Draft California 2018 Integrated Report (303(d) List/305(b) Report)

Supporting Information

Regional Board 1 - North Coast Region

Water Body Name: Mendocino Coast HU, Big River HA, Berry Gulch
Water Body ID: CAR1133004220020108163237
Water Body Type: River & Stream
 
DECISION ID
78898
Region 1     
Mendocino Coast HU, Big River HA, Berry Gulch
 
Pollutant: Oxygen, Dissolved
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)(2016)
Revision Status Revised
Sources: Source Unknown
Expected TMDL Completion Date: 2025
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Staff Conclusion: This pollutant is being considered for placement on the CWA section 303(d) List under section 3.2 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.2 a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status.

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

LOE 34048 was replaced with LOE 129884 due to updated objective thresholds.
LOE 34049 was replaced with LOE 129874 due to updated objective thresholds.
LOE 33961 was replaced with LOEs 129882 and 129880 due to updated objective thresholds.
LOE 34035 was replaced with LOE 129881 due to updated objective thresholds.

Nine of 20 samples exceed the objective for the COLD beneficial use in Rocky Gulch.
Nineteen of 46 samples exceed the objective for the COLD beneficial use in Little North Fork.
Sixteen of 16 samples exceed the objective for the COLD beneficial use in Manley Gulch.

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

1. The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy.
2. The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy.
3. Nine of 20 samples from Rocky Gulch, 19 of 46 samples from Little North Fork, and 16 of 16 samples from Manley Gulch exceed the objective and this exceeds the allowable frequency listed in Table 4.2 of the Listing Policy.
4. Pursuant to section 4.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are met.
 
Regional Board Staff Decision Recommendation: After review of the available data and information, RWQCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should not be removed from the section 303(d) list because applicable water quality standards for the pollutant are being exceeded.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 78898, Oxygen, Dissolved
Region 1     
Mendocino Coast HU, Big River HA, Berry Gulch
 
LOE ID: 129880
 
Pollutant: Oxygen, Dissolved
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 44
Number of Exceedances: 19
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Nineteen out of the 44 daily minimum dissolved oxygen (DO) samples exceeded the minimum DO water quality objective. This LOE is a copy of LOE 33961 from the 2012 Integrated Report. The data was reassessed based on new minimum thresholds for DO.
Data Reference: Data for temperature and conventional pollutants in Big River and Berry Gulch, Aug. 2008-Aug. 2010
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan, North Coast Basin, Chapter III, General Objectives for all Inland Surface Waters, Enclosed Bays and Estuaries states: Dissolved oxygen concentrations shall conform to those limits listed in Section 3.3.5. Section 3.3.5 lists dissolved oxygen concentration limits for COLD beneficial use waters to be a daily minimum of 6.0 mg/L and a 7-day moving average of 8.0 mg/L.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) for the North Coast Region
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: A total of nine stations (LLNF, LLNF-DSBraid-N, LLNF-DSBraidS, LNFhoboabovebrd, LNFhobocamp2, LNFhoboupper, MLNF-DSR, MLNF-LTP, ULNF-Sweat) were sampled along the Little North Fork. Measurements were recorded in situ from 1' and 3' depths. Exceedances for each station were determined using the minimum measured DO reading per day based on Section 6.1.5.6 of the Listing Policy.
Temporal Representation: Samples collected between 9/12/2008 and 8/26/2010.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: While no QAPP was completed for the sampling data reported, data submitters included a document detailing efforts taken during sampling (such as equipment calibration) to ensure that the data was of high quality.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 78898, Oxygen, Dissolved
Region 1     
Mendocino Coast HU, Big River HA, Berry Gulch
 
LOE ID: 129881
 
Pollutant: Oxygen, Dissolved
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 20
Number of Exceedances: 9
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Nine of the 20 daily minimum dissolved oxygen (DO) samples exceeded the minimum DO water quality objective. This LOE is a copy of LOE 34035 from the 2012 Integrated Report. The data was reassessed based on new minimum thresholds for DO.
Data Reference: Data for temperature and conventional pollutants in Big River and Berry Gulch, Aug. 2008-Aug. 2010
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan, North Coast Basin, Chapter III, General Objectives for all Inland Surface Waters, Enclosed Bays and Estuaries states: Dissolved oxygen concentrations shall conform to those limits listed in Section 3.3.5. Section 3.3.5 lists dissolved oxygen concentration limits for COLD beneficial use waters to be a daily minimum of 6.0 mg/L and a 7-day moving average of 8.0 mg/L.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) for the North Coast Region
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Samples collected at Rocky Gulch at site LRG.
Temporal Representation: Samples collected between 8/25/2008 and 8/26/2010.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: While no QAPP was completed for the sampling data reported, data submitters included a document detailing efforts taken during sampling (such as equipment calibration) to ensure that the data was of high quality.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 78898, Oxygen, Dissolved
Region 1     
Mendocino Coast HU, Big River HA, Berry Gulch
 
