Coliform concentration shall not exceed more than 10000/100 ml. Basin Plan for the San Diego Region.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at Hollister Bridge and Dairy Mart Bridge.
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between January 2007 to February 2009. CAR9111100019990208133940
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Laboratory QA document is provided. The samples were analyzed under the City of San Diego EMTS Division Laboratory Quality Assurance Report.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 128040, Indicator Bacteria
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 4741
 
Pollutant: Indicator Bacteria
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Not Recorded
 
Beneficial Use: Water Contact Recreation
 
Number of Samples: 0
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PATHOGEN MONITORING
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):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 128040, Indicator Bacteria
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 76792
 
Pollutant: Escherichia coli (E. coli)
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Water Contact Recreation
 
Number of Samples: 155
Number of Exceedances: 106
 
Data and Information Type: Not Specified
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: One hundred and six of the one hundred fifty-five (155) samples exceeded the E. Coli objective.
Data Reference: Data for bacteria and temperature in Alamo River, New River (Imperial County), and Tijuana River, Jan 2006-Mar. 2010
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The E. Coli concentration shall not exceed more than 235/100 ml. Basin Plan for the San Diego Region.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at Dairy Mart Bridge and Hollister Bridge.
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between January 2007 to February 2009. CAR9111100019990208133940
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Laboratory QA document is provided. The samples were analyzed under the City of San Diego EMTS Division Laboratory Quality Assurance Report.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 128040, Indicator Bacteria
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 76793
 
Pollutant: Escherichia coli (E. coli)
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Water Contact Recreation
 
Number of Samples: 137
Number of Exceedances: 112
 
Data and Information Type: Not Specified
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: One hundred twelve of the 137 samples exceeded the E. Coli geomean objective.
Data Reference: Data for bacteria and temperature in Alamo River, New River (Imperial County), and Tijuana River, Jan 2006-Mar. 2010
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Geometric Mean: The E. Coli concentration shall not exceed more than 126/100 ml. Basin Plan for the San Diego Region.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at Dairy Mart Bridge and Hollister Bridge.
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between January 2007 to February 2009. CAR9111100019990208133940
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Laboratory QA document is provided. The samples were analyzed under the City of San Diego EMTS Division Laboratory Quality Assurance Report.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
 
DECISION ID
112168
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
Pollutant: Phosphorus
Final Listing Decision: Do Not Delist from 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)(2018)
Revision Status Revised
Sources: A Source Unknown
Expected TMDL Completion Date: 2021
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 4.1 of the Listing Policy. Under this section a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status.

Six lines of evidence are available in the administrative record to assess pollutant. Seventy-three of the 75 samples exceed the threshold.

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. Seventy-three of the 75 samples exceed the threshold, and this exceeds the allowable frequency listed in Table 4.1 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 112168, Phosphorus
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 7381
 
Pollutant: Phosphorus
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 15
Number of Exceedances: 15
 
Data and Information Type: Fixed station physical/chemical monitoring (conventional pollutants only)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: All fifteen samples collected exceed the water quality objective according to results in the San Diego County Municipal Copermittees Annual Progress Report, 2007. Samples were collected two to four times a year from 2001-2006.
Data Reference: Urban Runoff Monitoring, Volume 1- Final Report To request a file review please contact the San Diego Regional Board receptionist. They may be reached by phone at (619) 516-1990, by email at rb9_records@waterboards.ca.gov, by fax at (619) 516-1994, or mail your request to: California Regional Water Quality Control Board Attention: File Review Request 2375 Northside Drive, Suite 100 San Diego, CA 92108 The ECM document handle is #2733059
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water bodies shall not contain biostimulatory substances in concentrations that promote aquatic growth to the extent that such growths cause nuisance or adversely affect beneficial uses. (RWQCB, 2007)
Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin Goal of 0.1 mg/L for total phosphorus in streams and other flowing waters. (RWQCB, 2007)
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Spatial Representation: Samples were collected at the mass loading station located near the lower boundary of the watershed under the Hollister Street Bridge in San Diego, downstream from the International Boundary and Water Commission¿s diversion structure and treatment plant.
Temporal Representation: Samples were collected two to four times a year from 2001-2006.
Environmental Conditions: Samples were collected during wet weather.
QAPP Information: QA/QC conducted according to Weston Solutions QA Plan.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Weston Solutions, 2004. Quality Management Manual. March 2004 (Revised December 2009).
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 112168, Phosphorus
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 146014
 
Pollutant: Phosphorus
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 17
Number of Exceedances: 17
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed San Diego Coastkeeper Ambient Monitoring Program data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 17 of 17 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for Phosphorus as P.
Data Reference: Water data for the 2020/2022 integrated report in Region 9.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Concentrations of nitrogen and phosphorus, by themselves or in combination with other nutrients, shall be maintained at levels below those which stimulate algae and emergent plant growth. A desired goal in order to prevent plant nuisance in streams and other flowing waters appears to be 0.1 mg/L total P. Analogous threshold values have not been set for nitrogen compounds; however, natural ratios of nitrogen to phosphorus are to be determined by surveillance and monitoring and upheld. If data are lacking, a ratio of N:P = 10:1, on a weight to weight basis shall be used (Water Quality Control Plan, San Diego Basin).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site (TJN-050)
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2010-10-23 and 2015-05-16
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: San Diego Coastkeeper. 2010. San Diego Regional Water Quality Assessment and Outreach Project Quality Assurance Project Plan.
QAPP Information Reference(s): San Diego Regional Water Quality Assessment and Outreach Project Quality Assurance Project Plan
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 112168, Phosphorus
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 146069
 
Pollutant: Phosphorus
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 16
Number of Exceedances: 14
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed San Diego Coastkeeper Ambient Monitoring Program data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 14 of 16 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for Phosphorus as P.
Data Reference: Water data for the 2020/2022 integrated report in Region 9.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Concentrations of nitrogen and phosphorus, by themselves or in combination with other nutrients, shall be maintained at levels below those which stimulate algae and emergent plant growth. A desired goal in order to prevent plant nuisance in streams and other flowing waters appears to be 0.1 mg/L total P. Analogous threshold values have not been set for nitrogen compounds; however, natural ratios of nitrogen to phosphorus are to be determined by surveillance and monitoring and upheld. If data are lacking, a ratio of N:P = 10:1, on a weight to weight basis shall be used (Water Quality Control Plan, San Diego Basin).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site (TJN-060)
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2010-10-23 and 2015-05-16
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: San Diego Coastkeeper. 2010. San Diego Regional Water Quality Assessment and Outreach Project Quality Assurance Project Plan.
QAPP Information Reference(s): San Diego Regional Water Quality Assessment and Outreach Project Quality Assurance Project Plan
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 112168, Phosphorus
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 146066
 
Pollutant: Phosphorus
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 10
Number of Exceedances: 10
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed San Diego Region NPDES data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 10 of 10 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for Phosphorus as P.
Data Reference: Field, Habitat, Sediment, Toxicity, Water data for the 2020/2022 integrated report in Region 9.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Concentrations of nitrogen and phosphorus, by themselves or in combination with other nutrients, shall be maintained at levels below those which stimulate algae and emergent plant growth. A desired goal in order to prevent plant nuisance in streams and other flowing waters appears to be 0.1 mg/L total P. Analogous threshold values have not been set for nitrogen compounds; however, natural ratios of nitrogen to phosphorus are to be determined by surveillance and monitoring and upheld. If data are lacking, a ratio of N:P = 10:1, on a weight to weight basis shall be used (Water Quality Control Plan, San Diego Basin).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site (TJR-MLS)
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2011-10-06 and 2014-05-08
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: County of San Diego - Dept of Public Works. 2008. Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight. ., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2014. Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program., Wood. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 112168, Phosphorus
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 7382
 
Pollutant: Phosphorus
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 2
Number of Exceedances: 2
 
Data and Information Type: Fixed station physical/chemical monitoring (conventional pollutants only)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Two of two samples exceed the water quality objective according to results in the Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program Report, 2007. The Tijuana River 5 monitoring station was sampled on May 31, 2005 and April 10, 2006.
Data Reference: Monitoring data for Region 9
 
SWAMP Data: SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water bodies shall not contain biostimulatory substances in concentrations that promote aquatic growth to the extent that such growths cause nuisance or adversely affect beneficial uses. (RWQCB, 2007)
Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin Goal of 0.1 mg/L for total phosphorus in streams and other flowing waters. (RWQCB, 2007)
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Spatial Representation: Samples were collected from the monitoring station Tijuana River 5 (station id: 911TTJR05 lat/long: 32.55132/-117.08439), located on the main stem of the Tijuana River.
Temporal Representation: The Tijuana River 5 monitoring station was sampled on May 31, 2005 and April 10, 2006.
Environmental Conditions: The sampling event in April occurred during high base flow. The May sampling event occurred during declining base flow.
QAPP Information: Quality control for the chemical analysis portion of this study was conducted in accordance with the California's Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program.
QAPP Information Reference(s): 2002. Quality Assurance Management Plan for the State of California's Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program. California Department of Fish and Game, Monterey, CA
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 112168, Phosphorus
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 146012
 
Pollutant: Phosphorus
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 15
Number of Exceedances: 15
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed San Diego Coastkeeper Ambient Monitoring Program data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 15 of 15 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for Phosphorus as P.
Data Reference: Water data for the 2020/2022 integrated report in Region 9.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Concentrations of nitrogen and phosphorus, by themselves or in combination with other nutrients, shall be maintained at levels below those which stimulate algae and emergent plant growth. A desired goal in order to prevent plant nuisance in streams and other flowing waters appears to be 0.1 mg/L total P. Analogous threshold values have not been set for nitrogen compounds; however, natural ratios of nitrogen to phosphorus are to be determined by surveillance and monitoring and upheld. If data are lacking, a ratio of N:P = 10:1, on a weight to weight basis shall be used (Water Quality Control Plan, San Diego Basin).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site (TJN-040)
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2010-10-23 and 2015-02-21
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: San Diego Coastkeeper. 2010. San Diego Regional Water Quality Assessment and Outreach Project Quality Assurance Project Plan.
QAPP Information Reference(s): San Diego Regional Water Quality Assessment and Outreach Project Quality Assurance Project Plan
 
 
DECISION ID
112169
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
Pollutant: Selenium
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)(2018)
Revision Status Revised
Sources: A Source Unknown
Expected TMDL Completion Date: 2025
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 4.1 of the Listing Policy. Under this section a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status.

Three lines of evidence are available in the administrative record to assess pollutant. Three of the 31 samples exceed the water quality objective.

Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is sufficient justification against 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. Three of 31 samples exceeded the objective, and this exceeds the allowable frequency listed in Table 4.1 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 112169, Selenium
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 78140
 
Pollutant: Selenium
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 19
Number of Exceedances: 1
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed County of San Diego data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 1 of 19 samples exceed the criterion for Selenium.
Data Reference: Data for Various Pollutants from the County of San Diego Department of Public Works Watershed Protection Program, 2001-2008.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The selenium criterion continuous concentration (expressed as a 4-day average) to protect aquatic life in freshwater is 0.005 mg/L (California Toxics Rule, 2000).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Code of Federal Regulations 40 part 131.38 Establishment of numeric criteria for priority toxic pollutants for the State of California. 7/1/2011 Edition
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Tijuana River was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Tijuana River - 911TJR-MLS]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 1/29/2002-12/16/2008.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: The Quality Assurance Project Plan from Weston, the Regional Monitoring Workgroup Urban Runoff Monitoring Final Report Methods Sections and Statements of Work, and Weston Solutions Inc. Desk Reference for Quality Control Of Work Products were followed.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Weston, The Regional Monitoring Workgroup Urban Runoff Monitoring Final Report Methods Sections and Statements of Work, and Weston Solutions Inc. Desk Reference for Quality Control Of Work Products.
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 112169, Selenium
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 146625
 
Pollutant: Selenium
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 10
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed San Diego Region NPDES data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 10 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for Selenium.
Data Reference: Field, Habitat, Sediment, Toxicity, Water data for the 2020/2022 integrated report in Region 9.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The selenium criterion continuous concentration (expressed as a 4-day average) to protect aquatic life in freshwater is 0.005 mg/L (California Toxics Rule, 2000).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Standards 2000. Establishment of numeric criteria for priority toxic pollutants for the State of California: Rules and regulations. Federal Register Vol. 65, No. 97. Washington, D.C.: Environmental Protection Agency
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site (TJR-MLS)
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2011-10-06 and 2014-05-08
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: County of San Diego - Dept of Public Works. 2008. Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight. ., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2014. Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program., Wood. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 112169, Selenium
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 146626
 
Pollutant: Selenium
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 10
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed San Diego Region NPDES data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 10 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for Selenium.
Data Reference: Field, Habitat, Sediment, Toxicity, Water data for the 2020/2022 integrated report in Region 9.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The selenium criterion continuous concentration (expressed as a 4-day average) to protect aquatic life in freshwater is 0.005 mg/L (California Toxics Rule, 2000).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Standards 2000. Establishment of numeric criteria for priority toxic pollutants for the State of California: Rules and regulations. Federal Register Vol. 65, No. 97. Washington, D.C.: Environmental Protection Agency
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site (TJR-MLS)
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2011-10-06 and 2014-05-08
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: County of San Diego - Dept of Public Works. 2008. Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight. ., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2014. Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program., Wood. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 112169, Selenium
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 21201
 
Pollutant: Selenium
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 2
Number of Exceedances: 2
 
Data and Information Type: Fixed station physical/chemical (conventional plus toxic pollutants)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Two water samples were collected at Tijuana River station 911TTJR05 on May 2004, September 2004, February 2005, and April 2005.
Data Reference: Monitoring data for Region 9
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: CTR Freshwater Chronic (CCC) 5 ug/L. (U.S. EPA, 2000).
All waters shall be maintained free of toxic
substances in concentrations that are toxic to, or
that produce detrimental physiological responses
in human, plant, animal, or aquatic life (RWQCB, 2007).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Standards 2000. Establishment of numeric criteria for priority toxic pollutants for the State of California: Rules and regulations. Federal Register Vol. 65, No. 97. Washington, D.C.: Environmental Protection Agency
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Water samples were collected at Tijuana River station (911TTJR05).
Temporal Representation: Samples were collected on May 2004, September 2004, February 2005, and April 2005.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Quality control for the chemical analysis portion of this study was conducted in accordance with the California's Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program.
QAPP Information Reference(s): 2002. Quality Assurance Management Plan for the State of California's Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program. California Department of Fish and Game, Monterey, CA
 
 
DECISION ID
112171
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
Pollutant: Toxicity
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)(2018)
Revision Status Revised
Sources: A Source Unknown
Expected TMDL Completion Date: 2025
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 4.6 of the Listing Policy. Under section 4.6, at least one line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status.

Five lines of evidence are available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. Thirty-six of 40 samples exceed the water quality threshold in water, and three of three samples exhibited sediment toxicity.

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-six of 40 samples exceed the water quality threshold in water, and three of three samples exhibited sediment toxicity. This sample size is sufficient to determine beneficial use support, with the power and confidence of the Listing Policy.
4. Pursuant to section 4.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.
 
Regional Board Decision Recommendation: After review of the available data and information, RWQCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should 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 112171, Toxicity
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 7507
 
Pollutant: Toxicity
LOE Subgroup: Toxicity
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 15
Number of Exceedances: 15
 
Data and Information Type: Ambient toxicity testing (chronic)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Toxicity was observed in the following tests:
Hyalella azteca growth and survival test- Five of 15 samples collected were found to be toxic.
(Ceriodaphnia dubia test -15 of 15 samples were found to be toxic.)

Ceriodaphnia dubia; All 15 samples were toxic according to results in the San Diego County Municipal Copermittees Annual Progress Report, 2007.

Samples from the river were collected from January 2002 through February 2006.
Data Reference: Urban Runoff Monitoring, Volume 1- Final Report To request a file review please contact the San Diego Regional Board receptionist. They may be reached by phone at (619) 516-1990, by email at rb9_records@waterboards.ca.gov, by fax at (619) 516-1994, or mail your request to: California Regional Water Quality Control Board Attention: File Review Request 2375 Northside Drive, Suite 100 San Diego, CA 92108 The ECM document handle is #2733059
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: From the Basin Plan, all waters shall be free of toxic substances that are toxic to, or that produce detrimental physiological responses in human, plant, animal, or aquatic life.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: Samples were found to exhibit toxicity when the No Observed Effect Concentration (NOEC) or median lethal concentration (LC50) for any given species was estimated to be less than 100% of the test sample concentration.
Guideline Reference: Waste Discharge Requirements for Discharges of Urban Runoff From the Municipal Separate Storm Sewer Systems Draining the Watersheds of the County of San Diego, the Incorporated Cities of San Diego, the San Diego Unified Port District, and the San Diego County Regional Airport. Order No. R9-2007-0001
 
Spatial Representation: Samples were collected from the from the mass loading station on the Tijuana River and Hollister Street Bridge.
Temporal Representation: Samples from the river were collected from January 2002 through February 2006.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Quality control for the chemical analysis portion of this study was conducted in accordance Weston Solutions
QAPP Information Reference(s): Weston Solutions, 2004. Quality Management Manual. March 2004 (Revised December 2009).
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 112171, Toxicity
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 134615
 
Pollutant: Toxicity
LOE Subgroup: Toxicity
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 6
Number of Exceedances: 2
 
Data and Information Type: TOXICITY TESTING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: 2 of the 6 samples collected by San Diego Region NPDES for Tijuana River exhibited toxicity. A sample may have multiple toxicity test results, but will only be counted once. A sample is defined as being collected on the same day, at the same location with the same lab sample ID (if provided). The following organisms and parameters were utilized for the toxicity tests: Ceriodaphnia dubia, for Survival, Hyalella azteca, for Survival, Selenastrum capricornutum, for Total Cell Count, Selenastrum capricornutum, for Growth (Chlorophyll a), Strongylocentrotus purpuratus, for Normal Development, Pimephales promelas, for Survival, Ceriodaphnia dubia, for Young/female, Pimephales promelas, for Growth (wt/surv indiv)
Data Reference: Field, Habitat, Sediment, Toxicity, Water data for the 2020/2022 integrated report in Region 9.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: All waters shall be maintained free of toxic substances in concentrations that are toxic to, or that produce detrimental physiological responses in human, plant, animal, or aquatic life. Compliance with this objective will be determined by use of indicator organisms, analyses of species diversity, population density, growth anomalies, bioassays of appropriate duration, or other appropriate methods as specified by the Regional Board.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 station. Monitoring site: ( TJR-MLS )
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2011-10-06 and 2014-05-08.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: County of San Diego - Dept of Public Works. 2008. Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight. ., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2014. Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program., Wood. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 112171, Toxicity
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 76810
 
Pollutant: Toxicity
LOE Subgroup: Toxicity
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Preservation of Areas of Special Biological Significance
 
Number of Samples: 19
Number of Exceedances: 19
 
Data and Information Type: TOXICITY TESTING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Nineteen samples were collected to test for toxicity. Nineteen of the 19 samples exhibited statistically significant toxicity. The toxicity tests that exhibited significant toxicity included survival of Hyalella azteca and survival and reproduction of Ceriodaphnia dubia.
Data Reference: Data for Various Pollutants from the County of San Diego Copermittees Receiving Waters Monitoring and Reporting Program, 2001-2008.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: All waters shall be maintained free of toxic substances in concentrations that are toxic to, or that produce detrimental physiological responses in human, plant, animal, or aquatic life
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: Toxicity is defined as a statistically significant effect in the sample exposure compared to the control using EPA-recommended hypothesis testing. The t-test is used to determine if there is a statistically significant decrease in organism response in the sample as compared to the control.
Guideline Reference: Methods for Measuring the Acute Toxicity of Effluents and Receiving Waters to Freshwater and Marine Organisms, Fifth Edition. EPA-821-R-02-012
Guideline Reference: Short-term Methods for Estimating the Chronic Toxicity of Effluents and Receiving Waters to Freshwater Organisms. Fourth Edition. Office of Water, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Washington, D.C. EPA-821-R-02-013
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at station 911TJR-MLS Tijuana River.
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected from 2002 to 2008.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: The data was collected under the County of San Diego Co-Permittees Receiving Waters Urban Runoff Monitoring and Reporting Program (Order No. 2007-01). Data quality is good.
QAPP Information Reference(s): e-mail clarifying QAPP information
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 112171, Toxicity
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 25808
 
Pollutant: Toxicity
LOE Subgroup: Toxicity
Matrix: Sediment
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
Aquatic Life Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 2
Number of Exceedances: 2
 
Data and Information Type: Ambient toxicity testing (chronic)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: toxicity was observed in the Hyalella azteca survival and growth test-
Two samples were collected and both show significant toxicity levels according to results in the Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program Report, 2007. The Tijuana River was sampled on May 31, 2005 and April 10, 2006.
Data Reference: Urban Runoff Monitoring, Volume 1- Final Report To request a file review please contact the San Diego Regional Board receptionist. They may be reached by phone at (619) 516-1990, by email at rb9_records@waterboards.ca.gov, by fax at (619) 516-1994, or mail your request to: California Regional Water Quality Control Board Attention: File Review Request 2375 Northside Drive, Suite 100 San Diego, CA 92108 The ECM document handle is #2733059
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: From the Basin Plan, all waters shall be free of toxic substances that are toxic to, or that produce detrimental physiological responses in human, plant, animal, or aquatic life (RWQCB, 2007).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: According to SWAMP, waters are considered toxic when samples show significant toxicity levels (SWAMP code ¿SL¿) when compared to a negative control. Significant toxicity is determined when statistical tests result in an alpha of less than 5% and percent control values less than the evaluation threshold.
Guideline Reference: Monitoring data for Region 9
 
Spatial Representation: Samples were collected from the monitoring station Tijuana River 5 (station id: 911TTJR05 lat/long: 32.55132/-117.08439), located on the main stem of the Tijuana River.
Temporal Representation: The Tijuana River 5 monitoring station was sampled on May 31, 2005 and April 10, 2006.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Quality control for the chemical analysis portion of this study was conducted in accordance with the California's Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program.
QAPP Information Reference(s): 2002. Quality Assurance Management Plan for the State of California's Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program. California Department of Fish and Game, Monterey, CA
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 112171, Toxicity
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 72751
 
Pollutant: Toxicity
LOE Subgroup: Toxicity
Matrix: Sediment
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 1
Number of Exceedances: 1
 
Data and Information Type: TOXICITY TESTING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: One sample was collected to evaluate sediment toxicity. The sample exhibited significant toxicity. The toxicity test included survival of Hyalella azteca. One sample can have multiple toxicity test results but will be counted only once. One sample is defined as being collected on the same day at the same location with the same lab sample id (if provided).
Data Reference: Statewide Stream Pollution Trends Study 2008
 
SWAMP Data: SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: All waters shall be maintained free of toxic substances in concentrations that are toxic to, or that produce detrimental physiological responses in, human, plant, animal, or aquatic life. Region 9 Basin Plan.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: Toxicity is defined as a statistically significant effect in the sample exposure compared to the control using EPA-recommended hypothesis testing. For SWAMP data exceedances are counted with the significant effect code SL. SL is defined as the result being significant compared to the negative control based on a statistical test, less than stated the alpha level, AND less than the evaluation threshold.
Guideline Reference: Methods for Measuring the Toxicity and Bioaccumulation of Sediment-associated Contaminants with Freshwater Invertebrates, Second Edition. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Office of Research and Development, Duluth, MI , U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Office of Water, Washington, DC EPA-600/R-99/064
 
Spatial Representation: The sample was collected at station 911TJHRxx.
Temporal Representation: The sample was collected in May 2008.
Environmental Conditions:
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.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program Quality Assurance Program Plan
 
 
DECISION ID
112156
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
Pollutant: Arsenic
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)(2018)
Revision Status Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: This pollutant is being considered for placement on the CWA section 303(d) List under sections 3.1 and 3.6 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.6, at least two lines of evidence are necessary to assess listing status for pollutants sediment, and pollutant concentrations in sediment must be associated with sediment toxicity to justify adding that pollutant to the CWA section 303(d) List.

Four lines of evidence are available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. Zero of 29 samples exceed the water quality threshold in water, and zero of one sample exceeds the water quality threshold in sediment.

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 29 samples exceed the water quality threshold in water, zero of one sample exceeds the water quality threshold in sediment, and this sample size is sufficient to determine beneficial use support, with the power and confidence of the Listing Policy. There is not an associated sediment toxicity data as required by Section 3.6 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 112156, Arsenic
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 140383
 
Pollutant: Arsenic
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 10
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed San Diego Region NPDES data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 10 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for Arsenic.
Data Reference: Field, Habitat, Sediment, Toxicity, Water data for the 2020/2022 integrated report in Region 9.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The dissolved arsenic criterion continuous concentration (expressed as a 4-day average) to protect aquatic life in freshwater for dissolved arsenic is 0.150 mg/L (California Toxics Rule, 2000).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Standards 2000. Establishment of numeric criteria for priority toxic pollutants for the State of California: Rules and regulations. Federal Register Vol. 65, No. 97. Washington, D.C.: Environmental Protection Agency
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site (TJR-MLS)
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2011-10-06 and 2014-05-08
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: County of San Diego - Dept of Public Works. 2008. Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight. ., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2014. Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program., Wood. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 112156, Arsenic
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 139909
 
Pollutant: Arsenic
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 10
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed San Diego Region NPDES data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 10 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for Arsenic.
Data Reference: Field, Habitat, Sediment, Toxicity, Water data for the 2020/2022 integrated report in Region 9.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The dissolved arsenic criterion continuous concentration (expressed as a 4-day average) to protect aquatic life in freshwater for dissolved arsenic is 0.150 mg/L (California Toxics Rule, 2000).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Standards 2000. Establishment of numeric criteria for priority toxic pollutants for the State of California: Rules and regulations. Federal Register Vol. 65, No. 97. Washington, D.C.: Environmental Protection Agency
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site (TJR-MLS)
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2011-10-06 and 2014-05-08
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: County of San Diego - Dept of Public Works. 2008. Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight. ., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2014. Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program., Wood. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 112156, Arsenic
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 76834
 
Pollutant: Arsenic
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Sediment
Matrix: Sediment
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Preservation of Rare & Endangered Species
 
Number of Samples: 1
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed SWAMP data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 1 samples exceed the criterion for Arsenic.
Data Reference: Statewide Stream Pollution Trends Study 2008
 
SWAMP Data: SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin (SDRWQCB 2007): 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.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: In freshwater sediments the probable effect concentration (predictive of sediment toxicity) for arsenic is 33 mg/Kg dry weight (MacDonald et al. 2000).
Guideline Reference: Development and evaluation of consensus-based sediment quality guidelines for freshwater ecosystems. Environmental Contamination and Toxicology. 39: 20-31
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Tijuana River was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Tijuana River at Hollister Rd - 911TJHRxx]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected on a single day 5/22/2008.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: SWAMP data collected before September 2008 followed the 2002 QAMP.
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 112156, Arsenic
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 78143
 
Pollutant: Arsenic
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 19
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed County of San Diego data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 19 samples exceed the criterion for Arsenic.
Data Reference: Data for Various Pollutants from the County of San Diego Department of Public Works Watershed Protection Program, 2001-2008.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The dissolved arsenic criterion continuous concentration (expressed as a 4-day average) to protect aquatic life in freshwater for dissolved arsenic is 0.150 mg/L (California Toxics Rule, 2000).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Code of Federal Regulations 40 part 131.38 Establishment of numeric criteria for priority toxic pollutants for the State of California. 7/1/2011 Edition
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Tijuana River was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Tijuana River - 911TJR-MLS]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 1/29/2002-12/16/2008.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: The Quality Assurance Project Plan from Weston, the Regional Monitoring Workgroup Urban Runoff Monitoring Final Report Methods Sections and Statements of Work, and Weston Solutions Inc. Desk Reference for Quality Control Of Work Products were followed.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Weston, The Regional Monitoring Workgroup Urban Runoff Monitoring Final Report Methods Sections and Statements of Work, and Weston Solutions Inc. Desk Reference for Quality Control Of Work Products.
 
 
DECISION ID
112184
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
Pollutant: Chromium
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)(2018)
Revision Status Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: This pollutant is being considered for placement on the CWA section 303(d) List under sections 3.1 and 3.6 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.1 a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status. Under section 3.6 at least two lines of evidence are necessary to assess listing status for pollutants in sediment.

