Draft California 2026 Integrated Report (303(d) List/305(b) Report)

Supporting Information

Regional Board 6 - Lahontan Region

Water Body Name: Saxon Creek
Water Body ID: CAR6341002020170905049315
Water Body Type: River & Stream
 
DECISION ID
162572
Region 6     
Saxon Creek
 
Pollutant: Alkalinity as CaCO3
Final Listing Decision: Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)(2018)
Revision Status Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: This pollutant is being considered for placement on the CWA section 303(d) List under section 3.2 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.2 a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status.

Eight lines of evidence are available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. One of the 12 samples exceed the guideline.

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

This conclusion is based on the staff findings that:
1. The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy.
2. The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy.
3. 1 of 12 samples exceeded the guideline and this does not exceed the allowable frequency listed in Table 3.2 of the Listing Policy.
4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.
 
Regional Board Decision Recommendation: After review of the available data and information, RWQCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should not be placed on the section 303(d) list because applicable water quality standards are not being exceeded.
 
State Board Review of Regional Board Conclusion and Recommendation:
 
State Board Decision Recommendation:
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 162572, Alkalinity as CaCO3
Region 6     
Saxon Creek
 
LOE ID: 98766
 
Pollutant: Alkalinity as CaCO3
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 1
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed SWAMP Perennial Stream Surveys data for Saxon Creek to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 1 samples exceeded the water quality standard for Alkalinity as CaCO3.
Data Reference: Water Quality Assessment Data for the 2018 solicitation cycle submitted through CEDEN for the SWAMP Perennial Stream Surveys.
 
SWAMP Data: SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The National Recommended Water Quality Criteria for Alkalinity as CaCO3 for the protection of freshwater aquatic life is not less than 20000 ug/L. (National Recommended Water Quality Criteria 2016)
Objective/Criterion Reference: National Recommended Water Quality Criteria. United States Environmental Protection Agency. Office of Water. Current as of 08/03/2016.
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site(s) (634PS0126)
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2013-08-28 and 2013-08-28
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Quality Assurance Program Plan and Standard Operating Procedures for SWAMP program
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Program Plans, Quality Assurance Project Plans, and Standard Operating Procedures for the SWAMP program
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 162572, Alkalinity as CaCO3
Region 6     
Saxon Creek
 
LOE ID: 98474
 
Pollutant: Alkalinity as CaCO3
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 1
Number of Exceedances: 1
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed TRPA Tahoe Ambient Monitoring data for Saxon Creek to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 1 of 1 samples exceeded the water quality standard for Alkalinity as CaCO3.
Data Reference: Water Quality Assessment Data for the 2018 solicitation cycle submitted through CEDEN for the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency (TRPA) Tahoe Ambient Monitoring program.
 
SWAMP Data: SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The National Recommended Water Quality Criteria for Alkalinity as CaCO3 for the protection of freshwater aquatic life is not less than 20000 ug/L. (National Recommended Water Quality Criteria 2016)
Objective/Criterion Reference: National Recommended Water Quality Criteria. United States Environmental Protection Agency. Office of Water. Current as of 08/03/2016.
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site(s) (634S14253)
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2014-09-05 and 2014-09-05
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Quality Assurance Program Plan and Standard Operating Procedures for SWAMP program
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Program Plans, Quality Assurance Project Plans, and Standard Operating Procedures for the SWAMP program
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 162572, Alkalinity as CaCO3
Region 6     
Saxon Creek
 
LOE ID: 337879
 
Pollutant: Alkalinity as CaCO3
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: Water Board staff assessed TRPA Tahoe Ambient Monitoring data for Saxon Creek to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 1 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for Alkalinity as CaCO3.
Data Reference: Benthic, Field, Habitat from the Tahoe Regional Planning Authority for the 2026 Integrated Report in Region 6
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: All waters shall be maintained free of toxic substances in concentrations that are toxic to, or that produce detrimental physiological responses in human, plant, animal, or aquatic life (Water Quality Control Plan, Lahontan Region).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
 
Evaluation Guideline: The USEPA recommended alkalinity criterion continuous concentration (CCC) for the protection of aquatic life in freshwater is a minimum value of 20,000 ug/L (4-day average).
Guideline Reference: National Recommended Water Quality Criteria. United States Environmental Protection Agency. Office of Water. Current as of 08/03/2016.
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site: 634REFSAX (Saxon Creek Reference).
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2017-10-10 and 2017-10-10
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Generic SWAMP QAPrP
QAPP Information Reference(s): Generic SWAMP QAPrP
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 162572, Alkalinity as CaCO3
Region 6     
Saxon Creek
 
LOE ID: 338032
 
Pollutant: Alkalinity as CaCO3
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: Water Board staff assessed TRPA Tahoe Ambient Monitoring data for Saxon Creek to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 1 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for Alkalinity as CaCO3.
Data Reference: Benthic, Field, Habitat from the Tahoe Regional Planning Authority for the 2026 Integrated Report in Region 6
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: All waters shall be maintained free of toxic substances in concentrations that are toxic to, or that produce detrimental physiological responses in human, plant, animal, or aquatic life (Water Quality Control Plan, Lahontan Region).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
 
Evaluation Guideline: The USEPA recommended alkalinity criterion continuous concentration (CCC) for the protection of aquatic life in freshwater is a minimum value of 20,000 ug/L (4-day average).
Guideline Reference: National Recommended Water Quality Criteria. United States Environmental Protection Agency. Office of Water. Current as of 08/03/2016.
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site: 634TPB109 (Saxon Creek 634010109 Trend Panel B).
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2017-09-20 and 2017-09-20
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Generic SWAMP QAPrP
QAPP Information Reference(s): Generic SWAMP QAPrP
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 162572, Alkalinity as CaCO3
Region 6     
Saxon Creek
 
LOE ID: 338031
 
Pollutant: Alkalinity as CaCO3
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: Water Board staff assessed SWAMP Reference Condition Management Plan data for Saxon Creek to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 1 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for Alkalinity as CaCO3.
Data Reference: Benthic, Field, Habitat, WQ from the Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program for the 2026 Integrated Report in Region 6
 
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, Lahontan Region).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
 
Evaluation Guideline: The USEPA recommended alkalinity criterion continuous concentration (CCC) for the protection of aquatic life in freshwater is a minimum value of 20,000 ug/L (4-day average).
Guideline Reference: National Recommended Water Quality Criteria. United States Environmental Protection Agency. Office of Water. Current as of 08/03/2016.
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site: 634SAX121 (Saxon Creek ~2.1mi above Trout Cr.).
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2018-08-22 and 2018-08-22
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Generic SWAMP QAPrP
QAPP Information Reference(s): Generic SWAMP QAPrP
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 162572, Alkalinity as CaCO3
Region 6     
Saxon Creek
 
LOE ID: 337853
 
Pollutant: Alkalinity as CaCO3
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: Water Board staff assessed TRPA Tahoe Ambient Monitoring data for Saxon Creek to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 1 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for Alkalinity as CaCO3.
Data Reference: Benthic, Field, Habitat from the Tahoe Regional Planning Authority for the 2026 Integrated Report in Region 6
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: All waters shall be maintained free of toxic substances in concentrations that are toxic to, or that produce detrimental physiological responses in human, plant, animal, or aquatic life (Water Quality Control Plan, Lahontan Region).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
 
Evaluation Guideline: The USEPA recommended alkalinity criterion continuous concentration (CCC) for the protection of aquatic life in freshwater is a minimum value of 20,000 ug/L (4-day average).
Guideline Reference: National Recommended Water Quality Criteria. United States Environmental Protection Agency. Office of Water. Current as of 08/03/2016.
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site: 634S17329 (634S17329 Saxon Creek Status 2017).
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2017-09-11 and 2017-09-11
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Generic SWAMP QAPrP
QAPP Information Reference(s): Generic SWAMP QAPrP
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 162572, Alkalinity as CaCO3
Region 6     
Saxon Creek
 
LOE ID: 337834
 
Pollutant: Alkalinity as CaCO3
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: Water Board staff assessed TRPA Tahoe Ambient Monitoring data for Saxon Creek to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 1 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for Alkalinity as CaCO3.
Data Reference: Benthic, Field, Habitat from the Tahoe Regional Planning Authority for the 2026 Integrated Report in Region 6
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: All waters shall be maintained free of toxic substances in concentrations that are toxic to, or that produce detrimental physiological responses in human, plant, animal, or aquatic life (Water Quality Control Plan, Lahontan Region).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
 
Evaluation Guideline: The USEPA recommended alkalinity criterion continuous concentration (CCC) for the protection of aquatic life in freshwater is a minimum value of 20,000 ug/L (4-day average).
Guideline Reference: National Recommended Water Quality Criteria. United States Environmental Protection Agency. Office of Water. Current as of 08/03/2016.
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site: 634S18373 (634S18373 Saxon Creek Status 2018).
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2018-10-04 and 2018-10-04
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Generic SWAMP QAPrP
QAPP Information Reference(s): Generic SWAMP QAPrP
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 162572, Alkalinity as CaCO3
Region 6     
Saxon Creek
 
LOE ID: 337818
 
Pollutant: Alkalinity as CaCO3
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 5
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed TRPA Tahoe Ambient Monitoring data for Saxon Creek to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 5 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for Alkalinity as CaCO3.
Data Reference: Benthic, Field, Habitat from the Tahoe Regional Planning Authority for the 2026 Integrated Report in Region 6
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: All waters shall be maintained free of toxic substances in concentrations that are toxic to, or that produce detrimental physiological responses in human, plant, animal, or aquatic life (Water Quality Control Plan, Lahontan Region).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
 
Evaluation Guideline: The USEPA recommended alkalinity criterion continuous concentration (CCC) for the protection of aquatic life in freshwater is a minimum value of 20,000 ug/L (4-day average).
Guideline Reference: National Recommended Water Quality Criteria. United States Environmental Protection Agency. Office of Water. Current as of 08/03/2016.
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site: 634SAX0FS (US Forest Service site Saxon Creek).
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2013-08-26 and 2018-09-27
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Generic SWAMP QAPrP
QAPP Information Reference(s): Generic SWAMP QAPrP
 
 
DECISION ID
170356
Region 6     
Saxon Creek
 
Pollutant: Ammonia
Final Listing Decision: Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)(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 the available data and information, SWRCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should not be placed on the section 303(d) list because it cannot be determined if applicable water quality standards are not being exceeded.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 170356, Ammonia
Region 6     
Saxon Creek
 
LOE ID: 98350
 
Pollutant: Nitrogen, ammonia (Total Ammonia)
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 1
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed SWAMP Perennial Stream Surveys data for Saxon Creek to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 1 samples exceeded the water quality standard for Ammonia as N.
Data Reference: Water Quality Assessment Data for the 2018 solicitation cycle submitted through CEDEN for the SWAMP Perennial Stream Surveys.
 
SWAMP Data: SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Total Ammonia criterion continuous concentration (expressed as a 30-day average) to protect aquatic life in freshwater is Temperature and pH dependent, and was calculated according to the formula listed in the Aquatic Life Ambient Water Quality Criteria for Ammonia - Freshwater 2013 document.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Aquatic Life Ambient Water Quality Criteria for Ammonia - Freshwater 2013
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site(s) (634PS0126)
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2013-08-28 and 2013-08-28
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Quality Assurance Program Plan and Standard Operating Procedures for SWAMP program
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Program Plans, Quality Assurance Project Plans, and Standard Operating Procedures for the SWAMP program
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 170356, Ammonia
Region 6     
Saxon Creek
 
LOE ID: 338254
 
Pollutant: Ammonia (Unionized)
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 1
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed SWAMP Reference Condition Management Plan data for Saxon Creek to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 1 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for Ammonia as N, Unionized.
Data Reference: Benthic, Field, Habitat, WQ from the Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program for the 2026 Integrated Report in Region 6
 
SWAMP Data: SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The un-ionized ammonia water quality objective to protect aquatic life in freshwater is temperature and pH dependent and is calculated according to the equation for the four-day criterion defined in Chapter 3 of The Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site: 634SAX121 (Saxon Creek ~2.1mi above Trout Cr.).
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2018-08-22 and 2018-08-22
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Generic SWAMP QAPrP
QAPP Information Reference(s): Generic SWAMP QAPrP
 
 
DECISION ID
171769
Region 6     
Saxon Creek
 
Pollutant: Benthic Community Effects
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: Benthic Community Effects are being considered for placement on the CWA section 303(d) List under sections 3.9 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.9, additional lines of evidence (LOEs) associating the Benthic Community Effects decision with a water or sediment concentration of pollutants other than benthic-macroinvertebrate bioassessment or habitat assessment LOEs are necessary to place a water body on the 303(d) List for Benthic Community Effects.

