Draft California 2024 Integrated Report (303(d) List/305(b) Report)

Supporting Information

Regional Board 9 - San Diego Region

Water Body Name: Santa Margarita River (Lower)
Water Body ID: CAR9021100019980911161346
Water Body Type: River & Stream
 
DECISION ID
148281
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
Pollutant: Benthic Community Effects
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)(2020)
Revision Status Revised
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 delisting from the CWA Section 303(d) list under sections 4.9 and 4.1 of the Listing Policy.

Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence does not provide sufficient justification for removing Benthic Community Effects in this water segment 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. Pursuant to section 4.9 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. One of one benthic-macroinvertebrate samples from the 2020 Listing Cycle exceed the California Stream Condition Index (CSCI) impairment threshold. These data indicate that the waterbody remains impaired for Benthic Community Effects.
4. Pursuant to section 4.9 of the Listing Policy, the water segment has associated pollutant(s) samples that exceed water quality objectives.
5. Pursuant to section 4.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are being 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 148281, Benthic Community Effects
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
LOE ID: 79700
 
Pollutant: Benthic-Macroinvertebrate Bioassessments
LOE Subgroup: Population/Community Degradation
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 6
Number of Exceedances: 2
 
Data and Information Type: Benthic macroinvertebrate surveys
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Six samples were taken at one station in the Santa Margarita River below De Luz Creek. Two had CSCI scores below the 0.79 threshold, and therefore exceed the water quality objective for the aquatic life beneficial use.
Data Reference: Data for Various Pollutants from the County of San Diego Copermittees Receiving Waters Monitoring and Reporting Program, 2001-2008.
  RWB9 Stormwater Monitoring Council CY 2009
  Region 9 CSCI Scores & Water Body Information
 
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 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: Bioassessment in complex environments: designing an index for consistent meaning in different settings
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at the following stations: 902SMR-CP
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected from 2003 to 2007.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: The data was collected under the County of San Diego NPDES MS4 Copermittees Receiving Waters Monitoring and Reporting Program.
QAPP Information Reference(s): e-mail clarifying QAPP information
QAPP Information Reference(s): Data for Various Pollutants from the County of San Diego Copermittees Receiving Waters Monitoring and Reporting Program, 2001-2008.
QAPP Information Reference(s): RWB9 Stormwater Monitoring Council CY 2009
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 148281, Benthic Community Effects
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
LOE ID: 7497
 
Pollutant: Total Nitrogen as N
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: Fixed station physical/chemical monitoring (conventional pollutants only)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Five of six samples exceed the water quality objective according to results in the San Diego County Municipal Copermittees Annual Progress Report, 2007. Samples were collected one to two times a year from 2001-2006 with the exception of the 2004-2005 monitoring year.
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 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 on Camp Pendleton under the Basilone Road Bridge.
Temporal Representation: Samples were collected one to two times a year from 2001-2006, with the exception of the 2004-2005 monitoring year.
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 148281, Benthic Community Effects
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
LOE ID: 7498
 
Pollutant: Total Nitrogen as N
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 5
Number of Exceedances: 3
 
Data and Information Type: Fixed station physical/chemical monitoring (conventional pollutants only)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Three of five samples exceed the water quality objective of 1.0 mg/L for total nitrogen according to results in the Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program Report, 2007. Samples were collected one to two times a year from 2001-2006, with the exception of the 2004-2005 monitoring year.
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 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 on Camp Pendleton under the Basilone Road Bridge.
Temporal Representation: Samples were collected one to two times a year from 2001-2006, with the exception of the 2004-2005 monitoring year.
Environmental Conditions: Samples were collected during wet weather.
QAPP Information: QA/QC conducted according to 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 148281, Benthic Community Effects
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
LOE ID: 7500
 
Pollutant: Phosphorus
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 5
Number of Exceedances: 5
 
Data and Information Type: Fixed station physical/chemical monitoring (conventional pollutants only)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: All five samples exceed the water quality objective. according to results in the San Diego County Municipal Copermittees Annual Progress Report, 2007. Samples were collected on the following dates: January 14, April 15, twice on May 13, and September 9, 2003.
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.
Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin has a 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: The sampling site lies on the lower Santa Margarita River (Santa Margarita 10 (902SSMR10 lat/long: 33.23669/-117.39175)).
Temporal Representation: Samples were collected on the following dates: January 14, April 15, twice on May 13, and September 9, 2003.
Environmental Conditions: The first two sampling events occurred between storm events and high base flow respectively. The third and fourth occurred during declining and minimum base flow respectively.
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):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 148281, Benthic Community Effects
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
LOE ID: 76544
 
Pollutant: Toxicity
LOE Subgroup: Toxicity
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 11
Number of Exceedances: 5
 
Data and Information Type: TOXICITY TESTING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Eleven samples were collected to test for toxicity. Five of the eleven samples exhibited statistically significant toxicity. The toxicity tests included survival of Hyalella azteca, growth of Selenastrum capriconutum 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 902SMR-MLS - Santa Margarita River.
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected from 2001 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 148281, Benthic Community Effects
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
LOE ID: 77848
 
Pollutant: Chlorpyrifos
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 3
Number of Exceedances: 2
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: State Water Board staff assessed County of San Diego data for Santa Margarita River (Lower) to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 2 of 3 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 0.014 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 Santa Margarita River (Lower) was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Santa Margarita River - 902SMR-MLS]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 11/29/2001-2/28/2006.
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 used.
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 148281, Benthic Community Effects
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
LOE ID: 7499
 
Pollutant: Phosphorus
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: Fixed station physical/chemical monitoring (conventional pollutants only)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Five of six samples exceed the water quality objective according to results in the San Diego County Municipal Copermittees Annual Progress Report, 2007. Samples were collected one to two times a year from 2001-2006, with the exception of the 2004-2005 monitoring year.
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 Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin has a 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 on Camp Pendleton under the Basilone Road Bridge.
Temporal Representation: Samples were collected one to two times a year from 2001-2006, with the exception of the 2004-2005 monitoring year.
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 148281, Benthic Community Effects
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
LOE ID: 7501
 
Pollutant: Toxicity
LOE Subgroup: Toxicity
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 3
Number of Exceedances: 1
 
Data and Information Type: Ambient toxicity testing (chronic)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Selenastrum capricornutum-
Three samples were collected with one samples showing significant toxicity levels (SL) as determined by the Selenastrum capricornutum growth test.

Ceriodaphnia dubia-
Two samples were collected and one samples show significant toxicity levels (SL) as determined by the Ceriodaphnia dubia survival/reproductive test. A fourth sample was collected and tested however the sample temperature was received outside acceptable limits upon laboratory receipt and the results were not used in this assessment.
Hyalella azteca-
Two samples were collected and one sample shows significant toxicity levels (SL) as determined by the Hyalella azteca growth/survival test according to results in the Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program Report, 2007. Samples were collected on the following dates: January 14, April 15, May 13, and September 9, 2003.
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
  Monitoring data for Region 9
 
SWAMP Data: 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 at the monitoring station Santa Margarita 10 located on the main stem of the Lower Santa Margarita River.
Temporal Representation: Samples were collected on the following dates: January 14, April 15, May 13, and September 9, 2003.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Quality control for the chemical analysis portion of this study 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 148281, Benthic Community Effects
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
LOE ID: 215822
 
Pollutant: Benthic-Macroinvertebrate Bioassessments
LOE Subgroup: Population/Community Degradation
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 1
Number of Exceedances: 1
 
Data and Information Type: Benthic macroinvertebrate surveys
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed data for 902S00117 to determine beneficial use support and the results are as follows: 1 of 1 samples exceeded the threshold. CSCI scores were from 0.7168 to 0.7168 .
Data Reference: California Stream Condition Index Scores for the 2020 Integrated Report
 
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 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: Bioassessment in complex environments: designing an index for consistent meaning in different settings
 
Spatial Representation: Samples were collected from station 902S00117
Temporal Representation: Samples were collected from 5/25/2010 to 5/25/2010.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Data collected following SWAMP QA protocols.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Program Plans, Quality Assurance Project Plans, and Standard Operating Procedures for the SWAMP program
 
 
DECISION ID
148263
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
Pollutant: Chlorpyrifos
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)(2020)
Revision Status Revised
Sources: A Source Unknown
Expected TMDL Completion Date: 2029
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 this pollutant. Two of 16 samples exceed the water quality threshold for the WARM/COLD beneficial use. Zero of three samples exceed the water quality threshold for the WARM beneficial use.

