Draft California 2016 Integrated Report (303(d) List/305(b) Report)

Supporting Information

Regional Board 2 - San Francisco Bay Region

Water Body Name: San Pablo Bay
Water Body ID: CAB2061001019980928100945
Water Body Type: Bay & Harbor
 
DECISION ID
32374
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
Pollutant: Diazinon
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 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.

Five lines of evidence are available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. Zero of sixty five samples exceeded the guideline.

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.Zero of sixty five samples exceeded the guideline 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 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 32374, Diazinon
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 69
 
Pollutant: Diazinon
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Estuarine Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 0
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: Not Specified
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: 1st sample site: 19 samples, pollutant range: 450-44,320 pg/l, average: 6,339.4.
2nd sample site: 18 samples, pollutant range: 260-43,958 pg/l, average: 8,897.5.
3rd sample site: 15 samples, pollutant range: 370-31,190 pg/l, average: 6,028.4 (SFEI, 2001).
Data Reference: Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: All waters shall be maintained free of toxic substances in concentrations that are lethal to or that produce other detrimental responses in aquatic organisms. Detrimental responses include, but are not limited to, decreased growth rate and decreased reproductive success of resident or indicator species. There shall be no acute toxicity in ambient waters. There shall be no chronic toxicity in ambient waters.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)
 
Evaluation Guideline: For salt water, USEPA has developed a draft water quality criteria of 820 ng/L (acute) and 400 ng/L (chronic). The use of these values may not comply with all the requirements of section 6.1.3 of the Listing Policy.
Guideline Reference: Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)
 
Spatial Representation: Three sample sites.
Temporal Representation: 1st sample site: Date Range: 03/04/93-08/06/01.
2nd sample site: Date Range: 03/04/93-08/06/01
3rd sample site: Date Range: 03/04/93-08/06/01
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: SFEI RMP QA/QC program.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 32374, Diazinon
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 67
 
Pollutant: Diazinon
LOE Subgroup: Toxicity
Matrix: Not Specified
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Estuarine Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 0
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: TOXICITY TESTING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Ambient water toxicity in San Francisco Bay appears to have disappeared. The results of ambient water toxicity monitoring at Mallard Island indicate a significant reduction in the frequency, duration, and magnitude of toxicity: 4-5% of the ambient water samples were toxic in 1998-99 (34 total samples) and 1999-2000 (23 samples), relative to 14% toxicity frequency observed in 1997-98 (27 samples); none of the 28 samples collected during the 2000-2001 season were significantly toxic.

In addition, the 1998-2000 and 2000-2001 monitoring at Mallard Island did not document any sets of consecutively toxic samples indicative of an extended period of ambient water toxicity, such as were observed in February and May of 1998. Moreover, the magnitude of toxicity (as reflected by the degree [or percentage] of test organism mortality) is also markedly reduced in the later years, again suggesting a reduction in the degree of ambient water toxicity. Subsequent RMP monitoring of ambient water toxicity in water samples collected from October 2001 through April 2003, also indicated an absence of toxicity to the test organisms.
Data Reference: Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Basin Plan: There shall be no acute toxicity in ambient waters. There shall be no chronic toxicity in ambient waters.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation:
Temporal Representation:
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: QA Info Missing
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 32374, Diazinon
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 66
 
Pollutant: Diazinon
LOE Subgroup: Narrative Description Data
Matrix: -N/A
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Estuarine Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 0
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: Not Specified
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: In response to the RMP observations of ambient water toxicity, and given the linkage established between similar toxicity and pesticides in upstream ambient water, the SFBRWQCB identified all San Francisco Bay segments as being impaired due to 'Pesticides' in 1998:

'Pesticides have been added as a cause of impairment to all Bay segments. The pesticide diazinon has been measured at levels that cause water column toxicity. The pesticide chlorpyrifos may also be a problem. This listing is consistent with listing of the Delta for these pesticides by the Central Valley Regional Water Quality Control Board.' This listing was subsequently made specific for the OP pesticide diazinon by the USEPA.
Data Reference: Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion:
Objective/Criterion Reference:
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation:
Temporal Representation:
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: QA Info Missing
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 32374, Diazinon
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 95163
 
Pollutant: Diazinon
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Tissue
Matrix: Tissue
Fraction: Fish fillet
 
Beneficial Use: Commercial or recreational collection of fish, shellfish, or organisms
 
Number of Samples: 38
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: Fish tissue analysis
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed Regional Monitoring Program data for San Pablo Bay to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 38 samples exceed the criterion for diazinon. No samples were discarded for being non-detect, unquantifiable or the reporting limit exceeding the water quality objective.
Data Reference: Regional Monitoring Program data, Feb. 1993-Sep. 2008
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Francisco Bay Basin: Controllable water quality factors shall not cause a detrimental increase in concentrations of toxic substances found in bottom sediments or aquatic life. Effects on aquatic organisms, wildlife, and human health will be considered.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) San Francisco Bay Basin (Region 2)
 
Evaluation Guideline: The modified OEHHA Fish Contaminant Goal for diazinon in fish tissue is 1,500 ppb. This screening level assumes an average body weight of 70 kg and a consumption rate of 32 g/day. A cooking reduction factor of 1 is applied for skin-off fillets. (Klasing, S., and R. Brodberg, 2008; USEPA, 2000)
Guideline Reference: Development of Fish Contaminant Goals and Advisory Tissue Levels for Common Contaminants in California Sport Fish: Chlordane, DDTs, Dieldrin, Methylmercury, PCBs, Selenium, and Toxaphene
  Guidance for Assessing Chemical Contaminant Data for Use In Fish Advisories Volume 1: Fish Sampling and Analysis
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at three sites throughout San Pablo Bay.
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected in March 2000, June 2000, November 2000, July 2003, August 2003, September 2003, May 2006, August 2006.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: The 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances was used.
QAPP Information Reference(s): 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 32374, Diazinon
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 93146
 
Pollutant: Diazinon
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Estuarine Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 65
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: State Water Board staff assessed SFEI data for San Pablo Bay to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 65 samples exceed the criterion for Diazinon.
Data Reference: Regional Monitoring Program data, Feb. 1993-Sep. 2008
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: All waters shall be maintained free of toxic substances in concentrations which are toxic to, or which produce detrimental physiological responses in, human, plant, animal, or aquatic life. (Water Quality Control Plan, Central Coast Basin, Chapter III, Section II.A.2 Objectives for all Inland Surface Waters, Enclosed Bays and Estuaries).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) San Francisco Bay Basin (Region 2)
 
Evaluation Guideline: The freshwater chronic value for diazinon is 0.1 ug/L, expressed as a continuous concentration (Finlayson, 2004).
Guideline Reference: Water quality for diazinon. Memorandum to J. Karkoski, Central Valley RWQCB. Rancho Cordova, CA: Pesticide Investigation Unit, CA Department of Fish and Game
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for San Pablo Bay was collected at 15 monitoring sites [ Davis Point - BD40, Petaluma River - BD15, Pinole Point - BD30, San Pablo Bay - SPB008W, San Pablo Bay - SPB014W, San Pablo Bay - SPB016W, San Pablo Bay - SPB005W, San Pablo Bay - SPB002W, San Pablo Bay - SPB015W, San Pablo Bay - SPB007W, San Pablo Bay - SPB013W, San Pablo Bay - SPB006W, San Pablo Bay - SPB001W, San Pablo Bay - SPB003W, San Pablo Bay - SPB004W]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 2/7/1994-8/11/2005.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: The 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances was used.
QAPP Information Reference(s): 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances
 
 
DECISION ID
33887
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
Pollutant: Nickel
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 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.
Four lines of evidence are available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. Four of two hundred one 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. Four of two hundred one samples exceeded the objective 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 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 33887, Nickel
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 5193
 
Pollutant: Nickel
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Estuarine Habitat
Aquatic Life Use: Estuarine Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 107
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: Highest quality fixed-station P/C (conventional plus toxicants)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Data are dissolved nickel measurements of grab samples collected through two monitoring programs. The first is the ongoing Regional Monitoring Program (RMP) in San Francisco Bay. The second set of data was from a special discharger-funded study to develop copper and nickel site-specific objectives (SSOs) that began in 2001. These data were taken throughout San Francisco Bay, but the bulk of the data are from the deepwater portion of the Bay. There were 107 individual dissolved nickel measurements from water samples taken in San Pablo Bay, and none of these measurements exceeded the objective.
Data Reference: Spreadsheet of nickel data for San Franicsco Bay from Regional Monitoring Program and Special copper/nickel study (1993-2005)
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Regional Water Board Basin Plan contains water quality objectives of 8.2 microgram/Liter as a 4-day average and, 74 microgram/Liter as a 1-hour average. These objectives were approved by USEPA in January 2005 and are contained in the Regional Board Basin Plan in Table 3-3.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) - San Francisco Bay Region (Region 2)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Twenty-two sampling locations in San Pablo Bay.
Temporal Representation: Samples were taken from 1993 to 2005 in all seasons.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Regional Monitoring Program QA/QC program is documented at http://sfei.org/rmp/rmp_data_index.html.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 33887, Nickel
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 3691
 
Pollutant: Nickel
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Not Recorded
 
Beneficial Use: Estuarine Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 0
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: Not Specified
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Unspecified--This LOE is a placeholder to support a 303(d) listing decision made prior to 2006.
Data Reference: Placeholder reference pre-2006 303(d)
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Unspecified
Objective/Criterion Reference: Placeholder reference pre-2006 303(d)
 
Evaluation Guideline: Unspecified
Guideline Reference: Placeholder reference pre-2006 303(d)
 
Spatial Representation: Unspecified
Temporal Representation: Unspecified
Environmental Conditions: Unspecified
QAPP Information: Unspecified
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 33887, Nickel
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 93179
 
Pollutant: Nickel
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Estuarine Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 94
Number of Exceedances: 4
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: State Water Board staff assessed SFEI data for San Pablo Bay to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 4 of 94 samples exceed the criterion for Nickel.
Data Reference: Regional Monitoring Program data, Feb. 1993-Sep. 2008
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The dissolved nickel criterion continuous concentration (expressed as a 4-day average) to protect aquatic life in saline water is 0.0082 mg/L (California Toxics Rule, 2000).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) San Francisco Bay Basin (Region 2)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for San Pablo Bay was collected at 29 monitoring sites [ Davis Point - BD40, Petaluma River - BD15, Pinole Point - BD30, San Pablo Bay - SPB008W, San Pablo Bay - SPB014W, San Pablo Bay - SPB018W, San Pablo Bay - SPB016W, San Pablo Bay - SPB005W, San Pablo Bay - SPB020W, San Pablo Bay - SPB017W, San Pablo Bay - SPB010W, San Pablo Bay - SPB002W, San Pablo Bay - SPB015W, San Pablo Bay - SPB007W, San Pablo Bay - SPB013W, San Pablo Bay - SPB006W, San Pablo Bay - SPB019W, San Pablo Bay - SPB009W, San Pablo Bay - SPB011W, San Pablo Bay - SPB001W, San Pablo Bay - SPB023W, San Pablo Bay - SPB003W, San Pablo Bay - SPB012W, San Pablo Bay - SPB022W, San Pablo Bay - SPB004W, San Pablo Bay - SPB025W, San Pablo Bay - SPB021W, San Pablo Bay - SPB026W, San Pablo Bay - SPB024W]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 3/4/1993-7/14/2008.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: The 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances was used.
QAPP Information Reference(s): 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 33887, Nickel
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 93180
 
Pollutant: Nickel
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Commercial or recreational collection of fish, shellfish, or organisms
 
Number of Samples: 97
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: State Water Board staff assessed SFEI data for San Pablo Bay to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 97 samples exceed the criterion for Nickel.
Data Reference: Regional Monitoring Program data, Feb. 1993-Sep. 2008
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Nickel criteria for the protection of human health from consumption of organisms only is 4.6 mg/L (California Toxics Rule, 2000).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Code of Federal Regulations 40 part 131.38 Establishment of numeric criteria for priority toxic pollutants for the State of California. 7/1/2011 Edition
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for San Pablo Bay was collected at 28 monitoring sites [ Petaluma River - BD15, Pinole Point - BD30, Davis Point - BD40, San Pablo Bay - SPB001W, San Pablo Bay - SPB002W, San Pablo Bay - SPB003W, San Pablo Bay - SPB004W, San Pablo Bay - SPB005W, San Pablo Bay - SPB006W, San Pablo Bay - SPB007W, San Pablo Bay - SPB008W, San Pablo Bay - SPB009W, San Pablo Bay - SPB010W, San Pablo Bay - SPB011W, San Pablo Bay - SPB012W, San Pablo Bay - SPB013W, San Pablo Bay - SPB014W, San Pablo Bay - SPB015W, San Pablo Bay - SPB016W, San Pablo Bay - SPB017W, San Pablo Bay - SPB018W, San Pablo Bay - SPB019W, San Pablo Bay - SPB020W, San Pablo Bay - SPB021W, San Pablo Bay - SPB022W, San Pablo Bay - SPB024W, San Pablo Bay - SPB025W, San Pablo Bay - SPB026W]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 3/4/1993-7/14/2008.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: The 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances was used.
QAPP Information Reference(s): 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances
 
 
DECISION ID
33545
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
Pollutant: Chlordane
Final Listing Decision: Do Not Delist from 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)(2012)
Revision Status Revised
Sources: Source Unknown
Expected TMDL Completion Date: 2013
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: This pollutant is being considered for removal from the CWA section 303(d) List under section 4.1 of the Listing Policy. Under this section a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status.

Five lines of evidence are available in the administrative record to assess pollutant. Twenty-four of the sixty-three samples exceed the guideline.

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

This conclusion is based on the staff findings that:
1. The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy.
2. The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy.
3. Twenty-four of the sixty-three samples exceed the guideline and this exceeds the allowable frequency listed in Table 4.1 of the Listing Policy.
4. Pursuant to section 4.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are met.
 
Regional Board Decision Recommendation: After review of the available data and information, RWQCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should not be removed from the section 303(d) list because applicable water quality standards for the pollutant are being exceeded.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 33545, Chlordane
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 93137
 
Pollutant: Chlordane
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Estuarine Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 75
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: State Water Board staff assessed SFEI data for San Pablo Bay to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 75 samples exceed the criterion for Chlordane, Total.
Data Reference: Regional Monitoring Program data, Feb. 1993-Sep. 2008
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The chlordane criterion continuous concentration (expressed as a 4-day average) to protect aquatic life in saline water is 0.004 ug/L (California Toxics Rule, 2000).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Code of Federal Regulations 40 part 131.38 Establishment of numeric criteria for priority toxic pollutants for the State of California. 7/1/2011 Edition
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for San Pablo Bay was collected at 19 monitoring sites [ Davis Point - BD40, Petaluma River - BD15, Pinole Point - BD30, San Pablo Bay - SPB008W, San Pablo Bay - SPB014W, San Pablo Bay - SPB016W, San Pablo Bay - SPB005W, San Pablo Bay - SPB010W, San Pablo Bay - SPB002W, San Pablo Bay - SPB015W, San Pablo Bay - SPB007W, San Pablo Bay - SPB013W, San Pablo Bay - SPB006W, San Pablo Bay - SPB009W, San Pablo Bay - SPB011W, San Pablo Bay - SPB001W, San Pablo Bay - SPB003W, San Pablo Bay - SPB012W, San Pablo Bay - SPB004W]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 3/4/1993-8/11/2005.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: The 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances was used.
QAPP Information Reference(s): 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 33545, Chlordane
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 93138
 
Pollutant: Chlordane
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Commercial or recreational collection of fish, shellfish, or organisms
 
Number of Samples: 85
Number of Exceedances: 1
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: State Water Board staff assessed SFEI data for San Pablo Bay to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 1 of 85 samples exceed the criterion for Chlordane, Total.
Data Reference: Regional Monitoring Program data, Feb. 1993-Sep. 2008
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Chlordane, Total criteria for the protection of human health from consumption of organisms only is 0.00059 ug/L (California Toxics Rule, 2000).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Code of Federal Regulations 40 part 131.38 Establishment of numeric criteria for priority toxic pollutants for the State of California. 7/1/2011 Edition
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for San Pablo Bay was collected at 26 monitoring sites [ Petaluma River - BD15, Pinole Point - BD30, Davis Point - BD40, San Pablo Bay - SPB001W, San Pablo Bay - SPB002W, San Pablo Bay - SPB003W, San Pablo Bay - SPB004W, San Pablo Bay - SPB005W, San Pablo Bay - SPB006W, San Pablo Bay - SPB007W, San Pablo Bay - SPB008W, San Pablo Bay - SPB009W, San Pablo Bay - SPB010W, San Pablo Bay - SPB011W, San Pablo Bay - SPB012W, San Pablo Bay - SPB013W, San Pablo Bay - SPB014W, San Pablo Bay - SPB015W, San Pablo Bay - SPB016W, San Pablo Bay - SPB017W, San Pablo Bay - SPB018W, San Pablo Bay - SPB019W, San Pablo Bay - SPB020W, San Pablo Bay - SPB021W, San Pablo Bay - SPB022W, San Pablo Bay - SPB023W]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 3/4/1993-8/9/2007.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: The 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances was used.
QAPP Information Reference(s): 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 33545, Chlordane
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 95209
 
Pollutant: Chlordane
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Tissue
Matrix: Tissue
Fraction: Fish fillet
 
Beneficial Use: Commercial or recreational collection of fish, shellfish, or organisms
 
Number of Samples: 63
Number of Exceedances: 23
 
Data and Information Type: Fish tissue analysis
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed Regional Monitoring Program data for San Pablo Bay to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 23 of 63 samples exceed the criterion for chlordane. No samples were discarded for being non-detect, unquantifiable or the reporting limit exceeding the water quality objective.
Data Reference: Regional Monitoring Program data, Feb. 1993-Sep. 2008
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Francisco Bay Basin: Controllable water quality factors shall not cause a detrimental increase in concentrations of toxic substances found in bottom sediments or aquatic life. Effects on aquatic organisms, wildlife, and human health will be considered.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) San Francisco Bay Basin (Region 2)
 
Evaluation Guideline: The modified OEHHA Fish Contaminant Goal for total chlordane in fish tissue is 3.9 ppb. This screening level assumes an average body weight of 70 kg and a consumption rate of 32 g/day for a 30 year exposure over a 70-year lifetime. This constituent is a carcinogen therefore the risk level is set to one in a million. A cooking reduction factor of 1 is applied for skin-off fillets. (Klasing, S., and R. Brodberg, 2008)
Guideline Reference: Development of Fish Contaminant Goals and Advisory Tissue Levels for Common Contaminants in California Sport Fish: Chlordane, DDTs, Dieldrin, Methylmercury, PCBs, Selenium, and Toxaphene
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at six sites throughout San Pablo Bay.
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected every three years from May 1994 through August 2006.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: The 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances was used.
QAPP Information Reference(s): 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 33545, Chlordane
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 93652
 
Pollutant: Chlordane
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Tissue
Matrix: Tissue
Fraction: Shellfish
 
Beneficial Use: Shellfish Harvesting
 
Number of Samples: 53
Number of Exceedances: 1
 
Data and Information Type: Shellfish surveys
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: One of the 53 samples exceeded the guideline. All composite samples were comprised of Crassostrea gigas or Mytilus californianus. Data were reported on a dry weight basis and were converted to a wet weight basis by multiplying the dry-weight concentration by a factor of 1 minus the percentage of moisture content expressed as a decimal. Laboratory replicates were averaged. Total chlordane was calculated as the sum of the following chlordane isomers: cis- and trans-chlordane, cis- and trans-nonachlor, and oxychlordane.
Data Reference: Regional Monitoring Program data, Feb. 1993-Sep. 2008
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Francisco Bay Basin: Controllable water quality factors shall not cause a detrimental increase in concentrations of toxic substances found in bottom sediments or aquatic life. Effects on aquatic organisms, wildlife, and human health will be considered.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) San Francisco Bay Basin (Region 2)
 
Evaluation Guideline: The modified OEHHA Fish Contaminant Goal for total chlordane in shellfish tissue is 6.0 ppb. This screening level assumes an average body weight of 70 kg and a consumption rate of 21 g/day for a 30 year exposure over a 70-year lifetime. This constituent is a carcinogen therefore the risk level is set to one in a million. (Brodberg, R.K., and G.A. Pollock, 1999; Klasing, S., and R. Brodberg, 2008)
Guideline Reference: Prevalence of Selected Target Chemical Contaminants in Sport Fish From Two California Lakes: Public health designed screening study. Sacramento, CA: Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment
  Development of Fish Contaminant Goals and Advisory Tissue Levels for Common Contaminants in California Sport Fish: Chlordane, DDTs, Dieldrin, Methylmercury, PCBs, Selenium, and Toxaphene
 
Spatial Representation: Samples were collected at the following station: BD20 - San Pablo Bay, BD30 - Pinole Point, and BD40 Davis Point.
Temporal Representation: Samples were generally collected in spring and fall seasons from years 1994 - 1999 and then during most fall seasons during years 2000 - 2008.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances.
QAPP Information Reference(s): 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 33545, Chlordane
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 3859
 
Pollutant: Chlordane
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Tissue
Matrix: Tissue
Fraction: Not Recorded
 
Beneficial Use: Commercial or recreational collection of fish, shellfish, or organisms
 
Number of Samples: 0
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: Not Specified
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Unspecified--This LOE is a placeholder to support a 303(d) listing decision made prior to 2006.
Data Reference: Placeholder reference pre-2006 303(d)
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Unspecified
Objective/Criterion Reference: Placeholder reference pre-2006 303(d)
 
Evaluation Guideline: Unspecified
Guideline Reference: Placeholder reference pre-2006 303(d)
 
Spatial Representation: Unspecified
Temporal Representation: Unspecified
Environmental Conditions: Unspecified
QAPP Information: Unspecified
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
 
DECISION ID
34688
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
Pollutant: DDT (Dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane)
Final Listing Decision: Do Not Delist from 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)(2012)
Revision Status Revised
Sources: Source Unknown
Expected TMDL Completion Date: 2013
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: This pollutant is being considered for removal from the CWA section 303(d) List under section 4.1 of the Listing Policy. Under this section a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status.

Five lines of evidence are available in the administrative record to assess pollutant. Forty six of sixty three samples exceed the guideline.

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

This conclusion is based on the staff findings that:
1. The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy.
2. The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy.
3. Forty six of sixty three samples exceed the guideline and this exceeds the allowable frequency listed in Table 4.1 of the Listing Policy.
4. Pursuant to section 4.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are met.
 
