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

Supporting Information

Regional Board 1 - North Coast Region

Water Body Name: Russian River HU, Lower Russian River HA, Guerneville HSA, Green Valley Creek watershed
Water Body ID: CAR1141101320081204231407
Water Body Type: River & Stream
 
DECISION ID
26241
Region 1     
Russian River HU, Lower Russian River HA, Guerneville HSA, Green Valley Creek watershed
 
Pollutant: Indicator Bacteria
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)(2010)
Revision Status Revised
Sources: Nonpoint Source | Other
Expected TMDL Completion Date: 2016
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: This pollutant is being considered for removal from the Section 303(d) list under section 4.11 of the Listing Policy. If the weight of evidence indicates attainment, the water segment shall be removed from the section 303(d) list. Four lines of evidence (LOEs 46787, 46788, 46786, and 47599) are available in the administrative record to assess fecal indicator bacteria in the Green Valley Creek watershed. Data from a fifth LOE (46089) were re-evaluated in LOEs 46787, 46788, and 46786.

It should be noted that an additional four LOEs for total coliform data (LOEs 46789, 46790, 46791, and 26090) were not utilized in this decision because these bacteria are widespread in nature and occur in non-fecal sources such as soil and submerged wood.

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 section 303(d) List (i.e., sufficient justification to not delist). 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) Detectable levels of non-natural (e.g. human or bovine) pathogen indicator bacteria are in violation of the Basin Plan bacterial Water Quality Objective. Russian River Pathogen Indicator Bacteria TMDL results reflect that both human-host and bovine-host Bacteroides bacteria have been detected in surface waters throughout Russian River Watershed. E. Coli data from the mainstem Laguna de Santa Rosa and Green Valley Creek violate the objective. PhyloChip data results reflect the presence of human host pathogens in the Russian River watershed. Therefore, it is concluded that natural background levels of bacteriological quality are not being achieved in the Russian River watershed and are in violation of the Basin Plan narrative bacteria Water Quality Objective. (3) This process is scientifically defensible and reproducible.
 
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.
 
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 26241, Indicator Bacteria
Region 1     
Russian River HU, Lower Russian River HA, Guerneville HSA, Green Valley Creek watershed
 
LOE ID: 26090
 
Pollutant: Total Coliform
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Water Contact Recreation
 
Number of Samples: 11
Number of Exceedances: 10
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Ten of the 11 total coliform samples from the Green Valley Creek Watershed exceed the evaluation guideline. The sample concentrations range from 2,600 to >240,000 MPN / 100 ml. The samples were collected as part of the Russian River First Flush sampling event. Data are summarized by Katznelson et al. (2003).
Data Reference: 2002 Russian River First Flush Summary Report. Clean Water Team, Citizen Monitoring Program of the State Water Resources Control Board
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Per the Basin Plan (NCRWQCB 2007): The bacteriological quality of waters of the North Coast Region shall not be degraded beyond natural background levels.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) - North Coast Region (Region 1)
 
Evaluation Guideline: Per the "Draft Guidance for Fresh Water Beaches" (DHS 2006): Beach posting is recommended when single sample total coliform levels exceed 10,000 MPN / 100 ml. *Note: MPN is the most probable number of coliform units.
Guideline Reference: Draft Guidance for Fresh Water Beaches. Last Update: May 8, 2006. Initial Draft: November 1997. California Department of Public Health.
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected from 5 sites in the Green Valley Creek Watershed as follows: (1) in Green Valley Creek at Martinelli Road; (2) in Atascadero Creek at the Green Valley Road bridge; (3) in Graton Gulch at Railroad Avenue; (4) in Atascadero Creek at Mill Station Road; and (5) in Atascadero Creek at Bodega Highway.
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected on November 7, 2002. At each site, 1 to 3 instantaneous grab samples were collected over half hour increments.
Environmental Conditions: Samples were collected during the first runoff event of the rainy season.
QAPP Information: Samples were collected in accordance with the study plan and quality control procedures described by Katznelson et al. (2003).
QAPP Information Reference(s): 2002 Russian River First Flush Summary Report. Clean Water Team, Citizen Monitoring Program of the State Water Resources Control Board
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 26241, Indicator Bacteria
Region 1     
Russian River HU, Lower Russian River HA, Guerneville HSA, Green Valley Creek watershed
 
LOE ID: 26089
 
Pollutant: Escherichia coli (E. coli)
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Water Contact Recreation
 
Number of Samples: 11
Number of Exceedances: 10
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Ten of the 11 E. coli samples from the Green Valley Creek Watershed exceed the evaluation guideline. Concentrations range from 100 to 2,800 MPN / 100 ml. The samples were collected as part of the Russian River First Flush sampling event. Data are summarized by Katznelson et al. (2003).
Data Reference: 2002 Russian River First Flush Summary Report. Clean Water Team, Citizen Monitoring Program of the State Water Resources Control Board
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Per the Basin Plan (NCRWQCB 2007): The bacteriological quality of waters of the North Coast Region shall not be degraded beyond natural background levels.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) - North Coast Region (Region 1)
 
Evaluation Guideline: Per the "Draft Guidance for Fresh Water Beaches" (DHS 2006): Beach posting is recommended when single sample E. coli levels exceed 235 MPN / 100 ml. *Note: MPN is the most probable number of coliform units.
Guideline Reference: Draft Guidance for Fresh Water Beaches. Last Update: May 8, 2006. Initial Draft: November 1997. California Department of Public Health.
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected from 5 sites in the Green Valley Creek Watershed as follows: (1) in Green Valley Creek at Martinelli Road; (2) in Atascadero Creek at the Green Valley Road bridge; (3) in Graton Gulch at Railroad Avenue; (4) in Atascadero Creek at Mill Station Road; and (5) in Atascadero Creek at Bodega Highway.
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected on November 7, 2002. At each site, 1 to 3 instantaneous grab samples were collected over half hour increments.
Environmental Conditions: Samples were collected during the first runoff event of the rainy season.
QAPP Information: Samples were collected in accordance with the study plan and quality control procedures described by Katznelson et al. (2003).
QAPP Information Reference(s): 2002 Russian River First Flush Summary Report. Clean Water Team, Citizen Monitoring Program of the State Water Resources Control Board
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 26241, Indicator Bacteria
Region 1     
Russian River HU, Lower Russian River HA, Guerneville HSA, Green Valley Creek watershed
 
LOE ID: 46789
 
Pollutant: Total Coliform
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Water Contact Recreation
 
Number of Samples: 3
Number of Exceedances: 3
 
Data and Information Type: PATHOGEN MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Three of three total coliform samples from Green Valley Creek exceed the evaluation guideline. The samples were collected as part of the Russian River First Flush sampling event. Data are summarized by Katznelson et al. (2003). This LOE and LOEs 46791 and 46790 replace LOE 26090 from the 2010 Integrated Report. The data from LOE 26090 has been separated into 3 new LOEs, as noted above, in order to assess data for each tributary in its own LOE.
Data Reference: 2002 Russian River First Flush Summary Report. Clean Water Team, Citizen Monitoring Program of the State Water Resources Control Board
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Per the Basin Plan (NCRWQCB 2007): The bacteriological quality of waters of the North Coast Region shall not be degraded beyond natural background levels.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) - North Coast Region (Region 1)
 