Nine lines of evidence evaluating benthic-macroinvertebrate bioassessment data are available in the administrative record to assess this indicator. Zero of eighteen benthic-macroinvertebrate samples exceed the California Stream Condition Index (CSCI) impairment threshold. These data indicate that the waterbody is likely unimpaired for Benthic Community Effects and therefore no other pollutant LOEs need be associated with this decision at this time.

Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is sufficient justification against placing Benthic Community Effects in this waterbody segment on the CWA section 303(d) List.

This conclusion is based on the staff findings that:
1. The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy.
2. The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy.
3. Zero of eighteen benthic-macroinvertebrate bioassessment samples had CSCI scores below 0.79. Therefore, this water body is not exceeding the water quality threshold for the protection of the COLD beneficial use. The available information indicates that the waterbody/pollutant combination should not be placed on the 303(d) List of impaired waters at this time.
4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.
 
Regional Board Decision Recommendation: After review of the available data and information, RWQCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should not be placed on the section 303(d) list because applicable water quality standards are not being exceeded.
 
State Board Review of Regional Board Conclusion and Recommendation:
 
State Board Decision Recommendation:
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 171769, Benthic Community Effects
Region 6     
Saxon Creek
 
LOE ID: 352855
 
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: 0
 
Data and Information Type: Benthic macroinvertebrate surveys
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed data for 634SAX121 to determine beneficial use support and the results are as follows: 0 of 1 samples exceeded the water quality standard. CSCI scores were from 0.923168976 to 0.923168976 .
Data Reference: Benthic, Field, Habitat, WQ from the Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program for the 2026 Integrated Report in Region 6
 
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. (Lahontan Basin Plan)
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
 
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 1 monitoring site: 634SAX121 (Saxon Creek ~2.1mi above Trout Cr.).
Temporal Representation: Samples were collected from 2018-08-22 to 2018-08-22.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Generic SWAMP QAPrP
QAPP Information Reference(s): Generic SWAMP QAPrP
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 171769, Benthic Community Effects
Region 6     
Saxon Creek
 
LOE ID: 352850
 
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: 0
 
Data and Information Type: Benthic macroinvertebrate surveys
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed data for 634S18373 to determine beneficial use support and the results are as follows: 0 of 1 samples exceeded the water quality standard. CSCI scores were from 1.11531 to 1.11531 .
Data Reference: Benthic, Field, Habitat from the Tahoe Regional Planning Authority for the 2026 Integrated Report in Region 6
 
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. (Lahontan Basin Plan)
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
 
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 1 monitoring site: 634S18373 (634S18373 Saxon Creek Status 2018).
Temporal Representation: Samples were collected from 2018-10-04 to 2018-10-04.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Generic SWAMP QAPrP
QAPP Information Reference(s): Generic SWAMP QAPrP
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 171769, Benthic Community Effects
Region 6     
Saxon Creek
 
LOE ID: 352800
 
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: 0
 
Data and Information Type: Benthic macroinvertebrate surveys
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed data for 634S14253 to determine beneficial use support and the results are as follows: 0 of 1 samples exceeded the water quality standard. CSCI scores were from 1.11963 to 1.11963 .
Data Reference: Benthic, Field, Habitat from the Tahoe Regional Planning Authority for the 2026 Integrated Report in Region 6
 
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. (Lahontan Basin Plan)
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
 
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 1 monitoring site: 634S14253 (Saxon Creek 634S14253 Status 2014).
Temporal Representation: Samples were collected from 2014-09-05 to 2014-09-05.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Generic SWAMP QAPrP
QAPP Information Reference(s): Generic SWAMP QAPrP
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 171769, Benthic Community Effects
Region 6     
Saxon Creek
 
LOE ID: 352866
 
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: 0
 
Data and Information Type: Benthic macroinvertebrate surveys
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed data for 634TPB109 to determine beneficial use support and the results are as follows: 0 of 1 samples exceeded the water quality standard. CSCI scores were from 1.23263 to 1.23263 .
Data Reference: Benthic, Field, Habitat from the Tahoe Regional Planning Authority for the 2026 Integrated Report in Region 6
 
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. (Lahontan Basin Plan)
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
 
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 1 monitoring site: 634TPB109 (Saxon Creek 634010109 Trend Panel B).
Temporal Representation: Samples were collected from 2017-09-20 to 2017-09-20.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Generic SWAMP QAPrP
QAPP Information Reference(s): Generic SWAMP QAPrP
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 171769, Benthic Community Effects
Region 6     
Saxon Creek
 
LOE ID: 96372
 
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: 0
 
Data and Information Type: Not Specified
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: The site had a CSCI score of 0.985321565. Therefore, this site is not exceeding the water quality objective for the aquatic life beneficial use.
Data Reference: Water Quality Assessment Data for the 2018 solicitation cycle submitted through CEDEN for the SWAMP Perennial Stream Surveys.
 
SWAMP Data: SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: All waters shall be maintained free of toxic substances in concentrations that are lethal to or that produce significant alterations in population or community ecology or receiving water biota. In addition, the health and life history characteristics of aquatic organisms in waters affected by controllable water quality factors shall not differ significantly from those for the same waters in areas unaffected by controllable water quality factors.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
 
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: Collected at site 634PS0126
Temporal Representation: Collected on 8/28/2013
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: QAPP for SWAMP Perennial Stream Surveys
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Program Plans, Quality Assurance Project Plans, and Standard Operating Procedures for the SWAMP program
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 171769, Benthic Community Effects
Region 6     
Saxon Creek
 
LOE ID: 96496
 
Pollutant: Benthic-Macroinvertebrate Bioassessments
LOE Subgroup: Population/Community Degradation
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 5
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: Benthic macroinvertebrate surveys
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: The CSCI score from this site is 1.141516, 1.130017309, 0.973684, 1.191342, 1.214095 which is meeting the water quality objective.
Data Reference: Water Quality Assessment Data for the 2018 solicitation cycle submitted through CEDEN for the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency (TRPA) Tahoe Ambient Monitoring program.
 
SWAMP Data:
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: All waters shall be maintained free of toxic substances in concentrations that are lethal to or that produce significant alterations in population or community ecology or receiving water biota. In addition, the health and life history characteristics of aquatic organisms in waters affected by controllable water quality factors shall not differ significantly from those for the same waters in areas unaffected by controllable water quality factors.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
 
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: Sample collected at the following stations:
634S14253
634SAX003
634SAX004
634SAX005
634SAX001
Temporal Representation: Sample collected on 8/22/2001, 9/11/2007(multiple sites), and 9/5/2014
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: QAPP for TRPA Tahoe Ambient Monitoring
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Program Plans, Quality Assurance Project Plans, and Standard Operating Procedures for the SWAMP program
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 171769, Benthic Community Effects
Region 6     
Saxon Creek
 
LOE ID: 352854
 
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: 0
 
Data and Information Type: Benthic macroinvertebrate surveys
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed data for 634SAX0FS to determine beneficial use support and the results are as follows: 0 of 6 samples exceeded the water quality standard. CSCI scores were from 0.979938 to 1.22964 .
Data Reference: Benthic, Field, Habitat from the Tahoe Regional Planning Authority for the 2026 Integrated Report in Region 6
 
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. (Lahontan Basin Plan)
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
 
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 1 monitoring site: 634SAX0FS (US Forest Service site Saxon Creek).
Temporal Representation: Samples were collected from 2013-08-26 to 2018-09-27.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Generic SWAMP QAPrP
QAPP Information Reference(s): Generic SWAMP QAPrP
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 171769, Benthic Community Effects
Region 6     
Saxon Creek
 
LOE ID: 352831
 
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: 0
 
Data and Information Type: Benthic macroinvertebrate surveys
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed data for 634S17329 to determine beneficial use support and the results are as follows: 0 of 1 samples exceeded the water quality standard. CSCI scores were from 1.23224 to 1.23224 .
Data Reference: Benthic, Field, Habitat from the Tahoe Regional Planning Authority for the 2026 Integrated Report in Region 6
 
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. (Lahontan Basin Plan)
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
 
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 1 monitoring site: 634S17329 (634S17329 Saxon Creek Status 2017).
Temporal Representation: Samples were collected from 2017-09-11 to 2017-09-11.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Generic SWAMP QAPrP
QAPP Information Reference(s): Generic SWAMP QAPrP
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 171769, Benthic Community Effects
Region 6     
Saxon Creek
 
LOE ID: 352790
 
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: 0
 
Data and Information Type: Benthic macroinvertebrate surveys
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed data for 634REFSAX to determine beneficial use support and the results are as follows: 0 of 1 samples exceeded the water quality standard. CSCI scores were from 1.14507 to 1.14507 .
Data Reference: Benthic, Field, Habitat from the Tahoe Regional Planning Authority for the 2026 Integrated Report in Region 6
 
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. (Lahontan Basin Plan)
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
 
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 1 monitoring site: 634REFSAX (Saxon Creek Reference).
Temporal Representation: Samples were collected from 2017-10-10 to 2017-10-10.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Generic SWAMP QAPrP
QAPP Information Reference(s): Generic SWAMP QAPrP
 
 
DECISION ID
162566
Region 6     
Saxon Creek
 
Pollutant: Chloride
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 the available data and information, SWRCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should not be placed on the section 303(d) list because it cannot be determined if applicable water quality standards are not being exceeded.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 162566, Chloride
Region 6     
Saxon Creek
 
LOE ID: 347689
 
Pollutant: Chloride
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 1
Number of Exceedances: 1
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed SWAMP Reference Condition Management Plan data to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows:
1 of 1 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for Chloride
Data Reference: Benthic, Field, Habitat, WQ from the Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program for the 2026 Integrated Report in Region 6
 
SWAMP Data: SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Basin Plan objective for Chloride in this water body is 0.15 (mg/L), (as a Mean).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site: Saxon Creek ~2.1mi above Trout Cr. (634SAX121)
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2018-08-22 and 2018-08-22
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Generic SWAMP QAPrP
QAPP Information Reference(s): Generic SWAMP QAPrP
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 162566, Chloride
Region 6     
Saxon Creek
 
LOE ID: 96884
 
Pollutant: Chloride
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 1
Number of Exceedances: 1
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Data were collected on one day in August 2013 for the SWAMP Perennial Stream Survey. The chloride concentration was reported as 0.33 mg/L, which exceeds the site specific objective.
Data Reference: Water Quality Assessment Data for the 2018 solicitation cycle submitted through CEDEN for the SWAMP Perennial Stream Surveys.
 
SWAMP Data: SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The site specific objective for chloride in Saxon Creek, as referenced in the Lahontan Basin Plan table 3-12 and applied because the waterbody is tributary to Trout Creek (El Dorado Co; tributary rule), is an annual average concentration not to exceed 0.15 mg/L.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data were collected from one location, 634PS0126, which is found ~0.6 miles upstream of the confluence with Trout Creek.
Temporal Representation: Data were collected on one day in August 2013.
Environmental Conditions: Saxon Creek drains a part of the southern-most portion of the Lake Tahoe Basin, flowing from the Tahoe Rim through the town of Meyers before joining Trout Creek just to the south of South Lake Tahoe. The drainage was historically logged for use in the silver mines during the Comstock Lode in Nevada, has been grazed in the past, and the lower portions of the watershed were used for a now defunct landfill. Today the drainage is heavily forested with even-aged stands which the USFS is working to thin. During the warmer months (i.e. when snow is not on the ground) the drainage sees high recreational use from motorized and non-motorized vehicle traffic, hikers and horseback riders.
QAPP Information: Data were collected in accordance with the SWAMP QAPP.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Program Plans, Quality Assurance Project Plans, and Standard Operating Procedures for the SWAMP program
 
 
DECISION ID
162567
Region 6     
Saxon Creek
 
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)(2018)
Revision Status Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: This pollutant is being considered for placement on the CWA section 303(d) List under section 3.1 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.1 a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status.

