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Abstract
Analysis of water quality data collected from twenty-one water
quality surveillance stations located in the South Platte River Basin
of Colorado indicate significant deterioration of surface water quality
in the metropolitan Denver Area. Data collected from 1968 through 1972
show an increase in bacteriological contaminants in the recent years.
Total cpliform bacteria concentrations increase three orders of magnitude
to 5xl05 organisms per 100 ml through the metropolitan area and this
degradation continues downstream to Nebraska. In a similar fashion, fecal
coliform bacteria concentrations increase about two orders of magnitude
to 5000 organisms per 100 ml. Concentrations of dissolved oxygen, as
measured, show a complex variation with time but the low concentrations
(<5mg/l) are limited to the immediate metropolitan area and occur approxi-
mately twenty percent of the time (in 1972). BODc concentrations have
increased significantly in the latter part of 1972 and early 1973 in the
stream reach immediately downstream from the Denver Metropolitan area,
and are thought to relate primarily to increased organic waste discharges
from the Denver Metro Sewage Treatment Plant. Any pH problems appear
related to alkaline runoff since low pH's have not been observed. Water
temperatures are generally within biological bounds, but data are lacking
for tributaries and discharge mixing zones. Nutrient data suggest that
concentrations are high enough to be of concern insofar as algal growth
potential is concerned.
Comparison of the surface water quality data with objectives of
improving the surface water quality shows a need to decrease coliform
concentrations and increase dissolved oxygen concentrations in the South
Platte River. The analysis also points out certain weaknesses in the
present frequency of sample collection and analysis from the surveillance
network.
A surface water quality monitoring system comprised of thirteen
long-term stations is proposed. Also proposed is a shorter-term sampling
program to define such variables as mixing zones, ground water recharge,
flow rates, effect of barriers, and the impact on quality of minor
tributaries and "storm" drains.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
PAGE
Abstract i
Introduction and Purpose. . . . . 1
Classifications of Waters of the South Platte River Basin 2
Current and "Objective"
Water Quality Data for South Platte River Basin 3
Introduction - Stations Examined 3
Method of Analysis of Data 3
Col i form Bacteria Measurements 9
Dissolved Oxygen Measurements. . . . . 18
Biochemical Oxygen Demand Measurements 22
Hydrogen Ion Measurements 25
Temperature Measurements. . .. 25
Nutrient Measurements 28
Comparison of Data from Short-Term and Long-Term Sampling. ... 32
Adequacy of Data 32
Summary of Long-Term Measurements 39
Present Concentrations - Main Stem 39
Long-Term Trends - Main Stem. . . . 39
Tributaries 40
Relationship of Present Quality to 40
"Objective" Classification
Effluents to the South Platte River and Tributaries 41
Future Water Quality Surveillance Program 41
Appendices: Surface Water Quality Data for the 67
South Platte River Basin
- ii -
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LIST OF TABLES
Table No. Title Page
1 Quantitative Water Quality Standards for 4
South Platte River in Colorado
2 Quantitative Water Quality Standards for 5
Major Tributaries to the South Platte River in Colorado
3 Water Quality Monitoring Stations - 6 & 7
South Platte River Basin
4 Total Coliform Data - Analysis of Extremes 12
5 Fecal Coliform Data - Analysis of Extremes 17
6 Dissolved Oxygen Data - Analysis of Extremes. 21
7A Major Classifications of Point-Source 42
Discharges to the Sou.th Platte River
7B Discharges of Record in "the South Platte 43-63
River Basin as of 1973
7C Summary of Major Industrial Discharges 64
in the South Platte River Basin as of 1973
8 Proposed Water Quality Surveillance Stations 66
for the South Platte River Basin in Colorado
- iii -
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LIST OF FIGURES
Figure No. Title Page
1 South Platte River System Showing Selected Water in rear pocket
: Quality Surveillance Stations in Colorado
2 Location of Primary Sampling Sites 10
Utilized to Evaluate Total Coliform Concentrations
in the South Platte River Basin
3 Current Concentrations of Total 11
Coliform Bacteria for South Platte River Basin
4 Location of Primary Sampling Sites 14
Utilized to Evaluate Fecal Coliform Concentrations
in the South Platte River Basin
5 Current Concentrations of Fecal 15
Coliform Bacteria for South Platte River Basin
6 Locations of Primary Sampling Sites 19
Utilized to Evaluate Dissolved Oxygen Concentrations
in the South Platte River Basin
7 Current Concentrations of Dissolved 20
Oxygen for South Platte River Basin
8 Location of Primary Sampling Sites 23
Utilized to Evaluate Biochemical Oxygen Demand
in the South Platte River Basin
9 Current Concentrations of;Five-Day 24
Biochemical Oxygen Demand for South Platte River Basin
10 Location of Primary Sampling Sites Utilized 26
to Evaluate Temperature and pH in the South Platte
River Basin
11 Current Concentrations of Hydrogen Ion 27
for South Platte River Basin
12 Current Range in Temperature for 29
South Platte River Basin
13 Current Concentrations of Nutrients 30
for South Platte River
- iv -
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LIST OF FIGURES (continued)
Figure No. Title
14 Comparison of Low versus High Frequency 33
Measurement of Dissolved Oxygen Concentrations -
19th Street Station
15 Comparison of Low versus High Frequency 34
Measurement of Fecal Coliform Bacteria Concentrations -
19th Street Station
16 Comparison of Low versus High Frequency 35
Measurement of Five-Day Biochemical Oxygen Demand
Concentrations - 19th Street Station
17 Comparison of Semi-Monthly versus Hourly 36
Measurements of Dissolved Oxygen Concentrations -
19th Street Station
18' Comparison of Semi-Monthly versus Hourly 37
