Draft California 2014 Integrated Report (303(d) List/305(b) Report)

Supporting Information

Regional Board 4 - Los Angeles Region

Water Body Name: San Gabriel River Reach 2 (Firestone to Whittier Narrows Dam
Water Body ID: CAR4051501019980917150749
Water Body Type: River & Stream
 
DECISION ID
33327
Region 4     
San Gabriel River Reach 2 (Firestone to Whittier Narrows Dam
 
Pollutant: Copper
Final Listing Decision: Delist from 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: Delist from 303(d) list (TMDL required list)(2012)
Revision Status Revised
Reason for Delisting: Applicable WQS attained; reason for recovery unspecified
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Staff Conclusion: This pollutant is being considered for removal from the CWA section 303(d) List under section 4.1 of the Listing Policy. Under this section a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status.

2 lines of evidence are available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant.
0 of the 51 samples exceeded the CRITERIA.
0 of the 72 samples exceeded the CRITERIA.

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

This conclusion is based on the staff findings that:
1. The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy.
2. The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy.
3. 0 of 51 and 0 of 72 samples exceeded the CRITERIA and this does not exceed the allowable frequency listed in Table 4.1 of the Listing Policy.
4. Pursuant to section 4.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.
 
Regional Board Staff Decision Recommendation: After review of the available data and information, RWQCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should be removed from the section 303(d) list because applicable water quality standards for the pollutant are not being exceeded.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 33327, Copper
Region 4     
San Gabriel River Reach 2 (Firestone to Whittier Narrows Dam
 
LOE ID: 2455
 
Pollutant: Copper
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 51
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Numeric data generated from 51 samples taken from 10/14/98 to 1/1/04, none of which exceed the hardness based CCC (LACDPW, 2004c).
Data Reference: Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: CTR Dissolved Copper Criterion for continuous concentration (CCC) in water for the protection of aquatic life is expressed as a function of the total hardness of the water body. The aquatic life criteria will vary depending of total hardness reported at the sampling site. The CCC for dissolved copper is the highest concentration to which aquatic life can be exposed for an extended period of time (four days) without deleterious effects. This criterion is linked and applicable for the protection of aquatic life Beneficial Uses.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: One (1) sampling station sampled from 10/14/98 to 1/1/04.
Temporal Representation: Samples taken during the wet and dry season from 10/14/98 to 1/1/04 at approximately one to two week intervals.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Evaluation of Analytes and QA/QC Specifications for Monitoring Program (Woodward-Clyde, 1996) Los Angeles County Department of Public Works.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 33327, Copper
Region 4     
San Gabriel River Reach 2 (Firestone to Whittier Narrows Dam
 
LOE ID: 87916
 
Pollutant: Copper
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 72
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: Fixed station physical/chemical (conventional plus toxic pollutants)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: None of the 72 samples exceeded the hardness adjusted criteria.
Data Reference: Data for Various Pollutants in Various Water Bodies in Sanitation Districts of Los Angeles County, 2005-2010.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Surface waters shall not contain concentrations of chemical constituents in amounts that adversely affect any designated beneficial use.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan Los Angeles Region R4 Basin Plan
 
Evaluation Guideline: California Toxics Rule (CTR) lists criterion continuous concentrations (4-day average) to protect aquatic life in freshwater. The criterion in freshwater is hardness dependent for each sample and varies based on the ambient hardness during sampling. Section (b)(1) in CTR contains the hardness dependent formula for the metals criterion. If no hardness data were available, a value of 100 mg/L was used.
Guideline Reference: Code of Federal Regulations 40 part 131.38 Establishment of numeric criteria for priority toxic pollutants for the State of California. 7/1/2011 Edition
 
Spatial Representation: Samples were collected from San Gabriel River Reach 2 (Firestone to Whittier Narrows Dam) from three sample stations: SG-R12, SJC-R2 and SG-R2.
Temporal Representation: Samples were collected monthly from June 2006 through May of 2010.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: The Biology Department of the San Jose Creek Water Quality Laboratory is responsible for collecting samples from receiving water stations along the San Gabriel River, Coyote Creek, San Jose Creek, Santa Clara River, and the Rio Hondo River. Data is collected for the Los Angeles Sanitation District NPDES permits. Some standard operating procedures for sampling were submitted, however no QA Project Plan was.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
 
DECISION ID
32705
Region 4     
San Gabriel River Reach 2 (Firestone to Whittier Narrows Dam
 
Pollutant: Zinc
Final Listing Decision: Delist from 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: Delist from 303(d) list (TMDL required list)(2012)
Revision Status Revised
Reason for Delisting: Applicable WQS attained; reason for recovery unspecified
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Staff Conclusion: This pollutant is being considered for removal from the CWA section 303(d) List under section 4.1 of the Listing Policy. Under this section a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status.

2 lines of evidence are available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant.
3 of the 58 samples exceeded the CRITERIA.
0 of the 42 samples exceeded the CRITERIA.

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

This conclusion is based on the staff findings that:
1. The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy.
2. The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy.
3. 3 of 58 and 0 of 42 samples exceeded the CRITERIA and this does not exceed the allowable frequency listed in Table 4.1 of the Listing Policy.
4. Pursuant to section 4.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.
 
Regional Board Staff Decision Recommendation: After review of the available data and information, RWQCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should be removed from the section 303(d) list because applicable water quality standards for the pollutant are not being exceeded.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 32705, Zinc
Region 4     
San Gabriel River Reach 2 (Firestone to Whittier Narrows Dam
 
LOE ID: 2458
 
Pollutant: Zinc
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 58
Number of Exceedances: 3
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Numeric data generated from 58 samples taken from 11/10/97 to 1/7/05 at one to two-week sampling interval. Three samples exceeded the dissolved zinc Continuous Criterion Concentration (CCC) (LARWQCB, 2006).
Data Reference: Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: CTR Dissolved Zinc Criterion for continuous concentration (CCC) in water for the protection of aquatic life is expressed as a function of the total hardness of the water body. The aquatic life criteria will vary depending on total hardness reported at the sampling site. The CCC for dissolved zinc is the highest concentration to which aquatic life can be exposed for an extended period of time (four days) without deleterious effects. This criterion is linked and applicable for the protection of aquatic life Beneficial Uses.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Site S14.
Temporal Representation: Samples collected between 11/10/97 and 1/7/05.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: San Gabriel River Metals TMDL monitoring.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 32705, Zinc
Region 4     
San Gabriel River Reach 2 (Firestone to Whittier Narrows Dam
 
LOE ID: 87836
 
Pollutant: Zinc
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 42
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: Fixed station physical/chemical (conventional plus toxic pollutants)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: None of the 42 samples exceeded the hardness adjusted criteria.
Data Reference: Data for Various Pollutants in Various Water Bodies in Sanitation Districts of Los Angeles County, 2005-2010.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Surface waters shall not contain concentrations of chemical constituents in amounts that adversely affect any designated beneficial use.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan Los Angeles Region R4 Basin Plan
 
Evaluation Guideline: California Toxics Rule (CTR) lists criterion continuous concentrations (4-day average) to protect aquatic life in freshwater. The criterion in freshwater is hardness dependent for each sample and varies based on the ambient hardness during sampling. Section (b)(1) in CTR contains the hardness dependent formula for the metals criterion. If no hardness data were available, a value of 100 mg/L was used.
Guideline Reference: Code of Federal Regulations 40 part 131.38 Establishment of numeric criteria for priority toxic pollutants for the State of California. 7/1/2011 Edition
 
Spatial Representation: Samples were collected from San Gabriel River Reach 2 (Firestone to Whittier Narrows Dam) from three sample stations: SG-R12, SJC-R2 and SG-R2.
Temporal Representation: Samples were collected monthly from June 2006 through May of 2010.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: The Biology Department of the San Jose Creek Water Quality Laboratory is responsible for collecting samples from receiving water stations along the San Gabriel River, Coyote Creek, San Jose Creek, Santa Clara River, and the Rio Hondo River. Data is collected for the Los Angeles Sanitation District NPDES permits. Some standard operating procedures for sampling were submitted, however no QA Project Plan was.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
 
DECISION ID
32640
Region 4     
San Gabriel River Reach 2 (Firestone to Whittier Narrows Dam
 
Pollutant: Indicator Bacteria
Final Listing Decision: Delist from 303(d) list (being addressed by USEPA approved TMDL)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: Do Not Delist from 303(d) list (TMDL required list)(2012)
Revision Status Revised
Reason for Delisting: Applicable WQS attained; due to change in WQS
TMDL Name: San Gabriel River Coliform (45)
TMDL Project Code: 391
Date TMDL Approved by USEPA: 06/14/2016
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Staff Conclusion: This pollutant is being considered for removal from the CWA section 303(d) List under section 4.3 of the Listing Policy. Under section 4.3 a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status.