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. Two of three samples exceeded the water quality threshold for the WARM/COLD beneficial use, 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 148263, Chlorpyrifos
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
LOE ID: 77848
 
Pollutant: Chlorpyrifos
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 3
Number of Exceedances: 2
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: State Water Board staff assessed County of San Diego data for Santa Margarita River (Lower) to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 2 of 3 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 0.014 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 Santa Margarita River (Lower) was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Santa Margarita River - 902SMR-MLS]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 11/29/2001-2/28/2006.
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 used.
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 148263, Chlorpyrifos
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
LOE ID: 76475
 
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 Santa Margarita River (Lower) 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 Santa Margarita River (Lower) was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Santa Margarita at Basilone Rd - 902SSMR07]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected on a single day 5/21/2008.
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 148263, Chlorpyrifos
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
LOE ID: 77851
 
Pollutant: Chlorpyrifos
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Municipal & Domestic Supply
 
Number of Samples: 4
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 data for Santa Margarita River (Lower) to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 4 samples exceed the criterion for Chlorpyrifos.
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 drinking water health advisory for chlorpyrifos is 2.1 µg/L.
Guideline Reference: 2011 Edition of the Drinking Water Standards and Health Advisories
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Santa Margarita River (Lower) was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Santa Margarita River - 902SMR-MLS]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 11/29/2001-2/28/2006.
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 used.
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
128036
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
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: 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 4.3 of the Listing Policy. Under this section a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status.

Zero lines of evidence is available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. This sample size is insufficient to determine beneficial use support with the statistical power and confidence required by the Listing Policy; the minimum sample size necessary to delist is 26.

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. No new data is available, and this sample size is insufficient information in Table 4.2.
4. Pursuant to section 4.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are 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 128036, Indicator Bacteria
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
LOE ID: 7503
 
Pollutant: Enterococcus
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Water Contact Recreation
 
Number of Samples: 5
Number of Exceedances: 5
 
Data and Information Type: PWS pathogen monitoring (ambient water)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: All five samples collected exceed the water quality objective according to results in the San Diego County Municipal Copermittees Annual Progress Report, 2007. Samples were collected one to two times a year from 2001 - 2006, with the exception of the 2004-2005 monitoring year.
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 bacteriological criteria for enterococcus sets a maximum limit at 61 colonies per 100mL (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 on Camp Pendleton under the Basilone Road Bridge.
Temporal Representation: Samples were collected one to two times a year from 2001 - 2006, with the exception of the 2004-2005 monitoring year.
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 128036, Indicator Bacteria
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
LOE ID: 76465
 
Pollutant: Fecal Coliform
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Non-Contact Recreation
 
Number of Samples: 4
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PATHOGEN MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed County of San Diego data for Santa Margarita River (Lower) to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 4 samples exceed the criterion for Coliform, Fecal.
Data Reference: Data for Various Pollutants from Bight, 2008.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: In waters designated for non contact recreation (REC 2), the fecal coliform concentration shall not exceed 4000 MPN/100 ml (Basin Plan).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Santa Margarita River (Lower) was collected at 4 monitoring sites [ Santa Margarita Estuary, Santa Margarita Estuary, Santa Margarita Estuary, Santa Margarita Estuary]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected on a single day 8/29/2008.
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 Southern California Bight was followed.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight.
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 128036, Indicator Bacteria
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
LOE ID: 76464
 
Pollutant: Fecal Coliform
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Water Contact Recreation
 
Number of Samples: 4
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PATHOGEN MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed County of San Diego data for Santa Margarita River (Lower) to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 4 samples exceed the criterion for Coliform, Fecal.
Data Reference: Data for Various Pollutants from Bight, 2008.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: In waters designated for water contact recreation (REC I), the fecal coliform concentration shall not exceed 400 MPN/100 ml.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Santa Margarita River (Lower) was collected at 4 monitoring sites [ Santa Margarita Estuary, Santa Margarita Estuary, Santa Margarita Estuary, Santa Margarita Estuary]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected on a single day 8/29/2008.
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 Southern California Bight was followed.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight.
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 128036, Indicator Bacteria
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
LOE ID: 7504
 
Pollutant: Fecal Coliform
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Water Contact Recreation
 
Number of Samples: 5
Number of Exceedances: 5
 
Data and Information Type: PWS pathogen monitoring (ambient water)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: All five samples collected exceed the water quality objective according to resuls in the San Diego County Municipal Copermittees Annual Progress Report, 2007. Samples were collected one to two times a year from 2001 - 2006, with the exception of the 2004-2005 monitoring year.
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: No more than 10% of the samples during any 30-day period for waters designated for contact recreation shall exceed 400 colonies per 100 ml (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 on Camp Pendleton under the Basilone Road Bridge.
Temporal Representation: Samples were collected one to two times a year from 2001 - 2006, with the exception of the 2004-2005 monitoring year.
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 128036, Indicator Bacteria
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
LOE ID: 76542
 
Pollutant: Total Coliform
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Water Contact Recreation
 
Number of Samples: 4
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PATHOGEN MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed County of San Diego data for Santa Margarita River (Lower) to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 4 samples exceed the criterion for Coliform, Total.
Data Reference: Data for Various Pollutants from Bight, 2008.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: All waters shall be maintained free of toxicsubstances in concentrations which are toxic to,or which produce detrimental physiologicalresponses in human, plant, animal, or indigenousaquatic life (Basin Plan).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: In waters designated for water contact recreation (REC I), the total coliform concentration shall not exceed 10000 MPN/100 ml (CDPH 2006).
Guideline Reference: Draft Guidance for Fresh Water Beaches. Last Update: May 8, 2006. Initial Draft: November 1997. California Department of Public Health.
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Santa Margarita River (Lower) was collected at 4 monitoring sites [ Santa Margarita Estuary, Santa Margarita Estuary, Santa Margarita Estuary, Santa Margarita Estuary]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected on a single day 8/29/2008.
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 Southern California Bight was followed.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight.
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 128036, Indicator Bacteria
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
LOE ID: 76463
 
Pollutant: Enterococcus
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Water Contact Recreation
 
Number of Samples: 4
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PATHOGEN MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed County of San Diego data for Santa Margarita River (Lower) to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 4 samples exceed the criterion for Enterococci.
Data Reference: Data for Various Pollutants from Bight, 2008.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Samples shall not exceed 61 organisms per 100 ml for enterococcus in waters designated for REC I beneficial use (Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Santa Margarita River (Lower) was collected at 4 monitoring sites [ Santa Margarita Estuary, Santa Margarita Estuary, Santa Margarita Estuary, Santa Margarita Estuary]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected on a single day 8/29/2008.
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 Southern California Bight was followed.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight.
 
 
DECISION ID
148361
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
Pollutant: Nitrogen
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)(2020)
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. Eight of the 11 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 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 the 11 samples exceed 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 148361, Nitrogen
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
LOE ID: 7498
 
Pollutant: Total Nitrogen as N
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 5
Number of Exceedances: 3
 
Data and Information Type: Fixed station physical/chemical monitoring (conventional pollutants only)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Three of five samples exceed the water quality objective of 1.0 mg/L for total nitrogen according to results in the Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program Report, 2007. Samples were collected one to two times a year from 2001-2006, with the exception of the 2004-2005 monitoring year.
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 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 on Camp Pendleton under the Basilone Road Bridge.
Temporal Representation: Samples were collected one to two times a year from 2001-2006, with the exception of the 2004-2005 monitoring year.
Environmental Conditions: Samples were collected during wet weather.
QAPP Information: QA/QC conducted according to 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 148361, Nitrogen
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
LOE ID: 7497
 
Pollutant: Total Nitrogen as N
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: Fixed station physical/chemical monitoring (conventional pollutants only)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Five of six samples exceed the water quality objective according to results in the San Diego County Municipal Copermittees Annual Progress Report, 2007. Samples were collected one to two times a year from 2001-2006 with the exception of the 2004-2005 monitoring year.
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 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 on Camp Pendleton under the Basilone Road Bridge.
Temporal Representation: Samples were collected one to two times a year from 2001-2006, with the exception of the 2004-2005 monitoring year.
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
148274
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
Pollutant: Phosphorus
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)(2020)
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.