Three lines of evidence are available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. Zero of 27 samples (water) and zero of one sample (sediment) exceeded the water quality threshold.

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 27 samples (water) exceeded the water quality threshold, and this does not exceed the allowable frequency listed in Table 3.1 of the Listing Policy.
4. Pursuant to SECTION 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.
 
Regional Board Decision Recommendation: After review of the available data and information, RWQCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should not be placed on the section 303(d) list because applicable water quality standards are not being exceeded.
 
State Board Review of Regional Board Conclusion and Recommendation:
 
State Board Decision Recommendation: After review of this Regional Board decision, SWRCB staff recommend the decision be approved by the State Board.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 112184, Chromium
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 76848
 
Pollutant: Chromium
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Sediment
Matrix: Sediment
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Preservation of Rare & Endangered Species
 
Number of Samples: 1
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed SWAMP data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 1 samples exceed the criterion for Chromium.
Data Reference: Statewide Stream Pollution Trends Study 2008
 
SWAMP Data: SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin (SDRWQCB 2007): 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.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: In freshwater sediments the probable effect concentration (predictive of sediment toxicity) for chromium is 111 mg/Kg dry weight (MacDonald et al. 2000).
Guideline Reference: Development and evaluation of consensus-based sediment quality guidelines for freshwater ecosystems. Environmental Contamination and Toxicology. 39: 20-31
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Tijuana River was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Tijuana River at Hollister Rd - 911TJHRxx]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected on a single day 5/22/2008.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: SWAMP data collected before September 2008 followed the 2002 QAMP.
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 112184, Chromium
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 76849
 
Pollutant: Chromium
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 17
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: State Water Board staff assessed County of San Diego NDPES data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 17 samples exceed the criterion for Chromium.
Data Reference: Data for Various Pollutants from the County of San Diego Department of Public Works Watershed Protection Program, 2001-2008.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: California Toxics Rule (CTR) lists criterion continuous concentrations for dissolved chromium to protect aquatic life in freshwater. The dissolved Chromium criterion in freshwater is hardness dependent for each sample and varies based on the ambient hardness during sampling. Section (b)(1) in CTR contains the hardness dependent formula for the metals criterion.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Code of Federal Regulations 40 part 131.38 Establishment of numeric criteria for priority toxic pollutants for the State of California. 7/1/2011 Edition
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Tijuana River was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Tijuana River - 911TJR-MLS]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 1/29/2002-12/16/2008.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: The Quality Assurance Project Plan from Weston, the Regional Monitoring Workgroup Urban Runoff Monitoring Final Report Methods Sections and Statements of Work, and Weston Solutions Inc. Desk Reference for Quality Control Of Work Products was followed.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Weston, The Regional Monitoring Workgroup Urban Runoff Monitoring Final Report Methods Sections and Statements of Work, and Weston Solutions Inc. Desk Reference for Quality Control Of Work Products.
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 112184, Chromium
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 141793
 
Pollutant: Chromium
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 10
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed San Diego Region NPDES data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 10 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for Chromium.
Data Reference: Field, Habitat, Sediment, Toxicity, Water data for the 2020/2022 integrated report in Region 9.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: California Toxics Rule (CTR) lists criterion continuous concentrations to protect aquatic life in freshwater. The criterion in freshwater is hardness dependent for each sample and varies based on the ambient hardness during sampling. Section (b)(1) in CTR contains the hardness dependent formula for the metals criterion.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Standards 2000. Establishment of numeric criteria for priority toxic pollutants for the State of California: Rules and regulations. Federal Register Vol. 65, No. 97. Washington, D.C.: Environmental Protection Agency
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site (TJR-MLS)
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2011-10-06 and 2014-05-08
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: County of San Diego - Dept of Public Works. 2008. Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight. ., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2014. Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program., Wood. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load
 
 
DECISION ID
112158
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
Pollutant: Chromium, trivalent
Final Listing Decision: Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: New Decision
Revision Status Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: Insufficient information is available to determine beneficial use support for this waterbody-pollutant combination with the statistical power and confidence required by the Listing Policy. Beneficial use support will be reassessed in a future cycle, if more data are available.
 
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. The readily available data and information is insufficient to determine, with the power and confidence of the Listing Policy, the applicable beneficial use support rating.
 
State Board Review of Regional Board Conclusion and Recommendation:
 
State Board Decision Recommendation:
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 112158, Chromium, trivalent
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 141530
 
Pollutant: Chromium, trivalent
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Dissolved
 
Beneficial 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: Water Board staff assessed San Diego Region NPDES data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 3 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for Chromium III.
Data Reference: Field, Habitat, Sediment, Toxicity, Water data for the 2020/2022 integrated report in Region 9.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: California Toxics Rule (CTR) lists criterion continuous concentrations to protect aquatic life in freshwater. The criterion in freshwater is hardness dependent for each sample and varies based on the ambient hardness during sampling. Section (b)(1) in CTR contains the hardness dependent formula for the metals criterion.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Standards 2000. Establishment of numeric criteria for priority toxic pollutants for the State of California: Rules and regulations. Federal Register Vol. 65, No. 97. Washington, D.C.: Environmental Protection Agency
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site (TJR-MLS)
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2014-02-13 and 2014-05-08
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: County of San Diego - Dept of Public Works. 2008. Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight. ., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2014. Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program., Wood. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load
 
 
DECISION ID
112159
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
Pollutant: Copper
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)(2018)
Revision Status Revised
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 are available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. One of the 27 samples exceed the water quality threshold.

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. One of the 27 samples exceed the water quality threshold, and this does not exceed the allowable frequency listed in Table 3.1 of the Listing Policy.
4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.
 
Regional Board Decision Recommendation: After review of the available data and information, RWQCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should not be placed on the section 303(d) list because applicable water quality standards are not being exceeded.
 
State Board Review of Regional Board Conclusion and Recommendation:
 
State Board Decision Recommendation: After review of this Regional Board decision, SWRCB staff recommend the decision be approved by the State Board.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 112159, Copper
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 76851
 
Pollutant: Copper
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Sediment
Matrix: Sediment
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Preservation of Rare & Endangered Species
 
Number of Samples: 1
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed SWAMP data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 1 samples exceed the criterion for Copper.
Data Reference: Statewide Stream Pollution Trends Study 2008
 
SWAMP Data: SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin (SDRWQCB 2007): 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.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: In freshwater sediments the probable effect concentration (predictive of sediment toxicity) for copper is 149 mg/Kg dry weight (MacDonald et al. 2000).
Guideline Reference: Development and evaluation of consensus-based sediment quality guidelines for freshwater ecosystems. Environmental Contamination and Toxicology. 39: 20-31
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Tijuana River was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Tijuana River at Hollister Rd - 911TJHRxx]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected on a single day 5/22/2008.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: SWAMP data collected before September 2008 followed the 2002 QAMP.
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 112159, Copper
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 141789
 
Pollutant: Copper
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 10
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed San Diego Region NPDES data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 10 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for Copper.
Data Reference: Field, Habitat, Sediment, Toxicity, Water data for the 2020/2022 integrated report in Region 9.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: California Toxics Rule (CTR) lists criterion continuous concentrations to protect aquatic life in freshwater. The criterion in freshwater is hardness dependent for each sample and varies based on the ambient hardness during sampling. Section (b)(1) in CTR contains the hardness dependent formula for the metals criterion.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Standards 2000. Establishment of numeric criteria for priority toxic pollutants for the State of California: Rules and regulations. Federal Register Vol. 65, No. 97. Washington, D.C.: Environmental Protection Agency
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site (TJR-MLS)
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2011-10-06 and 2014-05-08
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: County of San Diego - Dept of Public Works. 2008. Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight. ., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2014. Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program., Wood. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 112159, Copper
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 76852
 
Pollutant: Copper
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 17
Number of Exceedances: 1
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: State Water Board staff assessed County of San Diego NDPES data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 1 of 17 samples exceed the criterion for Copper.
Data Reference: Data for Various Pollutants from the County of San Diego Department of Public Works Watershed Protection Program, 2001-2008.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: California Toxics Rule (CTR) lists criterion continuous concentrations for dissolved copper to protect aquatic life in freshwater. The dissolved copper criterion in freshwater is hardness dependent for each sample and varies based on the ambient hardness during sampling. Section (b)(1) in CTR contains the hardness dependent formula for the metals criterion.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Code of Federal Regulations 40 part 131.38 Establishment of numeric criteria for priority toxic pollutants for the State of California. 7/1/2011 Edition
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Tijuana River was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Tijuana River - 911TJR-MLS]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 1/29/2002-12/16/2008.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: The Quality Assurance Project Plan from Weston, the Regional Monitoring Workgroup Urban Runoff Monitoring Final Report Methods Sections and Statements of Work, and Weston Solutions Inc. Desk Reference for Quality Control Of Work Products was followed.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Weston, The Regional Monitoring Workgroup Urban Runoff Monitoring Final Report Methods Sections and Statements of Work, and Weston Solutions Inc. Desk Reference for Quality Control Of Work Products.
 
 
DECISION ID
112181
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
Pollutant: Cyfluthrin
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)(2018)
Revision Status Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: Insufficient information is available to determine beneficial use support for this waterbody-pollutant combination with the statistical power and confidence required by the Listing Policy. Beneficial use support will be reassessed in a future cycle, if more data are available.
 
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. The readily available data and information is insufficient to determine, with the power and confidence of the Listing Policy, the applicable beneficial use support rating.
 
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 112181, Cyfluthrin
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 77922
 
Pollutant: Cyfluthrin
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Sediment
Matrix: Sediment
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Preservation of Rare & Endangered Species
 
Number of Samples: 1
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed SWAMP data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 1 samples exceed the criterion for Cyfluthrin, total.
Data Reference: Statewide Stream Pollution Trends Study 2008
 
SWAMP Data: SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin (SDRWQCB 2007): 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.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: The evaluation guideline for cyfluthrin is the median lethal concentration (LC50) of 1.1 ug/g and is normalized by the percentage of organic carbon in the sediment sample. The LC50 1.1 ug/g is the geometric mean of LC50 values for cyfluthrin from Amweg et al. (2005).
Guideline Reference: Use and Toxicity of Pyrethroid Pesticides in the Central Valley, California, USA. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry, 24:966-972, with erratum 24:No. 5
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Tijuana River was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Tijuana River at Hollister Rd - 911TJHRxx]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected on a single day 5/22/2008.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: SWAMP data collected before September 2008 followed the QAMP 2002.
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 112181, Cyfluthrin
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 227921
 
Pollutant: Cyfluthrin
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 0
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed County of San Diego data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support, and the results are as follows: 0 of the 0 samples exceeded the evaluation guideline for Cyfluthrin. Although a total of 1 samples were collected, 1 of these samples were not included in the assessment because the laboratory data reporting limit(s) was above the water quality threshold and therefore the results could not be quantified with the level of certainty required by the Listing Policy Section 6.1.5.5.
Data Reference: Data for Various Pollutants from the County of San Diego Department of Public Works Watershed Protection Program, 2001-2008.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: All waters shall be maintained free of toxic substances in concentrations that are toxic to, or produce detrimental physiological responses in, human, plant, animal, or aquatic life (Water Quality Control Plan, San Diego Basin).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: The chronic concentration goal for Cyfluthrin is 0.2 ng/L (expressed as a 4-day average).  If the freely dissolved concentrations of Cyfluthrin were reported or could be calculated then these values were used for this assessment.  In the absence of freely dissolved concentrations, total concentrations were used.
Guideline Reference: Water Quality Criteria Report for Bifenthrin
Guideline Reference: Amendment to the Water Quality Control Plan for the Sacramento River and San Joaquin River Basins for the Control of Pyrethroid Pesticide Discharges
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site (911TJR-MLS).
Temporal Representation: Date for this waterbody was collected over the date range 2008-12-16 to 2008-12-16
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: The Quality Assurance Project Plan from Weston, The Regional Monitoring Workgroup Urban Runoff Monitoring Final Report Methods Sections and Statements of Work, and Weston Solutions Inc. Desk Reference for Quality Control Of Work Products.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Weston, The Regional Monitoring Workgroup Urban Runoff Monitoring Final Report Methods Sections and Statements of Work, and Weston Solutions Inc. Desk Reference for Quality Control Of Work Products.
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 112181, Cyfluthrin
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 136415
 
Pollutant: Cyfluthrin
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Sediment
Matrix: Sediment
Fraction: Total
 
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: Water Board staff assessed San Diego Region NPDES data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and the results are as follows: 0 of the 2 samples exceeded the evaluation guideline for Cyfluthrin, total .
Data Reference: Field, Habitat, Sediment, Toxicity, Water data for the 2020/2022 integrated report in Region 9.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: All waters shall be maintained free of toxic substances in concentrations that are toxic to, or that produce detrimental physiological responses in human, plant, animal, or aquatic life (Water Quality Control Plan, San Diego Basin).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: The evaluation guideline for cyfluthrin is the median lethal concentration (LC50) of 1.1 ug/g and is normalized by the percentage of organic carbon in the sediment sample. The LC50 1.1 ug/g is the geometric mean of LC50 values for cyfluthrin from Amweg et al. (2005).
Guideline Reference: Use and Toxicity of Pyrethroid Pesticides in the Central Valley, California, USA. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry, 24:966-972, with erratum 24:No. 5
 
Spatial Representation: Data were collected from 1 station(s). Station Code(s): TJR-MLS.
Temporal Representation: Data for this waterbody were collected over the date range 2011-10-11 to 2013-10-15
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: County of San Diego - Dept of Public Works. 2008. Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight. ., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2014. Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program., Wood. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 112181, Cyfluthrin
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 141850
 
Pollutant: Cyfluthrin
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 0
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed San Diego Region NPDES data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support, and the results are as follows: 0 of the 0 samples exceeded the evaluation guideline for Cyfluthrin. Although a total of 7 samples were collected, 7 of these samples were not included in the assessment because the laboratory data reporting limit(s) was above the water quality threshold and therefore the results could not be quantified with the level of certainty required by the Listing Policy Section 6.1.5.5.
Data Reference: Field, Habitat, Sediment, Toxicity, Water data for the 2020/2022 integrated report in Region 9.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: All waters shall be maintained free of toxic substances in concentrations that are toxic to, or produce detrimental physiological responses in, human, plant, animal, or aquatic life (Water Quality Control Plan, San Diego Basin).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: The chronic concentration goal for Cyfluthrin is 0.2 ng/L (expressed as a 4-day average).  If the freely dissolved concentrations of Cyfluthrin were reported or could be calculated then these values were used for this assessment.  In the absence of freely dissolved concentrations, total concentrations were used.
Guideline Reference: Water Quality Criteria Report for Bifenthrin
Guideline Reference: Amendment to the Water Quality Control Plan for the Sacramento River and San Joaquin River Basins for the Control of Pyrethroid Pesticide Discharges
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site (TJR-MLS).
Temporal Representation: Date for this waterbody was collected over the date range 2011-10-06 to 2014-05-08
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: County of San Diego - Dept of Public Works. 2008. Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight. ., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2014. Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program., Wood. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 112181, Cyfluthrin
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 141971
 
Pollutant: Cyfluthrin
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 1
Number of Exceedances: 1
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed San Diego Region NPDES data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 1 of 1 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for Cyfluthrin.
Data Reference: Field, Habitat, Sediment, Toxicity, Water data for the 2020/2022 integrated report in Region 9.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: All waters shall be maintained free of toxic substances in concentrations that are toxic to, or produce detrimental physiological responses in, human, plant, animal, or aquatic life (Water Quality Control Plan, San Diego Basin).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: The chronic concentration goal for Cyfluthrin is 0.2 ng/L (expressed as a 4-day average).  If the freely dissolved concentrations of Cyfluthrin were reported or could be calculated then these values were used for this assessment.  In the absence of freely dissolved concentrations, total concentrations were used.
Guideline Reference: Water Quality Criteria Report for Bifenthrin
Guideline Reference: Amendment to the Water Quality Control Plan for the Sacramento River and San Joaquin River Basins for the Control of Pyrethroid Pesticide Discharges
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site (TJR-MLS)
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2012-02-08 and 2012-02-08
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: County of San Diego - Dept of Public Works. 2008. Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight. ., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2014. Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program., Wood. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load
 
 
DECISION ID
112183
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
Pollutant: Cyhalothrin, Lambda
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)(2018)
Revision Status Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: Insufficient information is available to determine beneficial use support for this waterbody-pollutant combination with the statistical power and confidence required by the Listing Policy. Beneficial use support will be reassessed in a future cycle, if more data are available.
 
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. The readily available data and information is insufficient to determine, with the power and confidence of the Listing Policy, the applicable beneficial use support rating.
 
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 112183, Cyhalothrin, Lambda
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 142979
 
Pollutant: Cyhalothrin, Lambda
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 1
Number of Exceedances: 1
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed San Diego Region NPDES data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 1 of 1 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for Lambda-cyhalothrin.
Data Reference: Field, Habitat, Sediment, Toxicity, Water data for the 2020/2022 integrated report in Region 9.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: All waters shall be maintained free of toxic substances in concentrations that are toxic to, or produce detrimental physiological responses in, human, plant, animal, or aquatic life (Water Quality Control Plan, San Diego Basin).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: The chronic concentration goal for Lambda-cyhalothrin is 0.3 ng/L (expressed as a 4-day average).  If the freely dissolved concentrations of Lambda-cyhalothrin were reported or could be calculated then these values were used for this assessment.  In the absence of freely dissolved concentrations, total concentrations were used.
Guideline Reference: Water Quality Criteria Report for Lambda-cyhalothrin
Guideline Reference: Amendment to the Water Quality Control Plan for the Sacramento River and San Joaquin River Basins for the Control of Pyrethroid Pesticide Discharges
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site (TJR-MLS)
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2012-02-08 and 2012-02-08
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: County of San Diego - Dept of Public Works. 2008. Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight. ., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2014. Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program., Wood. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 112183, Cyhalothrin, Lambda
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 142873
 
Pollutant: Cyhalothrin, Lambda
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 0
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed San Diego Region NPDES data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support, and the results are as follows: 0 of the 0 samples exceeded the evaluation guideline for Lambda-cyhalothrin. Although a total of 7 samples were collected, 7 of these samples were not included in the assessment because the laboratory data reporting limit(s) was above the water quality threshold and therefore the results could not be quantified with the level of certainty required by the Listing Policy Section 6.1.5.5.
Data Reference: Field, Habitat, Sediment, Toxicity, Water data for the 2020/2022 integrated report in Region 9.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: All waters shall be maintained free of toxic substances in concentrations that are toxic to, or produce detrimental physiological responses in, human, plant, animal, or aquatic life (Water Quality Control Plan, San Diego Basin).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: The chronic concentration goal for Lambda-cyhalothrin is 0.3 ng/L (expressed as a 4-day average).  If the freely dissolved concentrations of Lambda-cyhalothrin were reported or could be calculated then these values were used for this assessment.  In the absence of freely dissolved concentrations, total concentrations were used.
Guideline Reference: Water Quality Criteria Report for Lambda-cyhalothrin
Guideline Reference: Amendment to the Water Quality Control Plan for the Sacramento River and San Joaquin River Basins for the Control of Pyrethroid Pesticide Discharges
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site (TJR-MLS).
Temporal Representation: Date for this waterbody was collected over the date range 2011-10-06 to 2014-05-08
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: County of San Diego - Dept of Public Works. 2008. Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight. ., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2014. Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program., Wood. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 112183, Cyhalothrin, Lambda
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 136812
 
Pollutant: Cyhalothrin, Lambda
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Sediment
Matrix: Sediment
Fraction: Total
 
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: Water Board staff assessed San Diego Region NPDES data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and the results are as follows: 0 of the 2 samples exceeded the evaluation guideline for Cyhalothrin, Total lambda- .
Data Reference: Field, Habitat, Sediment, Toxicity, Water data for the 2020/2022 integrated report in Region 9.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: All waters shall be maintained free of toxic substances in concentrations that are toxic to, or that produce detrimental physiological responses in human, plant, animal, or aquatic life (Water Quality Control Plan, San Diego Basin).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: The evaluation guideline for lambda-cyhalothrin is the median lethal concentration (LC50) of 0.44 ug/g and is normalized by the percentage of organic carbon in the sediment sample. The LC50 0.44 ug/g is the geometric mean of LC50 values for lambda-cyhalothrin from Amweg et al. (2005).
Guideline Reference: Use and Toxicity of Pyrethroid Pesticides in the Central Valley, California, USA. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry, 24:966-972, with erratum 24:No. 5
 
Spatial Representation: Data were collected from 1 station(s). Station Code(s): TJR-MLS.
Temporal Representation: Data for this waterbody were collected over the date range 2011-10-11 to 2013-10-15
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: County of San Diego - Dept of Public Works. 2008. Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight. ., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2014. Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program., Wood. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 112183, Cyhalothrin, Lambda
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 77923
 
Pollutant: Cyhalothrin, Lambda
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Sediment
Matrix: Sediment
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Preservation of Rare & Endangered Species
 
Number of Samples: 1
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed SWAMP data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 1 samples exceed the criterion for Cyhalothrin, lambda, total.
Data Reference: Statewide Stream Pollution Trends Study 2008
 
SWAMP Data: SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin (SDRWQCB 2007): 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.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: The evaluation guideline for lambda-cyhalothrin is the median lethal concentration (LC50) of 0.44 ug/g and is normalized by the percentage of organic carbon in the sediment sample. The LC50 0.44 ug/g is the geometric mean of LC50 values for lambda-cyhalothrin from Amweg et al. (2005).
Guideline Reference: Use and Toxicity of Pyrethroid Pesticides in the Central Valley, California, USA. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry, 24:966-972, with erratum 24:No. 5
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Tijuana River was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Tijuana River at Hollister Rd - 911TJHRxx]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected on a single day 5/22/2008.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: SWAMP data collected before September 2008 followed the QAMP 2002.
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 112183, Cyhalothrin, Lambda
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 227705
 
Pollutant: Cyhalothrin, Lambda
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 0
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed County of San Diego data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support, and the results are as follows: 0 of the 0 samples exceeded the evaluation guideline for Lambda-cyhalothrin. Although a total of 1 samples were collected, 1 of these samples were not included in the assessment because the laboratory data reporting limit(s) was above the water quality threshold and therefore the results could not be quantified with the level of certainty required by the Listing Policy Section 6.1.5.5.
Data Reference: Data for Various Pollutants from the County of San Diego Department of Public Works Watershed Protection Program, 2001-2008.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: All waters shall be maintained free of toxic substances in concentrations that are toxic to, or produce detrimental physiological responses in, human, plant, animal, or aquatic life (Water Quality Control Plan, San Diego Basin).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: The chronic concentration goal for Lambda-cyhalothrin is 0.3 ng/L (expressed as a 4-day average).  If the freely dissolved concentrations of Lambda-cyhalothrin were reported or could be calculated then these values were used for this assessment.  In the absence of freely dissolved concentrations, total concentrations were used.
Guideline Reference: Water Quality Criteria Report for Lambda-cyhalothrin
Guideline Reference: Amendment to the Water Quality Control Plan for the Sacramento River and San Joaquin River Basins for the Control of Pyrethroid Pesticide Discharges
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site (911TJR-MLS).
Temporal Representation: Date for this waterbody was collected over the date range 2008-12-16 to 2008-12-16
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: The Quality Assurance Project Plan from Weston, The Regional Monitoring Workgroup Urban Runoff Monitoring Final Report Methods Sections and Statements of Work, and Weston Solutions Inc. Desk Reference for Quality Control Of Work Products.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Weston, The Regional Monitoring Workgroup Urban Runoff Monitoring Final Report Methods Sections and Statements of Work, and Weston Solutions Inc. Desk Reference for Quality Control Of Work Products.
 
 
DECISION ID
112182
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
Pollutant: Deltamethrin
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)(2018)
Revision Status Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: Insufficient information is available to determine beneficial use support for this waterbody-pollutant combination with the statistical power and confidence required by the Listing Policy. Beneficial use support will be reassessed in a future cycle, if more data are available.
 
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. The readily available data and information is insufficient to determine, with the power and confidence of the Listing Policy, the applicable beneficial use support rating.
 
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 112182, Deltamethrin
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 227647
 
Pollutant: Deltamethrin
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
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: Water Board staff assessed County of San Diego data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 1 samples exceed the water quality threshold for Deltamethrin.
Data Reference: Data for Various Pollutants from the County of San Diego Department of Public Works Watershed Protection Program, 2001-2008.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: No individual pesticide or combination of pesticides shall be present in the water column, sediments or biota at concentration(s) that adversely affect beneficial uses. Pesticides shall not be present at levels which will bioaccumulate in aquatic organisms to levels which are harmful to human health, wildlife or aquatic organisms (Water Quality Control Plan, San Diego Basin).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: The evaluation guideline for Deltamethrin is the USEPA Aquatic Life Benchmark of 0.0041 ug/L for a invertebrate (acute).
Guideline Reference: OPP Aquatic Life Benchmarks
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Tijuana River was collected at 1 monitoring site [Tijuana River - 911TJR-MLS]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected on a single day 12/16/2008.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: The Quality Assurance Project Plan from Weston, the Regional Monitoring Workgroup Urban Runoff Monitoring Final Report Methods Sections and Statements of Work, and Weston Solutions Inc. Desk Reference for Quality Control Of Work Products were followed.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Weston, The Regional Monitoring Workgroup Urban Runoff Monitoring Final Report Methods Sections and Statements of Work, and Weston Solutions Inc. Desk Reference for Quality Control Of Work Products.
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 112182, Deltamethrin
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 142299
 
Pollutant: Deltamethrin
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 8
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed San Diego Region NPDES data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 8 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for Deltamethrin.
Data Reference: Field, Habitat, Sediment, Toxicity, Water data for the 2020/2022 integrated report in Region 9.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: All waters shall be maintained free of toxic substances in concentrations that are toxic to, or that produce detrimental physiological responses in human, plant, animal, or aquatic life (Water Quality Control Plan, San Diego Basin).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: The evaluation guideline for Deltamethrin is the USEPA Aquatic Life Benchmark of 0.0041 ug/L for a invertebrate (acute).
Guideline Reference: OPP Aquatic Life Benchmarks
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site (TJR-MLS)
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2011-10-06 and 2014-05-08
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: County of San Diego - Dept of Public Works. 2008. Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight. ., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2014. Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program., Wood. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 112182, Deltamethrin
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 77914
 
Pollutant: Deltamethrin
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Sediment
Matrix: Sediment
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Preservation of Rare & Endangered Species
 
Number of Samples: 1
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed SWAMP data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 1 samples exceed the criterion for Deltamethrin.
Data Reference: Statewide Stream Pollution Trends Study 2008
 
SWAMP Data: SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin (SDRWQCB 2007): 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.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: The evaluation guideline for deltamethrin is the median lethal concentration (LC50) of 0.79 ug/g and is normalized by the percentage of organic carbon in the sediment sample. The LC50 0.79 ug/g is the geometric mean of LC50 values for deltamethrin from Amweg et al. (2005).
Guideline Reference: Use and Toxicity of Pyrethroid Pesticides in the Central Valley, California, USA. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry, 24:966-972, with erratum 24:No. 5
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Tijuana River was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Tijuana River at Hollister Rd - 911TJHRxx]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected on a single day 5/22/2008.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: SWAMP data collected before September 2008 followed the QAMP 2002.
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 112182, Deltamethrin
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 137065
 
Pollutant: Deltamethrin
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Sediment
Matrix: Sediment
Fraction: Total
 
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: Water Board staff assessed San Diego Region NPDES data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and the results are as follows: 0 of the 2 samples exceeded the evaluation guideline for Deltamethrin .
Data Reference: Field, Habitat, Sediment, Toxicity, Water data for the 2020/2022 integrated report in Region 9.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: All waters shall be maintained free of toxic substances in concentrations that are toxic to, or that produce detrimental physiological responses in human, plant, animal, or aquatic life (Water Quality Control Plan, San Diego Basin).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: The evaluation guideline for deltamethrin is the median lethal concentration (LC50) of 0.79 ug/g and is normalized by the percentage of organic carbon in the sediment sample. The LC50 0.79 ug/g is the geometric mean of LC50 values for deltamethrin from Amweg et al. (2005).
Guideline Reference: Use and Toxicity of Pyrethroid Pesticides in the Central Valley, California, USA. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry, 24:966-972, with erratum 24:No. 5
 
Spatial Representation: Data were collected from 1 station(s). Station Code(s): TJR-MLS.
Temporal Representation: Data for this waterbody were collected over the date range 2011-10-11 to 2013-10-15
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: County of San Diego - Dept of Public Works. 2008. Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight. ., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2014. Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program., Wood. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load
 
 
DECISION ID
112186
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
Pollutant: Demeton
Final Listing Decision: Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: New Decision
Revision Status Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: Insufficient information is available to determine beneficial use support for this waterbody-pollutant combination with the statistical power and confidence required by the Listing Policy. Beneficial use support will be reassessed in a future cycle, if more data are available.
 