Regional Board Decision Recommendation: After review of the available data and information, RWQCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should not be removed from the section 303(d) list because applicable water quality standards for the pollutant are being exceeded.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 34688, DDT (Dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane)
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 93188
 
Pollutant: Total DDT (sum of 4,4'- and 2,4'- isomers of DDT, DDE, and DDD)
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Commercial or recreational collection of fish, shellfish, or organisms
 
Number of Samples: 85
Number of Exceedances: 34
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: State Water Board staff assessed SFEI data for San Pablo Bay to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 34 of 85 samples exceed the criterion for DDT, Total.
Data Reference: Regional Monitoring Program data, Feb. 1993-Sep. 2008
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The DDT, Total criteria for the protection of human health from consumption of organisms only is 0.00059 ug/L (California Toxics Rule, 2000).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Code of Federal Regulations 40 part 131.38 Establishment of numeric criteria for priority toxic pollutants for the State of California. 7/1/2011 Edition
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for San Pablo Bay was collected at 26 monitoring sites [ Petaluma River - BD15, Pinole Point - BD30, Davis Point - BD40, San Pablo Bay - SPB001W, San Pablo Bay - SPB002W, San Pablo Bay - SPB003W, San Pablo Bay - SPB004W, San Pablo Bay - SPB005W, San Pablo Bay - SPB006W, San Pablo Bay - SPB007W, San Pablo Bay - SPB008W, San Pablo Bay - SPB009W, San Pablo Bay - SPB010W, San Pablo Bay - SPB011W, San Pablo Bay - SPB012W, San Pablo Bay - SPB013W, San Pablo Bay - SPB014W, San Pablo Bay - SPB015W, San Pablo Bay - SPB016W, San Pablo Bay - SPB017W, San Pablo Bay - SPB018W, San Pablo Bay - SPB019W, San Pablo Bay - SPB020W, San Pablo Bay - SPB021W, San Pablo Bay - SPB022W, San Pablo Bay - SPB023W]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 3/4/1993-8/9/2007.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: The 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances was used.
QAPP Information Reference(s): 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 34688, DDT (Dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane)
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 3860
 
Pollutant: DDT (Dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane)
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Tissue
Matrix: Tissue
Fraction: Not Recorded
 
Beneficial Use: Commercial or recreational collection of fish, shellfish, or organisms
 
Number of Samples: 0
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: Not Specified
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Unspecified--This LOE is a placeholder to support a 303(d) listing decision made prior to 2006.
Data Reference: Placeholder reference pre-2006 303(d)
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion:
Objective/Criterion Reference:
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation:
Temporal Representation: Unspecified
Environmental Conditions: Unspecified
QAPP Information: Unspecified
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 34688, DDT (Dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane)
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 93187
 
Pollutant: Total DDT (sum of 4,4'- and 2,4'- isomers of DDT, DDE, and DDD)
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Estuarine Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 75
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: State Water Board staff assessed SFEI data for San Pablo Bay to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 75 samples exceed the criterion for DDT, Total.
Data Reference: Regional Monitoring Program data, Feb. 1993-Sep. 2008
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The DDT criterion continuous concentration (expressed as a 4-day average) to protect aquatic life in saline water is 0.001 ug/L (California Toxics Rule, 2000).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Code of Federal Regulations 40 part 131.38 Establishment of numeric criteria for priority toxic pollutants for the State of California. 7/1/2011 Edition
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for San Pablo Bay was collected at 19 monitoring sites [ Davis Point - BD40, Petaluma River - BD15, Pinole Point - BD30, San Pablo Bay - SPB008W, San Pablo Bay - SPB014W, San Pablo Bay - SPB016W, San Pablo Bay - SPB005W, San Pablo Bay - SPB010W, San Pablo Bay - SPB002W, San Pablo Bay - SPB015W, San Pablo Bay - SPB007W, San Pablo Bay - SPB013W, San Pablo Bay - SPB006W, San Pablo Bay - SPB009W, San Pablo Bay - SPB011W, San Pablo Bay - SPB001W, San Pablo Bay - SPB003W, San Pablo Bay - SPB012W, San Pablo Bay - SPB004W]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 3/4/1993-8/11/2005.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: The 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances was used.
QAPP Information Reference(s): 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 34688, DDT (Dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane)
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 95198
 
Pollutant: DDT (Dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane)
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Tissue
Matrix: Tissue
Fraction: Fish fillet
 
Beneficial Use: Commercial or recreational collection of fish, shellfish, or organisms
 
Number of Samples: 63
Number of Exceedances: 45
 
Data and Information Type: Fish tissue analysis
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed Regional Monitoring Program data for San Pablo Bay to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 45 of 63 samples exceed the criterion for DDT. No samples were discarded for being non-detect, unquantifiable or the reporting limit exceeding the water quality objective.
Data Reference: Regional Monitoring Program data, Feb. 1993-Sep. 2008
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Francisco Bay Basin: Controllable water quality factors shall not cause a detrimental increase in concentrations of toxic substances found in bottom sediments or aquatic life. Effects on aquatic organisms, wildlife, and human health will be considered.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) San Francisco Bay Basin (Region 2)
 
Evaluation Guideline: The modified OEHHA Fish Contaminant Goal for total DDT in fish tissue is 15 ppb. This screening level assumes an average body weight of 70 kg and a consumption rate of 32 g/day for a 30 year exposure over a 70-year lifetime. This constituent is a carcinogen therefore the risk level is set to one in a million. A cooking reduction factor of 1 is applied for skin-off fillets. (Klasing, S., and R. Brodberg, 2008)
Guideline Reference: Development of Fish Contaminant Goals and Advisory Tissue Levels for Common Contaminants in California Sport Fish: Chlordane, DDTs, Dieldrin, Methylmercury, PCBs, Selenium, and Toxaphene
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at six sites throughout San Pablo Bay.
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected every three years from May 1994 through August 2006.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: The 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances was used.
QAPP Information Reference(s): 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 34688, DDT (Dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane)
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 93653
 
Pollutant: Total DDT (sum of 4,4'- and 2,4'- isomers of DDT, DDE, and DDD)
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Tissue
Matrix: Tissue
Fraction: Shellfish
 
Beneficial Use: Shellfish Harvesting
 
Number of Samples: 53
Number of Exceedances: 5
 
Data and Information Type: Shellfish surveys
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Five of the 53 samples exceeded the guideline. All composite samples were comprised of Crassostrea gigas or Mytilus californianus. Data were reported on a dry weight basis and were converted to a wet weight basis by multiplying the dry-weight concentration by a factor of 1 minus the percentage of moisture content expressed as a decimal. Laboratory replicates were averaged. Total DDT was calculated as the sum of 4,4'- and 2,4'- isomers of DDT, DDE, and DDD.
Data Reference: Regional Monitoring Program data, Feb. 1993-Sep. 2008
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Francisco Bay Basin: Controllable water quality factors shall not cause a detrimental increase in concentrations of toxic substances found in bottom sediments or aquatic life. Effects on aquatic organisms, wildlife, and human health will be considered.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) San Francisco Bay Basin (Region 2)
 
Evaluation Guideline: The modified OEHHA Fish Contaminant Goal for total DDT in shellfish tissue is 23 ppb. This screening level assumes an average body weight of 70 kg and a consumption rate of 21 g/day for a 30 year exposure over a 70-year lifetime. This constituent is a carcinogen therefore the risk level is set to one in a million. (Brodberg, R.K., and G.A. Pollock, 1999; Klasing, S., and R. Brodberg, 2008)
Guideline Reference: Prevalence of Selected Target Chemical Contaminants in Sport Fish From Two California Lakes: Public health designed screening study. Sacramento, CA: Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment
  Development of Fish Contaminant Goals and Advisory Tissue Levels for Common Contaminants in California Sport Fish: Chlordane, DDTs, Dieldrin, Methylmercury, PCBs, Selenium, and Toxaphene
 
Spatial Representation: Samples were collected at the following station: BD20 - San Pablo Bay, BD30 - Pinole Point, and BD40 Davis Point.
Temporal Representation: Samples were generally collected in spring and fall seasons from years 1994 - 1999 and then during most fall seasons during years 2000 - 2008.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances.
QAPP Information Reference(s): 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances
 
 
DECISION ID
33972
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
Pollutant: Dieldrin
Final Listing Decision: Do Not Delist from 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)(2012)
Revision Status Revised
Sources: Source Unknown
Expected TMDL Completion Date: 2013
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: This pollutant is being considered for removal from the CWA section 303(d) List under section 4.1 of the Listing Policy. Under this section a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status.

Five lines of evidence are available in the administrative record to assess pollutant. Fifty-three of Fifty-three samples exceed the guideline.

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

This conclusion is based on the staff findings that:
1. The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy.
2. The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy.
3. Fifty-three of Fifty-three samples exceed the guideline and this exceeds the allowable frequency listed in Table 4.1 of the Listing Policy.
4. Pursuant to section 4.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are met.
 
Regional Board Decision Recommendation: After review of the available data and information, RWQCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should not be removed from the section 303(d) list because applicable water quality standards for the pollutant are being exceeded.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 33972, Dieldrin
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 93654
 
Pollutant: Dieldrin
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Tissue
Matrix: Tissue
Fraction: Shellfish
 
Beneficial Use: Shellfish Harvesting
 
Number of Samples: 50
Number of Exceedances: 36
 
Data and Information Type: Shellfish surveys
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Thirty-six of the 50 samples exceeded the guideline. All composite samples were comprised of Crassostrea gigas or Mytilus californianus. Data were reported on a dry weight basis and were converted to a wet weight basis by multiplying the dry-weight concentration by a factor of 1 minus the percentage of moisture content expressed as a decimal. Three samples were not used in the assessment because the laboratory data reporting limit(s) were above the objective and therefore the results could not be quantified with the level of certainty required by the Listing Policy. Laboratory replicates were averaged.
Data Reference: Regional Monitoring Program data, Feb. 1993-Sep. 2008
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Francisco Bay Basin: Controllable water quality factors shall not cause a detrimental increase in concentrations of toxic substances found in bottom sediments or aquatic life. Effects on aquatic organisms, wildlife, and human health will be considered.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) San Francisco Bay Basin (Region 2)
 
Evaluation Guideline: The modified OEHHA Fish Contaminant Goal for dieldrin in shellfish tissue is 0.49 ppb. This screening level assumes an average body weight of 70 kg and a consumption rate of 21 g/day for a 30 year exposure over a 70-year lifetime. This constituent is a carcinogen therefore the risk level is set to one in a million. (Brodberg, R.K., and G.A. Pollock, 1999; Klasing, S., and R. Brodberg, 2008)
Guideline Reference: Prevalence of Selected Target Chemical Contaminants in Sport Fish From Two California Lakes: Public health designed screening study. Sacramento, CA: Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment
  Development of Fish Contaminant Goals and Advisory Tissue Levels for Common Contaminants in California Sport Fish: Chlordane, DDTs, Dieldrin, Methylmercury, PCBs, Selenium, and Toxaphene
 
Spatial Representation: Samples were collected at the following station: San Pablo Bay, BD30 - Pinole Point, and BD40 Davis Point.
Temporal Representation: Samples were generally collected in spring and fall seasons from years 1994 - 1999 and then during most fall seasons during years 2000 - 2008.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances.
QAPP Information Reference(s): 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 33972, Dieldrin
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 3861
 
Pollutant: Dieldrin
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Tissue
Matrix: Tissue
Fraction: Not Recorded
 
Beneficial Use: Commercial or recreational collection of fish, shellfish, or organisms
 
Number of Samples: 0
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: Not Specified
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Unspecified--This LOE is a placeholder to support a 303(d) listing decision made prior to 2006.
Data Reference: Placeholder reference pre-2006 303(d)
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Unspecified
Objective/Criterion Reference: Placeholder reference pre-2006 303(d)
 
Evaluation Guideline: Unspecified
Guideline Reference: Placeholder reference pre-2006 303(d)
 
Spatial Representation: Unspecified
Temporal Representation: Unspecified
Environmental Conditions: Unspecified
QAPP Information: Unspecified
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 33972, Dieldrin
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 95170
 
Pollutant: Dieldrin
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Tissue
Matrix: Tissue
Fraction: Fish fillet
 
Beneficial Use: Commercial or recreational collection of fish, shellfish, or organisms
 
Number of Samples: 36
Number of Exceedances: 36
 
Data and Information Type: Fish tissue analysis
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed Regional Monitoring Program data for San Pablo Bay to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 36 of 36 samples exceed the criterion for dieldrin. Thirty samples were discarded for being non-detect, unquantifiable or the reporting limit exceeding the water quality objective.
Data Reference: Regional Monitoring Program data, Feb. 1993-Sep. 2008
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Francisco Bay Basin: Controllable water quality factors shall not cause a detrimental increase in concentrations of toxic substances found in bottom sediments or aquatic life. Effects on aquatic organisms, wildlife, and human health will be considered.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) San Francisco Bay Basin (Region 2)
 
Evaluation Guideline: The modified OEHHA Fish Contaminant Goal for dieldrin in fish tissue is 0.32 ppb. This screening level assumes an average body weight of 70 kg and a consumption rate of 32 g/day for a 30 year exposure over a 70-year lifetime. This constituent is a carcinogen therefore the risk level is set to one in a million. A cooking reduction factor of 1 is applied for skin-off fillets. (Klasing, S., and R. Brodberg, 2008)
Guideline Reference: Development of Fish Contaminant Goals and Advisory Tissue Levels for Common Contaminants in California Sport Fish: Chlordane, DDTs, Dieldrin, Methylmercury, PCBs, Selenium, and Toxaphene
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at six sites throughout San Pablo Bay.
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected every three years from May 1994 through August 2006.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: The 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances was used.
QAPP Information Reference(s): 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 33972, Dieldrin
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 93151
 
Pollutant: Dieldrin
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Commercial or recreational collection of fish, shellfish, or organisms
 
Number of Samples: 85
Number of Exceedances: 5
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: State Water Board staff assessed SFEI data for San Pablo Bay to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 5 of 85 samples exceed the criterion for Dieldrin.
Data Reference: Regional Monitoring Program data, Feb. 1993-Sep. 2008
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Dieldrin criteria for the protection of human health from consumption of organisms only is 0.00014 ug/L (California Toxics Rule, 2000).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Code of Federal Regulations 40 part 131.38 Establishment of numeric criteria for priority toxic pollutants for the State of California. 7/1/2011 Edition
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for San Pablo Bay was collected at 26 monitoring sites [ Petaluma River - BD15, Pinole Point - BD30, Davis Point - BD40, San Pablo Bay - SPB001W, San Pablo Bay - SPB002W, San Pablo Bay - SPB003W, San Pablo Bay - SPB004W, San Pablo Bay - SPB005W, San Pablo Bay - SPB006W, San Pablo Bay - SPB007W, San Pablo Bay - SPB008W, San Pablo Bay - SPB009W, San Pablo Bay - SPB010W, San Pablo Bay - SPB011W, San Pablo Bay - SPB012W, San Pablo Bay - SPB013W, San Pablo Bay - SPB014W, San Pablo Bay - SPB015W, San Pablo Bay - SPB016W, San Pablo Bay - SPB017W, San Pablo Bay - SPB018W, San Pablo Bay - SPB019W, San Pablo Bay - SPB020W, San Pablo Bay - SPB021W, San Pablo Bay - SPB022W, San Pablo Bay - SPB023W]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 3/4/1993-8/9/2007.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: The 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances was used.
QAPP Information Reference(s): 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 33972, Dieldrin
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 93150
 
Pollutant: Dieldrin
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Estuarine Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 75
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: State Water Board staff assessed SFEI data for San Pablo Bay to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 75 samples exceed the criterion for Dieldrin.
Data Reference: Regional Monitoring Program data, Feb. 1993-Sep. 2008
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Dieldrin criterion continuous concentration (expressed as a 4-day average) to protect aquatic life in saline water is 0.0019 ug/L (California Toxics Rule, 2000).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Code of Federal Regulations 40 part 131.38 Establishment of numeric criteria for priority toxic pollutants for the State of California. 7/1/2011 Edition
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for San Pablo Bay was collected at 19 monitoring sites [ Davis Point - BD40, Petaluma River - BD15, Pinole Point - BD30, San Pablo Bay - SPB008W, San Pablo Bay - SPB014W, San Pablo Bay - SPB016W, San Pablo Bay - SPB005W, San Pablo Bay - SPB010W, San Pablo Bay - SPB002W, San Pablo Bay - SPB015W, San Pablo Bay - SPB007W, San Pablo Bay - SPB013W, San Pablo Bay - SPB006W, San Pablo Bay - SPB009W, San Pablo Bay - SPB011W, San Pablo Bay - SPB001W, San Pablo Bay - SPB003W, San Pablo Bay - SPB012W, San Pablo Bay - SPB004W]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 3/4/1993-8/11/2005.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: The 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances was used.
QAPP Information Reference(s): 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances
 
 
DECISION ID
35256
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
Pollutant: Mercury
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: Source Unknown
TMDL Name: San Francisco Bay Mercury
TMDL Project Code: 6
Date TMDL Approved by USEPA: 02/12/2008
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: This pollutant is being considered for removal on the CWA section 303(d) List under sections 2.2 and 4.1 of the Listing Policy. Under section 4.1 of the Policy, a minimum of one line of evidence is needed to assess listing status.

Three 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. Ninety-seven of one hundred forty-six samples exceeded the evaluation guideline and these exceed the allowable frequency listed in Table 4.1 of the Listing Policy.
4. The SF Bay Mercury TMDL was approved by USEPA on 2/12/2008.
5. Pursuant to section 4.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.
 
Regional Board Decision Recommendation: After review of the available data and information, RWQCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should not be removed from the section 303(d) list because applicable water quality standards for the pollutant are being exceeded.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 35256, Mercury
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 95181
 
Pollutant: Mercury
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Tissue
Matrix: Tissue
Fraction: Fish fillet
 
Beneficial Use: Commercial or recreational collection of fish, shellfish, or organisms
 
Number of Samples: 123
Number of Exceedances: 93
 
Data and Information Type: Fish tissue analysis
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed Regional Monitoring Program data for San Pablo Bay to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 93 of 123 samples exceed the criterion for mercury. No samples were discarded for being non-detect, unquantifiable or the reporting limit exceeding the water quality objective.
Data Reference: Regional Monitoring Program data, Feb. 1993-Sep. 2008
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Francisco Bay Basin: Controllable water quality factors shall not cause a detrimental increase in concentrations of toxic substances found in bottom sediments or aquatic life. Effects on aquatic organisms, wildlife, and human health will be considered.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) San Francisco Bay Basin (Region 2)
 
Evaluation Guideline: The Water Quality Control Plan for the San Francisco Bay Basin has a water quality objective in all parts of San Francisco Bay of 0.2 mg mercury per kg fish tissue for the protection of human health.
Guideline Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) San Francisco Bay Basin (Region 2)
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at six sites throughout San Pablo Bay.
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected every three years from May 1994 through October 2006.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: The 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances was used.
QAPP Information Reference(s): 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 35256, Mercury
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 3690
 
Pollutant: Mercury
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Tissue
Matrix: Tissue
Fraction: Not Recorded
 
Beneficial Use: Commercial or recreational collection of fish, shellfish, or organisms
 
Number of Samples: 0
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: Not Specified
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Unspecified--This LOE is a placeholder to support a 303(d) listing decision made prior to 2006.
Data Reference: Placeholder reference pre-2006 303(d)
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Unspecified
Objective/Criterion Reference: Placeholder reference pre-2006 303(d)
 
Evaluation Guideline: Unspecified
Guideline Reference: Placeholder reference pre-2006 303(d)
 
Spatial Representation: Unspecified
Temporal Representation: Unspecified
Environmental Conditions: Unspecified
QAPP Information: Unspecified
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 35256, Mercury
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 93704
 
Pollutant: Mercury
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Tissue
Matrix: Tissue
Fraction: Shellfish
 
Beneficial Use: Shellfish Harvesting
 
Number of Samples: 35
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: Shellfish surveys
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: None of the 35 samples exceeded the guideline. Composite samples were comprised of Crassostrea gigas or Mytilus californianus. Data were reported on a dry weight basis and were converted to a wet weight basis by multiplying the dry-weight concentration by a factor of 1 minus the percentage of moisture content expressed as a decimal. If a dry weight result did not have a corresponding moisture result for conversion to wet weight, the sample was not included in the assessment. Laboratory replicates were averaged.
Data Reference: Regional Monitoring Program data, Feb. 1993-Sep. 2008
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Francisco Bay Basin: Controllable water quality factors shall not cause a detrimental increase in concentrations of toxic substances found in bottom sediments or aquatic life. Effects on aquatic organisms, wildlife, and human health will be considered.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) San Francisco Bay Basin (Region 2)
 
Evaluation Guideline: The USEPA 304(a) recommended water quality criterion for concentrations of methylmercury in shellfish tissue (wet weight) is 0.20 ppm. (Brodberg, R.K., and G.A. Pollock, 1999; USEPA, 2001)
Guideline Reference: Prevalence of Selected Target Chemical Contaminants in Sport Fish From Two California Lakes: Public health designed screening study. Sacramento, CA: Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment
  Water Quality Criterion for the Protection of Human Health: Methylmercury. Final. United States Environmental Protection Agency Office of Science and Technology Office of Water. EPA-823-R-01-001. January 2001
 
Spatial Representation: Samples were collected at the following stations: BD20 - San Pablo Bay, BD30 - Pinole Point, and BD40 - Davis Point.
Temporal Representation: Samples were generally collected in spring and fall seasons from years 1993 - 1999.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances.
QAPP Information Reference(s): 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances
 
 
DECISION ID
33888
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
Pollutant: PCBs (Polychlorinated biphenyls)
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 (TMDL required list)(2012)
Revision Status Revised
Sources: Source Unknown
TMDL Name: San Francisco Bay PCBs
TMDL Project Code: 7
Date TMDL Approved by USEPA: 03/29/2010
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: This pollutant is being considered for removal on the CWA section 303(d) List under sections 2.2 and 4.1 of the Listing Policy. Under section 4.1 of the Policy, a minimum of one line of evidence is needed to assess listing status.

Five 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. Seventy-three of eighty-five samples exceeded the evaluation guideline and these exceed the allowable frequency listed in Table 4.1 of the Listing Policy.
4. The SF Bay PCBs TMDL was approved by USEPA on 3/29/2010.
5. Pursuant to section 4.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.
 
Regional Board Decision Recommendation: After review of the available data and information, RWQCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should not be removed from the section 303(d) list because applicable water quality standards for the pollutant are being exceeded.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 33888, PCBs (Polychlorinated biphenyls)
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 93670
 
Pollutant: PCBs (Polychlorinated biphenyls)
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Tissue
Matrix: Tissue
Fraction: Shellfish
 
Beneficial Use: Shellfish Harvesting
 
Number of Samples: 52
Number of Exceedances: 48
 
Data and Information Type: Shellfish surveys
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Fourty-eight of the 52 samples exceeded the guideline. Composite samples were comprised of Corbicula fluminea, Crassostrea gigas, or Mytilus californianus. Data were reported on a dry weight basis and were converted to a wet weight basis by multiplying the dry-weight concentration by a factor of 1 minus the percentage of moisture content expressed as a decimal. Laboratory replicates were averaged. Total PCB was assessed for as follows: PCB aroclors and congeners were summed separately and the sum that yielded the highest value was used for the assessment. The result for Station BD40 collected on 9/1/1998 was not a valid sample and so was not used in the assessment.
Data Reference: Regional Monitoring Program data, Feb. 1993-Sep. 2008
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Francisco Bay Basin (2013): Controllable water quality factors shall not cause a detrimental increase in concentrations of toxic substances found in bottom sediments or aquatic life. Effects on aquatic organisms, wildlife, and human health will be considered.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) San Francisco Bay Basin (Region 2)
 
Evaluation Guideline: The modified OEHHA Fish Contaminant Goal for polychlorinated biphenyls in shellfish tissue is 3.9 ppb. This screening level assumes an average body weight of 70 kg and a consumption rate of 21 g/day for a 30 year exposure over a 70-year lifetime. This constituent is a carcinogen therefore the risk level is set to one in a million. (Brodberg, R.K., and G.A. Pollock, 1999; Klasing, S., and R. Brodberg, 2008)
Guideline Reference: Prevalence of Selected Target Chemical Contaminants in Sport Fish From Two California Lakes: Public health designed screening study. Sacramento, CA: Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment
  Development of Fish Contaminant Goals and Advisory Tissue Levels for Common Contaminants in California Sport Fish: Chlordane, DDTs, Dieldrin, Methylmercury, PCBs, Selenium, and Toxaphene
 
Spatial Representation: Samples were collected at the following stations: BD20 - San Pablo Bay, BD30 - Pinole Point, and BD40 - Davis Point.
Temporal Representation: Samples were generally collected in spring and fall seasons from years 1993 - 1999 and then during fall season from years 2000 - 2008.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances.
QAPP Information Reference(s): 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 33888, PCBs (Polychlorinated biphenyls)
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 93183
 
Pollutant: PCBs (Polychlorinated biphenyls)
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Commercial or recreational collection of fish, shellfish, or organisms
 
Number of Samples: 85
Number of Exceedances: 73
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: State Water Board staff assessed SFEI data for San Pablo Bay to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 73 of 85 samples exceed the criterion for PCB, Total.
Data Reference: Regional Monitoring Program data, Feb. 1993-Sep. 2008
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Polychlorinated Biphenyls criteria for the protection of human health from consumption of organisms only is 0.00017 ug/L (California Toxics Rule, 2000).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Code of Federal Regulations 40 part 131.38 Establishment of numeric criteria for priority toxic pollutants for the State of California. 7/1/2011 Edition
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for San Pablo Bay was collected at 26 monitoring sites [ Petaluma River - BD15, Pinole Point - BD30, Davis Point - BD40, San Pablo Bay - SPB001W, San Pablo Bay - SPB002W, San Pablo Bay - SPB003W, San Pablo Bay - SPB004W, San Pablo Bay - SPB005W, San Pablo Bay - SPB006W, San Pablo Bay - SPB007W, San Pablo Bay - SPB008W, San Pablo Bay - SPB009W, San Pablo Bay - SPB010W, San Pablo Bay - SPB011W, San Pablo Bay - SPB012W, San Pablo Bay - SPB013W, San Pablo Bay - SPB014W, San Pablo Bay - SPB015W, San Pablo Bay - SPB016W, San Pablo Bay - SPB017W, San Pablo Bay - SPB018W, San Pablo Bay - SPB019W, San Pablo Bay - SPB020W, San Pablo Bay - SPB021W, San Pablo Bay - SPB022W, San Pablo Bay - SPB023W]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 3/4/1993-8/9/2007.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: The 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances was used.
QAPP Information Reference(s): 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 33888, PCBs (Polychlorinated biphenyls)
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 93182
 
Pollutant: PCBs (Polychlorinated biphenyls)
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Estuarine Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 75
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: State Water Board staff assessed SFEI data for San Pablo Bay to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 75 samples exceed the criterion for PCB, Total.
Data Reference: Regional Monitoring Program data, Feb. 1993-Sep. 2008
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The PCB, Total criterion continuous concentration (expressed as a 4-day average) to protect aquatic life in saltwater is 0.03 ug/L (California Toxics Rule, 2000).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Code of Federal Regulations 40 part 131.38 Establishment of numeric criteria for priority toxic pollutants for the State of California. 7/1/2011 Edition
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for San Pablo Bay was collected at 19 monitoring sites [ Davis Point - BD40, Petaluma River - BD15, Pinole Point - BD30, San Pablo Bay - SPB008W, San Pablo Bay - SPB014W, San Pablo Bay - SPB016W, San Pablo Bay - SPB005W, San Pablo Bay - SPB010W, San Pablo Bay - SPB002W, San Pablo Bay - SPB015W, San Pablo Bay - SPB007W, San Pablo Bay - SPB013W, San Pablo Bay - SPB006W, San Pablo Bay - SPB009W, San Pablo Bay - SPB011W, San Pablo Bay - SPB001W, San Pablo Bay - SPB003W, San Pablo Bay - SPB012W, San Pablo Bay - SPB004W]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 3/4/1993-8/11/2005.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: The 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances was used.
QAPP Information Reference(s): 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 33888, PCBs (Polychlorinated biphenyls)
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 3692
 
Pollutant: PCBs (Polychlorinated biphenyls)
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Tissue
Matrix: Tissue
Fraction: Not Recorded
 
Beneficial Use: Commercial or recreational collection of fish, shellfish, or organisms
 
Number of Samples: 0
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: Not Specified
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Unspecified--This LOE is a placeholder to support a 303(d) listing decision made prior to 2006.
Data Reference: Placeholder reference pre-2006 303(d)
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Unspecified
Objective/Criterion Reference: Placeholder reference pre-2006 303(d)
 
Evaluation Guideline: Unspecified
Guideline Reference: Placeholder reference pre-2006 303(d)
 
Spatial Representation: Unspecified
Temporal Representation: Unspecified
Environmental Conditions: Unspecified
QAPP Information: Unspecified
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 33888, PCBs (Polychlorinated biphenyls)
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 95187
 
Pollutant: PCBs (Polychlorinated biphenyls)
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Tissue
Matrix: Tissue
Fraction: Fish fillet
 
Beneficial Use: Commercial or recreational collection of fish, shellfish, or organisms
 
Number of Samples: 72
Number of Exceedances: 10
 
Data and Information Type: Fish tissue analysis
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed Regional Monitoring Program data for San Pablo Bay to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 10 of 72 samples exceed the criterion for PCBs. No samples were discarded for being non-detect, unquantifiable or the reporting limit exceeding the water quality objective.
Data Reference: Regional Monitoring Program data, Feb. 1993-Sep. 2008
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Francisco Bay Basin: Controllable water quality factors shall not cause a detrimental increase in concentrations of toxic substances found in bottom sediments or aquatic life. Effects on aquatic organisms, wildlife, and human health will be considered.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) San Francisco Bay Basin (Region 2)
 
Evaluation Guideline: The modified OEHHA Fish Contaminant Goal for polychlorinated biphenyls in fish tissue is 2.6 ppb. This screening level assumes an average body weight of 70 kg and a consumption rate of 32 g/day for a 30 year exposure over a 70-year lifetime. This constituent is a carcinogen therefore the risk level is set to one in a million. A cooking reduction factor of 1 is applied for skin-off fillets. (Klasing, S., and R. Brodberg, 2008)
Guideline Reference: Development of Fish Contaminant Goals and Advisory Tissue Levels for Common Contaminants in California Sport Fish: Chlordane, DDTs, Dieldrin, Methylmercury, PCBs, Selenium, and Toxaphene
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at six sites throughout San Pablo Bay.
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected every three years from May 1994 through October 2006.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: The 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances was used.
QAPP Information Reference(s): 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances
 
 
DECISION ID
34138
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
Pollutant: Selenium
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 (TMDL required list)(2012)
Revision Status Revised
Sources: Source Unknown
TMDL Name: San Francisco Bay Selenium - North Bay
TMDL Project Code: 540
Date TMDL Approved by USEPA: 01/01/2016
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: This pollutant is being considered for removal on the CWA section 303(d) List under sections 2.2 and section 4.1 of the Listing Policy. Under section 4.1 of the Policy, a minimum of one line of evidence is needed to assess listing status.