LOE ID: 133874
 
Pollutant: Oxygen, Dissolved
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 16
Number of Exceedances: 16
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Sixteen of 16 daily minimum dissolved oxygen (DO) samples exceeded the minimum DO water quality objective. This LOE is a copy of LOE 34049 from the 2012 Integrated Report. The data was reassessed based on new minimum thresholds for DO.
Data Reference: Data for temperature and conventional pollutants in Big River and Berry Gulch, Aug. 2008-Aug. 2010
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan, North Coast Basin, Chapter III, General Objectives for all Inland Surface Waters, Enclosed Bays and Estuaries states: Dissolved oxygen concentrations shall conform to those limits listed in Section 3.3.5. Section 3.3.5 lists dissolved oxygen concentration limits for COLD beneficial use waters to be a daily minimum of 6.0 mg/L and a 7-day moving average of 8.0 mg/L.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) for the North Coast Region
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: A total of one staton (LMG) were sampled in Manley Gulch. Measurements were recorded in situ from 1' and 3' depths. Exceedances for each station were determined using the minimum measured DO reading per day based on Section 6.1.5.6 of the Listing Policy.
Temporal Representation: Samples collected between 7/02/2009 and 8/26/2010.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: While no QAPP was completed for the sampling data reported, data submitters included a document detailing efforts taken during sampling (such as equipment calibration) to ensure that the data was of high quality.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 78898, Oxygen, Dissolved
Region 1     
Mendocino Coast HU, Big River HA, Berry Gulch
 
LOE ID: 33961
 
Pollutant: Oxygen, Dissolved
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 67
Number of Exceedances: 32
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Two samples were collected during the period of critical spawning, and neither sample violated the 9.0 mg/L dissolved oxygen objective. Sixty-five (65) samples were collected during non-critical spawning periods and 32 of the samples violated the 7.0 mg/L dissolved oxygen objective. Sample values ranged from 0.1 mg/L to 11.1 mg/L.
Data Reference: Data for temperature and conventional pollutants in Big River and Berry Gulch, Aug. 2008-Aug. 2010
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Per the Basin Plan (NCRWQCB 2011): (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 7.0 mg/L for waters designated as SPWN. (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) for the North Coast Region
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: A total of nine statons (LLNF, LLNF-DSBraid-N, LLNF-DSBraidS, LNFhoboabovebrd, LNFhobocamp2, LNFhoboupper, MLNF-DSR, MLNF-LTP, ULNF-Sweat) were sampled along the Little North Fork. Measurements were recorded in situ from 1' and 3' depths. Exceedances for each station were determined using the minimum measured DO reading per day based on Section 6.1.5.6 of the Listing Policy.
Temporal Representation: Samples collected between 9/12/2008 and 8/26/2010.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: While no QAPP was completed for the sampling data reported, data submitters included a document detailing efforts taken during sampling (such as equipment calibration) to ensure that the data was of high quality.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 78898, Oxygen, Dissolved
Region 1     
Mendocino Coast HU, Big River HA, Berry Gulch
 
LOE ID: 34035
 
Pollutant: Oxygen, Dissolved
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 20
Number of Exceedances: 9
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: All samples were collected during months when no critical spawning occurs. Nine of the 20 samples violated the dissolved oxygen water quality objective, as they were below the 7.0 mg/L dissolved oxygen objective for waters designated as SPWN. Dissolved Oxygen levels ranged from 3.0 mg/L to 9.7 mg/L.
Data Reference: Data for temperature and conventional pollutants in Big River and Berry Gulch, Aug. 2008-Aug. 2010
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Per the Basin Plan (NCRWQCB 2011): (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 7.0 mg/L for waters designated as SPWN. (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) for the North Coast Region
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Samples collected at Rocky Gulch at site LRG.
Temporal Representation: Samples collected between 8/25/2008 and 8/26/2010.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: While no QAPP was completed for the sampling data reported, data submitters included a document detailing efforts taken during sampling (such as equipment calibration) to ensure that the data was of high quality.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 78898, Oxygen, Dissolved
Region 1     
Mendocino Coast HU, Big River HA, Berry Gulch
 
LOE ID: 129884
 
Pollutant: Oxygen, Dissolved
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 11
Number of Exceedances: 4
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Four out of eleven daily minimum dissolved oxygen (DO) samples exceeded the minimum DO water quality objective. This LOE is a copy of LOE 34048 from the 2012 Integrated Report. The data was reassessed based on new minimum thresholds for DO.
Data Reference: Data for temperature and conventional pollutants in Big River and Berry Gulch, Aug. 2008-Aug. 2010
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan, North Coast Basin, Chapter III, General Objectives for all Inland Surface Waters, Enclosed Bays and Estuaries states: Dissolved oxygen concentrations shall conform to those limits listed in Section 3.3.5. Section 3.3.5 lists dissolved oxygen concentration limits for COLD beneficial use waters to be a daily minimum of 6.0 mg/L and a 7-day moving average of 8.0 mg/L.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) for the North Coast Region
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Samples collected in Thompson Gulch at station LTG.
Temporal Representation: Samples collected between 9/4/2009 and 8/26/2010.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: While no QAPP was completed for the sampling data reported, data submitters included a document detailing efforts taken during sampling (such as equipment calibration) to ensure that the data was of high quality.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 78898, Oxygen, Dissolved
Region 1     
Mendocino Coast HU, Big River HA, Berry Gulch
 
LOE ID: 34048
 
Pollutant: Oxygen, Dissolved
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 11
Number of Exceedances: 4
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: All samples were collected during months when no critical spawning occurs. Four of 11 samples violated the dissolved oxygen water quality objective, as they were below the 7.0 mg/L dissolved oxygen objective for waters designated as SPWN. Dissolved Oxygen levels ranged from 4.3 mg/L to 10.6 mg/L.
Data Reference: Data for temperature and conventional pollutants in Big River and Berry Gulch, Aug. 2008-Aug. 2010
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Per the Basin Plan (NCRWQCB 2011): (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 7.0 mg/L for waters designated as SPWN. (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) for the North Coast Region
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Samples collected in Thompson Gulch at station LTG.
Temporal Representation: Samples collected between 9/4/2009 and 8/26/2010.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: While no QAPP was completed for the sampling data reported, data submitters included a document detailing efforts taken during sampling (such as equipment calibration) to ensure that the data was of high quality.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 78898, Oxygen, Dissolved
Region 1     
Mendocino Coast HU, Big River HA, Berry Gulch
 