Measurement of Fecal Coliform Bacteria
Concentrations - 19th Street Station
19 Comparison of Semi-Monthly versus Hourly 38
Measurements of Five-Day Biochemical Oxygen
Demand Concentrations - 19th Street Station
- v -
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APPENDICES
Surface Water Quality Data
For The South Platte River Basin
Page
A-l Computer Plots of Total Coliform Concentrations 69
versus Time at Long Term Water Quality Monitoring
Stations in the South Platte River Basin
A-2 Computer Plots of Fecal Coliform Concentrations 76
versus Time at Long Term Water Quality Monitoring
Stations in the South Platte River Basin
A-3 Computer Plots of Dissolved Oxygen Concentrations 83
versus Time at Long Term Water Quality Monitoring
Stations in the South Platte River Basin
A-4 Computer Plots of Five-Day Biochemical Oxygen 90
Demand Concentrations versus Time at Long Term
• Water Quality Stations in the South Platte River Basin
A-5 Computer Plots of Hydrogen Ion Concentrations 97
(pH) versus Time at Long Term Water Quality Monitoring
Stations in the South Platte River Basin
A-6 Computer Plots of Temperature versus Time 104
at Long Term Water Quality Monitoring Stations in the
South Platte River Basin
A-7 Computer Plots of Nutrient Concentrations Ill
versus Time at Long Term Water Quality Monitoring
Stations in the Main Stem South Platte River
- vi -
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INTRODUCTION AND PURPOSE
In the Region VIII Accomplishment Plan for the South Platte River -
Denver Metro area, the commitment was made to the preparation of a compre-
hensive report describing the quality of waters in the South Platte River
Basin in;Colorado. =* This report draws upon an extensive data base in an
attempt to provide a reasonably quantitative description of water quality
in the main stem of the South Platte and its major tributaries (Bear Creek,
Cherry Creek, Clear Creek, St. Vrain Creek, the Big Thompson River, and the
Cache La Poudre River). The description of water quality is termed "reasonably
quantitative" since the methods of calculating averages and means were not
statistically strict. The primary analysis effort has been directed toward
those parameters that are controlled by present and proposed water quality
standards; namely, coliform bacteria, dissolved oxygen, pH, and temperature.
Also included in the analysis were BOD concentrations and nutrients in the
form of phosphate and nitrogen compounds.
The specific objectives of this report are:
1. To place the water quality data pertinent to the Regional
Accomplishment Plan for the South Platte River Basin in one
summary report.
2. To evaluate the existing data and to identify any stream
areas for which inadequate data were found.
3. To recommend a sampling program that will facilitate the
measurement of subsequent changes in water quality in the
South Platte River Basin.
The "Regional Accomplishment Plan for the South Platte River Basin"
proposed, as an objective under "Water Quality," the improvement of the
quality of the South Platte River to permit contact recreational use (a
classification presently termed "83") from the headwaters of the South Platte
to somewhere in the vicinity of Englewood, Colorado (near River Kilometer
(RK) 524). The Accomplishment Plan also proposed the objective of improving
the waters from Exposition Avenue (RK 518.4) to the Colorado-Nebraska State
Line. The exact locations of changes in the proposed standards ("objective"
classifications) have not been specified. As will be explained later, some
arbitrary decisions as to classification changes were made to facilitate the
data analysis. The EPA objectives are stated, in the Plan, as follows:
If "Accomplishment Plan Region VIII South Platte River Basin Denver Area,"
Environmental Protection Agency, Rocky Mountain Prairie Region, January 1972.
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SOUTH PLATTE RIVER BASIN
BROAD OBJECTIVES
2.1 Water Quality
; To improve quality of the South Platte River to permit
beneficial uses hot now provided as follows:
a. Water quality upstream from Denver will be improved
to permit recreation, including swimming, and drinking
water supply through reduction of fecal coliform levels.
Existing fecal coliform levels will be reduced by
approximately 50% to the compliance level of 100 per
100 ML by December 31, 1973.
b. Quality of Water in the Denver area and downstream to
the Colorado-Nebraska State line will be improved to
permit drinking water supply and warm water fisheries
through reduction of fecal coliform and through an
increase in the dissolved oxygen level. Existing fecal
coliform levels in excess of 10,000 per 100 ML will be
reduced by 30% below Greeley, Colorado by December 31,
1972. Fecal coliform levels in the entire reach in and
below Denver will be brought to the compliance level of
1,000 per 100 ML by December 31, 1976. Dissolved oxygen
compliance level of 5.0 milligrams per liter will be met
in this reach by December 31, 1976 through a reduction of
40,000 pounds of biochemical oxygen demand per day by the
end of 1976.
Thus the analysis incorporated in this report is focused on fecal
coliform bacteria concentrations, dissolved oxygen concentrations, and
biochemical oxygen demand data since these parameters are utilized to
express objectives in the Accomplishment Plan.
CLASSIFICATIONS OF WATERS OF THE SOUTH PLATTE RIVER BASIN IN COLORADO
CURRENT AND "OBJECTIVE"
Current stream classifications in Colorado protect the South Platte
River from its source to Exposition avenue (RK 518.4) for municipal water
supplies, cold-water fishery, industrial, and irrigation uses. From
Exposition Avenue downstream to York Street (RK 518.4 to RK 504.4) the
classification provides for a warm-water fishery plus industrial and
irrigation uses. From York Street to the Colorado-Nebraska State Line
(RK 504.4 to RK 134.7), the classification provides for industrial and
irrigation uses. The quantitative limits coinciding with these classifi-
cations are presented in Table 1.