3 lines of evidence are available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. However only the E.Coli line of evidence is applicable due to a change in water quality objectives.

2 of 64 samples exceeded the OBJECTIVE.

Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is sufficient justification for removing this water segment-pollutant combination from the CWA section 303(d) List. This conclusion is based on the staff findings that:
1. The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy.
2. The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy.
3. 2 of 64 samples exceeded the E.coli OBJECTIVE and this does not exceeds the allowable frequency listed in Table 4.2 of the Listing Policy.
4. Pursuant to section 4.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.
 
Regional Board Staff Decision Recommendation: After review of the available data and information, RWQCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should be removed from the section 303(d) list because applicable water quality standards for the pollutant are not being exceeded.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 32640, Indicator Bacteria
Region 4     
San Gabriel River Reach 2 (Firestone to Whittier Narrows Dam
 
LOE ID: 87917
 
Pollutant: Escherichia coli (E. coli)
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Water Contact Recreation
 
Number of Samples: 64
Number of Exceedances: 2
 
Data and Information Type: Not Specified
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Two of the 64 samples exceeded the E. coli objective.
Data Reference: Data for Various Pollutants in Various Water Bodies in Sanitation Districts of Los Angeles County, 2005-2010.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The E. coli density shall not exceed 235/100 ml. (Water Quality Control Plan for the Los Angeles Region).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan Los Angeles Region R4 Basin Plan
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference: Ambient Water Quality Criteria for Bacteria - 1986. EPA440/5-84-002
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at San Jose Creek Station RSW-005 (Station R-2)and San Jose Creek Station RSW-006 (Station R-12). Station LC-R3 was moved to Reach 1. mapping change requested.
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected once a month from June 2005 to May 2010.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: The samples were collected under the San Jose Creek Laboratory sample collection procedures. Dec 28, 2010.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 32640, Indicator Bacteria
Region 4     
San Gabriel River Reach 2 (Firestone to Whittier Narrows Dam
 
LOE ID: 25339
 
Pollutant: Indicator Bacteria
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Water Contact Recreation
 
Number of Samples: 20
Number of Exceedances: 13
 
Data and Information Type: Other Agencies/Organizations provided monitoring data
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: 13 of 20 samples exceeded the Basin Plan single sample water quality objectives for indicator bacteria in fresh water and one of one sample exceeded the Basin Plan geometric mean water quality objective. Water quality samples were taken and analyzed for nitrite-nitrogen in accordance with the Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) permit monitoring and testing parameters.
Data Reference: Monitoring Report (MS4 Data) - CI 6948 for order no. 01-182 NPDES No. CAS004001 Municipal Storm Water and Urban Runoff Discharges within the County of Los Angeles, and the Incorporated Cities therein, Except the City of Long Beach
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Basin Plan bacteria objectives state that to protect water contact recreation in fresh waters individual samples shall not exceed the following limits: fecal coliform density shall not exceed 400/100 ml; and E. coli density shall not exceed 235/100 ml. The bacteria objectives also establish that the geometric means of individual samples shall not exceed the following limits: the fecal coliform density shall not exceed 200/100 ml; and the E. coli density shall not exceed 126/100 ml, as a geometric mean. The bacteria objectives are found in Attachment A of Regional Board Resolution No. 2001-018.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan Los Angeles Region R4 Basin Plan
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The Los Angeles County Department of Public Works conducted sampling at the mass emission monitoring station S14 located downstream of the San Gabriel River Parkway (Lat: 34.0133815996, Long: -118.063082152).
Temporal Representation: Grab samples were taken approximately six times per year (four wet-weather events and two dry-weather events), from October 2003 through April 2007.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Data was collected in compliance with the sampling and monitoring procedures detailed in County of Los Angeles MS4 Permit (NPDES No. CAS004001) Monitoring and Reporting Program.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Monitoring and Reporting Program - CI 6948 for order no. 01-182 NPDES No. CAS004001 Municipal Storm Water and Urban Runoff Discharges within the County of Los Angeles, and the incorporated cities, except the City of Long Beach
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 32640, Indicator Bacteria
Region 4     
San Gabriel River Reach 2 (Firestone to Whittier Narrows Dam
 
LOE ID: 2460
 
Pollutant: Fecal Coliform
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Water Contact Recreation
 
Number of Samples: 16
Number of Exceedances: 16
 
Data and Information Type: PATHOGEN MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Sixteen out of 16 samples at this location exceeded the objective for fecal coliform (LACDPW, 2004c).

Summary of Results for the 2000-2001 Routine Monitoring at the San Gabriel River (Table B-5)
Data Reference: Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: "In waters designated for contact recreation (REC-1), the fecal coliform concentration shall not exceed a log mean of 200/100 ml"
From the LA Regional Water Quality Control Board's Basin Plan
Objective/Criterion Reference: Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The San Gabriel River Monitoring Station is located at an historic stream gage station (Stream Gage No. F263C-R), below San Gabriel River Parkway in Pico Rivera. At this location the upstream tributary area is 450 square miles. The San Gabriel River, at the gauging station, is a grouted rock-concrete stabilizer along the western levee and a natural section on the eastern side. Flow measurement and water sampling are conducted in the grouted rock area along the western levee of the river. The length of the concrete stabilizer is nearly 70 feet. The San Gabriel River sampling location has been an active stream gauging station since 1968.
Temporal Representation: Samples taken between 10/28/2000 and 4/30/2003
Environmental Conditions: Samples taken on 10/10/2002 and 4/30/2003 were 'DRY' samples. All others were 'WET'.
QAPP Information: Detailed QA/QC contained in this report.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
 
DECISION ID
32995
Region 4     
San Gabriel River Reach 2 (Firestone to Whittier Narrows Dam
 
Pollutant: Lead
Final Listing Decision: Do Not Delist from 303(d) list (being addressed with USEPA approved TMDL)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: List on 303(d) list (being addressed by USEPA approved TMDL)(2012)
Revision Status Revised
Sources: Nonpoint Source | Point Source
TMDL Name: San Gabriel River Metals (39)
TMDL Project Code: 385
Date TMDL Approved by USEPA: 03/27/2007
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Staff Conclusion: This pollutant is being considered for removal on the CWA section 303(d) List under sections 2.2 and 3.1 of the Listing Policy. Under 3.1 of the Policy, a minimum of one line of evidence is needed to assess listing status.

3 lines of evidence are available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant.

Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is sufficient justification against removing this water segment-pollutant combination from the CWA section 303(d) List. There is sufficient justification to place it in the Being Addressed portion of the CWA 303(d) List because a TMDL has been completed and approved by RWQCB and USEPA, and is expected to result in attainment of the standard.

This conclusion is based on the staff findings that:
1. The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy.
2. The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy.
3. 12 of 124 samples exceeded the GUIDELINE and these exceed the allowable frequency listed in Table 3.1 of the Listing Policy.
4. The San Gabriel River Metals was approved by USEPA on 03/27/2007.
5. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.
 
Regional Board Staff Decision Recommendation: After review of the available data and information, RWQCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should not be removed from the section 303(d) list because applicable water quality standards for the pollutant are being exceeded.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 32995, Lead
Region 4     
San Gabriel River Reach 2 (Firestone to Whittier Narrows Dam
 
LOE ID: 2459
 
Pollutant: Lead
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 58
Number of Exceedances: 5
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Numeric data generated from 58 samples taken from 11/10/97 to 1/7/05 at one to two-week sampling intervals. Five samples exceeded the dissolved lead continuous criterion concentration (CCC) (LARWQCB, 2006).
Data Reference: Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: CTR dissolved lead criterion for continuous concentration (CCC) in water for the protection of aquatic life is expressed as a function of the total hardness of the water body. The aquatic life criteria will vary depending on total hardness reported at the sampling site. The CCC for dissolved lead is the highest concentration to which aquatic life can be exposed for an extended period of time (four days) without deleterious effects. This criterion is linked and applicable for the protection of aquatic life Beneficial Uses.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Site S14.
Temporal Representation: Samples were collected between 11/10/97 and 1/7/05.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: San Gabriel River Metals TMDL monitoring.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 32995, Lead
Region 4     
San Gabriel River Reach 2 (Firestone to Whittier Narrows Dam
 
LOE ID: 28296
 
Pollutant: Lead
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
Aquatic Life Use: Preservation of Rare & Endangered Species | Wildlife Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 66
Number of Exceedances: 7
 