LOE ID: 101360
 
Pollutant: Oxygen, Dissolved
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 0
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: Not Specified
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: If DO concentrations fall below the numeric objectives set forth by the Basin Plan (2018). If NO, then the waterbody is supporting that beneficial use, if YES, then that waterbody is considered impaired.
Data Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) for the North Coast Region
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan, North Coast Region (NCRWQCB 2018): Dissolved oxygen (DO) concentrations shall conform to the numeric objectives expressed in section 3.3.5.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) for the North Coast Region
 
Evaluation Guideline: EVIDENCE OF SALMONID PRESENCE & LIFE CYCLE USE: Fish species present in this water body include Coho & Steelhead (Downie et al. 2006). Coho & Steelhead Spawning occurs Nov-March, out-migration is March to June (Downie et. al. 2006). Steelhead rear year round (R2 Resource Consultants, Inc. and Stetson Engineers, Inc. 2008). Waters within the Berry Gulch planning watershed are considered core rearing habitat.
Guideline Reference: Big River Basin Assessment. Coastal Watershed Assessment Program.
  North Coast Instream Flow Policy: Scientific and Development of Alternatives Protecting Anadromous Salmonids.
 
Spatial Representation: This information pertains to the Mendocino Coast HU, Big River HA (including Berry Gulch).
Temporal Representation: Data are reflective of current conditions in this water body.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Information is considered to be of adequate quality for the Integrated Report process.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 78898, Oxygen, Dissolved
Region 1     
Mendocino Coast HU, Big River HA, Berry Gulch
 
LOE ID: 129882
 
Pollutant: Oxygen, Dissolved
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
Aquatic Life Use: Fish Spawning
 
Number of Samples: 2
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Zero out of 2 daily minimum dissolved oxygen (DO) samples exceeded the minimum DO water quality objective. This LOE is a copy of LOE 33961 from the 2012 Integrated Report. The data was reassessed based on new minimum thresholds for DO.
Data Reference: Data for temperature and conventional pollutants in Big River and Berry Gulch, Aug. 2008-Aug. 2010
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan, North Coast Basin, Chapter III, General Objectives for all Inland Surface Waters, Enclosed Bays and Estuaries states: Dissolved oxygen concentrations shall conform to those limits listed in Section 3.3.5. Section 3.3.5 lists dissolved oxygen concentration limits for SPAWN beneficial use waters to be a daily minimum of 9.0 mg/L and a 7-day moving average of 11.0 mg/L.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) for the North Coast Region
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: A total of two statons (LLNF, MLNF-LTP) were sampled along the Little North Fork. Measurements were recorded in situ from 1' and 3' depths. Exceedances for each station were determined using the minimum measured DO reading per day based on Section 6.1.5.6 of the Listing Policy.
Temporal Representation: Samples collected between 2/07/2009 and 12/1/2009.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: While no QAPP was completed for the sampling data reported, data submitters included a document detailing efforts taken during sampling (such as equipment calibration) to ensure that the data was of high quality.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 78898, Oxygen, Dissolved
Region 1     
Mendocino Coast HU, Big River HA, Berry Gulch
 
LOE ID: 34049
 
Pollutant: Oxygen, Dissolved
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 16
Number of Exceedances: 16
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: All samples were collected during months when no critical spawning occurs. All 16 samples violated the dissolved oxygen water quality objective, as they were below the 7.0 mg/L dissolved oxygen objective for waters designated as SPWN. Dissolved Oxygen levels ranged from 0.7 mg/L to 3.8 mg/L.
Data Reference: Data for temperature and conventional pollutants in Big River and Berry Gulch, Aug. 2008-Aug. 2010
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Per the Basin Plan (NCRWQCB 2011): (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 7.0 mg/L for waters designated as SPWN. (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) for the North Coast Region
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Samples collected in Manley Gulch at station LMG.
Temporal Representation: Samples collected between 9/12/2008 and 8/26/2010.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: While no QAPP was completed for the sampling data reported, data submitters included a document detailing efforts taken during sampling (such as equipment calibration) to ensure that the data was of high quality.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
 
DECISION ID
72924
Region 1     
Mendocino Coast HU, Big River HA, Berry Gulch
 
Pollutant: Temperature, water
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)(2016)
Revision Status Original
Sources: Flow Alteration/Regulation/Modification | Removal of Riparian Vegetation
Expected TMDL Completion Date: 2025
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Staff Conclusion: Regional Board Conclusion:

The pollutant was considered for placement on the section 303(d) list in a previous assessment cycle.

No new information was reviewed for this current assessment 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. Eight lines of evidence are available in the administrative record. It should be noted that data from a ninth LOE from the 2006 Integrated Report (LOE 1693) was re-assessed during this listing cycle in LOEs 31468 and 31469.

Sixteen of 17 MWMTs from the Little North Fork exceed the evaluation guideline.

There are only 16 grab samples from Manley Gulch (LOE 32922), 20 grab samples from Rocky Gulch (LOE 32857), 10 grab samples from Cookhouse Gulch (LOE 32873), and 11 grab samples from Thompson Gulch (LOE 32856) and no exceedances of the evaluation guideline used to interpret the narrative objective. Additionally, 2 of 6 MWMTs exceed the evaluation guideline for data from the East Branch of the Little North Fork. However, none of these sample sizes are sufficient to determine with the power and confidence of the Listing Policy if the cold freshwater habitat (COLD) beneficial use is being protected in these water bodies, as a minimum of either (1) 26 samples, or (2) greater than or equal 5 exceedances of the COLD criteria with less than 26 samples is needed for application of Table 3.2.

Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is sufficient justification in favor of placing the Little North Fork on the section 303(d) list for temperature in the Water Quality Limited Segments category (i.e., sufficient justification to 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) Sixteen of 17 MWMTs from the Little North Fork exceed the evaluation guideline and this exceeds the allowable frequency listed in Table 3.2 of the Listing Policy. (4) Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.
 
Regional Board Staff Decision Recommendation: This is a decision previously approved by the State Water Resources Control Board and the USEPA. No new data were assessed by the Regional Board for the current cycle. The decision has not changed.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 72924, Temperature, water
Region 1     
Mendocino Coast HU, Big River HA, Berry Gulch
 
LOE ID: 1693
 
Pollutant: Temperature, water
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 2281
Number of Exceedances: 358
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: When the data was compared to the 14.8 °C threshold, there were 358 exceedances out of 2,881 samples taken over the all of the sampling years at this location. When compared to the 17°C threshold there were no exceedances found for any of the data. (Hawthorne Timber Co., 2003)
Data Reference: Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Basin Plan: Temperature objectives for COLD interstate waters, WARM interstate waters, and Enclosed Bays and Estuaries are as specified in the "Water Quality Control Plan for Control of Temperature in the Coastal and Interstate Waters and Enclosed Bays of California" including any revisions thereto. A copy of this plan is included verbatim in the Appendix Section of this Plan. In addition, the following temperature objectives apply to surface waters: The natural receiving water temperature of intrastate waters shall not be altered unless it can be demonstrated to the satisfaction of the Regional Water Board that such alteration in temperature does not adversely affect beneficial uses. At no time or place shall the temperature of any COLD water be increased by more than 5°F above natural receiving water temperature. At no time or place shall the temperature of WARM intrastate waters be increased more than 5°F above natural receiving water temperature.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)
 
Evaluation Guideline: The guideline used was from Sullivan et al. (2000) Published Temperature Thresholds-Peer Reviewed Literature which includes reviewed sub-lethal and acute temperature thresholds from a wide range of studies, incorporating information from laboratory-based research, field observations, and risk assessment approaches. This report calculated the 7-day Mean (maximum value of the 7-day moving average of the daily mean temperature) upper threshold criterion for coho salmon as 14.8°C and for steelhead trout as 17.0°C. The risk assessment approach used by Sullivan et al. (2000) suggests that an upper threshold for the for the 7-day average of 14.8°C for coho and 17.0°C for steelhead will reduce average growth 10% from optimum.
Guideline Reference: Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)
 
Spatial Representation: There were 3 sampling locations. Hobo-Temps were placed in the pools near the bottom and towards the deepest portion to record the in-stream temperatures. In stream and riparian measurements were taken at all monitoring locations.
Temporal Representation: Data was recorded for 1994, 1995, 1996, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002 and 2003. Water temperature data were recorded at ninety-minute intervals, generally from June until Mid-October. Stream temperatures were measured continuously with temperature data loggers (Onset Computer Corp. model HOBO-Temp and OST temperature loggers) in Class 1 streams throughout the property from 1994 to 2003. Hobo-temps allowed uninterrupted data collection to occur throughout the critical over summer period.
Environmental Conditions: The Mendocino Coast HU, Big River HA, Big River segment was listed on the 2002 section 303(d)List, the Mendocino Coast HU, Big River HA, Berry Gulch segment was not included in this listing at that time.
QAPP Information: QA/QC Information Summary was submitted. Installation of the temperature data logger (Onset Computer Corp. model HOBO-Temp and OST temperature loggers in Class 1 streams throughout the property devices occurred one day before the first day logged on the continuous temperature monitoring figures. This was done to allow the data loggers to reach equilibrium with the instream temperature regimes and to capture complete daily cycles. No information on equipment calibration, standard operating procedures or data protocols were included with the submittal.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 72924, Temperature, water
Region 1     
Mendocino Coast HU, Big River HA, Berry Gulch
 
LOE ID: 32857
 
Pollutant: Temperature, water
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 20
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: None of the twenty temperature grab samples from Rocky Gulch exceeded the evaluation guideline. Temperatures ranged from 10.1 degrees Celsius to 15.4 degrees Celsius.
Data Reference: Data for temperature and conventional pollutants in Big River and Berry Gulch, Aug. 2008-Aug. 2010
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan, North Coast Region (NCRWQCB 2011): Natural receiving water temperature of intrastate waters shall not be altered unless it can be demonstrated to the satisfaction of the Regional Board that such alteration in temperature does not adversely affect beneficial uses. At no time or place shall the temperature of any COLD water be increased more than 5 degrees Fahrenheit (F) above natural receiving water temperature.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) for the North Coast Region
 
Evaluation Guideline: According to Carter (2008) the lethal threshold for juvenile steelhead growth & rearing is 24 degrees Celsius (C).
Guideline Reference: Effects of Temperature, Dissolved Oxygen/Total Dissolved Gas, Ammonia, and pH on Salmonids. Implications for California's North Coast TMDLs. California Regional Water Quality Control Board, North Coast Region
 
Spatial Representation: Grab samples were collected at one location on Rocky Gulch at site LRG.
Temporal Representation: Grab samples were collected 8/2008, 9/2008, 6/2009 - 10/2009, and 5/2010 - 8/2010.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Information was submitted detailing efforts taken during sampling (such as equipment calibration) to ensure that the data was of high quality.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 72924, Temperature, water
Region 1     
Mendocino Coast HU, Big River HA, Berry Gulch
 
