Final California 2012 Integrated Report( 303(d) List/305(b) Report)

Supporting Information

Regional Board 2 - San Francisco Bay Region

Water Body Name: San Francisco Bay, Lower
Water Body ID: CAB2041001019980925131322
Water Body Type: Bay & Harbor
 
DECISION ID
18303
Region 2     
San Francisco Bay, Lower
 
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)(2010)
Revision Status Original
Reason for Delisting: Applicable WQS attained; reason for recovery unspecified
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: Region 2 data was not included in the 2012 Integrated Report so all decisions are carried over from the 2010 listing cycle.
 
Regional Board Decision Recommendation: No new data were assessed for 2012. The decision has not changed.
 
State Board Staff Review of Regional Board Conclusion and Recommendation:
 
State Board Decision Recommendation: After review of this Regional Board decision, SWRCB staff recommend the decision be approved by the State Board.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 18303, Diazinon
Region 2     
San Francisco Bay, Lower
 
LOE ID: 17
 
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 18303, Diazinon
Region 2     
San Francisco Bay, Lower
 
LOE ID: 20
 
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: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Seventeen samples, pollutant range: 52-9,537 pg/L, average: 2,600.1 (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 draft water quality criteria of 820 ng/L (acute) and 400 ng/L (chronic). The use of these values may not comply all the requirements of section 6.1.3 of the Listing Policy.
Guideline Reference: Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)
 
Spatial Representation: One sample site.
Temporal Representation: Date Range: 2/3/94-8/3/01.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: SFEI RMP QA/QC program.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 18303, Diazinon
Region 2     
San Francisco Bay, Lower
 
LOE ID: 19
 
Pollutant: Diazinon
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Estuarine Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 15
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: Not Specified
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: None of the 15 samples exceeded, pollutant range: 620-9,500 pg/L, average: 2,801.1 (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 draft water quality criteria of 820 ng/L (acute) and 400 ng/L (chronic). The use of these values may not comply all the requirements of section 6.1.3 of the Listing Policy.
Guideline Reference: Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)
 
Spatial Representation: One sample site.
Temporal Representation: Date Range: 2/3/94-8/3/01.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: SFEI RMP QA/QC program.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 18303, Diazinon
Region 2     
San Francisco Bay, Lower
 
LOE ID: 18
 
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 those which were observed in February and May of 1998. The magnitude of toxicity (as reflected by the degree [or percentage] of test organism mortality) is also markedly reduced in the later years, indicating a reduction in the degree of ambient water toxicity. Subsequent RMP monitoring of ambient water toxicity in water samples collected from 10/2001 through 4/2003 also indicated an absence of toxicity to the test organisms (Ogle, 2004).
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):
 
 
DECISION ID
20060
Region 2     
San Francisco Bay, Lower
 
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)(2010)
Revision Status Original
Reason for Delisting: Applicable WQS attained; reason for recovery unspecified
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: Region 2 data was not included in the 2012 Integrated Report so all decisions are carried over from the 2010 listing cycle.
 
Regional Board Decision Recommendation: No new data were assessed for 2012. The decision has not changed.
 
State Board Staff Review of Regional Board Conclusion and Recommendation:
 
State Board Decision Recommendation: After review of this Regional Board decision, SWRCB staff recommend the decision be approved by the State Board.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 20060, Nickel
Region 2     
San Francisco Bay, Lower
 
LOE ID: 21
 
Pollutant: Nickel
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: Taken from the San Francisco Bay Estuary Institute (SFEI) - Regional Monitoring Program (RMP). None of the 70 samples exceeded the site-specific water quality objective
Data Reference: Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Regional Water Board Basin Plan contains water quality objectives for nickel in San Francisco Bay - Lower of 8.2ug/l, 4-day average and, 74ug/l 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: Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: 21 sampling locations
Temporal Representation: Samples were taken from 1993 to 2003 with three samples taken each year, on average. A total of 70 samples were taken during the aforementioned time period.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: SFEI RMP OA/QC program
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
 
DECISION ID
18234
Region 2     
San Francisco Bay, Lower
 
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)(2010)
Revision Status Original
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: Region 2 data was not included in the 2012 Integrated Report so all decisions are carried over from the 2010 listing cycle.
 
Regional Board Decision Recommendation: No new data were assessed for 2012. The decision has not changed.
 