Data and Information Type: Fixed station physical/chemical (conventional plus toxic pollutants)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Seven of 66 samples exceeded the hardness dependent California Toxics Rule Criterion Continuous Concentration for lead and zero out 100 samples exceeded the hardness dependent Criterion Maximum Concentration. Water quality samples were taken and analyzed for lead in accordance with the Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) permit monitoring and testing parameters.
Data Reference: Lead 1995-2007 Monitoring Data (MS4 Data) for San Gabriel River Reach 2. Municipal Storm Water and Urban Runoff Discharges within the County of Los Angeles, and the Incorporated Cities therein, Except the City of Long Beach.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The California Toxics Rule lists Criterion Continuous Concentrations for lead to protect aquatic life in freshwater. The lead criterion in freshwater is hardness dependent for each sample and varies based on the on the ambient hardness during sampling. Section (b)(1) in CTR contains the hardness dependent formula for metals criteria.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Standards 2000. Establishment of numeric criteria for priority toxic pollutants for the State of California: Rules and regulations. Federal Register Vol. 65, No. 97. Washington, D.C.: Environmental Protection Agency
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The Los Angeles County Department of Public Works conducted sampling at the mass emission monitoring station S14 located downstream of the San Gabriel River Parkway (Lat: 34.0133815996, Long: -118.063082152).
Temporal Representation: Composite samples taken in wet- and dry-weather from October 1995 to April 2007.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Data was collected in compliance with the sampling and monitoring procedures detailed in County of Los Angeles MS4 Permit (NPDES No. CAS004001) Monitoring and Reporting Program.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Monitoring and Reporting Program - CI 6948 for order no. 01-182 NPDES No. CAS004001 Municipal Storm Water and Urban Runoff Discharges within the County of Los Angeles, and the incorporated cities, except the City of Long Beach
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 32995, Lead
Region 4     
San Gabriel River Reach 2 (Firestone to Whittier Narrows Dam
 
LOE ID: 28719
 
Pollutant: Lead
LOE Subgroup: Narrative Description Data
Matrix: Not Specified
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
Aquatic Life Use: Preservation of Rare & Endangered Species | Wildlife Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 0
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: Not Specified
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: A TMDL has been established for this water segment-pollutant combination. The San Gabriel River MetalsTMDL was established by USEPA on March 26, 2007.
Data Reference: Staff report and appendix establishing a TMDL for Metals in the San Gabriel River Watershed.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion:
Objective/Criterion Reference:
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation:
Temporal Representation:
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: QA information unavailable.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 32995, Lead
Region 4     
San Gabriel River Reach 2 (Firestone to Whittier Narrows Dam
 
LOE ID: 87814
 
Pollutant: Lead
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 72
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: Fixed station physical/chemical (conventional plus toxic pollutants)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: None of the 72 samples exceeded the hardness adjusted criteria.
Data Reference: Data for Various Pollutants in Various Water Bodies in Sanitation Districts of Los Angeles County, 2005-2010.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Surface waters shall not contain concentrations of chemical constituents in amounts that adversely affect any designated beneficial use.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan Los Angeles Region R4 Basin Plan
 
Evaluation Guideline: California Toxics Rule (CTR) lists criterion continuous concentrations (4-day average) to protect aquatic life in freshwater. The criterion in freshwater is hardness dependent for each sample and varies based on the ambient hardness during sampling. Section (b)(1) in CTR contains the hardness dependent formula for the metals criterion. If no hardness data were available, a value of 100 mg/L was used.
Guideline Reference: Code of Federal Regulations 40 part 131.38 Establishment of numeric criteria for priority toxic pollutants for the State of California. 7/1/2011 Edition
 
Spatial Representation: Samples were collected from San Gabriel River Reach 2 (Firestone to Whittier Narrows Dam) from three sample stations: SG-R12, SJC-R2 and SG-R2.
Temporal Representation: Samples were collected monthly from June 2006 through May of 2010.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: The Biology Department of the San Jose Creek Water Quality Laboratory is responsible for collecting samples from receiving water stations along the San Gabriel River, Coyote Creek, San Jose Creek, Santa Clara River, and the Rio Hondo River. Data is collected for the Los Angeles Sanitation District NPDES permits. Some standard operating procedures for sampling were submitted, however no QA Project Plan was.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
 
DECISION ID
32384
Region 4     
San Gabriel River Reach 2 (Firestone to Whittier Narrows Dam
 
Pollutant: Aluminum
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)(2012)
Revision Status Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Staff Conclusion: This pollutant is being considered for removal from the CWA section 303(d) List under section 4.1 of the Listing Policy. Under this section a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status.

2 lines of evidence are available in the administrative record to assess pollutant.
0 of the 0 samples exceed the CRITERION.
5 of the 27 samples exceed the CRITERION.

Pursuant to Section 304(a) of the Clean Water Act, U.S. EPA is intending to release updated National Recommended Water Quality Criteria for Aluminum (Al) in spring 2017. Therefore, the Los Angeles Water Board is not recommending listing waterbodies for Al in the current listing cycle and is planning to use the updated criteria in the 2022 listing cycle.
 
Regional Board Staff 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.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 32384, Aluminum
Region 4     
San Gabriel River Reach 2 (Firestone to Whittier Narrows Dam
 
LOE ID: 87905
 
Pollutant: Aluminum
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 27
Number of Exceedances: 5
 
Data and Information Type: Fixed station physical/chemical (conventional plus toxic pollutants)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Five of the 27 samples exceeded the criteria of 87 ug/L.
Data Reference: Data for Various Pollutants in Various Water Bodies in Sanitation Districts of Los Angeles County, 2005-2010.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Surface waters shall not contain concentrations of chemical constituents in amounts that adversely affect any designated beneficial use.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan Los Angeles Region R4 Basin Plan
 
Evaluation Guideline: National Recommended Water Quality Criteria Continuous Concentrations are intended protect aquatic organisms from chronic exposures (expressed as 4-day average concentration) in freshwater. The evaluation guideline for aluminum is 87 ug/L to protect warm freshwater habitat.
Guideline Reference: National Recommended Water Quality Criteria. United States Environmental Protection Agency. Office of Water. Office of Science and Technology
 
Spatial Representation: Samples were collected from San Gabriel River Reach 2 (Firestone to Whittier Narrows Dam) from three sample stations:SG-R12 and SG-R2.
Temporal Representation: Samples were collected monthly from June 2006 through May of 2010.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: The Biology Department of the San Jose Creek Water Quality Laboratory is responsible for collecting samples from receiving water stations along the San Gabriel River, Coyote Creek, San Jose Creek, Santa Clara River, and the Rio Hondo River. Data is collected for the Los Angeles Sanitation District NPDES permits. Some standard operating procedures for sampling were submitted, however no QA Project Plan was.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 32384, Aluminum
Region 4     
San Gabriel River Reach 2 (Firestone to Whittier Narrows Dam
 
LOE ID: 2461
 
Pollutant: Aluminum
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 0
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: Not Specified
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Twelve samples at this location were collected.

Summary of Results for the 2000-2001 Routine Monitoring at the San Gabriel River (Table B-5) (LACDPW, 2004c).
Data Reference: Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: There is no applicable water quality guideline for this pollutant in this water body for the assigned beneficial use.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The San Gabriel River Monitoring Station is located at an historic stream gauge station (Stream Gauge No. F263C-R), below San Gabriel River Parkway in Pico Rivera. At this location the upstream tributary area is 450 square miles. The San Gabriel River, at the gauging station, is a grouted rock-concrete stabilizer along the western levee and a natural section on the eastern side. Flow measurement and water sampling are conducted in the grouted rock area along the western levee of the river. The length of the concrete stabilizer is nearly 70 feet. The San Gabriel River sampling location has been an active stream gauging station since 1968.
Temporal Representation: Samples taken between 10/28/2000 and 4/30/2003.
Environmental Conditions: Samples taken on 10/10/2002 and 4/30/2003 were dry weather samples. All others were wet weather sampels.
QAPP Information: Detailed QA/QC contained in this report.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
 
DECISION ID
66298
Region 4     
San Gabriel River Reach 2 (Firestone to Whittier Narrows Dam
 
Pollutant: Arsenic
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 Staff 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.

1 line of evidence is available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant.
0 of 42 samples exceeded the CRITERIA.

Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is sufficient justification against placing this water segment-pollutant combination on the CWA section 303(d) List in the Water Quality Limited Segments category. This conclusion is based on the staff findings that:
1. The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy.
2. The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy.
3. 0 of 42 samples exceeded the CRITERIA and this does not exceed the allowable frequency listed in Table 3.1 of the Listing Policy.
4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.
 