LOE ID: 32922
 
Pollutant: Temperature, water
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 16
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: None of the sixteen grab samples from Manley Gulch exceeded the evauation guideline. Temperatures ranged from 9.8 degrees Celsius to 13.5 degrees Celsius (C).
Data Reference: Data for temperature and conventional pollutants in Big River and Berry Gulch, Aug. 2008-Aug. 2010
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan, North Coast Region (NCRWQCB 2011): Natural receiving water temperature of intrastate waters shall not be altered unless it can be demonstrated to the satisfaction of the Regional Board that such alteration in temperature does not adversely affect beneficial uses. At no time or place shall the temperature of any COLD water be increased more than 5 degrees Fahrenheit (F) above natural receiving water temperature.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) for the North Coast Region
 
Evaluation Guideline: According to Carter (2008) the lethal threshold for juvenile steelhead growth & rearing is 24 degrees Celsius (C).
Guideline Reference: Effects of Temperature, Dissolved Oxygen/Total Dissolved Gas, Ammonia, and pH on Salmonids. Implications for California's North Coast TMDLs. California Regional Water Quality Control Board, North Coast Region
 
Spatial Representation: Grab samples were collected at one location on Manly Gulch at LMG.
Temporal Representation: Grab samples were collected 6/2009 - 10/2009, and 5/2010 - 8/2010.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Information was submitted detailing efforts taken during sampling (such as equipment calibration) to ensure that the data was of high quality.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 72924, Temperature, water
Region 1     
Mendocino Coast HU, Big River HA, Berry Gulch
 
LOE ID: 32873
 
Pollutant: Temperature, water
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 10
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: None of the ten temperature grab samples from Cookhouse Gulch exceeded the evaluation guideline. Temperatures ranged from 9.6 degrees Celsius to 15.1 degrees Celsius.
Data Reference: Data for temperature and conventional pollutants in Big River and Berry Gulch, Aug. 2008-Aug. 2010
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan, North Coast Region (NCRWQCB 2011): Natural receiving water temperature of intrastate waters shall not be altered unless it can be demonstrated to the satisfaction of the Regional Board that such alteration in temperature does not adversely affect beneficial uses. At no time or place shall the temperature of any COLD water be increased more than 5 degrees Fahrenheit (F) above natural receiving water temperature.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) for the North Coast Region
 
Evaluation Guideline: According to Carter (2008) the lethal threshold for juvenile steelhead growth & rearing is 24 degrees Celsius (C).
Guideline Reference: Effects of Temperature, Dissolved Oxygen/Total Dissolved Gas, Ammonia, and pH on Salmonids. Implications for California's North Coast TMDLs. California Regional Water Quality Control Board, North Coast Region
 
Spatial Representation: Grab samples were collected at two locations on Cookhouse Gulch at sites CHG-AM-BC and CHG-BM. Sites were more than 200 meters apart, and a tributary appears to enter Cookhouse Gulch between sites.
Temporal Representation: Grab samples were collected 5/2010 - 8/2010.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Information was submitted detailing efforts taken during sampling (such as equipment calibration) to ensure that the data was of high quality.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 72924, Temperature, water
Region 1     
Mendocino Coast HU, Big River HA, Berry Gulch
 
LOE ID: 32856
 
Pollutant: Temperature, water
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 11
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: None of the eleven temperature grab samples from Thompson Gulch exceeded the evaluation guideline. Temperatures ranged from 9.5 degrees Celsius to 13.6 degrees Celsius.
Data Reference: Data for temperature and conventional pollutants in Big River and Berry Gulch, Aug. 2008-Aug. 2010
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan, North Coast Region (NCRWQCB 2011): Natural receiving water temperature of intrastate waters shall not be altered unless it can be demonstrated to the satisfaction of the Regional Board that such alteration in temperature does not adversely affect beneficial uses. At no time or place shall the temperature of any COLD water be increased more than 5 degrees Fahrenheit (F) above natural receiving water temperature.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) for the North Coast Region
 
Evaluation Guideline: According to Carter (2008) the lethal threshold for juvenile steelhead growth & rearing is 24 degrees Celsius (C).
Guideline Reference: Effects of Temperature, Dissolved Oxygen/Total Dissolved Gas, Ammonia, and pH on Salmonids. Implications for California's North Coast TMDLs. California Regional Water Quality Control Board, North Coast Region
 
Spatial Representation: Grab samples were collected at one location on Thompson Gulch at site LTG.
Temporal Representation: Grab samples were collected 9/2009, 10/2009, and 5/2010 - 8/2010.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Information was submitted detailing efforts taken during sampling (such as equipment calibration) to ensure that the data was of high quality.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 72924, Temperature, water
Region 1     
Mendocino Coast HU, Big River HA, Berry Gulch
 
LOE ID: 31718
 
Pollutant: Temperature, water
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 65
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: None of the sixtyfive grab samples from the Little North Fork exceeded the evauation guideline. Temperatures ranged from 9.3 degrees Celsius to 15.5 degrees Celsius (C).
Data Reference: Data for temperature and conventional pollutants in Big River and Berry Gulch, Aug. 2008-Aug. 2010
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan, North Coast Region (NCRWQCB 2011): Natural receiving water temperature of intrastate waters shall not be altered unless it can be demonstrated to the satisfaction of the Regional Board that such alteration in temperature does not adversely affect beneficial uses. At no time or place shall the temperature of any COLD water be increased more than 5 degrees Fahrenheit (F) above natural receiving water temperature.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) for the North Coast Region
 