Evaluation Guideline: Per the "Draft Guidance for Fresh Water Beaches" (DHS 2006): Beach posting is recommended when single sample total coliform levels exceed 10,000 MPN / 100 ml. *Note: MPN is the most probable number of coliform units.
Guideline Reference: Draft Guidance for Fresh Water Beaches. Last Update: May 8, 2006. Initial Draft: November 1997. California Department of Public Health.
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected from Green Valley Creek at Martinelli Road.
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected on November 7, 2002. Samples were collected over half hour increments.
Environmental Conditions: Samples were collected during the first runoff event of the rainy season.
QAPP Information: Samples were collected in accordance with the study plan and quality control procedures described by Katznelson et al. (2003).
QAPP Information Reference(s): 2002 Russian River First Flush Summary Report. Clean Water Team, Citizen Monitoring Program of the State Water Resources Control Board
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 26241, Indicator Bacteria
Region 1     
Russian River HU, Lower Russian River HA, Guerneville HSA, Green Valley Creek watershed
 
LOE ID: 46788
 
Pollutant: Escherichia coli (E. coli)
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Water Contact Recreation
 
Number of Samples: 3
Number of Exceedances: 2
 
Data and Information Type: PATHOGEN MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Two of three E. coli samples from Graton Gulch exceed the evaluation guideline. The samples were collected as part of the Russian River First Flush sampling event. Data are summarized by Katznelson et al. (2003). This LOE and LOEs 46786 and 46787 replace LOE 26089 from the 2010 Integrated Report. The data from LOE 26089 has been separated into 3 new LOEs, as noted above, in order to assess data for each tributary in its own LOE.
Data Reference: 2002 Russian River First Flush Summary Report. Clean Water Team, Citizen Monitoring Program of the State Water Resources Control Board
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Per the Basin Plan (NCRWQCB 2007): The bacteriological quality of waters of the North Coast Region shall not be degraded beyond natural background levels.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) - North Coast Region (Region 1)
 
Evaluation Guideline: Per the "Draft Guidance for Fresh Water Beaches" (DHS 2006): Beach posting is recommended when single sample E. coli levels exceed 235 MPN / 100 ml. *Note: MPN is the most probable number of coliform units.
Guideline Reference: Draft Guidance for Fresh Water Beaches. Last Update: May 8, 2006. Initial Draft: November 1997. California Department of Public Health.
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected from Graton Gulch at Railroad Avenue.
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected on November 7, 2002. Samples were collected over half hour increments.
Environmental Conditions: Samples were collected during the first runoff event of the rainy season.
QAPP Information: Samples were collected in accordance with the study plan and quality control procedures described by Katznelson et al. (2003).
QAPP Information Reference(s): 2002 Russian River First Flush Summary Report. Clean Water Team, Citizen Monitoring Program of the State Water Resources Control Board
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 26241, Indicator Bacteria
Region 1     
Russian River HU, Lower Russian River HA, Guerneville HSA, Green Valley Creek watershed
 
LOE ID: 46790
 
Pollutant: Total Coliform
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Water Contact Recreation
 
Number of Samples: 3
Number of Exceedances: 3
 
Data and Information Type: PATHOGEN MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Three of three total coliform samples from Graton Gulch exceed the evaluation guideline. The samples were collected as part of the Russian River First Flush sampling event. Data are summarized by Katznelson et al. (2003). This LOE and LOEs 46789 and 46791 replace LOE 26090 from the 2010 Integrated Report. The data from LOE 26090 has been separated into 3 new LOEs, as noted above, in order to assess data for each tributary in its own LOE.
Data Reference: 2002 Russian River First Flush Summary Report. Clean Water Team, Citizen Monitoring Program of the State Water Resources Control Board
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Per the Basin Plan (NCRWQCB 2007): The bacteriological quality of waters of the North Coast Region shall not be degraded beyond natural background levels.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) - North Coast Region (Region 1)
 
Evaluation Guideline: Per the "Draft Guidance for Fresh Water Beaches" (DHS 2006): Beach posting is recommended when single sample total coliform levels exceed 10,000 MPN / 100 ml. *Note: MPN is the most probable number of coliform units.
Guideline Reference: Draft Guidance for Fresh Water Beaches. Last Update: May 8, 2006. Initial Draft: November 1997. California Department of Public Health.
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected from Graton Gulch at Railroad Avenue.
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected on November 7, 2002. Samples were collected over half hour increments.
Environmental Conditions: Samples were collected during the first runoff event of the rainy season.
QAPP Information: Samples were collected in accordance with the study plan and quality control procedures described by Katznelson et al. (2003).
QAPP Information Reference(s): 2002 Russian River First Flush Summary Report. Clean Water Team, Citizen Monitoring Program of the State Water Resources Control Board
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 26241, Indicator Bacteria
Region 1     
Russian River HU, Lower Russian River HA, Guerneville HSA, Green Valley Creek watershed
 
LOE ID: 46786
 
Pollutant: Escherichia coli (E. coli)
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Water Contact Recreation
 
Number of Samples: 5
Number of Exceedances: 5
 
Data and Information Type: PATHOGEN MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Five of 5 E. coli samples from Atascadero Creek exceed the evaluation guideline. The samples were collected as part of the Russian River First Flush sampling event. Data are summarized by Katznelson et al. (2003). This LOE and LOEs 46787 and 46788 replace LOE 26089 from the 2010 Integrated Report. The data from LOE 26089 has been separated into 3 new LOEs, as noted above, in order to assess data for each tributary in its own LOE.
Data Reference: 2002 Russian River First Flush Summary Report. Clean Water Team, Citizen Monitoring Program of the State Water Resources Control Board
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Per the Basin Plan (NCRWQCB 2007): The bacteriological quality of waters of the North Coast Region shall not be degraded beyond natural background levels.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) - North Coast Region (Region 1)
 
Evaluation Guideline: Per the "Draft Guidance for Fresh Water Beaches" (DHS 2006): Beach posting is recommended when single sample E. coli levels exceed 235 MPN / 100 ml. *Note: MPN is the most probable number of coliform units.
Guideline Reference: Draft Guidance for Fresh Water Beaches. Last Update: May 8, 2006. Initial Draft: November 1997. California Department of Public Health.
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected from three sites in Atascdero Creek as follows: (1) in Atascadero Creek at Mill Station Road; 2) in Atascadero Creek at the Green Valley Road bridge; and (3) in Atascadero Creek at Bodega Highway.
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected on November 7, 2002. At each site, 1 to 3 instantaneous grab samples were collected over half hour increments.
Environmental Conditions: Samples were collected during the first runoff event of the rainy season.
QAPP Information: Samples were collected in accordance with the study plan and quality control procedures described by Katznelson et al. (2003).
QAPP Information Reference(s): 2002 Russian River First Flush Summary Report. Clean Water Team, Citizen Monitoring Program of the State Water Resources Control Board
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 26241, Indicator Bacteria
Region 1     
Russian River HU, Lower Russian River HA, Guerneville HSA, Green Valley Creek watershed
 