Regional Board Staff 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.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 66298, Arsenic
Region 4     
San Gabriel River Reach 2 (Firestone to Whittier Narrows Dam
 
LOE ID: 87906
 
Pollutant: Arsenic
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 42
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: Fixed station physical/chemical (conventional plus toxic pollutants)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: None of the 42 samples exceeded the criteria of 150 ug/L.
Data Reference: Data for Various Pollutants in Various Water Bodies in Sanitation Districts of Los Angeles County, 2005-2010.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Surface waters shall not contain concentrations of chemical constituents in amounts that adversely affect any designated beneficial use.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan Los Angeles Region R4 Basin Plan
 
Evaluation Guideline: California Toxics Rule (CTR) lists criterion continuous concentrations (4-day average) to protect aquatic life in freshwater. The CTR for arsenic is 150 ug/L.
Guideline Reference: Code of Federal Regulations 40 part 131.38 Establishment of numeric criteria for priority toxic pollutants for the State of California. 7/1/2011 Edition
 
Spatial Representation: Samples were collected from San Gabriel River Reach 2 (Firestone to Whittier Narrows Dam) from three sample stations: SG-R12 and SG-R2.
Temporal Representation: Samples were collected monthly from June 2006 through May of 2010.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: The Biology Department of the San Jose Creek Water Quality Laboratory is responsible for collecting samples from receiving water stations along the San Gabriel River, Coyote Creek, San Jose Creek, Santa Clara River, and the Rio Hondo River. Data is collected for the Los Angeles Sanitation District NPDES permits. Some standard operating procedures for sampling were submitted, however no QA Project Plan was.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
 
DECISION ID
66299
Region 4     
San Gabriel River Reach 2 (Firestone to Whittier Narrows Dam
 
Pollutant: Cadmium
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 Staff 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.

1 line of evidence is available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant.
0 of 42 samples exceeded the CRITERIA.

Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is sufficient justification against placing this water segment-pollutant combination on the CWA section 303(d) List in the Water Quality Limited Segments category. This conclusion is based on the staff findings that:
1. The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy.
2. The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy.
3. 0 of 42 samples exceeded the CRITERIA and this does not exceed the allowable frequency listed in Table 3.1 of the Listing Policy.
4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.
 
Regional Board Staff 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.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 66299, Cadmium
Region 4     
San Gabriel River Reach 2 (Firestone to Whittier Narrows Dam
 
LOE ID: 87907
 
Pollutant: Cadmium
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 42
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: Fixed station physical/chemical (conventional plus toxic pollutants)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: None of the 42 samples exceeded the hardness adjusted criteria.
Data Reference: Data for Various Pollutants in Various Water Bodies in Sanitation Districts of Los Angeles County, 2005-2010.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Surface waters shall not contain concentrations of chemical constituents in amounts that adversely affect any designated beneficial use.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan Los Angeles Region R4 Basin Plan
 
Evaluation Guideline: California Toxics Rule (CTR) lists criterion continuous concentrations (4-day average) to protect aquatic life in freshwater. The criterion in freshwater is hardness dependent for each sample and varies based on the ambient hardness during sampling. Section (b)(1) in CTR contains the hardness dependent formula for the metals criterion. If no hardness data were available, a value of 100 mg/L was used.
Guideline Reference: Code of Federal Regulations 40 part 131.38 Establishment of numeric criteria for priority toxic pollutants for the State of California. 7/1/2011 Edition
 
Spatial Representation: Samples were collected from San Gabriel River Reach 2 (Firestone to Whittier Narrows Dam) from three sample stations: SG-R12, SJC-R2 and SG-R2.
Temporal Representation: Samples were collected monthly from June 2006 through May of 2010.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: The Biology Department of the San Jose Creek Water Quality Laboratory is responsible for collecting samples from receiving water stations along the San Gabriel River, Coyote Creek, San Jose Creek, Santa Clara River, and the Rio Hondo River. Data is collected for the Los Angeles Sanitation District NPDES permits. Some standard operating procedures for sampling were submitted, however no QA Project Plan was.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
 
DECISION ID
66311
Region 4     
San Gabriel River Reach 2 (Firestone to Whittier Narrows Dam
 
Pollutant: Chromium
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 Staff 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.

2 lines of evidence are available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant.
0 of 42 samples exceeded the CRITERIA.
0 of 38 samples exceeded the CRITERIA.

Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is sufficient justification against placing this water segment-pollutant combination on the CWA section 303(d) List in the Water Quality Limited Segments category. This conclusion is based on the staff findings that:
1. The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy.
2. The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy.
3. 0 of 42 and 0 of 38 samples exceeded the CRITERIA and this does not exceed the allowable frequency listed in Table 3.1 of the Listing Policy.
4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.
 
Regional Board Staff 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.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 66311, Chromium
Region 4     
San Gabriel River Reach 2 (Firestone to Whittier Narrows Dam
 
LOE ID: 87915
 
Pollutant: Chromium, hexavalent
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 38
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: Fixed station physical/chemical (conventional plus toxic pollutants)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: None of the 38 samples exceeded the criteria of 11 ug/L.
Data Reference: Data for Various Pollutants in Various Water Bodies in Sanitation Districts of Los Angeles County, 2005-2010.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Surface waters shall not contain concentrations of chemical constituents in amounts that adversely affect any designated beneficial use.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan Los Angeles Region R4 Basin Plan
 
Evaluation Guideline: California Toxics Rule (CTR) lists criterion continuous concentrations (4-day average) to protect aquatic life in freshwater. The CTR for hexavalent chromium is 11 ug/L.
Guideline Reference: Code of Federal Regulations 40 part 131.38 Establishment of numeric criteria for priority toxic pollutants for the State of California. 7/1/2011 Edition
 
Spatial Representation: Samples were collected from San Gabriel River Reach 2 (Firestone to Whittier Narrows Dam) from three sample stations: SG-R12, SJC-R2 and SG-R2.
Temporal Representation: Samples were collected monthly from June 2006 through May of 2010.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: The Biology Department of the San Jose Creek Water Quality Laboratory is responsible for collecting samples from receiving water stations along the San Gabriel River, Coyote Creek, San Jose Creek, Santa Clara River, and the Rio Hondo River. Data is collected for the Los Angeles Sanitation District NPDES permits. Some standard operating procedures for sampling were submitted, however no QA Project Plan was.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 66311, Chromium
Region 4     
San Gabriel River Reach 2 (Firestone to Whittier Narrows Dam
 
LOE ID: 87914
 
Pollutant: Chromium
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 42
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: Fixed station physical/chemical (conventional plus toxic pollutants)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: None of the 42 samples exceeded the hardness adjusted criteria.
Data Reference: Data for Various Pollutants in Various Water Bodies in Sanitation Districts of Los Angeles County, 2005-2010.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Surface waters shall not contain concentrations of chemical constituents in amounts that adversely affect any designated beneficial use.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan Los Angeles Region R4 Basin Plan
 
Evaluation Guideline: California Toxics Rule (CTR) lists criterion continuous concentrations (4-day average) to protect aquatic life in freshwater. The criterion in freshwater is hardness dependent for each sample and varies based on the ambient hardness during sampling. Section (b)(1) in CTR contains the hardness dependent formula for the metals criterion. If no hardness data were available, a value of 100 mg/L was used.
Guideline Reference: Code of Federal Regulations 40 part 131.38 Establishment of numeric criteria for priority toxic pollutants for the State of California. 7/1/2011 Edition
 
Spatial Representation: Samples were collected from San Gabriel River Reach 2 (Firestone to Whittier Narrows Dam) from three sample stations: SG-R12, SJC-R2 and SG-R2.
Temporal Representation: Samples were collected monthly from June 2006 through May of 2010.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: The Biology Department of the San Jose Creek Water Quality Laboratory is responsible for collecting samples from receiving water stations along the San Gabriel River, Coyote Creek, San Jose Creek, Santa Clara River, and the Rio Hondo River. Data is collected for the Los Angeles Sanitation District NPDES permits. Some standard operating procedures for sampling were submitted, however no QA Project Plan was.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
 
DECISION ID
32392
Region 4     
San Gabriel River Reach 2 (Firestone to Whittier Narrows Dam
 
Pollutant: Iron
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)(2012)
Revision Status Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Staff 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.

2 lines of evidence are available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant.
0 of the 0 samples exceed the CRITERIA.
2 of the 29 samples exceed the CRITERIA.

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

This conclusion is based on the staff findings that:
1. The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy.
2. The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy.
3. 0 of 0 and 2 of 29 samples exceeded the CRITERIA and this does not exceed the allowable frequency listed in Table 3.1 of the Listing Policy.
4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.
 