- 2 -
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Table 1 also presents the "objective classifications" and their
quantitative limits as they have been derived and applied to the South
Platte River. Table 2 presents these classifications for the major
tributaries to the South Platte River. The "objective classification"
are those standards that are proposed for the River i.e., classification
objectives. The points of "objective" classification change were selected
to coincide with present stream locations of classification change. These
"objective classifications" and the reach designations have evolved from
the "Accomplishment Plan" as this Plan is affected by the Federal Water
Pollution Control Act Amendments of 1972.
Both the current and "objective" classifications have been used as
a basis for comparisons in the ensuing presentation of water quality data.
It must be noted that the selection of "objective" classifications, though
discussed with others, was primarily an arbitrary process conducted by
the authors and should be considered only as such and, therefore, subject
to further discussion and change.
WATER QUALITY DATA FOR SOUTH PLATTE RIVER BASIN
Introduction - Stations Examined
A large number of locations have been occupied within the South Platte
River Basin for the purpose of water quality determinations. A total of
twenty-one long-term water quality monitoring stations were selected as the
basis for this report. These stations are described in Table 3 and their
location shown in Figure 1 (in rear pocket). Table 3 also lists the water
quality parameters measured at each station. This report treats only those
water quality parameters considered critical in terms of the goals for
improvement of the South Platte River.
The following sections present the existing water quality data in a
parameter-by-parameter fashion, and, within the framework of each parameter,
in an upstream to downstream order.
Method of Analysis of Data
The data in existance for the South Platte River Basin have been
analyzed in a semi-quantitative fashion since the use of thoroughly quanti-
tative analytical methods would require resources that are not presently
available. It was observed in the early stages of the data analysis that
simple concentration averages over periods of record did not always present
a true picture of current or even historical water quality at a particular
sampling location. Therefore, a more intensive investigation of all avail-
able individual data points were undertaken to check the occurrence of
seasonal or yearly variations. This investigation utilized the STORET
data system to obtain time-versus-concentration plots of selected parameters
at the desired sampling locations (see Appendix A). Note that an upper
bound has been placed upon the data-plots according to the parameter plotted.
As an example, an upper bound of 1X105 total coliform per 100 ml was set.
- 3 -
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TABLE I
Quantitative Water Quality Standards for South Platte Rivet-
in Colorado
Present Classifications ~
Affected Stream Reach
Parameter
Total Col i form (MPN or MF) 1m total coli/lOOml
Fecal Coliforml/ (MPN or MF) Ira fecal coli/lOOml
DO (mg/1)
pH (S.U.) Standard Units
Temperature (°F)
TDS (mg/1)
Source to Enolewood to
Englewood Exposition
RK 523.0 RK 518.4
B1 , C, D1 BI , C, D,
Mo Standard No Standard
1000/2000 (10:;) 1000/2000 (IDS)
6 6
6.5 - 8.5 6.5 - 8.5
70^ 70^
TWMM - THMM
Exposition St.
to York St.
RK 322.1
B2, C, D)
No Standard
1000/2000 (10")
5
6.5 - 8.5
90S/
TWMM
York St. to
Nebraska St. Line
RK 134.7
C, D, 2/
No Standard
No Standard
3
5.0 - 9.0
90^
TUMM
Parameter
Total Colifornr- (MP!I or HF) gm total coli/lOOml
Fecal Coliform-^ (MPtl or MF) gm fecal coli/lOOml
DO (mg/1)
pH (S.U.)
Temperature (°F)
Turbidity
"Objective" Classifications
Affected Stn
Source to
Englewood
RK 523.0
A, B1
Body Contact
Cold Hater Fishery
1000
200/400 (10~)
6/7 (spawn)
6.5 - 8.3
4/
58 (spawn)/65 ~
10 JTU
Secchi disk visible
to 1 meter
2am Reach
tnglewood to
Exposition
RK 518.4
B, , PUS -1
Cold Hater Fishery
10,000
1000/2000 (10")
6/7 (spawn)
6.0 - 9.0
4/
58 (spawn)/65 -
10 JTU
txpositlon to
State Line
RK 134.7
B2, PUS ^
Warm Hater Fishery
10,000
1000/2000 (10. )
5
6.0 - 9.0
90 -'
50 JTU
V Present classifications are based upon Colorado Water Quality Standards dated September 1, 1971
2/ Letter Designation
3/ (1m) log mean, (10'") more than 10" of samples collected in 30 day period
4/ i2°F change from ancient stream temperature
5/ i5°F change from ambient stream temperature
6/ (PWS) Public Water Supply
U (gm) geometric mean = log mean
8/ Time Weighted Monthly Mean (TWMM)
- 4 -
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TABLE 2
Quantitative Water Quality Standards for Major Tributaries
to the South Platte River in Colorado
Present Classifications -'
4/
Stream Letter Designation lm total coli/lOOml im fpcal coli/lOOml
Bear Creek to A, B, , D,
Morrison
Bear Creek
Morrison to B,, D,
S. Platte
Cherry Creek B2, B,
Reservoi r
Cherry Creek Res. none
to S. Platte
Clear Creek-Source to A, B , C, D
Farmers Highline
' Canal
cn
Clear Creek-Farmers A, C, D.