LOE ID: 46787
 
Pollutant: Escherichia coli (E. coli)
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Water Contact Recreation
 
Number of Samples: 3
Number of Exceedances: 3
 
Data and Information Type: PATHOGEN MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Three of three E. coli samples from Green Valley Creek exceed the evaluation guideline. The samples were collected as part of the Russian River First Flush sampling event. Data are summarized by Katznelson et al. (2003). This LOE and LOEs 46786 and 46788 replace LOE 26089 from the 2010 Integrated Report. The data from LOE 26089 has been separated into 3 new LOEs, as noted above, in order to assess data for each tributary in its own LOE.
Data Reference: 2002 Russian River First Flush Summary Report. Clean Water Team, Citizen Monitoring Program of the State Water Resources Control Board
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Per the Basin Plan (NCRWQCB 2007): The bacteriological quality of waters of the North Coast Region shall not be degraded beyond natural background levels.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) - North Coast Region (Region 1)
 
Evaluation Guideline: Per the "Draft Guidance for Fresh Water Beaches" (DHS 2006): Beach posting is recommended when single sample E. coli levels exceed 235 MPN / 100 ml. *Note: MPN is the most probable number of coliform units.
Guideline Reference: Draft Guidance for Fresh Water Beaches. Last Update: May 8, 2006. Initial Draft: November 1997. California Department of Public Health.
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected from Green Valley Creek at Martenelli Road.
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected on November 7, 2002. Samples were collected over half hour increments.
Environmental Conditions: Samples were collected during the first runoff event of the rainy season.
QAPP Information: Samples were collected in accordance with the study plan and quality control procedures described by Katznelson et al. (2003).
QAPP Information Reference(s): 2002 Russian River First Flush Summary Report. Clean Water Team, Citizen Monitoring Program of the State Water Resources Control Board
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 26241, Indicator Bacteria
Region 1     
Russian River HU, Lower Russian River HA, Guerneville HSA, Green Valley Creek watershed
 
LOE ID: 46791
 
Pollutant: Total Coliform
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Water Contact Recreation
 
Number of Samples: 5
Number of Exceedances: 4
 
Data and Information Type: PATHOGEN MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Four of five total coliform samples from Atascadero Creek exceed the evaluation guideline. The samples were collected as part of the Russian River First Flush sampling event. Data are summarized by Katznelson et al. (2003). This LOE and LOEs 46789 and 46790 replace LOE 26090 from the 2010 Integrated Report. The data from LOE 26090 has been separated into 3 new LOEs, as noted above, in order to assess data for each tributary in its own LOE.
Data Reference: 2002 Russian River First Flush Summary Report. Clean Water Team, Citizen Monitoring Program of the State Water Resources Control Board
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Per the Basin Plan (NCRWQCB 2007): The bacteriological quality of waters of the North Coast Region shall not be degraded beyond natural background levels.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) - North Coast Region (Region 1)
 
Evaluation Guideline: Per the "Draft Guidance for Fresh Water Beaches" (DHS 2006): Beach posting is recommended when single sample total coliform levels exceed 10,000 MPN / 100 ml. *Note: MPN is the most probable number of coliform units.
Guideline Reference: Draft Guidance for Fresh Water Beaches. Last Update: May 8, 2006. Initial Draft: November 1997. California Department of Public Health.
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected from three sites in Atascdero Creek as follows: (1) in Atascadero Creek at Mill Station Road; 2) in Atascadero Creek at the Green Valley Road bridge; and (3) in Atascadero Creek at Bodega Highway.
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected on November 7, 2002. One to three samples were collected at each site over half hour increments.
Environmental Conditions: Samples were collected during the first runoff event of the rainy season.
QAPP Information: Samples were collected in accordance with the study plan and quality control procedures described by Katznelson et al. (2003).
QAPP Information Reference(s): 2002 Russian River First Flush Summary Report. Clean Water Team, Citizen Monitoring Program of the State Water Resources Control Board
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 26241, Indicator Bacteria
Region 1     
Russian River HU, Lower Russian River HA, Guerneville HSA, Green Valley Creek watershed
 
LOE ID: 47599
 
Pollutant: Escherichia coli (E. coli) | Indicator Bacteria | Pathogens
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Water Contact Recreation
 
Number of Samples: 0
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Detectable levels of non-natural (e.g. human or bovine) pathogen indicator bacteria are in violation of the Basin Plan bacterial Water Quality Objective. Russian River Pathogen Indicator Bacteria TMDL results reflect that both human-host and bovine-host Bacteroides bacteria have been detected in surface waters throughout Russian River Watershed. E. Coli data from the mainstem Laguna de Santa Rosa and Green Valley Creek violate the objective. PhyloChip data results reflect the presence of human host pathogens in the Russian River watershed. Therefore, it is concluded that natural background levels of bacteriological quality are not being achieved in the Russian River watershed and are in violation of the Basin Plan narrative bacteria Water Quality Objective.
Data Reference: Evidence of Water Contact Recreation Impairment in the Russian River Watershed.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Per the Basin Plan (NCRWQCB 2007): The bacteriological quality of waters of the North Coast Region shall not be degraded beyond natural background levels.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) - North Coast Region (Region 1)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Russian River watershed, including the Laguna de Santa Rosa watershed.
Temporal Representation: January 2001 - December 2012
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Russian River Pathogen Indicator Bacteria TMDL Quality Assurance Project Plan.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Russian River Pathogen Indicator Bacteria TMDL Quality Assurance Project Plan.
 
 
DECISION ID
26622
Region 1     
Russian River HU, Lower Russian River HA, Guerneville HSA, Green Valley Creek watershed
 
Pollutant: Nitrate
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 Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: This pollutant is being considered for placement on the Section 303(d) List under Section 3.1 of the Listing Policy. Under Section 3.1, a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status. Four lines of evidence are available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant: two for Green Valley Creek, one for Graton Gulch, and one for Atascadero Creek.

It should be noted that LOE 26088 from the 2010 Integrated Report was not used in this decision, and the data are re-evaluated in LOEs 47205, 47206, and 47207.

None of the 61 nitrate samples from Green Valley Creek exceed the objective. Additionally, zero of one nitrate sample from both Graton Gulch and Atascadero Creek exceed the water quality objective, however these sample sizes are insufficient to determine with the power and confidence of the Listing Policy if standards are not met, as a minimum of either (a) 16 samples, or (b) greater than or equal to 2 exceedances of the objective with less than 16 samples is needed for application of Table 3.1.

Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is sufficient justification against placing this water segment-pollutant combination on the Section 303(d) List in the Water Quality Limited Segments category (i.e., sufficient justification to not 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 61 nitrate samples from Green Valley Creek exceed the water quality 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.
 