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. The readily available data and information is insufficient to determine, with the power and confidence of the Listing Policy, the applicable beneficial use support rating.
 
State Board Review of Regional Board Conclusion and Recommendation:
 
State Board Decision Recommendation:
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 112186, Demeton
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 142078
 
Pollutant: Demeton
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 8
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed San Diego Region NPDES data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 8 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for Demeton, Total.
Data Reference: Field, Habitat, Sediment, Toxicity, Water data for the 2020/2022 integrated report in Region 9.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: All waters shall be maintained free of toxic substances in concentrations that are toxic to, or that produce detrimental physiological responses in human, plant, animal, or aquatic life (Water Quality Control Plan, San Diego Basin).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: The USEPA National Recomm. Water Quality criteria, 4-day avg. is 0.1 ug/L.
Guideline Reference: National Recommended Water Quality Criteria. United States Environmental Protection Agency. Office of Water. Office of Science and Technology
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site (TJR-MLS)
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2011-10-06 and 2014-05-08
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: County of San Diego - Dept of Public Works. 2008. Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight. ., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2014. Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program., Wood. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load
 
 
DECISION ID
112177
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
Pollutant: Dimethoate
Final Listing Decision: Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: New Decision
Revision Status Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: Insufficient information is available to determine beneficial use support for this waterbody-pollutant combination with the statistical power and confidence required by the Listing Policy. Beneficial use support will be reassessed in a future cycle, if more data are available.
 
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:
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 112177, Dimethoate
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 142403
 
Pollutant: Dimethoate
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 9
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed San Diego Region NPDES data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 9 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for Dimethoate.
Data Reference: Field, Habitat, Sediment, Toxicity, Water data for the 2020/2022 integrated report in Region 9.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: All waters shall be maintained free of toxic substances in concentrations that are toxic to, or that produce detrimental physiological responses in human, plant, animal, or aquatic life (Water Quality Control Plan, San Diego Basin).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: The evaluation guideline for Dimethoate is the USEPA Aquatic Life Benchmark of 0.5 ug/L for a invertebrate (acute).
Guideline Reference: OPP Aquatic Life Benchmarks
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site (TJR-MLS)
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2011-10-06 and 2014-05-08
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: County of San Diego - Dept of Public Works. 2008. Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight. ., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2014. Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program., Wood. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load
 
 
DECISION ID
112187
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
Pollutant: Esfenvalerate/Fenvalerate
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)(2018)
Revision Status Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: Insufficient information is available to determine beneficial use support for this waterbody-pollutant combination with the statistical power and confidence required by the Listing Policy. Beneficial use support will be reassessed in a future cycle, if more data are available.
 
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. The readily available data and information is insufficient to determine, with the power and confidence of the Listing Policy, the applicable beneficial use support rating.
 
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 112187, Esfenvalerate/Fenvalerate
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 77916
 
Pollutant: Esfenvalerate/Fenvalerate
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Sediment
Matrix: Sediment
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Preservation of Rare & Endangered Species
 
Number of Samples: 1
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed SWAMP data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 1 samples exceed the criterion for Esfenvalerate/Fenvalerate, total.
Data Reference: Statewide Stream Pollution Trends Study 2008
 
SWAMP Data: SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin (SDRWQCB 2007): 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.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: The evaluation guideline for esfenvalerate/fenvalerate is the median lethal concentration (LC50) of 1.5 ug/g and is normalized by the percentage of organic carbon in the sediment sample. The LC50 1.5 ug/g is the geometric mean of LC50 values for esfenvalerate/fenvalerate from Amweg et al. (2005).
Guideline Reference: Use and Toxicity of Pyrethroid Pesticides in the Central Valley, California, USA. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry, 24:966-972, with erratum 24:No. 5
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Tijuana River was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Tijuana River at Hollister Rd - 911TJHRxx]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected on a single day 5/22/2008.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: SWAMP data collected before September 2008 followed the QAMP 2002.
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 112187, Esfenvalerate/Fenvalerate
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 227717
 
Pollutant: Esfenvalerate/Fenvalerate
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 1
Number of Exceedances: 1
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed County of San Diego data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 1 of 1 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for Esfenvalerate.
Data Reference: Data for Various Pollutants from the County of San Diego Department of Public Works Watershed Protection Program, 2001-2008.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: All waters shall be maintained free of toxic substances in concentrations that are toxic to, or produce detrimental physiological responses in, human, plant, animal, or aquatic life (Water Quality Control Plan, San Diego Basin).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: The chronic concentration goal for Esfenvalerate is 0.3 ng/L (expressed as a 4-day average).  If the freely dissolved concentrations of Esfenvalerate were reported or could be calculated then these values were used for this assessment.  In the absence of freely dissolved concentrations, total concentrations were used.
Guideline Reference: Water Quality Criteria Report for Esfenvalerate
Guideline Reference: Amendment to the Water Quality Control Plan for the Sacramento River and San Joaquin River Basins for the Control of Pyrethroid Pesticide Discharges
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site (911TJR-MLS)
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2008-12-16 and 2008-12-16
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: The Quality Assurance Project Plan from Weston, The Regional Monitoring Workgroup Urban Runoff Monitoring Final Report Methods Sections and Statements of Work, and Weston Solutions Inc. Desk Reference for Quality Control Of Work Products.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Weston, The Regional Monitoring Workgroup Urban Runoff Monitoring Final Report Methods Sections and Statements of Work, and Weston Solutions Inc. Desk Reference for Quality Control Of Work Products.
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 112187, Esfenvalerate/Fenvalerate
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 142470
 
Pollutant: Esfenvalerate/Fenvalerate
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 0
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed San Diego Region NPDES data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support, and the results are as follows: 0 of the 0 samples exceeded the evaluation guideline for Esfenvalerate. Although a total of 8 samples were collected, 8 of these samples were not included in the assessment because the laboratory data reporting limit(s) was above the water quality threshold and therefore the results could not be quantified with the level of certainty required by the Listing Policy Section 6.1.5.5.
Data Reference: Field, Habitat, Sediment, Toxicity, Water data for the 2020/2022 integrated report in Region 9.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: All waters shall be maintained free of toxic substances in concentrations that are toxic to, or produce detrimental physiological responses in, human, plant, animal, or aquatic life (Water Quality Control Plan, San Diego Basin).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: The chronic concentration goal for Esfenvalerate is 0.3 ng/L (expressed as a 4-day average).  If the freely dissolved concentrations of Esfenvalerate were reported or could be calculated then these values were used for this assessment.  In the absence of freely dissolved concentrations, total concentrations were used.
Guideline Reference: Water Quality Criteria Report for Esfenvalerate
Guideline Reference: Amendment to the Water Quality Control Plan for the Sacramento River and San Joaquin River Basins for the Control of Pyrethroid Pesticide Discharges
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site (TJR-MLS).
Temporal Representation: Date for this waterbody was collected over the date range 2011-10-06 to 2014-05-08
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: County of San Diego - Dept of Public Works. 2008. Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight. ., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2014. Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program., Wood. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 112187, Esfenvalerate/Fenvalerate
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 137303
 
Pollutant: Esfenvalerate/Fenvalerate
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Sediment
Matrix: Sediment
Fraction: Total
 
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: Water Board staff assessed San Diego Region NPDES data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and the results are as follows: 0 of the 2 samples exceeded the evaluation guideline for Esfenvalerate/Fenvalerate, Total .
Data Reference: Field, Habitat, Sediment, Toxicity, Water data for the 2020/2022 integrated report in Region 9.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: All waters shall be maintained free of toxic substances in concentrations that are toxic to, or that produce detrimental physiological responses in human, plant, animal, or aquatic life (Water Quality Control Plan, San Diego Basin).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: The evaluation guideline for esfenvalerate/fenvalerate is the median lethal concentration (LC50) of 1.5 ug/g and is normalized by the percentage of organic carbon in the sediment sample. The LC50 1.5 ug/g is the geometric mean of LC50 values for esfenvalerate/fenvalerate from Amweg et al. (2005).
Guideline Reference: Use and Toxicity of Pyrethroid Pesticides in the Central Valley, California, USA. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry, 24:966-972, with erratum 24:No. 5
 
Spatial Representation: Data were collected from 1 station(s). Station Code(s): TJR-MLS.
Temporal Representation: Data for this waterbody were collected over the date range 2011-10-11 to 2013-10-15
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: County of San Diego - Dept of Public Works. 2008. Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight. ., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2014. Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program., Wood. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load
 
 
DECISION ID
112178
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
Pollutant: Ethoprop
Final Listing Decision: Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: New Decision
Revision Status Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: Insufficient information is available to determine beneficial use support for this waterbody-pollutant combination with the statistical power and confidence required by the Listing Policy. Beneficial use support will be reassessed in a future cycle, if more data are available.
 
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. The readily available data and information is insufficient to determine, with the power and confidence of the Listing Policy, the applicable beneficial use support rating.
 
State Board Review of Regional Board Conclusion and Recommendation:
 
State Board Decision Recommendation:
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 112178, Ethoprop
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 142634
 
Pollutant: Ethoprop
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 10
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed San Diego Region NPDES data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 10 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for Ethoprop.
Data Reference: Field, Habitat, Sediment, Toxicity, Water data for the 2020/2022 integrated report in Region 9.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: All waters shall be maintained free of toxic substances in concentrations that are toxic to, or that produce detrimental physiological responses in human, plant, animal, or aquatic life (Water Quality Control Plan, San Diego Basin).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: The evaluation guideline for Ethoprop is the USEPA Aquatic Life Benchmark of 0.8 ug/L for a invertebrate (acute).
Guideline Reference: OPP Aquatic Life Benchmarks
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site (TJR-MLS)
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2011-10-06 and 2014-05-08
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: County of San Diego - Dept of Public Works. 2008. Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight. ., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2014. Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program., Wood. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load
 
 
DECISION ID
112185
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
Pollutant: Fenpropathrin
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)(2018)
Revision Status Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: Insufficient information is available to determine beneficial use support for this waterbody-pollutant combination with the statistical power and confidence required by the Listing Policy. Beneficial use support will be reassessed in a future cycle, if more data are available.
 
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. The readily available data and information is insufficient to determine, with the power and confidence of the Listing Policy, the applicable beneficial use support rating.
 
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 112185, Fenpropathrin
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 142673
 
Pollutant: Fenpropathrin
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 8
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed San Diego Region NPDES data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 8 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for Fenpropathrin.
Data Reference: Field, Habitat, Sediment, Toxicity, Water data for the 2020/2022 integrated report in Region 9.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: All waters shall be maintained free of toxic substances in concentrations that are toxic to, or that produce detrimental physiological responses in human, plant, animal, or aquatic life (Water Quality Control Plan, San Diego Basin).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: The evaluation guideline for Fenpropathrin is the USEPA Aquatic Life Benchmark of 0.06 ug/L for a fish (chronic).
Guideline Reference: OPP Aquatic Life Benchmarks
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site (TJR-MLS)
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2011-10-06 and 2014-05-08
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: County of San Diego - Dept of Public Works. 2008. Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight. ., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2014. Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program., Wood. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 112185, Fenpropathrin
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 137273
 
Pollutant: Fenpropathrin
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Sediment
Matrix: Sediment
Fraction: Total
 
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: Water Board staff assessed San Diego Region NPDES data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and the results are as follows: 0 of the 2 samples exceeded the evaluation guideline for Fenpropathrin .
Data Reference: Field, Habitat, Sediment, Toxicity, Water data for the 2020/2022 integrated report in Region 9.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: All waters shall be maintained free of toxic substances in concentrations that are toxic to, or that produce detrimental physiological responses in human, plant, animal, or aquatic life (Water Quality Control Plan, San Diego Basin).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: The evaluation guideline for fenpropathrin is the median lethal concentration (LC50) of 1 ug/g and is normalized by the percentage of organic carbon in the sediment sample. The LC50 1 ug/g is the geometric mean of LC50 values for fenpropathrin from Ding et al. ( 2011).
Guideline Reference: Toxicity of Sediment-Associated Pesticides to Chironomus dilutus and Hyalella azteca. Arch. Environ. Contam. Toxicol. 61:83¿92.
 
Spatial Representation: Data were collected from 1 station(s). Station Code(s): TJR-MLS.
Temporal Representation: Data for this waterbody were collected over the date range 2011-10-11 to 2013-10-15
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: County of San Diego - Dept of Public Works. 2008. Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight. ., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2014. Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program., Wood. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 112185, Fenpropathrin
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 77917
 
Pollutant: Fenpropathrin
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Sediment
Matrix: Sediment
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Preservation of Rare & Endangered Species
 
Number of Samples: 1
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed SWAMP data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 1 samples exceed the criterion for Fenpropathrin.
Data Reference: Statewide Stream Pollution Trends Study 2008
 
SWAMP Data: SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin (SDRWQCB 2007): 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.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: The evaluation guideline for fenpropathrin is the median lethal concentration (LC50) of 1 ug/g and is normalized by the percentage of organic carbon in the sediment sample. The LC50 1 ug/g is the geometric mean of LC50 values for fenpropathrin from Ding et al. ( 2011).
Guideline Reference: Toxicity of Sediment-Associated Pesticides to Chironomus dilutus and Hyalella azteca. Arch. Environ. Contam. Toxicol. 61:83¿92.
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Tijuana River was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Tijuana River at Hollister Rd - 911TJHRxx]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected on a single day 5/22/2008.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: SWAMP data collected before September 2008 followed the QAMP 2002.
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
112155
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
Pollutant: Fenvalerate
Final Listing Decision: Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: New Decision
Revision Status Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: Insufficient information is available to determine beneficial use support for this waterbody-pollutant combination with the statistical power and confidence required by the Listing Policy. Beneficial use support will be reassessed in a future cycle, if more data are available.
 
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. The readily available data and information is insufficient to determine, with the power and confidence of the Listing Policy, the applicable beneficial use support rating.
 
State Board Review of Regional Board Conclusion and Recommendation:
 
State Board Decision Recommendation:
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 112155, Fenvalerate
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 142854
 
Pollutant: Fenvalerate
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
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: Water Board staff assessed San Diego Region NPDES data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 2 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for Fenvalerate.
Data Reference: Field, Habitat, Sediment, Toxicity, Water data for the 2020/2022 integrated report in Region 9.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: All waters shall be maintained free of toxic substances in concentrations that are toxic to, or that produce detrimental physiological responses in human, plant, animal, or aquatic life (Water Quality Control Plan, San Diego Basin).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: The evaluation guideline for Fenvalerate is the LC50 of 1.13 ug/L for fathead minnow, Pimephales promelas. (USEPA Office of Pesticide Programs Ecotoxicity database)
Guideline Reference: OPP Pesticide Ecotoxicity Database.
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site (TJR-MLS)
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2011-10-06 and 2012-02-08
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: County of San Diego - Dept of Public Works. 2008. Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight. ., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2014. Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program., Wood. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load
 
 
DECISION ID
112162
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
Pollutant: Iron
Final Listing Decision: Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: New Decision
Revision Status Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: Insufficient information is available to determine beneficial use support for this waterbody-pollutant combination with the statistical power and confidence required by the Listing Policy. Beneficial use support will be reassessed in a future cycle, if more data are available.
 
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. The readily available data and information is insufficient to determine, with the power and confidence of the Listing Policy, the applicable beneficial use support rating.
 
State Board Review of Regional Board Conclusion and Recommendation:
 
State Board Decision Recommendation:
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 112162, Iron
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 142823
 
Pollutant: Iron
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 6
Number of Exceedances: 4
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed San Diego Region NPDES data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 4 of 6 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for Iron.
Data Reference: Field, Habitat, Sediment, Toxicity, Water data for the 2020/2022 integrated report in Region 9.
 
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 (Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: National Recommended Water Quality Criteria Continuous Concentrations are intended protect aquatic organisms from chronic exposures (expressed as 4-day average concentration) in freshwater. The evaluation guideline for iron is 1,000 ug/L to protect warm freshwater habitat.
Guideline Reference: National Recommended Water Quality Criteria. United States Environmental Protection Agency. Office of Water. Current as of 08/03/2016.
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site (TJR-MLS)
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2013-10-10 and 2014-05-08
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: County of San Diego - Dept of Public Works. 2008. Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight. ., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2014. Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program., Wood. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 112162, Iron
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 142680
 
Pollutant: Iron
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 6
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed San Diego Region NPDES data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 6 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for Iron.
Data Reference: Field, Habitat, Sediment, Toxicity, Water data for the 2020/2022 integrated report in Region 9.
 
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 (Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: National Recommended Water Quality Criteria Continuous Concentrations are intended protect aquatic organisms from chronic exposures (expressed as 4-day average concentration) in freshwater. The evaluation guideline for iron is 1,000 ug/L to protect warm freshwater habitat.
Guideline Reference: National Recommended Water Quality Criteria. United States Environmental Protection Agency. Office of Water. Current as of 08/03/2016.
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site (TJR-MLS)
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2013-10-10 and 2014-05-08
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: County of San Diego - Dept of Public Works. 2008. Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight. ., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2014. Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program., Wood. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load
 
 
DECISION ID
112163
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
Pollutant: Lead
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)(2018)
Revision Status Revised
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 are available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. Zero of the 27 samples exceed the California Toxics Rule criteria for Lead for the protection of aquatic life.

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 27 samples exceeded the water quality threshold, and this does not exceed the allowable frequency listed in Table 3.1 of the Listing Policy.
4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.
 
Regional Board Decision Recommendation: After review of the available data and information, RWQCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should not be placed on the section 303(d) list because applicable water quality standards are not being exceeded.
 
State Board Review of Regional Board Conclusion and Recommendation:
 
State Board Decision Recommendation: After review of this Regional Board decision, SWRCB staff recommend the decision be approved by the State Board.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 112163, Lead
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 3367
 
Pollutant: Lead
LOE Subgroup: Testimonial Evidence
Matrix: Not Specified
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 0
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: From the letter from the San Diego Baykeeper written 06/14/2004: We recommend continued listing of this area for impairment by bacteria, low dissolved oxygen, eutrophication, pesticides, solids, synthetic organics, lead, nickel, thallium, and trash.
Data Reference: Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Objectives are numeric, taken from CTR and Freshwater Sediment (Policy).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)
 
Evaluation Guideline: From the CTR: Freshwater acute standard for lead is 64.58 ppb. Freshwater chronic standard is 2.52 ppb. The probable effects concentration for freshwater sediment is 128 ppm.
Guideline Reference: Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)
 
Spatial Representation: The area with possible impairment is reported as the Tijuana River. Exact location was not reported.
Temporal Representation: The letter suggesting impairment was written on 06/14/2004. Specific sample or study dates were not reported.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: QA Info Missing
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 112163, Lead
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 76796
 
Pollutant: Lead
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 17
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: State Water Board staff assessed County of San Diego NDPES data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 17 samples exceed the criterion for Lead.
Data Reference: Data for Various Pollutants from the County of San Diego Department of Public Works Watershed Protection Program, 2001-2008.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: California Toxics Rule (CTR) lists criterion continuous concentrations for dissolved lead to protect aquatic life in freshwater. The dissolved lead criterion in freshwater is hardness dependent for each sample and varies based on the ambient hardness during sampling. Section (b)(1) in CTR contains the hardness dependent formula for the metals criterion.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Code of Federal Regulations 40 part 131.38 Establishment of numeric criteria for priority toxic pollutants for the State of California. 7/1/2011 Edition
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Tijuana River was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Tijuana River - 911TJR-MLS]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 1/29/2002-12/16/2008.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: The Quality Assurance Project Plan from Weston, the Regional Monitoring Workgroup Urban Runoff Monitoring Final Report Methods Sections and Statements of Work, and Weston Solutions Inc. Desk Reference for Quality Control Of Work Products was followed.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Weston, The Regional Monitoring Workgroup Urban Runoff Monitoring Final Report Methods Sections and Statements of Work, and Weston Solutions Inc. Desk Reference for Quality Control Of Work Products.
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 112163, Lead
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 143187
 
Pollutant: Lead
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 10
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed San Diego Region NPDES data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 10 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for Lead.
Data Reference: Field, Habitat, Sediment, Toxicity, Water data for the 2020/2022 integrated report in Region 9.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: California Toxics Rule (CTR) lists criterion continuous concentrations to protect aquatic life in freshwater. The criterion in freshwater is hardness dependent for each sample and varies based on the ambient hardness during sampling. Section (b)(1) in CTR contains the hardness dependent formula for the metals criterion.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Standards 2000. Establishment of numeric criteria for priority toxic pollutants for the State of California: Rules and regulations. Federal Register Vol. 65, No. 97. Washington, D.C.: Environmental Protection Agency
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site (TJR-MLS)
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2011-10-06 and 2014-05-08
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: County of San Diego - Dept of Public Works. 2008. Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight. ., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2014. Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program., Wood. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load
 
 
DECISION ID
112180
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
Pollutant: Naled
Final Listing Decision: Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: New Decision
Revision Status Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: Insufficient information is available to determine beneficial use support for this waterbody-pollutant combination with the statistical power and confidence required by the Listing Policy. Beneficial use support will be reassessed in a future cycle, if more data are available.
 
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. The readily available data and information is insufficient to determine, with the power and confidence of the Listing Policy, the applicable beneficial use support rating.
 
State Board Review of Regional Board Conclusion and Recommendation:
 
State Board Decision Recommendation:
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 112180, Naled
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 143343
 
Pollutant: Naled
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 7
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed San Diego Region NPDES data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 7 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for Naled.
Data Reference: Field, Habitat, Sediment, Toxicity, Water data for the 2020/2022 integrated report in Region 9.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: All waters shall be maintained free of toxic substances in concentrations that are toxic to, or that produce detrimental physiological responses in human, plant, animal, or aquatic life (Water Quality Control Plan, San Diego Basin).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: The evaluation guideline for Naled is the USEPA Aquatic Life Benchmark of 0.045 ug/L for an invertebrate (chronic).
Guideline Reference: OPP Aquatic Life Benchmarks
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site (TJR-MLS)
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2011-10-06 and 2014-05-08
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: County of San Diego - Dept of Public Works. 2008. Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight. ., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2014. Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program., Wood. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load
 
 
DECISION ID
112164
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
Pollutant: Nickel
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)(2018)
Revision Status Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: This pollutant is being considered for placement on the CWA section 303(d) List under sections 3.1 and 3.6 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.1 a single line of evidence is necessary, and under section 3.6 at least two lines of evidence are necessary to assess listing status for pollutants in sediment, and pollutant concentrations in sediment must be associated with sediment toxicity to justify adding that pollutant to the CWA section 303(d) List.

Four lines of evidence are available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. Zero of the 27 samples exceed the water quality threshold for the WARM/COLD beneficial use. Zero of the 19 samples exceed the water quality threshold for the COMM beneficial use. Zero of one sediment sample exceeds the water quality threshold for sediment; this sample size is not sufficient to determine beneficial use support with the power and confidence of the Listing Policy.

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 27 samples exceed the threshold for the WARM/COLD beneficial use, and zero of 19 samples exceed the threshold for the COMM beneficial use, and this does not exceed the allowable frequency listed in Table 3.1 of the Listing Policy.
4. Pursuant to SECTION 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.
 
Regional Board Decision Recommendation: After review of the available data and information, RWQCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should not be placed on the section 303(d) list because applicable water quality standards are not being exceeded.
 
State Board Review of Regional Board Conclusion and Recommendation:
 
State Board Decision Recommendation: After review of this Regional Board decision, SWRCB staff recommend the decision be approved by the State Board.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 112164, Nickel
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 76801
 
Pollutant: Nickel
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 17
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: State Water Board staff assessed County of San Diego NDPES data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 17 samples exceed the criterion for Nickel.
Data Reference: Data for Various Pollutants from the County of San Diego Department of Public Works Watershed Protection Program, 2001-2008.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: California Toxics Rule (CTR) lists criterion continuous concentrations for dissolved Nickel to protect aquatic life in freshwater. The dissolved Nickel criterion in freshwater is hardness dependent for each sample and varies based on the ambient hardness during sampling. Section (b)(1) in CTR contains the hardness dependent formula for the metals criterion.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Code of Federal Regulations 40 part 131.38 Establishment of numeric criteria for priority toxic pollutants for the State of California. 7/1/2011 Edition
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Tijuana River was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Tijuana River - 911TJR-MLS]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 1/29/2002-12/16/2008.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: The Quality Assurance Project Plan from Weston, the Regional Monitoring Workgroup Urban Runoff Monitoring Final Report Methods Sections and Statements of Work, and Weston Solutions Inc. Desk Reference for Quality Control Of Work Products was followed.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Weston, The Regional Monitoring Workgroup Urban Runoff Monitoring Final Report Methods Sections and Statements of Work, and Weston Solutions Inc. Desk Reference for Quality Control Of Work Products.
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 112164, Nickel
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 78138
 
Pollutant: Nickel
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Commercial or recreational collection of fish, shellfish, or organisms
 
Number of Samples: 19
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed County of San Diego data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 19 samples exceed the criterion for Nickel.
Data Reference: Data for Various Pollutants from the County of San Diego Department of Public Works Watershed Protection Program, 2001-2008.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Nickel criteria for the protection of human health from consumption of organisms only is 4.6 mg/L (California Toxics Rule, 2000).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Code of Federal Regulations 40 part 131.38 Establishment of numeric criteria for priority toxic pollutants for the State of California. 7/1/2011 Edition
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Tijuana River was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Tijuana River - 911TJR-MLS]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 1/29/2002-12/16/2008.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: The Quality Assurance Project Plan from Weston, the Regional Monitoring Workgroup Urban Runoff Monitoring Final Report Methods Sections and Statements of Work, and Weston Solutions Inc. Desk Reference for Quality Control Of Work Products were followed.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Weston, The Regional Monitoring Workgroup Urban Runoff Monitoring Final Report Methods Sections and Statements of Work, and Weston Solutions Inc. Desk Reference for Quality Control Of Work Products.
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 112164, Nickel
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 76800
 
Pollutant: Nickel
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Sediment
Matrix: Sediment
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Preservation of Rare & Endangered Species
 
Number of Samples: 1
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed SWAMP data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 1 samples exceed the criterion for Nickel.
Data Reference: Statewide Stream Pollution Trends Study 2008
 
SWAMP Data: SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin (SDRWQCB 2007): 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.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: In freshwater sediments the probable effect concentration (predictive of sediment toxicity) for nickel is 48.6 mg/Kg dry weight (MacDonald et al. 2000).
Guideline Reference: Development and evaluation of consensus-based sediment quality guidelines for freshwater ecosystems. Environmental Contamination and Toxicology. 39: 20-31
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Tijuana River was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Tijuana River at Hollister Rd - 911TJHRxx]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected on a single day 5/22/2008.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: SWAMP data collected before September 2008 followed the 2002 QAMP.
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 112164, Nickel
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 143765
 
Pollutant: Nickel
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 10
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed San Diego Region NPDES data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 10 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for Nickel.
Data Reference: Field, Habitat, Sediment, Toxicity, Water data for the 2020/2022 integrated report in Region 9.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: California Toxics Rule (CTR) lists criterion continuous concentrations to protect aquatic life in freshwater. The criterion in freshwater is hardness dependent for each sample and varies based on the ambient hardness during sampling. Section (b)(1) in CTR contains the hardness dependent formula for the metals criterion.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Standards 2000. Establishment of numeric criteria for priority toxic pollutants for the State of California: Rules and regulations. Federal Register Vol. 65, No. 97. Washington, D.C.: Environmental Protection Agency
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site (TJR-MLS)
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2011-10-06 and 2014-05-08
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: County of San Diego - Dept of Public Works. 2008. Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight. ., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2014. Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program., Wood. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 112164, Nickel
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 3368
 
Pollutant: Nickel
LOE Subgroup: Testimonial Evidence
Matrix: Not Specified
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 0
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: From the letter from the San Diego Baykeeper written on 06/14/2004: We recommend continued listing of this area for impairment by bacteria, low dissolved oxygen, eutrophication, pesticides, solids, synthetic organics, lead, nickel, thallium, and trash.
Data Reference: Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The objectives are numeric.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)
 
Evaluation Guideline: From the CTR: The freshwater acute criteria for nickel (when the water hardness is 100) is 468.24 ppb and the freshwater chronic criteria (hardness= 100) is 52.06 ppb. Human Health Criteria for water and organisms is 610 ppb. Freshwater sediment criteria is 48.6 ppm.
Guideline Reference: Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)
 
Spatial Representation: The waterbody with a possible impairment is the Tijuana River. Exact location was not reported.
Temporal Representation: The letter documenting a possible impairment was written on 06/14/2004. Temporal representation for samples or studies was not reported.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: QA Info Missing
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
 
DECISION ID
112188
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
Pollutant: Nonylphenol
Final Listing Decision: Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: New Decision
Revision Status Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: Insufficient information is available to determine beneficial use support for this waterbody-pollutant combination with the statistical power and confidence required by the Listing Policy. Beneficial use support will be reassessed in a future cycle, if more data are available.
 