Two lines of evidence are available in the administrative record to assess pollutant. Ten of the 11 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. Ten of the 11 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 148274, Phosphorus
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
LOE ID: 7499
 
Pollutant: Phosphorus
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: Fixed station physical/chemical monitoring (conventional pollutants only)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Five of six samples exceed the water quality objective according to results in the San Diego County Municipal Copermittees Annual Progress Report, 2007. Samples were collected one to two times a year from 2001-2006, with the exception of the 2004-2005 monitoring year.
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 Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin has a 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 on Camp Pendleton under the Basilone Road Bridge.
Temporal Representation: Samples were collected one to two times a year from 2001-2006, with the exception of the 2004-2005 monitoring year.
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 148274, Phosphorus
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
LOE ID: 7500
 
Pollutant: Phosphorus
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 5
Number of Exceedances: 5
 
Data and Information Type: Fixed station physical/chemical monitoring (conventional pollutants only)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: All five samples exceed the water quality objective. according to results in the San Diego County Municipal Copermittees Annual Progress Report, 2007. Samples were collected on the following dates: January 14, April 15, twice on May 13, and September 9, 2003.
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.
Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin has a 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: The sampling site lies on the lower Santa Margarita River (Santa Margarita 10 (902SSMR10 lat/long: 33.23669/-117.39175)).
Temporal Representation: Samples were collected on the following dates: January 14, April 15, twice on May 13, and September 9, 2003.
Environmental Conditions: The first two sampling events occurred between storm events and high base flow respectively. The third and fourth occurred during declining and minimum base flow respectively.
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):
 
 
DECISION ID
148278
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
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)(2020)
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 this section, a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status.

Four lines of evidence are available in the administrative record to assess pollutant. Six of the 14 water samples exceed the water quality threshold. There are an insufficient number of sediment samples.

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

This conclusion is based on the staff findings that:
1. The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy.
2. The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy.
3. Six of 14 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 148278, Toxicity
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
LOE ID: 7501
 
Pollutant: Toxicity
LOE Subgroup: Toxicity
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 3
Number of Exceedances: 1
 
Data and Information Type: Ambient toxicity testing (chronic)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Selenastrum capricornutum-
Three samples were collected with one samples showing significant toxicity levels (SL) as determined by the Selenastrum capricornutum growth test.

Ceriodaphnia dubia-
Two samples were collected and one samples show significant toxicity levels (SL) as determined by the Ceriodaphnia dubia survival/reproductive test. A fourth sample was collected and tested however the sample temperature was received outside acceptable limits upon laboratory receipt and the results were not used in this assessment.
Hyalella azteca-
Two samples were collected and one sample shows significant toxicity levels (SL) as determined by the Hyalella azteca growth/survival test according to results in the Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program Report, 2007. Samples were collected on the following dates: January 14, April 15, May 13, and September 9, 2003.
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
  Monitoring data for Region 9
 
SWAMP Data: 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 at the monitoring station Santa Margarita 10 located on the main stem of the Lower Santa Margarita River.
Temporal Representation: Samples were collected on the following dates: January 14, April 15, May 13, and September 9, 2003.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Quality control for the chemical analysis portion of this study 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 148278, Toxicity
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
LOE ID: 76546
 
Pollutant: Toxicity
LOE Subgroup: Toxicity
Matrix: Sediment
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 1
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: TOXICITY TESTING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: One sample was collected to evaluate sediment toxicity. The sample did not exhibit 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, Significant compared to negative control based on statistical test, less than stated alpha level, AND less than the evaluation threshold (both criteria are met).
Guideline Reference: SWAMP_Memo_Toxicity_Data_Intrepretation
 
Spatial Representation: The sample was collected at station 902SSMR07.
Temporal Representation: The samples were 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):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 148278, Toxicity
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
LOE ID: 76544
 
Pollutant: Toxicity
LOE Subgroup: Toxicity
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 11
Number of Exceedances: 5
 
Data and Information Type: TOXICITY TESTING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Eleven samples were collected to test for toxicity. Five of the eleven samples exhibited statistically significant toxicity. The toxicity tests included survival of Hyalella azteca, growth of Selenastrum capriconutum 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 902SMR-MLS - Santa Margarita River.
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected from 2001 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 148278, Toxicity
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
LOE ID: 30287
 
Pollutant: Toxicity
LOE Subgroup: Toxicity
Matrix: Sediment
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 2
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: Ambient toxicity testing (chronic)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Hyalella azteca-
Two samples were collected and neither shows significant toxicity levels (SL) as determined by the Hyalella azteca growth/survival test according to results in the Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program Report, 2007. Samples were collected on the following dates: January 14, April 15, May 13, and September 9, 2003.
Data Reference: Monitoring data for Region 9
 
SWAMP Data: 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 at the monitoring station Santa Margarita 10 located on the main stem of the Lower Santa Margarita River.
Temporal Representation: Samples were collected on the following dates: January 14, April 15, May 13, and September 9, 2003.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Quality control for the chemical analysis portion of this study 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
148260
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
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)(2020)
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 148260, Antimony
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
LOE ID: 78322
 
Pollutant: Antimony
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Sediment
Matrix: Sediment
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Estuarine 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 Bight data for Santa Margarita River (Lower) to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 4 samples exceed the criterion for Antimony.
Data Reference: Data for Various Pollutants from Bight, 2008.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-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 marine and estuarine sediments the effects range median (predictive of sediment toxicity for sediment-dwelling organisms) for Antimony is 25 ug/g dry weight (Long and Morgan, 1990).
Guideline Reference: Development and evaluation of sediment quality guidelines for Florida coastal waters. Ecotoxicology 5: 253-278
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Santa Margarita River (Lower) was collected at 4 monitoring sites [ 902_6317, 902_6303, 902_6311, 902_6314]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected on a single day 8/29/2008.
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 Southern California Bight was followed.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight.
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 148260, Antimony
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
LOE ID: 77838
 
Pollutant: Antimony
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Municipal & Domestic Supply
 
Number of Samples: 6
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 data for Santa Margarita River (Lower) to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 6 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 California Maximum Contaminant Level for antimony is .006 mg/L (Title 22 of the California Code of Regulations).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Maximum Contaminant Levels for organic and inorganic chemicals. CCR Title 22
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Santa Margarita River (Lower) was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Santa Margarita River - 902SMR-MLS]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 11/29/2001-2/28/2006.
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 used.
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
148261
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
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)(2020)
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 148261, Arsenic
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
LOE ID: 77841
 
Pollutant: Arsenic
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Municipal & Domestic Supply
 
Number of Samples: 6
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 data for Santa Margarita River (Lower) to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 6 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 California Maximum Contaminant Level for arsenic is 0.01 mg/L (Title 22 of the California Code of Regulations).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Maximum Contaminant Levels for organic and inorganic chemicals. CCR Title 22
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Santa Margarita River (Lower) was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Santa Margarita River - 902SMR-MLS]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 11/29/2001-2/28/2006.
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 used.
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 148261, Arsenic
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
LOE ID: 76470
 
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 Santa Margarita River (Lower) 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 Santa Margarita River (Lower) was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Santa Margarita at Basilone Rd - 902SSMR07]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected on a single day 5/21/2008.
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 148261, Arsenic
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
LOE ID: 78323
 
Pollutant: Arsenic
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Sediment
Matrix: Sediment
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Estuarine 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 Bight data for Santa Margarita River (Lower) to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 4 samples exceed the criterion for Arsenic.
Data Reference: Data for Various Pollutants from Bight, 2008.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-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 marine and estuarine sediments the effects range median (predictive of sediment toxicity for sediment-dwelling organisms) for Arsenic is 70 ug/g dry weight (Long et al., 1995).
Guideline Reference: Incidence of adverse biological effects within ranges of chemical concentrations in marine and estuary sediments. Environmental Management. 19, (1): 81-97
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Santa Margarita River (Lower) was collected at 4 monitoring sites [ 902_6317, 902_6303, 902_6311, 902_6314]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected on a single day 8/29/2008.
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 Southern California Bight was followed.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight.
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 148261, Arsenic
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
LOE ID: 77840
 