State Board Staff Review of Regional Board Conclusion and Recommendation:
 
State Board Decision Recommendation: After review of this Regional Board decision, SWRCB staff recommend the decision be approved by the State Board.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 18234, Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers (PBDEs)
Region 2     
San Francisco Bay, Lower
 
LOE ID: 16
 
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):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 18234, Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers (PBDEs)
Region 2     
San Francisco Bay, Lower
 
LOE ID: 15
 
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.

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. The presence of PBDEs in eggs and seal tissues is also inadequate to list a water body.

The report does not specify where bird's nests and seal carcasses were sampled in relation to the five Bay area water bodies. Even if specific sample sites were included, it would be difficult to determine the relationship between the presence of PBDEs in the tissues of a widely ranging species, and the water of a specific water body. It is easier to establish this link when the tissues of filter-feeding organisms (e.g., mussels and clams) or organisms that forage locally are exclusively 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, making it difficult to establish a relationship between pollutants in tissue and the water body of capture. The 'tainted catch' report states: '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 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: None available.
Guideline Reference: Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)
 
Spatial Representation:
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):
 
 
DECISION ID
19529
Region 2     
San Francisco Bay, Lower
 
Pollutant: Chlordane
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)(2010)
Revision Status Original
Sources: Source Unknown
Expected TMDL Completion Date: 2013
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: Region 2 data was not included in the 2012 Integrated Report so all decisions are carried over from the 2010 listing cycle.
 
Regional Board Decision Recommendation: No new data were assessed for 2012. The decision has not changed.
 
State Board Staff Review of Regional Board Conclusion and Recommendation:
 
State Board Decision Recommendation: After review of this Regional Board decision, SWRCB staff recommend the decision be approved by the State Board.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 19529, Chlordane
Region 2     
San Francisco Bay, Lower
 
LOE ID: 3833
 
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
19530
Region 2     
San Francisco Bay, Lower
 
Pollutant: DDT (Dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane)
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)(2010)
Revision Status Original
Sources: Source Unknown
Expected TMDL Completion Date: 2013
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: Region 2 data was not included in the 2012 Integrated Report so all decisions are carried over from the 2010 listing cycle.
 
Regional Board Decision Recommendation: No new data were assessed for 2012. The decision has not changed.
 
State Board Staff Review of Regional Board Conclusion and Recommendation:
 
State Board Decision Recommendation: After review of this Regional Board decision, SWRCB staff recommend the decision be approved by the State Board.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 19530, DDT (Dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane)
Region 2     
San Francisco Bay, Lower
 
LOE ID: 3834
 
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: 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
30352
Region 2     
San Francisco Bay, Lower
 
Pollutant: Dieldrin
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)(2010)
Revision Status Original
Sources: Source Unknown
Expected TMDL Completion Date: 2013
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: Region 2 data was not included in the 2012 Integrated Report so all decisions are carried over from the 2010 listing cycle.
 
Regional Board Decision Recommendation: No new data were assessed for 2012. The decision has not changed.
 
State Board Staff Review of Regional Board Conclusion and Recommendation:
 
State Board Decision Recommendation: After review of this Regional Board decision, SWRCB staff recommend the decision be approved by the State Board.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 30352, Dieldrin
Region 2     
San Francisco Bay, Lower
 
LOE ID: 3835
 
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):
 
 
DECISION ID
20252
Region 2     
San Francisco Bay, Lower
 
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)(2010)
Revision Status Original
Sources: Source Unknown
Expected TMDL Completion Date: 2019
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: Region 2 data was not included in the 2012 Integrated Report so all decisions are carried over from the 2010 listing cycle.
 
Regional Board Decision Recommendation: No new data were assessed for 2012. The Regional Board will update this decision when new data and information become available and are assessed.
 
State Board Staff Review of Regional Board Conclusion and Recommendation:
 
State Board Decision Recommendation: After review of this Regional Board decision, SWRCB staff recommend the decision be approved by the State Board.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 20252, Dioxin compounds (including 2,3,7,8-TCDD)
Region 2     
San Francisco Bay, Lower
 
LOE ID: 3836
 
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: 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
20254
Region 2     
San Francisco Bay, Lower
 
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)(2010)
Revision Status Original
Sources: Source Unknown
Expected TMDL Completion Date: 2019
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: Region 2 data was not included in the 2012 Integrated Report so all decisions are carried over from the 2010 listing cycle.
 