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 26622, Nitrate
Region 1     
Russian River HU, Lower Russian River HA, Guerneville HSA, Green Valley Creek watershed
 
LOE ID: 47206
 
Pollutant: Nitrate
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Municipal & Domestic Supply
 
Number of Samples: 1
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Zero of 1 nitrate as nitrogen sample collected in Graton Gulch exceeds the objective. The sample was collected as part of the Russian River First Flush sampling event. Data are summarized by Katznelson et al. (2003). This LOE and LOEs 47205 and 47207 replace LOE 26088 from the 2010 Integrated Report cycle. The data have been re-evaluated against an updated MCL and data for each stream have been separated into their own LOE.
Data Reference: 2002 Russian River First Flush Summary Report. Clean Water Team, Citizen Monitoring Program of the State Water Resources Control Board
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan, North Coast Region (2011): Waters designated for MUN shall not contain concentrations of chemical constituents in excess of the MCL specified in Title 22 of the California Code of Regulations. The nitrate (as N) MCL is 10 mg/L.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) for the North Coast Region
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The sample was collected from Graton Gulch at Railroad Avenue.
Temporal Representation: The sample was collected on November 7, 2002.
Environmental Conditions: Samples were collected during the first runoff event of the rainy season.
QAPP Information: Samples were collected in accordance with the study plan and quality control procedures described by Katznelson et al. (2003).
QAPP Information Reference(s): 2002 Russian River First Flush Summary Report. Clean Water Team, Citizen Monitoring Program of the State Water Resources Control Board
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 26622, Nitrate
Region 1     
Russian River HU, Lower Russian River HA, Guerneville HSA, Green Valley Creek watershed
 
LOE ID: 47207
 
Pollutant: Nitrate
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Municipal & Domestic Supply
 
Number of Samples: 1
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Zero of 1 nitrate as nitrogen sample collected in Atascadero Creek exceeds the objective. The sample was collected as part of the Russian River First Flush sampling event. Data are summarized by Katznelson et al. (2003). This LOE and LOEs 47205 and 47206 replace LOE 26088 from the 2010 Integrated Report cycle. The data have been re-evaluated against an updated MCL and data for each stream have been separated into their own LOE.
Data Reference: 2002 Russian River First Flush Summary Report. Clean Water Team, Citizen Monitoring Program of the State Water Resources Control Board
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan, North Coast Region (2011): Waters designated for MUN shall not contain concentrations of chemical constituents in excess of the MCL specified in Title 22 of the California Code of Regulations. The nitrate (as N) MCL is 10 mg/L.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) for the North Coast Region
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The sample was collected from Atascadero Creek at Bodega Highway.
Temporal Representation: The sample was collected on November 7, 2002.
Environmental Conditions: Samples were collected during the first runoff event of the rainy season.
QAPP Information: Samples were collected in accordance with the study plan and quality control procedures described by Katznelson et al. (2003).
QAPP Information Reference(s): 2002 Russian River First Flush Summary Report. Clean Water Team, Citizen Monitoring Program of the State Water Resources Control Board
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 26622, Nitrate
Region 1     
Russian River HU, Lower Russian River HA, Guerneville HSA, Green Valley Creek watershed
 
LOE ID: 47205
 
Pollutant: Nitrate
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Municipal & Domestic Supply
 
Number of Samples: 1
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Zero of 1 nitrate as nitrogen sample collected in Green Valley Creek exceeds the objective. The sample was collected as part of the Russian River First Flush sampling event. Data are summarized by Katznelson et al. (2003). This LOE and LOEs 47206 and 47207 replace LOE 26088 from the 2010 Integrated Report cycle. The data have been re-evaluated against an updated MCL and data for each stream have been separated into their own LOE.
Data Reference: 2002 Russian River First Flush Summary Report. Clean Water Team, Citizen Monitoring Program of the State Water Resources Control Board
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan, North Coast Region (2011): Waters designated for MUN shall not contain concentrations of chemical constituents in excess of the MCL specified in Title 22 of the California Code of Regulations. The nitrate (as N) MCL is 10 mg/L.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) for the North Coast Region
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The sample was collected from Green Valley Creek at Martinelli Road.
Temporal Representation: The sample was collected on November 7, 2002.
Environmental Conditions: Samples were collected during the first runoff event of the rainy season.
QAPP Information: Samples were collected in accordance with the study plan and quality control procedures described by Katznelson et al. (2003).
QAPP Information Reference(s): 2002 Russian River First Flush Summary Report. Clean Water Team, Citizen Monitoring Program of the State Water Resources Control Board
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 26622, Nitrate
Region 1     
Russian River HU, Lower Russian River HA, Guerneville HSA, Green Valley Creek watershed
 
LOE ID: 26092
 
Pollutant: Nitrate
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Municipal & Domestic Supply
 
Number of Samples: 60
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: None of the 60 nitrate as nitrogen samples collected in Green Valley Creek exceeded the objective. The sample concentrations range from non-detect (detection limits of 0.02 mg/L - 0.04 mg/L) to 0.64 mg/L. These samples were collected by the Community Clean Water Institute’s Volunteer Water Quality Monitoring Program (CCWI 2006, CCWI 2007).
Data Reference: Community Clean Water Institute Master Data for 2005. Downloaded from http://ccwi.org/issues/data.htm on August 25, 2008
  Community Clean Water Institute Master Data for 2006. Downloaded from http://ccwi.org/issues/data.htm on August 25, 2008
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Per the Basin Plan (NCRWQCB 2007): The water quality objective for nitrate as nitrogen is 45 mg/L.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) - North Coast Region (Region 1)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 7 sites along the entire mainstem of Green Valley Creek: from Harrison Grade and Green Valley Rd. to the Russian River confluence.
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected from July 2005 to December 2006.
Environmental Conditions: There are no known environmental conditions (e.g., seasonality, land use practices, fire events, storms, etc.) that are related to these data.
QAPP Information: Samples were collected in accordance with the "Community Clean Water Institute Volunteer Water Quality Monitoring Program Sampling and Analysis Methods" (CCWI 2007). At each site a grab sample was collected using a container on a pole or by a bucket attached to a rope. The samples were then put into sterilized Whirl Pak bags, put into coolers on ice, and brought to the lab for analysis.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Community Clean Water Institute Volunteer Water Quality Monitoring Program Sampling and Analysis Methods. Updated April 12, 2007
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 26622, Nitrate
Region 1     
Russian River HU, Lower Russian River HA, Guerneville HSA, Green Valley Creek watershed
 
LOE ID: 26088
 
Pollutant: Nitrate
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Municipal & Domestic Supply
 