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. The readily available data and information is insufficient to determine, with the power and confidence of the Listing Policy, the applicable beneficial use support rating.
 
State Board Review of Regional Board Conclusion and Recommendation:
 
State Board Decision Recommendation: After review of the available data and information, SWRCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should not be placed on the section 303(d) list because it cannot be determined if applicable water quality standards are not being exceeded.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 112188, Nonylphenol
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 144546
 
Pollutant: Nonylphenol
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
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: Water Board staff assessed SWAMP RWB9 Monitoring data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 1 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for Nonylphenol.
Data Reference: Field, Habitat, Sediment, Tissue, Water data for the 2020/2022 integrated report in Region 9.
 
SWAMP Data: SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: All waters shall be maintained free of toxic substances in concentrations that are toxic to, or that produce detrimental physiological responses in human, plant, animal, or aquatic life. (Water Quality Control Plan, San Diego Region).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: National Recommended Water Quality Criteria Continuous Concentrations (4-day average concentrations) for freshwater aquatic organisms exposure to nonylphenol is 6.6 ug/L.
Guideline Reference: National Recommended Water Quality Criteria. United States Environmental Protection Agency. Office of Water. Current as of 08/03/2016.
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site (911TTJR06)
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2011-07-25 and 2011-07-25
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: SWAMP QAPrP 2008, Nagoda and Busse, 2013. Quality Assurance Project Plan for Screening of Cyanotoxins in Lakes/Reservoirs and Coastal Wetlands in the San Diego Region, SWAMP QAPrP 2017
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Program Plans, Quality Assurance Project Plans, and Standard Operating Procedures for the SWAMP program
 
 
DECISION ID
112154
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
Pollutant: Oxytetracycline
Final Listing Decision: Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: New Decision
Revision Status Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: Insufficient information is available to determine beneficial use support for this waterbody-pollutant combination with the statistical power and confidence required by the Listing Policy. Beneficial use support will be reassessed in a future cycle, if more data are available.
 
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. The readily available data and information is insufficient to determine, with the power and confidence of the Listing Policy, the applicable beneficial use support rating.
 
State Board Review of Regional Board Conclusion and Recommendation:
 
State Board Decision Recommendation:
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 112154, Oxytetracycline
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 144784
 
Pollutant: Oxytetracycline
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 4
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed SWAMP RWB9 Monitoring data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 4 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for Oxytetracycline.
Data Reference: Field, Habitat, Sediment, Tissue, Water data for the 2020/2022 integrated report in Region 9.
 
SWAMP Data: SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: All waters shall be maintained free of toxic substances in concentrations that are toxic to, or that produce detrimental physiological responses in human, plant, animal, or aquatic life (Water Quality Control Plan, San Diego Basin).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: The evaluation guideline for Oxytetracycline is the USEPA Aquatic Life Benchmark of 47450 ug/L for a fish (acute) for Oxytetracycline (hydrochloride salt).
Guideline Reference: OPP Aquatic Life Benchmarks
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site (911TTJR06)
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2010-11-04 and 2011-09-29
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: SWAMP QAPrP 2008, Nagoda and Busse, 2013. Quality Assurance Project Plan for Screening of Cyanotoxins in Lakes/Reservoirs and Coastal Wetlands in the San Diego Region, SWAMP QAPrP 2017
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Program Plans, Quality Assurance Project Plans, and Standard Operating Procedures for the SWAMP program
 
 
DECISION ID
112166
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
Pollutant: Parathion
Final Listing Decision: Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: New Decision
Revision Status Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: Insufficient information is available to determine beneficial use support for this waterbody-pollutant combination with the statistical power and confidence required by the Listing Policy. Beneficial use support will be reassessed in a future cycle, if more data are available.
 
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. The readily available data and information is insufficient to determine, with the power and confidence of the Listing Policy, the applicable beneficial use support rating.
 
State Board Review of Regional Board Conclusion and Recommendation:
 
State Board Decision Recommendation:
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 112166, Parathion
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 144803
 
Pollutant: Parathion
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 10
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed San Diego Region NPDES data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 10 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for Parathion, Ethyl.
Data Reference: Field, Habitat, Sediment, Toxicity, Water data for the 2020/2022 integrated report in Region 9.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: All waters shall be maintained free of toxic substances in concentrations that are toxic to, or that produce detrimental physiological responses in human, plant, animal, or aquatic life (Water Quality Control Plan, San Diego Basin).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: The USEPA recommended freshwater aquatic life ambient water quality chronic criteria for Parathion is 0.013 ug/L.
Guideline Reference: National Recommended Water Quality Criteria. United States Environmental Protection Agency. Office of Water. Current as of 08/03/2016.
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site (TJR-MLS)
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2011-10-06 and 2014-05-08
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: County of San Diego - Dept of Public Works. 2008. Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight. ., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2014. Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program., Wood. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load
 
 
DECISION ID
112179
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
Pollutant: Phorate
Final Listing Decision: Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: New Decision
Revision Status Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: Insufficient information is available to determine beneficial use support for this waterbody-pollutant combination with the statistical power and confidence required by the Listing Policy. Beneficial use support will be reassessed in a future cycle, if more data are available.
 
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. The readily available data and information is insufficient to determine, with the power and confidence of the Listing Policy, the applicable beneficial use support rating.
 
State Board Review of Regional Board Conclusion and Recommendation:
 
State Board Decision Recommendation:
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 112179, Phorate
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 145774
 
Pollutant: Phorate
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 10
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed San Diego Region NPDES data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 10 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for Phorate.
Data Reference: Field, Habitat, Sediment, Toxicity, Water data for the 2020/2022 integrated report in Region 9.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: All waters shall be maintained free of toxic substances in concentrations that are toxic to, or that produce detrimental physiological responses in human, plant, animal, or aquatic life (Water Quality Control Plan, San Diego Basin).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: The evaluation guideline for Phorate is the USEPA Aquatic Life Benchmark of 0.21 ug/L for a invertebrate (acute).
Guideline Reference: OPP Aquatic Life Benchmarks
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site (TJR-MLS)
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2011-10-06 and 2014-05-08
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: County of San Diego - Dept of Public Works. 2008. Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight. ., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2014. Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program., Wood. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load
 
 
DECISION ID
112170
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
Pollutant: Silver
Final Listing Decision: Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: New Decision
Revision Status Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: Insufficient information is available to determine beneficial use support for this waterbody-pollutant combination with the statistical power and confidence required by the Listing Policy. Beneficial use support will be reassessed in a future cycle, if more data are available.
 
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. The readily available data and information is insufficient to determine, with the power and confidence of the Listing Policy, the applicable beneficial use support rating.
 
State Board Review of Regional Board Conclusion and Recommendation:
 
State Board Decision Recommendation:
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 112170, Silver
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 146688
 
Pollutant: Silver
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Dissolved
 
Beneficial 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: Water Board staff assessed San Diego Region NPDES data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 3 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for Silver.
Data Reference: Field, Habitat, Sediment, Toxicity, Water data for the 2020/2022 integrated report in Region 9.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: California Toxics Rule (CTR) lists criterion maximum concentrations to protect aquatic life in freshwater. The criterion in freshwater is hardness dependent for each sample and varies based on the ambient hardness during sampling. Section (b)(1) in CTR contains the hardness dependent formula for the metals criterion.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Standards 2000. Establishment of numeric criteria for priority toxic pollutants for the State of California: Rules and regulations. Federal Register Vol. 65, No. 97. Washington, D.C.: Environmental Protection Agency
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site (TJR-MLS)
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2014-02-13 and 2014-05-08
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: County of San Diego - Dept of Public Works. 2008. Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight. ., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2014. Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program., Wood. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load
 
 
DECISION ID
125511
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
Pollutant: Total Dissolved Solids
Final Listing Decision: Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: New Decision
Revision Status Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: Insufficient information is available to determine beneficial use support for this waterbody-pollutant combination with the statistical power and confidence required by the Listing Policy. Beneficial use support will be reassessed in a future cycle, if more data are available.
 
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. The readily available data and information is insufficient to determine, with the power and confidence of the Listing Policy, the applicable beneficial use support rating.
 
State Board Review of Regional Board Conclusion and Recommendation:
 
State Board Decision Recommendation:
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 125511, Total Dissolved Solids
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 215103
 
Pollutant: Total Dissolved Solids
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Municipal & Domestic Supply
 
Number of Samples: 10
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed San Diego Region NPDES data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 10 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for total dissolved solids.
Data Reference: Field, Habitat, Sediment, Toxicity, Water data for the 2020/2022 integrated report in Region 9.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Total Dissolved Solids objective in this HSA is 2100 mg/L, and this concentration is not to be exceeded more than 10% of the time during any one year period (Basin Plan, Table 3-2).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monioring site (TJR-MLS)
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 10/6/2011 and 5/8/2014
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: County of San Diego - Dept of Public Works. 2008. Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight. ., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2014. Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program., Wood. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load
 
 
DECISION ID
112173
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
Pollutant: Zinc
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)(2018)
Revision Status Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: This pollutant is being considered for placement on the CWA section 303(d) List under sections 3.1 and 3.6 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.1 a single line of evidence is necessary, and under section 3.6 at least two lines of evidence are necessary to assess listing status for pollutants in sediment, and pollutant concentrations in sediment must be associated with sediment toxicity to justify adding that pollutant to the CWA section 303(d) List.

Three lines of evidence are available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. Zero of the 27 samples exceed the water quality threshold for the WARM/COLD beneficial use. Zero of one sediment sample exceeds the water quality threshold for sediment; this sample size is not sufficient to determine beneficial use support with the power and confidence of the Listing Policy.

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 27 samples exceeded the threshold, and this does not exceed the allowable frequency listed in Table 3.1 of the Listing Policy.
4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.
 
Regional Board Decision Recommendation: After review of the available data and information, RWQCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should not be placed on the section 303(d) list because applicable water quality standards are not being exceeded.
 
State Board Review of Regional Board Conclusion and Recommendation:
 
State Board Decision Recommendation: After review of this Regional Board decision, SWRCB staff recommend the decision be approved by the State Board.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 112173, Zinc
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 148070
 
Pollutant: Zinc
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 10
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed San Diego Region NPDES data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 10 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for Zinc.
Data Reference: Field, Habitat, Sediment, Toxicity, Water data for the 2020/2022 integrated report in Region 9.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: California Toxics Rule (CTR) lists criterion continuous concentrations to protect aquatic life in freshwater. The criterion in freshwater is hardness dependent for each sample and varies based on the ambient hardness during sampling. Section (b)(1) in CTR contains the hardness dependent formula for the metals criterion.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Standards 2000. Establishment of numeric criteria for priority toxic pollutants for the State of California: Rules and regulations. Federal Register Vol. 65, No. 97. Washington, D.C.: Environmental Protection Agency
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site (TJR-MLS)
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2011-10-06 and 2014-05-08
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: County of San Diego - Dept of Public Works. 2008. Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight. ., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2014. Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program., Wood. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 112173, Zinc
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 76814
 
Pollutant: Zinc
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 17
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: State Water Board staff assessed County of San Diego NDPES data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 17 samples exceed the criterion for Zinc.
Data Reference: Data for Various Pollutants from the County of San Diego Department of Public Works Watershed Protection Program, 2001-2008.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: California Toxics Rule (CTR) lists criterion continuous concentrations for dissolved Zinc to protect aquatic life in freshwater. The dissolved Zinc criterion in freshwater is hardness dependent for each sample and varies based on the ambient hardness during sampling. Section (b)(1) in CTR contains the hardness dependent formula for the metals criterion.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Code of Federal Regulations 40 part 131.38 Establishment of numeric criteria for priority toxic pollutants for the State of California. 7/1/2011 Edition
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Tijuana River was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Tijuana River - 911TJR-MLS]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 1/29/2002-12/16/2008.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: The Quality Assurance Project Plan from Weston, the Regional Monitoring Workgroup Urban Runoff Monitoring Final Report Methods Sections and Statements of Work, and Weston Solutions Inc. Desk Reference for Quality Control Of Work Products was followed.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Weston, The Regional Monitoring Workgroup Urban Runoff Monitoring Final Report Methods Sections and Statements of Work, and Weston Solutions Inc. Desk Reference for Quality Control Of Work Products.
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 112173, Zinc
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 76813
 
Pollutant: Zinc
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Sediment
Matrix: Sediment
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Preservation of Rare & Endangered Species
 
Number of Samples: 1
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed SWAMP data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 1 samples exceed the criterion for Zinc.
Data Reference: Statewide Stream Pollution Trends Study 2008
 
SWAMP Data: SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin (SDRWQCB 2007): 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.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: In freshwater sediments the probable effect concentration (predictive of sediment toxicity for sediment-dwelling organisms) for Zinc is 459 mg/Kg dry weight (MacDonald et al. 2000).
Guideline Reference: Development and evaluation of consensus-based sediment quality guidelines for freshwater ecosystems. Environmental Contamination and Toxicology. 39: 20-31
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Tijuana River was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Tijuana River at Hollister Rd - 911TJHRxx]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected on a single day 5/22/2008.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: SWAMP data collected before September 2008 followed the 2002 QAMP.
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
112167
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
Pollutant: pH
Final Listing Decision: Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: New Decision
Revision Status Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: 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. Five line(s) of evidence are available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. Two of the 53 samples exceed the water quality threshold. 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 53 samples exceeded the water quality threshold, 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:
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 112167, pH
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 145790
 
Pollutant: pH
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 11
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed San Diego Coastkeeper Ambient Monitoring Program data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 11 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for pH.
Data Reference: Water data for the 2020/2022 integrated report in Region 9.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: In inland surface waters the pH shall not be depressed below 6.5 nor raised above 8.5.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site (TJN-040)
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2011-01-15 and 2015-02-21
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: San Diego Coastkeeper. 2010. San Diego Regional Water Quality Assessment and Outreach Project Quality Assurance Project Plan.
QAPP Information Reference(s): San Diego Regional Water Quality Assessment and Outreach Project Quality Assurance Project Plan
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 112167, pH
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 145090
 
Pollutant: pH
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 11
Number of Exceedances: 1
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed San Diego Region NPDES data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 1 of 11 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for pH.
Data Reference: Field, Habitat, Sediment, Toxicity, Water data for the 2020/2022 integrated report in Region 9.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: In inland surface waters the pH shall not be depressed below 6.5 nor raised above 8.5.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site (TJR-MLS)
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2011-10-06 and 2017-03-29
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: County of San Diego - Dept of Public Works. 2008. Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight. ., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2014. Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program., Wood. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 112167, pH
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 145733
 
Pollutant: pH
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 14
Number of Exceedances: 1
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed San Diego Coastkeeper Ambient Monitoring Program data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 1 of 14 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for pH.
Data Reference: Water data for the 2020/2022 integrated report in Region 9.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: In inland surface waters the pH shall not be depressed below 6.5 nor raised above 8.5.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site (TJN-060)
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2010-10-23 and 2015-05-16
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: San Diego Coastkeeper. 2010. San Diego Regional Water Quality Assessment and Outreach Project Quality Assurance Project Plan.
QAPP Information Reference(s): San Diego Regional Water Quality Assessment and Outreach Project Quality Assurance Project Plan
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 112167, pH
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 145771
 
Pollutant: pH
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 13
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed San Diego Coastkeeper Ambient Monitoring Program data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 13 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for pH.
Data Reference: Water data for the 2020/2022 integrated report in Region 9.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: In inland surface waters the pH shall not be depressed below 6.5 nor raised above 8.5.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site (TJN-050)
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2010-10-23 and 2015-05-16
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: San Diego Coastkeeper. 2010. San Diego Regional Water Quality Assessment and Outreach Project Quality Assurance Project Plan.
QAPP Information Reference(s): San Diego Regional Water Quality Assessment and Outreach Project Quality Assurance Project Plan
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 112167, pH
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 145087
 
Pollutant: pH
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 4
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed SWAMP RWB9 Monitoring data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 4 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for pH.
Data Reference: Field, Habitat, Sediment, Tissue, Water data for the 2020/2022 integrated report in Region 9.
 
SWAMP Data: SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: In inland surface waters the pH shall not be depressed below 6.5 nor raised above 8.5.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site (911TTJR06)
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2010-11-04 and 2011-09-29
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: SWAMP QAPrP 2008, Nagoda and Busse, 2013. Quality Assurance Project Plan for Screening of Cyanotoxins in Lakes/Reservoirs and Coastal Wetlands in the San Diego Region, SWAMP QAPrP 2017
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Program Plans, Quality Assurance Project Plans, and Standard Operating Procedures for the SWAMP program
 
 
DECISION ID
127820
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
Pollutant: Ammonia
Final Listing Decision: List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: New Decision
Revision Status Revised
Sources: A Source Unknown
Expected TMDL Completion Date: 2033
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. Twenty-six of the 30 samples exceed the water quality threshold.

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-six of the 30 samples exceed the water quality threshold, and this exceeds the allowable frequency listed in Table 3.1 of the Listing Policy.
4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are 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:
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 127820, Ammonia
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 185299
 
Pollutant: Nitrogen, ammonia (Total Ammonia)
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 3
Number of Exceedances: 3
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed San Diego Region NPDES data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 3 of 3 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for Ammonia as N.
Data Reference: Field, Habitat, Sediment, Toxicity, Water data for the 2020/2022 integrated report in Region 9.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Total Ammonia criterion continuous concentration (expressed as a 30-day average) to protect aquatic life in freshwater is Temperature and pH dependent, and was calculated according to the formula listed in the Aquatic Life Ambient Water Quality Criteria for Ammonia - Freshwater 2013 document.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Aquatic Life Ambient Water Quality Criteria for Ammonia - Freshwater 2013
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site (TJR-MLS)
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2011-10-06 and 2017-03-29
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: County of San Diego - Dept of Public Works. 2008. Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight. ., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2014. Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program., Wood. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 127820, Ammonia
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 185238
 
Pollutant: Nitrogen, ammonia (Total Ammonia)
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 7
Number of Exceedances: 6
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed San Diego Coastkeeper Ambient Monitoring Program data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 6 of 7 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for Ammonia as N.
Data Reference: Water data for the 2020/2022 integrated report in Region 9.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Total Ammonia criterion continuous concentration (expressed as a 30-day average) to protect aquatic life in freshwater is Temperature and pH dependent, and was calculated according to the formula listed in the Aquatic Life Ambient Water Quality Criteria for Ammonia - Freshwater 2013 document.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Aquatic Life Ambient Water Quality Criteria for Ammonia - Freshwater 2013
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site (TJN-040)
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2011-02-12 and 2015-02-21
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: San Diego Coastkeeper. 2010. San Diego Regional Water Quality Assessment and Outreach Project Quality Assurance Project Plan.
QAPP Information Reference(s): San Diego Regional Water Quality Assessment and Outreach Project Quality Assurance Project Plan
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 127820, Ammonia
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 185171
 
Pollutant: Nitrogen, ammonia (Total Ammonia)
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 10
Number of Exceedances: 9
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed San Diego Coastkeeper Ambient Monitoring Program data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 9 of 10 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for Ammonia as N.
Data Reference: Water data for the 2020/2022 integrated report in Region 9.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Total Ammonia criterion continuous concentration (expressed as a 30-day average) to protect aquatic life in freshwater is Temperature and pH dependent, and was calculated according to the formula listed in the Aquatic Life Ambient Water Quality Criteria for Ammonia - Freshwater 2013 document.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Aquatic Life Ambient Water Quality Criteria for Ammonia - Freshwater 2013
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site (TJN-060)
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2010-10-23 and 2015-05-16
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: San Diego Coastkeeper. 2010. San Diego Regional Water Quality Assessment and Outreach Project Quality Assurance Project Plan.
QAPP Information Reference(s): San Diego Regional Water Quality Assessment and Outreach Project Quality Assurance Project Plan
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 127820, Ammonia
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 185175
 
Pollutant: Nitrogen, ammonia (Total Ammonia)
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 10
Number of Exceedances: 8
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed San Diego Coastkeeper Ambient Monitoring Program data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 8 of 10 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for Ammonia as N.
Data Reference: Water data for the 2020/2022 integrated report in Region 9.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Total Ammonia criterion continuous concentration (expressed as a 30-day average) to protect aquatic life in freshwater is Temperature and pH dependent, and was calculated according to the formula listed in the Aquatic Life Ambient Water Quality Criteria for Ammonia - Freshwater 2013 document.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Aquatic Life Ambient Water Quality Criteria for Ammonia - Freshwater 2013
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site (TJN-050)
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2010-10-23 and 2015-05-16
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: San Diego Coastkeeper. 2010. San Diego Regional Water Quality Assessment and Outreach Project Quality Assurance Project Plan.
QAPP Information Reference(s): San Diego Regional Water Quality Assessment and Outreach Project Quality Assurance Project Plan
 
 
DECISION ID
115522
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
Pollutant: Ammonia (Unionized)
Final Listing Decision: List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: New Decision
Revision Status Revised
Sources: Wastewater
Expected TMDL Completion Date: 2033
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.

Six lines of evidence are available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. Forty-one of the 54 samples exceed the WARM beneficial use threshold.

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. Forty-one of the 54 samples exceed the threshold, and this exceeds the allowable frequency listed in Table 3.1 of the Listing Policy.
4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are 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:
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 115522, Ammonia (Unionized)
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 185592
 
Pollutant: Ammonia (Unionized)
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 11
Number of Exceedances: 6
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed San Diego Coastkeeper Ambient Monitoring Program data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 6 of 11 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for Ammonia as N, Unionized.
Data Reference: Water data for the 2020/2022 integrated report in Region 9.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The discharge of wastes shall not cause concentrations of un-ionized ammonia (NH3) to exceed 0.025 mg/l (as N) in inland surface waters, enclosed bays and estuaries and coastal lagoons (Water Quality Control Plan, San Diego Basin).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site (TJN-040)
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2011-01-15 and 2015-02-21
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: San Diego Coastkeeper. 2010. San Diego Regional Water Quality Assessment and Outreach Project Quality Assurance Project Plan.
QAPP Information Reference(s): San Diego Regional Water Quality Assessment and Outreach Project Quality Assurance Project Plan
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 115522, Ammonia (Unionized)
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 185462
 
Pollutant: Ammonia (Unionized)
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 3
Number of Exceedances: 3
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed San Diego Region NPDES data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 3 of 3 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for Ammonia as N, Unionized.
Data Reference: Field, Habitat, Sediment, Toxicity, Water data for the 2020/2022 integrated report in Region 9.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The discharge of wastes shall not cause concentrations of un-ionized ammonia (NH3) to exceed 0.025 mg/l (as N) in inland surface waters, enclosed bays and estuaries and coastal lagoons (Water Quality Control Plan, San Diego Basin).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site (TJR-MLS)
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2011-10-06 and 2017-03-29
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: County of San Diego - Dept of Public Works. 2008. Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight. ., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2014. Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program., Wood. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 115522, Ammonia (Unionized)
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 7380
 
Pollutant: Ammonia as Nitrogen
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 2
Number of Exceedances: 2
 
Data and Information Type: Fixed station physical/chemical monitoring (conventional pollutants only)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Two of two samples exceed the water quality objective according to results in the Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program Report, 2007. Tijuana River 5 monitoring station was sampled on April 10, 2006 and May 31, 2005.
Data Reference: Monitoring data for Region 9
 
SWAMP Data: SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: From the Basin Plan the WQO for un-ionized ammonia (NH3) for inland surface waters is 0.025mg/L (as N) (RWQCB, 2007).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Samples were collected at the monitoring station Tijuana River 5 on the main stem of the Tijuana River. (Station ID: 911TTJR05; lat/long: 32.55132/-117.08439)
Temporal Representation: Tijuana River 5 monitoring station was sampled on April 10, 2006 and May 31, 2005.
Environmental Conditions: The sampling event in April occurred during high base flow. The May sampling event occurred during declining base flow.
QAPP Information: Quality control for the chemical analysis portion of this study was conducted in accordance with the California's Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program.
QAPP Information Reference(s): 2002. Quality Assurance Management Plan for the State of California's Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program. California Department of Fish and Game, Monterey, CA
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 115522, Ammonia (Unionized)
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 7193
 
Pollutant: Ammonia as Nitrogen
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 12
Number of Exceedances: 10
 
Data and Information Type: Fixed station physical/chemical monitoring (conventional pollutants only)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Ten of twelve samples collected exceed the water quality objective according to results in the San Diego County Municipal Copermittees Annual Progress Report, 2007. Samples were collected two to four times a year from 2002-2006.
Data Reference: Urban Runoff Monitoring, Volume 1- Final Report To request a file review please contact the San Diego Regional Board receptionist. They may be reached by phone at (619) 516-1990, by email at rb9_records@waterboards.ca.gov, by fax at (619) 516-1994, or mail your request to: California Regional Water Quality Control Board Attention: File Review Request 2375 Northside Drive, Suite 100 San Diego, CA 92108 The ECM document handle is #2733059
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: From the Basin Plan the WQO for un-ionized ammonia (NH3) for inland surface waters is 0.025mg/L (as N) (RWQCB, 2007).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Samples were collected at the mass loading station located near the lower boundary of the watershed under the Hollister Street Bridge in San Diego, downstream from the International Boundary and Water Commission¿s diversion structure and treatment plant.
Temporal Representation: Samples were collected two to four times a year from 2002-2006.
Environmental Conditions: Samples were collected during wet weather.
QAPP Information: QA/QC conducted according to Federal Regulations under requirements of a NPDES permit.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 115522, Ammonia (Unionized)
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 185533
 
Pollutant: Ammonia (Unionized)
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 13
Number of Exceedances: 9
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed San Diego Coastkeeper Ambient Monitoring Program data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 9 of 13 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for Ammonia as N, Unionized.
Data Reference: Water data for the 2020/2022 integrated report in Region 9.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The discharge of wastes shall not cause concentrations of un-ionized ammonia (NH3) to exceed 0.025 mg/l (as N) in inland surface waters, enclosed bays and estuaries and coastal lagoons (Water Quality Control Plan, San Diego Basin).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site (TJN-050)
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2010-10-23 and 2015-05-16
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: San Diego Coastkeeper. 2010. San Diego Regional Water Quality Assessment and Outreach Project Quality Assurance Project Plan.
QAPP Information Reference(s): San Diego Regional Water Quality Assessment and Outreach Project Quality Assurance Project Plan
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 115522, Ammonia (Unionized)
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 185328
 
Pollutant: Ammonia (Unionized)
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 13
Number of Exceedances: 11
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed San Diego Coastkeeper Ambient Monitoring Program data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 11 of 13 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for Ammonia as N, Unionized.
Data Reference: Water data for the 2020/2022 integrated report in Region 9.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The discharge of wastes shall not cause concentrations of un-ionized ammonia (NH3) to exceed 0.025 mg/l (as N) in inland surface waters, enclosed bays and estuaries and coastal lagoons (Water Quality Control Plan, San Diego Basin).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site (TJN-060)
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2010-10-23 and 2015-05-16
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: San Diego Coastkeeper. 2010. San Diego Regional Water Quality Assessment and Outreach Project Quality Assurance Project Plan.
QAPP Information Reference(s): San Diego Regional Water Quality Assessment and Outreach Project Quality Assurance Project Plan
 
 
DECISION ID
112175
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
Pollutant: Bifenthrin
Final Listing Decision: 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)(2018)
Revision Status Revised
Sources: A Source Unknown
Expected TMDL Completion Date: 2033
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: This pollutant is being considered for placement on the CWA section 303(d) List under sections 3.1 and 3.6 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.1, at least one line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status. Under section 3.6, at least two lines of evidence are necessary to assess listing status for pollutants in sediment, and pollutant concentrations in sediment must be associated with sediment toxicity to justify adding that pollutant to the CWA section 303(d) List.