Pollutant: Arsenic
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
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: State Water Board staff assessed County of San Diego data for Santa Margarita River (Lower) to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 6 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 Santa Margarita River (Lower) was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Santa Margarita River - 902SMR-MLS]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 11/29/2001-2/28/2006.
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 used.
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
111264
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
Pollutant: Bifenthrin
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 111264, Bifenthrin
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
LOE ID: 76472
 
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 Santa Margarita River (Lower) 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 Santa Margarita River (Lower) was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Santa Margarita at Basilone Rd - 902SSMR07]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected on a single day 5/21/2008.
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
148262
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
Pollutant: Cadmium
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)(2020)
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 148262, Cadmium
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
LOE ID: 78325
 
Pollutant: Cadmium
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Sediment
Matrix: Sediment
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Estuarine 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 Bight data for Santa Margarita River (Lower) to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 4 samples exceed the criterion for Cadmium.
Data Reference: Data for Various Pollutants from Bight, 2008.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-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 marine and estuarine sediments the probable effect level (predictive of sediment toxicity for sediment-dwelling organisms) for Cadmium is 4.21 ng/g dry weight (MacDonald et al., 1996).
Guideline Reference: Development and evaluation of sediment quality guidelines for Florida coastal waters. Ecotoxicology 5: 253-278
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Santa Margarita River (Lower) was collected at 4 monitoring sites [ 902_6317, 902_6303, 902_6311, 902_6314]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected on a single day 8/29/2008.
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 Southern California Bight was followed.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight.
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 148262, Cadmium
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
LOE ID: 76474
 
Pollutant: Cadmium
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 6
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 Santa Margarita River (Lower) to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 6 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: California Toxics Rule (CTR) lists criterion continuous concentrations for dissolved Cadmium to protect aquatic life in freshwater. The dissolved Cadmium 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 Santa Margarita River (Lower) was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Santa Margarita River - 902SMR-MLS]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected 11/29/2001-02/28/2006.
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 148262, Cadmium
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
LOE ID: 76473
 
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 Santa Margarita River (Lower) 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 Santa Margarita River (Lower) was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Santa Margarita at Basilone Rd - 902SSMR07]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected on a single day 5/21/2008.
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 148262, Cadmium
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
LOE ID: 77844
 
Pollutant: Cadmium
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Preservation of Rare & Endangered Species
 
Number of Samples: 6
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 data for Santa Margarita River (Lower) to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 6 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: California Toxics Rule (CTR) lists criterion continuous concentrations for dissolved Cadmium to protect aquatic life in freshwater. The dissolved Cadmium 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 Santa Margarita River (Lower) was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Santa Margarita River - 902SMR-MLS]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 11/29/2001-2/28/2006.
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 used.
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 148262, Cadmium
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
LOE ID: 77845
 
Pollutant: Cadmium
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Municipal & Domestic Supply
 
Number of Samples: 6
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 data for Santa Margarita River (Lower) to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 6 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 California Maximum Contaminant Level for cadmium is 0.005 mg/L (Title 22 of the California Code of Regulations).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Maximum Contaminant Levels for organic and inorganic chemicals. CCR Title 22
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Santa Margarita River (Lower) was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Santa Margarita River - 902SMR-MLS]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 11/29/2001-2/28/2006.
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 used.
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
148288
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
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)(2020)
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 148288, Chromium
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
LOE ID: 76477
 
Pollutant: Chromium
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 1
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: State Water Board staff assessed County of San Diego NDPES data for Santa Margarita River (Lower) to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 1 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 Santa Margarita River (Lower) was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Santa Margarita River - 902SMR-MLS]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected on a single day 11/29/2001.
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 148288, Chromium
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
LOE ID: 76476
 
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 Santa Margarita River (Lower) 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 Santa Margarita River (Lower) was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Santa Margarita at Basilone Rd - 902SSMR07]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected on a single day 5/21/2008.
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 148288, Chromium
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
LOE ID: 78328
 
Pollutant: Chromium
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Sediment
Matrix: Sediment
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Estuarine 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 Bight data for Santa Margarita River (Lower) to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 4 samples exceed the criterion for Chromium.
Data Reference: Data for Various Pollutants from Bight, 2008.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-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 marine and estuarine sediments the effects range median (predictive of sediment toxicity for sediment-dwelling organisms) for Chromium is 370 ug/g dry weight (Long et al., 1995).
Guideline Reference: Incidence of adverse biological effects within ranges of chemical concentrations in marine and estuary sediments. Environmental Management. 19, (1): 81-97
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Santa Margarita River (Lower) was collected at 4 monitoring sites [ 902_6317, 902_6303, 902_6311, 902_6314]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected on a single day 8/29/2008.
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 Southern California Bight was followed.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight.
 
 
DECISION ID
148265
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
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)(2020)
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 148265, Copper
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
LOE ID: 78333
 
Pollutant: Copper
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Sediment
Matrix: Sediment
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Estuarine 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 Bight data for Santa Margarita River (Lower) to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 4 samples exceed the criterion for Copper.
Data Reference: Data for Various Pollutants from Bight, 2008.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-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 marine and estuarine sediments the effects range median (predictive of sediment toxicity for sediment-dwelling organisms) for Copper is 270 ug/g dry weight (Long et al., 1995).
Guideline Reference: Incidence of adverse biological effects within ranges of chemical concentrations in marine and estuary sediments. Environmental Management. 19, (1): 81-97
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Santa Margarita River (Lower) was collected at 4 monitoring sites [ 902_6317, 902_6303, 902_6311, 902_6314]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected on a single day 8/29/2008.
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 Southern California Bight was followed.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight.
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 148265, Copper
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
LOE ID: 76478
 
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 Santa Margarita River (Lower) 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 Santa Margarita River (Lower) was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Santa Margarita at Basilone Rd - 902SSMR07]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected on a single day 5/21/2008.
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 148265, Copper
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
LOE ID: 77853
 
Pollutant: Copper
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Municipal & Domestic Supply
 
Number of Samples: 6
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 data for Santa Margarita River (Lower) to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 6 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: The California Secondary MCL for copper is 1.0 mg/L (Title 22 California Code of Regulations).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Secondary Maximum Contaminant Levels and Compliance. CCR Title 22 section 64449.
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Santa Margarita River (Lower) was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Santa Margarita River - 902SMR-MLS]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 11/29/2001-2/28/2006.
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 used.
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 148265, Copper
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
LOE ID: 77852
 
Pollutant: Copper
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 6
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 data for Santa Margarita River (Lower) to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 1 of 6 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 Santa Margarita River (Lower) was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Santa Margarita River - 902SMR-MLS]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 11/29/2001-2/28/2006.
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 used.
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
111271
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
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 111271, Cyfluthrin
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
LOE ID: 77855
 
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 Santa Margarita River (Lower) 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 Santa Margarita River (Lower) was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Santa Margarita at Basilone Rd - 902SSMR07]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected on a single day 5/21/2008.
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
148287
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
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)(2020)
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 148287, Cyhalothrin, Lambda
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
LOE ID: 77856
 
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 Santa Margarita River (Lower) 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 Santa Margarita River (Lower) was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Santa Margarita at Basilone Rd - 902SSMR07]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected on a single day 5/21/2008.
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
144929
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
Pollutant: Cypermethrin
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)(2020)
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 144929, Cypermethrin
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
LOE ID: 77857
 
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 Santa Margarita River (Lower) 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 Santa Margarita River (Lower) was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Santa Margarita at Basilone Rd - 902SSMR07]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected on a single day 5/21/2008.
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
144930
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
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)(2020)
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: 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 144930, Deltamethrin
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
LOE ID: 77858
 