One line of evidence is available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. 0 of 1 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 does not satisfy the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy.
3. 0 of 1 samples 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 are 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:
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 162567, Nitrate/Nitrite (Nitrite + Nitrate as N)
Region 6     
Saxon Creek
 
LOE ID: 97682
 
Pollutant: Nitrate/Nitrite (Nitrite + Nitrate as N)
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: Water Board staff assessed SWAMP Perennial Stream Surveys data for Saxon Creek to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 1 samples exceeded the water quality standard for Nitrate + Nitrite as N.
Data Reference: Water Quality Assessment Data for the 2018 solicitation cycle submitted through CEDEN for the SWAMP Perennial Stream Surveys.
 
SWAMP Data: SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The California Maximum Contaminant Level for nitrate + nitrite (as N) that is incorporated by reference in the Water Quality Control Plan, Lahontan Region is 10.0 mg/L (Water Quality Control Plan, Lahontan Region).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site(s) (634PS0126)
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2013-08-28 and 2013-08-28
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Quality Assurance Program Plan and Standard Operating Procedures for SWAMP program
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Program Plans, Quality Assurance Project Plans, and Standard Operating Procedures for the SWAMP program
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 162567, Nitrate/Nitrite (Nitrite + Nitrate as N)
Region 6     
Saxon Creek
 
LOE ID: 338828
 
Pollutant: Nitrate/Nitrite (Nitrite + Nitrate as N)
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Dissolved
 
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: Water Board staff assessed SWAMP Reference Condition Management Plan data for Saxon Creek to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 1 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for Nitrate + Nitrite as N.
Data Reference: Benthic, Field, Habitat, WQ from the Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program for the 2026 Integrated Report in Region 6
 
SWAMP Data: SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The California Maximum Contaminant Level for nitrate + nitrite (as N) that is incorporated by reference in the Water Quality Control Plan, Lahontan Region is 10.0 mg/L (Water Quality Control Plan, Lahontan Region).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site: 634SAX121 (Saxon Creek ~2.1mi above Trout Cr.).
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2018-08-22 and 2018-08-22
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Generic SWAMP QAPrP
QAPP Information Reference(s): Generic SWAMP QAPrP
 
 
DECISION ID
170357
Region 6     
Saxon Creek
 
Pollutant: Nitrogen, Nitrate
Final Listing Decision: Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: New Decision
Revision Status Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: Insufficient information is available to determine beneficial use support for this waterbody-pollutant combination with the statistical power and confidence required by the Listing Policy. Beneficial use support will be reassessed in a future cycle, if more data are available
 
Regional Board Decision Recommendation: After review of the available data and information, RWQCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should not be placed on the section 303(d) list. The readily available data and information is insufficient to determine, with the power and confidence of the Listing Policy, the applicable beneficial use support rating.
 
State Board Review of Regional Board Conclusion and Recommendation:
 
State Board Decision Recommendation: After review of the available data and information, SWRCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should not be placed on the section 303(d) list because it cannot be determined if applicable water quality standards are not being exceeded.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 170357, Nitrogen, Nitrate
Region 6     
Saxon Creek
 
LOE ID: 338891
 
Pollutant: Nitrogen, Nitrate
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Dissolved
 
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: Water Board staff assessed SWAMP Reference Condition Management Plan data for Saxon Creek to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 1 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for Nitrate as N.
Data Reference: Benthic, Field, Habitat, WQ from the Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program for the 2026 Integrated Report in Region 6
 
SWAMP Data: SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The California Maximum Contaminant Level for nitrate (NO3 as N) incorporated by reference in the Water Quality Control Plan, Lahontan Region is 10.0 mg/L (Water Quality Control Plan, Lahontan Region).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site: 634SAX121 (Saxon Creek ~2.1mi above Trout Cr.).
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2018-08-22 and 2018-08-22
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Generic SWAMP QAPrP
QAPP Information Reference(s): Generic SWAMP QAPrP
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 170357, Nitrogen, Nitrate
Region 6     
Saxon Creek
 
LOE ID: 339009
 
Pollutant: Nitrogen, Nitrite
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Dissolved
 
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: Water Board staff assessed SWAMP Reference Condition Management Plan data for Saxon Creek to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 1 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for Nitrite as N.
Data Reference: Benthic, Field, Habitat, WQ from the Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program for the 2026 Integrated Report in Region 6
 
SWAMP Data: SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Water Quality Control Plan, Lahontan Basin, Objective for Municipal and Domestic Supply uses of inland surface waters states the following: waters shall not contain concentrations of inorganic chemicals in excess of the limits specified in California Code of Regulations, Title 22, Table 64431-A of section 64431 (Inorganic Chemicals). The maximum contaminant level listed in Table 64431-A for Nitrite as N is 1.0 mg/L.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site: 634SAX121 (Saxon Creek ~2.1mi above Trout Cr.).
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2018-08-22 and 2018-08-22
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Generic SWAMP QAPrP
QAPP Information Reference(s): Generic SWAMP QAPrP
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 170357, Nitrogen, Nitrate
Region 6     
Saxon Creek
 
LOE ID: 338954
 
Pollutant: Nitrate as Nitrate (NO3)
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Not Recorded
 
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: Water Board staff assessed League to Save Lake Tahoe Truckee Tahoe Snapshot D data for Saxon Creek to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 1 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for Nitrate as NO3.
Data Reference: Field, WQ from the Truckee Tahoe Snapshot Day for the 2026 Integrated Report in Region 6
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The California Maximum Contaminant Level for Nitrate incorporated by reference in the Water Quality Control Plan, Lahontan Region is 45000 ug/L (Water Quality Control Plan, Lahontan Region).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site: SLT-SAXN-01 (Saxon Creek at Fountain Pl. Rd.).
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2010-05-22 and 2010-05-22
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Tahoe Truckee Snapshot QAPP
QAPP Information Reference(s): Lahontan Water Board - TahoeTruckeeSnapshotQAPP - League to Save Lake Tahoe Truckee Tahoe Snapshot D - 402634
 
 
DECISION ID
170358
Region 6     
Saxon Creek
 
Pollutant: Nitrogen, Nitrite
Final Listing Decision: Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: New Decision
Revision Status Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: Insufficient information is available to determine beneficial use support for this waterbody-pollutant combination with the statistical power and confidence required by the Listing Policy. Beneficial use support will be reassessed in a future cycle, if more data are available
 
Regional Board Decision Recommendation: After review of the available data and information, RWQCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should not be placed on the section 303(d) list. The readily available data and information is insufficient to determine, with the power and confidence of the Listing Policy, the applicable beneficial use support rating.
 
State Board Review of Regional Board Conclusion and Recommendation:
 
State Board Decision Recommendation: After review of the available data and information, SWRCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should not be placed on the section 303(d) list because it cannot be determined if applicable water quality standards are not being exceeded.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 170358, Nitrogen, Nitrite
Region 6     
Saxon Creek
 
LOE ID: 339009
 
Pollutant: Nitrogen, Nitrite
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Dissolved
 
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: Water Board staff assessed SWAMP Reference Condition Management Plan data for Saxon Creek to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 1 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for Nitrite as N.
Data Reference: Benthic, Field, Habitat, WQ from the Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program for the 2026 Integrated Report in Region 6
 
SWAMP Data: SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Water Quality Control Plan, Lahontan Basin, Objective for Municipal and Domestic Supply uses of inland surface waters states the following: waters shall not contain concentrations of inorganic chemicals in excess of the limits specified in California Code of Regulations, Title 22, Table 64431-A of section 64431 (Inorganic Chemicals). The maximum contaminant level listed in Table 64431-A for Nitrite as N is 1.0 mg/L.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site: 634SAX121 (Saxon Creek ~2.1mi above Trout Cr.).
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2018-08-22 and 2018-08-22
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Generic SWAMP QAPrP
QAPP Information Reference(s): Generic SWAMP QAPrP
 
 
DECISION ID
170359
Region 6     
Saxon Creek
 
Pollutant: Specific Conductivity
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 the available data and information, SWRCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should not be placed on the section 303(d) list because it cannot be determined if applicable water quality standards are not being exceeded.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 170359, Specific Conductivity
Region 6     
Saxon Creek
 
LOE ID: 340395
 
Pollutant: Specific Conductivity
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
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: Water Board staff assessed TRPA Tahoe Ambient Monitoring data for Saxon Creek to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 1 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for SpecificConductivity.
Data Reference: Benthic, Field, Habitat from the Tahoe Regional Planning Authority for the 2026 Integrated Report in Region 6
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water designated as MUN shall not contain concentrations of chemical constituents in excess of the maximum contaminant level (MCL) or secondary maximum contaminant level (SMCL) based upon drinking water standards specified in Title 22 of the California Code of Regulations (Water Quality Control Plan, Lahontan Region).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
 
Evaluation Guideline: California Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs) apply to ambient waters under the Lahontan Basin Plan's 'Chemical Constituents' objective. The California Secondary MCL for specific conductivity is 900 uS/cm.
Guideline Reference: California Code of Regulations, Title 22, Division 4, Chapter 15. Domestic Water Quality and Monitoring
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site: 634S18373 (634S18373 Saxon Creek Status 2018).
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2018-10-04 and 2018-10-04
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Generic SWAMP QAPrP
QAPP Information Reference(s): Generic SWAMP QAPrP
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 170359, Specific Conductivity
Region 6     
Saxon Creek
 
LOE ID: 340326
 
Pollutant: Specific Conductivity
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
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: Water Board staff assessed TRPA Tahoe Ambient Monitoring data for Saxon Creek to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 1 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for SpecificConductivity.
Data Reference: Benthic, Field, Habitat from the Tahoe Regional Planning Authority for the 2026 Integrated Report in Region 6
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water designated as MUN shall not contain concentrations of chemical constituents in excess of the maximum contaminant level (MCL) or secondary maximum contaminant level (SMCL) based upon drinking water standards specified in Title 22 of the California Code of Regulations (Water Quality Control Plan, Lahontan Region).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
 
Evaluation Guideline: California Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs) apply to ambient waters under the Lahontan Basin Plan's 'Chemical Constituents' objective. The California Secondary MCL for specific conductivity is 900 uS/cm.
Guideline Reference: California Code of Regulations, Title 22, Division 4, Chapter 15. Domestic Water Quality and Monitoring
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site: 634REFSAX (Saxon Creek Reference).
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2017-10-10 and 2017-10-10
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Generic SWAMP QAPrP
QAPP Information Reference(s): Generic SWAMP QAPrP
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 170359, Specific Conductivity
Region 6     
Saxon Creek
 
LOE ID: 340632
 
Pollutant: Specific Conductivity
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
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: Water Board staff assessed League to Save Lake Tahoe Truckee Tahoe Snapshot D data for Saxon Creek to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 1 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for SpecificConductivity.
Data Reference: Field, WQ from the Truckee Tahoe Snapshot Day for the 2026 Integrated Report in Region 6
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water designated as MUN shall not contain concentrations of chemical constituents in excess of the maximum contaminant level (MCL) or secondary maximum contaminant level (SMCL) based upon drinking water standards specified in Title 22 of the California Code of Regulations (Water Quality Control Plan, Lahontan Region).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
 
Evaluation Guideline: California Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs) apply to ambient waters under the Lahontan Basin Plan's 'Chemical Constituents' objective. The California Secondary MCL for specific conductivity is 900 uS/cm.
Guideline Reference: California Code of Regulations, Title 22, Division 4, Chapter 15. Domestic Water Quality and Monitoring
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site: SLT-SAXN-01 (Saxon Creek at Fountain Pl. Rd.).
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2010-05-22 and 2010-05-22
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Tahoe Truckee Snapshot QAPP
QAPP Information Reference(s): Lahontan Water Board - TahoeTruckeeSnapshotQAPP - League to Save Lake Tahoe Truckee Tahoe Snapshot D - 402634
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 170359, Specific Conductivity
Region 6     
Saxon Creek
 