Evaluation Guideline: According to Carter (2008) the lethal threshold for juvenile steelhead growth & rearing is 24 degrees Celsius (C).
Guideline Reference: Effects of Temperature, Dissolved Oxygen/Total Dissolved Gas, Ammonia, and pH on Salmonids. Implications for California's North Coast TMDLs. California Regional Water Quality Control Board, North Coast Region
 
Spatial Representation: Grab samples were collected at nine locations on the Little North Fork at sites LLNF, LLNF-DSBraid-N, LLNRF-DSBraidS, LNFhoboabovebrd, LNFhobocamp2, LNFhoboupper, MLNF-DSR, MLNF-LTP, and ULNF-Sweat.
Temporal Representation: Grab samples were collected 9/2008, 10/2008, 6/2009 - 10/2009, and 5/2010 - 8/2010.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Information was submitted detailing efforts taken during sampling (such as equipment calibration) to ensure that the data was of high quality.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 72924, Temperature, water
Region 1     
Mendocino Coast HU, Big River HA, Berry Gulch
 
LOE ID: 31468
 
Pollutant: Temperature, water
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 6
Number of Exceedances: 2
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Temperature data were evaluated against the temperature requirements of the beneficial use most sensitive to increases in temperature, salmonids. The most sensitive lifestage occurring during July & August when the MWMTs occur is rearing. 2 of 6 MWMT values calculated from temperature samples collected in the East Branch Little North Fork exceed the evaluation guideline for the protection of core-rearing. MWMT values ranged from 14.1 to 17.1 degrees C. This LOE and LOE 31469 replace LOE 1693 from the 2006 Listing Cycle. In LOE 1693 the raw temperature data was compared to the MWAT evaluation guideline, when in fact MWAT values should have been calculated from the raw data and compared to the MWAT evaluation guideline. For this listing cycle we are utilizing an MWMT evaluation guideline, instead of an MWAT, as it better captures temperature extremes.
Data Reference: Instream temperature monitoring information: Usal Creek, Ten Mile River (north and south forks), Big River, Salmon Creek. Arcata, CA: Campbell Timberland Management
  Stream Temperature Data from 1994 to 2003 for the Mendocino Coast HU, Big River HA, Big River and Mendocino Coast HU, Big River HA, Berry Gulch.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan, North Coast Region (NCRWQCB 2011): Natural receiving water temperature of intrastate waters shall not be altered unless it can be demonstrated to the satisfaction of the Regional Water Board that such alteration in temperature does not adversely affect beneficial uses. At no time or place shall the temperature of any COLD water be increased more than 5 degrees Fahrenheit (F) above natural receiving water temperature.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) for the North Coast Region
 
Evaluation Guideline: If the natural receiving water temperature has been altered, or if alternation is unknown, the evaluation guideline to determine adverse affect on the most sensitive beneficial use (in this case, salmonids) is as follows. Per "U.S. EPA Region 10 Guidance for Pacific Northwest State and Tribal Temperature Water Quality Standards" (USEPA 2003), the U.S. EPA recommends a criterion for the protection of moderate to high density summertime salmon and trout juvenile rearing (i.e., core juvenile rearing) of a maximum weekly maximum temperature (MWMT) of 16 degrees C. The MWMT is also known as the maximum 7-day average of daily maximums (7DADM). The 16 degrees C MWMT criterion is recommended to (1) safely protect juvenile salmon and trout from lethal temperatures; (2) provide upper optimal conditions for juvenile growth under limited food during the period of summer maximum temperatures and optimal temperatures for other times of the growth season; (3) avoid temperatures where juvenile salmon and trout are at a competitive disadvantage with other fish; (4) protect against temperature induced elevated disease rates; and (5) provide temperatures that studies show juvenile salmon and trout prefer and are found in high densities.
Guideline Reference: EPA Region 10 Guidance for Pacific Northwest State and Tribal Temperature Water Quality Standards. EPA 910-B-03-002. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Region 10 Office of Water, Seattle, WA.
 
Spatial Representation: Continuous temperature data were collected on the East Branch Little North Fork above the confluence with the Little North Fork (BIG 9).
Temporal Representation: Continuous temperature data was collected from spring (late May -early June depending on year) to fall (mid September - early November depending on year) during 1995, 1998-2001, and 2003.
Environmental Conditions: There are no known environmental conditions (e.g., seasonality, land use practices, fire events, storms, etc.) that are related to the temperature data.
QAPP Information: QA/QC information from 2006 was not available for this LOE update. The following language is copied from the original 2006 LOE 1693 QA/QC field. QA/QC Information Summary submitted. Installation of the temperature data logger (Onset Computer Corp. model HOBO-Temp and OST temperature loggers in Class 1 streams throughout the property devices occurred one day before the first day logged on the continuous temperature monitoring figures. This was done to allow the data loggers to reach equilibrium with the instream temperature regimes and to capture complete daily cycles. No information on equipment calibration, standard operating procedures or data protocols were included with the submittal.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 72924, Temperature, water
Region 1     
Mendocino Coast HU, Big River HA, Berry Gulch
 
LOE ID: 31511
 
Pollutant: Temperature, water
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 0
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: Not Specified
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: The following process is utilized to interpret the narrative Temperature Objective in the Basin Plan for impairment assessments. Step 1: determine if temperatures reflect natural conditions. If Yes, then the water body is not considered impaired, if No, Then go to Step 2. Step 2: Determine if temperatures adversely affect beneficial uses. If Yes, then the water body is considered impaired, if No, then go to Step 3. Step 3: Determine if temperatures are increased by 5 degrees F. If Yes, then water body is impaired, if No, then water body is not impaired.
Data Reference: Presentation: Interpreting Temperature Standards in the North Coast Region. North Coast Regional Water Quality Control Board.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan, North Coast Region (NCRWQCB 2011): Natural receiving water temperature of intrastate waters shall not be altered unless it can be demonstrated to the satisfaction of the Regional Water Board that such alteration in temperature does not adversely affect beneficial uses. At no time or place shall the temperature of any COLD water be increased more than 5 degrees Fahrenheit (F) above natural receiving water temperature.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) for the North Coast Region
 