Regional Board Decision Recommendation: No new data were assessed for 2012. The Regional Board will update this decision when new data and information become available and are assessed.
 
State Board Staff Review of Regional Board Conclusion and Recommendation:
 
State Board Decision Recommendation: After review of this Regional Board decision, SWRCB staff recommend the decision be approved by the State Board.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 20254, Furan Compounds
Region 2     
San Francisco Bay, Lower
 
LOE ID: 3838
 
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
20253
Region 2     
San Francisco Bay, Lower
 
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)(2010)
Revision Status Original
Sources: Source Unknown
Expected TMDL Completion Date: 2019
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: Region 2 data was not included in the 2012 Integrated Report so all decisions are carried over from the 2010 listing cycle.
 
Regional Board Decision Recommendation: No new data were assessed for 2012. The decision has not changed.
 
State Board Staff Review of Regional Board Conclusion and Recommendation:
 
State Board Decision Recommendation: After review of this Regional Board decision, SWRCB staff recommend the decision be approved by the State Board.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 20253, Invasive Species
Region 2     
San Francisco Bay, Lower
 
LOE ID: 3837
 
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
20255
Region 2     
San Francisco Bay, Lower
 
Pollutant: PCBs (Polychlorinated biphenyls)
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)(2010)
Revision Status Original
Sources: Source Unknown
Expected TMDL Completion Date: 2008
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: Region 2 data was not included in the 2012 Integrated Report so all decisions are carried over from the 2010 listing cycle.
 
Regional Board Decision Recommendation: No new data were assessed for 2012. The decision has not changed.
 
State Board Staff Review of Regional Board Conclusion and Recommendation:
 
State Board Decision Recommendation: After review of this Regional Board decision, SWRCB staff recommend the decision be approved by the State Board.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 20255, PCBs (Polychlorinated biphenyls)
Region 2     
San Francisco Bay, Lower
 
LOE ID: 3840
 
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):
 
 
DECISION ID
30068
Region 2     
San Francisco Bay, Lower
 
Pollutant: PCBs (Polychlorinated biphenyls) (dioxin-like)
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)(2010)
Revision Status Original
Sources: Source Unknown
Expected TMDL Completion Date: 2008
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: Region 2 data was not included in the 2012 Integrated Report so all decisions are carried over from the 2010 listing cycle.
 
Regional Board Decision Recommendation: No new data were assessed for 2012. The decision has not changed.
 
State Board Staff Review of Regional Board Conclusion and Recommendation:
 
State Board Decision Recommendation: After review of this Regional Board decision, SWRCB staff recommend the decision be approved by the State Board.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 30068, PCBs (Polychlorinated biphenyls) (dioxin-like)
Region 2     
San Francisco Bay, Lower
 
LOE ID: 3841
 
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):
 
 
DECISION ID
30116
Region 2     
San Francisco Bay, Lower
 
Pollutant: Trash
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)(2010)
Revision Status Original
Sources: Source Unknown
Expected TMDL Completion Date: 2021
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: Region 2 data was not included in the 2012 Integrated Report so all decisions are carried over from the 2010 listing cycle.
 
Regional Board Decision Recommendation: After review of the available evidence, Water Board staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should be placed on the section 303(d) list because applicable water quality standards are not met and trash contributes to or causes the problem. The evidence for this listing comes from photographic evidence taken on the shoreline so the listing currently pertains to shoreline areas of this waterbody.
 
State Board Staff Review of Regional Board Conclusion and Recommendation:
 
State Board Decision Recommendation: After review of this Regional Board decision, SWRCB staff recommend the decision be approved by the State Board.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 30116, Trash
Region 2     
San Francisco Bay, Lower
 
LOE ID: 5511
 
Pollutant: Trash
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Nuisance
Matrix: Not Specified
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Non-Contact Recreation
 
Number of Samples: 5
Number of Exceedances: 3
 
Data and Information Type: Occurrence of conditions judged to cause impairment
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Data available consist of photographic evidence of trash and interpretation of these photos by an experienced trash assessment specialist. Each photograph was analyzed to establish the RTA score for the level of trash and threat to aquatic life parameters, which relate to impairment of REC2 and WILD, respectively. Only those photos clear enough to establish these RTA scores were relied on for the listing determination. These results are available for the following dates and locations along the Bay shoreline:
Mouth of Ryder Ct. Park on 12/10/2003 and 4/1/2006
Tidal Area, near mouth at Oakport on 12/10/2003, 12/16/2004, 1/5/2005, 12/19/2005, 3/29/2006, 2/23/2007