Four 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. Impairment should be based on protection of aquatic life beneficial uses and the existing aquatic life value referenced in the CTR is not sufficiently protective of sensitive fish species. Numeric targets to protect aquatic life are included in the North SF Bay Selenium TMDL and this listing will be reevaluated in accordance with the TMDL
4. The North SF Bay Selenium TMDL was approved by USEPA on 8/23/2016.

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 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. Impairment should be based on protection of aquatic life beneficial uses and the existing aquatic life value referenced in the CTR is not sufficiently protective of sensitive fish species. Numeric targets to protect aquatic life are included in the North SF Bay Selenium TMDL and this listing will be reevaluated in accordance with the TMDL
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 34138, Selenium
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 93185
 
Pollutant: Selenium
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Estuarine Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 94
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: State Water Board staff assessed SFEI data for San Pablo Bay to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 94 samples exceed the criterion for Selenium.
Data Reference: Regional Monitoring Program data, Feb. 1993-Sep. 2008
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The dissolved selenium criterion continuous concentration (expressed as a 4-day average) to protect aquatic life in saline water is 5 ug/L (California Toxics Rule, 2000).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Code of Federal Regulations 40 part 131.38 Establishment of numeric criteria for priority toxic pollutants for the State of California. 7/1/2011 Edition
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for San Pablo Bay was collected at 29 monitoring sites [ Petaluma River - BD15, Pinole Point - BD30, Davis Point - BD40, San Pablo Bay - SPB001W, San Pablo Bay - SPB002W, San Pablo Bay - SPB003W, San Pablo Bay - SPB004W, San Pablo Bay - SPB005W, San Pablo Bay - SPB006W, San Pablo Bay - SPB007W, San Pablo Bay - SPB008W, San Pablo Bay - SPB009W, San Pablo Bay - SPB010W, San Pablo Bay - SPB011W, San Pablo Bay - SPB012W, San Pablo Bay - SPB013W, San Pablo Bay - SPB014W, San Pablo Bay - SPB015W, San Pablo Bay - SPB016W, San Pablo Bay - SPB017W, San Pablo Bay - SPB018W, San Pablo Bay - SPB019W, San Pablo Bay - SPB020W, San Pablo Bay - SPB021W, San Pablo Bay - SPB022W, San Pablo Bay - SPB023W, San Pablo Bay - SPB024W, San Pablo Bay - SPB025W, San Pablo Bay - SPB026W]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 3/4/1993-7/14/2008.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: The 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances was used.
QAPP Information Reference(s): 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 34138, Selenium
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 93705
 
Pollutant: Selenium
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Tissue
Matrix: Tissue
Fraction: Shellfish
 
Beneficial Use: Shellfish Harvesting
 
Number of Samples: 44
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: Shellfish surveys
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: None of the 44 samples exceeded the guideline. Composite samples were comprised of Crassostrea gigas or Mytilus californianus. Data were reported on a dry weight basis and were converted to a wet weight basis by multiplying the dry-weight concentration by a factor of 1 minus the percentage of moisture content expressed as a decimal. If a dry weight result did not have a corresponding moisture result for conversion to wet weight, the sample was not included in the assessment. Laboratory replicates were averaged.
Data Reference: Regional Monitoring Program data, Feb. 1993-Sep. 2008
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Francisco Bay Basin: Controllable water quality factors shall not cause a detrimental increase in concentrations of toxic substances found in bottom sediments or aquatic life. Effects on aquatic organisms, wildlife, and human health will be considered.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) San Francisco Bay Basin (Region 2)
 
Evaluation Guideline: The modified OEHHA Fish Contaminant Goal for selenium in shellfish tissue is 11 ppm. This screening level assumes an average body weight of 70 kg and a consumption rate of 21 g/day. A background dietary consumption rate of 0.114 mg/day is applied for this micronutrient. (Brodberg, R.K., and G.A. Pollock, 1999; Klasing, S., and R. Brodberg, 2008)
Guideline Reference: Prevalence of Selected Target Chemical Contaminants in Sport Fish From Two California Lakes: Public health designed screening study. Sacramento, CA: Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment
  Development of Fish Contaminant Goals and Advisory Tissue Levels for Common Contaminants in California Sport Fish: Chlordane, DDTs, Dieldrin, Methylmercury, PCBs, Selenium, and Toxaphene
 
Spatial Representation: Samples were collected at the following stations: BD20 - San Pablo Bay, BD30 - Pinole Point, and BD40 - Davis Point.
Temporal Representation: Samples were generally collected in spring and fall seasons from years 1993 - 1999 and then fall 2000, 2001, and 2008.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances.
QAPP Information Reference(s): 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 34138, Selenium
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 3694
 
Pollutant: Selenium
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Not Recorded
 
Beneficial Use: Estuarine Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 0
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: Not Specified
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Unspecified--This LOE is a placeholder to support a 303(d) listing decision made prior to 2006.
Data Reference: Placeholder reference pre-2006 303(d)
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Unspecified
Objective/Criterion Reference: Placeholder reference pre-2006 303(d)
 
Evaluation Guideline: Unspecified
Guideline Reference: Placeholder reference pre-2006 303(d)
 
Spatial Representation: Unspecified
Temporal Representation: Unspecified
Environmental Conditions: Unspecified
QAPP Information: Unspecified
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 34138, Selenium
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 95117
 
Pollutant: Selenium
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Tissue
Matrix: Tissue
Fraction: Fish fillet
 
Beneficial Use: Commercial or recreational collection of fish, shellfish, or organisms
 
Number of Samples: 25
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: Fish tissue analysis
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed Regional Monitoring Program data for San Pablo Bay to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 25 samples exceed the criterion for selenium. No samples were discarded for being non-detect, unquantifiable or the reporting limit exceeding the water quality objective.
Data Reference: Regional Monitoring Program data, Feb. 1993-Sep. 2008
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Francisco Bay Basin: Controllable water quality factors shall not cause a detrimental increase in concentrations of toxic substances found in bottom sediments or aquatic life. Effects on aquatic organisms, wildlife, and human health will be considered.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) San Francisco Bay Basin (Region 2)
 
Evaluation Guideline: The OEHHA Fish Contaminant Goal for selenium in fish tissue is 7.4 ppm. This screening level assumes an average body weight of 70 kg and a consumption rate of 32 g/day. A background dietary consumption rate of 0.114 mg/day is applied for this micronutrient. (Klasing, S., and R. Brodberg, 2008)
Guideline Reference: Development of Fish Contaminant Goals and Advisory Tissue Levels for Common Contaminants in California Sport Fish: Chlordane, DDTs, Dieldrin, Methylmercury, PCBs, Selenium, and Toxaphene
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at five sites throughout San Pablo Bay.
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected every three years from May 1994 through August 2006.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: The 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances was used.
QAPP Information Reference(s): 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances
 
 
DECISION ID
66032
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
Pollutant: Acenaphthene
Final Listing Decision: Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: New Decision
Revision Status Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: This pollutant is being considered for placement on the CWA section 303(d) List under section 3.1 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.

Zero of the 52 samples exceed the criteria for the protection saltwater aquatic life
Zero of the 53 samples exceed the objective for the protection of human health from consumption of organisms only.

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

1. The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy.
2. The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy.
3. Zero of the 52 samples exceed the criteria for the protection saltwater aquatic life and zero of the 53 samples exceed the objective for the protection of human health from consumption of organisms only and this does not exceed the allowable frequency listed in Table 3.1 of the Listing Policy. 4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.
 
Regional Board Decision Recommendation: After review of the available data and information, RWQCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should not be placed on the section 303(d) list because applicable water quality standards are not being exceeded.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 66032, Acenaphthene
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 93126
 
Pollutant: Acenaphthene
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Estuarine Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 52
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: State Water Board staff assessed SFEI data for San Pablo Bay to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 52 samples exceed the criterion for Acenaphthene.
Data Reference: Regional Monitoring Program data, Feb. 1993-Sep. 2008
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: No individual pesticide or combination of pesticides shall be present in concentrations that adversely affect beneficial uses.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) San Francisco Bay Basin (Region 2)
 
Evaluation Guideline: The available data for acenaphthene indicate that chronic toxicity to saltwater aquatic life occurs at concentrations as low as 710 ug/Land would occur at lower concentrations among species that are more sensitive than those tested. (USEPA Gold Book - EPA 440/5-86-001)
Guideline Reference: Quality Criteria for Water 1986. United States Environmental Protection Agency. Office of Water. Regulations and Standards. Washington D.C. EPA 440/5-86-001.
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for San Pablo Bay was collected at 19 monitoring sites [ Davis Point - BD40, Petaluma River - BD15, Pinole Point - BD30, San Pablo Bay - SPB008W, San Pablo Bay - SPB014W, San Pablo Bay - SPB016W, San Pablo Bay - SPB005W, San Pablo Bay - SPB010W, San Pablo Bay - SPB002W, San Pablo Bay - SPB015W, San Pablo Bay - SPB007W, San Pablo Bay - SPB013W, San Pablo Bay - SPB006W, San Pablo Bay - SPB009W, San Pablo Bay - SPB011W, San Pablo Bay - SPB001W, San Pablo Bay - SPB003W, San Pablo Bay - SPB012W, San Pablo Bay - SPB004W]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 2/12/1996-8/11/2005.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: The 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances was used.
QAPP Information Reference(s): 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 66032, Acenaphthene
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 93127
 
Pollutant: Acenaphthene
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Commercial or recreational collection of fish, shellfish, or organisms
 
Number of Samples: 53
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: State Water Board staff assessed SFEI data for San Pablo Bay to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 53 samples exceed the criterion for Acenaphthene.
Data Reference: Regional Monitoring Program data, Feb. 1993-Sep. 2008
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Acenaphthene criteria for the protection of human health from consumption of organisms only is 2,700 ug/L (California Toxics Rule, 2000).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Code of Federal Regulations 40 part 131.38 Establishment of numeric criteria for priority toxic pollutants for the State of California. 7/1/2011 Edition
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for San Pablo Bay was collected at 20 monitoring sites [ Petaluma River - BD15, Pinole Point - BD30, Davis Point - BD40, San Pablo Bay - SPB001W, San Pablo Bay - SPB002W, San Pablo Bay - SPB003W, San Pablo Bay - SPB004W, San Pablo Bay - SPB005W, San Pablo Bay - SPB006W, San Pablo Bay - SPB007W, San Pablo Bay - SPB008W, San Pablo Bay - SPB012W, San Pablo Bay - SPB017W, San Pablo Bay - SPB020W, San Pablo Bay - SPB021W, San Pablo Bay - SPB022W, San Pablo Bay - SPB023W, San Pablo Bay - SPB024W, San Pablo Bay - SPB025W, San Pablo Bay - SPB026W]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 2/12/1996-7/14/2008.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: The 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances was used.
QAPP Information Reference(s): 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances
 
 
DECISION ID
66050
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
Pollutant: Aldrin
Final Listing Decision: Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: New Decision
Revision Status Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: This pollutant is being considered for placement on the CWA section 303(d) List under section 3.1 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.1 a one line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status. Two lines of evidence are available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant.

Zero of the five samples exceed the objective to protect aquatic life in saline water.
Zero of the three samples exceed the objective for the protection of human health from consumption of organisms only

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

1. The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy.
2. The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy.
3. Zero of the five samples exceed the objective to protect aquatic life in saline water and zero of the three samples exceed the objective for the protection of human health from consumption of organisms only and this sample size is insufficient to determine, with the power and confidence of the Listing Policy, the applicable beneficial use support rating. A minimum of 16 samples is needed to determine if a beneficial use is fully supported using table 3.1. 4. Pursuant to 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.
 
Regional Board Decision Recommendation: After review of the available data and information, RWQCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should not be placed on the section 303(d) list. The readily available data and information is insufficient to determine, with the power and confidence of the Listing Policy, the applicable beneficial use support rating.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 66050, Aldrin
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 93129
 
Pollutant: Aldrin
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Commercial or recreational collection of fish, shellfish, or organisms
 
Number of Samples: 3
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: State Water Board staff assessed SFEI data for San Pablo Bay to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 3 samples exceed the criterion for Aldrin.
Data Reference: Regional Monitoring Program data, Feb. 1993-Sep. 2008
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Aldrin criteria for the protection of human health from consumption of organisms only is 0.00014 ug/L (California Toxics Rule, 2000).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Code of Federal Regulations 40 part 131.38 Establishment of numeric criteria for priority toxic pollutants for the State of California. 7/1/2011 Edition
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for San Pablo Bay was collected at 3 monitoring sites [ San Pablo Bay - SPB009W, San Pablo Bay - SPB010W, San Pablo Bay - SPB011W]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected on a single day 7/21/2004.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: The 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances was used.
QAPP Information Reference(s): 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 66050, Aldrin
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 93128
 
Pollutant: Aldrin
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Estuarine Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 5
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: State Water Board staff assessed SFEI data for San Pablo Bay to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 5 samples exceed the criterion for Aldrin.
Data Reference: Regional Monitoring Program data, Feb. 1993-Sep. 2008
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The aldrin criterion maximum concentration to protect aquatic life in saline water is 1.3 ug/L (California Toxics Rule, 2000).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Code of Federal Regulations 40 part 131.38 Establishment of numeric criteria for priority toxic pollutants for the State of California. 7/1/2011 Edition
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for San Pablo Bay was collected at 5 monitoring sites [ San Pablo Bay - SPB005W, San Pablo Bay - SPB010W, San Pablo Bay - SPB009W, San Pablo Bay - SPB011W, San Pablo Bay - SPB012W]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 8/13/2003-7/21/2004.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: The 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances was used.
QAPP Information Reference(s): 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances
 
 
DECISION ID
66034
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
Pollutant: Ammonia (Unionized)
Final Listing Decision: Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: New Decision
Revision Status Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: This pollutant is being considered for placement on the CWA section 303(d) List under section 3.1 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.1 a one line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status. One line of evidence is available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. Zero of the ten samples exceed the OBJECTIVE.

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

1. The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy.
2. The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy.
3. Zero of the ten samples exceeded the OBJECTIVE and this sample size is insufficient to determine, with the power and confidence of the Listing Policy, the applicable beneficial use support rating. A minimum of 16 samples is needed to determine if a beneficial use is fully supported using table 3.1. 4. Pursuant to 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.
 
Regional Board Decision Recommendation: After review of the available data and information, RWQCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should not be placed on the section 303(d) list. The readily available data and information is insufficient to determine, with the power and confidence of the Listing Policy, the applicable beneficial use support rating.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 66034, Ammonia (Unionized)
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 93181
 
Pollutant: Ammonia (Unionized)
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Estuarine Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 10
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: Fixed station physical/chemical (conventional plus toxic pollutants)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: None of 10 annual medians exceeded the objective for un-ionized ammonia. The total ammonia nitrogen data were converted to un-ionized ammonia using pH and temperature data and an assumed salinity of 10 parts per thousand. Ammonia samples that did not have corresponding pH and temperature data were not used to calculate medians.
Data Reference: Data for Nutrients in Region 5, Jan. 1975 - Jan. 2007.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The San Francisco Bay Regional Water Quality Board Basin Plan states that the discharge of wastes shall not cause receiving water to contain concentrations of un-ionized ammonia in excess of an annual median of 0.025 mg/l as N.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) - San Francisco Bay Region (Region 2)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Samples were collected at stations D41 San Pablo Bay near Pinole Point and D41A San Pablo Bay near Mouth of Petaluma River.
Temporal Representation: Ammonia data were collected from 1980 to 2010. Corresponding pH and temperature data were available to convert total ammonia to un-ionized ammonia were available from 1980 to 1995 at D41 and from 2009 to 2010 for both D41 and D41A.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Samples were collected as part of a long term monitoring of water quality. No other descriptions of the study were provided.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
 
DECISION ID
66035
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
Pollutant: Anthracene
Final Listing Decision: Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: New Decision
Revision Status Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: This pollutant is being considered for placement on the CWA section 303(d) List under section 3.1 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.1 a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status.

One lines of evidence are available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. Zero of the 68 samples exceed the OBJECTIVE.

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

This conclusion is based on the staff findings that:
1. The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy.
2. The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy.
3. Zero of 68 samples exceeded the OBJECTIVE and this does not exceed the allowable frequency listed in Table 3.1 of the Listing Policy.
4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.
 
Regional Board Decision Recommendation: After review of the available data and information, RWQCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should not be placed on the section 303(d) list because applicable water quality standards are not being exceeded.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 66035, Anthracene
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 93131
 
Pollutant: Anthracene
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Commercial or recreational collection of fish, shellfish, or organisms
 
Number of Samples: 68
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: State Water Board staff assessed SFEI data for San Pablo Bay to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 68 samples exceed the criterion for Anthracene.
Data Reference: Regional Monitoring Program data, Feb. 1993-Sep. 2008
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Anthracene criteria for the protection of human health from consumption of organisms only is 110,000 ug/L (California Toxics Rule, 2000).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) San Francisco Bay Basin (Region 2)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
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: Data for this line of evidence for San Pablo Bay was collected at 18 monitoring sites [ Petaluma River - BD15, Pinole Point - BD30, Davis Point - BD40, San Pablo Bay - SPB001W, San Pablo Bay - SPB002W, San Pablo Bay - SPB003W, San Pablo Bay - SPB004W, San Pablo Bay - SPB009W, San Pablo Bay - SPB017W, San Pablo Bay - SPB018W, San Pablo Bay - SPB019W, San Pablo Bay - SPB020W, San Pablo Bay - SPB021W, San Pablo Bay - SPB022W, San Pablo Bay - SPB023W, San Pablo Bay - SPB024W, San Pablo Bay - SPB025W, San Pablo Bay - SPB026W]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 3/4/1993-7/14/2008.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: The 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances was used.
QAPP Information Reference(s): 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances
 
 
DECISION ID
66832
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
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 Conclusion: This pollutant is being considered for placement on the CWA section 303(d) List under section 3.1 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.1 a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status.

Four lines of evidence are available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. Zero of ninety-seven samples exceed the guideline.

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

This conclusion is based on the staff findings that:
1. The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy.
2. The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy.
3. Zero of ninety-seven samples exceed 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 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 66832, Arsenic
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 93133
 
Pollutant: Arsenic
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Estuarine Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 94
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: State Water Board staff assessed SFEI data for San Pablo Bay to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 94 samples exceed the criterion for Arsenic.
Data Reference: Regional Monitoring Program data, Feb. 1993-Sep. 2008
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The dissolved arsenic criterion continuous concentration (expressed as a 4-day average) to protect aquatic life in saline water is 0.036 mg/L (California Toxics Rule, 2000).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) San Francisco Bay Basin (Region 2)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference: National Recommended Water Quality Criteria. United States Environmental Protection Agency. Office of Water. Office of Science and Technology
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for San Pablo Bay was collected at 29 monitoring sites [ Davis Point - BD40, Petaluma River - BD15, Pinole Point - BD30, San Pablo Bay - SPB008W, San Pablo Bay - SPB014W, San Pablo Bay - SPB018W, San Pablo Bay - SPB016W, San Pablo Bay - SPB005W, San Pablo Bay - SPB020W, San Pablo Bay - SPB017W, San Pablo Bay - SPB010W, San Pablo Bay - SPB002W, San Pablo Bay - SPB015W, San Pablo Bay - SPB007W, San Pablo Bay - SPB013W, San Pablo Bay - SPB006W, San Pablo Bay - SPB019W, San Pablo Bay - SPB009W, San Pablo Bay - SPB011W, San Pablo Bay - SPB001W, San Pablo Bay - SPB023W, San Pablo Bay - SPB003W, San Pablo Bay - SPB012W, San Pablo Bay - SPB022W, San Pablo Bay - SPB004W, San Pablo Bay - SPB025W, San Pablo Bay - SPB021W, San Pablo Bay - SPB026W, San Pablo Bay - SPB024W]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 3/4/1993-7/14/2008.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: The 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances was used.
QAPP Information Reference(s): 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 66832, Arsenic
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 93132
 
Pollutant: Arsenic
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Commercial or recreational collection of fish, shellfish, or organisms
 
Number of Samples: 97
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: State Water Board staff assessed SFEI data for San Pablo Bay to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 97 samples exceed the criterion for Arsenic.
Data Reference: Regional Monitoring Program data, Feb. 1993-Sep. 2008
 
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 (Basin Plan) San Francisco Bay Basin (Region 2)
 
Evaluation Guideline: The Arsenic criteria for the protection of human health from consumption of organisms only is 0.14 ug/L (National Recommended Water Quality Criteria, 2009).
Guideline Reference: National Recommended Water Quality Criteria. United States Environmental Protection Agency. Office of Water. Office of Science and Technology
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for San Pablo Bay was collected at 28 monitoring sites [ Petaluma River - BD15, Pinole Point - BD30, Davis Point - BD40, San Pablo Bay - SPB001W, San Pablo Bay - SPB002W, San Pablo Bay - SPB003W, San Pablo Bay - SPB004W, San Pablo Bay - SPB005W, San Pablo Bay - SPB007W, San Pablo Bay - SPB008W, San Pablo Bay - SPB009W, San Pablo Bay - SPB010W, San Pablo Bay - SPB011W, San Pablo Bay - SPB012W, San Pablo Bay - SPB013W, San Pablo Bay - SPB014W, San Pablo Bay - SPB015W, San Pablo Bay - SPB016W, San Pablo Bay - SPB017W, San Pablo Bay - SPB018W, San Pablo Bay - SPB019W, San Pablo Bay - SPB020W, San Pablo Bay - SPB021W, San Pablo Bay - SPB022W, San Pablo Bay - SPB023W, San Pablo Bay - SPB024W, San Pablo Bay - SPB025W, San Pablo Bay - SPB026W]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 3/4/1993-7/14/2008.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: The 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances was used.
QAPP Information Reference(s): 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 66832, Arsenic
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 93702
 
Pollutant: Arsenic
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Tissue
Matrix: Tissue
Fraction: Shellfish
 
Beneficial Use: Shellfish Harvesting
 
Number of Samples: 37
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: Shellfish surveys
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: 0 of the 37 samples exceeded the guideline. Composite samples were comprised of Crassostrea gigas or Mytilus californianus. Data were reported on a dry weight basis and were converted to a wet weight basis by multiplying the dry-weight concentration by a factor of 1 minus the percentage of moisture content expressed as a decimal. Laboratory replicates were averaged. If a dry weight result did not have a corresponding moisture result for conversion to wet weight, the sample was not included in the assessment. The fraction of total arsenic in inorganic form was taken to be 0.115%, which was the maximum fraction of inorganic arsenic found in shellfish tissue from SF Bay. This number was screened against the guideline.
Data Reference: Regional Monitoring Program data, Feb. 1993-Sep. 2008
  Contaminant Concentrations in Fish from San Francisco Bay, 2000
  Calculating Fraction of Inorganic Arsenic in SF Bay Fish and Shellfish
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Francisco Bay Basin: Controllable water quality factors shall not cause a detrimental increase in concentrations of toxic substances found in bottom sediments or aquatic life. Effects on aquatic organisms, wildlife, and human health will be considered.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) San Francisco Bay Basin (Region 2)
 
Evaluation Guideline: The modified OEHHA Advisory Tissue Level for arsenic in shellfish tissue is 0.52 ppm. This screening level assumes an average body weight of 70 kg and a consumption rate of 21 g/day for a 30 year exposure over a 70-year lifetime. This constituent is a carcinogen therefore the risk level is set to one in ten thousand. (Brodberg, R.K., and G.A. Pollock, 1999; Klasing, S., and R. Brodberg, 2008; OEHHA, 2004)

Advisory Tissue Levels (ATLs), while still conferring no significant health risk to
individuals consuming sport fish in the quantities shown over a lifetime, were developed
with the recognition that there are unique health benefits associated with fish
consumption and that the advisory process should be expanded beyond a simple risk
paradigm in order to best promote the overall health of the fish consumer. ATLs provide
a number of recommended fish servings that correspond to the range of contaminant
concentrations found in fish and are used to provide consumption advice to prevent
consumers from being exposed to more than the average daily reference dose for noncarcinogens
or to a risk level greater than 1x10-4 for carcinogens (not more than one
additional cancer case in a population of 10,000 people consuming fish at the given
consumption rate over a lifetime). ATLs are designed to encourage consumption of fish
that can be eaten in quantities likely to provide significant health benefits, while
discouraging consumption of fish that, because of contaminant concentrations, should not
be eaten or cannot be eaten in amounts recommended for improving overall health (eight
ounces total, prior to cooking, per week). ATLs are one of the criteria that will be used
by OEHHA for issuing fish consumption guidelines.
Guideline Reference: Prevalence of Selected Target Chemical Contaminants in Sport Fish From Two California Lakes: Public health designed screening study. Sacramento, CA: Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment
  Development of Fish Contaminant Goals and Advisory Tissue Levels for Common Contaminants in California Sport Fish: Chlordane, DDTs, Dieldrin, Methylmercury, PCBs, Selenium, and Toxaphene
  Air Toxics Hotspots Program Risk Assessment Guidelines. Part ll Technical Support Document for Describing Available Cancer Potency Values.
 