1 Highline Canal to
S. Platte
St. Vrain Creek C, D
Lyons to S. Platte J
Boulder Creek B2, C, Dj
Boulder Canyon to
S. Platte
Big Thompson River
Loveland WTP to S. Platte C, D,
Cache La Poudre R. B2, C, D-|
Greeley WTP
Diversion to 2nd Ave.
Greeley
Cache La Poudre R. C, D,
2nd Ave. Greeley
to S. Platte
no std.
no std.
^ 1000 m.a. —
no std.
no std.
no std.
no std.
no std.
no std.
no std.
no std.
*1000/
2000 (10%)
< 1000/
2000 (10%)
f 100
no std.
< 1000/
2000 (10%)
£ 1000/
2000 (10%)
no std.
.f 1000/
2000 (10%)
no std.
<• 1000/
2000 (10%)
no std.
no oH TDS Temperature
(mg/1) (su) (ma/1) (°F)
}6 6.5 ^ 500 £70
8.5
•j i
f 5 6.5 TWMM -' * 90
8.5
^ 5 6.5 no std. S 90
no std. no std. no std. no std.
26 6.5 500 470
8.5
?4 6.0 500 <90
9.0
-> 3 5.0 TWMM t 90
9.0
1 5 6.5 TWMM i 90
8.5
> 3 5.0 TWMM <90
9.0
? 5 6.5 TWMM < 90
8.5
-> 3 5.0 TWMM 590
9.0
\J Log mean (lm)
2/ Monthly average for 5 consecutive samples (m.a.)
3/ Time Weighted Monthly Mean (TWMM)
4_/ Present classifications are based upon Colorado Water Quality Standards dated September 1,
1971
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TABLE 3
Water Quality Monitoring Stations - South Platte River Basin
(Utilized in this Report)
Location
South Platte River
South Platte
South Platte River
Highway 470
South Platte River
Bowles Avenue
Bear Creek
Jeff-Arap. County Line
South Platte River
1 Dartmouth Avenue
CT>
1
South Platte River
Alameda Avenue
Cherry Creek
at Mouth
\ South Platte River
19th Street
\South Platte River
Franklin Street
Clear Creek upstream
from Golden
Clear Creek
near Mouth
River1'
Kilometers
564.5
539.0
530.7
525.3/6.8
524.1
523.0
518.4
517.4
511.3/0.2
510.6
505.3
504.4
500.7/28.8
500.7/0.5
River1)
Miles
350.8
334.9
329.8
326.4/4.
325.7
325.
322.1
321.5
317. 7/
0.1
317.3
314.0
313.4
311. 1/
17.9
311.1/0
Primary Parameters
Period of Fecal Total
Record Col i form Col i form Do BOD Temp
11/68-10/72 X X X X X
12/68-9/72 X X X X X
12/67-12/72 X X X X X
2 1/68-10/72 X X X X X
10/66-12/72 X X X X X
Standards change from A, Bi, C, D-| to Bi , C, D,
Standards change from Bi , C, Di to B->, C, D-,
•' 1*1 L. * 1
10/66-12/72 X X X X X
10/66-12/72 X X X X X
10/66-12/72 X X X X X
10/66-12/72 x X X X X
Standards change from 82, C, Dj to C, D-|
5/68-10/72 X X X X X
.3 1/68-11/72 X X X X X
Sampling
pH T-P04 NO.-j-N NH3N Agency
XX XX Colo. St.
Health Dep.
XX XX Colo. St.
Health Dep.
X - - - Denver Co.
Health Dep.
XX XX Colo. St.
Health Dep.
X - - Denver Co.
Health Dep.
X - - - Denver Co.
Health Dep.
X - - - Denver Co.
Health Dep.
X - - Denver Co.
Health Dep.
X - - Denver Co.
Health Dep.
XX XX Colo. St.
Health Dep.
XX XX Colo. St.
Agency
Station No.
000025
000024
1513
000036
1091
0699
0346
0305
0001
000035
000034
Health Dep.
1) Measured from mouth of South Platte River at Colorado-Nebraska State Line
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TABLE 3
Water Quality Monitoring Stations - South Platte River Basin
(Utilized in this Report)
Location
South Platte River
at Henderson
St. Vrain Creek
Downstream from Longmont
St. Vrain Creek
Near Mouth
Boulder Creek
Boulder-Weld County Line
Big Thompson River
Near Mouth
Cache La Poudre upstream
from Ft. Collins
Cach La Poudre River
Near Greeley
River '
Kilometers
485.5
434.5/27.7
434.5/2.1
434.5/28.0
11.3
419.1/1.4
400.7/90.6
400.7/4.7
River1)
Miles
301.7
270. O/
17.2
270. O/
1.3
270. O/
17.4/7.0
260. 4/
0.9
249. O/
56.3
249. O/
Primary Parameters
Period of
Record
1/68-11/72
4/69-10/72
1/68-11/72
4/68-10/72
1/68-11/72
1/68-10/72
1/68-11/72
Fecal
Coliform
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Total
Col i form Do
X X
X X
X X
X X
X X
X X
X X
Sampling Agency
BOD Temp pH T-P04 N03-N NH3N Agency Station No.
X X X X XX Colo. St. 000023
Health Dep.