Four lines of evidence are available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. Six of seven samples exceed the water quality threshold in water. Zero of three samples exceed the quality threshold in sediment, but this sample size is insufficient to determine beneficial use support with the statistical power and confidence of the Listing Policy.

Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is sufficient justification for 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 seven samples exceed the water quality threshold in water, and this exceeds the allowable frequency listed in Table 3.1 of the Listing Policy.
4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are 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 112175, Bifenthrin
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 227754
 
Pollutant: Bifenthrin
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 1
Number of Exceedances: 1
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed County of San Diego data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 1 of 1 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for Bifenthrin.
Data Reference: Data for Various Pollutants from the County of San Diego Department of Public Works Watershed Protection Program, 2001-2008.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: All waters shall be maintained free of toxic substances in concentrations that are toxic to, or produce detrimental physiological responses in, human, plant, animal, or aquatic life (Water Quality Control Plan, San Diego Basin).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: The chronic concentration goal for Bifenthrin is 0.1 ng/L (expressed as a 4-day average).  If the freely dissolved concentrations of Bifenthrin were reported or could be calculated then these values were used for this assessment.  In the absence of freely dissolved concentrations, total concentrations were used.
Guideline Reference: Water Quality Criteria Report for Bifenthrin
Guideline Reference: Amendment to the Water Quality Control Plan for the Sacramento River and San Joaquin River Basins for the Control of Pyrethroid Pesticide Discharges
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site (911TJR-MLS)
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2008-12-16 and 2008-12-16
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: The Quality Assurance Project Plan from Weston, The Regional Monitoring Workgroup Urban Runoff Monitoring Final Report Methods Sections and Statements of Work, and Weston Solutions Inc. Desk Reference for Quality Control Of Work Products.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Weston, The Regional Monitoring Workgroup Urban Runoff Monitoring Final Report Methods Sections and Statements of Work, and Weston Solutions Inc. Desk Reference for Quality Control Of Work Products.
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 112175, Bifenthrin
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 76835
 
Pollutant: Bifenthrin
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Sediment
Matrix: Sediment
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Preservation of Rare & Endangered Species
 
Number of Samples: 1
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed SWAMP data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 1 samples exceed the criterion for Bifenthrin.
Data Reference: Statewide Stream Pollution Trends Study 2008
 
SWAMP Data: SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin (SDRWQCB 2007): 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.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: The evaluation guideline for bifenthrin is the median lethal concentration (LC50) of 0.43 ug/g and is normalized by the percentage of organic carbon in the sediment sample. The LC50 0.43 ug/g is the geometric mean of LC50 values for bifenthrin from Amweg et al. (2005) and Amweg and Weston (2007).
Guideline Reference: Use and Toxicity of Pyrethroid Pesticides in the Central Valley, California, USA. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry, 24:966-972, with erratum 24:No. 5
Guideline Reference: Whole-sediment toxicity identification evaluation tools for pyrethroid insecticides: I. piperonyl butoxide addition. Environ. Toxicol. Chem. 26:2389-2396.
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Tijuana River was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Tijuana River at Hollister Rd - 911TJHRxx]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected on a single day 5/22/2008.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: SWAMP data collected before September 2008 followed the QAMP 2002.
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 112175, Bifenthrin
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 135506
 
Pollutant: Bifenthrin
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Sediment
Matrix: Sediment
Fraction: Total
 
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: Water Board staff assessed San Diego Region NPDES data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and the results are as follows: 0 of the 2 samples exceeded the evaluation guideline for Bifenthrin .
Data Reference: Field, Habitat, Sediment, Toxicity, Water data for the 2020/2022 integrated report in Region 9.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: All waters shall be maintained free of toxic substances in concentrations that are toxic to, or that produce detrimental physiological responses in human, plant, animal, or aquatic life (Water Quality Control Plan, San Diego Basin).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: The evaluation guideline for bifenthrin is the median lethal concentration (LC50) of 0.43 ug/g and is normalized by the percentage of organic carbon in the sediment sample. The LC50 0.43 ug/g is the geometric mean of LC50 values for bifenthrin from Amweg et al. (2005) and Amweg and Weston (2007).
Guideline Reference: Use and Toxicity of Pyrethroid Pesticides in the Central Valley, California, USA. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry, 24:966-972, with erratum 24:No. 5
Guideline Reference: Whole-sediment toxicity identification evaluation tools for pyrethroid insecticides: I. piperonyl butoxide addition. Environ. Toxicol. Chem. 26:2389-2396.
 
Spatial Representation: Data were collected from 1 station(s). Station Code(s): TJR-MLS.
Temporal Representation: Data for this waterbody were collected over the date range 2011-10-11 to 2013-10-15
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: County of San Diego - Dept of Public Works. 2008. Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight. ., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2014. Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program., Wood. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 112175, Bifenthrin
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 140473
 
Pollutant: Bifenthrin
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 0
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed San Diego Region NPDES data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support, and the results are as follows: 0 of the 0 samples exceeded the evaluation guideline for Bifenthrin. Although a total of 2 samples were collected, 2 of these samples were not included in the assessment because the laboratory data reporting limit(s) was above the water quality threshold and therefore the results could not be quantified with the level of certainty required by the Listing Policy Section 6.1.5.5.
Data Reference: Field, Habitat, Sediment, Toxicity, Water data for the 2020/2022 integrated report in Region 9.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: All waters shall be maintained free of toxic substances in concentrations that are toxic to, or produce detrimental physiological responses in, human, plant, animal, or aquatic life (Water Quality Control Plan, San Diego Basin).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: The chronic concentration goal for Bifenthrin is 0.1 ng/L (expressed as a 4-day average).  If the freely dissolved concentrations of Bifenthrin were reported or could be calculated then these values were used for this assessment.  In the absence of freely dissolved concentrations, total concentrations were used.
Guideline Reference: Water Quality Criteria Report for Bifenthrin
Guideline Reference: Amendment to the Water Quality Control Plan for the Sacramento River and San Joaquin River Basins for the Control of Pyrethroid Pesticide Discharges
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site (TJR-MLS).
Temporal Representation: Date for this waterbody was collected over the date range 2014-03-01 to 2014-03-11
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: County of San Diego - Dept of Public Works. 2008. Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight. ., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2014. Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program., Wood. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 112175, Bifenthrin
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 140522
 
Pollutant: Bifenthrin
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 6
Number of Exceedances: 5
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed San Diego Region NPDES data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 5 of 6 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for Bifenthrin.
Data Reference: Field, Habitat, Sediment, Toxicity, Water data for the 2020/2022 integrated report in Region 9.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: All waters shall be maintained free of toxic substances in concentrations that are toxic to, or produce detrimental physiological responses in, human, plant, animal, or aquatic life (Water Quality Control Plan, San Diego Basin).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: The chronic concentration goal for Bifenthrin is 0.1 ng/L (expressed as a 4-day average).  If the freely dissolved concentrations of Bifenthrin were reported or could be calculated then these values were used for this assessment.  In the absence of freely dissolved concentrations, total concentrations were used.
Guideline Reference: Water Quality Criteria Report for Bifenthrin
Guideline Reference: Amendment to the Water Quality Control Plan for the Sacramento River and San Joaquin River Basins for the Control of Pyrethroid Pesticide Discharges
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site (TJR-MLS)
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2011-10-06 and 2014-05-08
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: County of San Diego - Dept of Public Works. 2008. Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight. ., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2014. Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program., Wood. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load
 
 
DECISION ID
125510
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
Pollutant: Color
Final Listing Decision: List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: New Decision
Revision Status Revised
Sources: A Source Unknown
Expected TMDL Completion Date: 2033
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. Five of the six samples exceed the water quality threshold.

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. Five of the six samples exceed the water quality threshold, 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:
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 125510, Color
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 215195
 
Pollutant: Color
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Not Recorded
 
Beneficial Use: Municipal & Domestic Supply
 
Number of Samples: 6
Number of Exceedances: 5
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed San Diego Region NPDES data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 5 of 6 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for color.
Data Reference: Field, Habitat, Sediment, Toxicity, Water data for the 2020/2022 integrated report in Region 9.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Color objective in this HSA is 20 Color Units, and this objective is not to be exceeded more than 10% of the time during any one year period (Basin Plan, Table 3-2).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site (TJR-MLS).
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 10/10/2013 and 5/8/2014.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: County of San Diego - Dept of Public Works. 2008. Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight. ., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2014. Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program., Wood. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load
 
 
DECISION ID
112176
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
Pollutant: Cypermethrin
Final Listing Decision: 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)(2018)
Revision Status Revised
Sources: A Source Unknown
Expected TMDL Completion Date: 2033
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: This pollutant is being considered for placement on the CWA section 303(d) List under sections 3.1 and 3.6 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.1 a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status; under section 3.6 at least two lines of evidence are necessary to assess listing status for pollutants in sediment, and pollutant concentrations in sediment must be associated with sediment toxicity to justify adding that pollutant to the CWA section 303(d) List.

Four lines of evidence are available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. Seven of seven samples exceed the water quality threshold in water. Zero of three samples exceed the water quality threshold in sediment, but this sample size is insufficient to determine beneficial use support with the statistical power and confidence of the Listing Policy.

Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is sufficient justification for 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. Seven of seven samples exceed the water quality threshold in water, and this exceeds the allowable frequency listed in Table 3.1 of the Listing Policy.
4. Pursuant to Section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are 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. The readily available data and information is insufficient to determine, with the power and confidence of the Listing Policy, the applicable beneficial use support rating.
 
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 112176, Cypermethrin
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 141873
 
Pollutant: Cypermethrin
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 6
Number of Exceedances: 6
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed San Diego Region NPDES data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 6 of 6 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for Cypermethrin.
Data Reference: Field, Habitat, Sediment, Toxicity, Water data for the 2020/2022 integrated report in Region 9.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: All waters shall be maintained free of toxic substances in concentrations that are toxic to, or produce detrimental physiological responses in, human, plant, animal, or aquatic life (Water Quality Control Plan, San Diego Basin).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: The chronic concentration goal for Cypermethrin is 0.3 ng/L (expressed as a 4-day average).  If the freely dissolved concentrations of Cypermethrin were reported or could be calculated then these values were used for this assessment.  In the absence of freely dissolved concentrations, total concentrations were used.
Guideline Reference: Water Quality Criteria Report for Cypermethrin
Guideline Reference: Amendment to the Water Quality Control Plan for the Sacramento River and San Joaquin River Basins for the Control of Pyrethroid Pesticide Discharges
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site (TJR-MLS)
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2011-10-06 and 2014-05-08
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: County of San Diego - Dept of Public Works. 2008. Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight. ., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2014. Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program., Wood. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 112176, Cypermethrin
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 227761
 
Pollutant: Cypermethrin
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 1
Number of Exceedances: 1
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed County of San Diego data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 1 of 1 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for Cypermethrin.
Data Reference: Data for Various Pollutants from the County of San Diego Department of Public Works Watershed Protection Program, 2001-2008.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: All waters shall be maintained free of toxic substances in concentrations that are toxic to, or produce detrimental physiological responses in, human, plant, animal, or aquatic life (Water Quality Control Plan, San Diego Basin).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: The chronic concentration goal for Cypermethrin is 0.3 ng/L (expressed as a 4-day average).  If the freely dissolved concentrations of Cypermethrin were reported or could be calculated then these values were used for this assessment.  In the absence of freely dissolved concentrations, total concentrations were used.
Guideline Reference: Water Quality Criteria Report for Cypermethrin
Guideline Reference: Amendment to the Water Quality Control Plan for the Sacramento River and San Joaquin River Basins for the Control of Pyrethroid Pesticide Discharges
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site (911TJR-MLS)
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2008-12-16 and 2008-12-16
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: The Quality Assurance Project Plan from Weston, The Regional Monitoring Workgroup Urban Runoff Monitoring Final Report Methods Sections and Statements of Work, and Weston Solutions Inc. Desk Reference for Quality Control Of Work Products.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Weston, The Regional Monitoring Workgroup Urban Runoff Monitoring Final Report Methods Sections and Statements of Work, and Weston Solutions Inc. Desk Reference for Quality Control Of Work Products.
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 112176, Cypermethrin
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 77924
 
Pollutant: Cypermethrin
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Sediment
Matrix: Sediment
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Preservation of Rare & Endangered Species
 
Number of Samples: 1
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed SWAMP data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 1 samples exceed the criterion for Cypermethrin, total.
Data Reference: Statewide Stream Pollution Trends Study 2008
 
SWAMP Data: SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin (SDRWQCB 2007): 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.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: The evaluation guideline for cypermethrin is the median lethal concentration (LC50) of 0.3 ug/g and is normalized by the percentage of organic carbon in the sediment sample. The LC50 0.3 ug/g is the geometric mean of LC50 values for cypermethrin from Maund et al. (2002).
Guideline Reference: Partitioning, bioavailability, and toxicity of the pyrethroid insecticide cypermethrin in sediments. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry 21:9-15
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Tijuana River was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Tijuana River at Hollister Rd - 911TJHRxx]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected on a single day 5/22/2008.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: SWAMP data collected before September 2008 followed the QAMP 2002.
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 112176, Cypermethrin
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 142225
 
Pollutant: Cypermethrin
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 0
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed San Diego Region NPDES data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support, and the results are as follows: 0 of the 0 samples exceeded the evaluation guideline for Cypermethrin. Although a total of 2 samples were collected, 2 of these samples were not included in the assessment because the laboratory data reporting limit(s) was above the water quality threshold and therefore the results could not be quantified with the level of certainty required by the Listing Policy Section 6.1.5.5.
Data Reference: Field, Habitat, Sediment, Toxicity, Water data for the 2020/2022 integrated report in Region 9.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: All waters shall be maintained free of toxic substances in concentrations that are toxic to, or produce detrimental physiological responses in, human, plant, animal, or aquatic life (Water Quality Control Plan, San Diego Basin).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: The chronic concentration goal for Cypermethrin is 0.3 ng/L (expressed as a 4-day average).  If the freely dissolved concentrations of Cypermethrin were reported or could be calculated then these values were used for this assessment.  In the absence of freely dissolved concentrations, total concentrations were used.
Guideline Reference: Water Quality Criteria Report for Cypermethrin
Guideline Reference: Amendment to the Water Quality Control Plan for the Sacramento River and San Joaquin River Basins for the Control of Pyrethroid Pesticide Discharges
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site (TJR-MLS).
Temporal Representation: Date for this waterbody was collected over the date range 2014-03-01 to 2014-03-11
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: County of San Diego - Dept of Public Works. 2008. Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight. ., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2014. Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program., Wood. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 112176, Cypermethrin
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 136856
 
Pollutant: Cypermethrin
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Sediment
Matrix: Sediment
Fraction: Total
 
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: Water Board staff assessed San Diego Region NPDES data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and the results are as follows: 0 of the 2 samples exceeded the evaluation guideline for Cypermethrin, Total .
Data Reference: Field, Habitat, Sediment, Toxicity, Water data for the 2020/2022 integrated report in Region 9.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: All waters shall be maintained free of toxic substances in concentrations that are toxic to, or that produce detrimental physiological responses in human, plant, animal, or aquatic life (Water Quality Control Plan, San Diego Basin).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: The evaluation guideline for cypermethrin is the median lethal concentration (LC50) of 0.3 ug/g and is normalized by the percentage of organic carbon in the sediment sample. The LC50 0.3 ug/g is the geometric mean of LC50 values for cypermethrin from Maund et al. (2002).
Guideline Reference: Partitioning, bioavailability, and toxicity of the pyrethroid insecticide cypermethrin in sediments. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry 21:9-15
 
Spatial Representation: Data were collected from 1 station(s). Station Code(s): TJR-MLS.
Temporal Representation: Data for this waterbody were collected over the date range 2011-10-11 to 2013-10-15
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: County of San Diego - Dept of Public Works. 2008. Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight. ., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2014. Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program., Wood. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load
 
 
DECISION ID
112161
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
Pollutant: Dichlorvos
Final Listing Decision: List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: New Decision
Revision Status Revised
Sources: A Source Unknown
Expected TMDL Completion Date: 2033
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.

One lines of evidence are available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. Seven of the seven samples exceed the water quality threshold.

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. Seven of seven samples exceed the threshold and this exceeds the allowable frequency listed in Table 3.1 of the Listing Policy.
4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are 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:
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 112161, Dichlorvos
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 142457
 
Pollutant: Dichlorvos
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 7
Number of Exceedances: 7
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed San Diego Region NPDES data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and the results are as follows: 7 of the 7 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for Dichlorvos. Although a total of 10 samples were collected, 3 of these samples were not included in the assessment because the laboratory data reporting limit(s) was above the water quality threshold and therefore the results could not be quantified with the level of certainty required by the Listing Policy Section 6.1.5.5.
Data Reference: Field, Habitat, Sediment, Toxicity, Water data for the 2020/2022 integrated report in Region 9.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: All waters shall be maintained free of toxic substances in concentrations that are toxic to, or that produce detrimental physiological responses in human, plant, animal, or aquatic life (Water Quality Control Plan, San Diego Basin).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: The evaluation guideline for Dichlorvos is the USEPA Aquatic Life Benchmark of 0.0058 ug/L for a invertebrate (acute).
Guideline Reference: OPP Aquatic Life Benchmarks
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site (TJR-MLS).
Temporal Representation: Data for this waterbody was collected over the date range 2011-10-06 to 2014-05-08
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: County of San Diego - Dept of Public Works. 2008. Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight. ., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2014. Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program., Wood. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load
 
 
DECISION ID
127520
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
Pollutant: Nitrogen
Final Listing Decision: List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: New Decision
Revision Status Revised
Sources: A Source Unknown
Expected TMDL Completion Date: 2033
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.

Six lines of evidence are available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. Seventy-one of the 76 samples exceed the water quality threshold.

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. Seventy-one of the 76 samples exceed the water quality threshold, and this exceeds the allowable frequency listed in Table 3.1 of the Listing Policy.
4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are 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:
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 127520, Nitrogen
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 7384
 
Pollutant: Total Nitrogen as N
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 2
Number of Exceedances: 2
 
Data and Information Type: Fixed station physical/chemical monitoring (conventional pollutants only)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Two of two samples exceed the water quality objective according to reuslts in the Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program Report, 2007. The Tijuana River 5 monitoring station was sampled on May 31, 2005 and April 10, 2006.
Data Reference: Monitoring data for Region 9
 
SWAMP Data: SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water bodies shall not contain biostimulatory substances in concentrations that promote aquatic growth to the extent that such growths cause nuisance or adversely affect beneficial uses. (RWQCB, 2007)
A desired goal in order to prevent plant nuisance in streams and other flowing waters appears to be 0.1 mg/L total phosphorus, P. These values are not to be exceeded more than 10% of the time unless studies of the specific water body in question clearly show that water quality objective changes are permissible and changes are approved by the Regional Board. Analogous threshold values have not been set for nitrogen compounds; however, natural ratios of nitrogen to phosphorus are to be determined by surveillance and monitoring and upheld. If data are lacking, a ratio of N:P = 10:1, on a weight to weight basis shall be used. (RWQCB, 2007)
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Spatial Representation: Samples were collected from the monitoring station Tijuana River 5 (station id: 911TTJR05 lat/long: 32.55132/-117.08439), located on the main stem of the Tijuana River.
Temporal Representation: The Tijuana River 5 monitoring station was sampled on May 31, 2005 and April 10, 2006.
Environmental Conditions: The sampling event in April occurred during high base flow. The May sampling event occurred during declining base flow.
QAPP Information: Quality control for the chemical analysis portion of this study was conducted in accordance with the California's Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program.
QAPP Information Reference(s): 2002. Quality Assurance Management Plan for the State of California's Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program. California Department of Fish and Game, Monterey, CA
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 127520, Nitrogen
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 7383
 
Pollutant: Total Nitrogen as N
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 15
Number of Exceedances: 15
 
Data and Information Type: Fixed station physical/chemical monitoring (conventional pollutants only)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: All fifteen samples collected exceed the water quality objective according to results in the San Diego County Municipal Copermittees Annual Progress Report, 2007. Samples were collected two to four times a year from 2001-2006.
Data Reference: Urban Runoff Monitoring, Volume 1- Final Report To request a file review please contact the San Diego Regional Board receptionist. They may be reached by phone at (619) 516-1990, by email at rb9_records@waterboards.ca.gov, by fax at (619) 516-1994, or mail your request to: California Regional Water Quality Control Board Attention: File Review Request 2375 Northside Drive, Suite 100 San Diego, CA 92108 The ECM document handle is #2733059
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water bodies shall not contain biostimulatory substances in concentrations that promote aquatic growth to the extent that such growths cause nuisance or adversely affect beneficial uses. (RWQCB, 2007)
A desired goal in order to prevent plant nuisance in streams and other flowing waters appears to be 0.1 mg/L total phosphorus, P. These values are not to be exceeded more than 10% of the time unless studies of the specific water body in question clearly show that water quality objective changes are permissible and changes are approved by the Regional Board. Analogous threshold values have not been set for nitrogen compounds; however, natural ratios of nitrogen to phosphorus are to be determined by surveillance and monitoring and upheld. If data are lacking, a ratio of N:P = 10:1, on a weight to weight basis shall be used. (RWQCB, 2007)
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Spatial Representation: Samples were collected at the mass loading station located near the lower boundary of the watershed under the Hollister Street Bridge in San Diego, downstream from the International Boundary and Water Commission¿s diversion structure and treatment plant.
Temporal Representation: Samples were collected two to four times a year from 2001-2006.
Environmental Conditions: Samples were collected during wet weather.
QAPP Information: QA/QC conducted according to Federal Regulations under requirements of a NPDES permit.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 127520, Nitrogen
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 144154
 
Pollutant: Total Nitrogen as N
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 15
Number of Exceedances: 13
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed San Diego Coastkeeper Ambient Monitoring Program data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 13 of 15 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for Nitrogen, Total.
Data Reference: Water data for the 2020/2022 integrated report in Region 9.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Concentrations of nitrogen and phosphorus, by themselves or in combination with other nutrients, shall be maintained at levels below those which stimulate algae and emergent plant growth. A desired goal in order to prevent plant nuisance in streams and other flowing waters appears to be 0.1 mg/L total P. Analogous threshold values have not been set for nitrogen compounds; however, natural ratios of nitrogen to phosphorus are to be determined by surveillance and monitoring and upheld. If data are lacking, a ratio of N:P = 10:1, on a weight to weight basis shall be used (Water Quality Control Plan, San Diego Basin).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site (TJN-040)
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2010-10-23 and 2015-02-21
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: San Diego Coastkeeper. 2010. San Diego Regional Water Quality Assessment and Outreach Project Quality Assurance Project Plan.
QAPP Information Reference(s): San Diego Regional Water Quality Assessment and Outreach Project Quality Assurance Project Plan
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 127520, Nitrogen
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 144268
 
Pollutant: Total Nitrogen as N
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 17
Number of Exceedances: 16
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed San Diego Coastkeeper Ambient Monitoring Program data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 16 of 17 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for Nitrogen, Total.
Data Reference: Water data for the 2020/2022 integrated report in Region 9.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Concentrations of nitrogen and phosphorus, by themselves or in combination with other nutrients, shall be maintained at levels below those which stimulate algae and emergent plant growth. A desired goal in order to prevent plant nuisance in streams and other flowing waters appears to be 0.1 mg/L total P. Analogous threshold values have not been set for nitrogen compounds; however, natural ratios of nitrogen to phosphorus are to be determined by surveillance and monitoring and upheld. If data are lacking, a ratio of N:P = 10:1, on a weight to weight basis shall be used (Water Quality Control Plan, San Diego Basin).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site (TJN-050)
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2010-10-23 and 2015-05-16
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: San Diego Coastkeeper. 2010. San Diego Regional Water Quality Assessment and Outreach Project Quality Assurance Project Plan.
QAPP Information Reference(s): San Diego Regional Water Quality Assessment and Outreach Project Quality Assurance Project Plan
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 127520, Nitrogen
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 144269
 
Pollutant: Total Nitrogen as N
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 16
Number of Exceedances: 14
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed San Diego Coastkeeper Ambient Monitoring Program data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 14 of 16 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for Nitrogen, Total.
Data Reference: Water data for the 2020/2022 integrated report in Region 9.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Concentrations of nitrogen and phosphorus, by themselves or in combination with other nutrients, shall be maintained at levels below those which stimulate algae and emergent plant growth. A desired goal in order to prevent plant nuisance in streams and other flowing waters appears to be 0.1 mg/L total P. Analogous threshold values have not been set for nitrogen compounds; however, natural ratios of nitrogen to phosphorus are to be determined by surveillance and monitoring and upheld. If data are lacking, a ratio of N:P = 10:1, on a weight to weight basis shall be used (Water Quality Control Plan, San Diego Basin).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site (TJN-060)
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2010-10-23 and 2015-05-16
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: San Diego Coastkeeper. 2010. San Diego Regional Water Quality Assessment and Outreach Project Quality Assurance Project Plan.
QAPP Information Reference(s): San Diego Regional Water Quality Assessment and Outreach Project Quality Assurance Project Plan
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 127520, Nitrogen
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 144118
 
Pollutant: Total Nitrogen as N
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 11
Number of Exceedances: 11
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed San Diego Region NPDES data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 11 of 11 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for Nitrogen, Total.
Data Reference: Field, Habitat, Sediment, Toxicity, Water data for the 2020/2022 integrated report in Region 9.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Concentrations of nitrogen and phosphorus, by themselves or in combination with other nutrients, shall be maintained at levels below those which stimulate algae and emergent plant growth. A desired goal in order to prevent plant nuisance in streams and other flowing waters appears to be 0.1 mg/L total P. Analogous threshold values have not been set for nitrogen compounds; however, natural ratios of nitrogen to phosphorus are to be determined by surveillance and monitoring and upheld. If data are lacking, a ratio of N:P = 10:1, on a weight to weight basis shall be used (Water Quality Control Plan, San Diego Basin).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site (TJR-MLS)
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2011-10-06 and 2017-03-29
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: County of San Diego - Dept of Public Works. 2008. Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight. ., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2014. Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program., Wood. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load
 
 
DECISION ID
112165
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
Pollutant: Oxygen, Dissolved
Final Listing Decision: List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: New Decision
Revision Status Revised
Sources: A Source Unknown
Expected TMDL Completion Date: 2033
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. Seven of the ten samples exceed the threshold.

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. Seven of ten samples exceed the threshold, 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:
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 112165, Oxygen, Dissolved
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 145069
 
Pollutant: Oxygen, Dissolved
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 6
Number of Exceedances: 5
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed San Diego Region NPDES data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 5 of 6 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for Oxygen, Dissolved.
Data Reference: Field, Habitat, Sediment, Toxicity, Water data for the 2020/2022 integrated report in Region 9.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Dissolved oxygen levels shall not be less than 5.0 mg/l in inland surface waters with the WARM beneficial use designated (Water Quality Control Plan, San Diego Basin).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site (TJR-MLS)
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2013-10-10 and 2014-05-07
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: County of San Diego - Dept of Public Works. 2008. Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight. ., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2014. Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program., Wood. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 112165, Oxygen, Dissolved
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 144905
 
Pollutant: Oxygen, Dissolved
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 4
Number of Exceedances: 2
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed SWAMP RWB9 Monitoring data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 2 of 4 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for Oxygen, Dissolved.
Data Reference: Field, Habitat, Sediment, Tissue, Water data for the 2020/2022 integrated report in Region 9.
 