LOE ID: 340381
 
Pollutant: Specific Conductivity
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Municipal & Domestic Supply
 
Number of Samples: 5
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed League to Save Lake Tahoe Truckee Tahoe Snapshot D data for Saxon Creek to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 5 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for SpecificConductivity.
Data Reference: Field, WQ from the Truckee Tahoe Snapshot Day for the 2026 Integrated Report in Region 6
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water designated as MUN shall not contain concentrations of chemical constituents in excess of the maximum contaminant level (MCL) or secondary maximum contaminant level (SMCL) based upon drinking water standards specified in Title 22 of the California Code of Regulations (Water Quality Control Plan, Lahontan Region).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
 
Evaluation Guideline: California Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs) apply to ambient waters under the Lahontan Basin Plan's 'Chemical Constituents' objective. The California Secondary MCL for specific conductivity is 900 uS/cm.
Guideline Reference: California Code of Regulations, Title 22, Division 4, Chapter 15. Domestic Water Quality and Monitoring
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site: SLT-SAXN-00 (Saxon Creek upstream of Trout Creek Confluence).
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2003-05-10 and 2009-05-16
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Tahoe Truckee Snapshot QAPP
QAPP Information Reference(s): Lahontan Water Board - TahoeTruckeeSnapshotQAPP - League to Save Lake Tahoe Truckee Tahoe Snapshot D - 402634
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 170359, Specific Conductivity
Region 6     
Saxon Creek
 
LOE ID: 340676
 
Pollutant: Specific Conductivity
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
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: Water Board staff assessed SWAMP Reference Condition Management Plan data for Saxon Creek to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 1 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for SpecificConductivity.
Data Reference: Benthic, Field, Habitat, WQ from the Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program for the 2026 Integrated Report in Region 6
 
SWAMP Data: SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water designated as MUN shall not contain concentrations of chemical constituents in excess of the maximum contaminant level (MCL) or secondary maximum contaminant level (SMCL) based upon drinking water standards specified in Title 22 of the California Code of Regulations (Water Quality Control Plan, Lahontan Region).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
 
Evaluation Guideline: California Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs) apply to ambient waters under the Lahontan Basin Plan's 'Chemical Constituents' objective. The California Secondary MCL for specific conductivity is 900 uS/cm.
Guideline Reference: California Code of Regulations, Title 22, Division 4, Chapter 15. Domestic Water Quality and Monitoring
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site: 634SAX121 (Saxon Creek ~2.1mi above Trout Cr.).
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2018-08-22 and 2018-08-22
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Generic SWAMP QAPrP
QAPP Information Reference(s): Generic SWAMP QAPrP
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 170359, Specific Conductivity
Region 6     
Saxon Creek
 
LOE ID: 340547
 
Pollutant: Specific Conductivity
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
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: Water Board staff assessed TRPA Tahoe Ambient Monitoring data for Saxon Creek to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 1 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for SpecificConductivity.
Data Reference: Benthic, Field, Habitat from the Tahoe Regional Planning Authority for the 2026 Integrated Report in Region 6
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water designated as MUN shall not contain concentrations of chemical constituents in excess of the maximum contaminant level (MCL) or secondary maximum contaminant level (SMCL) based upon drinking water standards specified in Title 22 of the California Code of Regulations (Water Quality Control Plan, Lahontan Region).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
 
Evaluation Guideline: California Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs) apply to ambient waters under the Lahontan Basin Plan's 'Chemical Constituents' objective. The California Secondary MCL for specific conductivity is 900 uS/cm.
Guideline Reference: California Code of Regulations, Title 22, Division 4, Chapter 15. Domestic Water Quality and Monitoring
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site: 634TPB109 (Saxon Creek 634010109 Trend Panel B).
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2017-09-20 and 2017-09-20
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Generic SWAMP QAPrP
QAPP Information Reference(s): Generic SWAMP QAPrP
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 170359, Specific Conductivity
Region 6     
Saxon Creek
 
LOE ID: 340538
 
Pollutant: Specific Conductivity
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: Water Board staff assessed TRPA Tahoe Ambient Monitoring data for Saxon Creek to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 6 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for SpecificConductivity.
Data Reference: Benthic, Field, Habitat from the Tahoe Regional Planning Authority for the 2026 Integrated Report in Region 6
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water designated as MUN shall not contain concentrations of chemical constituents in excess of the maximum contaminant level (MCL) or secondary maximum contaminant level (SMCL) based upon drinking water standards specified in Title 22 of the California Code of Regulations (Water Quality Control Plan, Lahontan Region).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
 
Evaluation Guideline: California Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs) apply to ambient waters under the Lahontan Basin Plan's 'Chemical Constituents' objective. The California Secondary MCL for specific conductivity is 900 uS/cm.
Guideline Reference: California Code of Regulations, Title 22, Division 4, Chapter 15. Domestic Water Quality and Monitoring
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site: 634SAX0FS (US Forest Service site Saxon Creek).
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2013-08-26 and 2018-09-27
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Generic SWAMP QAPrP
QAPP Information Reference(s): Generic SWAMP QAPrP
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 170359, Specific Conductivity
Region 6     
Saxon Creek
 
LOE ID: 340371
 
Pollutant: Specific Conductivity
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
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: Water Board staff assessed TRPA Tahoe Ambient Monitoring data for Saxon Creek to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 1 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for SpecificConductivity.
Data Reference: Benthic, Field, Habitat from the Tahoe Regional Planning Authority for the 2026 Integrated Report in Region 6
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water designated as MUN shall not contain concentrations of chemical constituents in excess of the maximum contaminant level (MCL) or secondary maximum contaminant level (SMCL) based upon drinking water standards specified in Title 22 of the California Code of Regulations (Water Quality Control Plan, Lahontan Region).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
 
Evaluation Guideline: California Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs) apply to ambient waters under the Lahontan Basin Plan's 'Chemical Constituents' objective. The California Secondary MCL for specific conductivity is 900 uS/cm.
Guideline Reference: California Code of Regulations, Title 22, Division 4, Chapter 15. Domestic Water Quality and Monitoring
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site: 634S17329 (634S17329 Saxon Creek Status 2017).
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2017-09-11 and 2017-09-11
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Generic SWAMP QAPrP
QAPP Information Reference(s): Generic SWAMP QAPrP
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 170359, Specific Conductivity
Region 6     
Saxon Creek
 
LOE ID: 97327
 
Pollutant: Specific Conductivity
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: Water Board staff assessed TRPA Tahoe Ambient Monitoring data for Saxon Creek to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 1 samples exceeded the water quality standard for SpecificConductivity.
Data Reference: Water Quality Assessment Data for the 2018 solicitation cycle submitted through CEDEN for the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency (TRPA) Tahoe Ambient Monitoring program.
 
SWAMP Data: SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water designated as MUN shall not contain concentrations of chemical constituents in excess of the maximum contaminant level (MCL) or secondary maximum contaminant level (SMCL) based upon drinking water standards specified in Title 22 of the California Code of Regulations (Water Quality Control Plan, Lahontan Region).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
 
Evaluation Guideline: California Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs) apply to ambient waters under the Lahontan Basin Plan's \Chemical Constituents\" objective. The California Secondary MCL for specific conductivity is 900 uS/cm."
Guideline Reference: California Code of Regulations, Title 22, Division 4, Chapter 15. Domestic Water Quality and Monitoring
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site(s) (634S14253)
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2014-09-05 and 2014-09-05
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Quality Assurance Program Plan and Standard Operating Procedures for SWAMP program
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Program Plans, Quality Assurance Project Plans, and Standard Operating Procedures for the SWAMP program
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 170359, Specific Conductivity
Region 6     
Saxon Creek
 
LOE ID: 97791
 
Pollutant: Specific Conductivity
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: Water Board staff assessed SWAMP Perennial Stream Surveys data for Saxon Creek to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 1 samples exceeded the water quality standard for SpecificConductivity.
Data Reference: Water Quality Assessment Data for the 2018 solicitation cycle submitted through CEDEN for the SWAMP Perennial Stream Surveys.
 
SWAMP Data: SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water designated as MUN shall not contain concentrations of chemical constituents in excess of the maximum contaminant level (MCL) or secondary maximum contaminant level (SMCL) based upon drinking water standards specified in Title 22 of the California Code of Regulations (Water Quality Control Plan, Lahontan Region).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
 
Evaluation Guideline: California Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs) apply to ambient waters under the Lahontan Basin Plan's \Chemical Constituents\" objective. The California Secondary MCL for specific conductivity is 900 uS/cm."
Guideline Reference: California Code of Regulations, Title 22, Division 4, Chapter 15. Domestic Water Quality and Monitoring
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site(s) (634PS0126)
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2013-08-28 and 2013-08-28
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Quality Assurance Program Plan and Standard Operating Procedures for SWAMP program
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Program Plans, Quality Assurance Project Plans, and Standard Operating Procedures for the SWAMP program
 
 
DECISION ID
162570
Region 6     
Saxon Creek
 
Pollutant: Sulfates
Final Listing Decision: Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: New Decision
Revision Status Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: Insufficient information is available to determine beneficial use support for this waterbody-pollutant combination with the statistical power and confidence required by the Listing Policy. Beneficial use support will be reassessed in a future cycle, if more data are available.
 
Regional Board Decision Recommendation: After review of the available data and information, RWQCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should not be placed on the section 303(d) list. The readily available data and information is insufficient to determine, with the power and confidence of the Listing Policy, the applicable beneficial use support rating.
 
State Board Review of Regional Board Conclusion and Recommendation:
 
State Board Decision Recommendation:
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 162570, Sulfates
Region 6     
Saxon Creek
 
LOE ID: 340755
 
Pollutant: Sulfates
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Dissolved
 
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: Water Board staff assessed SWAMP Reference Condition Management Plan data for Saxon Creek to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 1 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for Sulfate.
Data Reference: Benthic, Field, Habitat, WQ from the Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program for the 2026 Integrated Report in Region 6
 
SWAMP Data: SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The California Secondary MCL that is incorporated by reference in the Water Quality Control Plan, Lahontan Region for Sulfate 250 mg/L (Water Quality Control Plan, Lahontan Region).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site: 634SAX121 (Saxon Creek ~2.1mi above Trout Cr.).
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2018-08-22 and 2018-08-22
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Generic SWAMP QAPrP
QAPP Information Reference(s): Generic SWAMP QAPrP
 
 
DECISION ID
162571
Region 6     
Saxon Creek
 
Pollutant: Turbidity
Final Listing Decision: Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)(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 the available data and information, SWRCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should not be placed on the section 303(d) list because it cannot be determined if applicable water quality standards are not being exceeded.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 162571, Turbidity
Region 6     
Saxon Creek
 
LOE ID: 340936
 
Pollutant: Turbidity
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: Water Board staff assessed SWAMP Reference Condition Management Plan data for Saxon Creek to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 1 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for Turbidity.
Data Reference: Benthic, Field, Habitat, WQ from the Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program for the 2026 Integrated Report in Region 6
 
SWAMP Data: SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water designated as MUN shall not contain concentrations of chemical constituents in excess of the maximum contaminant level (MCL) or secondary maximum contaminant level (SMCL) based upon drinking water standards specified in Title 22 of the California Code of Regulations. The Lahontan Basin Plan also has regionwide turbidity objective for other beneficial uses that states: Waters shall be free of changes in turbidity that cause nuisance or adversely affect the water for beneficial uses. Increases in turbidity shall not exceed natural levels by more than 10%.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
 
Evaluation Guideline: California Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs) apply to ambient surface waters under the Lahontan Basin Plan's 'Chemical Constituents' objective. The Secondary MCL for turbidity is 5 NTU. Calculation of a numeric objective for other beneficial uses requires comparison with upstream or other background data which may not be available as part of the data used for water quality assessment.
Guideline Reference: California Code of Regulations, Title 22, Division 4, Chapter 15. Domestic Water Quality and Monitoring
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site: 634SAX121 (Saxon Creek ~2.1mi above Trout Cr.).
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2018-08-22 and 2018-08-22
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Generic SWAMP QAPrP
QAPP Information Reference(s): Generic SWAMP QAPrP
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 162571, Turbidity
Region 6     
Saxon Creek
 
