Sonoma Creek Sediment TMDL

U.S. EPA approves the Sonoma Creek Watershed Sediment TMDL and Habitat Enhancement Plan

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has approved the Basin Plan amendment adopted by the Regional Water Board in December 2008, incorporating the TMDL and an implementation plan to achieve the sediment TMDL and related habitat enhancement goals. The State Water Board and the Office of Administrative Law have also approved the amendment. It is now fully approved and part of the Water Quality Control Plan for the San Francisco Bay Basin (Basin Plan), the master planning document for water quality in the Bay Area. Water Board staff is now focusing on implementing the TMDL and habitat enhancement. Current work includes developing a conditional waiver program for vineyard facilities (see below for more information) and facilitating stream restoration projects through our grant programs.

TMDL Implementation

Conditional Waiver Program for Vineyard Facilities in the Napa River and Sonoma Creek Watersheds

Water Board staff is developing a Conditional Waiver of Waste Discharge Requirements for Vineyard Facilities in the Napa River and Sonoma Creek Watersheds (Vineyard Waiver), in which many vineyard owners and/or operators would be required to enroll. Staff will solicit input from stakeholders during this waiver development process. The essential component of the Vineyard Waiver will be the vineyard owner/operator’s completion of a farm water quality plan (farm plan). A farm plan includes a comprehensive inventory and assessment of natural resources, agricultural lands, and management practices. The farm plan must address surface erosion, storm water runoff, sediment delivery from roads, pesticide use, nutrient management, and protection of stream areas.

Background:

Sonoma Creek exceeds water quality standards for sediment. The listing was prompted by declines in native fish populations. The Sonoma Creek Sediment TMDL addresses this water quality problem, identifies pollutant sources, and specifies actions to create solutions.

Sonoma Creek Sediment TMDL

TMDL Implementation

Background:

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