Number of Samples: 3
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: None of the 3 nitrate as nitrogen samples collected in the Green Valley Creek Watershed exceed the objective. The sample concentrations range from 0.2 to 0.5. The samples were collected as part of the Russian River First Flush sampling event. Data are summarized by Katznelson et al. (2003).
Data Reference: 2002 Russian River First Flush Summary Report. Clean Water Team, Citizen Monitoring Program of the State Water Resources Control Board
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Per the Basin Plan (NCRWQCB 2007): The water quality objective for nitrate as nitrogen is 45 mg/l.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) - North Coast Region (Region 1)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected from 3 sites in the Green Valley Creek Watershed as follows: (1) in Green Valley Creek at Martinelli Road; (2) in Graton Gulch at Railroad Avenue; and (3) in Atascadero Creek at Bodega Highway.
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected on November 7, 2002. At each site, 1 to 3 instantaneous grab samples were collected over half hour increments. The data are averaged for each site where multiple samples were collected.
Environmental Conditions: Samples were collected during the first runoff event of the rainy season.
QAPP Information: Samples were collected in accordance with the study plan and quality control procedures described by Katznelson et al. (2003).
QAPP Information Reference(s): 2002 Russian River First Flush Summary Report. Clean Water Team, Citizen Monitoring Program of the State Water Resources Control Board
 
 
DECISION ID
26436
Region 1     
Russian River HU, Lower Russian River HA, Guerneville HSA, Green Valley Creek watershed
 
Pollutant: Nitrogen, ammonia (Total Ammonia)
Final Listing Decision: Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)(2010)
Revision Status Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: This pollutant is being considered for placement on the Section 303(d) List under Section 3.1 of the Listing Policy. Under Section 3.1, a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status. One line of evidence is available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. No new data were assessed during the current Integrated Report cycle, however it should be noted that the use rating and decision language have been altered to reflect that there are insufficient data available to make a listing determination. Also, the pollutant name was changed from "Ammonia as Nitrogen" to "Nitrogen, ammonia (Total Ammonia)".

Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is sufficient justification against placing this water segment-pollutant combination on the section 303(d) list in the Water Quality Limited Segments category (i.e., sufficient justification to not 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 5 samples exceed the evaluation guideline, and this sample size is insufficient to determine with the power and confidence of the Listing Policy if standards are not met, as a minimum of either (A) 16 samples, or (B) greater than or equal 2 exceedances of the objective with less than 16 samples is needed for application of Table 3.1 (4) Pursuant to Section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.
 
Regional Board Decision Recommendation: After review of the available data and information, RWQCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should not be placed on the section 303(d) list because it cannot be determined if applicable water quality standards are not being exceeded.
 
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 26436, Nitrogen, ammonia (Total Ammonia)
Region 1     
Russian River HU, Lower Russian River HA, Guerneville HSA, Green Valley Creek watershed
 
LOE ID: 26086
 
Pollutant: Ammonia as Nitrogen
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
Aquatic Life Use: Fish Migration | Fish Spawning | Freshwater Replenishment | Preservation of Rare & Endangered Species | Warm Freshwater Habitat | Wildlife Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 5
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: None of the 5 total ammonia as nitrogen instantaneous grab samples collected from the Green Valley Creek Watershed exceed the evaluation guideline. The sample concentrations range from non-detect to 0.51 mg/l. The samples were collected as part of the Russian River First Flush sampling event. Data are summarized by Katznelson et al. (2003).
Data Reference: 2002 Russian River First Flush Summary Report. Clean Water Team, Citizen Monitoring Program of the State Water Resources Control Board
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Per the Basin Plan (NCRWQCB 2007): "Waters shall not contain biostimulatory substances in concentrations that promote aquatic growths to the extent that such growths cause nuisance or adversely affect beneficial uses."
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) - North Coast Region (Region 1)
 
Evaluation Guideline: Per the National Recommended Water Quality Criteria (USEPA 2006): The 1-hour average concentration (acute criterion or CMC) of total ammonia nitrogen (in mg N/L) for freshwater where salmonid fish are present, which is not to be exceeded more than once every three years on average, is calculated using the following equation: CMC=0.275/(1+10^(7.204 - pH)) + 39.0/(1+10^(pH - 7.204)).
Guideline Reference: National Recommended Water Quality Criteria. United States Environmental Protection Agency. Office of Water. Office of Science and Technology
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected from 5 sites in the Green Valley Creek Watershed as follows: (1) in Green Valley Creek at Martinelli Road; (2) in Atascadero Creek at the Green Valley Road bridge; (3) in Graton Gulch at Railroad Avenue; (4) in Atascadero Creek at Mill Station Road; and (5) in Atascadero Creek at Bodega Highway.
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected on November 7, 2002. At each site, 1 to 3 instantaneous grab samples were collected over half hour increments. The data are averaged for each site where multiple samples were collected.
Environmental Conditions: Samples were collected during the first runoff event of the rainy season.
QAPP Information: Samples were collected in accordance with the study plan and quality control procedures described by Katznelson et al. (2003).
QAPP Information Reference(s): 2002 Russian River First Flush Summary Report. Clean Water Team, Citizen Monitoring Program of the State Water Resources Control Board
 
 
DECISION ID
26591
Region 1     
Russian River HU, Lower Russian River HA, Guerneville HSA, Green Valley Creek watershed
 
Pollutant: Diazinon
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: Regional Water Board Conclusion:

This pollutant was considered for placement on the section 303(d) list in a previous Integrated Report cycle.

No new information was reviewed for this current Integrated Report cycle. Therefore, the previous conclusion remains unchanged, and is as follows:

This pollutant is being considered for placement on the Section 303(d) List under Section 3.2 of the Listing Policy. Under Section 3.2 a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status. One line of evidence is available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. The weight of evidence indicates that there is insufficient information available to determine if it is appropriate to place this water segment-pollutant combination on the Section 303(d) List in the Water Quality Limited Segments category. One of the 3 diazinon samples exceed the evaluation guideline used to interpret the water quality objective, and this sample size is insufficient to determine with the power and confidence of the Listing Policy if standards are not met. A minimum of 5 samples are needed for application of Table 3.2, and only 3 samples are available. This conclusion is also based on the staff findings that: (1) The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of Section 6.1.4 of the Policy. (2) 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 it cannot be determined if applicable water quality standards are not being exceeded.
 