Spatial Representation: Samples were collected at the following stations: BD20 - San Pablo Bay, BD30 - Pinole Point, and BD40 - Davis Point.
Temporal Representation: Samples were generally collected in spring and fall seasons from years 1993 - 1999 and then during fall 2008.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances.
QAPP Information Reference(s): 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 66832, Arsenic
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 95218
 
Pollutant: Arsenic
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Tissue
Matrix: Tissue
Fraction: Fish fillet
 
Beneficial Use: Commercial or recreational collection of fish, shellfish, or organisms
 
Number of Samples: 7
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: Fish tissue analysis
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed Regional Monitoring Program data for San Pablo Bay to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 7 samples exceed the criterion for Arsenic. The fraction of total arsenic in inorganic form was taken to be 3.2%, which was the maximum fraction of inorganic arsenic found in shark tissue from SF Bay. No samples were discarded for being non-detect, unquantifiable or the reporting limit exceeding the water quality objective.
Data Reference: Regional Monitoring Program data, Feb. 1993-Sep. 2008
  Contaminant Concentrations in Fish from San Francisco Bay, 2000
  Calculating Fraction of Inorganic Arsenic in SF Bay Fish and Shellfish
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Francisco Bay Basin: Controllable water quality factors shall not cause a detrimental increase in concentrations of toxic substances found in bottom sediments or aquatic life. Effects on aquatic organisms, wildlife, and human health will be considered.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) San Francisco Bay Basin (Region 2)
 
Evaluation Guideline: The modified OEHHA Advisory Tissue Level for arsenic in fish tissue is 0.34 ppm. This screening level assumes an average body weight of 70 kg and a consumption rate of 32 g/day for a 30 year exposure over a 70-year lifetime. This constituent is a carcinogen therefore the risk level is set to one in ten thousand. (Klasing, S., and R. Brodberg, 2008; OEHHA, 2004).

Advisory Tissue Levels (ATLs), while still conferring no significant health risk to
individuals consuming sport fish in the quantities shown over a lifetime, were developed
with the recognition that there are unique health benefits associated with fish
consumption and that the advisory process should be expanded beyond a simple risk
paradigm in order to best promote the overall health of the fish consumer. ATLs provide
a number of recommended fish servings that correspond to the range of contaminant
concentrations found in fish and are used to provide consumption advice to prevent
consumers from being exposed to more than the average daily reference dose for noncarcinogens
or to a risk level greater than 1x10-4 for carcinogens (not more than one
additional cancer case in a population of 10,000 people consuming fish at the given
consumption rate over a lifetime). ATLs are designed to encourage consumption of fish
that can be eaten in quantities likely to provide significant health benefits, while
discouraging consumption of fish that, because of contaminant concentrations, should not
be eaten or cannot be eaten in amounts recommended for improving overall health (eight
ounces total, prior to cooking, per week). ATLs are one of the criteria that will be used
by OEHHA for issuing fish consumption guidelines.
Guideline Reference: Development of Fish Contaminant Goals and Advisory Tissue Levels for Common Contaminants in California Sport Fish: Chlordane, DDTs, Dieldrin, Methylmercury, PCBs, Selenium, and Toxaphene
  Air Toxics Hotspots Program Risk Assessment Guidelines. Part ll Technical Support Document for Describing Available Cancer Potency Values.
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at two sites in San Pablo Bay.
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected in May 1994 and July and August 2003.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: The 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances was used.
QAPP Information Reference(s): 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances
 
 
DECISION ID
66051
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
Pollutant: Benzo(a)pyrene (3,4-Benzopyrene -7-d)
Final Listing Decision: Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: New Decision
Revision Status Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: This pollutant is being considered for placement on the CWA section 303(d) List under section 3.1 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. One of the 80 samples exceed the OBJECTIVE.

Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is sufficient justification against placing this water segment-pollutant combination on the CWA section 303(d) List 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 80 samples exceeded the OBJECTIVE and this does not exceed the allowable frequency listed in Table 3.1 of the Listing Policy.
4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.
 
Regional Board Decision Recommendation: After review of the available data and information, RWQCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should not be placed on the section 303(d) list because applicable water quality standards are not being exceeded.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 66051, Benzo(a)pyrene (3,4-Benzopyrene -7-d)
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 93134
 
Pollutant: Benzo(a)pyrene (3,4-Benzopyrene -7-d)
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Commercial or recreational collection of fish, shellfish, or organisms
 
Number of Samples: 80
Number of Exceedances: 1
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: State Water Board staff assessed SFEI data for San Pablo Bay to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 1 of 80 samples exceed the criterion for Indeno(1, 2, 3-C, D)Pyrene.
Data Reference: Regional Monitoring Program data, Feb. 1993-Sep. 2008
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Indeno(1, 2, 3-C, D)Pyrene criteria for the protection of human health from consumption of organisms only is 0.049 ug/L (California Toxics Rule, 2000).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Code of Federal Regulations 40 part 131.38 Establishment of numeric criteria for priority toxic pollutants for the State of California. 7/1/2011 Edition
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for San Pablo Bay was collected at 22 monitoring sites [ Petaluma River - BD15, Pinole Point - BD30, Davis Point - BD40, San Pablo Bay - SPB005W, San Pablo Bay - SPB006W, San Pablo Bay - SPB007W, San Pablo Bay - SPB008W, San Pablo Bay - SPB009W, San Pablo Bay - SPB011W, San Pablo Bay - SPB014W, San Pablo Bay - SPB015W, San Pablo Bay - SPB016W, San Pablo Bay - SPB017W, San Pablo Bay - SPB018W, San Pablo Bay - SPB019W, San Pablo Bay - SPB020W, San Pablo Bay - SPB021W, San Pablo Bay - SPB022W, San Pablo Bay - SPB023W, San Pablo Bay - SPB024W, San Pablo Bay - SPB025W, San Pablo Bay - SPB026W]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 3/4/1993-7/14/2008.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: The 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances was used.
QAPP Information Reference(s): 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances
 
 
DECISION ID
66055
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
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 Conclusion: This pollutant is being considered for placement on the CWA section 303(d) List under section 3.1 and 3.5 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.1 and 3.5 a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status.

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

Zero of the 94 samples exceed the objective for continuous concentration to protect saltwater aquatic organisms.
Zero of the 43 samples exceed the guideline for the protection of human health from consumption of organisms.

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

This conclusion is based on the staff findings that:
1. The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy.
2. The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy.
3. Zero of the 94 samples exceed the objective for continuous concentration to protect saltwater aquatic organisms and zero of the 43 samples exceed the guideline for the protection of human health from consumption of organisms and this does not exceed the allowable frequency listed in Table 3.1 of the Listing Policy.
4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met
 
Regional Board Decision Recommendation: After review of the available data and information, RWQCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should not be placed on the section 303(d) list because applicable water quality standards are not being exceeded.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 66055, Cadmium
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 93136
 
Pollutant: Cadmium
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Estuarine Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 94
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: State Water Board staff assessed SFEI data for San Pablo Bay to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 94 samples exceed the criterion for Cadmium.
Data Reference: Regional Monitoring Program data, Feb. 1993-Sep. 2008
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The dissolved cadmium criterion continuous concentration (expressed as a 4-day average) to protect aquatic life in saline water is 0.093 mg/L (California Toxics Rule, 2000).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Code of Federal Regulations 40 part 131.38 Establishment of numeric criteria for priority toxic pollutants for the State of California. 7/1/2011 Edition
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for San Pablo Bay was collected at 29 monitoring sites [ Davis Point - BD40, Petaluma River - BD15, Pinole Point - BD30, San Pablo Bay - SPB008W, San Pablo Bay - SPB014W, San Pablo Bay - SPB018W, San Pablo Bay - SPB016W, San Pablo Bay - SPB005W, San Pablo Bay - SPB020W, San Pablo Bay - SPB017W, San Pablo Bay - SPB010W, San Pablo Bay - SPB002W, San Pablo Bay - SPB015W, San Pablo Bay - SPB007W, San Pablo Bay - SPB013W, San Pablo Bay - SPB006W, San Pablo Bay - SPB019W, San Pablo Bay - SPB009W, San Pablo Bay - SPB011W, San Pablo Bay - SPB001W, San Pablo Bay - SPB023W, San Pablo Bay - SPB003W, San Pablo Bay - SPB012W, San Pablo Bay - SPB022W, San Pablo Bay - SPB004W, San Pablo Bay - SPB025W, San Pablo Bay - SPB021W, San Pablo Bay - SPB026W, San Pablo Bay - SPB024W]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 3/4/1993-7/14/2008.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: The 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances was used.
QAPP Information Reference(s): 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 66055, Cadmium
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 93703
 
Pollutant: Cadmium
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Tissue
Matrix: Tissue
Fraction: Shellfish
 
Beneficial Use: Shellfish Harvesting
 
Number of Samples: 43
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: Shellfish surveys
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: None of the 43 samples exceeded the guideline. Composite samples were comprised of Crassostrea gigas or Mytilus californianus. Data were reported on a dry weight basis and were converted to a wet weight basis by multiplying the dry-weight concentration by a factor of 1 minus the percentage of moisture content expressed as a decimal. If a dry weight result did not have a corresponding moisture result for conversion to wet weight, the sample was not included in the assessment. Laboratory replicates were averaged.
Data Reference: Regional Monitoring Program data, Feb. 1993-Sep. 2008
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Francisco Bay Basin: Controllable water quality factors shall not cause a detrimental increase in concentrations of toxic substances found in bottom sediments or aquatic life. Effects on aquatic organisms, wildlife, and human health will be considered.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) San Francisco Bay Basin (Region 2)
 
Evaluation Guideline: The modified OEHHA Fish Contaminant Goal for cadmium in shellfish tissue is 3.3 ppm. This screening level assumes an average body weight of 70 kg and a consumption rate of 21 g/day. (Brodberg, R.K., and G.A. Pollock, 1999; Klasing, S., and R. Brodberg, 2008; USEPA, 2000)
Guideline Reference: Prevalence of Selected Target Chemical Contaminants in Sport Fish From Two California Lakes: Public health designed screening study. Sacramento, CA: Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment
  Development of Fish Contaminant Goals and Advisory Tissue Levels for Common Contaminants in California Sport Fish: Chlordane, DDTs, Dieldrin, Methylmercury, PCBs, Selenium, and Toxaphene
  Guidance for Assessing Chemical Contaminant Data for Use In Fish Advisories Volume 1: Fish Sampling and Analysis
 
Spatial Representation: Samples were collected at the following stations: BD20 - San Pablo Bay, BD30 - Pinole Point, and BD40 - Davis Point.
Temporal Representation: Samples were generally collected in spring and fall seasons from years 1993 - 1999 and then during fall 2000, 2001, and 2008.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances.
QAPP Information Reference(s): 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 66055, Cadmium
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 95146
 
Pollutant: Cadmium
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Tissue
Matrix: Tissue
Fraction: Fish fillet
 
Beneficial Use: Commercial or recreational collection of fish, shellfish, or organisms
 
Number of Samples: 4
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: Fish tissue analysis
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed Regional Monitoring Program data for San Pablo Bay to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 4 samples exceed the criterion for cadmium. No samples were discarded for being non-detect, unquantifiable or the reporting limit exceeding the water quality objective.
Data Reference: Regional Monitoring Program data, Feb. 1993-Sep. 2008
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Francisco Bay Basin: Controllable water quality factors shall not cause a detrimental increase in concentrations of toxic substances found in bottom sediments or aquatic life. Effects on aquatic organisms, wildlife, and human health will be considered.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) San Francisco Bay Basin (Region 2)
 
Evaluation Guideline: The modified OEHHA Fish Contaminant Goal for cadmium in fish tissue is 2.2 ppm. This screening level assumes an average body weight of 70 kg and a consumption rate of 32 g/day. (Klasing, S., and R. Brodberg, 2008; USEPA, 2000)
Guideline Reference: Development of Fish Contaminant Goals and Advisory Tissue Levels for Common Contaminants in California Sport Fish: Chlordane, DDTs, Dieldrin, Methylmercury, PCBs, Selenium, and Toxaphene
  Guidance for Assessing Chemical Contaminant Data for Use In Fish Advisories Volume 1: Fish Sampling and Analysis
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at one site San Pablo Bay.
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected in May 1994.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: The 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances was used.
QAPP Information Reference(s): 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances
 
 
DECISION ID
66061
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
Pollutant: Chlorpyrifos
Final Listing Decision: Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: New Decision
Revision Status Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: This pollutant is being considered for placement on the CWA section 303(d) List under section 3.1 and 3.5 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.1 and 3.5 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.

Zero of the 70 samples exceed the guideline for continuous concentration to protect saltwater aquatic organisms.
Zero of the 63 samples exceed the guideline for the protection of human health from consumption of organisms.

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

This conclusion is based on the staff findings that:
1. The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy.
2. The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy.
3. Zero of the 70 samples exceed the guideline for continuous concentration to protect saltwater aquatic organisms and zero of the 63 samples exceed the guideline for the protection of human health from consumption of organisms.and this does not exceed the allowable frequency listed in Table 3.1 of the Listing Policy.
4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.
 
Regional Board Decision Recommendation: After review of the available data and information, RWQCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should not be placed on the section 303(d) list because applicable water quality standards are not being exceeded.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 66061, Chlorpyrifos
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 95155
 
Pollutant: Chlorpyrifos
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Tissue
Matrix: Tissue
Fraction: Fish fillet
 
Beneficial Use: Commercial or recreational collection of fish, shellfish, or organisms
 
Number of Samples: 63
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: Fish tissue analysis
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed Regional Monitoring Program data for San Pablo Bay to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 63 samples exceed the criterion for chlorpyrifos. No samples were discarded for being non-detect, unquantifiable or the reporting limit exceeding the water quality objective.
Data Reference: Regional Monitoring Program data, Feb. 1993-Sep. 2008
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Francisco Bay Basin: Controllable water quality factors shall not cause a detrimental increase in concentrations of toxic substances found in bottom sediments or aquatic life. Effects on aquatic organisms, wildlife, and human health will be considered.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) San Francisco Bay Basin (Region 2)
 
Evaluation Guideline: The modified OEHHA Fish Contaminant Goal for chlorpyrifos in fish tissue is 660 ppb. This screening level assumes an average body weight of 70 kg and a consumption rate of 32 g/day. A cooking reduction factor of 1 is applied for skin-off fillets. (Klasing, S., and R. Brodberg, 2008; USEPA, 2000)
Guideline Reference: Development of Fish Contaminant Goals and Advisory Tissue Levels for Common Contaminants in California Sport Fish: Chlordane, DDTs, Dieldrin, Methylmercury, PCBs, Selenium, and Toxaphene
  Guidance for Assessing Chemical Contaminant Data for Use In Fish Advisories Volume 1: Fish Sampling and Analysis
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at six sites throughout San Pablo Bay.
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected every three years from May 1994 through August 2006.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: The 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances was used.
QAPP Information Reference(s): 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 66061, Chlorpyrifos
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 93139
 
Pollutant: Chlorpyrifos
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Estuarine Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 70
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: State Water Board staff assessed SFEI data for San Pablo Bay to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 70 samples exceed the criterion for Chlorpyrifos.
Data Reference: Regional Monitoring Program data, Feb. 1993-Sep. 2008
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: All waters shall be maintained free of toxic substances in concentrations which are toxic to, or which produce detrimental physiological responses in, human, plant, animal, or aquatic life. (Basin Plan).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) San Francisco Bay Basin (Region 2)
 
Evaluation Guideline: The saltwater criterion continuous concentration to protect aquatic organisms is 0.009 ug/L (Siepmann and Finlayson 2000).
Guideline Reference: 10-Day toxicity test exposing freshwater amphipods (Hyalella azteca) to fenpropathrin applied to formulated sediment under static-renewal conditions. Springborn Smithers Laboratories Study No. 13656.6137, Wareham, MA. Submitted to pyrethroid working group. DPR record number 254438
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for San Pablo Bay was collected at 15 monitoring sites [ Davis Point - BD40, Petaluma River - BD15, Pinole Point - BD30, San Pablo Bay - SPB008W, San Pablo Bay - SPB014W, San Pablo Bay - SPB016W, San Pablo Bay - SPB005W, San Pablo Bay - SPB002W, San Pablo Bay - SPB015W, San Pablo Bay - SPB007W, San Pablo Bay - SPB013W, San Pablo Bay - SPB006W, San Pablo Bay - SPB001W, San Pablo Bay - SPB003W, San Pablo Bay - SPB004W]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 3/4/1993-8/11/2005.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: The 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances was used.
QAPP Information Reference(s): 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances
 
 
DECISION ID
66064
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
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 Conclusion: This pollutant is being considered for placement on the CWA section 303(d) List under section 3.1 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.1 a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status.

One line of evidence is available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. One of the 57 samples exceed the Objective.

Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is sufficient justification against placing this water segment-pollutant combination on the CWA section 303(d) List 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 57 samples exceeded the Objective and this does not exceed the allowable frequency listed in Table 3.1 of the Listing Policy.
4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.
 
Regional Board Decision Recommendation: After review of the available data and information, RWQCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should not be placed on the section 303(d) list because applicable water quality standards are not being exceeded.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 66064, Chromium
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 93140
 
Pollutant: Chromium
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Estuarine Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 57
Number of Exceedances: 1
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: State Water Board staff assessed SFEI data for San Pablo Bay to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 1 of 57 samples exceed the criterion for Chromium.
Data Reference: Regional Monitoring Program data, Feb. 1993-Sep. 2008
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The dissolved chromium (III) criterion continuous concentration (expressed as a 4-day average) to protect aquatic life in freshwater is 0.180 mg/L (California Toxics Rule, 2000).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Code of Federal Regulations 40 part 131.38 Establishment of numeric criteria for priority toxic pollutants for the State of California. 7/1/2011 Edition
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for San Pablo Bay was collected at 3 monitoring sites [ Davis Point - BD40, Petaluma River - BD15, Pinole Point - BD30]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 3/4/1993-7/19/1999.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: The 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances was used.
QAPP Information Reference(s): 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances
 
 
DECISION ID
66066
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
Pollutant: Chrysene (C1-C4)
Final Listing Decision: Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: New Decision
Revision Status Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: This pollutant is being considered for placement on the CWA section 303(d) List under section 3.1 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.1 a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status.

One line of evidence is available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. Zero of the 82 samples exceed the OBJECTIVE.

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

This conclusion is based on the staff findings that:
1. The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy.
2. The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy.
3. Zero of the 82 samples exceeded the OBJECTIVE and this does not exceed the allowable frequency listed in Table 3.1 of the Listing Policy.
4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.
 
Regional Board Decision Recommendation: After review of the available data and information, RWQCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should not be placed on the section 303(d) list because applicable water quality standards are not being exceeded.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 66066, Chrysene (C1-C4)
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 93141
 
Pollutant: Chrysene (C1-C4)
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Commercial or recreational collection of fish, shellfish, or organisms
 
Number of Samples: 82
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: State Water Board staff assessed SFEI data for San Pablo Bay to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 82 samples exceed the criterion for Chrysene.
Data Reference: Regional Monitoring Program data, Feb. 1993-Sep. 2008
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Chrysene criteria for the protection of human health from consumption of organisms only is 0.049 ug/L (California Toxics Rule, 2000).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Code of Federal Regulations 40 part 131.38 Establishment of numeric criteria for priority toxic pollutants for the State of California. 7/1/2011 Edition
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for San Pablo Bay was collected at 25 monitoring sites [ Petaluma River - BD15, Pinole Point - BD30, Davis Point - BD40, San Pablo Bay - SPB001W, San Pablo Bay - SPB002W, San Pablo Bay - SPB003W, San Pablo Bay - SPB004W, San Pablo Bay - SPB005W, San Pablo Bay - SPB006W, San Pablo Bay - SPB007W, San Pablo Bay - SPB008W, San Pablo Bay - SPB009W, San Pablo Bay - SPB010W, San Pablo Bay - SPB011W, San Pablo Bay - SPB012W, San Pablo Bay - SPB017W, San Pablo Bay - SPB018W, San Pablo Bay - SPB019W, San Pablo Bay - SPB020W, San Pablo Bay - SPB021W, San Pablo Bay - SPB022W, San Pablo Bay - SPB023W, San Pablo Bay - SPB024W, San Pablo Bay - SPB025W, San Pablo Bay - SPB026W]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 3/4/1993-7/14/2008.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: The 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances was used.
QAPP Information Reference(s): 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances
 
 
DECISION ID
66067
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
Pollutant: Copper
Final Listing Decision: Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: New Decision
Revision Status Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: This pollutant is being considered for placement on the CWA section 303(d) List under section 3.1 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.

Zero of the 98 samples exceed the OBJECTIVE for the protection saltwater aquatic life.
Zero of the 98 samples exceed the OBJECTIVE for the protection of agricultural supply.

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

This conclusion is based on the staff findings that:
1. The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy.
2. The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy.
3. Zero of the 98 samples exceed the OBJECTIVE for the protection saltwater aquatic life and zero of the 98 samples exceed the OBJECTIVE for the protection of agricultural supply and this does not exceed the allowable frequency listed in Table 3.1 of the Listing Policy.
4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.
 
Regional Board Decision Recommendation: After review of the available data and information, RWQCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should not be placed on the section 303(d) list because applicable water quality standards are not being exceeded.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 66067, Copper
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 93143
 
Pollutant: Copper
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Agricultural Supply
 
Number of Samples: 98
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: State Water Board staff assessed SFEI data for San Pablo Bay to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 98 samples exceed the criterion for Copper.
Data Reference: Regional Monitoring Program data, Feb. 1993-Sep. 2008
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan, San Francisco Bay Basin, Chapter III Water Quality Objectives, Section 3.3.22 Constituents of Concern for Municipal and Agricultural Water Supplies states: At a minimum, surface waters designated for use as agricultural supply (AGR) shall not contain concentrations of constituents in excess of the levels specified in Table 3-6. The copper limit for irrigation and livestock watering supply is 5.0 mg/L and 0.5 mg/l, respectively.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) San Francisco Bay Basin (Region 2)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for San Pablo Bay was collected at 29 monitoring sites [ Petaluma River - BD15, Pinole Point - BD30, Davis Point - BD40, San Pablo Bay - SPB001W, San Pablo Bay - SPB002W, San Pablo Bay - SPB003W, San Pablo Bay - SPB004W, San Pablo Bay - SPB005W, San Pablo Bay - SPB006W, San Pablo Bay - SPB007W, San Pablo Bay - SPB008W, San Pablo Bay - SPB009W, San Pablo Bay - SPB010W, San Pablo Bay - SPB011W, San Pablo Bay - SPB012W, San Pablo Bay - SPB013W, San Pablo Bay - SPB014W, San Pablo Bay - SPB015W, San Pablo Bay - SPB016W, San Pablo Bay - SPB017W, San Pablo Bay - SPB018W, San Pablo Bay - SPB019W, San Pablo Bay - SPB020W, San Pablo Bay - SPB021W, San Pablo Bay - SPB022W, San Pablo Bay - SPB023W, San Pablo Bay - SPB024W, San Pablo Bay - SPB025W, San Pablo Bay - SPB026W]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 3/4/1993-7/14/2008.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: The 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances was used.
QAPP Information Reference(s): 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 66067, Copper
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 93142
 
Pollutant: Copper
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Estuarine Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 98
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: State Water Board staff assessed SFEI data for San Pablo Bay to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 98 samples exceed the criterion for Copper.
Data Reference: Regional Monitoring Program data, Feb. 1993-Sep. 2008
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: According to table 3-3A, the Copper site-specific objective for San Pablo Bay is 6 ug/L.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) San Francisco Bay Basin (Region 2)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for San Pablo Bay was collected at 29 monitoring sites [ Davis Point - BD40, Petaluma River - BD15, Pinole Point - BD30, San Pablo Bay - SPB008W, San Pablo Bay - SPB014W, San Pablo Bay - SPB018W, San Pablo Bay - SPB016W, San Pablo Bay - SPB005W, San Pablo Bay - SPB020W, San Pablo Bay - SPB017W, San Pablo Bay - SPB010W, San Pablo Bay - SPB002W, San Pablo Bay - SPB015W, San Pablo Bay - SPB007W, San Pablo Bay - SPB013W, San Pablo Bay - SPB006W, San Pablo Bay - SPB019W, San Pablo Bay - SPB009W, San Pablo Bay - SPB011W, San Pablo Bay - SPB001W, San Pablo Bay - SPB023W, San Pablo Bay - SPB003W, San Pablo Bay - SPB012W, San Pablo Bay - SPB022W, San Pablo Bay - SPB004W, San Pablo Bay - SPB025W, San Pablo Bay - SPB021W, San Pablo Bay - SPB026W, San Pablo Bay - SPB024W]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 3/4/1993-7/14/2008.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: The 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances was used.
QAPP Information Reference(s): 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances
 
 
DECISION ID
66068
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
Pollutant: Cyanide
Final Listing Decision: Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: New Decision
Revision Status Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: This pollutant is being considered for placement on the CWA section 303(d) List under section 3.1 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.1 one line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status.