Regional Board Staff 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.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 32392, Iron
Region 4     
San Gabriel River Reach 2 (Firestone to Whittier Narrows Dam
 
LOE ID: 87918
 
Pollutant: Iron
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 29
Number of Exceedances: 2
 
Data and Information Type: Fixed station physical/chemical (conventional plus toxic pollutants)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Two of the 29 samples exceeded the criteria of 1,000 ug/L.
Data Reference: Data for Various Pollutants in Various Water Bodies in Sanitation Districts of Los Angeles County, 2005-2010.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Surface waters shall not contain concentrations of chemical constituents in amounts that adversely affect any designated beneficial use.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan Los Angeles Region R4 Basin Plan
 
Evaluation Guideline: National Recommended Water Quality Criteria Continuous Concentrations are intended protect aquatic organisms from chronic exposures (expressed as 4-day average concentration) in freshwater. The evaluation guideline for iron is 1,000 ug/L to protect warm freshwater habitat.
Guideline Reference: National Recommended Water Quality Criteria. United States Environmental Protection Agency. Office of Water. Office of Science and Technology
 
Spatial Representation: Samples were collected from San Gabriel River Reach 2 (Firestone to Whittier Narrows Dam) from three sample stations: SG-R12, SJC-R2 and SG-R2.
Temporal Representation: Samples were collected monthly from June 2006 through May of 2010.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: The Biology Department of the San Jose Creek Water Quality Laboratory is responsible for collecting samples from receiving water stations along the San Gabriel River, Coyote Creek, San Jose Creek, Santa Clara River, and the Rio Hondo River. Data is collected for the Los Angeles Sanitation District NPDES permits. Some standard operating procedures for sampling were submitted, however no QA Project Plan was.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 32392, Iron
Region 4     
San Gabriel River Reach 2 (Firestone to Whittier Narrows Dam
 
LOE ID: 2462
 
Pollutant: Iron
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Water Contact Recreation
 
Number of Samples: 0
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: It is unknown whether any of the 18 samples taken at this location exceeded a WQO, criteria or guideline for total Iron. (LACDPW, 2004c).

Summary of Results for the 2000-2001 Routine Monitoring at the San Gabriel River (Table B-5)
Data Reference: Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: There is no fresh water WQO criteria or guideline for total lead linked or applicable with protection of REC1, Aquatic Life or MUN BUs.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The San Gabriel River Monitoring Station is located at an historic stream gage station (Stream Gage No. F263C-R), below San Gabriel River Parkway in Pico Rivera. At this location the upstream tributary area is 450 square miles. The San Gabriel River, at the gauging station, is a grouted rock-concrete stabilizer along the western levee and a natural section on the eastern side. Flow measurement and water sampling are conducted in the grouted rock area along the western levee of the river. The length of the concrete stabilizer is nearly 70 feet. The San Gabriel River sampling location has been an active stream gauging station since 1968.
Temporal Representation: Samples taken between 10/28/2000 and 4/30/2003
Environmental Conditions: Samples taken on 10/10/2002 and 4/30/2003 were 'DRY' samples. All others were 'WET'.
QAPP Information: Detailed QA/QC contained in this report.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
 
DECISION ID
66303
Region 4     
San Gabriel River Reach 2 (Firestone to Whittier Narrows Dam
 
Pollutant: Mercury
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 Staff 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.

1 line of evidence is available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant.
0 of 63 samples exceeded the CRITERIA.

Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is sufficient justification against placing this water segment-pollutant combination on the CWA section 303(d) List in the Water Quality Limited Segments category. This conclusion is based on the staff findings that:
1. The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy.
2. The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy.
3. 0 of 63 samples exceeded the CRITERIA and this does not exceed the allowable frequency listed in Table 3.1 of the Listing Policy.
4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.
 
Regional Board Staff 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.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 66303, Mercury
Region 4     
San Gabriel River Reach 2 (Firestone to Whittier Narrows Dam
 
LOE ID: 87815
 
Pollutant: Mercury
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 63
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: Fixed station physical/chemical (conventional plus toxic pollutants)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: None of the 63 samples exceeded the criteria of 0.77 ug/L.
Data Reference: Data for Various Pollutants in Various Water Bodies in Sanitation Districts of Los Angeles County, 2005-2010.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Surface waters shall not contain concentrations of chemical constituents in amounts that adversely affect any designated beneficial use.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan Los Angeles Region R4 Basin Plan
 
Evaluation Guideline: National Recommended Water Quality Criteria Continuous Concentrations (4-day average concentrations) for freshwater aquatic organisms exposure to elemental mercury is 0.77 ug/L.
Guideline Reference: National Recommended Water Quality Criteria. United States Environmental Protection Agency. Office of Water. Office of Science and Technology
 
Spatial Representation: Samples were collected from San Gabriel River Reach 2 (Firestone to Whittier Narrows Dam) from two sample stations: SJC-R12 also called SG-R12 and SJC-R2 also called SG-R2.
Temporal Representation: Samples were collected monthly from June 2006 through May of 2010.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: The Biology Department of the San Jose Creek Water Quality Laboratory is responsible for collecting samples from receiving water stations along the San Gabriel River, Coyote Creek, San Jose Creek, Santa Clara River, and the Rio Hondo River. Data is collected for the Los Angeles Sanitation District NPDES permits. Some standard operating procedures for sampling were submitted, however no QA Project Plan was.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
 
DECISION ID
66302
Region 4     
San Gabriel River Reach 2 (Firestone to Whittier Narrows Dam
 
Pollutant: Nickel
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 Staff 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.

1 line of evidence is available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant.
0 of 42 samples exceeded the CRITERIA.

Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is sufficient justification against placing this water segment-pollutant combination on the CWA section 303(d) List in the Water Quality Limited Segments category. This conclusion is based on the staff findings that:
1. The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy.
2. The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy.
3. 0 of 42 samples exceeded the CRITERIA and this does not exceed the allowable frequency listed in Table 3.1 of the Listing Policy.
4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.
 
Regional Board Staff 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.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 66302, Nickel
Region 4     
San Gabriel River Reach 2 (Firestone to Whittier Narrows Dam
 
LOE ID: 87816
 
Pollutant: Nickel
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 42
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: Fixed station physical/chemical (conventional plus toxic pollutants)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: None of the 42 samples exceeded the hardness adjusted criteria.
Data Reference: Data for Various Pollutants in Various Water Bodies in Sanitation Districts of Los Angeles County, 2005-2010.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Surface waters shall not contain concentrations of chemical constituents in amounts that adversely affect any designated beneficial use.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan Los Angeles Region R4 Basin Plan
 
Evaluation Guideline: California Toxics Rule (CTR) lists criterion continuous concentrations (4-day average) to protect aquatic life in freshwater. The criterion in freshwater is hardness dependent for each sample and varies based on the ambient hardness during sampling. Section (b)(1) in CTR contains the hardness dependent formula for the metals criterion. If no hardness data were available, a value of 100 mg/L was used.
Guideline Reference: Code of Federal Regulations 40 part 131.38 Establishment of numeric criteria for priority toxic pollutants for the State of California. 7/1/2011 Edition
 
Spatial Representation: Samples were collected from San Gabriel River Reach 2 (Firestone to Whittier Narrows Dam) from three sample stations: SG-R12, SJC-R2 and SG-R2.
Temporal Representation: Samples were collected monthly from June 2006 through May of 2010.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: The Biology Department of the San Jose Creek Water Quality Laboratory is responsible for collecting samples from receiving water stations along the San Gabriel River, Coyote Creek, San Jose Creek, Santa Clara River, and the Rio Hondo River. Data is collected for the Los Angeles Sanitation District NPDES permits. Some standard operating procedures for sampling were submitted, however no QA Project Plan was.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
 
DECISION ID
66305
Region 4     
San Gabriel River Reach 2 (Firestone to Whittier Narrows Dam
 
Pollutant: Nitrogen, ammonia (Total Ammonia)
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 Staff 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.

1 line of evidence is available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant.
0 of 217 samples exceeded the CRITERIA.

Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is sufficient justification against placing this water segment-pollutant combination on the CWA section 303(d) List in the Water Quality Limited Segments category. This conclusion is based on the staff findings that:
1. The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy.
2. The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy.
3. 0 of 217 samples exceeded the CRITERIA and this does not exceed the allowable frequency listed in Table 3.1 of the Listing Policy.
4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.
 