SWAMP Data: SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Dissolved oxygen levels shall not be less than 5.0 mg/l in inland surface waters with the WARM beneficial use designated (Water Quality Control Plan, San Diego Basin).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site (911TTJR06)
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2010-11-04 and 2011-09-29
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: SWAMP QAPrP 2008, Nagoda and Busse, 2013. Quality Assurance Project Plan for Screening of Cyanotoxins in Lakes/Reservoirs and Coastal Wetlands in the San Diego Region, SWAMP QAPrP 2017
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Program Plans, Quality Assurance Project Plans, and Standard Operating Procedures for the SWAMP program
 
 
DECISION ID
130330
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
Pollutant: Permethrin
Final Listing Decision: 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)(2018)
Revision Status Revised
Sources: A Source Unknown
Expected TMDL Completion Date: 2033
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: This pollutant is being considered for placement on the CWA section 303(d) List under sections 3.1 and 3.6 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.1 a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status. Under section 3.6, at least two lines of evidence are necessary to assess listing status for pollutants sediment, and pollutant concentrations in sediment must be associated with sediment toxicity to justify adding that pollutant to the CWA section 303(d) List.

Four lines of evidence are available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. Six of six samples exceed the water quality threshold in water. Zero of three samples exceed the water quality threshold in sediment, but this sample size is insufficient to determine beneficial use support with the statistical power and confidence of the Listing Policy.

Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is sufficient justification for 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 six samples exceed the water quality threshold in water, and this exceeds the allowable frequency listed in Table 3.1 of the Listing Policy.
4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are 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 130330, Permethrin
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 227960
 
Pollutant: Permethrin
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 1
Number of Exceedances: 1
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed County of San Diego data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 1 of 1 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for Permethrin.
Data Reference: Data for Various Pollutants from the County of San Diego Department of Public Works Watershed Protection Program, 2001-2008.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: All waters shall be maintained free of toxic substances in concentrations that are toxic to, or produce detrimental physiological responses in, human, plant, animal, or aquatic life (Water Quality Control Plan, San Diego Basin).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: The chronic concentration goal for Permethrin is 1 ng/L (expressed as a 4-day average).  If the freely dissolved concentrations of Permethrin were reported or could be calculated then these values were used for this assessment.  In the absence of freely dissolved concentrations, total concentrations were used.
Guideline Reference: Water Quality Criteria Report for Permethrin
Guideline Reference: Amendment to the Water Quality Control Plan for the Sacramento River and San Joaquin River Basins for the Control of Pyrethroid Pesticide Discharges
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site (911TJR-MLS)
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2008-12-16 and 2008-12-16
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: The Quality Assurance Project Plan from Weston, The Regional Monitoring Workgroup Urban Runoff Monitoring Final Report Methods Sections and Statements of Work, and Weston Solutions Inc. Desk Reference for Quality Control Of Work Products.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Weston, The Regional Monitoring Workgroup Urban Runoff Monitoring Final Report Methods Sections and Statements of Work, and Weston Solutions Inc. Desk Reference for Quality Control Of Work Products.
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 130330, Permethrin
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 144864
 
Pollutant: Permethrin
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 0
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed San Diego Region NPDES data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support, and the results are as follows: 0 of the 0 samples exceeded the evaluation guideline for Permethrin. Although a total of 3 samples were collected, 3 of these samples were not included in the assessment because the laboratory data reporting limit(s) was above the water quality threshold and therefore the results could not be quantified with the level of certainty required by the Listing Policy Section 6.1.5.5.
Data Reference: Field, Habitat, Sediment, Toxicity, Water data for the 2020/2022 integrated report in Region 9.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: All waters shall be maintained free of toxic substances in concentrations that are toxic to, or produce detrimental physiological responses in, human, plant, animal, or aquatic life (Water Quality Control Plan, San Diego Basin).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: The chronic concentration goal for Permethrin is 1 ng/L (expressed as a 4-day average).  If the freely dissolved concentrations of Permethrin were reported or could be calculated then these values were used for this assessment.  In the absence of freely dissolved concentrations, total concentrations were used.
Guideline Reference: Water Quality Criteria Report for Permethrin
Guideline Reference: Amendment to the Water Quality Control Plan for the Sacramento River and San Joaquin River Basins for the Control of Pyrethroid Pesticide Discharges
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site (TJR-MLS).
Temporal Representation: Date for this waterbody was collected over the date range 2013-10-10 to 2014-05-08
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: County of San Diego - Dept of Public Works. 2008. Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight. ., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2014. Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program., Wood. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 130330, Permethrin
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 144944
 
Pollutant: Permethrin
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 5
Number of Exceedances: 5
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed San Diego Region NPDES data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 5 of 5 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for Permethrin.
Data Reference: Field, Habitat, Sediment, Toxicity, Water data for the 2020/2022 integrated report in Region 9.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: All waters shall be maintained free of toxic substances in concentrations that are toxic to, or produce detrimental physiological responses in, human, plant, animal, or aquatic life (Water Quality Control Plan, San Diego Basin).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: The chronic concentration goal for Permethrin is 1 ng/L (expressed as a 4-day average).  If the freely dissolved concentrations of Permethrin were reported or could be calculated then these values were used for this assessment.  In the absence of freely dissolved concentrations, total concentrations were used.
Guideline Reference: Water Quality Criteria Report for Permethrin
Guideline Reference: Amendment to the Water Quality Control Plan for the Sacramento River and San Joaquin River Basins for the Control of Pyrethroid Pesticide Discharges
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site (TJR-MLS)
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2011-10-06 and 2014-03-11
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: County of San Diego - Dept of Public Works. 2008. Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight. ., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2014. Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program., Wood. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 130330, Permethrin
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 138577
 
Pollutant: Permethrin
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Sediment
Matrix: Sediment
Fraction: Total
 
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: Water Board staff assessed San Diego Region NPDES data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and the results are as follows: 0 of the 2 samples exceeded the evaluation guideline for Permethrin, Total .
Data Reference: Field, Habitat, Sediment, Toxicity, Water data for the 2020/2022 integrated report in Region 9.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: All waters shall be maintained free of toxic substances in concentrations that are toxic to, or that produce detrimental physiological responses in human, plant, animal, or aquatic life (Water Quality Control Plan, San Diego Basin).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: The evaluation guideline for permethrin is the median lethal concentration (LC50) of 8.9 ug/g and is normalized by the percentage of organic carbon in the sediment sample. The LC50 8.9 ug/g is the geometric mean of LC50 values for permethrin from Amweg et al. (2005).
Guideline Reference: Use and Toxicity of Pyrethroid Pesticides in the Central Valley, California, USA. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry, 24:966-972, with erratum 24:No. 5
 
Spatial Representation: Data were collected from 1 station(s). Station Code(s): TJR-MLS.
Temporal Representation: Data for this waterbody were collected over the date range 2011-10-11 to 2013-10-15
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: County of San Diego - Dept of Public Works. 2008. Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight. ., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2014. Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program., Wood. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 130330, Permethrin
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 76802
 
Pollutant: Permethrin
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Sediment
Matrix: Sediment
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Preservation of Rare & Endangered Species
 
Number of Samples: 1
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed SWAMP data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 1 samples exceed the criterion for Permethrin, Total.
Data Reference: Statewide Stream Pollution Trends Study 2008
 
SWAMP Data: SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin (SDRWQCB 2007): 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.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: The evaluation guideline for permethrin is the median lethal concentration (LC50) of 8.9 ug/g and is normalized by the percentage of organic carbon in the sediment sample. The LC50 8.9 ug/g is the geometric mean of LC50 values for permethrin from Amweg et al. (2005).
Guideline Reference: Use and Toxicity of Pyrethroid Pesticides in the Central Valley, California, USA. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry, 24:966-972, with erratum 24:No. 5
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Tijuana River was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Tijuana River at Hollister Rd - 911TJHRxx]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected on a single day 5/22/2008.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: SWAMP data collected before September 2008 followed the QAMP 2002.
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
112174
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
Pollutant: Pyrethroids
Final Listing Decision: List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: New Decision
Revision Status Revised
Sources: A Source Unknown
Expected TMDL Completion Date: 2033
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: This pollutant is being considered for placement on the CWA section 303(d) List under sections 3.1 and 3.6 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.1 a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status. Under section 3.6, at least two lines of evidence are necessary to assess listing status for pollutants sediment, and pollutant concentrations in sediment must be associated with sediment toxicity to justify adding that pollutant to the CWA section 303(d) List.

Three lines of evidence are available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. Eight of eight samples exceed the water quality threshold in water. Zero of two samples exceed the water quality threshold in sediment, but this sample size is insufficient to determine beneficial use support with the statistical power and confidence of the Listing Policy.

Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is sufficient justification for 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 eight samples exceed the water quality threshold in water, and this exceeds the allowable frequency listed in Table 3.1 of the Listing Policy.
4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are 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:
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 112174, Pyrethroids
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 138859
 
Pollutant: Pyrethroids
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Sediment
Matrix: Sediment
Fraction: Total
 
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: Water Board staff assessed San Diego Region NPDES data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and the results are as follows: 0 of the 2 samples exceeded the evaluation guideline for Pyrethroids .
Data Reference: Field, Habitat, Sediment, Toxicity, Water data for the 2020/2022 integrated report in Region 9.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: All waters shall be maintained free of toxic substances in concentrations that are toxic to, or that produce detrimental physiological responses in human, plant, animal, or aquatic life (Water Quality Control Plan, San Diego Basin).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: The evaluation guideline for the protection of aquatic life from pyrethroids is one toxic unit equivalent. A toxic unit equivalent is equal to the sum of; Bifenthrin, Cyfluthrin, Cypermethrin, Lambda-Cyhalothrin, and Permethrin, each having their reported concentration divided their respective evaluation guideline prior to being summed. If this results in a value greater than one, the sample day is considered to be in exceedance of the water quality standard. (Department of Fish and Game Aquatic Life Criteria for Pyrethroid Insecticides, 2000)
Guideline Reference: Use and Toxicity of Pyrethroid Pesticides in the Central Valley, California, USA. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry, 24:966-972, with erratum 24:No. 5
Guideline Reference: Partitioning, bioavailability, and toxicity of the pyrethroid insecticide cypermethrin in sediments. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry 21:9-15
Guideline Reference: Toxicity of Sediment-Associated Pesticides to Chironomus dilutus and Hyalella azteca. Arch. Environ. Contam. Toxicol. 61:83¿92.
Guideline Reference: Whole-sediment toxicity identification evaluation tools for pyrethroid insecticides: I. piperonyl butoxide addition. Environ. Toxicol. Chem. 26:2389-2396.
Guideline Reference: Aquatic life water quality criteria derived via the UC Davis method: ll. Pyrethroid insecticides. Reviews of Environmental Contamination and Toxicology 216:51-103.
 
Spatial Representation: Data were collected from 1 station(s). Station Code(s): TJR-MLS.
Temporal Representation: Data for this waterbody were collected over the date range 2011-10-11 to 2013-10-15
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: County of San Diego - Dept of Public Works. 2008. Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight. ., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2014. Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program., Wood. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 112174, Pyrethroids
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 146213
 
Pollutant: Pyrethroids
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 7
Number of Exceedances: 7
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed San Diego Region NPDES data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and the results are as follows: 7 of the 7 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for Pyrethroids. Although a total of 8 samples were collected, 1 of these samples were not included in the assessment because the laboratory data reporting limit(s) was above the water quality threshold and therefore the results could not be quantified with the level of certainty required by the Listing Policy Section 6.1.5.5.
Data Reference: Field, Habitat, Sediment, Toxicity, Water data for the 2020/2022 integrated report in Region 9.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: All waters shall be maintained free of toxic substances in concentrations that are toxic to, or produce detrimental physiological responses in, human, plant, animal, or aquatic life (Water Quality Control Plan, San Diego Basin).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: The summed ratios of the pyrethroid pesticides bifenthrin, cyfluthrin, cypermethrin, esfenvalerate, lambda-cyhalothrin, permethrin and their respective chronic concentration goals are not to exceed 1. If the freely dissolved concentrations of these pesticides were reported or could be calculated then these values were used for this assessment.  In the absence of freely dissolved concentrations, total concentrations were used.
Guideline Reference: Amendment to the Water Quality Control Plan for the Sacramento River and San Joaquin River Basins for the Control of Pyrethroid Pesticide Discharges
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site (TJR-MLS).
Temporal Representation: Data for this waterbody was collected over the date range 2011-10-06 to 2014-05-08
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: County of San Diego - Dept of Public Works. 2008. Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight. ., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2014. Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program., Wood. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 112174, Pyrethroids
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 227991
 
Pollutant: Pyrethroids
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 1
Number of Exceedances: 1
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed County of San Diego data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 1 of 1 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for Pyrethroids.
Data Reference: Data for Various Pollutants from the County of San Diego Department of Public Works Watershed Protection Program, 2001-2008.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: All waters shall be maintained free of toxic substances in concentrations that are toxic to, or produce detrimental physiological responses in, human, plant, animal, or aquatic life (Water Quality Control Plan, San Diego Basin).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: The summed ratios of the pyrethroid pesticides bifenthrin, cyfluthrin, cypermethrin, esfenvalerate, lambda-cyhalothrin, permethrin and their respective chronic concentration goals are not to exceed 1. If the freely dissolved concentrations of these pesticides were reported or could be calculated then these values were used for this assessment.  In the absence of freely dissolved concentrations, total concentrations were used.
Guideline Reference: Amendment to the Water Quality Control Plan for the Sacramento River and San Joaquin River Basins for the Control of Pyrethroid Pesticide Discharges
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site (911TJR-MLS)
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2008-12-16 and 2008-12-16
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: The Quality Assurance Project Plan from Weston, The Regional Monitoring Workgroup Urban Runoff Monitoring Final Report Methods Sections and Statements of Work, and Weston Solutions Inc. Desk Reference for Quality Control Of Work Products.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Weston, The Regional Monitoring Workgroup Urban Runoff Monitoring Final Report Methods Sections and Statements of Work, and Weston Solutions Inc. Desk Reference for Quality Control Of Work Products.
 
 
DECISION ID
112172
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
Pollutant: Turbidity
Final Listing Decision: List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: New Decision
Revision Status Revised
Sources: A Source Unknown
Expected TMDL Completion Date: 2033
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. Twelve of the 26 samples exceed the WARM beneficial use threshold.

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. Twelve of 26 samples exceed the threshold 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:
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 112172, Turbidity
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 147835
 
Pollutant: Turbidity
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 5
Number of Exceedances: 2
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed San Diego Coastkeeper Ambient Monitoring Program data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 2 of 5 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for Turbidity.
Data Reference: Water data for the 2020/2022 integrated report in Region 9.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Turbidity water quality threshold in this HSA is 20 NTU, and this level is not to be exceeded more than 10% of the time during any one year period (Basin Plan, Table 3-2).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site (TJN-060)
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2011-04-16 and 2015-05-16
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: San Diego Coastkeeper. 2010. San Diego Regional Water Quality Assessment and Outreach Project Quality Assurance Project Plan.
QAPP Information Reference(s): San Diego Regional Water Quality Assessment and Outreach Project Quality Assurance Project Plan
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 112172, Turbidity
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 147541
 
Pollutant: Turbidity
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 6
Number of Exceedances: 2
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed San Diego Coastkeeper Ambient Monitoring Program data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 2 of 6 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for Turbidity.
Data Reference: Water data for the 2020/2022 integrated report in Region 9.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Turbidity water quality threshold in this HSA is 20 NTU, and this level is not to be exceeded more than 10% of the time during any one year period (Basin Plan, Table 3-2).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site (TJN-050)
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2011-04-16 and 2015-05-16
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: San Diego Coastkeeper. 2010. San Diego Regional Water Quality Assessment and Outreach Project Quality Assurance Project Plan.
QAPP Information Reference(s): San Diego Regional Water Quality Assessment and Outreach Project Quality Assurance Project Plan
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 112172, Turbidity
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 147519
 
Pollutant: Turbidity
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 10
Number of Exceedances: 6
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed San Diego Region NPDES data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 6 of 10 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for Turbidity.
Data Reference: Field, Habitat, Sediment, Toxicity, Water data for the 2020/2022 integrated report in Region 9.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Turbidity water quality threshold in this HSA is 20 NTU, and this level is not to be exceeded more than 10% of the time during any one year period (Basin Plan, Table 3-2).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site (TJR-MLS)
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2011-10-06 and 2014-05-07
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: County of San Diego - Dept of Public Works. 2008. Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight. ., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2014. Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program., Wood. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load., Weston Solutions, Inc.. 2019. Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency for NPDES Receiving Water Monitoring
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan for the County of San Diego's Inland Surface Water Monitoring Program
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan Equivalency Los Penasquitos Watershed Management Area Sediment Load Total Maximum Daily Load
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 112172, Turbidity
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 147498
 
Pollutant: Turbidity
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 5
Number of Exceedances: 2
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed San Diego Coastkeeper Ambient Monitoring Program data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 2 of 5 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for Turbidity.
Data Reference: Water data for the 2020/2022 integrated report in Region 9.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Turbidity water quality threshold in this HSA is 20 NTU, and this level is not to be exceeded more than 10% of the time during any one year period (Basin Plan, Table 3-2).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site (TJN-040)
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2011-04-16 and 2015-02-21
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: San Diego Coastkeeper. 2010. San Diego Regional Water Quality Assessment and Outreach Project Quality Assurance Project Plan.
QAPP Information Reference(s): San Diego Regional Water Quality Assessment and Outreach Project Quality Assurance Project Plan
 
 
DECISION ID
80438
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
Pollutant: Antimony
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.

One line of evidence is available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. None of the 19 samples exceed the water quality objective.

Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is sufficient justification against placing this water segment-pollutant combination on the 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 19 samples exceeded the water quality objective, and this does not exceed the allowable frequency listed in Table 3.1 of the Listing Policy.
4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.
 
Regional Board Decision Recommendation: After review of the available data and information, RWQCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should not be placed on the section 303(d) list because applicable water quality standards are not being exceeded.
 
State Board Review of Regional Board Conclusion and Recommendation:
 
State Board Decision Recommendation: After review of this Regional Board decision, SWRCB staff recommend the decision be approved by the State Board.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 80438, Antimony
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 78141
 
Pollutant: Antimony
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Commercial or recreational collection of fish, shellfish, or organisms
 
Number of Samples: 19
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed County of San Diego data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 19 samples exceed the criterion for Antimony.
Data Reference: Data for Various Pollutants from the County of San Diego Department of Public Works Watershed Protection Program, 2001-2008.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Antimony criteria for the protection of human health from consumption of organisms only is 4.3 mg/L (California Toxics Rule, 2000).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Code of Federal Regulations 40 part 131.38 Establishment of numeric criteria for priority toxic pollutants for the State of California. 7/1/2011 Edition
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Tijuana River was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Tijuana River - 911TJR-MLS]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 1/29/2002-12/16/2008.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: The Quality Assurance Project Plan from Weston, the Regional Monitoring Workgroup Urban Runoff Monitoring Final Report Methods Sections and Statements of Work, and Weston Solutions Inc. Desk Reference for Quality Control Of Work Products were followed.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Weston, The Regional Monitoring Workgroup Urban Runoff Monitoring Final Report Methods Sections and Statements of Work, and Weston Solutions Inc. Desk Reference for Quality Control Of Work Products.
 
 
DECISION ID
79991
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
Pollutant: Chlordane
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 3.6 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.6 two lines of evidence are necessary to assess listing status.

Only one line of evidence is available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. Zero of the one sample exceeds the guideline.

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 one sample exceeded the guideline, and 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 fully supported using table 3.1.
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. The readily available data and information is insufficient to determine, with the power and confidence of the Listing Policy, the applicable beneficial use support rating.
 
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 79991, Chlordane
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 72822
 
Pollutant: Chlordane
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Sediment
Matrix: Sediment
Fraction: Total
 
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: 0 of 1 samples collected exceeded the criteria for chlordane concentration (Sum of trans-Chlordane, cis-Chlordane, cis-Nonachlor, trans-Nonachlor, and Oxychlordane).
Data Reference: Statewide Stream Pollution Trends Study 2008
 
SWAMP Data: SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: All waters shall be maintained free of toxic substances in concentrations that are toxic to, or that produce detrimental physiological responses in human, plant, animal, or aquatic life. Waters shall not contain substances in concentrations that result in the deposition of material that causes nuisance or adversely affects beneficial uses. (Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: The Probable Effect Concentration for Chlordane in freshwater sediments is 17.6 ug/kg(MacDonald et al. 2000).
Guideline Reference: Development and evaluation of consensus-based sediment quality guidelines for freshwater ecosystems. Environmental Contamination and Toxicology. 39: 20-31
 
Spatial Representation: Data were collected at the following station 911TJHRxx (Tijuana River at Hollister Rd).
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected on 5/22/2008.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: The SWAMP QAPP (2008) was followed.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program Quality Assurance Program Plan
 
 
DECISION ID
77450
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
Pollutant: DDD (Dichlorodiphenyldichloroethane)
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 3.6 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.6 at least two lines of evidence are necessary to assess listing status for pollutants sediment, and pollutant concentrations in sediment must be associated with sediment toxicity to justify adding that pollutant to the CWA section 303(d) List.

One line of evidence is available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. Zero of one sample exceeds the criterion.

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 one sample exceeded the criterion, and 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 fully supported using table 3.1.
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. The readily available data and information is insufficient to determine, with the power and confidence of the Listing Policy, the applicable beneficial use support rating.
 
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 77450, DDD (Dichlorodiphenyldichloroethane)
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 76782
 
Pollutant: DDD (Dichlorodiphenyldichloroethane)
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Sediment
Matrix: Sediment
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Preservation of Rare & Endangered Species
 
Number of Samples: 1
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed SWAMP data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 1 samples exceed the criterion for DDD.
Data Reference: Statewide Stream Pollution Trends Study 2008
 
SWAMP Data: SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin (SDRWQCB 2007): 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.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: In freshwater sediments the probable effect concentration (predictive of sediment toxicity) for sum of DDD (o,p' + p,p') is 28.0 ug/Kg dry weight (MacDonald et al. 2000).
Guideline Reference: Development and evaluation of consensus-based sediment quality guidelines for freshwater ecosystems. Environmental Contamination and Toxicology. 39: 20-31
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Tijuana River was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Tijuana River at Hollister Rd - 911TJHRxx]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected on a single day 5/22/2008.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: SWAMP data collected before September 2008 followed the QAMP 2002.
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
86399
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
Pollutant: DDE (Dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene)
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 3.6 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.6 at least two lines of evidence are necessary to assess listing status for pollutants sediment, and pollutant concentrations in sediment must be associated with sediment toxicity to justify adding that pollutant to the CWA section 303(d) List.

One line of evidence is available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. Zero of one sample exceeds the criterion.

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 one sample exceeded the criterion, and 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 fully supported using table 3.1.
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. The readily available data and information is insufficient to determine, with the power and confidence of the Listing Policy, the applicable beneficial use support rating.
 
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 86399, DDE (Dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene)
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 76783
 
Pollutant: DDE (Dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene)
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Sediment
Matrix: Sediment
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Preservation of Rare & Endangered Species
 
Number of Samples: 1
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed SWAMP data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 1 samples exceed the criterion for DDE.
Data Reference: Statewide Stream Pollution Trends Study 2008
 
SWAMP Data: SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin (SDRWQCB 2007): 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.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: In freshwater sediments the probable effect concentration (predictive of sediment toxicity) for sum of DDE (o,p' + p,p') is 31.3 ug/Kg dry weight (MacDonald et al. 2000).
Guideline Reference: Development and evaluation of consensus-based sediment quality guidelines for freshwater ecosystems. Environmental Contamination and Toxicology. 39: 20-31
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Tijuana River was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Tijuana River at Hollister Rd - 911TJHRxx]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected on a single day 5/22/2008.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: SWAMP data collected before September 2008 followed the QAMP 2002.
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
86432
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
Pollutant: DDT (Dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane)
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 3.6 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.6 at least two lines of evidence are necessary to assess listing status for pollutants sediment, and pollutant concentrations in sediment must be associated with sediment toxicity to justify adding that pollutant to the CWA section 303(d) List.

One line of evidence is available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. Zero of one sample exceeds the criterion.

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 one sample exceeded the criterion, and 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 fully supported using table 3.1.
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. The readily available data and information is insufficient to determine, with the power and confidence of the Listing Policy, the applicable beneficial use support rating.
 
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 86432, DDT (Dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane)
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 76784
 
Pollutant: DDT (Dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane)
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Sediment
Matrix: Sediment
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Preservation of Rare & Endangered Species
 
Number of Samples: 1
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed SWAMP data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 1 samples exceed the criterion for DDT.
Data Reference: Statewide Stream Pollution Trends Study 2008
 
SWAMP Data: SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin (SDRWQCB 2007): 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.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: In freshwater sediments the probable effect concentration (predictive of sediment toxicity) for sum of DDT (o,p' + p,p') is 62.9 ug/Kg dry weight (MacDonald et al. 2000).
Guideline Reference: Development and evaluation of consensus-based sediment quality guidelines for freshwater ecosystems. Environmental Contamination and Toxicology. 39: 20-31
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Tijuana River was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Tijuana River at Hollister Rd - 911TJHRxx]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected on a single day 5/22/2008.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: SWAMP data collected before September 2008 followed the QAMP 2002.
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
86042
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
Pollutant: Dieldrin
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 3.6 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.6 at least two lines of evidence are necessary to assess listing status for pollutants sediment, and pollutant concentrations in sediment must be associated with sediment toxicity to justify adding that pollutant to the CWA section 303(d) List.

One line of evidence is available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. Zero of one sample exceeds the criterion.

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 one sample exceeded the criterion, and 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 fully supported using table 3.1.
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. The readily available data and information is insufficient to determine, with the power and confidence of the Listing Policy, the applicable beneficial use support rating.
 
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 86042, Dieldrin
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 76790
 
Pollutant: Dieldrin
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Sediment
Matrix: Sediment
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Preservation of Rare & Endangered Species
 
Number of Samples: 1
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed SWAMP data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 1 samples exceed the criterion for Dieldrin.
Data Reference: Statewide Stream Pollution Trends Study 2008
 
SWAMP Data: SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin (SDRWQCB 2007): 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.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: In freshwater sediments the probable effect concentration (predictive of sediment toxicity) for dieldrin is 61.8 ug/Kg dry weight (MacDonald et al. 2000).
Guideline Reference: Development and evaluation of consensus-based sediment quality guidelines for freshwater ecosystems. Environmental Contamination and Toxicology. 39: 20-31
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Tijuana River was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Tijuana River at Hollister Rd - 911TJHRxx]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected on a single day 5/22/2008.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: SWAMP data collected before September 2008 followed the 2002 QAMP.
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
86044
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
Pollutant: Endrin
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 3.6 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.6 at least two lines of evidence are necessary to assess listing status for pollutants sediment, and pollutant concentrations in sediment must be associated with sediment toxicity to justify adding that pollutant to the CWA section 303(d) List.

One line of evidence is available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. Zero of one sample exceeds the criterion.

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 one sample exceeded the criterion, and 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 fully supported using table 3.1.
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. The readily available data and information is insufficient to determine, with the power and confidence of the Listing Policy, the applicable beneficial use support rating.
 
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 86044, Endrin
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 76791
 
Pollutant: Endrin
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Sediment
Matrix: Sediment
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Preservation of Rare & Endangered Species
 
Number of Samples: 1
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed SWAMP data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 1 samples exceed the criterion for Endrin.
Data Reference: Statewide Stream Pollution Trends Study 2008
 
SWAMP Data: SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin (SDRWQCB 2007): 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.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: In freshwater sediments the probable effect concentration (predictive of sediment toxicity) for endrin is 207 ug/Kg dry weight (MacDonald et al. 2000).
Guideline Reference: Development and evaluation of consensus-based sediment quality guidelines for freshwater ecosystems. Environmental Contamination and Toxicology. 39: 20-31
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Tijuana River was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Tijuana River at Hollister Rd - 911TJHRxx]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected on a single day 5/22/2008.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: SWAMP data collected before September 2008 followed the 2002 QAMP.
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
86117
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
Pollutant: Lindane/gamma Hexachlorocyclohexane (gamma-HCH)
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 3.6 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.6 at least two lines of evidence are necessary to assess listing status for pollutants sediment, and pollutant concentrations in sediment must be associated with sediment toxicity to justify adding that pollutant to the CWA section 303(d) List.