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

Zero of the six samples exceed the Objective for the protection saltwater aquatic life.
Zero of the six samples exceed the Objective for the protection of human health from consumption of organisms only.

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

1. The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy.
2. The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy.
3. Zero of the six samples exceed the Objective for the protection saltwater aquatic life and zero of the six samples exceed the Objective for the protection of human health from consumption of organisms only. These sample sizes are insufficient to determine, with the power and confidence of the Listing Policy, the applicable beneficial use support rating. A minimum of 16 samples is needed to determine if a beneficial use is fully supported using table 3.1. 4. Pursuant to 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.
 
Regional Board Decision Recommendation: After review of the available data and information, RWQCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should not be placed on the section 303(d) list. The readily available data and information is insufficient to determine, with the power and confidence of the Listing Policy, the applicable beneficial use support rating.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 66068, Cyanide
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 93144
 
Pollutant: Cyanide
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Estuarine Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 6
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: State Water Board staff assessed SFEI data for San Pablo Bay to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 6 samples exceed the criterion for Cyanide.
Data Reference: Regional Monitoring Program data, Feb. 1993-Sep. 2008
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: According to table 3-3C, the Cyanide site-specific objective for San Pablo Bay is 2.9 ug/L.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) San Francisco Bay Basin (Region 2)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for San Pablo Bay was collected at 2 monitoring sites [ Pinole Point - BD30, Davis Point - BD40]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 3/4/1993-9/15/1993.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: The 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances was used.
QAPP Information Reference(s): 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 66068, Cyanide
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 93145
 
Pollutant: Cyanide
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Commercial or recreational collection of fish, shellfish, or organisms
 
Number of Samples: 6
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: State Water Board staff assessed SFEI data for San Pablo Bay to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 6 samples exceed the criterion for Cyanide.
Data Reference: Regional Monitoring Program data, Feb. 1993-Sep. 2008
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The cyanide criteria for the protection of human health from consumption of organisms only is 220,000 ug/L (California Toxics Rule, 2000).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Code of Federal Regulations 40 part 131.38 Establishment of numeric criteria for priority toxic pollutants for the State of California. 7/1/2011 Edition
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for San Pablo Bay was collected at 2 monitoring sites [ Pinole Point - BD30, Davis Point - BD40]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 3/4/1993-9/15/1993.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: The 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances was used.
QAPP Information Reference(s): 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances
 
 
DECISION ID
66069
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
Pollutant: Endosulfan
Final Listing Decision: Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: New Decision
Revision Status Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: This pollutant is being considered for placement on the CWA section 303(d) List under section 3.1 and 3.5 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.1 and 3.5 a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status.

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

Zero of the 62 samples exceed the objective for continuous concentration to protect saltwater aquatic organisms.
Zero of the 43 samples exceed the guideline for the protection of human health from consumption of organisms.

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

This conclusion is based on the staff findings that:
1. The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy.
2. The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy.
3. Zero of the 62 samples exceed the objective for continuous concentration to protect saltwater aquatic organisms and zero of the 43 samples exceed the guideline for the protection of human health from consumption of organisms and this does not exceed the allowable frequency listed in Table 3.1 of the Listing Policy.
4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met
 
Regional Board Decision Recommendation: After review of the available data and information, RWQCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should not be placed on the section 303(d) list because applicable water quality standards are not being exceeded.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 66069, Endosulfan
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 95138
 
Pollutant: Endosulfan
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Tissue
Matrix: Tissue
Fraction: Fish fillet
 
Beneficial Use: Commercial or recreational collection of fish, shellfish, or organisms
 
Number of Samples: 43
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: Fish tissue analysis
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed Regional Monitoring Program data for San Pablo Bay to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 43 samples exceed the criterion for endosulfan. Twenty samples were discarded for being non-detect, unquantifiable or the reporting limit exceeding the water quality objective.
Data Reference: Regional Monitoring Program data, Feb. 1993-Sep. 2008
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Francisco Bay Basin: Controllable water quality factors shall not cause a detrimental increase in concentrations of toxic substances found in bottom sediments or aquatic life. Effects on aquatic organisms, wildlife, and human health will be considered.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) San Francisco Bay Basin (Region 2)
 
Evaluation Guideline: The modified OEHHA Fish Contaminant Goal for endosulfan (l and ll) in fish tissue is 13,000 ppb. This screening level assumes an average body weight of 70 kg and a consumption rate of 32 g/day. A cooking reduction factor of 1 is applied for skin-off fillets. (Klasing, S., and R. Brodberg, 2008; USEPA, 2000)
Guideline Reference: Development of Fish Contaminant Goals and Advisory Tissue Levels for Common Contaminants in California Sport Fish: Chlordane, DDTs, Dieldrin, Methylmercury, PCBs, Selenium, and Toxaphene
  Guidance for Assessing Chemical Contaminant Data for Use In Fish Advisories Volume 1: Fish Sampling and Analysis
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at six sites throughout San Pablo Bay.
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected every three years from May 1994 through August 2006.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: The 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances was used.
QAPP Information Reference(s): 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 66069, Endosulfan
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 93677
 
Pollutant: Endosulfan
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Tissue
Matrix: Tissue
Fraction: Shellfish
 
Beneficial Use: Shellfish Harvesting
 
Number of Samples: 5
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: Shellfish surveys
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: None of the 5 samples exceeded the guideline. All composite samples were comprised of Crassostrea gigas or Mytilus californianus. Data were reported on a dry weight basis and were converted to a wet weight basis by multiplying the dry-weight concentration by a factor of 1 minus the percentage of moisture content expressed as a decimal.
Data Reference: Regional Monitoring Program data, Feb. 1993-Sep. 2008
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Francisco Bay Basin: Controllable water quality factors shall not cause a detrimental increase in concentrations of toxic substances found in bottom sediments or aquatic life. Effects on aquatic organisms, wildlife, and human health will be considered.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) San Francisco Bay Basin (Region 2)
 
Evaluation Guideline: The modified OEHHA Fish Contaminant Goal for endosulfan (l and ll) in shellfish tissue is 20,000 ppb. This screening level assumes an average body weight of 70 kg and a consumption rate of 21 g/day. (Brodberg, R.K., and G.A. Pollock, 1999; Klasing, S., and R. Brodberg, 2008; USEPA, 2000)
Guideline Reference: Prevalence of Selected Target Chemical Contaminants in Sport Fish From Two California Lakes: Public health designed screening study. Sacramento, CA: Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment
  Development of Fish Contaminant Goals and Advisory Tissue Levels for Common Contaminants in California Sport Fish: Chlordane, DDTs, Dieldrin, Methylmercury, PCBs, Selenium, and Toxaphene
  Guidance for Assessing Chemical Contaminant Data for Use In Fish Advisories Volume 1: Fish Sampling and Analysis
 
Spatial Representation: Samples were collected at the following station: BD20 - San Pablo Bay, BD30 - Pinole Point, and BD40 Davis Point.
Temporal Representation: Samples were generally collected during fall seasons from years 2002 - 2003.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances.
QAPP Information Reference(s): 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 66069, Endosulfan
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 93152
 
Pollutant: Endosulfan
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Estuarine Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 62
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: State Water Board staff assessed SFEI data for San Pablo Bay to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 62 samples exceed the criterion for Endosulfan, Total.
Data Reference: Regional Monitoring Program data, Feb. 1993-Sep. 2008
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The total Endosulfan criterion continuous concentration (expressed as a 4-day average) to protect aquatic life in saltwater is 0.0087 ug/L (California Toxics Rule, 2000).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Code of Federal Regulations 40 part 131.38 Establishment of numeric criteria for priority toxic pollutants for the State of California. 7/1/2011 Edition
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for San Pablo Bay was collected at 6 monitoring sites [ Davis Point - BD40, Petaluma River - BD15, Pinole Point - BD30, San Pablo Bay - SPB015W, San Pablo Bay - SPB013W, San Pablo Bay - SPB002W]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 3/4/1993-8/11/2005.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: The 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances was used.
QAPP Information Reference(s): 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances
 
 
DECISION ID
66070
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
Pollutant: Endosulfan sulfate
Final Listing Decision: Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: New Decision
Revision Status Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: This pollutant is being considered for placement on the CWA section 303(d) List under section 3.1 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.1 a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status.

One line of evidence is available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. Zero of the 75 samples exceed the OBJECTIVE.

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

This conclusion is based on the staff findings that:
1. The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy.
2. The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy.
3. Zero of the 75 samples exceeded the OBJECTIVE and this does not exceed the allowable frequency listed in Table 3.1 of the Listing Policy.
4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.
 
Regional Board Decision Recommendation: After review of the available data and information, RWQCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should not be placed on the section 303(d) list because applicable water quality standards are not being exceeded.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 66070, Endosulfan sulfate
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 93153
 
Pollutant: Endosulfan sulfate
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Commercial or recreational collection of fish, shellfish, or organisms
 
Number of Samples: 75
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: State Water Board staff assessed SFEI data for San Pablo Bay to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 75 samples exceed the criterion for Endosulfan Sulfate.
Data Reference: Regional Monitoring Program data, Feb. 1993-Sep. 2008
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Endosulfan Sulfate criteria for the protection of human health from consumption of organisms only is 240 ug/L (California Toxics Rule, 2000).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Code of Federal Regulations 40 part 131.38 Establishment of numeric criteria for priority toxic pollutants for the State of California. 7/1/2011 Edition
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for San Pablo Bay was collected at 22 monitoring sites [ Petaluma River - BD15, Pinole Point - BD30, Davis Point - BD40, San Pablo Bay - SPB001W, San Pablo Bay - SPB002W, San Pablo Bay - SPB003W, San Pablo Bay - SPB004W, San Pablo Bay - SPB005W, San Pablo Bay - SPB006W, San Pablo Bay - SPB007W, San Pablo Bay - SPB008W, San Pablo Bay - SPB013W, San Pablo Bay - SPB014W, San Pablo Bay - SPB015W, San Pablo Bay - SPB016W, San Pablo Bay - SPB017W, San Pablo Bay - SPB018W, San Pablo Bay - SPB019W, San Pablo Bay - SPB020W, San Pablo Bay - SPB021W, San Pablo Bay - SPB022W, San Pablo Bay - SPB023W]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 4/26/1994-8/9/2007.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: The 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances was used.
QAPP Information Reference(s): 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances
 
 
DECISION ID
66071
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
Pollutant: Endrin
Final Listing Decision: Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: New Decision
Revision Status Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: This pollutant is being considered for placement on the CWA section 303(d) List under section 3.1 and 3.5 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.1 and 3.5 a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status. Four lines of evidence are available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant.

Zero of the 64 samples exceed the OBJECTIVE to protect aquatic life in saline water.
Zero of the 63 samples exceed the GUIDELINE for the protection of human health from consumption of organisms.
Zero of the 53 samples exceed the GUIDELINE for the protection of human health from consumption of organisms.
Zero of the 73 samples exceed the OBJECTIVE for the protection of human health from consumption of organisms only.

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

This conclusion is based on the staff findings that:
1. The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy.
2. The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy.
3. Zero of the 64 samples exceed the OBJECTIVE to protect aquatic life in saline water, zero of the 63 samples exceed the GUIDELINE for the protection of human health from consumption of organisms, zero of the 53 samples exceed the GUIDELINE for the protection of human health from consumption of organisms, zero of the 73 samples exceed the OBJECTIVE for the protection of human health from consumption of organisms only, and this does not exceed the allowable frequency listed in Table 3.1 of the Listing Policy.
4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.
 
Regional Board Decision Recommendation: After review of the available data and information, RWQCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should not be placed on the section 303(d) list because applicable water quality standards are not being exceeded.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 66071, Endrin
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 95114
 
Pollutant: Endrin
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Tissue
Matrix: Tissue
Fraction: Fish fillet
 
Beneficial Use: Commercial or recreational collection of fish, shellfish, or organisms
 
Number of Samples: 63
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: Fish tissue analysis
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed Regional Monitoring Program data for San Pablo Bay to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 63 samples exceed the criterion for endrin. No samples were discarded for being non-detect, unquantifiable or the reporting limit exceeding the water quality objective.
Data Reference: Regional Monitoring Program data, Feb. 1993-Sep. 2008
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Francisco Bay Basin: Controllable water quality factors shall not cause a detrimental increase in concentrations of toxic substances found in bottom sediments or aquatic life. Effects on aquatic organisms, wildlife, and human health will be considered.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) San Francisco Bay Basin (Region 2)
 
Evaluation Guideline: The modified OEHHA Fish Contaminant Goal for endrin in fish tissue is 660 ppb. This screening level assumes an average body weight of 70 kg and a consumption rate of 32 g/day. A cooking reduction factor of 1 is applied for skin-off fillets. (Klasing, S., and R. Brodberg, 2008; USEPA, 2000)
Guideline Reference: Development of Fish Contaminant Goals and Advisory Tissue Levels for Common Contaminants in California Sport Fish: Chlordane, DDTs, Dieldrin, Methylmercury, PCBs, Selenium, and Toxaphene
  Guidance for Assessing Chemical Contaminant Data for Use In Fish Advisories Volume 1: Fish Sampling and Analysis
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at six sites throughout San Pablo Bay.
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected every three years from May 1994 through August 2006.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: The 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances was used.
QAPP Information Reference(s): 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 66071, Endrin
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 93154
 
Pollutant: Endrin
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Estuarine Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 64
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: State Water Board staff assessed SFEI data for San Pablo Bay to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 64 samples exceed the criterion for Endrin.
Data Reference: Regional Monitoring Program data, Feb. 1993-Sep. 2008
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Endrin criterion continuous concentration (expressed as a 4-day average) to protect aquatic life in saline water is 0.0023 ug/L (California Toxics Rule, 2000).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Code of Federal Regulations 40 part 131.38 Establishment of numeric criteria for priority toxic pollutants for the State of California. 7/1/2011 Edition
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for San Pablo Bay was collected at 18 monitoring sites [ Davis Point - BD40, Petaluma River - BD15, Pinole Point - BD30, San Pablo Bay - SPB008W, San Pablo Bay - SPB014W, San Pablo Bay - SPB016W, San Pablo Bay - SPB005W, San Pablo Bay - SPB010W, San Pablo Bay - SPB002W, San Pablo Bay - SPB015W, San Pablo Bay - SPB013W, San Pablo Bay - SPB006W, San Pablo Bay - SPB009W, San Pablo Bay - SPB011W, San Pablo Bay - SPB001W, San Pablo Bay - SPB003W, San Pablo Bay - SPB012W, San Pablo Bay - SPB004W]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 8/22/1994-8/11/2005.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: The 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances was used.
QAPP Information Reference(s): 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 66071, Endrin
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 93158
 
Pollutant: Endrin
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Commercial or recreational collection of fish, shellfish, or organisms
 
Number of Samples: 73
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: State Water Board staff assessed SFEI data for San Pablo Bay to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 73 samples exceed the criterion for Endrin.
Data Reference: Regional Monitoring Program data, Feb. 1993-Sep. 2008
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Endrin criteria for the protection of human health from consumption of organisms only is 0.81ug/L (California Toxics Rule, 2000).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Code of Federal Regulations 40 part 131.38 Establishment of numeric criteria for priority toxic pollutants for the State of California. 7/1/2011 Edition
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for San Pablo Bay was collected at 23 monitoring sites [ Petaluma River - BD15, Pinole Point - BD30, Davis Point - BD40, San Pablo Bay - SPB001W, San Pablo Bay - SPB002W, San Pablo Bay - SPB003W, San Pablo Bay - SPB004W, San Pablo Bay - SPB008W, San Pablo Bay - SPB009W, San Pablo Bay - SPB010W, San Pablo Bay - SPB011W, San Pablo Bay - SPB012W, San Pablo Bay - SPB013W, San Pablo Bay - SPB014W, San Pablo Bay - SPB015W, San Pablo Bay - SPB016W, San Pablo Bay - SPB017W, San Pablo Bay - SPB018W, San Pablo Bay - SPB019W, San Pablo Bay - SPB020W, San Pablo Bay - SPB021W, San Pablo Bay - SPB022W, San Pablo Bay - SPB023W]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 8/22/1994-8/9/2007.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: The 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances was used.
QAPP Information Reference(s): 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 66071, Endrin
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 93655
 
Pollutant: Endrin
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Tissue
Matrix: Tissue
Fraction: Shellfish
 
Beneficial Use: Shellfish Harvesting
 
Number of Samples: 53
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: Shellfish surveys
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: None of the 53 samples exceeded the guideline. All composite samples were comprised of Crassostrea gigas or Mytilus californianus. Data were reported on a dry weight basis and were converted to a wet weight basis by multiplying the dry-weight concentration by a factor of 1 minus the percentage of moisture content expressed as a decimal. Laboratory replicates were averaged.
Data Reference: Regional Monitoring Program data, Feb. 1993-Sep. 2008
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Francisco Bay Basin: Controllable water quality factors shall not cause a detrimental increase in concentrations of toxic substances found in bottom sediments or aquatic life. Effects on aquatic organisms, wildlife, and human health will be considered.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) San Francisco Bay Basin (Region 2)
 
Evaluation Guideline: The modified OEHHA Fish Contaminant Goal for endrin in shellfish tissue is 1,000 ppb. This screening level assumes an average body weight of 70 kg and a consumption rate of 21 g/day. (Brodberg, R.K., and G.A. Pollock, 1999; Klasing, S., and R. Brodberg, 2008; USEPA, 2000)
Guideline Reference: Prevalence of Selected Target Chemical Contaminants in Sport Fish From Two California Lakes: Public health designed screening study. Sacramento, CA: Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment
  Development of Fish Contaminant Goals and Advisory Tissue Levels for Common Contaminants in California Sport Fish: Chlordane, DDTs, Dieldrin, Methylmercury, PCBs, Selenium, and Toxaphene
  Guidance for Assessing Chemical Contaminant Data for Use In Fish Advisories Volume 1: Fish Sampling and Analysis
 
Spatial Representation: Samples were collected at the following station: BD20 - San Pablo Bay, BD30 - Pinole Point, and BD40 Davis Point.
Temporal Representation: Samples were generally collected in spring and fall seasons from years 1994 - 1999 and then during most fall seasons during years 2000 - 2008.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances.
QAPP Information Reference(s): 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances
 
 
DECISION ID
66086
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
Pollutant: Fluoranthene
Final Listing Decision: Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: New Decision
Revision Status Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: This pollutant is being considered for placement on the CWA section 303(d) List under section 3.1 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.

Zero of the 75 samples exceed the criteria for the protection saltwater aquatic life.
Zero of the 83 samples exceed the objective for the protection of human health from consumption of organisms only.

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

This conclusion is based on the staff findings that:
1. The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy.
2. The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy.
3. Zero of the 75 samples exceed the criteria for the protection saltwater aquatic life and zero of the 83 samples exceed the objective for the protection of human health from consumption of organisms only and this does not exceed the allowable frequency listed in Table 3.1 of the Listing Policy.
4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.
 
Regional Board Decision Recommendation: After review of the available data and information, RWQCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should not be placed on the section 303(d) list because applicable water quality standards are not being exceeded.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 66086, Fluoranthene
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 93160
 
Pollutant: Fluoranthene
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Commercial or recreational collection of fish, shellfish, or organisms
 
Number of Samples: 83
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: State Water Board staff assessed SFEI data for San Pablo Bay to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 83 samples exceed the criterion for Fluoranthene.
Data Reference: Regional Monitoring Program data, Feb. 1993-Sep. 2008
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Fluoranthene criteria for the protection of human health from consumption of organisms only is 370 ug/L (California Toxics Rule, 2000).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Code of Federal Regulations 40 part 131.38 Establishment of numeric criteria for priority toxic pollutants for the State of California. 7/1/2011 Edition
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for San Pablo Bay was collected at 29 monitoring sites [ Petaluma River - BD15, Pinole Point - BD30, Davis Point - BD40, San Pablo Bay - SPB001W, San Pablo Bay - SPB002W, San Pablo Bay - SPB003W, San Pablo Bay - SPB004W, San Pablo Bay - SPB005W, San Pablo Bay - SPB006W, San Pablo Bay - SPB007W, San Pablo Bay - SPB008W, San Pablo Bay - SPB009W, San Pablo Bay - SPB010W, San Pablo Bay - SPB011W, San Pablo Bay - SPB012W, San Pablo Bay - SPB013W, San Pablo Bay - SPB014W, San Pablo Bay - SPB015W, San Pablo Bay - SPB016W, San Pablo Bay - SPB017W, San Pablo Bay - SPB018W, San Pablo Bay - SPB019W, San Pablo Bay - SPB020W, San Pablo Bay - SPB021W, San Pablo Bay - SPB022W, San Pablo Bay - SPB023W, San Pablo Bay - SPB024W, San Pablo Bay - SPB025W, San Pablo Bay - SPB026W]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 3/4/1993-7/14/2008.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: The 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances was used.
QAPP Information Reference(s): 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 66086, Fluoranthene
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 93159
 
Pollutant: Fluoranthene
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Estuarine Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 75
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: State Water Board staff assessed SFEI data for San Pablo Bay to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 75 samples exceed the criterion for Fluoranthene.
Data Reference: Regional Monitoring Program data, Feb. 1993-Sep. 2008
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: No individual pesticide or combination of pesticides shall be present in concentrations that adversely affect beneficial uses.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) San Francisco Bay Basin (Region 2)
 
Evaluation Guideline: The available data for Fluoranthene indicate that chronic toxicity to saltwater aquatic life occurs at concentrations as low as 16 ug/Land would occur at lower concentrations among species that are more sensitive than those tested. (USEPA Gold Book - EPA 440/5-86-001)
Guideline Reference: Quality Criteria for Water 1986. United States Environmental Protection Agency. Office of Water. Regulations and Standards. Washington D.C. EPA 440/5-86-001.
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for San Pablo Bay was collected at 19 monitoring sites [ Davis Point - BD40, Petaluma River - BD15, Pinole Point - BD30, San Pablo Bay - SPB008W, San Pablo Bay - SPB014W, San Pablo Bay - SPB016W, San Pablo Bay - SPB005W, San Pablo Bay - SPB010W, San Pablo Bay - SPB002W, San Pablo Bay - SPB015W, San Pablo Bay - SPB007W, San Pablo Bay - SPB013W, San Pablo Bay - SPB006W, San Pablo Bay - SPB009W, San Pablo Bay - SPB011W, San Pablo Bay - SPB001W, San Pablo Bay - SPB003W, San Pablo Bay - SPB012W, San Pablo Bay - SPB004W]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 3/4/1993-8/11/2005.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: The 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances was used.
QAPP Information Reference(s): 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances
 
 
DECISION ID
66088
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
Pollutant: Fluorene
Final Listing Decision: Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: New Decision
Revision Status Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: This pollutant is being considered for placement on the CWA section 303(d) List under section 3.1 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.1 a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status.

One line of evidence is available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. Zero of the 55 samples exceed the OBJECTIVE.

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

This conclusion is based on the staff findings that:
1. The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy.
2. The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy.
3. Zero of the 55 samples exceeded the OBJECTIVE and this does not exceed the allowable frequency listed in Table 3.1 of the Listing Policy.
4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.
 
Regional Board Decision Recommendation: After review of the available data and information, RWQCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should not be placed on the section 303(d) list because applicable water quality standards are not being exceeded.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 66088, Fluorene
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 93161
 
Pollutant: Fluorene
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Commercial or recreational collection of fish, shellfish, or organisms
 
Number of Samples: 55
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: State Water Board staff assessed SFEI data for San Pablo Bay to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 55 samples exceed the criterion for Fluorene.
Data Reference: Regional Monitoring Program data, Feb. 1993-Sep. 2008
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Fluorene criteria for the protection of human health from consumption of organisms only is 14,000 ug/L (California Toxics Rule, 2000).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Code of Federal Regulations 40 part 131.38 Establishment of numeric criteria for priority toxic pollutants for the State of California. 7/1/2011 Edition
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for San Pablo Bay was collected at 24 monitoring sites [ Petaluma River - BD15, Pinole Point - BD30, Davis Point - BD40, San Pablo Bay - SPB001W, San Pablo Bay - SPB002W, San Pablo Bay - SPB003W, San Pablo Bay - SPB004W, San Pablo Bay - SPB005W, San Pablo Bay - SPB007W, San Pablo Bay - SPB008W, San Pablo Bay - SPB009W, San Pablo Bay - SPB010W, San Pablo Bay - SPB011W, San Pablo Bay - SPB012W, San Pablo Bay - SPB017W, San Pablo Bay - SPB018W, San Pablo Bay - SPB019W, San Pablo Bay - SPB020W, San Pablo Bay - SPB021W, San Pablo Bay - SPB022W, San Pablo Bay - SPB023W, San Pablo Bay - SPB024W, San Pablo Bay - SPB025W, San Pablo Bay - SPB026W]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 2/12/1996-7/14/2008.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: The 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances was used.
QAPP Information Reference(s): 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances
 
 
DECISION ID
66089
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
Pollutant: Heptachlor
Final Listing Decision: Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: New Decision
Revision Status Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: This pollutant is being considered for placement on the CWA section 303(d) List under section 3.1 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.