X X X X XX " 000031
X X X X XX " 000029
X X X X XX " 000033
X X X X XX " 000028
X X X X XX " 000026
X X X X XX " 000027
2.9
South Platte River
Near Kersey
South Platte River
At Balzac
South Platte River
Near Julesburg
396.7
280.0
140.0
246.5
174.0
87.0
1/68-11/72 X
1/68-11/72 X
1/68-8/72 X
X X X X X XX
X X X X X XX
X X X X X XX
000022
000021
000020
1) Measured from Mouth of South Platte River at Colorado-Nebraska State Line
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Thus, high values such as two of about 1.7 and 1.3X10^ total coliform per
100 ml measured in 1966 and 1967 at the 19th Street bridge (RK 510.6) were
not plotted. Similarly, high concentrations of coliform bacteria measured
in 1966 for South Platte River samples at the Franklin Street Station are
not shown since all values measured in 1966 exceeded 1X10^ coliform per 100
ml. If no upper bound had been set and these high concentrations had been
included1 in the computer-plots, then the resulting line graph would have
been skewed upward so far tfiat the lower data points representing much
Vower concentrations of coliforms (such as those near the concentration
limit of 1000 total coliforms per 100 ml) would have been compressed and
barely distinguishable on the bottom of the graph. The upper bound was
also used to eliminate obviously incorrect (too high) values such as a
D.O. measurement of 50 mg/1 on 4 Jul 70 at the 19th Street Bridge Station.
No attempt was made to provide accurate geometric or log means of
all the historic data for total and fecal coliforms. Standards for these
parameters are based upon the collection of more than a single sample once
each month or two week period, and the majority of the data presented herein
was collected only monthly or biweekly. As a result, the calculation of
daily or monthly means using the historic data is statistically inaccurate
and the historic data are inadequate for specific comparison with the
standards.
In contrast, the values plotted as median values on the summary plots
(Figures 3, 5, 7, 9, 11, and 12) are either arithmetic means or approximate
median values for the historic data for all parameters. The use of mean
or median values was determined by the degree of variability of the individual
data points. Means were used for normal distributions of data and medians
were used for assymetrical distributions of data. The range of values included
within the "standard deviation" - type limits used in the summary graphs
takes into account all but the most extreme values reported for that period
of record which appears to best describe the "current" quality of the South
Platte River. Thus, if an improvement over time is indicated, the summary
graph shows only the range of concentrations for the recent past as opposed
to the longer historic period of record.
Certain of the data presentation graphs include the results of water
quality measurements made by the EPA National Field Investigations Center-
Denver during 1971.2' In some cases these 1971 "special survey" data were
collected at the same locations as are the long-term data. In cases of
differing locations, the river mileage of the 1971 "special survey" location
is denoted,
It should also be noted that no attempt was made to resolve differences
between the "Most Probable Number" (MPN) and "Membrane Filter" (MF) methods
of coliform determination. All coliform data were considered equivalent in
the summary graphs. No correlation between the results of the two methods
has been determined.
|7"Report on Effects of Waste Discharges on Water Quality of the South
Platte River-Denver Metropoliton Area" & "Report on Effects of Waste Discharges
on Water Quality of the Cache La Poudre & S. Platte Rivers-Greeley Area."
Both reports by the EPA National Field Investigations Center-Denver & the
EPA Region VIII Office, Denver, Colorado, June, 1972.
- 8 -
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The graphical presentation was selected to facilitate reading and
comprehension.
In brief summary, the Figures should provide a reference for future
measurements. If, for example, BODs data collected in 1973 show a mean
concentration lower than that portrayed in Figure 9, we should be able to
conclude that the quality of the South Platte is, in fact, improved.
Similarly, if all the BODij measurements for 1973 fall well below the upper
bound of the range shown in Figure 9, the water quality of the South Platte
should be improving. Of course exceptions to such general conclusions can
be developed.
If such comparisons are attempted in the future, one must consider
that infrequent (weekly, monthly) measurements of water quality at a
long-term monitoring station do not necessarily reflect short term, yet
lethal, impacts on the surface water system. Such short term increases
in pollutants may, in fact, prevent attainment of desired stream classi-
fications. With the exception of some recent measurements made in the urban
area of the South Platte River (these data are.not included here), the
historic data have been derived from an infrequent measurement schedule.
Coliform Bacteria Measurements
Total Coliform Bacteria
Sampling locations utilized for examination of Total Coliform Bacteria
are shown in Figure 2. An analysis of samples collected at these locations
reveals that the South Platte River contains relatively high concentrations
(in excess of 1X106 organisms per 100 ml) of total coliform bacteria as it
passes through the metropolitan area (Figure 3). The river is considered to
have undergone significant deterioration by the time it passes Bowles Avenue
(RK 530.7) and to reach a peak in coliform concentration at Franklin Street
(RK 505.3). The deterioration is evidenced by an increase in coliform con-
centrations from about 100 to about 5X105 organisms per 100 ml. The River
never fully recovers to upstream concentrations while flowing on through
Colorado. Further, significant variations (100-fold) in concentrations have
been measured at all locations downstream of, and including, Franklin Street
(RK 505.3). No total coliform standards presently apply to the South Platte
River. Assuming that the objective standard would be 1000 organsims per 100
ml upstream of Exposition Avenue (RK 518.4 to the headwaters) and 10,000
organisms per 100 ml downstream of Exposition Avenue (RK 518.4 to RK 134.7),
a high percentage of potential violations of standards was suggested by the
data review. Data shown in Table 4 summarize the possible violations of total
coliform bacteria limits in terms of the recent (1972) data, and the last 3
years of data (1970-1972). This summary suggests a recent (1972) deterioration
of the South Platte River in terms of total coliform bacteria carried through
the metropolitan area (RK 517.4 to RK 505.3). Conversely, some improvement
in quality downstream of the metropolitan area was suggested by the decrease
in total coliform bacteria carried in the South Platte River from its junction
with Clear Creek (RK 500.7) downstream to the State Line (RK 134.7).