One line of evidence is available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. Zero of one sample exceeds the criterion.

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 one sample exceeded the criterion, and 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 fully supported using table 3.1.
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. The readily available data and information is insufficient to determine, with the power and confidence of the Listing Policy, the applicable beneficial use support rating.
 
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 86117, Lindane/gamma Hexachlorocyclohexane (gamma-HCH)
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 77918
 
Pollutant: Lindane/gamma Hexachlorocyclohexane (gamma-HCH)
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Sediment
Matrix: Sediment
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Preservation of Rare & Endangered Species
 
Number of Samples: 1
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed SWAMP data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 1 samples exceed the criterion for HCH, gamma.
Data Reference: Statewide Stream Pollution Trends Study 2008
 
SWAMP Data: SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin (SDRWQCB 2007): 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.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: In freshwater sediments the probable effect concentration (predictive of sediment toxicity) for Lindane (gamma-HCH) is 4.99 ug/Kg dry weight (MacDonald et al. 2000).
Guideline Reference: Development and evaluation of consensus-based sediment quality guidelines for freshwater ecosystems. Environmental Contamination and Toxicology. 39: 20-31
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Tijuana River was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Tijuana River at Hollister Rd - 911TJHRxx]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected on a single day 5/22/2008.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: SWAMP data collected before September 2008 followed the 2002 QAMP.
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
86146
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
Pollutant: Mercury
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 3.6 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.6 at least two lines of evidence are necessary to assess listing status for pollutants sediment, and pollutant concentrations in sediment must be associated with sediment toxicity to justify adding that pollutant to the CWA section 303(d) List.

One line of evidence is available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. Zero of one sample exceeds the criterion.

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 one sample exceeded the criterion, and 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 fully supported using table 3.1.
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. The readily available data and information is insufficient to determine, with the power and confidence of the Listing Policy, the applicable beneficial use support rating.
 
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 86146, Mercury
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 76798
 
Pollutant: Mercury
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Sediment
Matrix: Sediment
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Preservation of Rare & Endangered Species
 
Number of Samples: 1
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed SWAMP data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 1 samples exceed the criterion for Mercury.
Data Reference: Statewide Stream Pollution Trends Study 2008
 
SWAMP Data: SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin (SDRWQCB 2007): 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.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: In freshwater sediments the probable effect concentration (predictive of sediment toxicity) for mercury is 1.06 mg/Kg dry weight (MacDonald et al. 2000).
Guideline Reference: Development and evaluation of consensus-based sediment quality guidelines for freshwater ecosystems. Environmental Contamination and Toxicology. 39: 20-31
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Tijuana River was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Tijuana River at Hollister Rd - 911TJHRxx]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected on a single day 5/22/2008.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: SWAMP data collected before September 2008 followed the 2002 QAMP.
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
86332
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
Pollutant: Methyl Parathion
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 3.6 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.6 at least two lines of evidence are necessary to assess listing status for pollutants sediment, and pollutant concentrations in sediment must be associated with sediment toxicity to justify adding that pollutant to the CWA section 303(d) List.

One line of evidence is available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. Zero of one sample exceeds the criterion.

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 one sample exceeded the criterion, and 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 fully supported using table 3.1.
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. The readily available data and information is insufficient to determine, with the power and confidence of the Listing Policy, the applicable beneficial use support rating.
 
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 86332, Methyl Parathion
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 77919
 
Pollutant: Methyl Parathion
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Sediment
Matrix: Sediment
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Preservation of Rare & Endangered Species
 
Number of Samples: 1
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed SWAMP data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 1 samples exceed the criterion for Parathion, Methyl.
Data Reference: Statewide Stream Pollution Trends Study 2008
 
SWAMP Data: SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin (SDRWQCB 2007): 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.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: The evaluation guideline for methyl parathion is the median lethal concentration (LC50) of 6 ug/g and is normalized by the percentage of organic carbon in the sediment sample. The LC50 6 ug/g is the geometric mean of LC50 values for methyl parathion from Ding et al. (2011).
Guideline Reference: Toxicity of Sediment-Associated Pesticides to Chironomus dilutus and Hyalella azteca. Arch. Environ. Contam. Toxicol. 61:83¿92.
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Tijuana River was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Tijuana River at Hollister Rd - 911TJHRxx]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected on a single day 5/22/2008.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: SWAMP data collected before September 2008 followed the QAMP 2002.
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
86367
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
Pollutant: PCBs (Polychlorinated biphenyls)
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 3.6 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.6 at least two lines of evidence are necessary to assess listing status for pollutants sediment, and pollutant concentrations in sediment must be associated with sediment toxicity to justify adding that pollutant to the CWA section 303(d) List.

One line of evidence is available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. Zero of one sample exceeds the criterion.

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 one sample exceeded the criterion, and 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 fully supported using table 3.1.
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. The readily available data and information is insufficient to determine, with the power and confidence of the Listing Policy, the applicable beneficial use support rating.
 
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 86367, PCBs (Polychlorinated biphenyls)
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 72815
 
Pollutant: PCBs (Polychlorinated biphenyls)
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Sediment
Matrix: Sediment
Fraction: Total
 
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: Zero of 1 sample collected for Total PCBs exceeded the evaluation guideline.
Data Reference: Statewide Stream Pollution Trends Study 2008
 
SWAMP Data: SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: All waters shall be maintained free of toxic substances in concentrations that are toxic to, or that produce detrimental physiological responses in human, plant, animal, or aquatic life (Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: In freshwater sediments the probable effect concentration (predictive of sediment toxicity) for total PCB is 676 ug/Kg dry weight (MacDonald et al. 2000).
Guideline Reference: Development and evaluation of consensus-based sediment quality guidelines for freshwater ecosystems. Environmental Contamination and Toxicology. 39: 20-31
 
Spatial Representation: Data were collected at the following station 911TJHRxx (Tijuana River at Hollister Rd).
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected on 5/22/2008.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: The SWAMP QAPP (2008) was followed.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program Quality Assurance Program Plan
 
 
DECISION ID
68377
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
Pollutant: Thallium
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: The decision has not changed from the previous listing cycle. No new data were assessed for the current listing cycle. Therefore, the previous conclusion remains unchanged, and is as follows:

Thallium is being considered for placement on the section 303(d) list under section 3.1 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.1, one line(s) of evidence is necessary to assess listing status.

One line of evidence is available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. Zero of zero of the samples exceed the California Toxics Rule water quality objective for Thallium.

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. Zero of zero samples exceeded the California Toxics Rule for thallium and this sample size is insufficient to determine with the power and confidence of the Listing Policy if standards are not met. A minimum of two samples is needed for application of table 3.1.
4. Pursuant to SECTION 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met; EXCEPT that
the Information that is provided is based on visual observations and not supported by numerical data. Visual observation information alone is insufficient to place a water body segment pollutant combination on the section 303(d) list because it cannot be quantitatively determined if applicable water quality standards are 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 68377, Thallium
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 3369
 
Pollutant: Thallium
LOE Subgroup: Testimonial Evidence
Matrix: Not Specified
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Municipal & Domestic Supply
 
Number of Samples: 0
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: From the letter written by the San Diego Baykeeper on 06/14/2004: We recommend continued listing of this area for impairment by bacteria, low dissolved oxygen, eutrophication, pesticides, solids, synthetic organics, lead, nickel, thallium, and trash.
Data Reference: Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The objective is numeric.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)
 
Evaluation Guideline: From the CTR, the human health freshwater criteria for water and organisms is 1.7 ppb.
Guideline Reference: Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)
 
Spatial Representation: The letter suggesting impairment describes the waterbody as the Tijuana River. Exact location of samples or studies was not reported.
Temporal Representation: Time of possible impairment was not reported. The letter suggesting impairment was written on 06/14/2004.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: QA Info Missing
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
 
DECISION ID
86437
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
Pollutant: Total DDT (sum of 4,4'- and 2,4'- isomers of DDT, DDE, and DDD)
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 3.6 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.6 at least two lines of evidence are necessary to assess listing status for pollutants sediment, and pollutant concentrations in sediment must be associated with sediment toxicity to justify adding that pollutant to the CWA section 303(d) List.

One line of evidence is available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. Zero of one sample exceeds the criterion.

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 one sample exceeded the criterion, and 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 fully supported using table 3.1.
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. The readily available data and information is insufficient to determine, with the power and confidence of the Listing Policy, the applicable beneficial use support rating.
 
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 86437, Total DDT (sum of 4,4'- and 2,4'- isomers of DDT, DDE, and DDD)
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 76809
 
Pollutant: Total DDT (sum of 4,4'- and 2,4'- isomers of DDT, DDE, and DDD)
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Sediment
Matrix: Sediment
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Preservation of Rare & Endangered Species
 
Number of Samples: 1
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed SWAMP data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 1 samples exceed the criterion for DDT, Total.
Data Reference: Statewide Stream Pollution Trends Study 2008
 
SWAMP Data: SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin (SDRWQCB 2007): 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.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: In freshwater sediments the probable effect concentration (predictive of sediment toxicity) for total DDTs (Sum DDT + Sum DDD + Sum DDE) is 572 ug/Kg dry weight (MacDonald et al. 2000).
Guideline Reference: Development and evaluation of consensus-based sediment quality guidelines for freshwater ecosystems. Environmental Contamination and Toxicology. 39: 20-31
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Tijuana River was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Tijuana River at Hollister Rd - 911TJHRxx]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected on a single day 5/22/2008.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: SWAMP data collected before September 2008 followed the QAMP 2002.
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
76720
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
Pollutant: Ammonia as Nitrogen
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 3.1 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.1 a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status.

One line of evidence are available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. Ten of the 12 samples exceed the water quality objective for unionized ammonia for the protection of WARM beneficial use.

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. Ten of the 12 samples exceed the water quality objective for unionized ammonia for the protection of WARM beneficial use and this exceeds the allowable frequency listed in Table 3.1 of the Listing Policy.
4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are 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 76720, Ammonia as Nitrogen
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 7193
 
Pollutant: Ammonia as Nitrogen
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 12
Number of Exceedances: 10
 
Data and Information Type: Fixed station physical/chemical monitoring (conventional pollutants only)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Ten of twelve samples collected exceed the water quality objective according to results in the San Diego County Municipal Copermittees Annual Progress Report, 2007. Samples were collected two to four times a year from 2002-2006.
Data Reference: Urban Runoff Monitoring, Volume 1- Final Report To request a file review please contact the San Diego Regional Board receptionist. They may be reached by phone at (619) 516-1990, by email at rb9_records@waterboards.ca.gov, by fax at (619) 516-1994, or mail your request to: California Regional Water Quality Control Board Attention: File Review Request 2375 Northside Drive, Suite 100 San Diego, CA 92108 The ECM document handle is #2733059
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: From the Basin Plan the WQO for un-ionized ammonia (NH3) for inland surface waters is 0.025mg/L (as N) (RWQCB, 2007).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Samples were collected at the mass loading station located near the lower boundary of the watershed under the Hollister Street Bridge in San Diego, downstream from the International Boundary and Water Commission¿s diversion structure and treatment plant.
Temporal Representation: Samples were collected two to four times a year from 2002-2006.
Environmental Conditions: Samples were collected during wet weather.
QAPP Information: QA/QC conducted according to Federal Regulations under requirements of a NPDES permit.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 76720, Ammonia as Nitrogen
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 7380
 
Pollutant: Ammonia as Nitrogen
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 2
Number of Exceedances: 2
 
Data and Information Type: Fixed station physical/chemical monitoring (conventional pollutants only)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Two of two samples exceed the water quality objective according to results in the Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program Report, 2007. Tijuana River 5 monitoring station was sampled on April 10, 2006 and May 31, 2005.
Data Reference: Monitoring data for Region 9
 
SWAMP Data: SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: From the Basin Plan the WQO for un-ionized ammonia (NH3) for inland surface waters is 0.025mg/L (as N) (RWQCB, 2007).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Samples were collected at the monitoring station Tijuana River 5 on the main stem of the Tijuana River. (Station ID: 911TTJR05; lat/long: 32.55132/-117.08439)
Temporal Representation: Tijuana River 5 monitoring station was sampled on April 10, 2006 and May 31, 2005.
Environmental Conditions: The sampling event in April occurred during high base flow. The May sampling event occurred during declining base flow.
QAPP Information: Quality control for the chemical analysis portion of this study was conducted in accordance with the California's Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program.
QAPP Information Reference(s): 2002. Quality Assurance Management Plan for the State of California's Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program. California Department of Fish and Game, Monterey, CA
 
 
DECISION ID
76951
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
Pollutant: Benthic Community Effects
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: 2025
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: Benthic Community Effects is being considered for placement on the CWA section 303(d) List under sections 3.9 and 3.1 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.9, an additional line of evidence associating Benthic Community Effects with a water or sediment concentration of pollutant(s) is necessary to assess listing status.

Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence provides sufficient justification for placing Benthic Community Effects in this water segment 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. Pursuant to section 3.9 of the Listing Policy, the water exhibits significant degradation in biological populations and/or communities as compared to reference site(s) using the California Stream Condition Index. It is important to note the CSCI does not have GIS data for the O/E component for portions of the watershed in Mexico. However, the pMMI results exhibited significant degradation in biological populations and/or communities as compared to reference site(s).
4. Pursuant to section 3.9 of the Listing Policy, the water segment has associated pollutant(s) samples that exceed water quality objectives.
5. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are being met. The continued cross-border flows of sewage and untreated industrial discharges and stormwater, combined with the pMMI portion of the CSCI, provides sufficient weight of evidence that standards are not being 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(s) 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 76951, Benthic Community Effects
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 72751
 
Pollutant: Toxicity
LOE Subgroup: Toxicity
Matrix: Sediment
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 1
Number of Exceedances: 1
 
Data and Information Type: TOXICITY TESTING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: One sample was collected to evaluate sediment toxicity. The sample exhibited significant toxicity. The toxicity test included survival of Hyalella azteca. One sample can have multiple toxicity test results but will be counted only once. One sample is defined as being collected on the same day at the same location with the same lab sample id (if provided).
Data Reference: Statewide Stream Pollution Trends Study 2008
 
SWAMP Data: SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: All waters shall be maintained free of toxic substances in concentrations that are toxic to, or that produce detrimental physiological responses in, human, plant, animal, or aquatic life. Region 9 Basin Plan.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: Toxicity is defined as a statistically significant effect in the sample exposure compared to the control using EPA-recommended hypothesis testing. For SWAMP data exceedances are counted with the significant effect code SL. SL is defined as the result being significant compared to the negative control based on a statistical test, less than stated the alpha level, AND less than the evaluation threshold.
Guideline Reference: Methods for Measuring the Toxicity and Bioaccumulation of Sediment-associated Contaminants with Freshwater Invertebrates, Second Edition. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Office of Research and Development, Duluth, MI , U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Office of Water, Washington, DC EPA-600/R-99/064
 
Spatial Representation: The sample was collected at station 911TJHRxx.
Temporal Representation: The sample was collected in May 2008.
Environmental Conditions:
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.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program Quality Assurance Program Plan
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 76951, Benthic Community Effects
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 25808
 
Pollutant: Toxicity
LOE Subgroup: Toxicity
Matrix: Sediment
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
Aquatic Life Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 2
Number of Exceedances: 2
 
Data and Information Type: Ambient toxicity testing (chronic)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: toxicity was observed in the Hyalella azteca survival and growth test-
Two samples were collected and both show significant toxicity levels according to results in the Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program Report, 2007. The Tijuana River was sampled on May 31, 2005 and April 10, 2006.
Data Reference: Urban Runoff Monitoring, Volume 1- Final Report To request a file review please contact the San Diego Regional Board receptionist. They may be reached by phone at (619) 516-1990, by email at rb9_records@waterboards.ca.gov, by fax at (619) 516-1994, or mail your request to: California Regional Water Quality Control Board Attention: File Review Request 2375 Northside Drive, Suite 100 San Diego, CA 92108 The ECM document handle is #2733059
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: From the Basin Plan, all waters shall be free of toxic substances that are toxic to, or that produce detrimental physiological responses in human, plant, animal, or aquatic life (RWQCB, 2007).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: According to SWAMP, waters are considered toxic when samples show significant toxicity levels (SWAMP code ¿SL¿) when compared to a negative control. Significant toxicity is determined when statistical tests result in an alpha of less than 5% and percent control values less than the evaluation threshold.
Guideline Reference: Monitoring data for Region 9
 
Spatial Representation: Samples were collected from the monitoring station Tijuana River 5 (station id: 911TTJR05 lat/long: 32.55132/-117.08439), located on the main stem of the Tijuana River.
Temporal Representation: The Tijuana River 5 monitoring station was sampled on May 31, 2005 and April 10, 2006.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Quality control for the chemical analysis portion of this study was conducted in accordance with the California's Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program.
QAPP Information Reference(s): 2002. Quality Assurance Management Plan for the State of California's Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program. California Department of Fish and Game, Monterey, CA
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 76951, Benthic Community Effects
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 76810
 
Pollutant: Toxicity
LOE Subgroup: Toxicity
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Preservation of Areas of Special Biological Significance
 
Number of Samples: 19
Number of Exceedances: 19
 
Data and Information Type: TOXICITY TESTING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Nineteen samples were collected to test for toxicity. Nineteen of the 19 samples exhibited statistically significant toxicity. The toxicity tests that exhibited significant toxicity included survival of Hyalella azteca and survival and reproduction of Ceriodaphnia dubia.
Data Reference: Data for Various Pollutants from the County of San Diego Copermittees Receiving Waters Monitoring and Reporting Program, 2001-2008.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: All waters shall be maintained free of toxic substances in concentrations that are toxic to, or that produce detrimental physiological responses in human, plant, animal, or aquatic life
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: Toxicity is defined as a statistically significant effect in the sample exposure compared to the control using EPA-recommended hypothesis testing. The t-test is used to determine if there is a statistically significant decrease in organism response in the sample as compared to the control.
Guideline Reference: Methods for Measuring the Acute Toxicity of Effluents and Receiving Waters to Freshwater and Marine Organisms, Fifth Edition. EPA-821-R-02-012
Guideline Reference: Short-term Methods for Estimating the Chronic Toxicity of Effluents and Receiving Waters to Freshwater Organisms. Fourth Edition. Office of Water, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Washington, D.C. EPA-821-R-02-013
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at station 911TJR-MLS Tijuana River.
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected from 2002 to 2008.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: The data was collected under the County of San Diego Co-Permittees Receiving Waters Urban Runoff Monitoring and Reporting Program (Order No. 2007-01). Data quality is good.
QAPP Information Reference(s): e-mail clarifying QAPP information
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 76951, Benthic Community Effects
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 7507
 
Pollutant: Toxicity
LOE Subgroup: Toxicity
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 15
Number of Exceedances: 15
 
Data and Information Type: Ambient toxicity testing (chronic)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Toxicity was observed in the following tests:
Hyalella azteca growth and survival test- Five of 15 samples collected were found to be toxic.
(Ceriodaphnia dubia test -15 of 15 samples were found to be toxic.)

Ceriodaphnia dubia; All 15 samples were toxic according to results in the San Diego County Municipal Copermittees Annual Progress Report, 2007.

Samples from the river were collected from January 2002 through February 2006.
Data Reference: Urban Runoff Monitoring, Volume 1- Final Report To request a file review please contact the San Diego Regional Board receptionist. They may be reached by phone at (619) 516-1990, by email at rb9_records@waterboards.ca.gov, by fax at (619) 516-1994, or mail your request to: California Regional Water Quality Control Board Attention: File Review Request 2375 Northside Drive, Suite 100 San Diego, CA 92108 The ECM document handle is #2733059
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: From the Basin Plan, all waters shall be free of toxic substances that are toxic to, or that produce detrimental physiological responses in human, plant, animal, or aquatic life.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: Samples were found to exhibit toxicity when the No Observed Effect Concentration (NOEC) or median lethal concentration (LC50) for any given species was estimated to be less than 100% of the test sample concentration.
Guideline Reference: Waste Discharge Requirements for Discharges of Urban Runoff From the Municipal Separate Storm Sewer Systems Draining the Watersheds of the County of San Diego, the Incorporated Cities of San Diego, the San Diego Unified Port District, and the San Diego County Regional Airport. Order No. R9-2007-0001
 
Spatial Representation: Samples were collected from the from the mass loading station on the Tijuana River and Hollister Street Bridge.
Temporal Representation: Samples from the river were collected from January 2002 through February 2006.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Quality control for the chemical analysis portion of this study was conducted in accordance Weston Solutions
QAPP Information Reference(s): Weston Solutions, 2004. Quality Management Manual. March 2004 (Revised December 2009).
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 76951, Benthic Community Effects
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 7380
 
Pollutant: Ammonia as Nitrogen
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 2
Number of Exceedances: 2
 
Data and Information Type: Fixed station physical/chemical monitoring (conventional pollutants only)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Two of two samples exceed the water quality objective according to results in the Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program Report, 2007. Tijuana River 5 monitoring station was sampled on April 10, 2006 and May 31, 2005.
Data Reference: Monitoring data for Region 9
 
SWAMP Data: SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: From the Basin Plan the WQO for un-ionized ammonia (NH3) for inland surface waters is 0.025mg/L (as N) (RWQCB, 2007).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Samples were collected at the monitoring station Tijuana River 5 on the main stem of the Tijuana River. (Station ID: 911TTJR05; lat/long: 32.55132/-117.08439)
Temporal Representation: Tijuana River 5 monitoring station was sampled on April 10, 2006 and May 31, 2005.
Environmental Conditions: The sampling event in April occurred during high base flow. The May sampling event occurred during declining base flow.
QAPP Information: Quality control for the chemical analysis portion of this study was conducted in accordance with the California's Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program.
QAPP Information Reference(s): 2002. Quality Assurance Management Plan for the State of California's Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program. California Department of Fish and Game, Monterey, CA
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 76951, Benthic Community Effects
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 7193
 
Pollutant: Ammonia as Nitrogen
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 12
Number of Exceedances: 10
 
Data and Information Type: Fixed station physical/chemical monitoring (conventional pollutants only)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Ten of twelve samples collected exceed the water quality objective according to results in the San Diego County Municipal Copermittees Annual Progress Report, 2007. Samples were collected two to four times a year from 2002-2006.
Data Reference: Urban Runoff Monitoring, Volume 1- Final Report To request a file review please contact the San Diego Regional Board receptionist. They may be reached by phone at (619) 516-1990, by email at rb9_records@waterboards.ca.gov, by fax at (619) 516-1994, or mail your request to: California Regional Water Quality Control Board Attention: File Review Request 2375 Northside Drive, Suite 100 San Diego, CA 92108 The ECM document handle is #2733059
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: From the Basin Plan the WQO for un-ionized ammonia (NH3) for inland surface waters is 0.025mg/L (as N) (RWQCB, 2007).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Samples were collected at the mass loading station located near the lower boundary of the watershed under the Hollister Street Bridge in San Diego, downstream from the International Boundary and Water Commission¿s diversion structure and treatment plant.
Temporal Representation: Samples were collected two to four times a year from 2002-2006.
Environmental Conditions: Samples were collected during wet weather.
QAPP Information: QA/QC conducted according to Federal Regulations under requirements of a NPDES permit.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 76951, Benthic Community Effects
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 27032
 
Pollutant: Benthic Community Effects
LOE Subgroup: Adverse Biological Responses
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 4
Number of Exceedances: 4
 
Data and Information Type: Benthic macroinvertebrate surveys
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Four samples of IBI data were taken from May 2003 to May 2007 at one sampling site. Of the total number of samples, all four of the samples exceeded the IBI impairment threshold.
Data Reference: Stream Bioassessment Data. Co-permitee Data. Collected 2002-2007
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: From the San Diego Basin Plan the objective is: All waters shall be maintained free of toxic substances in concentrations that are toxic to, or that produce detrimental physiological responses in human, plant, animal, or aquatic life. Compliance with this objective will be determined by use of indicator organisms, analyses of species diversity, population density, growth anomalies, bioassays of appropriate duration, or other appropriate methods as specified by the Regional Board.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: The Index of Biological Integrity (IBI) is an analytical tool that can be used to assess the biological and physical condition of streams and rivers within a zero to one hundred scoring range: Very Poor 0-19, Poor 20-39, Fair 40-59, Good 60- 79, Very Good 80-100. The IBI score of 39 was set as an impairment threshold because it is a statistical criterion of two standard deviations below the mean reference site score which defines the boundary between 'fair' and 'poor' IBI creek conditions. (Ode, p. 9)
Guideline Reference: A Quantitative Tool for Assessing the Integrity of Southern Coastal California Streams. Environmental Management. Volume 35, number 1 (2005): pp. 1-13
 
Spatial Representation: Samples were collected at one site: TJ-DM&BF on Tijuana River.
Temporal Representation: Sampling occurred during May from 2003 to 2007.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Quality Control for collection and identification was conducted in accordance with the Quality Assurance Manual for Freshwater Bioassessment.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Manual for Freshwater Bioassessment Revision 0
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 76951, Benthic Community Effects
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 72771
 
Pollutant: Benthic-Macroinvertebrate Bioassessments
LOE Subgroup: Population/Community Degradation
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 6
Number of Exceedances: 6
 
Data and Information Type: Benthic macroinvertebrate surveys
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Six of the six samples collected had an IBI score below 40. tr11c NPDES bioassessment
Data Reference: Data for Various Pollutants from the County of San Diego Copermittees Receiving Waters Monitoring and Reporting Program, 2001-2008.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: All waters shall be maintained free of toxic substances in concentrations that are toxic to, or that produce detrimental physiological responses in, human, plant or animal, or aquatic life. Compliance with this objective will be determined by use of indicator organisms, analysis of species diversity, population density, growth anomalies, bioassays of appropriate duration or other appropriate methods as specified by the State or Regional Board. Region 9 Basin Plan.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: The IBI is a multi-metric assessment that employs biological metrics that respond to a habitat or water quality impairment. Each of the biological metrics measured at a site are converted to an IBI score then summed. These cumulative scores are then ranked. For the Southern California IBI, sites with scores below 40 are considered to have impaired conditions.
Guideline Reference: Development of a Benthic Index of Biotic Integrity (B-IBI) for Wadeable Streams in Northern Coastal California and its Application to Regional 305(b) Assessment
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at stations 911TJR-MLS, TJ-BF, TJ-DM, and TJR-TWAS-2 Tijuana River.
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected in May 2003 to 2010.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: The data was collected under the Southern California Regional Watershed Monitoring Program Bioassessment Quality Assurance Project Plan, June 25, 2009.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan for SWAMP Bioassessment and Freshwater Bioassessment.
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 76951, Benthic Community Effects
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 79690
 
Pollutant: Benthic-Macroinvertebrate Bioassessments
LOE Subgroup: Population/Community Degradation
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 4
Number of Exceedances: 2
 