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 26591, Diazinon
Region 1     
Russian River HU, Lower Russian River HA, Guerneville HSA, Green Valley Creek watershed
 
LOE ID: 26091
 
Pollutant: Diazinon
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
Aquatic Life Use: Fish Migration | Fish Spawning | Freshwater Replenishment | Preservation of Rare & Endangered Species | Warm Freshwater Habitat | Wildlife Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 3
Number of Exceedances: 1
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: One of the 3 diazinon samples collected from the Green Valley Creek Watershed exceeds the evaluation guideline. The sample concentrations range from non-detect to 23 ug/l. The samples were collected as part of the Russian River First Flush sampling event. Data are summarized by Katznelson et al. (2003).
Data Reference: 2002 Russian River First Flush Summary Report. Clean Water Team, Citizen Monitoring Program of the State Water Resources Control Board
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Per the Basin Plan (NCRWQCB 2007): All waters shall be maintained free of toxic substances in concentrations that are toxic to, or that produce detrimental physiological responses in human, plant, animal, or aquatic life.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) - North Coast Region (Region 1)
 
Evaluation Guideline: Per the National Recommended Water Quality Criteria (UEEPA 2006): The 1-hour average maximum concentration criterion for freshwater aquatic life protection if 0.08 ug/l.
Guideline Reference: National Recommended Water Quality Criteria. United States Environmental Protection Agency. Office of Water. Office of Science and Technology
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected from 3 sites in the Green Valley Creek Watershed as follows: (1) in Green Valley Creek at Martinelli Road; (2) in Atascadero Creek at the Green Valley Road bridge; and (3) in Graton Gulch at Railroad Avenue.
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected on November 7, 2002. At each site, 3 instantaneous grab samples were collected over half hour increments. The data are averaged for each site.
Environmental Conditions: Samples were collected during the first runoff event of the rainy season.
QAPP Information: Samples were collected in accordance with the study plan and quality control procedures described by Katznelson et al. (2003).
QAPP Information Reference(s): 2002 Russian River First Flush Summary Report. Clean Water Team, Citizen Monitoring Program of the State Water Resources Control Board
 
 
DECISION ID
26200
Region 1     
Russian River HU, Lower Russian River HA, Guerneville HSA, Green Valley Creek watershed
 
Pollutant: Phosphorus
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: Regional Water Board conclusion: This pollutant was considered for placement on the section 303(d) List in a previous Integrated Report cycle. No new information was reviewed for this current Integrated Report cycle. Therefore, the previous conclusion remains unchanged, and is as follows:

This pollutant is being considered for placement on the Section 303(d) List under Section 3.1 of the Listing Policy. Under Section 3.1 a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status. Two lines of evidence are available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant.

It is unknown if any of the phosphorus samples exceed the water quality objective as there is insufficient information available to determine exceedance. Specifically, the samples cannot be compared to the objective because diel samples for dissolved oxygen (DO), pH, and/or chlorophyll-a are not available. Nutrients such as phosphorus do not impair beneficial uses by themselves, or cause non-attainment of the objective. Rather, they cause indirect impacts through algal growth and extreme diel patterns for DO and pH, which then impair uses. Waterbody-specific factors such as riparian cover, flow conditions, and stream channel configuration also affect how nutrients are processed within the stream and play a large role in determining whether or not nuisance algal conditions will prevail. For these reasons, comparing a single nutrient value to the biostimulatory objective is not recommended. Instead, nutrient-related indicator parameters, such as diel measurements of DO, pH, and/or chlorophyll-a, should be evaluated to determine attainment of the objective and protection of beneficial uses. When nutrient-related indicator parameters exceed targets, nutrient concentrations will then be analyzed to determine whether phosphorus should be added to a possible listing under the 303(d) List.

Therefore, the weight of evidence indicates that there is insufficient information available to determine if it is appropriate to place this water segment-pollutant combination on the Section 303(d) List in the Water Quality Limited Segments category. This conclusion is also 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) 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: No new data were assessed for this assessment cycle. The conclusion reached in the previous cycle remains the same. The Regional Board will update this decision when new data and information become available in a future assessment cycle.
 
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 26200, Phosphorus
Region 1     
Russian River HU, Lower Russian River HA, Guerneville HSA, Green Valley Creek watershed
 
LOE ID: 26095
 
Pollutant: Phosphorus
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Not Recorded
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
Aquatic Life Use: Fish Migration | Fish Spawning | Freshwater Replenishment | Preservation of Rare & Endangered Species | Warm Freshwater Habitat | Wildlife Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 0
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: It is unknown whether any of the 61 phosphorus samples collected in Green Valley Creek exceed the objective as there is insufficient information available to determine exceedance. Specifically, the samples cannot be compared to the objective because diel samples for dissolved oxygen (DO), pH, and/or chlorophyll-a are not available. Nutrients, such as phosphorus, alone do not impair beneficial uses or cause non-attainment of the objective. Rather, they cause indirect impacts through algal growth and extreme diel patterns for DO and pH, which then impair uses. Waterbody-specific factors such as riparian cover, flow conditions, and stream channel configuration also affect how nutrients are processed within the stream and play a large role in determining whether or not nuisance algal conditions will prevail. For these reasons, comparing a single nutrient value to the biostimulatory objective is not recommended. Instead, nutrient-related indicator parameters, such as diel measurements of DO, pH, and/or chlorophyll-a, should be evaluated to determine attainment of the objective and protection of beneficial uses. When nutrient-related indicator parameters exceed targets, nutrient concentrations will then be analyzed to determine whether phosphorus should be added to a possible listing under the 303(d) List. The sample concentrations range from non-detect (reporting limits of 0.03 mg/L and 0.1 mg/L) to 0.27 mg/L. These samples were collected by the Community Clean Water Institute’s Volunteer Water Quality Monitoring Program (CCWI 2005, CCWI 2006, and CCWI 2007).
Data Reference: Community Clean Water Institute Master Data for 2005. Downloaded from http://ccwi.org/issues/data.htm on August 25, 2008
  Community Clean Water Institute Master Data for 2006. Downloaded from http://ccwi.org/issues/data.htm on August 25, 2008
  Community Clean Water Institute Master Data for 2004. Downloaded from http://ccwi.org/issues/data.htm on October 1, 2008
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Per the Basin Plan (NCRWQCB 2007): Waters shall not contain biostimulatory substances in concentrations that promote aquatic growths to the extent that such growths cause nuisance or adversely affect beneficial uses.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) - North Coast Region (Region 1)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 7 sites along the entire mainstem of Green Valley Creek: from Harrison Grade and Green Valley Road to the Russian River confluence.
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected from July 2005 to December 2006.
Environmental Conditions: There are no known environmental conditions (e.g., seasonality, land use practices, fire events, storms, etc.) that are related to these data.
QAPP Information: Samples were collected in accordance with the "Community Clean Water Institute Volunteer Water Quality Monitoring Program Sampling and Analysis Methods" (CCWI 2007).
QAPP Information Reference(s): Community Clean Water Institute Volunteer Water Quality Monitoring Program Sampling and Analysis Methods. Updated April 12, 2007
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 26200, Phosphorus
Region 1     
Russian River HU, Lower Russian River HA, Guerneville HSA, Green Valley Creek watershed
 