LOE ID: 340966
 
Pollutant: Turbidity
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Municipal & Domestic Supply
 
Number of Samples: 2
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed League to Save Lake Tahoe Truckee Tahoe Snapshot D data for Saxon Creek to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 2 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for Turbidity.
Data Reference: Field, WQ from the Truckee Tahoe Snapshot Day for the 2026 Integrated Report in Region 6
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water designated as MUN shall not contain concentrations of chemical constituents in excess of the maximum contaminant level (MCL) or secondary maximum contaminant level (SMCL) based upon drinking water standards specified in Title 22 of the California Code of Regulations. The Lahontan Basin Plan also has regionwide turbidity objective for other beneficial uses that states: Waters shall be free of changes in turbidity that cause nuisance or adversely affect the water for beneficial uses. Increases in turbidity shall not exceed natural levels by more than 10%.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
 
Evaluation Guideline: California Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs) apply to ambient surface waters under the Lahontan Basin Plan's 'Chemical Constituents' objective. The Secondary MCL for turbidity is 5 NTU. Calculation of a numeric objective for other beneficial uses requires comparison with upstream or other background data which may not be available as part of the data used for water quality assessment.
Guideline Reference: California Code of Regulations, Title 22, Division 4, Chapter 15. Domestic Water Quality and Monitoring
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site: SLT-SAXN-01 (Saxon Creek at Fountain Pl. Rd.).
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2002-05-04 and 2010-05-22
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Tahoe Truckee Snapshot QAPP
QAPP Information Reference(s): Lahontan Water Board - TahoeTruckeeSnapshotQAPP - League to Save Lake Tahoe Truckee Tahoe Snapshot D - 402634
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 162571, Turbidity
Region 6     
Saxon Creek
 
LOE ID: 340792
 
Pollutant: Turbidity
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
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: Water Board staff assessed League to Save Lake Tahoe Truckee Tahoe Snapshot D data for Saxon Creek to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 4 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for Turbidity.
Data Reference: Field, WQ from the Truckee Tahoe Snapshot Day for the 2026 Integrated Report in Region 6
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water designated as MUN shall not contain concentrations of chemical constituents in excess of the maximum contaminant level (MCL) or secondary maximum contaminant level (SMCL) based upon drinking water standards specified in Title 22 of the California Code of Regulations. The Lahontan Basin Plan also has regionwide turbidity objective for other beneficial uses that states: Waters shall be free of changes in turbidity that cause nuisance or adversely affect the water for beneficial uses. Increases in turbidity shall not exceed natural levels by more than 10%.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
 
Evaluation Guideline: California Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs) apply to ambient surface waters under the Lahontan Basin Plan's 'Chemical Constituents' objective. The Secondary MCL for turbidity is 5 NTU. Calculation of a numeric objective for other beneficial uses requires comparison with upstream or other background data which may not be available as part of the data used for water quality assessment.
Guideline Reference: California Code of Regulations, Title 22, Division 4, Chapter 15. Domestic Water Quality and Monitoring
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site: SLT-SAXN-00 (Saxon Creek upstream of Trout Creek Confluence).
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2003-05-10 and 2009-05-16
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Tahoe Truckee Snapshot QAPP
QAPP Information Reference(s): Lahontan Water Board - TahoeTruckeeSnapshotQAPP - League to Save Lake Tahoe Truckee Tahoe Snapshot D - 402634
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 162571, Turbidity
Region 6     
Saxon Creek
 
LOE ID: 98770
 
Pollutant: Turbidity
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: Water Board staff assessed SWAMP Perennial Stream Surveys data for Saxon Creek to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 1 samples exceeded the water quality standard for Turbidity.
Data Reference: Water Quality Assessment Data for the 2018 solicitation cycle submitted through CEDEN for the SWAMP Perennial Stream Surveys.
 
SWAMP Data: SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water designated as MUN shall not contain concentrations of chemical constituents in excess of the maximum contaminant level (MCL) or secondary maximum contaminant level (SMCL) based upon drinking water standards specified in Title 22 of the California Code of Regulations. The Lahontan Basin Plan also has regionwide turbidity objective for other beneficial uses that states: Waters shall be free of changes in turbidity that cause nuisance or adversely affect the water for beneficial uses. Increases in turbidity shall not exceed natural levels by more than 10%.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
 
Evaluation Guideline: California Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs) apply to ambient surface waters under the Lahontan Basin Plan's \Chemical Constituents\" objective. The Secondary MCL for turbidity is 5 NTU. Calculation of a numeric objective for other beneficial uses requires comparison with upstream or other background data which may not be available as part of the data used for water quality assessment. "
Guideline Reference: California Code of Regulations, Title 22, Division 4, Chapter 15. Domestic Water Quality and Monitoring
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site(s) (634PS0126)
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2013-08-28 and 2013-08-28
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Quality Assurance Program Plan and Standard Operating Procedures for SWAMP program
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Program Plans, Quality Assurance Project Plans, and Standard Operating Procedures for the SWAMP program
 
 
DECISION ID
162569
Region 6     
Saxon Creek
 
Pollutant: pH
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:
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 162569, pH
Region 6     
Saxon Creek
 
LOE ID: 339930
 
Pollutant: pH
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Municipal & Domestic Supply
 
Number of Samples: 0
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed SWAMP Reference Condition Management Plan data for Saxon Creek to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 1 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for pH. The objective for this pollutant requires background information that is currently unavailable, and therefore an assessment of water quality thresholds could not be made.
Data Reference: Benthic, Field, Habitat, WQ from the Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program for the 2026 Integrated Report in Region 6
 
SWAMP Data: SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Lahontan Basin Plan's regionwide objective for pH states: 'In fresh waters with designated beneficial uses of COLD or WARM, changes in normal ambient pH levels shall not exceed 0.5 pH units. For all other waters of the region, the pH shall not be depressed below 6.5 nor raised above 8.5 units. The Regional Board recognizes that some waters of the Region may have natural pH levels outside of the 6.5 to 8.5 range. Compliance with the pH objective for these waters will be determined on a case-by-case basis.'
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site: 634SAX121 (Saxon Creek ~2.1mi above Trout Cr.).
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2018-08-22 and 2018-08-22
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Generic SWAMP QAPrP
QAPP Information Reference(s): Generic SWAMP QAPrP
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 162569, pH
Region 6     
Saxon Creek
 
LOE ID: 339924
 
Pollutant: pH
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Municipal & Domestic Supply
 
Number of Samples: 0
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed League to Save Lake Tahoe Truckee Tahoe Snapshot D data for Saxon Creek to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 5 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for pH. The objective for this pollutant requires background information that is currently unavailable, and therefore an assessment of water quality thresholds could not be made.
Data Reference: Field, WQ from the Truckee Tahoe Snapshot Day for the 2026 Integrated Report in Region 6
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Lahontan Basin Plan's regionwide objective for pH states: 'In fresh waters with designated beneficial uses of COLD or WARM, changes in normal ambient pH levels shall not exceed 0.5 pH units. For all other waters of the region, the pH shall not be depressed below 6.5 nor raised above 8.5 units. The Regional Board recognizes that some waters of the Region may have natural pH levels outside of the 6.5 to 8.5 range. Compliance with the pH objective for these waters will be determined on a case-by-case basis.'
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site: SLT-SAXN-00 (Saxon Creek upstream of Trout Creek Confluence).
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2003-05-10 and 2009-05-16
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Tahoe Truckee Snapshot QAPP
QAPP Information Reference(s): Lahontan Water Board - TahoeTruckeeSnapshotQAPP - League to Save Lake Tahoe Truckee Tahoe Snapshot D - 402634
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 162569, pH
Region 6     
Saxon Creek
 
LOE ID: 340125
 
Pollutant: pH
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Municipal & Domestic Supply
 
Number of Samples: 0
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed TRPA Tahoe Ambient Monitoring data for Saxon Creek to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 5 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for pH. The objective for this pollutant requires background information that is currently unavailable, and therefore an assessment of water quality thresholds could not be made.
Data Reference: Benthic, Field, Habitat from the Tahoe Regional Planning Authority for the 2026 Integrated Report in Region 6
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Lahontan Basin Plan's regionwide objective for pH states: 'In fresh waters with designated beneficial uses of COLD or WARM, changes in normal ambient pH levels shall not exceed 0.5 pH units. For all other waters of the region, the pH shall not be depressed below 6.5 nor raised above 8.5 units. The Regional Board recognizes that some waters of the Region may have natural pH levels outside of the 6.5 to 8.5 range. Compliance with the pH objective for these waters will be determined on a case-by-case basis.'
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site: 634SAX0FS (US Forest Service site Saxon Creek).
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2013-08-26 and 2018-09-27
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Generic SWAMP QAPrP
QAPP Information Reference(s): Generic SWAMP QAPrP
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 162569, pH
Region 6     
Saxon Creek
 
LOE ID: 339803
 
Pollutant: pH
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Municipal & Domestic Supply
 
Number of Samples: 0
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed TRPA Tahoe Ambient Monitoring data for Saxon Creek to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 1 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for pH. The objective for this pollutant requires background information that is currently unavailable, and therefore an assessment of water quality thresholds could not be made.
Data Reference: Benthic, Field, Habitat from the Tahoe Regional Planning Authority for the 2026 Integrated Report in Region 6
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Lahontan Basin Plan's regionwide objective for pH states: 'In fresh waters with designated beneficial uses of COLD or WARM, changes in normal ambient pH levels shall not exceed 0.5 pH units. For all other waters of the region, the pH shall not be depressed below 6.5 nor raised above 8.5 units. The Regional Board recognizes that some waters of the Region may have natural pH levels outside of the 6.5 to 8.5 range. Compliance with the pH objective for these waters will be determined on a case-by-case basis.'
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site: 634TPB109 (Saxon Creek 634010109 Trend Panel B).
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2017-09-20 and 2017-09-20
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Generic SWAMP QAPrP
QAPP Information Reference(s): Generic SWAMP QAPrP
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 162569, pH
Region 6     
Saxon Creek
 
LOE ID: 339536
 
Pollutant: pH
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Municipal & Domestic Supply
 
Number of Samples: 0
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed League to Save Lake Tahoe Truckee Tahoe Snapshot D data for Saxon Creek to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 2 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for pH. The objective for this pollutant requires background information that is currently unavailable, and therefore an assessment of water quality thresholds could not be made.
Data Reference: Field, WQ from the Truckee Tahoe Snapshot Day for the 2026 Integrated Report in Region 6
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Lahontan Basin Plan's regionwide objective for pH states: 'In fresh waters with designated beneficial uses of COLD or WARM, changes in normal ambient pH levels shall not exceed 0.5 pH units. For all other waters of the region, the pH shall not be depressed below 6.5 nor raised above 8.5 units. The Regional Board recognizes that some waters of the Region may have natural pH levels outside of the 6.5 to 8.5 range. Compliance with the pH objective for these waters will be determined on a case-by-case basis.'
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site: SLT-SAXN-01 (Saxon Creek at Fountain Pl. Rd.).
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2002-05-04 and 2010-05-22
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Tahoe Truckee Snapshot QAPP
QAPP Information Reference(s): Lahontan Water Board - TahoeTruckeeSnapshotQAPP - League to Save Lake Tahoe Truckee Tahoe Snapshot D - 402634
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 162569, pH
Region 6     
Saxon Creek
 
LOE ID: 339773
 
Pollutant: pH
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Municipal & Domestic Supply
 
Number of Samples: 0
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed TRPA Tahoe Ambient Monitoring data for Saxon Creek to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 1 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for pH. The objective for this pollutant requires background information that is currently unavailable, and therefore an assessment of water quality thresholds could not be made.
Data Reference: Benthic, Field, Habitat from the Tahoe Regional Planning Authority for the 2026 Integrated Report in Region 6
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Lahontan Basin Plan's regionwide objective for pH states: 'In fresh waters with designated beneficial uses of COLD or WARM, changes in normal ambient pH levels shall not exceed 0.5 pH units. For all other waters of the region, the pH shall not be depressed below 6.5 nor raised above 8.5 units. The Regional Board recognizes that some waters of the Region may have natural pH levels outside of the 6.5 to 8.5 range. Compliance with the pH objective for these waters will be determined on a case-by-case basis.'
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site: 634S18373 (634S18373 Saxon Creek Status 2018).
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2018-10-04 and 2018-10-04
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Generic SWAMP QAPrP
QAPP Information Reference(s): Generic SWAMP QAPrP
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 162569, pH
Region 6     
Saxon Creek
 