Zero of the 65 samples exceed the objective to protect aquatic life in saline water.
Zero of the 61 samples exceed the objective for the protection of human health from consumption of organisms only.

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

This conclusion is based on the staff findings that:
1. The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy.
2. The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy.
3. Zero of the 65 samples exceed the objective to protect aquatic life in saline water and zero of the 61 samples exceed the objective for the protection of human health from consumption of organisms only and this does not exceed the allowable frequency listed in Table 3.1 of the Listing Policy.
4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.
 
Regional Board Decision Recommendation: After review of the available data and information, RWQCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should not be placed on the section 303(d) list because applicable water quality standards are not being exceeded.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 66089, Heptachlor
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 93166
 
Pollutant: Heptachlor
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Commercial or recreational collection of fish, shellfish, or organisms
 
Number of Samples: 61
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: State Water Board staff assessed SFEI data for San Pablo Bay to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 61 samples exceed the criterion for Heptachlor.
Data Reference: Regional Monitoring Program data, Feb. 1993-Sep. 2008
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Heptachlor criteria for the protection of human health from consumption of organisms only is 0.00021 ug/L (California Toxics Rule, 2000).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Code of Federal Regulations 40 part 131.38 Establishment of numeric criteria for priority toxic pollutants for the State of California. 7/1/2011 Edition
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for San Pablo Bay was collected at 14 monitoring sites [ Petaluma River - BD15, Pinole Point - BD30, Davis Point - BD40, San Pablo Bay - SPB001W, San Pablo Bay - SPB002W, San Pablo Bay - SPB003W, San Pablo Bay - SPB004W, San Pablo Bay - SPB009W, San Pablo Bay - SPB010W, San Pablo Bay - SPB011W, San Pablo Bay - SPB012W, San Pablo Bay - SPB018W, San Pablo Bay - SPB019W, San Pablo Bay - SPB020W]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 4/26/1994-8/23/2006.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: The 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances was used.
QAPP Information Reference(s): 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 66089, Heptachlor
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 93165
 
Pollutant: Heptachlor
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Estuarine Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 65
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: State Water Board staff assessed SFEI data for San Pablo Bay to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 65 samples exceed the criterion for Heptachlor.
Data Reference: Regional Monitoring Program data, Feb. 1993-Sep. 2008
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Heptachlor criterion continuous concentration (expressed as a 4-day average) to protect aquatic life in saline water is 0.0036 ug/L (California Toxics Rule, 2000).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Code of Federal Regulations 40 part 131.38 Establishment of numeric criteria for priority toxic pollutants for the State of California. 7/1/2011 Edition
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for San Pablo Bay was collected at 15 monitoring sites [ Davis Point - BD40, Petaluma River - BD15, Pinole Point - BD30, San Pablo Bay - SPB008W, San Pablo Bay - SPB005W, San Pablo Bay - SPB010W, San Pablo Bay - SPB002W, San Pablo Bay - SPB007W, San Pablo Bay - SPB006W, San Pablo Bay - SPB009W, San Pablo Bay - SPB011W, San Pablo Bay - SPB001W, San Pablo Bay - SPB003W, San Pablo Bay - SPB012W, San Pablo Bay - SPB004W]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 4/26/1994-7/21/2004.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: The 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances was used.
QAPP Information Reference(s): 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances
 
 
DECISION ID
66090
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
Pollutant: Heptachlor epoxide
Final Listing Decision: Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: New Decision
Revision Status Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: This pollutant is being considered for placement on the CWA section 303(d) List under section 3.1 and 3.5 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.1 and 3.5 a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status.

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

Zero of the 71 samples exceed the OBJECTIVE to protect aquatic life in saline water.
Zero of the 26 samples exceed the GUIDELINE for the protection of human health from consumption of organisms.
Zero of the 42 samples exceed the GUIDELINE for the protection of human health from consumption of organisms.
Four of the 73 samples exceed the OBJECTIVE for the protection of human health from consumption of organisms only.

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

This conclusion is based on the staff findings that:
1. The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy.
2. The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy.
3. Zero of the 71 samples exceed the OBJECTIVE to protect aquatic life in saline water. Zero of the 26 samples exceed the GUIDELINE for the protection of human health from consumption of organisms. Zero of the 42 samples exceed the GUIDELINE for the protection of human health from consumption of organisms. Four of the 73 samples exceed the OBJECTIVE for the protection of human health from consumption of organisms only. These do not exceed the allowable frequency listed in Table 3.1 of the Listing Policy.
4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.
 
Regional Board Decision Recommendation: After review of the available data and information, RWQCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should not be placed on the section 303(d) list because applicable water quality standards are not being exceeded.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 66090, Heptachlor epoxide
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 95092
 
Pollutant: Heptachlor epoxide
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Tissue
Matrix: Tissue
Fraction: Fish fillet
 
Beneficial Use: Commercial or recreational collection of fish, shellfish, or organisms
 
Number of Samples: 26
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: Fish tissue analysis
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed Regional Monitoring Program data for San Pablo Bay to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 26 samples exceed the criterion for Heptachlor epoxide. Fifty-seven samples were discarded for being non-detect, unquantifiable or the reporting limit exceeding the water quality objective.
Data Reference: Regional Monitoring Program data, Feb. 1993-Sep. 2008
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Francisco Bay Basin: Controllable water quality factors shall not cause a detrimental increase in concentrations of toxic substances found in bottom sediments or aquatic life. Effects on aquatic organisms, wildlife, and human health will be considered.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) San Francisco Bay Basin (Region 2)
 
Evaluation Guideline: The modified OEHHA Fish Contaminant Goal for heptachlor epoxide in fish tissue is 0.93 ppb. This screening level assumes an average body weight of 70 kg and a consumption rate of 32 g/day for a 30 year exposure over a 70-year lifetime. This constituent is a carcinogen therefore the risk level is set to one in a million. A cooking reduction factor of 1 is applied for skin-off fillets. (Klasing, S., and R. Brodberg, 2008; OEHHA, 1999)
Guideline Reference: Development of Fish Contaminant Goals and Advisory Tissue Levels for Common Contaminants in California Sport Fish: Chlordane, DDTs, Dieldrin, Methylmercury, PCBs, Selenium, and Toxaphene
  Public Health Goal for Heptachlor and Heptachlor Epoxide in Drinking Water
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at six sites throughout San Pablo Bay.
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected every three years from May 1994 through August 2006.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: The 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances was used.
QAPP Information Reference(s): 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 66090, Heptachlor epoxide
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 93656
 
Pollutant: Heptachlor epoxide
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Tissue
Matrix: Tissue
Fraction: Shellfish
 
Beneficial Use: Shellfish Harvesting
 
Number of Samples: 42
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: Shellfish surveys
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: None of the 42 samples exceeded the guideline. All composite samples were comprised of Crassostrea gigas or Mytilus californianus. Data were reported on a dry weight basis and were converted to a wet weight basis by multiplying the dry-weight concentration by a factor of 1 minus the percentage of moisture content expressed as a decimal. Eleven samples were not used in the assessment because the laboratory data reporting limit(s) were above the objective and therefore the results could not be quantified with the level of certainty required by the Listing Policy. Laboratory replicates were averaged.
Data Reference: Regional Monitoring Program data, Feb. 1993-Sep. 2008
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Francisco Bay Basin: Controllable water quality factors shall not cause a detrimental increase in concentrations of toxic substances found in bottom sediments or aquatic life. Effects on aquatic organisms, wildlife, and human health will be considered.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) San Francisco Bay Basin (Region 2)
 
Evaluation Guideline: The modified OEHHA Fish Contaminant Goal for heptachlor epoxide in shellfish tissue is 1.4 ppb. This screening level assumes an average body weight of 70 kg and a consumption rate of 21 g/day for a 30 year exposure over a 70-year lifetime. This constituent is a carcinogen therefore the risk level is set to one in a million. (Brodberg, R.K., and G.A. Pollock, 1999; Klasing, S., and R. Brodberg, 2008; OEHHA, 1999)
Guideline Reference: Prevalence of Selected Target Chemical Contaminants in Sport Fish From Two California Lakes: Public health designed screening study. Sacramento, CA: Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment
  Development of Fish Contaminant Goals and Advisory Tissue Levels for Common Contaminants in California Sport Fish: Chlordane, DDTs, Dieldrin, Methylmercury, PCBs, Selenium, and Toxaphene
  Public Health Goal for Heptachlor and Heptachlor Epoxide in Drinking Water
 
Spatial Representation: Samples were collected at the following station: BD20 - San Pablo Bay, BD30 - Pinole Point, and BD40 Davis Point.
Temporal Representation: Samples were generally collected in spring and fall seasons from years 1994 - 1999 and then during most fall seasons during years 2000 - 2008.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances.
QAPP Information Reference(s): 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 66090, Heptachlor epoxide
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 93167
 
Pollutant: Heptachlor epoxide
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Estuarine Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 71
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: State Water Board staff assessed SFEI data for San Pablo Bay to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 71 samples exceed the criterion for Heptachlor Epoxide.
Data Reference: Regional Monitoring Program data, Feb. 1993-Sep. 2008
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Heptachlor Epoxide criterion continuous concentration (expressed as a 4-day average) to protect aquatic life in saline water is 0.0036 ug/L (California Toxics Rule, 2000).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Code of Federal Regulations 40 part 131.38 Establishment of numeric criteria for priority toxic pollutants for the State of California. 7/1/2011 Edition
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for San Pablo Bay was collected at 19 monitoring sites [ Davis Point - BD40, Petaluma River - BD15, Pinole Point - BD30, San Pablo Bay - SPB008W, San Pablo Bay - SPB014W, San Pablo Bay - SPB016W, San Pablo Bay - SPB005W, San Pablo Bay - SPB010W, San Pablo Bay - SPB002W, San Pablo Bay - SPB015W, San Pablo Bay - SPB007W, San Pablo Bay - SPB013W, San Pablo Bay - SPB006W, San Pablo Bay - SPB009W, San Pablo Bay - SPB011W, San Pablo Bay - SPB001W, San Pablo Bay - SPB003W, San Pablo Bay - SPB012W, San Pablo Bay - SPB004W]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 2/7/1994-8/11/2005.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: The 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances was used.
QAPP Information Reference(s): 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 66090, Heptachlor epoxide
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 93168
 
Pollutant: Heptachlor epoxide
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Commercial or recreational collection of fish, shellfish, or organisms
 
Number of Samples: 73
Number of Exceedances: 4
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: State Water Board staff assessed SFEI data for San Pablo Bay to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 4 of 73 samples exceed the criterion for Heptachlor Epoxide.
Data Reference: Regional Monitoring Program data, Feb. 1993-Sep. 2008
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Heptachlor Epoxide criteria for the protection of human health from consumption of organisms only is 0.00011 ug/L (California Toxics Rule, 2000).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Code of Federal Regulations 40 part 131.38 Establishment of numeric criteria for priority toxic pollutants for the State of California. 7/1/2011 Edition
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for San Pablo Bay was collected at 20 monitoring sites [ Petaluma River - BD15, Pinole Point - BD30, Davis Point - BD40, San Pablo Bay - SPB001W, San Pablo Bay - SPB003W, San Pablo Bay - SPB009W, San Pablo Bay - SPB010W, San Pablo Bay - SPB011W, San Pablo Bay - SPB012W, San Pablo Bay - SPB013W, San Pablo Bay - SPB014W, San Pablo Bay - SPB015W, San Pablo Bay - SPB016W, San Pablo Bay - SPB017W, San Pablo Bay - SPB018W, San Pablo Bay - SPB019W, San Pablo Bay - SPB020W, San Pablo Bay - SPB021W, San Pablo Bay - SPB022W, San Pablo Bay - SPB023W]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 2/7/1994-8/9/2007.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: The 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances was used.
QAPP Information Reference(s): 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances
 
 
DECISION ID
66100
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
Pollutant: Hexachlorobenzene/ HCB
Final Listing Decision: Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: New Decision
Revision Status Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: This pollutant is being considered for placement on the CWA section 303(d) List under section 3.1 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.1 a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status.

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

Zero of the 64 samples exceed the GUIDELINE for the protection of human health from consumption of organisms.
Zero of the 53 samples exceed the GUIDELINE for the protection of human health from consumption of organisms.
Zero of the 65 samples exceed the OBJECTIVE for the protection of human health from consumption of organisms only.

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

This conclusion is based on the staff findings that:
1. The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy.
2. The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy.
3. Zero of the 64 samples exceed the GUIDELINE for the protection of human health from consumption of organisms, zero of the 53 samples exceed the GUIDELINE for the protection of human health from consumption of organisms, zero of the 65 samples exceed the OBJECTIVE for the protection of human health from consumption of organisms only and this does not exceed the allowable frequency listed in Table 3.1 of the Listing Policy.
4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.
 
Regional Board Decision Recommendation: After review of the available data and information, RWQCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should not be placed on the section 303(d) list because applicable water quality standards are not being exceeded.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 66100, Hexachlorobenzene/ HCB
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 95088
 
Pollutant: Hexachlorobenzene/ HCB
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Tissue
Matrix: Tissue
Fraction: Fish fillet
 
Beneficial Use: Commercial or recreational collection of fish, shellfish, or organisms
 
Number of Samples: 64
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: Fish tissue analysis
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed Regional Monitoring Program data for San Pablo Bay to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 64 samples exceed the criterion for hexachlorobenzene. No samples were discarded for being non-detect, unquantifiable or the reporting limit exceeding the water quality objective.
Data Reference: Regional Monitoring Program data, Feb. 1993-Sep. 2008
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Francisco Bay Basin: Controllable water quality factors shall not cause a detrimental increase in concentrations of toxic substances found in bottom sediments or aquatic life. Effects on aquatic organisms, wildlife, and human health will be considered.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) San Francisco Bay Basin (Region 2)
 
Evaluation Guideline: The modified OEHHA Fish Contaminant Goal for hexachlorobenzene in fish tissue is 2.8 ppb. This screening level assumes an average body weight of 70 kg and a consumption rate of 32 g/day for a 30 year exposure over a 70-year lifetime. This constituent is a carcinogen therefore the risk level is set to one in a million. A cooking reduction factor of 1 is applied for skin-off fillets. (Klasing, S., and R. Brodberg, 2008; OEHHA, 2005)
Guideline Reference: Development of Fish Contaminant Goals and Advisory Tissue Levels for Common Contaminants in California Sport Fish: Chlordane, DDTs, Dieldrin, Methylmercury, PCBs, Selenium, and Toxaphene
  Air Toxics Hotspots Program Risk Assessment Guidelines. Part ll Technical Support Document for Describing Available Cancer Potency Values.
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at six sites throughout San Pablo Bay.
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected every three years from May 1994 through August 2006.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: The 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances was used.
QAPP Information Reference(s): 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 66100, Hexachlorobenzene/ HCB
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 93169
 
Pollutant: Hexachlorobenzene/ HCB
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Commercial or recreational collection of fish, shellfish, or organisms
 
Number of Samples: 65
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: State Water Board staff assessed SFEI data for San Pablo Bay to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 65 samples exceed the criterion for Hexachlorobenzene.
Data Reference: Regional Monitoring Program data, Feb. 1993-Sep. 2008
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Hexachlorobenzene criteria for the protection of human health from consumption of organisms only is 0.00077 ug/L (California Toxics Rule, 2000).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Code of Federal Regulations 40 part 131.38 Establishment of numeric criteria for priority toxic pollutants for the State of California. 7/1/2011 Edition
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for San Pablo Bay was collected at 8 monitoring sites [ Petaluma River - BD15, Pinole Point - BD30, Davis Point - BD40, San Pablo Bay - SPB005W, San Pablo Bay - SPB017W, San Pablo Bay - SPB018W, San Pablo Bay - SPB019W, San Pablo Bay - SPB020W]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 3/4/1993-8/23/2006.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: The 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances was used.
QAPP Information Reference(s): 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 66100, Hexachlorobenzene/ HCB
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 93678
 
Pollutant: Hexachlorobenzene/ HCB
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Tissue
Matrix: Tissue
Fraction: Shellfish
 
Beneficial Use: Shellfish Harvesting
 
Number of Samples: 53
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: Shellfish surveys
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: None of the 53 samples exceeded the guideline. All composite samples were comprised of Crassostrea gigas or Mytilus californianus. Data were reported on a dry weight basis and were converted to a wet weight basis by multiplying the dry-weight concentration by a factor of 1 minus the percentage of moisture content expressed as a decimal. Laboratory replicates were averaged.
Data Reference: Regional Monitoring Program data, Feb. 1993-Sep. 2008
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Francisco Bay Basin: Controllable water quality factors shall not cause a detrimental increase in concentrations of toxic substances found in bottom sediments or aquatic life. Effects on aquatic organisms, wildlife, and human health will be considered.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) San Francisco Bay Basin (Region 2)
 
Evaluation Guideline: The modified OEHHA Fish Contaminant Goal for hexachlorobenzene in shellfish tissue is 4.3 ppb. This screening level assumes an average body weight of 70 kg and a consumption rate of 21 g/day for a 30 year exposure over a 70-year lifetime. This constituent is a carcinogen therefore the risk level is set to one in a million. (Brodberg, R.K., and G.A. Pollock, 1999; Klasing, S., and R. Brodberg, 2008; OEHHA, 2005)
Guideline Reference: Prevalence of Selected Target Chemical Contaminants in Sport Fish From Two California Lakes: Public health designed screening study. Sacramento, CA: Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment
  Development of Fish Contaminant Goals and Advisory Tissue Levels for Common Contaminants in California Sport Fish: Chlordane, DDTs, Dieldrin, Methylmercury, PCBs, Selenium, and Toxaphene
  Air Toxics Hotspots Program Risk Assessment Guidelines. Part ll Technical Support Document for Describing Available Cancer Potency Values.
 
Spatial Representation: Samples were collected at the following station: BD20 - San Pablo Bay, BD30 - Pinole Point, and BD40 Davis Point.
Temporal Representation: Samples were generally collected in spring and fall seasons from years 1994 - 1999 and then during most fall seasons during years 2000 - 2008.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances.
QAPP Information Reference(s): 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances
 
 
DECISION ID
66108
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
Pollutant: Lead
Final Listing Decision: Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: New Decision
Revision Status Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: This pollutant is being considered for placement on the CWA section 303(d) List under section 3.1 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.1 a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status.

One line of evidence is available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. Zero of the 91 samples exceed the OBJECTIVE.

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

This conclusion is based on the staff findings that:
1. The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy.
2. The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy.
3. Zero of the 91 samples exceed the OBJECTIVE and this does not exceed the allowable frequency listed in Table 3.1 of the Listing Policy.
4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.
 
Regional Board Decision Recommendation: After review of the available data and information, RWQCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should not be placed on the section 303(d) list because applicable water quality standards are not being exceeded.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 66108, Lead
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 93173
 
Pollutant: Lead
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Estuarine Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 91
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: State Water Board staff assessed SFEI data for San Pablo Bay to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 91 samples exceed the criterion for Lead.
Data Reference: Regional Monitoring Program data, Feb. 1993-Sep. 2008
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The dissolved lead criterion continuous concentration (expressed as a 4-day average) to protect aquatic life in saline water is 0.0081 mg/L (California Toxics Rule, 2000).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Code of Federal Regulations 40 part 131.38 Establishment of numeric criteria for priority toxic pollutants for the State of California. 7/1/2011 Edition
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for San Pablo Bay was collected at 26 monitoring sites [ Petaluma River - BD15, Pinole Point - BD30, Davis Point - BD40, San Pablo Bay - SPB001W, San Pablo Bay - SPB002W, San Pablo Bay - SPB003W, San Pablo Bay - SPB004W, San Pablo Bay - SPB005W, San Pablo Bay - SPB006W, San Pablo Bay - SPB007W, San Pablo Bay - SPB008W, San Pablo Bay - SPB009W, San Pablo Bay - SPB010W, San Pablo Bay - SPB011W, San Pablo Bay - SPB012W, San Pablo Bay - SPB013W, San Pablo Bay - SPB014W, San Pablo Bay - SPB015W, San Pablo Bay - SPB016W, San Pablo Bay - SPB017W, San Pablo Bay - SPB018W, San Pablo Bay - SPB019W, San Pablo Bay - SPB020W, San Pablo Bay - SPB024W, San Pablo Bay - SPB025W, San Pablo Bay - SPB026W]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 3/4/1993-7/14/2008.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: The 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances was used.
QAPP Information Reference(s): 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances
 
 
DECISION ID
66112
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
Pollutant: Lindane/gamma Hexachlorocyclohexane (gamma-HCH)
Final Listing Decision: Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: New Decision
Revision Status Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: This pollutant is being considered for placement on the CWA section 303(d) List under section 3.1 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.1 a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status.

One line of evidence is available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. Zero of the 53 samples exceed the GUIDELINE.

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

This conclusion is based on the staff findings that:
1. The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy.
2. The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy.
3. Zero of the 53 samples exceed 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 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 66112, Lindane/gamma Hexachlorocyclohexane (gamma-HCH)
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 93679
 
Pollutant: Lindane/gamma Hexachlorocyclohexane (gamma-HCH)
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Tissue
Matrix: Tissue
Fraction: Shellfish
 
Beneficial Use: Shellfish Harvesting
 
Number of Samples: 53
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: Shellfish surveys
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: None of the 53 samples exceeded the guideline. All composite samples were comprised of Crassostrea gigas or Mytilus californianus. Data were reported on a dry weight basis and were converted to a wet weight basis by multiplying the dry-weight concentration by a factor of 1 minus the percentage of moisture content expressed as a decimal. Laboratory replicates were averaged.
Data Reference: Regional Monitoring Program data, Feb. 1993-Sep. 2008
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Francisco Bay Basin: Controllable water quality factors shall not cause a detrimental increase in concentrations of toxic substances found in bottom sediments or aquatic life. Effects on aquatic organisms, wildlife, and human health will be considered.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) San Francisco Bay Basin (Region 2)
 
Evaluation Guideline: The modified OEHHA Fish Contaminant Goal for lindane in shellfish tissue is 7.1 ppb. This screening level assumes an average body weight of 70 kg and a consumption rate of 21 g/day for a 30 year exposure over a 70-year lifetime. This constituent is a carcinogen therefore the risk level is set to one in a million. (Brodberg, R.K., and G.A. Pollock, 1999; Klasing, S., and R. Brodberg, 2008; OEHHA, 2005)
Guideline Reference: Prevalence of Selected Target Chemical Contaminants in Sport Fish From Two California Lakes: Public health designed screening study. Sacramento, CA: Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment
  Development of Fish Contaminant Goals and Advisory Tissue Levels for Common Contaminants in California Sport Fish: Chlordane, DDTs, Dieldrin, Methylmercury, PCBs, Selenium, and Toxaphene
  Air Toxics Hotspots Program Risk Assessment Guidelines. Part ll Technical Support Document for Describing Available Cancer Potency Values.
 
Spatial Representation: Samples were collected at the following station: BD20 - San Pablo Bay, BD30 - Pinole Point, and BD40 Davis Point.
Temporal Representation: Samples were generally collected in spring and fall seasons from years 1994 - 1999 and then during most fall seasons during years 2000 - 2008.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances.
QAPP Information Reference(s): 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances
 
 
DECISION ID
66786
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
Pollutant: Manganese
Final Listing Decision: Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: New Decision
Revision Status Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: This pollutant is being considered for placement on the CWA section 303(d) List under section 3.1 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.1 a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status.

One line of evidence is available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. Zero of thirty-eight samples exceed the guideline.

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

This conclusion is based on the staff findings that:
1. The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy.
2. The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy.
3. Zero of thirty-eight samples exceed 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 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 66786, Manganese
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 93174
 
Pollutant: Manganese
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Commercial or recreational collection of fish, shellfish, or organisms
 
Number of Samples: 38
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: State Water Board staff assessed SFEI data for San Pablo Bay to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 38 samples exceed the criterion for Manganese.
Data Reference: Regional Monitoring Program data, Feb. 1993-Sep. 2008
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Manganese criteria for the protection of human health from the consumption of organisms only is 100 ug/L (California Toxics Rule, 2000).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) San Francisco Bay Basin (Region 2)
 
Evaluation Guideline: The Lead criteria for the protection of human health from fish consumption only is 100 ug/L (National Recommended Water Quality Criteria, 2009).
Guideline Reference: National Recommended Water Quality Criteria. United States Environmental Protection Agency. Office of Water. Office of Science and Technology
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for San Pablo Bay was collected at 29 monitoring sites [ Petaluma River - BD15, Pinole Point - BD30, Davis Point - BD40, San Pablo Bay - SPB001W, San Pablo Bay - SPB002W, San Pablo Bay - SPB003W, San Pablo Bay - SPB004W, San Pablo Bay - SPB005W, San Pablo Bay - SPB006W, San Pablo Bay - SPB007W, San Pablo Bay - SPB008W, San Pablo Bay - SPB009W, San Pablo Bay - SPB010W, San Pablo Bay - SPB011W, San Pablo Bay - SPB012W, San Pablo Bay - SPB013W, San Pablo Bay - SPB014W, San Pablo Bay - SPB015W, San Pablo Bay - SPB016W, San Pablo Bay - SPB017W, San Pablo Bay - SPB018W, San Pablo Bay - SPB019W, San Pablo Bay - SPB020W, San Pablo Bay - SPB021W, San Pablo Bay - SPB022W, San Pablo Bay - SPB023W, San Pablo Bay - SPB024W, San Pablo Bay - SPB025W, San Pablo Bay - SPB026W]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 2/7/2000-7/14/2008.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: The 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances was used.
QAPP Information Reference(s): 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances
 
 
DECISION ID
66115
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
Pollutant: Mirex
Final Listing Decision: Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: New Decision
Revision Status Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: This pollutant is being considered for placement on the CWA section 303(d) List under section 3.1 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.1 a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status.