The results of examination of the time-plots (Appendix A-l) for each
station suggest that the trend since 1966 has been toward a ten-fold, or order
- 9 -
-------
KEY
Fort
Collins
Boulder
Sampling Site on
Main Stem of River
Sampling Site on
Tributary to River
FIGURE 2 LOCATION OF PRIMARY SAMPLING SITES
UTILIZED TO EVALUATE TOTAL COLIFORM CONCENTRA-
TIONS IN THE SOUTH PLATTE RIVER BASIN
-------
$00,000
100,000
50,000
10,000
v
Q-
E
O
r 5,000
1,000
500
FIGURE 3
Current Concentration of Total Coliform Bacteria (Median and Range) For South Platte River Basin In Colorado
Based On Selected Data
100
Objective Standard
Note: There is no present standard
LEGEND
Main Stem Sampling Site
Tributary Sampling Site
550
500
^00 350 300
South Platte River Kilometers
250
200
150
-------
TABLE 4
Total Coliform Bacteria - Analysis of Extremes
Objective Percentage of single measurements
Standard exceeding stated objective standard
Station location
South Platte
1-470
Bowles
Bear Creek
Dartmouth
Alameda
Cherry Creek
19th Street
Franklin
Clear Creek
Henderson
St. Vrain Creek
Big Thompson River
Cache La Poudre River
Kersey
Balzac
Julesburg
(log mean/100 ml)
1000/2000
1000/2000
1000/2000
10000
10000
10000
10000
10000
10000
10000
10000
10000
10000
10000
10000
10000
10000
1970-1972
20
14
9
14
16
15
36
33
56
72
74
71
75
81
56
29
43
1972
0
0
5
17
14
23
36
38
95
40
50
71
71
57
43
0
0
- 12 -
-------
of magnitude, decrease in total coliform bacteria concentrations in the
South Platte River. The derivation of this trend is strongly based on the
very high coliform bacteria concentrations measured in 1966 by the City and
County of Denver Health Department. Review of the data without these 1966
values would not be as optimistic toward long-term improvement since the
concentrations appear to have remained about the same since 1968 and have
increased with time through the downstream area as discussed previously in
connection with Table 4.
Data collected in the latter half of 1971 by the EPA National Field
Investigations Center-DenverfV and represented in the graphs in Appendix
A-l by solid vertical lines show higher concentrations by an average factor
of about 5, at certain locations on the South Platte River (Bowles Avenue,
Kersey, Julesburg) and on certain tributaries than are suggested by the
long-term data. On the other hand, field investigations by the Regional
EPA office!/ during mid-1972 on the upper South Platte River revealed approxi-
mately the same mean total coliform value (425 per 100 ml, average of 17
measurements) at Bowles Avenue as is shown by the long-term data. The
factors influencing such comparisons are too numerous to describe here, but
basically they relate to the size of the sample (number of samples and period
of time over which the sampling occurred).
Fecal Coliform Bacteria
Sampling locations utilized for analysis of concentrations of fecal coli-
form bacteria are shown in Figure 4. Starting at Bowles Avenue (RK 530.7)
and progressing downstream through the Denver metropolitan area, the South
Platte River undergoes significant deterioration in terms of an increase in
the fecal coliform concentrations (Figure 5). Upstream concentrations on the
order of "<100" organisms per 100 ml increase to about 5000 organisms per 100
ml at Franklin Street (RK 505.3). With the additional contribution of fecal
coliforms from the Big Thompson and Cache La Poudre watersheds, the River
never recovers while flowing through Colorado. In a fashion similar to that
for total coliform, the concentration of fecal coliform bacteria peaks at
Franklin Street (RK 505.3) to concentrations as high as 150,000 organisms
per 100 ml.
Fecal coliform standards presently exist for the South Platte River
(Table 1) from the headwaters to the York Street bridge (RK 504.4). The
standard reads as follows:
"Bacteria: Wastes or substances from controllable sources shall
not be discharged into these waters in amounts which will cause
the number of organisms of the fecal coliform group, as determined
by either multiple tube fermentation or membrane filter techniques,
to exceed a log mean of 1000 per 100 ml or exceed 2000 per ml in
more than 10% of the samples collected in any 30-day period."
3/ Bacteriological Investigations of the Upper South Platte River Basin, May,
July, and September, 1972," Rpt #S&A-TSB-6, Technical Support Branch,
Surveillance & Analysis Division, Environmental Protection Agency, Region
VIII, Denver, Colorado, December, 1972.
- 13 -
-------
Sampling Site on
Main Stem of River
Sampling Site on
Tributary to River
FIGURE U LOCATION OF PRIMARY SAMPLING SITES
UTILIZED TO EVALUATE FECAL COLIFORM CONCEN
TRATIONS IN THE SOUTH PLATTE RIVER BASIN
-------
1,000,000 •
$00,000
FIGURE 5.
Current Concentrations of Fecal Coliform Bacteria For South Platte River Basin in Colorado
Based on Selected Data
100,000 -
50,000 •
LEGEND
Main Stem Sampling Site
Tributary Sampling Site
Oi
I
10,000 -
5,000
KOOO
200
100
1(00 350 300
South Platte River Kilometers
250
200
150
-------
As discussed in an earlier section, the long-term data are grab samples
collected at a relatively low frequency and cannot, therefore, generally be
used to determine with certainty whether the maximum of 2000 fecal coliform
per 100 ml has been exceeded over sufficiently long enough period to stand
as a violation. This data can only be used as a general indication of the
presence or absence of violations.