LOE ID: 340035
 
Pollutant: pH
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 0
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed TRPA Tahoe Ambient Monitoring data for Saxon Creek to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 1 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for pH. The objective for this pollutant requires background information that is currently unavailable, and therefore an assessment of water quality thresholds could not be made.
Data Reference: Benthic, Field, Habitat from the Tahoe Regional Planning Authority for the 2026 Integrated Report in Region 6
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Lahontan Basin Plan's regionwide objective for pH states: 'In fresh waters with designated beneficial uses of COLD or WARM, changes in normal ambient pH levels shall not exceed 0.5 pH units. For all other waters of the region, the pH shall not be depressed below 6.5 nor raised above 8.5 units. The Regional Board recognizes that some waters of the Region may have natural pH levels outside of the 6.5 to 8.5 range. Compliance with the pH objective for these waters will be determined on a case-by-case basis.'
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site: 634S17329 (634S17329 Saxon Creek Status 2017).
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2017-09-11 and 2017-09-11
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Generic SWAMP QAPrP
QAPP Information Reference(s): Generic SWAMP QAPrP
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 162569, pH
Region 6     
Saxon Creek
 
LOE ID: 339686
 
Pollutant: pH
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 0
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed SWAMP Reference Condition Management Plan data for Saxon Creek to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 1 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for pH. The objective for this pollutant requires background information that is currently unavailable, and therefore an assessment of water quality thresholds could not be made.
Data Reference: Benthic, Field, Habitat, WQ from the Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program for the 2026 Integrated Report in Region 6
 
SWAMP Data: SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Lahontan Basin Plan's regionwide objective for pH states: 'In fresh waters with designated beneficial uses of COLD or WARM, changes in normal ambient pH levels shall not exceed 0.5 pH units. For all other waters of the region, the pH shall not be depressed below 6.5 nor raised above 8.5 units. The Regional Board recognizes that some waters of the Region may have natural pH levels outside of the 6.5 to 8.5 range. Compliance with the pH objective for these waters will be determined on a case-by-case basis.'
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site: 634SAX121 (Saxon Creek ~2.1mi above Trout Cr.).
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2018-08-22 and 2018-08-22
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Generic SWAMP QAPrP
QAPP Information Reference(s): Generic SWAMP QAPrP
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 162569, pH
Region 6     
Saxon Creek
 
LOE ID: 339917
 
Pollutant: pH
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 0
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed TRPA Tahoe Ambient Monitoring data for Saxon Creek to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 5 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for pH. The objective for this pollutant requires background information that is currently unavailable, and therefore an assessment of water quality thresholds could not be made.
Data Reference: Benthic, Field, Habitat from the Tahoe Regional Planning Authority for the 2026 Integrated Report in Region 6
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Lahontan Basin Plan's regionwide objective for pH states: 'In fresh waters with designated beneficial uses of COLD or WARM, changes in normal ambient pH levels shall not exceed 0.5 pH units. For all other waters of the region, the pH shall not be depressed below 6.5 nor raised above 8.5 units. The Regional Board recognizes that some waters of the Region may have natural pH levels outside of the 6.5 to 8.5 range. Compliance with the pH objective for these waters will be determined on a case-by-case basis.'
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site: 634SAX0FS (US Forest Service site Saxon Creek).
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2013-08-26 and 2018-09-27
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Generic SWAMP QAPrP
QAPP Information Reference(s): Generic SWAMP QAPrP
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 162569, pH
Region 6     
Saxon Creek
 
LOE ID: 340157
 
Pollutant: pH
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 0
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed TRPA Tahoe Ambient Monitoring data for Saxon Creek to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 1 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for pH. The objective for this pollutant requires background information that is currently unavailable, and therefore an assessment of water quality thresholds could not be made.
Data Reference: Benthic, Field, Habitat from the Tahoe Regional Planning Authority for the 2026 Integrated Report in Region 6
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Lahontan Basin Plan's regionwide objective for pH states: 'In fresh waters with designated beneficial uses of COLD or WARM, changes in normal ambient pH levels shall not exceed 0.5 pH units. For all other waters of the region, the pH shall not be depressed below 6.5 nor raised above 8.5 units. The Regional Board recognizes that some waters of the Region may have natural pH levels outside of the 6.5 to 8.5 range. Compliance with the pH objective for these waters will be determined on a case-by-case basis.'
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site: 634TPB109 (Saxon Creek 634010109 Trend Panel B).
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2017-09-20 and 2017-09-20
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Generic SWAMP QAPrP
QAPP Information Reference(s): Generic SWAMP QAPrP
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 162569, pH
Region 6     
Saxon Creek
 
LOE ID: 339808
 
Pollutant: pH
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 0
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed League to Save Lake Tahoe Truckee Tahoe Snapshot D data for Saxon Creek to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 2 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for pH. The objective for this pollutant requires background information that is currently unavailable, and therefore an assessment of water quality thresholds could not be made.
Data Reference: Field, WQ from the Truckee Tahoe Snapshot Day for the 2026 Integrated Report in Region 6
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Lahontan Basin Plan's regionwide objective for pH states: 'In fresh waters with designated beneficial uses of COLD or WARM, changes in normal ambient pH levels shall not exceed 0.5 pH units. For all other waters of the region, the pH shall not be depressed below 6.5 nor raised above 8.5 units. The Regional Board recognizes that some waters of the Region may have natural pH levels outside of the 6.5 to 8.5 range. Compliance with the pH objective for these waters will be determined on a case-by-case basis.'
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site: SLT-SAXN-01 (Saxon Creek at Fountain Pl. Rd.).
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2002-05-04 and 2010-05-22
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Tahoe Truckee Snapshot QAPP
QAPP Information Reference(s): Lahontan Water Board - TahoeTruckeeSnapshotQAPP - League to Save Lake Tahoe Truckee Tahoe Snapshot D - 402634
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 162569, pH
Region 6     
Saxon Creek
 
LOE ID: 340015
 
Pollutant: pH
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 0
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed TRPA Tahoe Ambient Monitoring data for Saxon Creek to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 1 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for pH. The objective for this pollutant requires background information that is currently unavailable, and therefore an assessment of water quality thresholds could not be made.
Data Reference: Benthic, Field, Habitat from the Tahoe Regional Planning Authority for the 2026 Integrated Report in Region 6
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Lahontan Basin Plan's regionwide objective for pH states: 'In fresh waters with designated beneficial uses of COLD or WARM, changes in normal ambient pH levels shall not exceed 0.5 pH units. For all other waters of the region, the pH shall not be depressed below 6.5 nor raised above 8.5 units. The Regional Board recognizes that some waters of the Region may have natural pH levels outside of the 6.5 to 8.5 range. Compliance with the pH objective for these waters will be determined on a case-by-case basis.'
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site: 634S18373 (634S18373 Saxon Creek Status 2018).
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2018-10-04 and 2018-10-04
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Generic SWAMP QAPrP
QAPP Information Reference(s): Generic SWAMP QAPrP
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 162569, pH
Region 6     
Saxon Creek
 
LOE ID: 339923
 
Pollutant: pH
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 0
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed League to Save Lake Tahoe Truckee Tahoe Snapshot D data for Saxon Creek to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 5 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for pH. The objective for this pollutant requires background information that is currently unavailable, and therefore an assessment of water quality thresholds could not be made.
Data Reference: Field, WQ from the Truckee Tahoe Snapshot Day for the 2026 Integrated Report in Region 6
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Lahontan Basin Plan's regionwide objective for pH states: 'In fresh waters with designated beneficial uses of COLD or WARM, changes in normal ambient pH levels shall not exceed 0.5 pH units. For all other waters of the region, the pH shall not be depressed below 6.5 nor raised above 8.5 units. The Regional Board recognizes that some waters of the Region may have natural pH levels outside of the 6.5 to 8.5 range. Compliance with the pH objective for these waters will be determined on a case-by-case basis.'
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site: SLT-SAXN-00 (Saxon Creek upstream of Trout Creek Confluence).
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2003-05-10 and 2009-05-16
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Tahoe Truckee Snapshot QAPP
QAPP Information Reference(s): Lahontan Water Board - TahoeTruckeeSnapshotQAPP - League to Save Lake Tahoe Truckee Tahoe Snapshot D - 402634
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 162569, pH
Region 6     
Saxon Creek
 
LOE ID: 129606
 
Pollutant: pH
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 0
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: 0 of 0 samples exceeded the water quality standard for pH. Although pH data does exist for this waterbody, the objective for this pollutant requires background information that is currently unavailable, and therefore an assessment of water quality standards could not be made.
Data Reference: Water Quality Assessment Data for the 2018 solicitation cycle submitted through CEDEN for the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency (TRPA) Tahoe Ambient Monitoring program.
 
SWAMP Data: SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Lahontan Basin Plan's regionwide objective for pH states: \In fresh waters with designated beneficial uses of COLD or WARM, changes in normal ambient pH levels shall not exceed 0.5 pH units. For all other waters of the region, the pH shall not be depressed below 6.5 nor raised above 8.5 units. The Regional Board recognizes that some waters of the Region may have natural pH levels outside of the 6.5 to 8.5 range. Compliance with the pH objective for these waters will be determined on a case-by-case basis.\""
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site(s) (634S14253)
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2014-09-05 and 2014-09-05
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Quality Assurance Program Plan and Standard Operating Procedures for SWAMP program
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Program Plans, Quality Assurance Project Plans, and Standard Operating Procedures for the SWAMP program
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 162569, pH
Region 6     
Saxon Creek
 
LOE ID: 129709
 
Pollutant: pH
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 0
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: 0 of 0 samples exceeded the water quality standard for pH. Although pH data does exist for this waterbody, the objective for this pollutant requires background information that is currently unavailable, and therefore an assessment of water quality standards could not be made.
Data Reference: Water Quality Assessment Data for the 2018 solicitation cycle submitted through CEDEN for the SWAMP Perennial Stream Surveys.
 
SWAMP Data: SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Lahontan Basin Plan's regionwide objective for pH states: \In fresh waters with designated beneficial uses of COLD or WARM, changes in normal ambient pH levels shall not exceed 0.5 pH units. For all other waters of the region, the pH shall not be depressed below 6.5 nor raised above 8.5 units. The Regional Board recognizes that some waters of the Region may have natural pH levels outside of the 6.5 to 8.5 range. Compliance with the pH objective for these waters will be determined on a case-by-case basis.\""
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site(s) (634PS0126)
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2013-08-28 and 2013-08-28
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Quality Assurance Program Plan and Standard Operating Procedures for SWAMP program
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Program Plans, Quality Assurance Project Plans, and Standard Operating Procedures for the SWAMP program
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 162569, pH
Region 6     
Saxon Creek
 
LOE ID: 129778
 
Pollutant: pH
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Municipal & Domestic Supply
 
Number of Samples: 0
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: 0 of 0 samples exceeded the water quality standard for pH. Although pH data does exist for this waterbody, the objective for this pollutant requires background information that is currently unavailable, and therefore an assessment of water quality standards could not be made.
Data Reference: Water Quality Assessment Data for the 2018 solicitation cycle submitted through CEDEN for the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency (TRPA) Tahoe Ambient Monitoring program.
 