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 Santa Margarita River (Lower) 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 Santa Margarita River (Lower) was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Santa Margarita at Basilone Rd - 902SSMR07]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected on a single day 5/21/2008.
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
148266
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
Pollutant: Diazinon
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)(2020)
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 148266, Diazinon
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
LOE ID: 77834
 
Pollutant: Diazinon
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Municipal & Domestic Supply
 
Number of Samples: 3
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 data for Santa Margarita River (Lower) to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 3 samples exceed the criterion for Diazinon. Three of the six samples could not be used in this assessment because they lacked sufficiently sensitive methods.
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 California Department of Public Health (CDPH) Notification Level for Diazinon is 1.2 ug/L.
Guideline Reference: 2011 Edition of the Drinking Water Standards and Health Advisories
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Santa Margarita River (Lower) was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Santa Margarita River - 902SMR-MLS]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 11/29/2001-2/28/2006.
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 used.
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 148266, Diazinon
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
LOE ID: 77832
 
Pollutant: Diazinon
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
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: State Water Board staff assessed County of San Diego data for Santa Margarita River (Lower) to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 3 samples exceed the criterion for Diazinon. Three of the six samples could not be used in this assessment because they lacked sufficiently sensitive methods.
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 Santa Margarita River (Lower) was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Santa Margarita River - 902SMR-MLS]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 11/29/2001-2/28/2006.
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 used.
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 148266, Diazinon
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
LOE ID: 77831
 
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 Santa Margarita River (Lower) 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 Santa Margarita River (Lower) was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Santa Margarita at Basilone Rd - 902SSMR07]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected on a single day 5/21/2008.
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
148291
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
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)(2020)
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 148291, Esfenvalerate/Fenvalerate
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
LOE ID: 77835
 
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 Santa Margarita River (Lower) 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 Santa Margarita River (Lower) was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Santa Margarita at Basilone Rd - 902SSMR07]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected on a single day 5/21/2008.
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
148289
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
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)(2020)
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 148289, Fenpropathrin
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
LOE ID: 77836
 
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 Santa Margarita River (Lower) 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 Santa Margarita River (Lower) was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Santa Margarita at Basilone Rd - 902SSMR07]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected on a single day 5/21/2008.
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
148269
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
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)(2020)
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 148269, Lead
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
LOE ID: 78314
 
Pollutant: Lead
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Sediment
Matrix: Sediment
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Estuarine 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 Bight data for Santa Margarita River (Lower) to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 4 samples exceed the criterion for Lead.
Data Reference: Data for Various Pollutants from Bight, 2008.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-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 marine and estuarine sediments the probable effect level (predictive of sediment toxicity for sediment-dwelling organisms) for Lead is 112.18 ug/g dry weight (MacDonald et al., 1996).
Guideline Reference: Development and evaluation of sediment quality guidelines for Florida coastal waters. Ecotoxicology 5: 253-278
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Santa Margarita River (Lower) was collected at 4 monitoring sites [ 902_6317, 902_6303, 902_6311, 902_6314]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected on a single day 8/29/2008.
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 Southern California Bight was followed.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight.
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 148269, Lead
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
LOE ID: 76466
 
Pollutant: Lead
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 1
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: State Water Board staff assessed County of San Diego NDPES data for Santa Margarita River (Lower) to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 1 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 Santa Margarita River (Lower) was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Santa Margarita River - 902SMR-MLS]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected on a single day 11/29/2001.
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
148363
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
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)(2020)
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 148363, Mercury
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
LOE ID: 78318
 
Pollutant: Mercury
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Sediment
Matrix: Sediment
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Estuarine 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 Bight data for Santa Margarita River (Lower) to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 4 samples exceed the criterion for Mercury.
Data Reference: Data for Various Pollutants from Bight, 2008.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-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 marine and estuarine sediments the sediment quality guideline (predictive of sediment toxicity for sediment-dwelling organisms) for Mercury is 2.1 ug/g (PTI Environmental Services, 1991).
Guideline Reference: Pollutants of concern in Puget Sound. EPA 910/9-91-003. Seattle, WA: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Santa Margarita River (Lower) was collected at 4 monitoring sites [ 902_6317, 902_6303, 902_6311, 902_6314]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected on a single day 8/29/2008.
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 Southern California Bight was followed.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight.
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 148363, Mercury
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
LOE ID: 76467
 
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 Santa Margarita River (Lower) 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 Santa Margarita River (Lower) was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Santa Margarita at Basilone Rd - 902SSMR07]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected on a single day 5/21/2008.
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 148363, Mercury
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
LOE ID: 3012
 
Pollutant: Mercury
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Tissue
Matrix: Tissue
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Agricultural Supply
 
Number of Samples: 4
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: None of 4 samples for mercury in fish tissue taken exceeded the screening value. (TSMP, 2002).
Data Reference: Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: OEHHA screening value for mercury 0.3 mg/kg (ppm).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Lower Santa Margarita River.
Temporal Representation: Samples were taken between March 1979 and August 1999.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: CFCP 1998 Year 1 QA Summary Pesticides and PCBs. California Department of Fish and Game.

CDFG Fish and Wildlife Water Pollution Control Laboratory Data Quality
Assurance Report. 1999 Coastal Fish Contamination Program (CFCP Year 2). California Department of Fish and Game.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
 
DECISION ID
148270
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
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)(2020)
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 148270, Nickel
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
LOE ID: 77863
 
Pollutant: Nickel
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Municipal & Domestic Supply
 
Number of Samples: 6
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 data for Santa Margarita River (Lower) to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 6 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 California Maximum Contaminant Level for nickel is 0.1 mg/L (Title 22 of the California Code of Regulations).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Maximum Contaminant Levels for organic and inorganic chemicals. CCR Title 22
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Santa Margarita River (Lower) was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Santa Margarita River - 902SMR-MLS]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 11/29/2001-2/28/2006.
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 used.
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 148270, Nickel
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
LOE ID: 77865
 
Pollutant: Nickel
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 6
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 data for Santa Margarita River (Lower) to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 6 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 Santa Margarita River (Lower) was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Santa Margarita River - 902SMR-MLS]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 11/29/2001-2/28/2006.
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 used.
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 148270, Nickel
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
LOE ID: 76622
 
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 Santa Margarita River (Lower) 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 Santa Margarita River (Lower) was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Santa Margarita at Basilone Rd - 902SSMR07]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected on a single day 5/21/2008.
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 148270, Nickel
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
LOE ID: 77862
 
Pollutant: Nickel
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
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: State Water Board staff assessed County of San Diego data for Santa Margarita River (Lower) to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 6 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 Santa Margarita River (Lower) was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Santa Margarita River - 902SMR-MLS]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 11/29/2001-2/28/2006.
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 used.
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
148362
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
Pollutant: Nitrogen, Nitrite
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)(2020)
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 148362, Nitrogen, Nitrite
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
LOE ID: 77868
 
Pollutant: Nitrogen, Nitrite
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Municipal & Domestic Supply
 
Number of Samples: 6
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 data for Santa Margarita River (Lower) to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 6 samples exceed the criterion for Nitrite as N.
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 California Maximum Contaminant Level for nitrite (as N) is 1.0 mg/L (Title 22 of the California Code of Regulations).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Maximum Contaminant Levels for organic and inorganic chemicals. CCR Title 22
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Santa Margarita River (Lower) was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Santa Margarita River - 902SMR-MLS]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 11/29/2001-2/28/2006.
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 used.
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
144931
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
Pollutant: Permethrin
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)(2020)
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: 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 144931, Permethrin
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
LOE ID: 76524
 
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 Santa Margarita River (Lower) 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 Santa Margarita River (Lower) was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Santa Margarita at Basilone Rd - 902SSMR07]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected on a single day 5/21/2008.
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
148275
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
Pollutant: Selenium
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)(2020)
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 148275, Selenium
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
LOE ID: 77875
 
Pollutant: Selenium
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
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: State Water Board staff assessed County of San Diego data for Santa Margarita River (Lower) to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 6 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 Santa Margarita River (Lower) was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Santa Margarita River - 902SMR-MLS]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 11/29/2001-2/28/2006.
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 used.
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 148275, Selenium
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
LOE ID: 77878
 