Evaluation Guideline: EVIDENCE OF ALTERATION OF NATURAL RECEIVING WATER TEMPERATURE: The water temperatures of the Big River HA, including the Berry Gulch planning watershed, do not reflect natural conditions as environmental factors that influence water temperature have been altered by human activities. One example of human alteration is found when comparing current and historic aerial imagery, which shows anthropogenic land use activities have altered the riparian canopy in areas of the Big River watershed. Timber harvest activities have altered the near stream landscape, which is currently comprised of smaller diameter forest stands than in pre-European times (61% of trees in 75-100 feet wide watercourse buffer zones have diameter at breast height less than 24 inches) (Downie et al. 2006). This removal of riparian canopy has resulted in a loss of shade and altered stream temperatures. EVIDENCE OF SALMONID PRESENCE & LIFE CYCLE USE: Fish species present in this water body include Coho & Steelhead (Downie et al. 2006). Coho & Steelhead Spawning occurs Nov-March, out-migration is March to June (Downie et. al. 2006). Steelhead rear year round (R2 Resource Consultants, Inc. and Stetson Engineers, Inc. 2008). Waters within the Berry Gulch planning watershed are considered core rearing habitat.
Guideline Reference: Big River Basin Assessment. Coastal Watershed Assessment Program.
  North Coast Instream Flow Policy: Scientific and Development of Alternatives Protecting Anadromous Salmonids.
 
Spatial Representation: This information pertains to the Mendocino Coast HU, Big River HA (including Berry Gulch).
Temporal Representation: Data are reflective of current conditions in this water body.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Information is considered to be of adequate quality for the Integrated Report.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 72924, Temperature, water
Region 1     
Mendocino Coast HU, Big River HA, Berry Gulch
 
LOE ID: 31469
 
Pollutant: Temperature, water
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Cold Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 17
Number of Exceedances: 16
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Temperature data were evaluated against the temperature requirements of the beneficial use most sensitive to increases in temperature, salmonids. The most sensitive lifestage occurring during July & August when the MWMTs occur is rearing. 16 of 17 MWMT values calculated from temperature samples collected in the Little North Fork exceed the evaluation guideline for the protection of core-rearing. MWMT values ranged from 15.3 to 18.1 degrees C. This LOE and LOE 31468 replace LOE 1693 from the 2006 Listing Cycle. In LOE 1693 the raw temperature data was compared to the MWAT evaluation guideline, when in fact MWAT values should have been calculated from the raw data and compared to the MWAT evaluation guideline. For this listing cycle we are utilizing an MWMT evaluation guideline, instead of an MWAT, as it better captures temperature extremes.
Data Reference: Instream temperature monitoring information: Usal Creek, Ten Mile River (north and south forks), Big River, Salmon Creek. Arcata, CA: Campbell Timberland Management
  Stream Temperature Data from 1994 to 2003 for the Mendocino Coast HU, Big River HA, Big River and Mendocino Coast HU, Big River HA, Berry Gulch.
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan, North Coast Region (NCRWQCB 2011): Natural receiving water temperature of intrastate waters shall not be altered unless it can be demonstrated to the satisfaction of the Regional Water Board that such alteration in temperature does not adversely affect beneficial uses. At no time or place shall the temperature of any COLD water be increased more than 5 degrees Fahrenheit (F) above natural receiving water temperature.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) for the North Coast Region
 
Evaluation Guideline: If the natural receiving water temperature has been altered, or if alternation is unknown, the evaluation guideline to determine adverse affect on the most sensitive beneficial use (in this case, salmonids) is as follows. Per "U.S. EPA Region 10 Guidance for Pacific Northwest State and Tribal Temperature Water Quality Standards" (USEPA 2003), the U.S. EPA recommends a criterion for the protection of moderate to high density summertime salmon and trout juvenile rearing (i.e., core juvenile rearing) of a maximum weekly maximum temperature (MWMT) of 16 degrees C. The MWMT is also known as the maximum 7-day average of daily maximums (7DADM). The 16 degrees C MWMT criterion is recommended to (1) safely protect juvenile salmon and trout from lethal temperatures; (2) provide upper optimal conditions for juvenile growth under limited food during the period of summer maximum temperatures and optimal temperatures for other times of the growth season; (3) avoid temperatures where juvenile salmon and trout are at a competitive disadvantage with other fish; (4) protect against temperature induced elevated disease rates; and (5) provide temperatures that studies show juvenile salmon and trout prefer and are found in high densities.
Guideline Reference: EPA Region 10 Guidance for Pacific Northwest State and Tribal Temperature Water Quality Standards. EPA 910-B-03-002. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Region 10 Office of Water, Seattle, WA.
 