SWAMP Data: SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Lahontan Basin Plan's regionwide objective for pH states: \In fresh waters with designated beneficial uses of COLD or WARM, changes in normal ambient pH levels shall not exceed 0.5 pH units. For all other waters of the region, the pH shall not be depressed below 6.5 nor raised above 8.5 units. The Regional Board recognizes that some waters of the Region may have natural pH levels outside of the 6.5 to 8.5 range. Compliance with the pH objective for these waters will be determined on a case-by-case basis.\""
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site(s) (634S14253)
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2014-09-05 and 2014-09-05
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Quality Assurance Program Plan and Standard Operating Procedures for SWAMP program
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Program Plans, Quality Assurance Project Plans, and Standard Operating Procedures for the SWAMP program
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 162569, pH
Region 6     
Saxon Creek
 
LOE ID: 129574
 
Pollutant: pH
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Municipal & Domestic Supply
 
Number of Samples: 0
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: 0 of 0 samples exceeded the water quality standard for pH. Although pH data does exist for this waterbody, the objective for this pollutant requires background information that is currently unavailable, and therefore an assessment of water quality standards could not be made.
Data Reference: Water Quality Assessment Data for the 2018 solicitation cycle submitted through CEDEN for the SWAMP Perennial Stream Surveys.
 
SWAMP Data: SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Lahontan Basin Plan's regionwide objective for pH states: \In fresh waters with designated beneficial uses of COLD or WARM, changes in normal ambient pH levels shall not exceed 0.5 pH units. For all other waters of the region, the pH shall not be depressed below 6.5 nor raised above 8.5 units. The Regional Board recognizes that some waters of the Region may have natural pH levels outside of the 6.5 to 8.5 range. Compliance with the pH objective for these waters will be determined on a case-by-case basis.\""
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site(s) (634PS0126)
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2013-08-28 and 2013-08-28
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Quality Assurance Program Plan and Standard Operating Procedures for SWAMP program
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Program Plans, Quality Assurance Project Plans, and Standard Operating Procedures for the SWAMP program
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 162569, pH
Region 6     
Saxon Creek
 
LOE ID: 340036
 
Pollutant: pH
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Municipal & Domestic Supply
 
Number of Samples: 0
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed TRPA Tahoe Ambient Monitoring data for Saxon Creek to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 1 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for pH. The objective for this pollutant requires background information that is currently unavailable, and therefore an assessment of water quality thresholds could not be made.
Data Reference: Benthic, Field, Habitat from the Tahoe Regional Planning Authority for the 2026 Integrated Report in Region 6
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Lahontan Basin Plan's regionwide objective for pH states: 'In fresh waters with designated beneficial uses of COLD or WARM, changes in normal ambient pH levels shall not exceed 0.5 pH units. For all other waters of the region, the pH shall not be depressed below 6.5 nor raised above 8.5 units. The Regional Board recognizes that some waters of the Region may have natural pH levels outside of the 6.5 to 8.5 range. Compliance with the pH objective for these waters will be determined on a case-by-case basis.'
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site: 634S17329 (634S17329 Saxon Creek Status 2017).
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2017-09-11 and 2017-09-11
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Generic SWAMP QAPrP
QAPP Information Reference(s): Generic SWAMP QAPrP
 
 
DECISION ID
170360
Region 6     
Saxon Creek
 
Pollutant: Nitrogen
Final Listing Decision: List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: New Decision
Revision Status Revised
Sources: A Source Unknown
TMDL Priority: Low
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: This pollutant is being considered for placement on the CWA section 303(d) List under section 3.1 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.1 a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status.

Three lines of evidence are available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. Three of the 3 samples exceed the objective.

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

This conclusion is based on the staff findings that:
1. The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy.
2. The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy.
3. Three of the 3 samples exceed the objective, and this exceeds the allowable frequency listed in Table 3.1 of the Listing Policy.
4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.
 
Regional Board Decision Recommendation: After review of the available data and information, RWQCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should be placed on the section 303(d) list because applicable water quality standards are exceeded and a pollutant contributes to or causes the problem.
 
State Board Review of Regional Board Conclusion and Recommendation:
 
State Board Decision Recommendation:
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 170360, Nitrogen
Region 6     
Saxon Creek
 
LOE ID: 347810
 
Pollutant: Total Nitrogen as N
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Not Recorded
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 1
Number of Exceedances: 1
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed League to Save Lake Tahoe Truckee Tahoe Snapshot D data to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows:
1 of 1 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for Nitrogen, Total
Data Reference: Field, WQ from the Truckee Tahoe Snapshot Day for the 2026 Integrated Report in Region 6
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Basin Plan objective for Nitrogen, Total in this water body is 0.19 (mg/L), (as a Mean).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site: Saxon Creek at Fountain Pl. Rd. (SLT-SAXN-01)
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2010-05-22 and 2010-05-22
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Tahoe Truckee Snapshot QAPP
QAPP Information Reference(s): Lahontan Water Board - TahoeTruckeeSnapshotQAPP - League to Save Lake Tahoe Truckee Tahoe Snapshot D - 402634
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 170360, Nitrogen
Region 6     
Saxon Creek
 
LOE ID: 347800
 
Pollutant: Total Nitrogen as N
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 1
Number of Exceedances: 1
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed SWAMP Reference Condition Management Plan data to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows:
1 of 1 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for Nitrogen, Total
Data Reference: Benthic, Field, Habitat, WQ from the Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program for the 2026 Integrated Report in Region 6
 
SWAMP Data: SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Basin Plan objective for Nitrogen, Total in this water body is 0.19 (mg/L), (as a Mean).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site: Saxon Creek ~2.1mi above Trout Cr. (634SAX121)
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2018-08-22 and 2018-08-22
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Generic SWAMP QAPrP
QAPP Information Reference(s): Generic SWAMP QAPrP
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 170360, Nitrogen
Region 6     
Saxon Creek
 
LOE ID: 347820
 
Pollutant: Total Nitrogen as N
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Not Recorded
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 1
Number of Exceedances: 1
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed League to Save Lake Tahoe Truckee Tahoe Snapshot D data to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows:
1 of 1 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for Nitrogen, Total
Data Reference: Field, WQ from the Truckee Tahoe Snapshot Day for the 2026 Integrated Report in Region 6
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Basin Plan objective for Nitrogen, Total in this water body is 0.19 (mg/L), (as a Mean).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site: Saxon Creek upstream of Trout Creek Confluence (SLT-SAXN-00)
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2009-05-16 and 2009-05-16
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Tahoe Truckee Snapshot QAPP
QAPP Information Reference(s): Lahontan Water Board - TahoeTruckeeSnapshotQAPP - League to Save Lake Tahoe Truckee Tahoe Snapshot D - 402634
 
 
DECISION ID
162568
Region 6     
Saxon Creek
 
Pollutant: Oxygen, Dissolved
Final Listing Decision: List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)(2018)
Revision Status Revised
Sources: A Source Unknown
TMDL Priority: Low
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: This pollutant is being considered for placement on the CWA section 303(d) List under section 3.2 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.2 a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status.

Fifteen lines of evidence are available in the administrative record to assess this parameter: 10 which assess dissolved oxygen concentration data and 5 which assess dissolved oxygen percent saturation data. Zero of 19 samples are below the objective for minimum dissolved oxygen concentration. Seven of 8 samples are below the objective for minimum dissolved oxygen percent saturation.


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

This conclusion is based on the staff findings that:
1. The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy.
2. The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy.
3. Seven of 8 samples are below the objective for minimum dissolved oxygen percent saturation,
and this exceeds the allowable frequency listed in Table 3.2 of the Listing Policy.
4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.
 
Regional Board Decision Recommendation: After review of the available data and information, RWQCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should be placed on the section 303(d) list because applicable water quality standards are exceeded and a pollutant contributes to or causes the problem.
 
State Board Review of Regional Board Conclusion and Recommendation:
 
State Board Decision Recommendation:
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 162568, Oxygen, Dissolved
Region 6     
Saxon Creek
 
LOE ID: 339383
 
Pollutant: Oxygen, Dissolved
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 1
Number of Exceedances: 1
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed TRPA Tahoe Ambient Monitoring data for Saxon Creek to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 1 of 1 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for Oxygen, Saturation.
Data Reference: Benthic, Field, Habitat from the Tahoe Regional Planning Authority for the 2026 Integrated Report in Region 6
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region's water quality objective states that the dissolved oxygen concentration shall not be less than 80 percent of saturation.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site: 634REFSAX (Saxon Creek Reference).
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2017-10-10 and 2017-10-10
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Generic SWAMP QAPrP
QAPP Information Reference(s): Generic SWAMP QAPrP
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 162568, Oxygen, Dissolved
Region 6     
Saxon Creek
 
LOE ID: 339475
 
Pollutant: Oxygen, Dissolved
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 1
Number of Exceedances: 1
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed TRPA Tahoe Ambient Monitoring data for Saxon Creek to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 1 of 1 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for Oxygen, Saturation.
Data Reference: Benthic, Field, Habitat from the Tahoe Regional Planning Authority for the 2026 Integrated Report in Region 6
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region's water quality objective states that the dissolved oxygen concentration shall not be less than 80 percent of saturation.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site: 634S18373 (634S18373 Saxon Creek Status 2018).
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2018-10-04 and 2018-10-04
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Generic SWAMP QAPrP
QAPP Information Reference(s): Generic SWAMP QAPrP
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 162568, Oxygen, Dissolved
Region 6     
Saxon Creek
 
LOE ID: 339490
 
Pollutant: Oxygen, Dissolved
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 4
Number of Exceedances: 3
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed TRPA Tahoe Ambient Monitoring data for Saxon Creek to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 3 of 4 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for Oxygen, Saturation.
Data Reference: Benthic, Field, Habitat from the Tahoe Regional Planning Authority for the 2026 Integrated Report in Region 6
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region's water quality objective states that the dissolved oxygen concentration shall not be less than 80 percent of saturation.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site: 634SAX0FS (US Forest Service site Saxon Creek).
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2015-08-31 and 2018-09-27
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Generic SWAMP QAPrP
QAPP Information Reference(s): Generic SWAMP QAPrP
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 162568, Oxygen, Dissolved
Region 6     
Saxon Creek
 
LOE ID: 339412
 
Pollutant: Oxygen, Dissolved
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 1
Number of Exceedances: 1
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed TRPA Tahoe Ambient Monitoring data for Saxon Creek to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 1 of 1 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for Oxygen, Saturation.
Data Reference: Benthic, Field, Habitat from the Tahoe Regional Planning Authority for the 2026 Integrated Report in Region 6
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region's water quality objective states that the dissolved oxygen concentration shall not be less than 80 percent of saturation.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site: 634TPB109 (Saxon Creek 634010109 Trend Panel B).
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2017-09-20 and 2017-09-20
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Generic SWAMP QAPrP
QAPP Information Reference(s): Generic SWAMP QAPrP
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 162568, Oxygen, Dissolved
Region 6     
Saxon Creek
 
LOE ID: 339369
 
Pollutant: Oxygen, Dissolved
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 1
Number of Exceedances: 1
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed TRPA Tahoe Ambient Monitoring data for Saxon Creek to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 1 of 1 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for Oxygen, Saturation.
Data Reference: Benthic, Field, Habitat from the Tahoe Regional Planning Authority for the 2026 Integrated Report in Region 6
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region's water quality objective states that the dissolved oxygen concentration shall not be less than 80 percent of saturation.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site: 634S17329 (634S17329 Saxon Creek Status 2017).
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2017-09-11 and 2017-09-11
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Generic SWAMP QAPrP
QAPP Information Reference(s): Generic SWAMP QAPrP
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 162568, Oxygen, Dissolved
Region 6     
Saxon Creek
 
LOE ID: 339142
 
Pollutant: Oxygen, Dissolved
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: Water Board staff assessed League to Save Lake Tahoe Truckee Tahoe Snapshot D data for Saxon Creek to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 1 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for Oxygen, Dissolved.
Data Reference: Field, WQ from the Truckee Tahoe Snapshot Day for the 2026 Integrated Report in Region 6
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: For waters with the beneficial uses of COLD, COLD with SPWN, WARM, and WARM with SPWN, the minimum dissolved oxygen concentration shall not be less than that specified in Table 3-6. (Water Quality Control Plan, Lahontan Region)
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site: SLT-SAXN-01 (Saxon Creek at Fountain Pl. Rd.).
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2010-05-22 and 2010-05-22
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Tahoe Truckee Snapshot QAPP
QAPP Information Reference(s): Lahontan Water Board - TahoeTruckeeSnapshotQAPP - League to Save Lake Tahoe Truckee Tahoe Snapshot D - 402634
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 162568, Oxygen, Dissolved
Region 6     
Saxon Creek
 
LOE ID: 339286
 
Pollutant: Oxygen, Dissolved
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: Water Board staff assessed TRPA Tahoe Ambient Monitoring data for Saxon Creek to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 1 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for Oxygen, Dissolved.
Data Reference: Benthic, Field, Habitat from the Tahoe Regional Planning Authority for the 2026 Integrated Report in Region 6
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: For waters with the beneficial uses of COLD, COLD with SPWN, WARM, and WARM with SPWN, the minimum dissolved oxygen concentration shall not be less than that specified in Table 3-6. (Water Quality Control Plan, Lahontan Region)
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site: 634S17329 (634S17329 Saxon Creek Status 2017).
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2017-09-11 and 2017-09-11
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Generic SWAMP QAPrP
QAPP Information Reference(s): Generic SWAMP QAPrP
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 162568, Oxygen, Dissolved
Region 6     
Saxon Creek
 
LOE ID: 129986
 
Pollutant: Oxygen, Dissolved
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 1
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed SWAMP Perennial Stream Surveys data for Saxon Creek to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 1 samples exceeded the water quality standard for Oxygen, Dissolved.
Data Reference: Water Quality Assessment Data for the 2018 solicitation cycle submitted through CEDEN for the SWAMP Perennial Stream Surveys.
 