This waterbody had level of trash parameter scores in the poor category (indicating impairment of non-contact water recreational beneficial uses) at two locations on two different dates.
Data Reference: Report from Roger James and Larry Kolb containing Trash Photos submitted for consideration in 2008 303(d) listing process
  Assessment by Matt Cover of Trash Photos (submitted to Region 2 in response to 2008 Data Solicitation)
  Archive of Trash Photos for San Francisco Bay submitted for 2008 303(d) list consideration
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Basin Plan prohibits discharge of Rubbish, refuse, bark, sawdust, or other solid wastes into surface waters or at any place where they would contact or where they would be eventually transported to surface waters, including flood plain areas.

The Basin Plan has a narrative objective for floating material, Waters shall not contain floating material, including solids, liquids, foams, and scum, in concentrations that cause nuisance or adversely affect beneficial uses.

The Basin Plan has a narrative objective for settleable material, Waters shall not contain substances in concentrations that result in the deposition of material that cause nuisance or adversely affect beneficial uses.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) - San Francisco Bay Region (Region 2)
 
Evaluation Guideline: If the Rapid Trash Assessment (RTA) Parameter 1 (Level of Trash) is in the poor condition category (scores 0-5), REC2 is not supported. This level of trash distracts the eye on first glance, making the site unsuitable for recreation. The RTA defines poor condition for this parameter as follows, trash distracts the eye on first glance. Stream, bank surfaces, and immediate riparian zone contain substantial levels of litter and debris (>100 pieces). Evidence of site being used frequently by people: many cans, bottles, and food wrappers, blankets, clothing. Regional Water Board staff trained in the RTA inspected the available photographic evidence and applied the assessment method to determine the Level of Trash score.

If the RTA Parameter 3 (Threat to Aquatic Life) is in the poor condition category (scores 0-5), then WILD is not supported. This level of trash is a large amount (>50 pieces) of transportable, persistent, buoyant litter that is detrimental to aquatic life. The RTA defines poor condition for this parameter as follows, large amount (>50 pieces) of transportable, persistent, buoyant litter such as: hard or soft plastics, balloons, Styrofoam, cigarette butts; toxic items such as batteries, lighters, or spray cans; large clumps of yard waste or dumped leaf litter; or large amount (>50 pieces) of settleable glass or metal. Regional Water Board staff trained in the RTA inspected the available photographic evidence and applied the assessment method to determine the Threat to Aquatic Life score.
Guideline Reference: A Rapid Trash Assessment Method Applied to Waters of the San Francisco Bay Region:Trash Measurement in Streams
 
Spatial Representation: Photographic evidence was analyzed using the RTA methodology for this waterbody for 2 different locations spanning dates from 2003 through 2007.
Temporal Representation: The photographic evidence inspected spans dates between January 2003 through February 2007.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Assessments of the photographic evidence using the RTA were performed by Regional Water Board staff person who was a co-author of the Rapid Trash Assessment methodology.

Assessments based on photographic evidence were only conducted when sufficient reach-scale and close-up photos were available for a site on a specific date. Photos used for the evaluation needed to be numerous enough and clear enough to document the level of trash at the site in a similar way as the assessor would experience during an actual site visit in the field. For example, at a minimum, one reach-scale photograph (showing at least a 100 linear foot section of the waterbody) and two close-up photographs (of representative trash deposits) were required.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 30116, Trash
Region 2     
San Francisco Bay, Lower
 
LOE ID: 5510
 
Pollutant: Trash
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Nuisance
Matrix: Not Specified
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Wildlife Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 5
Number of Exceedances: 5
 
Data and Information Type: Occurrence of conditions judged to cause impairment
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Data available consist of photographic evidence of trash and interpretation of these photos by an experienced trash assessment specialist. Each photograph was analyzed to establish the RTA score for the level of trash and threat to aquatic life parameters, which relate to impairment of REC2 and WILD, respectively. Only those photos clear enough to establish these RTA scores were relied on for the listing determination. These results are available for the following dates and locations along the Bay shoreline:
Mouth of Ryder Ct. Park on 12/10/2003 and 4/1/2006
Tidal Area, near mouth at Oakport on 12/10/2003, 12/16/2004, 1/5/2005, 12/19/2005, 3/29/2006, 2/23/2007