Pollutant: Selenium
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 6
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 data for Santa Margarita River (Lower) to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 6 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 Santa Margarita River (Lower) was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Santa Margarita River - 902SMR-MLS]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 11/29/2001-2/28/2006.
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 used.
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 148275, Selenium
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
LOE ID: 77876
 
Pollutant: Selenium
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Municipal & Domestic Supply
 
Number of Samples: 6
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 data for Santa Margarita River (Lower) to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 6 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 Maximum Contaminant Level for selenium in the Basin Plan is 0.05 mg/L (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: Data for this line of evidence for Santa Margarita River (Lower) was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Santa Margarita River - 902SMR-MLS]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 11/29/2001-2/28/2006.
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 used.
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
148276
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
Pollutant: Silver
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)(2020)
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 148276, Silver
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
LOE ID: 78347
 
Pollutant: Silver
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Sediment
Matrix: Sediment
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Estuarine 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 Bight data for Santa Margarita River (Lower) to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 4 samples exceed the criterion for Silver.
Data Reference: Data for Various Pollutants from Bight, 2008.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-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 marine and estuarine sediments the probable effect level (predictive of sediment toxicity for sediment-dwelling organisms) for Silver is 1.77 ug/g dry weight (MacDonald et al., 1996).
Guideline Reference: Development and evaluation of sediment quality guidelines for Florida coastal waters. Ecotoxicology 5: 253-278
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Santa Margarita River (Lower) was collected at 4 monitoring sites [ 902_6317, 902_6303, 902_6311, 902_6314]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected on a single day 8/29/2008.
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 Southern California Bight was followed.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight.
 
 
DECISION ID
148279
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
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)(2020)
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 148279, Zinc
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
LOE ID: 77883
 
Pollutant: Zinc
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: State Water Board staff assessed County of San Diego data for Santa Margarita River (Lower) to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 6 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 Santa Margarita River (Lower) was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Santa Margarita River - 902SMR-MLS]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 11/29/2001-2/28/2006.
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 used.
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 148279, Zinc
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
LOE ID: 76556
 
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 Santa Margarita River (Lower) 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 Santa Margarita River (Lower) was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Santa Margarita at Basilone Rd - 902SSMR07]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected on a single day 5/21/2008.
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 148279, Zinc
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
LOE ID: 78348
 
Pollutant: Zinc
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Sediment
Matrix: Sediment
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Estuarine 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 Bight data for Santa Margarita River (Lower) to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 4 samples exceed the criterion for Zinc.
Data Reference: Data for Various Pollutants from Bight, 2008.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-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 marine and estuarine sediments the effects range median (predictive of sediment toxicity for sediment-dwelling organisms) for Zinc is 410 ug/g dry weight (Long et al., 1995).
Guideline Reference: Incidence of adverse biological effects within ranges of chemical concentrations in marine and estuary sediments. Environmental Management. 19, (1): 81-97
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Santa Margarita River (Lower) was collected at 4 monitoring sites [ 902_6317, 902_6303, 902_6311, 902_6314]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected on a single day 8/29/2008.
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 Southern California Bight was followed.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight.
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 148279, Zinc
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
LOE ID: 77882
 
Pollutant: Zinc
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Municipal & Domestic Supply
 
Number of Samples: 1
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 data for Santa Margarita River (Lower) to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 6 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: 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, San Diego Basin).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
 
Evaluation Guideline: The California Secondary MCL for zinc is 5.0 mg/L (Title 22 California Code of Regulations).
Guideline Reference: Secondary Maximum Contaminant Levels and Compliance. CCR Title 22 section 64449.
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Santa Margarita River (Lower) was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Santa Margarita River - 902SMR-MLS]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 11/29/2001-2/28/2006.
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 used.
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 148279, Zinc
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
LOE ID: 76563
 
Pollutant: Zinc
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 1
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: State Water Board staff assessed County of San Diego NDPES data for Santa Margarita River (Lower) to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 1 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 Santa Margarita River (Lower) was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Santa Margarita River - 902SMR-MLS]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected on a single day 11/29/2001.
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
81478
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
Pollutant: 2-Methylnaphthalene
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 the four samples exceed the water quality objective.

Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is insufficient 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. Zero of the four samples exceed the water quality objective 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 81478, 2-Methylnaphthalene
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
LOE ID: 78321
 
Pollutant: 2-Methylnaphthalene
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Sediment
Matrix: Sediment
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Estuarine 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 Bight data for Santa Margarita River (Lower) to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 4 samples exceed the criterion for 2-Methylnaphthalene.
Data Reference: Data for Various Pollutants from Bight, 2008.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-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 marine and estuarine sediments the probable effect level (predictive of sediment toxicity for sediment-dwelling organisms) for 2-Methylnaphthalene is 201.28 ng/g dry weight (MacDonald et al., 1996).
Guideline Reference: Development and evaluation of sediment quality guidelines for Florida coastal waters. Ecotoxicology 5: 253-278
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Santa Margarita River (Lower) was collected at 4 monitoring sites [ 902_6317, 902_6303, 902_6311, 902_6314]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected on a single day 8/29/2008.
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 Southern California Bight was followed.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight.
 
 
DECISION ID
81575
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
Pollutant: Benzo(a)anthracene
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 the four samples exceed the water quality objective.

Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is insufficient 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. Zero of the four samples exceed the water quality objective 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 81575, Benzo(a)anthracene
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
LOE ID: 78324
 
Pollutant: Benzo(a)anthracene
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Sediment
Matrix: Sediment
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Estuarine 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 Bight data for Santa Margarita River (Lower) to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 4 samples exceed the criterion for Benzo(a)anthracene.
Data Reference: Data for Various Pollutants from Bight, 2008.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-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 marine and estuarine sediments the probable effect level (predictive of sediment toxicity for sediment-dwelling organisms) for Benzo(a)anthracene is 692.53 ng/g dry weight (MacDonald et al., 1996).
Guideline Reference: Development and evaluation of sediment quality guidelines for Florida coastal waters. Ecotoxicology 5: 253-278
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Santa Margarita River (Lower) was collected at 4 monitoring sites [ 902_6317, 902_6303, 902_6311, 902_6314]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected on a single day 8/29/2008.
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 Southern California Bight was followed.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight.
 
 
DECISION ID
81315
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
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 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.

Two lines of evidence are available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. Zero of the five 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.

This conclusion is based on the staff findings that:
1. The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy.
2. The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy.
3. Zero of the five samples exceed the water quality objective 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 81315, Chlordane
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
LOE ID: 72833
 
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 902SSMR07 (Santa Margarita at Basilone Rd).
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected on 5/21/2008.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: The SWAMP QAPP (2008) was followed.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program Quality Assurance Program Plan
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 81315, Chlordane
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
LOE ID: 78326
 
Pollutant: Chlordane
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Sediment
Matrix: Sediment
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Estuarine 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 Bight data for Santa Margarita River (Lower) to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 4 samples exceed the criterion for Chlordane, Total.
Data Reference: Data for Various Pollutants from Bight, 2008.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-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 marine and estuarine sediments the effects range median (predictive of sediment toxicity for sediment-dwelling organisms) for Total Chlordane is 6 ng/g dry weight (Long and Morgan, 1990).
Guideline Reference: The potential for biological effects of sediment-sorbed contaminants tested in the National Status of Trends Program. NOAA Technical Memorandum NOS OMA 52. Seattle, WA: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Santa Margarita River (Lower) was collected at 4 monitoring sites [ 902_6317, 902_6303, 902_6311, 902_6314]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected on a single day 8/29/2008.
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 Southern California Bight was followed.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight.
 
 
DECISION ID
100515
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
Pollutant: Chrysene (C1-C4)
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(s) of evidence is necessary to assess listing status.

One lines of evidence is available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. zero of the four 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.