SWAMP Data: SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: For waters with the beneficial uses of COLD, COLD with SPWN, WARM, and WARM with SPWN, the minimum dissolved oxygen concentration shall not be less than that specified in Table 3-6. (Water Quality Control Plan, Lahontan Region)
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site(s) (634PS0126)
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2013-08-28 and 2013-08-28
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Quality Assurance Program Plan and Standard Operating Procedures for SWAMP program
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Program Plans, Quality Assurance Project Plans, and Standard Operating Procedures for the SWAMP program
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 162568, Oxygen, Dissolved
Region 6     
Saxon Creek
 
LOE ID: 130029
 
Pollutant: Oxygen, Dissolved
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 1
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed TRPA Tahoe Ambient Monitoring data for Saxon Creek to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 1 samples exceeded the water quality standard for Oxygen, Dissolved.
Data Reference: Water Quality Assessment Data for the 2018 solicitation cycle submitted through CEDEN for the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency (TRPA) Tahoe Ambient Monitoring program.
 
SWAMP Data: SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: For waters with the beneficial uses of COLD, COLD with SPWN, WARM, and WARM with SPWN, the minimum dissolved oxygen concentration shall not be less than that specified in Table 3-6. (Water Quality Control Plan, Lahontan Region)
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site(s) (634S14253)
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2014-09-05 and 2014-09-05
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Quality Assurance Program Plan and Standard Operating Procedures for SWAMP program
QAPP Information Reference(s): Quality Assurance Program Plans, Quality Assurance Project Plans, and Standard Operating Procedures for the SWAMP program
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 162568, Oxygen, Dissolved
Region 6     
Saxon Creek
 
LOE ID: 339129
 
Pollutant: Oxygen, Dissolved
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
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: Water Board staff assessed TRPA Tahoe Ambient Monitoring data for Saxon Creek to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 6 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for Oxygen, Dissolved.
Data Reference: Benthic, Field, Habitat from the Tahoe Regional Planning Authority for the 2026 Integrated Report in Region 6
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: For waters with the beneficial uses of COLD, COLD with SPWN, WARM, and WARM with SPWN, the minimum dissolved oxygen concentration shall not be less than that specified in Table 3-6. (Water Quality Control Plan, Lahontan Region)
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site: 634SAX0FS (US Forest Service site Saxon Creek).
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2013-08-26 and 2018-09-27
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Generic SWAMP QAPrP
QAPP Information Reference(s): Generic SWAMP QAPrP
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 162568, Oxygen, Dissolved
Region 6     
Saxon Creek
 
LOE ID: 339263
 
Pollutant: Oxygen, Dissolved
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: Water Board staff assessed SWAMP Reference Condition Management Plan data for Saxon Creek to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 1 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for Oxygen, Dissolved.
Data Reference: Benthic, Field, Habitat, WQ from the Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program for the 2026 Integrated Report in Region 6
 
SWAMP Data: SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: For waters with the beneficial uses of COLD, COLD with SPWN, WARM, and WARM with SPWN, the minimum dissolved oxygen concentration shall not be less than that specified in Table 3-6. (Water Quality Control Plan, Lahontan Region)
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site: 634SAX121 (Saxon Creek ~2.1mi above Trout Cr.).
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2018-08-22 and 2018-08-22
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Generic SWAMP QAPrP
QAPP Information Reference(s): Generic SWAMP QAPrP
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 162568, Oxygen, Dissolved
Region 6     
Saxon Creek
 
LOE ID: 339298
 
Pollutant: Oxygen, Dissolved
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: Water Board staff assessed TRPA Tahoe Ambient Monitoring data for Saxon Creek to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 1 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for Oxygen, Dissolved.
Data Reference: Benthic, Field, Habitat from the Tahoe Regional Planning Authority for the 2026 Integrated Report in Region 6
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: For waters with the beneficial uses of COLD, COLD with SPWN, WARM, and WARM with SPWN, the minimum dissolved oxygen concentration shall not be less than that specified in Table 3-6. (Water Quality Control Plan, Lahontan Region)
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site: 634TPB109 (Saxon Creek 634010109 Trend Panel B).
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2017-09-20 and 2017-09-20
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Generic SWAMP QAPrP
QAPP Information Reference(s): Generic SWAMP QAPrP
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 162568, Oxygen, Dissolved
Region 6     
Saxon Creek
 
LOE ID: 339325
 
Pollutant: Oxygen, Dissolved
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 5
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed League to Save Lake Tahoe Truckee Tahoe Snapshot D data for Saxon Creek to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 5 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for Oxygen, Dissolved.
Data Reference: Field, WQ from the Truckee Tahoe Snapshot Day for the 2026 Integrated Report in Region 6
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: For waters with the beneficial uses of COLD, COLD with SPWN, WARM, and WARM with SPWN, the minimum dissolved oxygen concentration shall not be less than that specified in Table 3-6. (Water Quality Control Plan, Lahontan Region)
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site: SLT-SAXN-00 (Saxon Creek upstream of Trout Creek Confluence).
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2003-05-10 and 2009-05-16
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Tahoe Truckee Snapshot QAPP
QAPP Information Reference(s): Lahontan Water Board - TahoeTruckeeSnapshotQAPP - League to Save Lake Tahoe Truckee Tahoe Snapshot D - 402634
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 162568, Oxygen, Dissolved
Region 6     
Saxon Creek
 
LOE ID: 339190
 
Pollutant: Oxygen, Dissolved
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: Water Board staff assessed TRPA Tahoe Ambient Monitoring data for Saxon Creek to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 1 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for Oxygen, Dissolved.
Data Reference: Benthic, Field, Habitat from the Tahoe Regional Planning Authority for the 2026 Integrated Report in Region 6
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: For waters with the beneficial uses of COLD, COLD with SPWN, WARM, and WARM with SPWN, the minimum dissolved oxygen concentration shall not be less than that specified in Table 3-6. (Water Quality Control Plan, Lahontan Region)
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site: 634REFSAX (Saxon Creek Reference).
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2017-10-10 and 2017-10-10
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Generic SWAMP QAPrP
QAPP Information Reference(s): Generic SWAMP QAPrP
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 162568, Oxygen, Dissolved
Region 6     
Saxon Creek
 
LOE ID: 339187
 
Pollutant: Oxygen, Dissolved
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: Water Board staff assessed TRPA Tahoe Ambient Monitoring data for Saxon Creek to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 1 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for Oxygen, Dissolved.
Data Reference: Benthic, Field, Habitat from the Tahoe Regional Planning Authority for the 2026 Integrated Report in Region 6
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: For waters with the beneficial uses of COLD, COLD with SPWN, WARM, and WARM with SPWN, the minimum dissolved oxygen concentration shall not be less than that specified in Table 3-6. (Water Quality Control Plan, Lahontan Region)
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site: 634S18373 (634S18373 Saxon Creek Status 2018).
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2018-10-04 and 2018-10-04
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Generic SWAMP QAPrP
QAPP Information Reference(s): Generic SWAMP QAPrP
 
 
DECISION ID
168999
Region 6     
Saxon Creek
 
Pollutant: Phosphorus
Final Listing Decision: List on 303(d) list (being addressed by USEPA approved TMDL)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: New Decision
Revision Status Original
Sources: A Source Unknown
TMDL Name: Lake Tahoe Nutrients/Sediment
TMDL Project Code: 198
Date TMDL Approved by USEPA: 08/22/2011
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: This pollutant is being considered for placement on the CWA section 303(d) List under section 3.1 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.1 a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status.

Three lines of evidence are available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. Four 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 in favor of placing this water segment-pollutant combination on the CWA section 303(d) List.

This conclusion is based on the staff findings that:
1. The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy.
2. The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy.
3. Four of the four samples exceed the water quality objective, and this exceeds the allowable frequency listed in Table 3.1 of the Listing Policy.
4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.
 
Regional Board Decision Recommendation: After review of the available data and information, RWQCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should be placed on the section 303(d) list because applicable water quality standards are exceeded and a pollutant contributes to or causes the problem.
 
State Board Review of Regional Board Conclusion and Recommendation:
 
State Board Decision Recommendation:
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 168999, Phosphorus
Region 6     
Saxon Creek
 
LOE ID: 347859
 
Pollutant: Phosphorus
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 1
Number of Exceedances: 1
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed SWAMP Reference Condition Management Plan data to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows:
1 of 1 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for Phosphorus as P
Data Reference: Benthic, Field, Habitat, WQ from the Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program for the 2026 Integrated Report in Region 6
 
SWAMP Data: SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Basin Plan objective for Phosphorus as P in this water body is 0.015 (mg/L), (as a Mean).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site: Saxon Creek ~2.1mi above Trout Cr. (634SAX121)
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2018-08-22 and 2018-08-22
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Generic SWAMP QAPrP
QAPP Information Reference(s): Generic SWAMP QAPrP
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 168999, Phosphorus
Region 6     
Saxon Creek
 
LOE ID: 347884
 
Pollutant: Phosphorus
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 2
Number of Exceedances: 2
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed League to Save Lake Tahoe Truckee Tahoe Snapshot D data to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows:
2 of 2 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for Phosphorus as P
Data Reference: Field, WQ from the Truckee Tahoe Snapshot Day for the 2026 Integrated Report in Region 6
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Basin Plan objective for Phosphorus as P in this water body is 0.015 (mg/L), (as a Mean).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site: Saxon Creek upstream of Trout Creek Confluence (SLT-SAXN-00)
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2008-05-10 and 2009-05-16
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Tahoe Truckee Snapshot QAPP
QAPP Information Reference(s): Lahontan Water Board - TahoeTruckeeSnapshotQAPP - League to Save Lake Tahoe Truckee Tahoe Snapshot D - 402634
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 168999, Phosphorus
Region 6     
Saxon Creek
 
LOE ID: 347887
 
Pollutant: Phosphorus
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 1
Number of Exceedances: 1
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed League to Save Lake Tahoe Truckee Tahoe Snapshot D data to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows:
1 of 1 samples exceeded the water quality threshold for Phosphorus as P
Data Reference: Field, WQ from the Truckee Tahoe Snapshot Day for the 2026 Integrated Report in Region 6
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Basin Plan objective for Phosphorus as P in this water body is 0.015 (mg/L), (as a Mean).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 1 monitoring site: Saxon Creek at Fountain Pl. Rd. (SLT-SAXN-01)
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected between the dates of 2010-05-22 and 2010-05-22
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Tahoe Truckee Snapshot QAPP
QAPP Information Reference(s): Lahontan Water Board - TahoeTruckeeSnapshotQAPP - League to Save Lake Tahoe Truckee Tahoe Snapshot D - 402634