Regional Board Staff 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.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 66305, Nitrogen, ammonia (Total Ammonia)
Region 4     
San Gabriel River Reach 2 (Firestone to Whittier Narrows Dam
 
LOE ID: 87817
 
Pollutant: Nitrogen, ammonia (Total Ammonia)
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 217
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: Fixed station physical/chemical (conventional plus toxic pollutants)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: 0 out of 217 30-day averages exceeded the objective for ammonia. Only samples during the months when early life stages were present were assessed. A calendar month was considered as a 30-day averaging period.
Data Reference: Data for Various Pollutants in Various Water Bodies in Sanitation Districts of Los Angeles County, 2005-2010.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Los Angeles Regional Water Quality Control Plan 30-day site specific objective for total ammonia as nitrogen is a function of pH, temperature, and the presence of early life stages. The site specific objective for San Gabriel River Reaches 2 and 3 (Confluence with San Jose Creek to Firestone Blvd.) has early life stages present from April 1st to September 30th.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan Los Angeles Region R4 Basin Plan
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Samples were collected at monitoring stations San Jose Creek R2 (SG-R2), and San Jose Creek R12 (SG-R12).
Temporal Representation: Samples were collected from June 2005 to October 2009. Samples at SG-R2 were collected weekly.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Samples were collected as part of an NPDES permit requirement. Receiving water data collected to represent the water body as a whole. No QAPP was submitted but an unsigned field manual was.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
 
DECISION ID
66308
Region 4     
San Gabriel River Reach 2 (Firestone to Whittier Narrows Dam
 
Pollutant: Oxygen, Dissolved
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 Staff 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.

1 line of evidence is available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant.
0 of 65 samples exceeded the OBJECTIVE.

Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is sufficient justification against placing this water segment-pollutant combination on the CWA section 303(d) List. This conclusion is based on the staff findings that:
1. The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy.
2. The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy.
3. 0 of 65 samples exceeded the OBJECTIVE 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 Staff 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.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 66308, Oxygen, Dissolved
Region 4     
San Gabriel River Reach 2 (Firestone to Whittier Narrows Dam
 
LOE ID: 87818
 
Pollutant: Oxygen, Dissolved
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 65
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Numeric data generated from 65 averages of Dissolved Oxygen concentrations had no exceedances.
Data Reference: Data for Various Pollutants in Various Water Bodies in Sanitation Districts of Los Angeles County, 2005-2010.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Dissolved Oxygen Water Quality Objective of all surface waters designated as Warm Fresh Water Aquatic Habitat shall not be depressed below 5 mg/l.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan Los Angeles Region R4 Basin Plan
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Samples were collected from the SJC-R2 and SJC-R12 stations.
Temporal Representation: Samples were collected approximately once a month from July 2005 to November 2009.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: NPDES quality assurance.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
 
DECISION ID
66306
Region 4     
San Gabriel River Reach 2 (Firestone to Whittier Narrows Dam
 
Pollutant: Selenium
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 Staff 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.

1 line of evidence is available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant.
0 of 72 samples exceeded the CRITERIA.

Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is sufficient justification against placing this water segment-pollutant combination on the CWA section 303(d) List in the Water Quality Limited Segments category. This conclusion is based on the staff findings that:
1. The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy.
2. The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy.
3. 0 of 72 samples exceeded the CRITERIA and this does not exceed the allowable frequency listed in Table 3.1 of the Listing Policy.
4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.
 
Regional Board Staff 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.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 66306, Selenium
Region 4     
San Gabriel River Reach 2 (Firestone to Whittier Narrows Dam
 
LOE ID: 87825
 
Pollutant: Selenium
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 72
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: Fixed station physical/chemical (conventional plus toxic pollutants)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: None of the 72 samples exceeded the criteria of 5 ug/L.
Data Reference: Data for Various Pollutants in Various Water Bodies in Sanitation Districts of Los Angeles County, 2005-2010.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Surface waters shall not contain concentrations of chemical constituents in amounts that adversely affect any designated beneficial use.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan Los Angeles Region R4 Basin Plan
 
Evaluation Guideline: California Toxics Rule (CTR) lists criterion continuous concentrations (4-day average) to protect aquatic life in freshwater. The CTR for selenium is 5.0 ug/L.
Guideline Reference: Code of Federal Regulations 40 part 131.38 Establishment of numeric criteria for priority toxic pollutants for the State of California. 7/1/2011 Edition
 
Spatial Representation: Samples were collected from San Gabriel River Reach 2 (Firestone to Whittier Narrows Dam) from two sample stations: SJC-R12 also called SG-R12 and SJC-R2 also called SG-R2.
Temporal Representation: Samples were collected monthly from June 2006 through May of 2010.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: The Biology Department of the San Jose Creek Water Quality Laboratory is responsible for collecting samples from receiving water stations along the San Gabriel River, Coyote Creek, San Jose Creek, Santa Clara River, and the Rio Hondo River. Data is collected for the Los Angeles Sanitation District NPDES permits. Some standard operating procedures for sampling were submitted, however no QA Project Plan was.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
 
DECISION ID
66304
Region 4     
San Gabriel River Reach 2 (Firestone to Whittier Narrows Dam
 
Pollutant: Silver
Final Listing Decision: Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: New Decision
Revision Status Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Staff 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.

1 line of evidence is available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant.
0 of 41 samples exceeded the CRITERIA.

Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is sufficient justification against placing this water segment-pollutant combination on the CWA section 303(d) List in the Water Quality Limited Segments category. This conclusion is based on the staff findings that:
1. The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy.
2. The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy.
3. 0 of 41 samples exceeded the CRITERIA and this does not exceed the allowable frequency listed in Table 3.1 of the Listing Policy.
4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.
 
Regional Board Staff 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.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 66304, Silver
Region 4     
San Gabriel River Reach 2 (Firestone to Whittier Narrows Dam
 
LOE ID: 87826
 
Pollutant: Silver
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 41
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: Fixed station physical/chemical (conventional plus toxic pollutants)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: None of the 41 samples exceeded the hardness adjusted criteria.
Data Reference: Data for Various Pollutants in Various Water Bodies in Sanitation Districts of Los Angeles County, 2005-2010.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Surface waters shall not contain concentrations of chemical constituents in amounts that adversely affect any designated beneficial use.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan Los Angeles Region R4 Basin Plan
 
Evaluation Guideline: California Toxics Rule (CTR) lists criterion maximum concentrations for silver to protect aquatic life in freshwater (1-hour average). The silver criterion in freshwater is hardness dependent for each sample and varies based on the ambient hardness during sampling. Section (b)(1) in CTR contains the hardness dependent formula for the metals criterion. If no hardness data were available, a value of 100 mg/L was used.
Guideline Reference: Code of Federal Regulations 40 part 131.38 Establishment of numeric criteria for priority toxic pollutants for the State of California. 7/1/2011 Edition
 
Spatial Representation: Samples were collected from San Gabriel River Reach 2 (Firestone to Whittier Narrows Dam) from three sample stations: SG-R12, SJC-R2 and SG-R2.
Temporal Representation: Samples were collected monthly from June 2006 through May of 2010.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: The Biology Department of the San Jose Creek Water Quality Laboratory is responsible for collecting samples from receiving water stations along the San Gabriel River, Coyote Creek, San Jose Creek, Santa Clara River, and the Rio Hondo River. Data is collected for the Los Angeles Sanitation District NPDES permits. Some standard operating procedures for sampling were submitted, however no QA Project Plan was.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
 
DECISION ID
66307
Region 4     
San Gabriel River Reach 2 (Firestone to Whittier Narrows Dam
 
Pollutant: Toxicity
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 Staff Conclusion: This pollutant is being considered for placement on the CWA section 303(d) List under section 3.6 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.6 a single line of evidence are necessary to assess listing status.

2 lines of evidence are available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant.
0 of 16 samples exceeded the GUIDELINE.
0 of 18 samples exceeded 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 in the Water Quality Limited Segments category. This conclusion is based on the staff findings that:
1. The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy.
2. The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy.
3. 0 of 16 and 0 of 18 samples exceeded the GUIDELINE and this does not exceed the allowable frequency listed in Table 3.1 of the Listing Policy.
4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.
 