LOE ID: 26087
 
Pollutant: Phosphorus
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
Aquatic Life Use: Fish Migration | Fish Spawning | Freshwater Replenishment | Preservation of Rare & Endangered Species | Warm Freshwater Habitat | Wildlife Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 0
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: It is unknown whether any of the 5 phosphorus samples collected in the Green Valley Creek Watershed exceed the objective as there is insufficient information available to determine exceedance. Specifically, the samples cannot be compared to the objective because diel samples for dissolved oxygen (DO), pH, and/or chlorophyll-a are not available. Nutrients, such as phosphorus, alone do not impair beneficial uses or cause non-attainment of the objective. Rather, they cause indirect impacts through algal growth and extreme diel patterns for DO and pH, which then impair uses. Waterbody-specific factors such as riparian cover, flow conditions, and stream channel configuration also affect how nutrients are processed within the stream and play a large role in determining whether or not nuisance algal conditions will prevail. For these reasons, comparing a single nutrient value to the biostimulatory objective is not recommended. Instead, nutrient-related indicator parameters, such as diel measurements of DO, pH, and/or chlorophyll-a, should be evaluated to determine attainment of the objective and protection of beneficial uses. When nutrient-related indicator parameters exceed targets, nutrient concentrations will then be analyzed to determine whether phosphorus should be added to a possible listing under the 303(d) List. Sample concentrations ranged from 0.21 to 0.86 mg/l. The samples were collected as part of the Russian River First Flush sampling event. Data are summarized by Katznelson et al. (2003).
Data Reference: 2002 Russian River First Flush Summary Report. Clean Water Team, Citizen Monitoring Program of the State Water Resources Control Board
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Per the Basin Plan (NCRWQCB 2007): Waters shall not contain biostimulatory substances in concentrations that promote aquatic growths to the extent that such growths cause nuisance, or that otherwise adversely affect beneficial uses.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) - North Coast Region (Region 1)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected from 5 sites in the Green Valley Creek Watershed as follows: (1) in Green Valley Creek at Martinelli Road; (2) in Atascadero Creek at the Green Valley Road bridge; (3) in Graton Gulch at Railroad Avenue; (4) in Atascadero Creek at Mill Station Road; and (5) in Atascadero Creek at Bodega Highway.
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected on November 7, 2002. At each site, 1 to 3 instantaneous grab samples were collected over half hour increments. The data are averaged for each site where multiple samples were collected.
Environmental Conditions: Samples were collected during the first runoff event of the rainy season.
QAPP Information: Samples were collected in accordance with the study plan and quality control procedures described by Katznelson et al. (2003).
QAPP Information Reference(s): 2002 Russian River First Flush Summary Report. Clean Water Team, Citizen Monitoring Program of the State Water Resources Control Board
 
 
DECISION ID
26201
Region 1     
Russian River HU, Lower Russian River HA, Guerneville HSA, Green Valley Creek watershed
 
Pollutant: Specific Conductivity
Final Listing Decision: Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)(2010)
Revision Status Original
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: Regional Water Board Conclusion:

This pollutant was considered for placement on the section 303(d) list in a previous Integrated Report cycle.

No new information was reviewed for this current Integrated Report cycle. Therefore, the previous conclusion remains unchanged, and is as follows:

This pollutant is being considered for placement on the Section 303(d) List under Section 3.2 of the Listing Policy. Under Section 3.2 a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status. One line of evidence is available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. The weight of evidence indicates that there is insufficient information available to determine if it is appropriate to place this water segment-pollutant combination on the Section 303(d) List in the Water Quality Limited Segments category. Three of the 4 specific conductivity samples exceed the evaluation guideline used to interpret the water quality objective, and this sample size is insufficient to determine with the power and confidence of the Listing Policy if standards are not met. A minimum of 5 samples are needed for application of Table 3.2, and only 4 samples are available. This conclusion is also based on the staff findings that: (1) The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of Section 6.1.4 of the Policy. (2) 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: No new data were assessed for this assessment cycle. The conclusion reached in the previous cycle remains the same. The Regional Board will update this decision when new data and information become available in a future assessment cycle.
 
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 26201, Specific Conductivity
Region 1     
Russian River HU, Lower Russian River HA, Guerneville HSA, Green Valley Creek watershed
 
LOE ID: 26084
 
Pollutant: Specific Conductivity
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Municipal & Domestic Supply
 
Number of Samples: 4
Number of Exceedances: 3
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Three of the 4 specific conductivity samples collected in the Green Valley Creek Watershed exceed the specific conductivity water quality objective. The sample concentrations range from 220 to 473 uS. The samples were collected as part of the Russian River First Flush sampling event. Data are summarized by Katznelson et al. (2003).
Data Reference: 2002 Russian River First Flush Summary Report. Clean Water Team, Citizen Monitoring Program of the State Water Resources Control Board
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Per the Basin Plan (NCRWQCB 2007): The 90% upper limit specific conductance objective at 77 F is 375 micromhos (or uS/cm2). The 50% upper limit specific conductance objective at 77 F is 285 micromhos (or uS/cm2). The 90% and 50% upper limits represent the 90/50 percentile values of the monthly means for a calendar year. 90% or 50% or more of the values must be less than or equal to the upper limit.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) - North Coast Region (Region 1)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected from 4 sites in the Green Valley Creek Watershed as follows: (1) in Green Valley Creek at Martinelli Road; (2) in Atascadero Creek at the Green Valley Road bridge; (3) in Graton Gulch at Railroad Avenue; and (4) in Atascadero Creek at Mill Station Road.
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected on November 7, 2002. At each site, 1 to 3 instantaneous grab samples were collected over half hour increments. The data are averaged for each site when multiple samples were collected..
Environmental Conditions: Samples were collected during the first runoff event of the rainy season.
QAPP Information: Samples were collected in accordance with the study plan and quality control procedures described by Katznelson et al. (2003).
QAPP Information Reference(s): 2002 Russian River First Flush Summary Report. Clean Water Team, Citizen Monitoring Program of the State Water Resources Control Board
 
 
DECISION ID
26202
Region 1     
Russian River HU, Lower Russian River HA, Guerneville HSA, Green Valley Creek watershed
 
Pollutant: pH
Final Listing Decision: Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)(2010)
Revision Status Original
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: Regional Water Board conclusion:

This pollutant was considered for placement on the section 303 (d) list in a previous Integrated Report cycle.

No new information was reviewed for this current Integrated Report cycle. Therefore, the previous conclusion remains unchanged, and is as follows:

This pollutant is being considered for placement on the Section 303(d) List under Section 3.2 of the Listing Policy. Under Section 3.2, a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status. Two lines of evidence are available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. None of the 88 pH 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 Section 303(d) List in the Water Quality Limited Segments category (i.e., sufficient justification to not 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) None of the 88 pH samples exceed water quality objective, and this does not exceed the allowable frequency listed in Table 3.2 of the Listing Policy. (4) Pursuant to Section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.
 
Regional Board Decision Recommendation: No new data were assessed for this assessment cycle. The conclusion reached in the previous cycle remains the same. The Regional Board will update this decision when new data and information become available in a future assessment cycle.
 