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 four samples exceeded the water quality objective 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 100515, Chrysene (C1-C4)
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
LOE ID: 78332
 
Pollutant: Chrysene (C1-C4)
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Sediment
Matrix: Sediment
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Estuarine 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 Bight data for Santa Margarita River (Lower) to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 4 samples exceed the criterion for Chrysene.
Data Reference: Data for Various Pollutants from Bight, 2008.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-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 marine and estuarine sediments the probable effect level (predictive of sediment toxicity for sediment-dwelling organisms) for Chrysene is 845.98 ng/g dry weight (MacDonald et al., 1996).
Guideline Reference: Development and evaluation of sediment quality guidelines for Florida coastal waters. Ecotoxicology 5: 253-278
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Santa Margarita River (Lower) was collected at 4 monitoring sites [ 902_6317, 902_6303, 902_6311, 902_6314]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected on a single day 8/29/2008.
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 Southern California Bight was followed.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight.
 
 
DECISION ID
100525
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
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 exceed the objective.

Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is insufficient 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. Zero of one sample exceed the objective 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 100525, DDD (Dichlorodiphenyldichloroethane)
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
LOE ID: 76480
 
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 Santa Margarita River (Lower) 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 Santa Margarita River (Lower) was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Santa Margarita at Basilone Rd - 902SSMR07]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected on a single day 5/21/2008.
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
81788
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
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 exceed the objective.

Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is insufficient 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. Zero of one sample exceed the objective 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 81788, DDE (Dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene)
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
LOE ID: 76481
 
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 Santa Margarita River (Lower) 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 Santa Margarita River (Lower) was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Santa Margarita at Basilone Rd - 902SSMR07]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected on a single day 5/21/2008.
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
81842
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
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 exceed the objective.

Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is insufficient 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. Zero of one sample exceed the objective 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 81842, DDT (Dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane)
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
LOE ID: 76482
 
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 Santa Margarita River (Lower) 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 Santa Margarita River (Lower) was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Santa Margarita at Basilone Rd - 902SSMR07]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected on a single day 5/21/2008.
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
81844
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
Pollutant: Dibenz[a,h]anthracene
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 four samples exceed the objective.

Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is insufficient 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. Zero of four samples exceed the objective 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 81844, Dibenz[a,h]anthracene
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
LOE ID: 78307
 
Pollutant: Dibenz[a,h]anthracene
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Sediment
Matrix: Sediment
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Estuarine 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 Bight data for Santa Margarita River (Lower) to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 4 samples exceed the criterion for Dibenzo(a, h)anthracene.
Data Reference: Data for Various Pollutants from Bight, 2008.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-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 marine and estuarine sediments the effects range median (predictive of sediment toxicity for sediment-dwelling organisms) for Dibenzo(a, h)anthracene is 260 ng/g dry weight (Long et al., 1995).
Guideline Reference: Incidence of adverse biological effects within ranges of chemical concentrations in marine and estuary sediments. Environmental Management. 19, (1): 81-97
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Santa Margarita River (Lower) was collected at 4 monitoring sites [ 902_6317, 902_6303, 902_6311, 902_6314]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected on a single day 8/29/2008.
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 Southern California Bight was followed.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight.
 
 
DECISION ID
81950
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
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 exceed the objective.

Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is insufficient 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. Zero of one sample exceed the objective 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 81950, Dieldrin
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
LOE ID: 76461
 
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 Santa Margarita River (Lower) 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 Santa Margarita River (Lower) was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Santa Margarita at Basilone Rd - 902SSMR07]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected on a single day 5/21/2008.
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
81951
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
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.

Two lines of evidence are available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. Zero of the two samples exceed the objective. Zero of two samples exhibited sediment toxicity.

Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is insufficient 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. Zero of the two samples exceed the objective, 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 81951, Endrin
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
LOE ID: 76462
 
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 Santa Margarita River (Lower) 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 Santa Margarita River (Lower) was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Santa Margarita at Basilone Rd - 902SSMR07]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected on a single day 5/21/2008.
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 81951, Endrin
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
LOE ID: 78310
 
Pollutant: Endrin
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Sediment
Matrix: Sediment
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Estuarine 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 Bight data for Santa Margarita River (Lower) to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: a total of 5 samples were collected and they were all non-detect, however 3 samples were not used in analysis because when the method detection limit was organic carbon normalized, the results were above the guideline and therefore could not be quanitified with the level of certainty required by the Listing Policy.
Data Reference: Data for Various Pollutants from Bight, 2008.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-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 marine and estuarine sediments the sediment quality guideline (predictive of sediment toxicity for sediment-dwelling organisms) for Endrin is 0.76 ug/g oc (Fairey et al., 2001).
Guideline Reference: Technical basis for deriving sediment criteria for nonionic organic contaminants for the protection of benthic organisms by using equilibrium partitioning. EPA822-R-93-011. Washington, D.C.: Office of Water, USEPA
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Santa Margarita River (Lower) was collected at 4 monitoring sites [ 902_6317, 902_6303, 902_6311, 902_6314]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected on a single day 8/29/2008.
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 Southern California Bight was followed.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight.
 
 
DECISION ID
81270
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
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.

Two lines of evidence are available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. Zero of the two samples exceed the objective. Zero of five samples exhibited sediment toxicity.

Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is insufficient 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. Zero of the five samples exceed the objective, 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 81270, Lindane/gamma Hexachlorocyclohexane (gamma-HCH)
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
LOE ID: 77837
 
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 Santa Margarita River (Lower) 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 Santa Margarita River (Lower) was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Santa Margarita at Basilone Rd - 902SSMR07]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected on a single day 5/21/2008.
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 81270, Lindane/gamma Hexachlorocyclohexane (gamma-HCH)
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
LOE ID: 78317
 
Pollutant: Lindane/gamma Hexachlorocyclohexane (gamma-HCH)
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Sediment
Matrix: Sediment
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Estuarine 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 Bight data for Santa Margarita River (Lower) to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 4 samples exceed the criterion for HCH, Gamma.
Data Reference: Data for Various Pollutants from Bight, 2008.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-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 marine and estuarine sediments the sediment quality guideline (predictive of sediment toxicity for sediment-dwelling organisms) for HCH, gamma(Lindane; BHC, gamma) is 0.37 ug/g oc (Fairey et al., 2001).
Guideline Reference: An evaluation of methods for calculating mean sediment quality guideline quotients as indicators of contamination and acute toxicity to amphipods by chemical mixtures. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry. 20(10): 2276-2286
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Santa Margarita River (Lower) was collected at 4 monitoring sites [ 902_6317, 902_6303, 902_6311, 902_6314]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected on a single day 8/29/2008.
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 Southern California Bight was followed.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight.
 
 
DECISION ID
81217
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
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 exceed the objective.

Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is insufficient 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. Zero of one sample exceed the objective 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 81217, Methyl Parathion
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
LOE ID: 77912
 
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 Santa Margarita River (Lower) 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 Santa Margarita River (Lower) was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Santa Margarita at Basilone Rd - 902SSMR07]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected on a single day 5/21/2008.
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
81532
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
Pollutant: Nitrate/Nitrite (Nitrite + Nitrate as N)
Final Listing Decision: Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: 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. Zero of the six 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.

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 six samples exceeded the water quality objective 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 iare 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 81532, Nitrate/Nitrite (Nitrite + Nitrate as N)
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
LOE ID: 77867
 
Pollutant: Nitrate/Nitrite (Nitrite + Nitrate as N)
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Municipal & Domestic Supply
 
Number of Samples: 6
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 data for Santa Margarita River (Lower) to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 6 samples exceed the criterion for Nitrate/Nitrite as N.
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 California Maximum Contaminant Level for nitrate + nitrite (as N) is 10.0 mg/L (Title 22 of the California Code of Regulations).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Maximum Contaminant Levels for organic and inorganic chemicals. CCR Title 22
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Santa Margarita River (Lower) was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Santa Margarita River - 902SMR-MLS]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 11/29/2001-2/28/2006.
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 used.
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
81431
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
Pollutant: PAHs (Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons)
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 the four samples exceed the evaluation guideline for total PAHs, Zero of four samples exceeded the evaluation guideline for low molecular weight PAhs, and zero of four samples exceeded the evaluation guideline for high molecular weight PAHs.

Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is insufficient 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. Zero of the 4 samples exceed the objective, 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 81431, PAHs (Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons)
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
LOE ID: 78343
 
Pollutant: PAHs (Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons)
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Sediment
Matrix: Sediment
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Estuarine 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 Bight data for Santa Margarita River (Lower) to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 4 samples exceed the criterion for PAHs (Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons).
Data Reference: Data for Various Pollutants from Bight, 2008.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-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 marine and estuarine sediments the sediment quality guideline (predictive of sediment toxicity for sediment-dwelling organisms) for Total PAHs is 1800 ug/g (Fairey et al., 2001).
Guideline Reference: An evaluation of methods for calculating mean sediment quality guideline quotients as indicators of contamination and acute toxicity to amphipods by chemical mixtures. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry. 20(10): 2276-2286
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Santa Margarita River (Lower) was collected at 4 monitoring sites [ 902_6317, 902_6303, 902_6311, 902_6314]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected on a single day 8/29/2008.
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 Southern California Bight was followed.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight.
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 81431, PAHs (Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons)
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
LOE ID: 78341
 
Pollutant: PAHs (Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons)
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Sediment
Matrix: Sediment
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Estuarine 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 Bight data for Santa Margarita River (Lower) to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 4 samples exceed the criterion for PAH, High molecular weight.
Data Reference: Data for Various Pollutants from Bight, 2008.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-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 marine and estuarine sediments the effects range median (predictive of sediment toxicity for sediment-dwelling organisms) for High molecular weight PAHs is 9600 ng/g dry weight (Long et al., 1995).
Guideline Reference: Incidence of adverse biological effects within ranges of chemical concentrations in marine and estuary sediments. Environmental Management. 19, (1): 81-97
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Santa Margarita River (Lower) was collected at 4 monitoring sites [ 902_6317, 902_6303, 902_6311, 902_6314]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected on a single day 8/29/2008.
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 Southern California Bight was followed.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight.
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 81431, PAHs (Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons)
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
LOE ID: 78342
 
Pollutant: PAHs (Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons)
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Sediment
Matrix: Sediment
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Estuarine 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 Bight data for Santa Margarita River (Lower) to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 4 samples exceed the criterion for PAH, Low molecular weight.
Data Reference: Data for Various Pollutants from Bight, 2008.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-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 marine and estuarine sediments the effects range median (predictive of sediment toxicity for sediment-dwelling organisms) for Low molecular weight PAHs is 1442 ng/g dry weight (Long et al., 1995).
Guideline Reference: Development and evaluation of sediment quality guidelines for Florida coastal waters. Ecotoxicology 5: 253-278
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Santa Margarita River (Lower) was collected at 4 monitoring sites [ 902_6317, 902_6303, 902_6311, 902_6314]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected on a single day 8/29/2008.
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 Southern California Bight was followed.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight.
 
 
DECISION ID
81322
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
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.

Two lines of evidence are available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. Zero of the two samples exceed the objective. Zero of five samples exhibited sediment toxicity.

Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is insufficient 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. Zero of the five samples exceed the objective, 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 81322, PCBs (Polychlorinated biphenyls)
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
LOE ID: 78344
 
Pollutant: PCBs (Polychlorinated biphenyls)
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Sediment
Matrix: Sediment
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Estuarine 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 Bight data for Santa Margarita River (Lower) to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 4 samples exceed the criterion for PCB, Total.
Data Reference: Data for Various Pollutants from Bight, 2008.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-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 marine and estuarine sediments the sediment quality guideline (predictive of sediment toxicity for sediment-dwelling organisms) for Total PCBs is 400 ng/g (MacDonald et al., 2000b).
Guideline Reference: Development and evaluation of consensus-based sediment effect concentrations for polychlorinated biphenyls. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry. 19(5): 1403-1413
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Santa Margarita River (Lower) was collected at 4 monitoring sites [ 902_6317, 902_6303, 902_6311, 902_6314]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected on a single day 8/29/2008.
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 Southern California Bight was followed.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight.
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 81322, PCBs (Polychlorinated biphenyls)
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
LOE ID: 72813
 
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 902SSMR07 (Santa Margarita at Basilone Rd).
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected on 5/21/2008.
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
81479
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
Pollutant: Phenanthrene
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 the four samples exceed the objective. Zero of four samples exhibited sediment toxicity.

Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is insufficient 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. Zero of the four samples exceed the objective, 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 81479, Phenanthrene
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
LOE ID: 78345
 
Pollutant: Phenanthrene
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Sediment
Matrix: Sediment
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Estuarine 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 Bight data for Santa Margarita River (Lower) to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 4 samples exceed the criterion for Phenanthrene.
Data Reference: Data for Various Pollutants from Bight, 2008.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-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 marine and estuarine sediments the probable effect level (predictive of sediment toxicity for sediment-dwelling organisms) for Phenanthrene is 543.53 ng/g dry weight (MacDonald et al., 1996).
Guideline Reference: Development and evaluation of sediment quality guidelines for Florida coastal waters. Ecotoxicology 5: 253-278
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Santa Margarita River (Lower) was collected at 4 monitoring sites [ 902_6317, 902_6303, 902_6311, 902_6314]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected on a single day 8/29/2008.
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 Southern California Bight was followed.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight.
 
 
DECISION ID
81480
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
Pollutant: Pyrene
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 the four samples exceed the objective. Zero of four samples exhibited sediment toxicity.

Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is insufficient 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. Zero of the four samples exceed the objective, 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 81480, Pyrene
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
LOE ID: 78346
 
Pollutant: Pyrene
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Sediment
Matrix: Sediment
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Estuarine 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 Bight data for Santa Margarita River (Lower) to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 4 samples exceed the criterion for Pyrene.
Data Reference: Data for Various Pollutants from Bight, 2008.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-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 marine and estuarine sediments the probable effect level (predictive of sediment toxicity for sediment-dwelling organisms) for Pyrene is 1397.4 ng/g dry weight (MacDonald et al., 1996).
Guideline Reference: Development and evaluation of sediment quality guidelines for Florida coastal waters. Ecotoxicology 5: 253-278
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for Santa Margarita River (Lower) was collected at 4 monitoring sites [ 902_6317, 902_6303, 902_6311, 902_6314]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected on a single day 8/29/2008.
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 Southern California Bight was followed.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Project Plan from Southern California Bight.
 
 
DECISION ID
77006
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
Pollutant: Sulfates
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:

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. Two of the five samples exceed the Basin Plan water quality objective for sulfates.

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. Two of the five samples exceed the Basin Plan water quality objective for sulfates 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 26 samples is needed to determine if a beneficial use is fully supported using table 3.2.
4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.
 
Regional Board Decision Recommendation: This is a decision previously approved by the State Water Resources Control Board and the USEPA. No new data were assessed by the Regional Board for the current cycle. The decision has not changed.
 
State Board Review of Regional Board Conclusion and Recommendation:
 
State Board Decision Recommendation: After review of this Regional Board decision, SWRCB staff recommend the decision be approved by the State Board.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 77006, Sulfates
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
LOE ID: 21195
 
Pollutant: Sulfates
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Not Recorded
 
Beneficial Use: Municipal & Domestic Supply
 
Number of Samples: 5
Number of Exceedances: 2
 
Data and Information Type: Fixed station physical/chemical monitoring (conventional pollutants only)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Five water samples were collected at Santa Margarita River 10 Station 902SSMR10 on January 2003, April 2003, May 2003, and September 2003, Two of the five showed excessive sulfate concentrations according to results in California's Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program Report, 2007.
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: The recommended secondary drinking water standard for sulfate is 250 mg/l.
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: Water samples were collected at Santa Margarita River 10 Station 902SSMR10; (Latitude 33.2370, Longitude -117.3923).
Temporal Representation: Samples were collected on January 2003, April 2003, May 2003, and September 2003.
Environmental Conditions: Samples were collected during wet weather.
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
81752
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
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 3.1 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. Zero of the one sample exceed the 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.

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 objective 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 81752, Total DDT (sum of 4,4'- and 2,4'- isomers of DDT, DDE, and DDD)
Region 9     
Santa Margarita River (Lower)
 
LOE ID: 76543
 
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 Santa Margarita River (Lower) 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 Santa Margarita River (Lower) was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Santa Margarita at Basilone Rd - 902SSMR07]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected on a single day 5/21/2008.
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)