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

Zero of the 63 samples exceed the criteria for continuous concentration to protect saltwater aquatic organisms.
Zero of the 69 samples exceed the criteria for the protection of human health from consumption of organisms.

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

This conclusion is based on the staff findings that:
1. The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy.
2. The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy.
3. Zero of the 63 samples exceed the criteria for continuous concentration to protect saltwater aquatic organisms and zero of the 69 samples exceed the criteria for the protection of human health from consumption of organisms and this does not exceed the allowable frequency listed in Table 3.1 of the Listing Policy.
4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met
 
Regional Board Decision Recommendation: After review of the available data and information, RWQCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should not be placed on the section 303(d) list because applicable water quality standards are not being exceeded.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 66115, Mirex
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 93175
 
Pollutant: Mirex
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Commercial or recreational collection of fish, shellfish, or organisms
 
Number of Samples: 69
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: State Water Board staff assessed SFEI data for San Pablo Bay to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 69 samples exceed the criterion for Mirex.
Data Reference: Regional Monitoring Program data, Feb. 1993-Sep. 2008
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: No individual pesticide or combination of pesticides shall be present in concentrations that adversely affect beneficial uses.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) San Francisco Bay Basin (Region 2)
 
Evaluation Guideline: The Mirex criteria for the protection of human health from consumption of organisms only is 0.000097 ug/L (National Recommended Water Quality Criteria, 2009).
Guideline Reference: National Recommended Water Quality Criteria. United States Environmental Protection Agency. Office of Water. Office of Science and Technology
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for San Pablo Bay was collected at 15 monitoring sites [ Petaluma River - BD15, Pinole Point - BD30, Davis Point - BD40, San Pablo Bay - SPB001W, San Pablo Bay - SPB002W, San Pablo Bay - SPB003W, San Pablo Bay - SPB004W, San Pablo Bay - SPB009W, San Pablo Bay - SPB010W, San Pablo Bay - SPB011W, San Pablo Bay - SPB012W, San Pablo Bay - SPB017W, San Pablo Bay - SPB018W, San Pablo Bay - SPB019W, San Pablo Bay - SPB020W]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 4/26/1994-8/23/2006.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: The 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances was used.
QAPP Information Reference(s): 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 66115, Mirex
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 93176
 
Pollutant: Mirex
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Estuarine Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 63
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: State Water Board staff assessed SFEI data for San Pablo Bay to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 63 samples exceed the criterion for Mirex.
Data Reference: Regional Monitoring Program data, Feb. 1993-Sep. 2008
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: No individual pesticide or combination of pesticides shall be present in concentrations that adversely affect beneficial uses.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) San Francisco Bay Basin (Region 2)
 
Evaluation Guideline: The USEPA Gold Book states 0.001 ug/L for the protection of freshwater and marine aquatic life. (USEPA Gold Book - EPA 440/5-86-001)
Guideline Reference: Quality Criteria for Water 1986. United States Environmental Protection Agency. Office of Water. Regulations and Standards. Washington D.C. EPA 440/5-86-001.
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for San Pablo Bay was collected at 12 monitoring sites [ Davis Point - BD40, Petaluma River - BD15, Pinole Point - BD30, San Pablo Bay - SPB005W, San Pablo Bay - SPB010W, San Pablo Bay - SPB002W, San Pablo Bay - SPB009W, San Pablo Bay - SPB011W, San Pablo Bay - SPB001W, San Pablo Bay - SPB003W, San Pablo Bay - SPB012W, San Pablo Bay - SPB004W]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 4/26/1994-7/21/2004.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: The 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances was used.
QAPP Information Reference(s): 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 66115, Mirex
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 95235
 
Pollutant: Mirex
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Tissue
Matrix: Tissue
Fraction: Fish fillet
 
Beneficial Use: Commercial or recreational collection of fish, shellfish, or organisms
 
Number of Samples: 0
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: Fish tissue analysis
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed Regional Monitoring Program data for San Pablo Bay to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 0 samples exceed the criterion for Mirex. Eighty-three samples were discarded for being non-detect, unquantifiable or the reporting limit exceeding the water quality objective.
Data Reference: Regional Monitoring Program data, Feb. 1993-Sep. 2008
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Francisco Bay Basin: Controllable water quality factors shall not cause a detrimental increase in concentrations of toxic substances found in bottom sediments or aquatic life. Effects on aquatic organisms, wildlife, and human health will be considered.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) San Francisco Bay Basin (Region 2)
 
Evaluation Guideline: The modified OEHHA Fish Contaminant Goal for mirex in fish tissue is 0.28 ppb. This screening level assumes an average body weight of 70 kg and a consumption rate of 32 g/day. A cooking reduction factor of 1 is applied for skin-off fillets. (Klasing, S., and R. Brodberg, 2008; OEHHA, 1992)
Guideline Reference: Development of Fish Contaminant Goals and Advisory Tissue Levels for Common Contaminants in California Sport Fish: Chlordane, DDTs, Dieldrin, Methylmercury, PCBs, Selenium, and Toxaphene
  Expedited Cancer Potency Values and Proposed Regulatory Levels for Certain Proposition 65 Carcinogens.
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at six sites throughout San Pablo Bay.
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected every three years from May 1994 through August 2006.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: The 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances was used.
QAPP Information Reference(s): 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 66115, Mirex
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 93680
 
Pollutant: Mirex
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Tissue
Matrix: Tissue
Fraction: Shellfish
 
Beneficial Use: Shellfish Harvesting
 
Number of Samples: 15
Number of Exceedances: 1
 
Data and Information Type: Shellfish surveys
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: One of the 15 samples exceeded the guideline. All composite samples were comprised of Crassostrea gigas or Mytilus californianus. Data were reported on a dry weight basis and were converted to a wet weight basis by multiplying the dry-weight concentration by a factor of 1 minus the percentage of moisture content expressed as a decimal. Thirty-eight samples were not used in the assessment because the laboratory data reporting limit(s) were above the objective and therefore the results could not be quantified with the level of certainty required by the Listing Policy. Laboratory replicates were averaged.
Data Reference: Regional Monitoring Program data, Feb. 1993-Sep. 2008
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Francisco Bay Basin: Controllable water quality factors shall not cause a detrimental increase in concentrations of toxic substances found in bottom sediments or aquatic life. Effects on aquatic organisms, wildlife, and human health will be considered.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) San Francisco Bay Basin (Region 2)
 
Evaluation Guideline: The modified OEHHA Fish Contaminant Goal for mirex in shellfish tissue is 0.43 ppb. This screening level assumes an average body weight of 70 kg and a consumption rate of 21 g/day. This constituent is a carcinogen therefore the risk level is set to one in a million. (Brodberg, R.K., and G.A. Pollock, 1999; Klasing, S., and R. Brodberg, 2008; OEHHA, 1992)
Guideline Reference: Prevalence of Selected Target Chemical Contaminants in Sport Fish From Two California Lakes: Public health designed screening study. Sacramento, CA: Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment
  Development of Fish Contaminant Goals and Advisory Tissue Levels for Common Contaminants in California Sport Fish: Chlordane, DDTs, Dieldrin, Methylmercury, PCBs, Selenium, and Toxaphene
  Expedited Cancer Potency Values and Proposed Regulatory Levels for Certain Proposition 65 Carcinogens.
 
Spatial Representation: Samples were collected at the following station: San Pablo Bay, BD30 - Pinole Point, and BD40 Davis Point.
Temporal Representation: Samples were generally collected in spring and fall seasons from years 1994 - 1999 and then during most fall seasons during years 2000 - 2008.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances.
QAPP Information Reference(s): 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances
 
 
DECISION ID
66833
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
Pollutant: PAHs (Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons)
Final Listing Decision: Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: New Decision
Revision Status Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: This pollutant is being considered for placement on the CWA section 303(d) List under section 3.5 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.5 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. Zero of fifty-two samples exceed the guideline.

Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is not 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. Zero of fifty-two samples exceed the OEHHA guideline and this number does not exceed the allowable frequency listed in Table 3.1 of the Listing Policy.
4. There is not a fish consumption advisory in effect for this waterbody.
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 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 66833, PAHs (Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons)
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 93675
 
Pollutant: PAHs (Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons)
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Tissue
Matrix: Tissue
Fraction: Shellfish
 
Beneficial Use: Shellfish Harvesting
 
Number of Samples: 52
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: Shellfish surveys
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Zero of the fifty-two samples exceeded the guideline. Composite samples were comprised of Corbicula fluminea, Crassostrea gigas, or Mytilus californianus. Laboratory replicate 2 collected on 5/5/1994 at BD30 was not included in the assessment. Data were reported on a dry weight basis and were converted to a wet weight basis by multiplying the dry-weight concentration by a factor of 1 minus the percentage of moisture content expressed as a decimal. Laboratory replicates were averaged. PAH, Total is calculated as a potency weighted concentration with respect to benzo(a)pyrene and was calculated based on the following analytes: Dibenz(a,h)anthracene, Benzo(a)pyrene, Benz(a)anthracene, Benzo(b)fluoranthene, Benzo(k)fluoranthene, Indeno(1,2,3-c,d)pyrene, Anthracene, Benzo(g,h,i)perylene, Chrysene, Acenaphthene, Acenaphthylene, Fluoranthene, Fluorene, Phenanthrene, and Pyrene.
Data Reference: Regional Monitoring Program data, Feb. 1993-Sep. 2008
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Francisco Bay Basin (2013): Controllable water quality factors shall not cause a detrimental increase in concentrations of toxic substances found in bottom sediments or aquatic life. Effects on aquatic organisms, wildlife, and human health will be considered.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) San Francisco Bay Basin (Region 2)
 
Evaluation Guideline: The modified OEHHA Advisory Tissue Level for polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in shellfish tissue is 110 ppb. This screening level assumes an average body weight of 70 kg and a consumption rate of 21 g/day for a 30 year exposure over a 70-year lifetime. This constituent is a carcinogen therefore the risk level is set to one in ten thousand. (Brodberg, R.K., and G.A. Pollock, 1999; Klasing, S., and R. Brodberg, 2008; USEPA, 2000)

Advisory Tissue Levels (ATLs), while still conferring no significant health risk to
individuals consuming sport fish in the quantities shown over a lifetime, were developed
with the recognition that there are unique health benefits associated with fish
consumption and that the advisory process should be expanded beyond a simple risk
paradigm in order to best promote the overall health of the fish consumer. ATLs provide
a number of recommended fish servings that correspond to the range of contaminant
concentrations found in fish and are used to provide consumption advice to prevent
consumers from being exposed to more than the average daily reference dose for noncarcinogens
or to a risk level greater than 1x10-4 for carcinogens (not more than one
additional cancer case in a population of 10,000 people consuming fish at the given
consumption rate over a lifetime). ATLs are designed to encourage consumption of fish
that can be eaten in quantities likely to provide significant health benefits, while
discouraging consumption of fish that, because of contaminant concentrations, should not
be eaten or cannot be eaten in amounts recommended for improving overall health (eight
ounces total, prior to cooking, per week). ATLs are one of the criteria that will be used
by OEHHA for issuing fish consumption guidelines.
Guideline Reference: Prevalence of Selected Target Chemical Contaminants in Sport Fish From Two California Lakes: Public health designed screening study. Sacramento, CA: Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment
  Development of Fish Contaminant Goals and Advisory Tissue Levels for Common Contaminants in California Sport Fish: Chlordane, DDTs, Dieldrin, Methylmercury, PCBs, Selenium, and Toxaphene
  Guidance for Assessing Chemical Contaminant Data for Use In Fish Advisories Volume 1: Fish Sampling and Analysis
 
Spatial Representation: Samples were collected at the following stations: BD20 - San Pablo Bay, BD30 - Pinole Point, and BD40 - Davis Point.
Temporal Representation: Samples were generally collected in spring and fall seasons from years 1993 - 1999 and then during fall season from years 2000 - 2008.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances.
QAPP Information Reference(s): 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 66833, PAHs (Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons)
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 95075
 
Pollutant: PAHs (Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons)
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Tissue
Matrix: Tissue
Fraction: Fish fillet
 
Beneficial Use: Commercial or recreational collection of fish, shellfish, or organisms
 
Number of Samples: 4
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: Fish tissue analysis
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed Regional Monitoring Program data for San Pablo Bay to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 4 samples exceed the criterion for polyaromatic hydrocarbons. No samples were discarded for being non-detect, unquantifiable or the reporting limit exceeding the water quality objective.
Data Reference: Regional Monitoring Program data, Feb. 1993-Sep. 2008
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Francisco Bay Basin: Controllable water quality factors shall not cause a detrimental increase in concentrations of toxic substances found in bottom sediments or aquatic life. Effects on aquatic organisms, wildlife, and human health will be considered.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) San Francisco Bay Basin (Region 2)
 
Evaluation Guideline: The modified OEHHA Fish Contaminant Goal for polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in fish tissue is 0.7 ppb. This screening level assumes an average body weight of 70 kg and a consumption rate of 32 g/day for a 30 year exposure over a 70-year lifetime. This constituent is a carcinogen therefore the risk level is set to one in a million. (Klasing, S., and R. Brodberg, 2008; USEPA, 2000)
Guideline Reference: Development of Fish Contaminant Goals and Advisory Tissue Levels for Common Contaminants in California Sport Fish: Chlordane, DDTs, Dieldrin, Methylmercury, PCBs, Selenium, and Toxaphene
  Guidance for Assessing Chemical Contaminant Data for Use In Fish Advisories Volume 1: Fish Sampling and Analysis
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at one site in San Pablo Bay.
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected in May 1994.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: The 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances was used.
QAPP Information Reference(s): 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances
 
 
DECISION ID
66116
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
Pollutant: Pyrene
Final Listing Decision: Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: New Decision
Revision Status Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: This pollutant is being considered for placement on the CWA section 303(d) List under section 3.1 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.1 a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status.

One line of evidence is available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. Zero of the 82 samples exceed the OBJECTIVE.

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

This conclusion is based on the staff findings that:
1. The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy.
2. The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy.
3. Zero of the 82 samples exceed the OBJECTIVE and this does not exceed the allowable frequency listed in Table 3.1 of the Listing Policy.
4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.
 
Regional Board Decision Recommendation: After review of the available data and information, RWQCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should not be placed on the section 303(d) list because applicable water quality standards are not being exceeded.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 66116, Pyrene
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 93184
 
Pollutant: Pyrene
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Commercial or recreational collection of fish, shellfish, or organisms
 
Number of Samples: 82
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: State Water Board staff assessed SFEI data for San Pablo Bay to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 82 samples exceed the criterion for Pyrene.
Data Reference: Regional Monitoring Program data, Feb. 1993-Sep. 2008
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Pyrene criteria for the protection of human health from consumption of organisms only is 11,000 ug/L (California Toxics Rule, 2000).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Code of Federal Regulations 40 part 131.38 Establishment of numeric criteria for priority toxic pollutants for the State of California. 7/1/2011 Edition
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for San Pablo Bay was collected at 29 monitoring sites [ Petaluma River - BD15, Pinole Point - BD30, Davis Point - BD40, San Pablo Bay - SPB001W, San Pablo Bay - SPB002W, San Pablo Bay - SPB003W, San Pablo Bay - SPB004W, San Pablo Bay - SPB005W, San Pablo Bay - SPB006W, San Pablo Bay - SPB007W, San Pablo Bay - SPB008W, San Pablo Bay - SPB009W, San Pablo Bay - SPB010W, San Pablo Bay - SPB011W, San Pablo Bay - SPB012W, San Pablo Bay - SPB013W, San Pablo Bay - SPB014W, San Pablo Bay - SPB015W, San Pablo Bay - SPB016W, San Pablo Bay - SPB017W, San Pablo Bay - SPB018W, San Pablo Bay - SPB019W, San Pablo Bay - SPB020W, San Pablo Bay - SPB021W, San Pablo Bay - SPB022W, San Pablo Bay - SPB023W, San Pablo Bay - SPB024W, San Pablo Bay - SPB025W, San Pablo Bay - SPB026W]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 3/4/1993-7/14/2008.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: The 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances was used.
QAPP Information Reference(s): 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances
 
 
DECISION ID
66117
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
Pollutant: Silver
Final Listing Decision: Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: New Decision
Revision Status Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: This pollutant is being considered for placement on the CWA section 303(d) List under section 3.1 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.1 a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status.

One line of evidence is available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. Zero of the 75 samples exceed the OBJECTIVE.

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

This conclusion is based on the staff findings that:
1. The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy.
2. The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy.
3. Zero of the 75 samples exceed the OBJECTIVE and this does not exceed the allowable frequency listed in Table 3.1 of the Listing Policy.
4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.
 
Regional Board Decision Recommendation: After review of the available data and information, RWQCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should not be placed on the section 303(d) list because applicable water quality standards are not being exceeded.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 66117, Silver
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 93186
 
Pollutant: Silver
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Estuarine Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 75
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: State Water Board staff assessed SFEI data for San Pablo Bay to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 75 samples exceed the criterion for Silver.
Data Reference: Regional Monitoring Program data, Feb. 1993-Sep. 2008
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The dissolved silver criterion maximum concentration to protect aquatic life in saline water is 0.0019 mg/L (California Toxics Rule, 2000).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Code of Federal Regulations 40 part 131.38 Establishment of numeric criteria for priority toxic pollutants for the State of California. 7/1/2011 Edition
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for San Pablo Bay was collected at 21 monitoring sites [ Petaluma River - BD15, Pinole Point - BD30, Davis Point - BD40, San Pablo Bay - SPB001W, San Pablo Bay - SPB002W, San Pablo Bay - SPB003W, San Pablo Bay - SPB004W, San Pablo Bay - SPB005W, San Pablo Bay - SPB006W, San Pablo Bay - SPB007W, San Pablo Bay - SPB008W, San Pablo Bay - SPB013W, San Pablo Bay - SPB014W, San Pablo Bay - SPB015W, San Pablo Bay - SPB016W, San Pablo Bay - SPB021W, San Pablo Bay - SPB022W, San Pablo Bay - SPB023W, San Pablo Bay - SPB024W, San Pablo Bay - SPB025W, San Pablo Bay - SPB026W]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 3/4/1993-7/14/2008.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: The 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances was used.
QAPP Information Reference(s): 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances
 
 
DECISION ID
66118
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
Pollutant: Toxaphene
Final Listing Decision: Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: New Decision
Revision Status Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: This pollutant is being considered for placement on the CWA section 303(d) List under section 3.5 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.5 one line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status. Two lines of evidence are available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant.

Zero of the zero samples exceed the GUIDELINE for the protection of human health from consumption of organisms.
Zero of the zero samples exceed the GUIDELINE for the protection of human health from consumption of organisms.

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

1. The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy.
2. The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy.
3. Zero of the zero samples exceed the GUIDELINE for the protection of human health from consumption of organisms and zero of the zero samples exceed the GUIDELINE for the protection of human health from consumption of organisms and this sample size is insufficient to determine, with the power and confidence of the Listing Policy, the applicable beneficial use support rating. A minimum of 16 samples is needed to determine if a beneficial use is fully supported using table 3.1. 4. Pursuant to 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.
 
Regional Board Decision Recommendation: After review of the available data and information, RWQCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should not be placed on the section 303(d) list. The readily available data and information is insufficient to determine, with the power and confidence of the Listing Policy, the applicable beneficial use support rating.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 66118, Toxaphene
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 95126
 
Pollutant: Toxaphene
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Tissue
Matrix: Tissue
Fraction: Fish fillet
 
Beneficial Use: Commercial or recreational collection of fish, shellfish, or organisms
 
Number of Samples: 0
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: Fish tissue analysis
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Water Board staff assessed Regional Monitoring Program data for San Pablo Bay to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 0 samples exceed the criterion for toxaphene. Forty-eight samples were discarded for being non-detect, unquantifiable or the reporting limit exceeding the water quality objective.
Data Reference: Regional Monitoring Program data, Feb. 1993-Sep. 2008
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Francisco Bay Basin: Controllable water quality factors shall not cause a detrimental increase in concentrations of toxic substances found in bottom sediments or aquatic life. Effects on aquatic organisms, wildlife, and human health will be considered.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) San Francisco Bay Basin (Region 2)
 
Evaluation Guideline: The modified OEHHA Fish Contaminant Goal for toxaphene in fish tissue is 4.3 ppb. This screening level assumes an average body weight of 70 kg and a consumption rate of 32 g/day for a 30 year exposure over a 70-year lifetime. This constituent is a carcinogen therefore the risk level is set to one in a million. A cooking reduction factor of 1 is applied for skin-off fillets. (Klasing, S., and R. Brodberg, 2008)
Guideline Reference: Development of Fish Contaminant Goals and Advisory Tissue Levels for Common Contaminants in California Sport Fish: Chlordane, DDTs, Dieldrin, Methylmercury, PCBs, Selenium, and Toxaphene
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at three sites throughout San Pablo Bay.
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected every three years from May 1994 through September 2003.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: The 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances was used.
QAPP Information Reference(s): 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 66118, Toxaphene
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 93681
 
Pollutant: Toxaphene
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Tissue
Matrix: Tissue
Fraction: Shellfish
 
Beneficial Use: Shellfish Harvesting
 
Number of Samples: 0
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: Shellfish surveys
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Five samples were not used in the assessment because the laboratory data reporting limit(s) were above the objective and therefore the results could not be quantified with the level of certainty required by the Listing Policy.All composite samples were comprised of Crassostrea gigas or Mytilus californianus. Data were reported on a dry weight basis and were converted to a wet weight basis by multiplying the dry-weight concentration by a factor of 1 minus the percentage of moisture content expressed as a decimal.
Data Reference: Regional Monitoring Program data, Feb. 1993-Sep. 2008
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Francisco Bay Basin: Controllable water quality factors shall not cause a detrimental increase in concentrations of toxic substances found in bottom sediments or aquatic life. Effects on aquatic organisms, wildlife, and human health will be considered.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) San Francisco Bay Basin (Region 2)
 
Evaluation Guideline: The modified OEHHA Fish Contaminant Goal for toxaphene in shellfish tissue is 6.5 ppb. This screening level assumes an average body weight of 70 kg and a consumption rate of 21 g/day for a 30 year exposure over a 70-year lifetime. This constituent is a carcinogen therefore the risk level is set to one in a million. (Brodberg, R.K., and G.A. Pollock, 1999; Klasing, S., and R. Brodberg, 2008)
Guideline Reference: Prevalence of Selected Target Chemical Contaminants in Sport Fish From Two California Lakes: Public health designed screening study. Sacramento, CA: Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment
  Development of Fish Contaminant Goals and Advisory Tissue Levels for Common Contaminants in California Sport Fish: Chlordane, DDTs, Dieldrin, Methylmercury, PCBs, Selenium, and Toxaphene
 
Spatial Representation: Samples were collected at the following station: San Pablo Bay, BD30 - Pinole Point, and BD40 Davis Point.
Temporal Representation: Samples were collected fall seasons from years 2002 - 2003.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances.
QAPP Information Reference(s): 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances
 
 
DECISION ID
66787
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
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 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 is necessary to assess listing status.

Two lines of evidence are available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. Fifteen of fifty-one samples exceed the guideline. Zero of twenty-five water column toxicity samples exceed the evaluation guideline

Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is not 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. As explained in findings 3 and 4, the sediment toxicity data used do not satisfy the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy.
2. The data used satisfy the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy.
3. The Regional Board identified concerns about evaluating sediment quality based solely on toxicity data without consideration of sediment chemistry and benthic community condition; all three lines of evidence are referred to as the sediment quality triad. While the State has sediment quality objectives that incorporate all three lines of evidence (sediment chemistry, toxicity and benthic community condition), and these data exist for this waterbody, they could not be considered at this time because they were not available during the solicitation period. SQO data will be considered in future listing cycles. See also finding 8 below.

4 The Regional Board and general public identified concerns about the quality of toxicity data for which the amphipod Eohaustorius estuarius was the test organism because peer-reviewed scientific literature has revealed that this test organism can be impacted by the presence of naturally occurring clay in the sample, which is common in many Bay sediments.
5. Fifteen of fifty-one sediment toxicity samples exceed the guideline and this exceeds the allowable frequency listed in Table 3.1 of the Listing Policy, but these data are not considered sufficient information on which to base a defensible listing determination for toxicity as described in findings 3 and 4.
6. Zero of twenty-five samples exceed the water column toxicity evaluation guideline and this does not exceed the allowable frequency listed in Table 3.1 of the Listing Policy.
7. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.

8. The Listing Policy requires listing for toxicity only if the toxicity is associated with a pollutant, but the Policy provides the Regional Boards the option to list in circumstances in which the toxicity is not associated with a pollutant. Based on the data quantity and quality concerns summarized in findings 3 and 4, the Regional Board does not recommend listing this waterbody for toxicity.
 