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 26202, pH
Region 1     
Russian River HU, Lower Russian River HA, Guerneville HSA, Green Valley Creek watershed
 
LOE ID: 26093
 
Pollutant: pH
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
Aquatic Life Use: Fish Migration | Fish Spawning | Freshwater Replenishment | Preservation of Rare & Endangered Species | Warm Freshwater Habitat | Wildlife Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 86
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: None of the 86 samples for pH collected in Green Valley Creek exceeded the pH water quality objective. The pH values ranged from 6.6 to 8.1. These samples were collected by the Community Clean Water Institute’s Volunteer Water Quality Monitoring Program (CCWI 2006, CCWI 2007).
Data Reference: Community Clean Water Institute Master Data for 2005. Downloaded from http://ccwi.org/issues/data.htm on August 25, 2008
  Community Clean Water Institute Master Data for 2006. Downloaded from http://ccwi.org/issues/data.htm on August 25, 2008
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Per the Basin Plan (NCRWQCB 2007): The maximum pH objective is 8.5. The minimum pH objective is 6.5.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) - North Coast Region (Region 1)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 7 sites along the entire mainstem of Green Valley Creek: from Harrison Grade and Green Valley Road to the Russian River confluence.
Temporal Representation: The pH samples were collected during 86 site visits from July 2005 to December 2006. The pH samples were collected as instantaneous measurements and do not represent diurnal conditions.
Environmental Conditions: There are no known environmental conditions (e.g., seasonality, land use practices, fire events, storms, etc.) that are related to these data.
QAPP Information: Samples were collected in accordance with the "Community Clean Water Institute Volunteer Water Quality Monitoring Program Sampling and Analysis Methods" (CCWI 2007).
QAPP Information Reference(s): Community Clean Water Institute Volunteer Water Quality Monitoring Program Sampling and Analysis Methods. Updated April 12, 2007
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 26202, pH
Region 1     
Russian River HU, Lower Russian River HA, Guerneville HSA, Green Valley Creek watershed
 
LOE ID: 26085
 
Pollutant: pH
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
Aquatic Life Use: Fish Migration | Fish Spawning | Freshwater Replenishment | Preservation of Rare & Endangered Species | Warm Freshwater Habitat | Wildlife Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 2
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: None of the 2 pH samples collected in the Green Valley Creek Watershed exceed the pH water quality objective. The sample pH concentrations range from 6.5 to 7. The samples were collected as part of the Russian River First Flush sampling event. Data are summarized by Katznelson et al. (2003).
Data Reference: 2002 Russian River First Flush Summary Report. Clean Water Team, Citizen Monitoring Program of the State Water Resources Control Board
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Per the Basin Plan (NCRWQCB 2007): The maximum pH objective is 8.5. The minimum pH objective is 6.5.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) - North Coast Region (Region 1)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected from 2 sites in the Green Valley Creek Watershed as follows: (1) in Atascadero Creek at the Green Valley Road bridge, and (2) in Atascadero Creek at Mill Station Road.
Temporal Representation: The samples were collected on November 7, 2002. At each site, 1 to 3 instantaneous grab samples were collected over half hour increments. The data are averaged for each site when multiple samples were collected..
Environmental Conditions: Samples were collected during the first runoff event of the rainy season.
QAPP Information: Samples were collected in accordance with the study plan and quality control procedures described by Katznelson et al. (2003).
QAPP Information Reference(s): 2002 Russian River First Flush Summary Report. Clean Water Team, Citizen Monitoring Program of the State Water Resources Control Board
 
 
DECISION ID
26437
Region 1     
Russian River HU, Lower Russian River HA, Guerneville HSA, Green Valley Creek watershed
 
Pollutant: Oxygen, Dissolved
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: Regional Water Board conclusion:

This pollutant was considered for placement on the section 303(d) List in a previous Integrated Report cycle.

No new information was reviewed for this current Integrated Report cycle. Therefore, the previous conclusion remains unchanged, and is as follows:

This pollutant is being considered for placement on the Section 303(d) List under Section 3.2 of the Listing Policy. Under Section 3.2 a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status. One line of evidence is available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant.

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

This conclusion is based on the staff findings that: (1) Seventeen out of 77 dissolved oxygen samples exceed the water quality objective, and this exceeds the allowable frequency of 12 listed in Table 3.2 of the Listing 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: No new data were assessed for this assessment cycle. The conclusion reached in the previous cycle remains the same. The Regional Board will update this decision when new data and information become available in a future assessment cycle.
 
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 26437, Oxygen, Dissolved
Region 1     
Russian River HU, Lower Russian River HA, Guerneville HSA, Green Valley Creek watershed
 
LOE ID: 26094
 
Pollutant: Oxygen, Dissolved
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
Aquatic Life Use: Fish Migration | Fish Spawning | Freshwater Replenishment | Preservation of Rare & Endangered Species | Warm Freshwater Habitat | Wildlife Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 77
Number of Exceedances: 17
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Seventeen of the 77 samples collected in Green Valley Creek exceeded the minimum DO water quality objective. Data were divided into two categories, 1) no spawning, incubation, and emergence occurring and 2) spawning, incubation, and emergence occurring. Presence and absence of salmonid species was determined by utilizing CDFG map (Brooks 2002). Timing of spawning, incubation, and emergence was determined utilizing Steiner Environmental Consulting (1996).

The DO values when no spawning, incubation, and emergence were occurring ranged from 2.3 mg/L to 11.3 mg/L (11 exceedences of the objective). DO values during times of spawning, incubation, and emergence ranged from 7.1 mg/L to 13.1 mg/L (6 exceedences of the objective).

These samples were collected by the Community Clean Water Institute’s Volunteer Water Quality Monitoring Program (CCWI 2006, and CCWI 2007).
Data Reference: Community Clean Water Institute Master Data for 2005. Downloaded from http://ccwi.org/issues/data.htm on August 25, 2008
  Community Clean Water Institute Master Data for 2006. Downloaded from http://ccwi.org/issues/data.htm on August 25, 2008
  Map of Historical Salmonid Streams and Calwater 2.2a Hydrologic Sub-Areas. California Department of Fish and Game, Central Coast Region. IHRMP North Coast GIS Lab. Hopland, CA
  A History of the Salmonid Decline in the Russian River.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Per the Basin Plan (NCRWQCB 2007): (1) Dissolved oxygen concentrations for waters not listed in Table 3-1, and where dissolved oxygen objectives are not prescribed, shall not be reduced below 6.0 mg/L for waters designated as COLD.
(2) Dissolved oxygen concentrations for waters not listed in Table 3-1, and where dissolved oxygen objectives are not prescribed, shall not be reduced below 9.0 mg/L for waters designated as SPWN during critical spawning and egg incubation periods.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) - North Coast Region (Region 1)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: The samples were collected at 7 sites along the entire mainstem of Green Valley Creek: from Harrison Grade and Green Valley Road to the Russian River confluence.
Temporal Representation: The DO samples were collected from July 2005 to December 2006. The DO samples were collected as instantaneous values and do not represent diurnal conditions.
Environmental Conditions: There are no known environmental conditions (e.g., seasonality, land use practices, fire events, storms, etc.) that are related to these data.
QAPP Information: Samples were collected in accordance with the "Community Clean Water Institute Volunteer Water Quality Monitoring Program Sampling and Analysis Methods" (CCWI 2007).
QAPP Information Reference(s): Community Clean Water Institute Volunteer Water Quality Monitoring Program Sampling and Analysis Methods. Updated April 12, 2007