Data and Information Type: Benthic macroinvertebrate surveys
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Four samples were taken at one station on the Tijuana River between the international border and estuary. Two samples were below the 0.79 threshold, and therefore exceeding the water quality objective for the aquatic life beneficial use. Two samples were not scored due to low organism counts. It is important to note that the O/E portion of the CSCI for these sites includes portions of the watershed that are in Mexico. The pMMI portion of the CSCI was examined for all site scores, with all results falling below 0.50, which is outside the reference distribution.
Data Reference: Data for Various Pollutants from the County of San Diego Copermittees Receiving Waters Monitoring and Reporting Program, 2001-2008.
  Region 9 CSCI Scores & Water Body Information
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: All waters shall be maintained free of toxic substances in concentrations that are toxic to, or that produce detrimental physiological responses in, human, plant or animal, or aquatic life. Compliance with this objective will be determined by use of indicator organisms, analysis of species diversity, population density, growth anomalies, bioassays of appropriate duration, or other appropriate methods as specified by the Regional Board. Region 9 Basin Plan.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: The California Stream Condition Index (CSCI) is a biological scoring tool that helps aquatic resource managers translate complex data about benthic macroinvertebrates found living in a stream into an overall measure of stream health. The CSCI score is calculated by comparing the expected condition with actual (observed) results (Rhen, A.C. et al., 2015). CSCI scores range from 0 (highly degraded) to greater than 1 (equivalent to reference). CSCI scoring of biological condition are as follows (per the scientific paper supporting the development of the CSCI scoring tool): greater than or equal to 0.92 = likely intact condition, 0.91 to 0.80 = possibly altered condition, 0.79 to 0.63 = likely altered condition, less than or equal to 0.62 = very likely altered condition. Sites with scores below 0.79 are considered to have exceeded the water quality objective for the aquatic life beneficial use.
Guideline Reference: Development of a Benthic Index of Biotic Integrity (B-IBI) for Wadeable Streams in Northern Coastal California and its Application to Regional 305(b) Assessment
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at stations 911TJR-TWAS-2 (proximal to 911TJR-MLS, TJ-BF, TJ-DM)
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected in from 2003 to 2009
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Data collected following the County of San Diego NPDES MS4 Copermittees Receiving Waters Monitoring and Reporting Program
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan for SWAMP Bioassessment and Freshwater Bioassessment.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Data for Various Pollutants from the County of San Diego Copermittees Receiving Waters Monitoring and Reporting Program, 2001-2008.
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 76951, Benthic Community Effects
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 78145
 
Pollutant: Cadmium
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 19
Number of Exceedances: 3
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed County of San Diego data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 3 of 19 samples exceed the criterion for Cadmium.
Data Reference: Data for Various Pollutants from the County of San Diego Department of Public Works Watershed Protection Program, 2001-2008.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The dissolved cadmium criterion continuous concentration (expressed as a 4-day average) to protect aquatic life in freshwater for dissolved cadmium is 0.0022 mg/L (California Toxics Rule, 2000).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Code of Federal Regulations 40 part 131.38 Establishment of numeric criteria for priority toxic pollutants for the State of California. 7/1/2011 Edition
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Tijuana River was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Tijuana River - 911TJR-MLS]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 1/29/2002-12/16/2008.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: The Quality Assurance Project Plan from Weston, the Regional Monitoring Workgroup Urban Runoff Monitoring Final Report Methods Sections and Statements of Work, and Weston Solutions Inc. Desk Reference for Quality Control Of Work Products were followed.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Weston, The Regional Monitoring Workgroup Urban Runoff Monitoring Final Report Methods Sections and Statements of Work, and Weston Solutions Inc. Desk Reference for Quality Control Of Work Products.
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 76951, Benthic Community Effects
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 77920
 
Pollutant: Chlorpyrifos
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 15
Number of Exceedances: 5
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed County of San Diego data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 5 of 15 samples exceed the criterion for Chlorpyrifos. Four sample results were not used in the assessment because the laboratory data reporting limit(s) was above the objective and therefore the results could not be quantified with the level of certainty required by the Listing Policy.
Data Reference: Data for Various Pollutants from the County of San Diego Department of Public Works Watershed Protection Program, 2001-2008.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: No individual pesticide or combination of pesticides shall be present in the water column, sediments or biota at concentration(s) that adversely affect beneficial uses. Pesticides shall not be present at levels which will bioaccumulate in aquatic organisms to levels which are harmful to human health, wildlife or aquatic organisms (Water Quality Control Plan, San Diego Basin).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: The freshwater criterion continuous concentration to protect aquatic organisms is 0.015 ug/L (Siepmann and Finlayson 2000).
Guideline Reference: Water quality criteria for diazinon and chlorpyrifos. Administrative Report 00-3. Rancho Cordova, CA: Pesticide Investigations Unit, Office of Spills and Response. CA Department of Fish and Game (with minor corrections to significant figures as described in Beaulaurier et al., 2005).
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Tijuana River was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Tijuana River - 911TJR-MLS]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 1/29/2002-12/16/2008.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: The Quality Assurance Project Plan from Weston, the Regional Monitoring Workgroup Urban Runoff Monitoring Final Report Methods Sections and Statements of Work, and Weston Solutions Inc. Desk Reference for Quality Control Of Work Products were followed.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Weston, The Regional Monitoring Workgroup Urban Runoff Monitoring Final Report Methods Sections and Statements of Work, and Weston Solutions Inc. Desk Reference for Quality Control Of Work Products.
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 76951, Benthic Community Effects
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 76789
 
Pollutant: Diazinon
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 19
Number of Exceedances: 18
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed County of San Diego data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 18 of 19 samples exceed the criterion for Diazinon.
Data Reference: Data for Various Pollutants from the County of San Diego Department of Public Works Watershed Protection Program, 2001-2008.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: No individual pesticide or combination of pesticides shall be present in the water column, sediments or biota at concentration(s) that adversely affect beneficial uses. Pesticides shall not be present at levels which will bioaccumulate in aquatic organisms to levels which are harmful to human health, wildlife or aquatic organisms (Water Quality Control Plan, San Diego Basin).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: The freshwater chronic value for diazinon is 0.1 ug/L, expressed as a continuous concentration (Finlayson, 2004).
Guideline Reference: Water quality for diazinon. Memorandum to J. Karkoski, Central Valley RWQCB. Rancho Cordova, CA: Pesticide Investigation Unit, CA Department of Fish and Game
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Tijuana River was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Tijuana River - 911TJR-MLS]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 1/29/2002-12/16/2008.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: The Quality Assurance Project Plan from Weston, the Regional Monitoring Workgroup Urban Runoff Monitoring Final Report Methods Sections and Statements of Work, and Weston Solutions Inc. Desk Reference for Quality Control Of Work Products were followed.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Weston, The Regional Monitoring Workgroup Urban Runoff Monitoring Final Report Methods Sections and Statements of Work, and Weston Solutions Inc. Desk Reference for Quality Control Of Work Products.
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 76951, Benthic Community Effects
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 76797
 
Pollutant: Malathion
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 16
Number of Exceedances: 11
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed County of San Diego data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 11 of 16 samples exceed the criterion for Malathion.
Data Reference: Data for Various Pollutants from the County of San Diego Department of Public Works Watershed Protection Program, 2001-2008.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: No individual pesticide or combination of pesticides shall be present in the water column, sediments or biota at concentration(s) that adversely affect beneficial uses. Pesticides shall not be present at levels which will bioaccumulate in aquatic organisms to levels which are harmful to human health, wildlife or aquatic organisms (Water Quality Control Plan, San Diego Basin).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: The USEPA national ambient water quality criteria for freshwater aquatic life instantaneous maximum for malathion is 0.1 µg/L.
Guideline Reference: National Recommended Water Quality Criteria. United States Environmental Protection Agency. Office of Water. Office of Science and Technology
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Tijuana River was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Tijuana River - 911TJR-MLS]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 11/8/2002-12/16/2008.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: The Quality Assurance Project Plan from Weston, the Regional Monitoring Workgroup Urban Runoff Monitoring Final Report Methods Sections and Statements of Work, and Weston Solutions Inc. Desk Reference for Quality Control Of Work Products were followed.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Weston, The Regional Monitoring Workgroup Urban Runoff Monitoring Final Report Methods Sections and Statements of Work, and Weston Solutions Inc. Desk Reference for Quality Control Of Work Products.
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 76951, Benthic Community Effects
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 7382
 
Pollutant: Phosphorus
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 2
Number of Exceedances: 2
 
Data and Information Type: Fixed station physical/chemical monitoring (conventional pollutants only)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Two of two samples exceed the water quality objective according to results in the Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program Report, 2007. The Tijuana River 5 monitoring station was sampled on May 31, 2005 and April 10, 2006.
Data Reference: Monitoring data for Region 9
 
SWAMP Data: SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water bodies shall not contain biostimulatory substances in concentrations that promote aquatic growth to the extent that such growths cause nuisance or adversely affect beneficial uses. (RWQCB, 2007)
Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin Goal of 0.1 mg/L for total phosphorus in streams and other flowing waters. (RWQCB, 2007)
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Spatial Representation: Samples were collected from the monitoring station Tijuana River 5 (station id: 911TTJR05 lat/long: 32.55132/-117.08439), located on the main stem of the Tijuana River.
Temporal Representation: The Tijuana River 5 monitoring station was sampled on May 31, 2005 and April 10, 2006.
Environmental Conditions: The sampling event in April occurred during high base flow. The May sampling event occurred during declining base flow.
QAPP Information: Quality control for the chemical analysis portion of this study was conducted in accordance with the California's Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program.
QAPP Information Reference(s): 2002. Quality Assurance Management Plan for the State of California's Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program. California Department of Fish and Game, Monterey, CA
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 76951, Benthic Community Effects
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 7381
 
Pollutant: Phosphorus
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 15
Number of Exceedances: 15
 
Data and Information Type: Fixed station physical/chemical monitoring (conventional pollutants only)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: All fifteen samples collected exceed the water quality objective according to results in the San Diego County Municipal Copermittees Annual Progress Report, 2007. Samples were collected two to four times a year from 2001-2006.
Data Reference: Urban Runoff Monitoring, Volume 1- Final Report To request a file review please contact the San Diego Regional Board receptionist. They may be reached by phone at (619) 516-1990, by email at rb9_records@waterboards.ca.gov, by fax at (619) 516-1994, or mail your request to: California Regional Water Quality Control Board Attention: File Review Request 2375 Northside Drive, Suite 100 San Diego, CA 92108 The ECM document handle is #2733059
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water bodies shall not contain biostimulatory substances in concentrations that promote aquatic growth to the extent that such growths cause nuisance or adversely affect beneficial uses. (RWQCB, 2007)
Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin Goal of 0.1 mg/L for total phosphorus in streams and other flowing waters. (RWQCB, 2007)
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Spatial Representation: Samples were collected at the mass loading station located near the lower boundary of the watershed under the Hollister Street Bridge in San Diego, downstream from the International Boundary and Water Commission¿s diversion structure and treatment plant.
Temporal Representation: Samples were collected two to four times a year from 2001-2006.
Environmental Conditions: Samples were collected during wet weather.
QAPP Information: QA/QC conducted according to Weston Solutions QA Plan.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Weston Solutions, 2004. Quality Management Manual. March 2004 (Revised December 2009).
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 76951, Benthic Community Effects
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 7383
 
Pollutant: Total Nitrogen as N
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 15
Number of Exceedances: 15
 
Data and Information Type: Fixed station physical/chemical monitoring (conventional pollutants only)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: All fifteen samples collected exceed the water quality objective according to results in the San Diego County Municipal Copermittees Annual Progress Report, 2007. Samples were collected two to four times a year from 2001-2006.
Data Reference: Urban Runoff Monitoring, Volume 1- Final Report To request a file review please contact the San Diego Regional Board receptionist. They may be reached by phone at (619) 516-1990, by email at rb9_records@waterboards.ca.gov, by fax at (619) 516-1994, or mail your request to: California Regional Water Quality Control Board Attention: File Review Request 2375 Northside Drive, Suite 100 San Diego, CA 92108 The ECM document handle is #2733059
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water bodies shall not contain biostimulatory substances in concentrations that promote aquatic growth to the extent that such growths cause nuisance or adversely affect beneficial uses. (RWQCB, 2007)
A desired goal in order to prevent plant nuisance in streams and other flowing waters appears to be 0.1 mg/L total phosphorus, P. These values are not to be exceeded more than 10% of the time unless studies of the specific water body in question clearly show that water quality objective changes are permissible and changes are approved by the Regional Board. Analogous threshold values have not been set for nitrogen compounds; however, natural ratios of nitrogen to phosphorus are to be determined by surveillance and monitoring and upheld. If data are lacking, a ratio of N:P = 10:1, on a weight to weight basis shall be used. (RWQCB, 2007)
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Spatial Representation: Samples were collected at the mass loading station located near the lower boundary of the watershed under the Hollister Street Bridge in San Diego, downstream from the International Boundary and Water Commission¿s diversion structure and treatment plant.
Temporal Representation: Samples were collected two to four times a year from 2001-2006.
Environmental Conditions: Samples were collected during wet weather.
QAPP Information: QA/QC conducted according to Federal Regulations under requirements of a NPDES permit.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 76951, Benthic Community Effects
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 21201
 
Pollutant: Selenium
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 2
Number of Exceedances: 2
 
Data and Information Type: Fixed station physical/chemical (conventional plus toxic pollutants)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Two water samples were collected at Tijuana River station 911TTJR05 on May 2004, September 2004, February 2005, and April 2005.
Data Reference: Monitoring data for Region 9
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: CTR Freshwater Chronic (CCC) 5 ug/L. (U.S. EPA, 2000).
All waters shall be maintained free of toxic
substances in concentrations that are toxic to, or
that produce detrimental physiological responses
in human, plant, animal, or aquatic life (RWQCB, 2007).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Standards 2000. Establishment of numeric criteria for priority toxic pollutants for the State of California: Rules and regulations. Federal Register Vol. 65, No. 97. Washington, D.C.: Environmental Protection Agency
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Water samples were collected at Tijuana River station (911TTJR05).
Temporal Representation: Samples were collected on May 2004, September 2004, February 2005, and April 2005.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Quality control for the chemical analysis portion of this study was conducted in accordance with the California's Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program.
QAPP Information Reference(s): 2002. Quality Assurance Management Plan for the State of California's Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program. California Department of Fish and Game, Monterey, CA
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 76951, Benthic Community Effects
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 7384
 
Pollutant: Total Nitrogen as N
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 2
Number of Exceedances: 2
 
Data and Information Type: Fixed station physical/chemical monitoring (conventional pollutants only)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Two of two samples exceed the water quality objective according to reuslts in the Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program Report, 2007. The Tijuana River 5 monitoring station was sampled on May 31, 2005 and April 10, 2006.
Data Reference: Monitoring data for Region 9
 
SWAMP Data: SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water bodies shall not contain biostimulatory substances in concentrations that promote aquatic growth to the extent that such growths cause nuisance or adversely affect beneficial uses. (RWQCB, 2007)
A desired goal in order to prevent plant nuisance in streams and other flowing waters appears to be 0.1 mg/L total phosphorus, P. These values are not to be exceeded more than 10% of the time unless studies of the specific water body in question clearly show that water quality objective changes are permissible and changes are approved by the Regional Board. Analogous threshold values have not been set for nitrogen compounds; however, natural ratios of nitrogen to phosphorus are to be determined by surveillance and monitoring and upheld. If data are lacking, a ratio of N:P = 10:1, on a weight to weight basis shall be used. (RWQCB, 2007)
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Spatial Representation: Samples were collected from the monitoring station Tijuana River 5 (station id: 911TTJR05 lat/long: 32.55132/-117.08439), located on the main stem of the Tijuana River.
Temporal Representation: The Tijuana River 5 monitoring station was sampled on May 31, 2005 and April 10, 2006.
Environmental Conditions: The sampling event in April occurred during high base flow. The May sampling event occurred during declining base flow.
QAPP Information: Quality control for the chemical analysis portion of this study was conducted in accordance with the California's Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program.
QAPP Information Reference(s): 2002. Quality Assurance Management Plan for the State of California's Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program. California Department of Fish and Game, Monterey, CA
 
 
DECISION ID
74679
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
Pollutant: Eutrophic
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: 2019
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: Region 9 data was not included in the 2012 Integrated Report so all decisions are carried over from the 2010 listing cycle.

303(d) listing decisions made prior to 2006 were not held in an assessment database. This is a placeholder decision for a 303(d) listing made in a previous assessment cycle. 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 74679, Eutrophic
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 4740
 
Pollutant: Eutrophic
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Not Recorded
 
Beneficial Use: Warm 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):
 
 
DECISION ID
77817
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
Pollutant: Low Dissolved Oxygen
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: 2019
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: Region 9 data was not included in the 2012 Integrated Report so all decisions are carried over from the 2010 listing cycle.

303(d) listing decisions made prior to 2006 were not held in an assessment database. This is a placeholder decision for a 303(d) listing made in a previous assessment cycle. 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 77817, Low Dissolved Oxygen
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 4742
 
Pollutant: Low Dissolved Oxygen
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Not Recorded
 
Beneficial Use: Warm 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):
 
 
DECISION ID
86255
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
Pollutant: Malathion
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: 2025
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.

One line of evidence is available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. Eleven of the 16 samples exceed the criteria.

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. Eleven of 16 samples exceed the criteria, and this exceeds the allowable frequency listed in Table 3.1 of the Listing Policy.
4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are 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 86255, Malathion
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 76797
 
Pollutant: Malathion
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 16
Number of Exceedances: 11
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed County of San Diego data for Tijuana River to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 11 of 16 samples exceed the criterion for Malathion.
Data Reference: Data for Various Pollutants from the County of San Diego Department of Public Works Watershed Protection Program, 2001-2008.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: No individual pesticide or combination of pesticides shall be present in the water column, sediments or biota at concentration(s) that adversely affect beneficial uses. Pesticides shall not be present at levels which will bioaccumulate in aquatic organisms to levels which are harmful to human health, wildlife or aquatic organisms (Water Quality Control Plan, San Diego Basin).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: The USEPA national ambient water quality criteria for freshwater aquatic life instantaneous maximum for malathion is 0.1 µg/L.
Guideline Reference: National Recommended Water Quality Criteria. United States Environmental Protection Agency. Office of Water. Office of Science and Technology
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Tijuana River was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Tijuana River - 911TJR-MLS]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 11/8/2002-12/16/2008.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: The Quality Assurance Project Plan from Weston, the Regional Monitoring Workgroup Urban Runoff Monitoring Final Report Methods Sections and Statements of Work, and Weston Solutions Inc. Desk Reference for Quality Control Of Work Products were followed.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Weston, The Regional Monitoring Workgroup Urban Runoff Monitoring Final Report Methods Sections and Statements of Work, and Weston Solutions Inc. Desk Reference for Quality Control Of Work Products.
 
 
DECISION ID
76067
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
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: 2019
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: 303(d) listing decisions made prior to 2006 were not held in an assessment database. This is a placeholder decision for a CWA section 303(d) Listing made in a previous assessment cycle. 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 76067, Pesticides
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 4743
 
Pollutant: Pesticides
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Not Recorded
 
Beneficial Use: Warm 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):
 
 
DECISION ID
77353
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
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: 2021
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: The decision has not changed from the previous listing cycle. No new data were assessed for the current listing cycle. Therefore, the previous conclusion remains unchanged, and is as follows:

This pollutant is being considered for placement on the section 303(d) list under section 3.7.2 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.7.2 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. Photos were collected by the Tijuana River National Estuarine Research Reserve. The photos were reviewed to assess sedimenation problem in the Tijuana River valley and estuary Photos from February 13, 2008 Powerpoint presentation exhibit the sedimentation problem within the watershed. Aerial and ground level photographs show the changes that have occurred due to large storm events and over time. The occurrence of conditions judged to cause impairment and therefore exceed the water quality objective.

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

This conclusion is based on the staff findings that:
1. The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy.
2. The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy.
3. The occurrence of conditions judged to cause impairment and therefore 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: 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 77353, Sedimentation/Siltation
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 27012
 
Pollutant: Sedimentation/Siltation
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Nuisance
Matrix: Sediment
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 0
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: Occurrence of conditions judged to cause impairment
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Photos were collected by the Tijuana River National Estuarine Research Reserve. The photos were reviewed to assess sedimentation problem in the Tijuana River valley and estuary

Photos from February 13, 2008 Powerpoint presentation exhibit the sedimentation problem within the watershed. Aerial and ground level photographs show the changes that have occurred due to large storm events and over time.
Data Reference: Photographs of the sedimentation problem in the Tijuana River valley and estuary
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Waters shall not contain suspended and settleable solids in concentrations of solids that cause nuisance or adversely affect beneficial uses.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Information and photographs were collected at various locations in the Tijuana River watershed.
Temporal Representation: Information and photographs were collected at various locations in the Tijuana River watershed all predating February 2008. One set of photos were before and after photographs dated May 10, 2003 and January 30, 2005.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: None
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
 
DECISION ID
69841
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
Pollutant: Solids
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: 2019
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: Region 9 data was not included in the 2012 Integrated Report so all decisions are carried over from the 2010 listing cycle.

303(d) listing decisions made prior to 2006 were not held in an assessment database. This is a placeholder decision for a 303(d) listing made in a previous assessment cycle. 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 69841, Solids
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 4744
 
Pollutant: Solids
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Not Recorded
 
Beneficial Use: Warm 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):
 
 
DECISION ID
76722
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
Pollutant: Surfactants (MBAS)
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: 2021
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: The decision has not changed from the previous listing cycle. No new data were assessed for the current listing cycle. Therefore, the previous conclusion remains unchanged, and is as follows:

This pollutant is being considered for placement on the section 303(d) list under section 3.2 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.2 a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status.

One line of evidence is available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. Six of 15 of the samples exceed the Basin Plan water quality objective for surfactants (MBAS).

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

This conclusion is based on the staff findings that:
1. The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy.
2. The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy.
3. Six of 15 of the samples exceed the Basin Plan water quality objective for surfactants (MBAS) 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: 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 76722, Surfactants (MBAS)
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 7512
 
Pollutant: Surfactants (MBAS)
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Water Contact Recreation
 
Number of Samples: 15
Number of Exceedances: 6
 
Data and Information Type: Fixed station physical/chemical monitoring (conventional pollutants only)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Six of fifteen samples collected exceed the water quality objective. Since only four samples were collected at most in a one year period, any exceedance results in an annual exceedance frequency greater than 10%. All five years in which this water body was monitored found exceedances more than 10% of the time according to results in the San Diego County Municipal Copermittees Annual Progress Report, 2007. Samples were collected three times a year from 2001-2006.
Data Reference: Urban Runoff Monitoring, Volume 1- Final Report To request a file review please contact the San Diego Regional Board receptionist. They may be reached by phone at (619) 516-1990, by email at rb9_records@waterboards.ca.gov, by fax at (619) 516-1994, or mail your request to: California Regional Water Quality Control Board Attention: File Review Request 2375 Northside Drive, Suite 100 San Diego, CA 92108 The ECM document handle is #2733059
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: From the Basin Plan the WQO for methylene blue ¿ activated substances (MBAS) for inland surface waters is 0.5mg/L. This concentration is not to be exceeded more than 10% of the time (RWQCB, 2007).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Samples were collected at the mass loading station located near the lower boundary of the watershed under the Hollister Street Bridge in San Diego, downstream from the International Boundary and Water Commission¿s diversion structure and treatment plant.
Temporal Representation: Samples were collected three times a year from 2001-2006.
Environmental Conditions: Samples were collected during wet weather.
QAPP Information: QA/QC conducted according to Federal Regulations under requirements of a NPDES permit.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
 
DECISION ID
77084
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
Pollutant: Synthetic Organics
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: 2019
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: 303(d) listing decisions made prior to 2006 were not held in an assessment database. This is a placeholder decision for a CWA section 303(d) Listing made in a previous assessment cycle. 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 77084, Synthetic Organics
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 4745
 
Pollutant: Synthetic Organics
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Not Specified
Fraction: Not Recorded
 
Beneficial Use: Municipal & Domestic Supply
 
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
76763
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
Pollutant: Total Nitrogen as N
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 | Natural Sources | Unknown Nonpoint Source | Urban Runoff/Storm Sewers
Expected TMDL Completion Date: 2025
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.

Two lines of evidence are available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. Seventeen of the 17 samples exceed the objective.

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. Seventeen of 17 samples exceed the objective and this exceeds the allowable frequency listed in Table 3.1 of the Listing Policy.
4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are 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 76763, Total Nitrogen as N
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 7384
 
Pollutant: Total Nitrogen as N
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 2
Number of Exceedances: 2
 
Data and Information Type: Fixed station physical/chemical monitoring (conventional pollutants only)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Two of two samples exceed the water quality objective according to reuslts in the Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program Report, 2007. The Tijuana River 5 monitoring station was sampled on May 31, 2005 and April 10, 2006.
Data Reference: Monitoring data for Region 9
 
SWAMP Data: SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water bodies shall not contain biostimulatory substances in concentrations that promote aquatic growth to the extent that such growths cause nuisance or adversely affect beneficial uses. (RWQCB, 2007)
A desired goal in order to prevent plant nuisance in streams and other flowing waters appears to be 0.1 mg/L total phosphorus, P. These values are not to be exceeded more than 10% of the time unless studies of the specific water body in question clearly show that water quality objective changes are permissible and changes are approved by the Regional Board. Analogous threshold values have not been set for nitrogen compounds; however, natural ratios of nitrogen to phosphorus are to be determined by surveillance and monitoring and upheld. If data are lacking, a ratio of N:P = 10:1, on a weight to weight basis shall be used. (RWQCB, 2007)
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Spatial Representation: Samples were collected from the monitoring station Tijuana River 5 (station id: 911TTJR05 lat/long: 32.55132/-117.08439), located on the main stem of the Tijuana River.
Temporal Representation: The Tijuana River 5 monitoring station was sampled on May 31, 2005 and April 10, 2006.
Environmental Conditions: The sampling event in April occurred during high base flow. The May sampling event occurred during declining base flow.
QAPP Information: Quality control for the chemical analysis portion of this study was conducted in accordance with the California's Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program.
QAPP Information Reference(s): 2002. Quality Assurance Management Plan for the State of California's Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program. California Department of Fish and Game, Monterey, CA
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 76763, Total Nitrogen as N
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 7383
 
Pollutant: Total Nitrogen as N
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 15
Number of Exceedances: 15
 
Data and Information Type: Fixed station physical/chemical monitoring (conventional pollutants only)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: All fifteen samples collected exceed the water quality objective according to results in the San Diego County Municipal Copermittees Annual Progress Report, 2007. Samples were collected two to four times a year from 2001-2006.
Data Reference: Urban Runoff Monitoring, Volume 1- Final Report To request a file review please contact the San Diego Regional Board receptionist. They may be reached by phone at (619) 516-1990, by email at rb9_records@waterboards.ca.gov, by fax at (619) 516-1994, or mail your request to: California Regional Water Quality Control Board Attention: File Review Request 2375 Northside Drive, Suite 100 San Diego, CA 92108 The ECM document handle is #2733059
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water bodies shall not contain biostimulatory substances in concentrations that promote aquatic growth to the extent that such growths cause nuisance or adversely affect beneficial uses. (RWQCB, 2007)
A desired goal in order to prevent plant nuisance in streams and other flowing waters appears to be 0.1 mg/L total phosphorus, P. These values are not to be exceeded more than 10% of the time unless studies of the specific water body in question clearly show that water quality objective changes are permissible and changes are approved by the Regional Board. Analogous threshold values have not been set for nitrogen compounds; however, natural ratios of nitrogen to phosphorus are to be determined by surveillance and monitoring and upheld. If data are lacking, a ratio of N:P = 10:1, on a weight to weight basis shall be used. (RWQCB, 2007)
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Spatial Representation: Samples were collected at the mass loading station located near the lower boundary of the watershed under the Hollister Street Bridge in San Diego, downstream from the International Boundary and Water Commission¿s diversion structure and treatment plant.
Temporal Representation: Samples were collected two to four times a year from 2001-2006.
Environmental Conditions: Samples were collected during wet weather.
QAPP Information: QA/QC conducted according to Federal Regulations under requirements of a NPDES permit.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
 
DECISION ID
77421
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
Pollutant: Trace Elements
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: 2019
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: Region 9 data was not included in the 2012 Integrated Report so all decisions are carried over from the 2010 listing cycle.

303(d) listing decisions made prior to 2006 were not held in an assessment database. This is a placeholder decision for a 303(d) listing made in a previous assessment cycle. 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 77421, Trace Elements
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 4667
 
Pollutant: Trace Elements
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Not Recorded
 
Beneficial Use: Warm 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):
 
 
DECISION ID
69701
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
Pollutant: Trash
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: 2019
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: Region 9 data was not included in the 2012 Integrated Report so all decisions are carried over from the 2010 listing cycle.

303(d) listing decisions made prior to 2006 were not held in an assessment database. This is a placeholder decision for a 303(d) listing made in a previous assessment cycle. 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 69701, Trash
Region 9     
Tijuana River
 
LOE ID: 4668
 
Pollutant: Trash
LOE Subgroup: Visual
Matrix: Not Specified
Fraction: Not Recorded
 
Beneficial Use: Non-Contact Recreation
 
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):