Regional Board Decision Recommendation: After review of the available data and information, RWQCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should not be placed on the section 303(d) list because applicable water quality standards are not being exceeded.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 66787, Toxicity
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 95810
 
Pollutant: Toxicity
LOE Subgroup: Toxicity
Matrix: Sediment
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Estuarine Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 51
Number of Exceedances: 15
 
Data and Information Type: TOXICITY TESTING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Fifteen of the 51 samples exhibited toxicity. A sample may have multiple toxicity test results but will be counted only once. A sample is defined as being collected on the same day at the same location with the same lab sample id (if provided).

The following test organisms and parameters were utilized for the toxicity tests: Eohaustorius estuarius (mean % survival), 1993-2008; Mytilus edulis (mean % normal alive), 1993-1995, 1997; Mytilus galloprovincialis (mean % normal alive), 1998-2001, 2005-08; and Strongylocentrotus purpuratus (mean % normal development), 1998. The following samples exhibited toxicity: Eohaustorius estuarius collected 1993-94, 2003, 2005-08; Mytilus edulis, collected 1997; Mytilus galloprovincialis collected 2005, 2007-08.

Additional results were not included in the assessment due to control results of less than 90 percent for test parameter.
Data Reference: Regional Monitoring Program data, Feb. 1993-Sep. 2008
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: All waters shall be maintained free of toxic substances in concentrations that are toxic to, or that produce detrimental physiological responses in, human, plant, animal, or aquatic life. Region 2 Basin Plan.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) - San Francisco Bay Region (Region 2)
 
Evaluation Guideline: Toxicity is defined as a significant reduction of test organism relative to the control (alpha < 0.01) and test organism survival is 80% or less than the control survival (at least 20% effect).
Guideline Reference: SWAMP_Memo_Toxicity_Data_Intrepretation
  Methods for Assessing the Toxicity of Sediment-associated Contaminants with Estuarine and Marine Amphipods. June 1994. EPA 600/R-94/025
  Short-term Methods for Estimating the Chronic Toxicity of Effluents and Receiving Waters to West Coast Marine and Estuarine Organisms. EPA/600/R-95-136.
 
Spatial Representation: Samples were collected at sites BD31, BD41, SPB001S, SPB002S, SPB003S, SPB004S, SPB005S, SPB007S, SPB009S, SPB011S, SPB013S, SPB015S, SPB017S, SPB019S, SPB021S, SPB023S, SPB025S, SPB027S, SPB029S,
SPB031S, SPB037S, SPB038S, SPB039S, and SPB040S.
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected twice each year (generally winter and summer) from 1993-99, and during the summers of 2000-08.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Data collected after 1999 follows the San Francisco Estuary Institute 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances.
QAPP Information Reference(s): 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 66787, Toxicity
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 95796
 
Pollutant: Toxicity
LOE Subgroup: Toxicity
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Estuarine Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 25
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: TOXICITY TESTING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Zero of the 25 samples exhibited toxicity. A sample may have multiple toxicity test results but will be counted only once. A sample is defined as being collected on the same day at the same location with the same lab sample id (if provided).

The following test organisms and parameters were utilized for the toxicity tests: Thalassiosira pseudonana (cell count), 1993; Crassostrea gigas (mean % normal development),1993; Mytilus edulis (mean % normal development), 1993 and 1995-97; Americamysis bahia - formerly Mysidopsis bahia (mean % survival), 1994-2000, 2002, and 2007.

Additional results were not included in the assessment due to percent survival or percent normal development of less than 90 percent for the control.
Data Reference: Regional Monitoring Program data, Feb. 1993-Sep. 2008
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: All waters shall be maintained free of toxic substances in concentrations that are toxic to, or that produce detrimental physiological responses in, human, plant, animal, or aquatic life. Region 2 Basin Plan.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) - San Francisco Bay Region (Region 2)
 
Evaluation Guideline: Toxicity is defined as a significant reduction of test organism relative to the control (alpha < 0.05) and test organism survival is 80% or less than the control survival (at least 20% effect).
Guideline Reference: SWAMP_Memo_Toxicity_Data_Intrepretation
  Method 1007.0: Mysid, Mysidopsis bahia, Survival, Growth, and Fecundity Test; Chronic Toxicity. Excerpt from: Short-Term Methods for Estimating the Chronic Toxicity of Effluents and Receiving Waters to Marine and Estuarine Organisms. 3rd edition EPA-821-R-02-014
  Short-Term Methods for Estimating the Chronic Toxicity of Effluents and Receiving Water to Marine and Estuarine Organisms. EPA/600/4-91-003.
 
Spatial Representation: Samples were collected at sites BD15, BD30, SPB001W, SPB003W, and SPB021W.
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected twice each year (generally winter and summer) from 1993-2001, and during the summers of 2002 and 2007.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Data collected after 1999 follows the San Francisco Estuary Institute 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances.
QAPP Information Reference(s): 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances
 
 
DECISION ID
66119
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
Pollutant: Tributyltin TBT (Tributylstanne)
Final Listing Decision: Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: New Decision
Revision Status Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: This pollutant is being considered for placement on the CWA section 303(d) List under section 3.1 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.1 a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status.

One line of evidence is available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. Zero of the 41 samples exceed the GUIDELINE.

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

This conclusion is based on the staff findings that:
1. The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy.
2. The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy.
3. Zero of the 41 samples exceed 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 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 66119, Tributyltin TBT (Tributylstanne)
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 93706
 
Pollutant: Tributyltin TBT (Tributylstanne)
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Tissue
Matrix: Tissue
Fraction: Shellfish
 
Beneficial Use: Shellfish Harvesting
 
Number of Samples: 41
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: Shellfish surveys
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: None of the 41 samples exceeded the guideline. Composite samples were comprised of Crassostrea gigas or Mytilus californianus. Data were reported on a dry weight basis and were converted to a wet weight basis by multiplying the dry-weight concentration by a factor of 1 minus the percentage of moisture content expressed as a decimal. If a dry weight result did not have a corresponding moisture result for conversion to wet weight, the sample was not included in the assessment. Laboratory replicates were averaged. Two samples were not used in the assessment because the laboratory data reporting limit was above the objective and therefore the results could not be quantified with the level of certainty required by the Listing Policy.
Data Reference: Regional Monitoring Program data, Feb. 1993-Sep. 2008
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan for the San Francisco Bay Basin: Controllable water quality factors shall not cause a detrimental increase in concentrations of toxic substances found in bottom sediments or aquatic life. Effects on aquatic organisms, wildlife, and human health will be considered.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) San Francisco Bay Basin (Region 2)
 
Evaluation Guideline: The modified OEHHA Fish Contaminant Goal for tributyltin in shellfish tissue is 1 ppm. This screening level assumes an average body weight of 70 kg and a consumption rate of 21 g/day. (Brodberg, R.K., and G.A. Pollock, 1999; Klasing, S., and R. Brodberg, 2008; USEPA, 2000)
Guideline Reference: Prevalence of Selected Target Chemical Contaminants in Sport Fish From Two California Lakes: Public health designed screening study. Sacramento, CA: Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment
  Development of Fish Contaminant Goals and Advisory Tissue Levels for Common Contaminants in California Sport Fish: Chlordane, DDTs, Dieldrin, Methylmercury, PCBs, Selenium, and Toxaphene
  Guidance for Assessing Chemical Contaminant Data for Use In Fish Advisories Volume 1: Fish Sampling and Analysis
 
Spatial Representation: Samples were collected at the following stations: BD20 - San Pablo Bay, BD30 - Pinole Point, and BD40 - Davis Point.
Temporal Representation: Samples were generally collected in spring and fall seasons from years 1993 - 1999 and then fall 2000, 2001, and 2008.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances.
QAPP Information Reference(s): 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances
 
 
DECISION ID
66120
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
Pollutant: Zinc
Final Listing Decision: Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: New Decision
Revision Status Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: This pollutant is being considered for placement on the CWA section 303(d) List under section 3.1 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.

Zero of the 94 samples exceed the OBJECTIVE to protect aquatic life in saline water .
Zero of the 97 samples exceed the CRITERIA for the protection of human health from consumption of fish only.

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

This conclusion is based on the staff findings that:
1. The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy.
2. The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy.
3. Zero of the 94 samples exceed the OBJECTIVE to protect aquatic life in saline water and zero of the 97 samples exceed the CRITERIA for the protection of human health from consumption of fish only and this does not exceed the allowable frequency listed in Table 3.1 of the Listing Policy.
4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.
 
Regional Board Decision Recommendation: After review of the available data and information, RWQCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should not be placed on the section 303(d) list because applicable water quality standards are not being exceeded.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 66120, Zinc
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 93189
 
Pollutant: Zinc
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Commercial or recreational collection of fish, shellfish, or organisms
 
Number of Samples: 97
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: State Water Board staff assessed SFEI data for San Pablo Bay to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 97 samples exceed the criterion for Zinc.
Data Reference: Regional Monitoring Program data, Feb. 1993-Sep. 2008
 
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 (Basin Plan) San Francisco Bay Basin (Region 2)
 
Evaluation Guideline: The Zinc criteria for the protection of human health from consumption of fish only is 26000 ug/L (National Recommended Water Quality Criteria, 2009).
Guideline Reference: National Recommended Water Quality Criteria. United States Environmental Protection Agency. Office of Water. Office of Science and Technology
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for San Pablo Bay was collected at 29 monitoring sites [ Petaluma River - BD15, Pinole Point - BD30, Davis Point - BD40, San Pablo Bay - SPB001W, San Pablo Bay - SPB002W, San Pablo Bay - SPB003W, San Pablo Bay - SPB004W, San Pablo Bay - SPB005W, San Pablo Bay - SPB006W, San Pablo Bay - SPB007W, San Pablo Bay - SPB008W, San Pablo Bay - SPB009W, San Pablo Bay - SPB010W, San Pablo Bay - SPB011W, San Pablo Bay - SPB012W, San Pablo Bay - SPB013W, San Pablo Bay - SPB014W, San Pablo Bay - SPB015W, San Pablo Bay - SPB016W, San Pablo Bay - SPB017W, San Pablo Bay - SPB018W, San Pablo Bay - SPB019W, San Pablo Bay - SPB020W, San Pablo Bay - SPB021W, San Pablo Bay - SPB022W, San Pablo Bay - SPB023W, San Pablo Bay - SPB024W, San Pablo Bay - SPB025W, San Pablo Bay - SPB026W]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 3/4/1993-7/14/2008.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: The 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances was used.
QAPP Information Reference(s): 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 66120, Zinc
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 93190
 
Pollutant: Zinc
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Estuarine Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 94
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: State Water Board staff assessed SFEI data for San Pablo Bay to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 94 samples exceed the criterion for Zinc.
Data Reference: Regional Monitoring Program data, Feb. 1993-Sep. 2008
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The dissolved zinc criterion continuous concentration (expressed as a 4-day average) to protect aquatic life in saline water is 0.081 mg/L (California Toxics Rule, 2000).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Code of Federal Regulations 40 part 131.38 Establishment of numeric criteria for priority toxic pollutants for the State of California. 7/1/2011 Edition
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for San Pablo Bay was collected at 29 monitoring sites [ Petaluma River - BD15, Pinole Point - BD30, Davis Point - BD40, San Pablo Bay - SPB001W, San Pablo Bay - SPB002W, San Pablo Bay - SPB003W, San Pablo Bay - SPB004W, San Pablo Bay - SPB005W, San Pablo Bay - SPB006W, San Pablo Bay - SPB007W, San Pablo Bay - SPB008W, San Pablo Bay - SPB009W, San Pablo Bay - SPB010W, San Pablo Bay - SPB011W, San Pablo Bay - SPB012W, San Pablo Bay - SPB013W, San Pablo Bay - SPB014W, San Pablo Bay - SPB015W, San Pablo Bay - SPB016W, San Pablo Bay - SPB017W, San Pablo Bay - SPB018W, San Pablo Bay - SPB019W, San Pablo Bay - SPB020W, San Pablo Bay - SPB021W, San Pablo Bay - SPB022W, San Pablo Bay - SPB023W, San Pablo Bay - SPB024W, San Pablo Bay - SPB025W, San Pablo Bay - SPB026W]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 3/4/1993-7/14/2008.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: The 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances was used.
QAPP Information Reference(s): 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances
 
 
DECISION ID
66033
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
Pollutant: alpha-Endosulfan (Endosulfan 1)
Final Listing Decision: Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: New Decision
Revision Status Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: This pollutant is being considered for placement on the CWA section 303(d) List under section 3.1 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.1 a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status.

One lines of evidence are available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. Zero of the 70 samples exceed the OBJECTIVE.

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

This conclusion is based on the staff findings that:
1. The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy.
2. The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy.
3. Zero of the 70 samples exceeded the OBJECTIVE and this does not exceed the allowable frequency listed in Table 3.1 of the Listing Policy.
4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.
 
Regional Board Decision Recommendation: After review of the available data and information, RWQCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should not be placed on the section 303(d) list because applicable water quality standards are not being exceeded.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 66033, alpha-Endosulfan (Endosulfan 1)
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 93130
 
Pollutant: alpha-Endosulfan (Endosulfan 1)
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Commercial or recreational collection of fish, shellfish, or organisms
 
Number of Samples: 70
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: State Water Board staff assessed SFEI data for San Pablo Bay to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 70 samples exceed the criterion for Endosulfan I.
Data Reference: Regional Monitoring Program data, Feb. 1993-Sep. 2008
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Endosulfan I criteria for the protection of human health from consumption of organisms only is 240 ug/L (California Toxics Rule, 2000).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Code of Federal Regulations 40 part 131.38 Establishment of numeric criteria for priority toxic pollutants for the State of California. 7/1/2011 Edition
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for San Pablo Bay was collected at 11 monitoring sites [ Petaluma River - BD15, Pinole Point - BD30, Davis Point - BD40, San Pablo Bay - SPB013W, San Pablo Bay - SPB015W, San Pablo Bay - SPB017W, San Pablo Bay - SPB018W, San Pablo Bay - SPB019W, San Pablo Bay - SPB020W, San Pablo Bay - SPB022W, San Pablo Bay - SPB023W]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 3/4/1993-8/9/2007.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: The 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances was used.
QAPP Information Reference(s): 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances
 
 
DECISION ID
66052
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
Pollutant: beta-Endosulfan (Endosulfan 2)
Final Listing Decision: Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: New Decision
Revision Status Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: This pollutant is being considered for placement on the CWA section 303(d) List under section 3.1 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.1 a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status.

One line of evidence is available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. Zero of the 66 samples exceed the OBJECTIVE.

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

This conclusion is based on the staff findings that:
1. The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy.
2. The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy.
3. Zero of 66 samples exceeded the OBJECTIVE and this does not exceed the allowable frequency listed in Table 3.1 of the Listing Policy.
4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.
 
Regional Board Decision Recommendation: After review of the available data and information, RWQCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should not be placed on the section 303(d) list because applicable water quality standards are not being exceeded.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 66052, beta-Endosulfan (Endosulfan 2)
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 93135
 
Pollutant: beta-Endosulfan (Endosulfan 2)
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Commercial or recreational collection of fish, shellfish, or organisms
 
Number of Samples: 66
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: State Water Board staff assessed SFEI data for San Pablo Bay to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 66 samples exceed the criterion for Endosulfan II.
Data Reference: Regional Monitoring Program data, Feb. 1993-Sep. 2008
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Endosulfan II criteria for the protection of human health from consumption of organisms only is 240 ug/L (California Toxics Rule, 2000).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Code of Federal Regulations 40 part 131.38 Establishment of numeric criteria for priority toxic pollutants for the State of California. 7/1/2011 Edition
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Data for this line of evidence for San Pablo Bay was collected at 10 monitoring sites [ Petaluma River - BD15, Pinole Point - BD30, Davis Point - BD40, San Pablo Bay - SPB015W, San Pablo Bay - SPB017W, San Pablo Bay - SPB018W, San Pablo Bay - SPB019W, San Pablo Bay - SPB020W, San Pablo Bay - SPB022W, San Pablo Bay - SPB023W]
Temporal Representation: Data was collected over the time period 2/7/1994-8/9/2007.
Environmental Conditions: Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: The 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances was used.
QAPP Information Reference(s): 1999 Quality Assurance Project Plan Regional Monitoring Program for Trace Substances
 
 
DECISION ID
32789
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
Pollutant: Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers (PBDEs)
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 Conclusion: This pollutant is being considered for listing under sections 2.1 and 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. It cannot be determined if the pollutant is likely to exceed the narrative water quality objective. Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is not sufficient justification in favor of placing this water segment-pollutant combination on the section 303(d) list in the Water Quality Limited Segments category. This conclusion is based on the staff findings that: 1. An evaluation guideline is not available that complies with the requirements of section 6.1.3 of the Policy. 2. The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy. 3. The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy. 4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.
 
Regional Board Decision Recommendation: This is a decision previously approved by the State Water Resources Control Board and the USEPA. No new data were assessed by the Regional Board for the current. The decision has not changed.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 32789, Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers (PBDEs)
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 64
 
Pollutant: Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers (PBDEs)
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Tissue
Matrix: Not Specified
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Estuarine Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 0
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: Not Specified
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: 2004 List Comments:

Numeric information, along with circumstantial, anecdotal, and non-specific referenced evidence, was submitted in 2004 with the request that the San Francisco Bay (presumably San Pablo Bay; San Francisco Bay, Central; San Francisco Bay, South; San Francisco Bay, Lower; and/or Suisun Bay) be listed for the PBDE family of flame retardant chemicals.

Otherwise informative studies based on findings from other states and other countries (Sweden) cannot, by themselves, provide sufficient evidence to list a pollutant for a California water body. Instead, this data provides background information only.

Data on contamination by PBDEs of human (breast) tissue from residents in and around the Bay is not usable for listing those water bodies due to the fact that there is no way to meaningfully link such contamination directly to water quality and to a particular water body.

Similarly, the presence of PBDEs in eggs and seal tissues is unfortunately inadequate to list. Again, the problem is the relationship between PBDEs and any human health effects. SWRCB staff is unable to determine exactly where birds nests and seal carcasses were sampled in relation to the five Bay area water bodies. Even if specific sample sites could be established, the question remains: how direct is the relationship between the presence of a pollutant, in this case PBDEs in the tissues of a widely ranging species, and the water of a specific water body. This is not the case when filter-feeding organisms (e.g., mussels and clams) or organisms that forage locally exclusively are used.

While some data presented was from local fish species, the volume and reliability of the data is questionable. Leopard shark, halibut, striped bass, and other species may move considerable distances before being captured, blurring the relationship between pollutants in the body and the water body of capture. The 'tainted catch' report summarized the problem facing water quality investigators: 'PBDE levels varied widely among fish species and between individuals of the same species,' in part due to 'location in the Bay.'
Data Reference: Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Basin Plan: Many pollutants can accumulate on particles, in sediment, or bioaccumulate in fish or other aquatic organisms. Controllable water quality factors shall not cause a detrimental increase in concentrations of toxic substances found in bottom sediments or aquatic life. Effects on aquatic organisms, wildlife, and human health will be considered.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)
 
Evaluation Guideline: None available. SWRCB remains unaware of any reliable criterion or guideline of use in evaluating the magnitude of the data provided.
Guideline Reference: Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)
 
Spatial Representation: Unknown.
Temporal Representation: Multiple studies are cited (e.g., California studies: She et al., 2002). PBDEs in the San Francisco Bay Area: measurements in harbor seal blubber and human breast adipose tissue. Chemosphere 46(2002): 697-707; Petreas et al., 2003. High Body Burdens of 2,2',4,4'-Tetrabromodiphenyl Ether (BDE-47) in California Women. Environ. Heath Perspect. 111(9): 1175-1179; She et al., 2003. High PBDE Levels in Shorebird Eggs from the San Francisco Bay and Washington State. Proceedings. 2003 Georgia Basin/Puget Sound Research Conference.)
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: QA Info Missing
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 32789, Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers (PBDEs)
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 65
 
Pollutant: Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers (PBDEs)
LOE Subgroup: Testimonial Evidence
Matrix: -N/A
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Estuarine Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 0
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: Not Specified
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: 2002 List Fact Sheet Information:

PBDEs research literature will be reviewed by the RWQCB to ascertain any new information on actual effects thresholds for these persistent bioaccumulative substances in the next listing cycle. These actions can be conducted regionally through the RMP, the Bay Area Pollution Prevention Group, or other association of dischargers. During the subsequent listing cycle, RWQCB staff evaluation of current research, applicable water quality criteria, and local actions to characterize sources and pollution prevention of PBDEs will determine whether a listing is needed.
Data Reference: Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Basin Plan Narrative Objectives:

"Many pollutants can accumulate on particles, in sediment, or bioaccumulate in fish or other aquatic organisms. Controllable water quality factors shall not cause a detrimental increase in concentrations of toxic substances found in bottom sediments or aquatic life. Effects on aquatic organisms, wildlife, and human health will be considered."

"Controllable water quality factors shall not cause a detrimental increase in the concentrations of toxic pollutants in sediments or aquatic life."
Objective/Criterion Reference: Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation:
Temporal Representation:
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: QA Info Missing
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
 
DECISION ID
33987
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
Pollutant: Dioxin compounds (including 2,3,7,8-TCDD)
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: 2019
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: 303(d) listing decisions made prior to 2006 were not held in an assessment database. The Regional Boards will update this decision when new data and information become available and are assessed.
 
Regional Board Decision Recommendation: This is a decision previously approved by the State Water Resources Control Board and the USEPA. No new data were assessed by the Regional Board for the current. The decision has not changed.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 33987, Dioxin compounds (including 2,3,7,8-TCDD)
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 3687
 
Pollutant: Dioxin compounds (including 2,3,7,8-TCDD)
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Tissue
Matrix: Tissue
Fraction: Not Recorded
 
Beneficial Use: Commercial or recreational collection of fish, shellfish, or organisms
 
Number of Samples: 0
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: Not Specified
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Unspecified--This LOE is a placeholder to support a 303(d) listing decision made prior to 2006.
Data Reference: Placeholder reference pre-2006 303(d)
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion:
Objective/Criterion Reference:
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Unspecified
Temporal Representation: Unspecified
Environmental Conditions: Unspecified
QAPP Information: Unspecified
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
 
DECISION ID
34598
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
Pollutant: Furan Compounds
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: 2019
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: 303(d) listing decisions made prior to 2006 were not held in an assessment database. The Regional Boards will update this decision when new data and information become available and are assessed.
 
Regional Board Decision Recommendation: This is a decision previously approved by the State Water Resources Control Board and the USEPA. No new data were assessed by the Regional Board for the current. The decision has not changed.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 34598, Furan Compounds
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 3689
 
Pollutant: Furan Compounds
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Tissue
Matrix: Tissue
Fraction: Not Recorded
 
Beneficial Use: Commercial or recreational collection of fish, shellfish, or organisms
 
Number of Samples: 0
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: Not Specified
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Unspecified--This LOE is a placeholder to support a 303(d) listing decision made prior to 2006.
Data Reference: Placeholder reference pre-2006 303(d)
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Unspecified
Objective/Criterion Reference: Placeholder reference pre-2006 303(d)
 
Evaluation Guideline: Unspecified
Guideline Reference: Placeholder reference pre-2006 303(d)
 
Spatial Representation: Unspecified
Temporal Representation: Unspecified
Environmental Conditions: Unspecified
QAPP Information: Unspecified
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
 
DECISION ID
42776
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
Pollutant: Invasive Species
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: 2019
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: 303(d) listing decisions made prior to 2006 were not held in an assessment database. The Regional Boards will update this decision when new data and information become available and are assessed.
 
Regional Board Decision Recommendation: This is a decision previously approved by the State Water Resources Control Board and the USEPA. No new data were assessed by the Regional Board for the current. The decision has not changed.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 42776, Invasive Species
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 3688
 
Pollutant: Invasive Species
LOE Subgroup: Population/Community Degradation
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Not Recorded
 
Beneficial Use: Estuarine Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 0
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: Not Specified
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Unspecified--This LOE is a placeholder to support a 303(d) listing decision made prior to 2006.
Data Reference: Placeholder reference pre-2006 303(d)
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion:
Objective/Criterion Reference:
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Unspecified
Temporal Representation: Unspecified
Environmental Conditions: Unspecified
QAPP Information: Unspecified
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
 
DECISION ID
34398
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
Pollutant: PCBs (Polychlorinated biphenyls) (dioxin-like)
Final Listing Decision: List on 303(d) list (being addressed by USEPA approved TMDL)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)(2012)
Revision Status Original
Sources: Source Unknown
TMDL Name: San Francisco Bay PCBs
TMDL Project Code: 7
Date TMDL Approved by USEPA: 03/29/2010
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: 303(d) listing decisions made prior to 2006 were not held in an assessment database. The Regional Boards will update this decision when new data and information become available and are assessed.
 
Regional Board Decision Recommendation: This is a decision previously approved by the State Water Resources Control Board and the USEPA. No new data were assessed by the Regional Board for the current. The decision has not changed.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 34398, PCBs (Polychlorinated biphenyls) (dioxin-like)
Region 2     
San Pablo Bay
 
LOE ID: 3693
 
Pollutant: PCBs (Polychlorinated biphenyls) (dioxin-like)
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Tissue
Matrix: Tissue
Fraction: Not Recorded
 
Beneficial Use: Commercial or recreational collection of fish, shellfish, or organisms
 
Number of Samples: 0
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: Not Specified
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Unspecified--This LOE is a placeholder to support a 303(d) listing decision made prior to 2006.
Data Reference: Placeholder reference pre-2006 303(d)
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Unspecified
Objective/Criterion Reference: Placeholder reference pre-2006 303(d)
 
Evaluation Guideline: Unspecified
Guideline Reference: Placeholder reference pre-2006 303(d)
 
Spatial Representation: Unspecified
Temporal Representation: Unspecified
Environmental Conditions: Unspecified
QAPP Information: Unspecified
QAPP Information Reference(s):