Regional Board Staff 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.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 66307, Toxicity
Region 4     
San Gabriel River Reach 2 (Firestone to Whittier Narrows Dam
 
LOE ID: 87828
 
Pollutant: Toxicity
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 18
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: Fixed station physical/chemical (conventional plus toxic pollutants)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Zero of the 18 samples exceeded the evaluation guideline. Toxicity data was not reported with a control, therefore anything reported as <100 (chronic) or <100% survival (acute) was considered an exceedance.
Data Reference: Data for Various Pollutants in Various Water Bodies in Sanitation Districts of Los Angeles County, 2005-2010.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Toxic pollutants shall not be present at levels that will bioaccumulate in aquatic life to levels which are harmful to aquatic life or human health. No individual pesticide or combination of pesticides shall be present in concentrations that adversely affect beneficial uses. There shall be no bioaccumulation of pesticide concentrations found in bottom sediments or aquatic life.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan Los Angeles Region R4 Basin Plan
 
Evaluation Guideline: Statistically significant difference from control using a t-test or other valid statistical tests.
Guideline Reference: Short-term Methods for Estimating the Chronic Toxicity of Effluents and Receiving Waters to Freshwater Organisms. Fourth Edition. Office of Water, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Washington, D.C. EPA-821-R-02-013
 
Spatial Representation: Samples were collected from location SG sublocation R2 and R12 . mapping change requested, remove R31, R31B to Reach 1.
Temporal Representation: Samples were collected quarterly from June 2006 through May of 2010.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: The Biology Department of the San Jose Creek Water Quality Laboratory is responsible for collecting samples from receiving water stations along the San Gabriel River, Coyote Creek, San Jose Creek, Santa Clara River, and the Rio Hondo River. Data is collected for the Los Angeles Sanitation District NPDES permits. Some standard operating procedures for sampling were submitted, however no QA Project Plan was.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 66307, Toxicity
Region 4     
San Gabriel River Reach 2 (Firestone to Whittier Narrows Dam
 
LOE ID: 87835
 
Pollutant: Toxicity
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Not Recorded
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 16
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: Fixed station physical/chemical (conventional plus toxic pollutants)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: None of the sixteen of the Ceriodaphnia dubia (water flea) 7-day survival/reproduction were reported with TU >1.
Data Reference: Data for Various Pollutants in Los Angeles County Flood Control District, 2006-2010.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: All waters shall be maintained free of toxic substances in concentrations that are toxic to, or that produce detrimental physiological responses in, human, plant, animal, or aquatic life.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan Los Angeles Region R4 Basin Plan
 
Evaluation Guideline: The chronic toxicity of the effluent is expressed and reported in Chronic Toxic Units, where,TUc = 100/NOEC or LC50 or EC50, as determined by the results of a critical lifestage toxicity. Toxicity is usually defined as the statistically significant difference from control using a t-test or other valid statistical tests. Since these toxicity data were submitted without a control, toxicity was determined as any sample where the TU was greater than 1.
Guideline Reference: Short-term Methods for Estimating the Chronic Toxicity of Effluents and Receiving Waters to Freshwater Organisms. Fourth Edition. Office of Water, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Washington, D.C. EPA-821-R-02-013
 
Spatial Representation: Samples were collected from San Gabriel River @ SGR Pkway (sample station S14).
Temporal Representation: Samples were collected in 2009-2010 from dry weather events No. 14 and 28, not No. 12 and 28. Please change the Temporal Representation to Samples were collected in 2009-2010 from dry weather events No. 14 and 28 and from wet weather events No. 13 and 19. Samples were collected in 2008-2009 from dry weather events No. 15 and 30 and from wet weather events No. 3 and 21. Samples were collected in 2007 - 2008 from dry weather events No. 27 and 47 and from wet weather events No. 21 and 30. Samples were collected in 2006 - 2007 from dry weather events on 11/1/2006 and 4/2/2007 and from wet weather events 12/9/2006 and 2/10/2007.
Environmental Conditions: Samples from two storm events(including the first storm of each year) and two dry weather events every year. Water are near an estuary so could be considered fresh or saline. Both types of species were used to test toxicity.
QAPP Information: Data were collected in accordance with NPDES permit No. CAS004001, Order No. 01-182.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
 
DECISION ID
66309
Region 4     
San Gabriel River Reach 2 (Firestone to Whittier Narrows Dam
 
Pollutant: pH
Final Listing Decision: Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: New Decision
Revision Status Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Staff 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.

1 line of evidence is available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant.
7 of 241 samples exceeded the OBJECTIVE.

Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is sufficient justification against placing this water segment-pollutant combination on the CWA section 303(d) List. This conclusion is based on the staff findings that:
1. The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy.
2. The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy.
3. 7 of 241 samples exceeded the OBJECTIVE 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 Staff 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.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 66309, pH
Region 4     
San Gabriel River Reach 2 (Firestone to Whittier Narrows Dam
 
LOE ID: 87824
 
Pollutant: pH
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 241
Number of Exceedances: 7
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Seven of 241 samples exceeded the objective.
Data Reference: Data for Various Pollutants in Various Water Bodies in Sanitation Districts of Los Angeles County, 2005-2010.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The pH of all inland surface waters shall not be depressed below 6.5 or raised above 8.5 as a result of waste discharges.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan Los Angeles Region R4 Basin Plan
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Samples were collected from the SG-R2 and SG-R12 stations.
Temporal Representation: Samples were collected approximately once a month from July 2005 to November 2009.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: NPDES quality assurance.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
 
DECISION ID
66310
Region 4     
San Gabriel River Reach 2 (Firestone to Whittier Narrows Dam
 
Pollutant: Temperature, water
Final Listing Decision: List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: New Decision
Revision Status Revised
Sources: Source Unknown
Expected TMDL Completion Date: 2027
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Staff 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.

1 line of evidence is available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant.
81 of 224 samples exceeded 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. 81 of 224 samples exceeded the OBJECTIVE 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 Staff 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.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 66310, Temperature, water
Region 4     
San Gabriel River Reach 2 (Firestone to Whittier Narrows Dam
 
LOE ID: 87827
 
Pollutant: Temperature, water
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 224
Number of Exceedances: 81
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Numeric data generated from 224 averages of temperature had 81 exceedences.
Data Reference: Data for Various Pollutants in Various Water Bodies in Sanitation Districts of Los Angeles County, 2005-2010.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: At no time shall warm freshwater habitat-designated waters be raised above 80 degrees Fahrenheit as a result of waste discharges.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan Los Angeles Region R4 Basin Plan
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Samples were collected from the SJC-R2 and SJC-R12 stations.
Temporal Representation: Samples were collected approximately once a month from July 2005 to November 2009.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: NPDES quality assurance.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
 
DECISION ID
32628
Region 4     
San Gabriel River Reach 2 (Firestone to Whittier Narrows Dam
 
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)(2012)
Revision Status Original
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Staff Conclusion: This pollutant is being considered for placement on the section 303(d) list under section 3.1 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.1 a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status.

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

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

This conclusion is based on the staff findings that:
1.The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy.
2.The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy.
3.Three of 41 samples exceeded the reach specific water quality objective for chloride and this does not exceed the allowable frequency listed in Table 3.1 of the Listing Policy.
4.Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.
 
Regional Board Staff Decision Recommendation: This is a decision previously approved by the State Water Resources Control Board and the USEPA. No new data were assessed by the Regional Board for the current cycle. The decision has not changed.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 32628, Chloride
Region 4     
San Gabriel River Reach 2 (Firestone to Whittier Narrows Dam
 
LOE ID: 25325
 
Pollutant: Chloride
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
Aquatic Life Use: Preservation of Rare & Endangered Species | Wildlife Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 20
Number of Exceedances: 2
 
Data and Information Type: Fixed station physical/chemical (conventional plus toxic pollutants)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Two of 20 samples exceeded the Basin Plan reach specific water quality objectives for Chloride in San Gabriel River Reach 2. Water quality samples were taken and analyzed for Chloride in accordance with the Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) permit monitoring and testing parameters.
Data Reference: Monitoring Report (MS4 Data) - CI 6948 for order no. 01-182 NPDES No. CAS004001 Municipal Storm Water and Urban Runoff Discharges within the County of Los Angeles, and the Incorporated Cities therein, Except the City of Long Beach
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Basin Plan lists a specific water quality criterion of 250mg/L for Chloride in San Gabriel River Reach 2.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan Los Angeles Region R4 Basin Plan
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The Los Angeles County Department of Public Works conducted sampling at the mass emission monitoring station S14 located downstream of the San Gabriel River Parkway (Lat: 34.0133815996, Long: -118.063082152).
Temporal Representation: Grab samples were taken approximately six per year (four wet-weather events and two dry-weather events), from October 2003 through April 2007.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Data was collected in compliance with the sampling and monitoring procedures detailed in County of Los Angeles MS4 Permit (NPDES No. CAS004001) Monitoring and Reporting Program.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Monitoring and Reporting Program - CI 6948 for order no. 01-182 NPDES No. CAS004001 Municipal Storm Water and Urban Runoff Discharges within the County of Los Angeles, and the incorporated cities, except the City of Long Beach
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 32628, Chloride
Region 4     
San Gabriel River Reach 2 (Firestone to Whittier Narrows Dam
 
LOE ID: 2463
 
Pollutant: Chloride
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Agricultural Supply
 
Number of Samples: 21
Number of Exceedances: 1
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: One out of 21 samples at this location exceeded the objective for chloride.