Based on such a use of the long-term data* it appears that the present
water quality standards are exceeded at one South Platte main stem location
i.e., Franklin Street (RK 505.3). If the present standard were extended
downstream (as proposed by the objective standard), three additional locations
would have excessively high fecal coliform concentrations-Henderson (RK 485.5),
Kersey (RK 396.7) and Julesburg (RK 140.0).
The "objective" standards have been considered to be log or geometric
means of 200 fecal coliforms per 100 ml from the source to Exposition Avenue
(RK 518.4) and 1000 fecal coliform per 100 ml from Exposition Avenue to the
State Line (RK 518.4 to RK 134.7)1'• Such standards are to be judged against
the measurement of not less than five water samples collected in a 24-hour
period. Maximums of 400/100 ml and 2000/100 ml for 10% of samples during a
30-day period are also proposed. Complicating the analysis is the problem
that the 200/100 ml limit may be reduced to 100/100 ml in Colorado.
Indications are that fecal coliform concentrations will have to be de-
creased throughout the South Platte Basin to meet the "objective" standards.
Estimated median values at 1-470 and Bowles Avenue on the South Platte River
(RK 539 and RK 530.7, respectively) are equal to the 200/100 ml standard.
Estimated mean values at Franklin Street, Henderson, Kersey, and Julesburg
on the South Platte River are high by a factor of 3 in comparison with the
"objective" standards. Excursions of fecal coliform concentrations over the
objective standards are sufficiently frequent at most stations to suggest
that reductions in the concentrations of fecal coliform bacteria must be
accomplished throughout the river system. Table 5 summarizes the frequency of
occurrence of fecal coliform concentrations which exceeded the present standards
or which would exceed the objective standards. Table 5 portrays a probable
long-term (since 1970) improvement in the quality of the South Platte River
in the area downstream of Denver (Kersey, Balzac, Julesburg) by virtue of the
observed decrease in percentage of potential violations in that part of the
downstream reach. The quality of the downstream tributaries appears to have
neither improved nor worsened with respect to fecal coliform concentrations
since 1970. However, it appears that the quality has decreased in the metro-
politan area over the same period. In fact, the data collected at the Franklin
Street location suggest serious deterioration in quality since 1970 (measured
in terms of fecal coliform bacteria) since mean concentrations at this station
have increased from 500 to 2000 to 5700 (organisms per 100 ml) from 1970 to
1972. In addition, there have been sporadic occurrences of very high (^2X105
4/A more restrictive fecal coliform limit of 100/100 ml may be appropriate
for the "primary contact" waters in the upstream reach.
- 16 -
-------
TABLE 5
Fecal Coliform Data - Analysis of Extremes
Objective Percentage of single measurements
Standard exceeding stated objective standard
Station location
South Platte
1-470
Bowles
Bear Creek
Dartmouth
Alameda
Cherry Creek
19th Street
Franklin
Clear Creek
Henderson
St. Vrain Creek
Big Thompson River
Cache La Poudre River
Kersey
Balzac
Julesburg
(log mean/100 ml)
200
200
200
1000
1000
1000
1000
. 1000
1000
1000
1000
1000
1000
1000
1000
1000
1000
1970-1972
5
32
13
19
16
13
14
23
53
44
83
71
90
95
68
33
52
1972
0
. 33
0
0
10
23
9
33
77
0
100
71
86
100
43
20
40
- 17 -
-------
counts/100 ml) fecal coliform bacteria concentrations at a few sampling
locations (Franklin Street and Henderson are the most notable locations).
These values are not accurately reflected in the graph on page 78 in Appendix
A-2 because nearly 70% of the reported values (for 1972) exceeded the set
upper limit of the graph of 104 fecal coliforms per 100 ml and could not be
depicted.
Dissolved Oxygen Measurements
Sampling locations utilized for analysis of Dissolved Oxygen are shown
in Figure 6. Review of the long-term trends in concentrations of dissolved
oxygen (DO) in the South Platte River Basin has proven to be a challenge.
As may be construed from the station-by-station plots of DO measurements
(Appendix A-3) an irregularly cyclic variation has been identified for all
metropolitan sampling locations. The cyclic variations cannot be related
either to the time of year or to mean annual flows. The variations in DO
concentrations from 1967 through 1972 appear somewhat similar to a cross-
section view of a saucer (V^_^y ) with major rises on either side (1967 and
1972) minor increases toward the middle (1969 and 1970). .Unfortunately for
the quality of the River, relatively low values of DO (on the order of 4 mg/1;,
see Figure 17) were measured during 1972 and a possible trend toward improve-
ment of water quality (in terms of increased dissolved oxygen) was interrupted.
The DO content of the South Platte River decreases to an average of
about 6 mg/1 through the metropolitan area (see Figure 7) and then generally
increases to about 8 mg/1 downstream of the Henderson sampling station
(RK 485.5). Present stream standards are set at 6 mg/1 from the headwaters
to Exposition Avenue (RK 518.4), 5 mg/1 from Exposition Avenue to York Street
(RK 518.4 to RK 504.4), and 3 mg/1 downstream of York Street to the State Line.
Some problems exist in meeting the current standards since approximately 20
percent of DO measurements made in 1972 at locations upstream of York Street,
but within.the metro area, were below the standards concentration of 5 mg/1.