Spatial Representation: Continuous temperature data were collected at two locations on the Little North Fork: Little North Fork above the East Branch Little North Fork (BIG 10) and Little North Fork below East Branch Little North Fork (BIG 8).
Temporal Representation: Continuous temperature data was collected at both monitoring locations from spring (April-early June depending on year) to fall (mid September - early November depending on year) during 1994-1996, 1998-2001, and 2003. Data was also collected at BIG 8 from June to September in 2002.
Environmental Conditions: There are no known environmental conditions (e.g., seasonality, land use practices, fire events, storms, etc.) that are related to the temperature data.
QAPP Information: QA/QC information from 2006 was not available for this LOE update. The following language is copied from the original 2006 LOE 1693 QA/QC field. QA/QC Information Summary submitted. Installation of the temperature data logger (Onset Computer Corp. model HOBO-Temp and OST temperature loggers in Class 1 streams throughout the property devices occurred one day before the first day logged on the continuous temperature monitoring figures. This was done to allow the data loggers to reach equilibrium with the instream temperature regimes and to capture complete daily cycles. No information on equipment calibration, standard operating procedures or data protocols were included with the submittal.
QAPP Information Reference(s): Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)
 
 
DECISION ID
78420
Region 1     
Mendocino Coast HU, Big River HA, Berry Gulch
 
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)(2016)
Revision Status Original
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Staff Conclusion: Regional Board Conclusion:

The pollutant was considered for placement on the section 303(d) list in a previous assessment cycle.

No new information was reviewed for this current assessment 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 this section of the policy, a minimum of one line of evidence is needed to assess listing status. Four lines of evidence are available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant.

Zero of eleven samples from Thompson Gulch (LOE 32879), zero of twenty samples from Rocky Gulch (LOE 32878), and zero of sixteen samples from Manley Gulch (LOE 32877) exceed the 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 (1) 26 samples, or (2) greater than or equal 5 exceedances of the MUN objective with less than 26 samples is needed for application of Table 3.2.

Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is sufficient justification against placing this water segment-pollutant combination on the section 303(d) list in the Water Quality Limited Segments category. This conclusion is based on the staff findings that: (1) The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy. (2) The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy. (3) None of the seventy-three samples from the Little North Fork exceed the objective, and this does not exceed the allowable frequency listed in Table 3.2 of the Listing Policy. (4) Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.
 
Regional Board Staff Decision Recommendation: This region was not assessed this cycle. All decisions have been carried over from the previous cycle and remain the same.
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 78420, Specific Conductivity
Region 1     
Mendocino Coast HU, Big River HA, Berry Gulch
 
LOE ID: 32878
 
Pollutant: Specific Conductivity
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Municipal & Domestic Supply
 
Number of Samples: 20
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: None of the 20 samples exceeded the objective.
Data Reference: Data for temperature and conventional pollutants in Big River and Berry Gulch, Aug. 2008-Aug. 2010
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Per the Basin Plan (NCRWQCB 2011): 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. Per 22 CCR 64449: The recommended secondary Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) is 900 uS/cm.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) for the North Coast Region
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Samples were collected in Rocky Gulch (LRG).
Temporal Representation: Samples were collected between 8/25/2008 and 8/26/2010.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Information was submitted detailing efforts taken during sampling (such as equipment calibration) to ensure that the data was of high quality.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 78420, Specific Conductivity
Region 1     
Mendocino Coast HU, Big River HA, Berry Gulch
 
LOE ID: 32879
 
Pollutant: Specific Conductivity
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Municipal & Domestic Supply
 
Number of Samples: 11
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: None of the 11 samples exceeded the objective.
Data Reference: Data for temperature and conventional pollutants in Big River and Berry Gulch, Aug. 2008-Aug. 2010
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Per the Basin Plan (NCRWQCB 2011): 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. Per 22 CCR 64449: The recommended secondary Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) is 900 uS/cm.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) for the North Coast Region
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Samples were collected in Thompson Gulch (LTG).
Temporal Representation: Samples were collected between 9/4/2009 and 8/26/2010.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Information was submitted detailing efforts taken during sampling (such as equipment calibration) to ensure that the data was of high quality.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 78420, Specific Conductivity
Region 1     
Mendocino Coast HU, Big River HA, Berry Gulch
 
LOE ID: 32876
 
Pollutant: Specific Conductivity
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Municipal & Domestic Supply
 
Number of Samples: 73
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: None of the 73 samples (samples collected at same site at different depths on the same day were averaged) exceeded the secondary MCL.
Data Reference: Data for temperature and conventional pollutants in Big River and Berry Gulch, Aug. 2008-Aug. 2010
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Per the Basin Plan (NCRWQCB 2011): 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) for the North Coast Region
 
Evaluation Guideline: Per 22 CCR 64449: The recommended secondary Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) is 900 uS/cm.
Guideline Reference: Secondary Maximum Contaminant Levels and Compliance. CCR title 22 section 64449.
 
Spatial Representation: Samples were collected in Little North Fork (LLNF, MLNF-DSR, MLNF-LTP).
Temporal Representation: Grab samples were collected between 9/12/2008 and 8/26/2010.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Information was submitted detailing efforts taken during sampling (such as equipment calibration) to ensure that the data was of high quality.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 78420, Specific Conductivity
Region 1     
Mendocino Coast HU, Big River HA, Berry Gulch
 
LOE ID: 32877
 
Pollutant: Specific Conductivity
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Municipal & Domestic Supply
 
Number of Samples: 16
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: None of the 16 samples exceeded the objective.
Data Reference: Data for temperature and conventional pollutants in Big River and Berry Gulch, Aug. 2008-Aug. 2010
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Per the Basin Plan (NCRWQCB 2011): 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. Per 22 CCR 64449: The recommended secondary Maximum Contaminant Level (secondary MCL) is 900 uS/cm.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) for the North Coast Region
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Samples were collected in Manley Gulch (LMG).
Temporal Representation: Grab samples were collected between 6/27/2009 and 8/26/2010.
Environmental Conditions:
QAPP Information: Information was submitted detailing efforts taken during sampling (such as equipment calibration) to ensure that the data was of high quality.
QAPP Information Reference(s):