Summary of Results for the 2000-2001 Routine Monitoring at the San Gabriel River (Table B-5). ((LACDPW, 2004c).
Data Reference: Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: 150 mg/L (from the LARWQCB Basin Plan, Table 3-8, "Water Quality Objectives for Selected Constituents in Inland Surface Waters")
Objective/Criterion Reference: Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The San Gabriel River Monitoring Station is located at an historic stream gage station (Stream Gage No. F263C-R), below San Gabriel River Parkway in Pico Rivera. At this location the upstream tributary area is 450 square miles. The San Gabriel River, at the gauging station, is a grouted rock-concrete stabilizer along the western levee and a natural section on the eastern side. Flow measurement and water sampling are conducted in the grouted rock area along the western levee of the river. The length of the concrete stabilizer is nearly 70 feet. The San Gabriel River sampling location has been an active stream gauging station since 1968.
Temporal Representation: Samples taken between 10/28/2000 and 4/30/2003
Environmental Conditions: Samples taken on 10/10/2002 and 4/30/2003 were 'DRY' samples. All others were 'WET'.
QAPP Information: Detailed QA/QC contained in this report.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
 
DECISION ID
38365
Region 4     
San Gabriel River Reach 2 (Firestone to Whittier Narrows Dam
 
Pollutant: Nitrogen, Nitrite
Final Listing Decision: Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)(2012)
Revision Status Original
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Staff Conclusion: This pollutant is being considered for placement on the 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.

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

This conclusion is based on the staff findings that:
1. The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy.
2. The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy.
3. One of 18 samples exceeded the California Code of Regulations primary MCL for nitrite as nitrogen and this sample size is insufficient to determine, with the power and confidence of the Listing Policy, the applicable beneficial use support rating.
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 Staff Decision Recommendation: This is a decision previously approved by the State Water Resources Control Board and the USEPA. No new data were assessed by the Regional Board for the current cycle. The decision has not changed.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 38365, Nitrogen, Nitrite
Region 4     
San Gabriel River Reach 2 (Firestone to Whittier Narrows Dam
 
LOE ID: 25324
 
Pollutant: Nitrogen, Nitrite
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
Aquatic Life Use: Freshwater Replenishment | Preservation of Rare & Endangered Species | Wildlife Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 18
Number of Exceedances: 1
 
Data and Information Type: Fixed station physical/chemical (conventional plus toxic pollutants)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: One of 18 samples exceeded the California Code of Regulations primary MCL for nitrite as nitrogen. Water quality samples were taken and analyzed for nitrite-nitrogen in accordance with the Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) permit monitoring and testing parameters.
Data Reference: Monitoring Report (MS4 Data) - CI 6948 for order no. 01-182 NPDES No. CAS004001 Municipal Storm Water and Urban Runoff Discharges within the County of Los Angeles, and the Incorporated Cities therein, Except the City of Long Beach
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The California Code of Regulations' Table 64431-A lists a maximum contamination level (Primary MCL) of 1.0 mg/L for Nitrite as Nitrogen (NO2-N) to protect drinking water sources.
Objective/Criterion Reference: California Code of Regulations, Title 22, Division 4, Chapter 15. Domestic Water Quality and Monitoring
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The Los Angeles County Department of Public Works conducted sampling at the mass emission monitoring station S14 located downstream of the San Gabriel River Parkway (Lat: 34.0133815996, Long: -118.063082152).
Temporal Representation: Grab samples were taken approximately six times per year (four wet-weather events and two dry-weather events), from October 2003 through April 2007.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Data was collected in compliance with the sampling and monitoring procedures detailed in County of Los Angeles MS4 Permit (NPDES No. CAS004001) Monitoring and Reporting Program.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Monitoring and Reporting Program - CI 6948 for order no. 01-182 NPDES No. CAS004001 Municipal Storm Water and Urban Runoff Discharges within the County of Los Angeles, and the incorporated cities, except the City of Long Beach
 
 
DECISION ID
32629
Region 4     
San Gabriel River Reach 2 (Firestone to Whittier Narrows Dam
 
Pollutant: Total Dissolved Solids
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)(2012)
Revision Status Original
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Staff Conclusion: This pollutant is being considered for placement on the section 303(d) list under section 3.2 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.2 a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status.

One line of evidence is available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. One sample exceed the TDS 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 section 303(d) list in the Water Quality Limited Segments category.

This conclusion is based on the staff findings that:
1. The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy.
2. The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy.
3. One of 21 samples exceeded the TDS water quality objective and this sample size is insufficient to determine, with the power and confidence of the Listing Policy, the applicable beneficial use support rating.
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 Staff Decision Recommendation: This is a decision previously approved by the State Water Resources Control Board and the USEPA. No new data were assessed by the Regional Board for the current cycle. The decision has not changed.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 32629, Total Dissolved Solids
Region 4     
San Gabriel River Reach 2 (Firestone to Whittier Narrows Dam
 
LOE ID: 2464
 
Pollutant: Total Dissolved Solids
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 21
Number of Exceedances: 1
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: One out of 21 samples at this location exceeded the objective for TDS (LACDPW, 2004c).

Summary of Results for the 2000-2001 Routine Monitoring at the San Gabriel River (Table B-5)
Data Reference: Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: 750 mg/L (from the LARWQCB Basin Plan, Table 3-8, "Water Quality Objectives for Selected Constituents in Inland Surface Waters")
Objective/Criterion Reference: Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The San Gabriel River Monitoring Station is located at an historic stream gage station (Stream Gage No. F263C-R), below San Gabriel River Parkway in Pico Rivera. At this location the upstream tributary area is 450 square miles. The San Gabriel River, at the gauging station, is a grouted rock-concrete stabilizer along the western levee and a natural section on the eastern side. Flow measurement and water sampling are conducted in the grouted rock area along the western levee of the river. The length of the concrete stabilizer is nearly 70 feet. The San Gabriel River sampling location has been an active stream gauging station since 1968.
Temporal Representation: Samples taken between 10/28/2000 and 4/30/2003
Environmental Conditions: Samples taken during 10/10/2002 through 4/30/2003 were dry season samples. All others were wet weather samples.
QAPP Information: Detailed QA/QC contained in this report.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
 
DECISION ID
38135
Region 4     
San Gabriel River Reach 2 (Firestone to Whittier Narrows Dam
 
Pollutant: Cyanide
Final Listing Decision: List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)(2012)
Revision Status Original
Sources: Source Unknown
Expected TMDL Completion Date: 2021
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Staff Conclusion: This pollutant is being considered for placement on the 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.

Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is not sufficient justification for placing the water segment-pollutant combination on the section 303(d) list in the Water Quality Limited Segments category.

This conclusion is based on the staff findings that:
1. The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy.
2. The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy.
3. There are eight of 20 samples that exceed the CTR CCC and one of 20 samples that exceed the CTR CMC; 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 met.
 
Regional Board Staff Decision Recommendation: This is a decision previously approved by the State Water Resources Control Board and the USEPA. No new data were assessed by the Regional Board for the current cycle. The decision has not changed.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 38135, Cyanide
Region 4     
San Gabriel River Reach 2 (Firestone to Whittier Narrows Dam
 
LOE ID: 4805
 
Pollutant: Cyanide
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
Aquatic Life Use: Preservation of Rare & Endangered Species | Wildlife Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 20
Number of Exceedances: 8
 
Data and Information Type: Fixed station physical/chemical (conventional plus toxic pollutants)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Eight of 20 samples exceeded the California Toxics Rule Criterion Continuous Concentration for Cyanide and one of 20 samples exceeded the Criterion Maximum Concentration. Water quality samples were taken and analyzed for Cyanide in accordance with the Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) permit monitoring and testing parameters.
Data Reference: Monitoring Report (MS4 Data) - CI 6948 for order no. 01-182 NPDES No. CAS004001 Municipal Storm Water and Urban Runoff Discharges within the County of Los Angeles, and the Incorporated Cities therein, Except the City of Long Beach
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The California Toxics Rule lists a Criterion Continuous Concentration of 5.2 ug/L and a Criterion Maximum Concentration of 22 ug/L for Cyanide to protect aquatic life in freshwater.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Standards 2000. Establishment of numeric criteria for priority toxic pollutants for the State of California: Rules and regulations. Federal Register Vol. 65, No. 97. Washington, D.C.: Environmental Protection Agency
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The Los Angeles County Department of Public Works conducted sampling at the mass emission monitoring station S14 located downstream of the San Gabriel River Parkway (Lat: 34.0133815996, Long: -118.063082152).
Temporal Representation: Grab samples were taken approximately six per year (four wet-weather events and two dry-weather events), from October 2003 through April 2007.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Data was collected in compliance with the sampling and monitoring procedures detailed in County of Los Angeles MS4 Permit (NPDES No. CAS004001) Monitoring and Reporting Program.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Monitoring and Reporting Program - CI 6948 for order no. 01-182 NPDES No. CAS004001 Municipal Storm Water and Urban Runoff Discharges within the County of Los Angeles, and the incorporated cities, except the City of Long Beach