This waterbody had threat to aquatic life parameter scores in the poor category (indicating threat to Wildlife Habitat beneficial uses) at two location on four different dates.
Data Reference: Report from Roger James and Larry Kolb containing Trash Photos submitted for consideration in 2008 303(d) listing process
  Assessment by Matt Cover of Trash Photos (submitted to Region 2 in response to 2008 Data Solicitation)
  Archive of Trash Photos for San Francisco Bay submitted for 2008 303(d) list consideration
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: The Basin Plan prohibits discharge of Rubbish, refuse, bark, sawdust, or other solid wastes into surface waters or at any place where they would contact or where they would be eventually transported to surface waters, including flood plain areas.

The Basin Plan has a narrative objective for floating material, Waters shall not contain floating material, including solids, liquids, foams, and scum, in concentrations that cause nuisance or adversely affect beneficial uses.

The Basin Plan has a narrative objective for settleable material, Waters shall not contain substances in concentrations that result in the deposition of material that cause nuisance or adversely affect beneficial uses.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) - San Francisco Bay Region (Region 2)
 
Evaluation Guideline: If the Rapid Trash Assessment (RTA) Parameter 1 (Level of Trash) is in the poor condition category (scores 0-5), REC2 is not supported. This level of trash distracts the eye on first glance, making the site unsuitable for recreation. The RTA defines poor condition for this parameter as follows, trash distracts the eye on first glance. Stream, bank surfaces, and immediate riparian zone contain substantial levels of litter and debris (>100 pieces). Evidence of site being used frequently by people: many cans, bottles, and food wrappers, blankets, clothing. Regional Water Board staff trained in the RTA inspected the available photographic evidence and applied the assessment method to determine the Level of Trash score.

If the RTA Parameter 3 (Threat to Aquatic Life) is in the poor condition category (scores 0-5), then WILD is not supported. This level of trash is a large amount (>50 pieces) of transportable, persistent, buoyant litter that is detrimental to aquatic life. The RTA defines poor condition for this parameter as follows, large amount (>50 pieces) of transportable, persistent, buoyant litter such as: hard or soft plastics, balloons, Styrofoam, cigarette butts; toxic items such as batteries, lighters, or spray cans; large clumps of yard waste or dumped leaf litter; or large amount (>50 pieces) of settleable glass or metal. Regional Water Board staff trained in the RTA inspected the available photographic evidence and applied the assessment method to determine the Threat to Aquatic Life score.
Guideline Reference: A Rapid Trash Assessment Method Applied to Waters of the San Francisco Bay Region:Trash Measurement in Streams
 
Spatial Representation: Photographic evidence was analyzed using the RTA methodology for this waterbody for 2 different locations spanning dates from 2003 through 2007.
Temporal Representation: The photographic evidence inspected spans dates between January 2003 through February 2007.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Assessments of the photographic evidence using the RTA were performed by Regional Water Board staff person who was a co-author of the Rapid Trash Assessment methodology.

Assessments based on photographic evidence were only conducted when sufficient reach-scale and close-up photos were available for a site on a specific date. Photos used for the evaluation needed to be numerous enough and clear enough to document the level of trash at the site in a similar way as the assessor would experience during an actual site visit in the field. For example, at a minimum, one reach-scale photograph (showing at least a 100 linear foot section of the waterbody) and two close-up photographs (of representative trash deposits) were required.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
 
DECISION ID
21206
Region 2     
San Francisco Bay, Lower
 
Pollutant: Mercury
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 (being addressed by USEPA approved TMDL)(2010)
Revision Status Original
Sources: Source Unknown
TMDL Name: San Francisco Bay Mercury
TMDL Project Code: 6
Date TMDL Approved by USEPA: 02/29/2008
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: Region 2 data was not included in the 2012 Integrated Report so all decisions are carried over from the 2010 listing cycle.
 
Regional Board Decision Recommendation: Water Board staff conclude that the water body should be placed in the Water Quality Limited Segments Being Addressed category of the section 303(d) list because a TMDL has been approved by USEPA and an approved implementation plan is in place.
 
State Board Staff Review of Regional Board Conclusion and Recommendation:
 
State Board Decision Recommendation: After review of this Regional Board decision, SWRCB staff recommend the decision be approved by the State Board.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 21206, Mercury
Region 2     
San Francisco Bay, Lower
 
LOE ID: 3839
 
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):