Especially indicative of problems were the results of DO measurements at
Bowles Avenue (RK 530.7) where the estimated median value for the period of
record (1967-1972) is just equal to the present standard or limit value of
6 mg/1.
Implementation of the objective standards would increase the present
limit concentration of 3 mg/1, which applies downstream of York Street, to
5 mg/1 (with occasional excursions to 4 mg/1 acceptable) but would not change
the upstream limits (see Figure 7). Table 6 summarizes the number of potential
violations of the objective standards based on analysis of the 1970 thru 1972
data. As with other parameters previously discussed, an improvement in the
dissolved oxygen content of the South Platte River throughout the metropolitan
area must be achieved in order to meet the objective standards.
The results of the short-term surveys conducted during the second half
of 1971 were generally in agreement with the long-term data with the exception
of the Henderson location where short-term data showed a violation of present
standards (2.4 mg/1 measured in 1971) while the long-term data have not been
lower than about 3.4 mg/1 since 1968 (see page 85 in Appendix A-3).
- 18 -
-------
KEY
Longmont
Boulder
10
i
Sampling Sites on
Main Stem of River
Sampling Sites on
Tributaries to River
FIGURE 6 LOCATION OF PRIMARY SAMPLING SITES
ITTILIZED TO EVALUATE DISSOLVED OXYGEN CONCEN-
TRATIONS IN THE SOUTH PLATTE RIVER BASIN
-------
FIGURE 7
Current Concentrations of Dissolved Oxygen (Median and Range) For South Platte River Basin in Colorado
Based on Selected Data
15
13
12
11
i 8
TV
1U1
LEGEND
• Main Stem Sampling Site
A Tributary Sampling Site
ObJ ec tive_S tanda rd_
Present Standard
550
500
OO 350 300
South Platte River Kilometers
250
200
150
100
-------
TABLE 6
Dissolved Oxygen Data - Analysis of Extremes
Station location
South Platte
1-470
Bowles
Bear Creek
Dartmouth
Alameda
Cherry Creek
19th Street
Franklin
Clear Creek
Henderson
St. Vrain Creek
Big Thompson River
Cache La Poudre River
Kersey
Balzac
Julesburg
Objective
Standard
(mg/1)
6
6
6
6
6
5
5
5
5
5
5
5
5
5
5
5
5
Percentage of single measurements
exceeding stated objective standard
1970-1972
0
0
40
0
33
26
24
36
0
26
0
14
10
15
0
0
1972
0
0
27
0
19
23
0
14
27
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
-------
Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) Measurements
Sampling locations for the BOD measurements examined in this report
are shown in Figure 8. The Biochemical Oxygen Demand (5-day) or BODs increases
from about 2 mg/1 upstream of Denver to an estimated mean of 15 mg/1 at Franklin
Street (RK 505.3) and then "tails-off" to about 5 mg/1 near the Nebraska state
line (Figure 9). The station-by-station plots (Appendix A-4) show excursions
to more than 10 mg/1 at various main-stem and tributary stations between the
Metropolitan area (Alameda Avenue - RK 517.4) and Kersey (RK 396.7) and these
excursions are especially noted in more recent years. Based on an average flow
at Henderson during 1972 of about 10 cms (350 cfs) and an average BODc concentra-
tion of about 14 mg/1, the average 6005 load has been 12 metric tons per day
(2.6X104 pounds) passing the South Platte River station at Henderson.
More recent BODg measurements (1st quarter of 1973) indicate an increasing
trend in BOD5 load at the Henderson sampling site. Based on an average monthly
flow of 9.2 cms (325 cfs) during the first quarter of 1973, the average BODs
load in the South Platte River at the Henderson sampling site was 21.5 metric
tons per day (4.7X104 Ibs per day). This load is approximately double the
average BODs load measured during 1972.
An analysis of BOD5 data collected during January and February, 1973,
at the South Platte River mainstem and tributary sampling sites upstream and
downstream of the discharge from the Denver Metro Sewage Disposal District
#1 Plant (plus BODs effluent data from the plant) indicated that the increased
BOD§ concentrations at the downstream Henderson sampling station were due pri-
marily to increased organic loads imposed by the sewage treatment plant dis-
charge. If overall improvement of the quality of the South Platte River is
to occur, a distinct improvement in the treatment capability of the Denver
Metro Sewage Disposal Plant must be achieved.
Data .collected at the Julesburg station suggest that the quality of the
South Platte River at this point (RK 140) has improved since 1968 as shown
by a decrease in the 6005 concentration from 11 mg/1 during peak concentration
periods to about 5 mg/1 at peak periods in 1971, 1972, and the first quarter
of 1973. Based on an average flow during 1972 of approximately 6.5 cms (230 cfs)
and an average BOD5 concentration of 2 mg/1 the BODs load averaged about 1.1
metric tons per day (2.5X103 pounds per day) in 1972.
Peak BOD5 concentrations tend to occur during the winter months at
sampling locations downstream of Henderson (downstream of RK 485.5). Similar
peaks in BOD5 concentrations at "metropolitan" stations upstream of Henderson
appear to be inversely related to flow and not influenced by the same industrial
processes common to the lower South Platte River drainage.
No BODs standards are in existence or proposed for the South Platte
River Basin. BODs concentrations have been historically utilized as a con-
venient measure of oxygen-demanding loads introduced by major dischargers to
the South Platte River System. The "Broad Objectives" of the South Platte
Accomplishment Plan have been written in terms of BODs load reductions of
- 22 -
-------
Longmont
Go
I
Boulder
Sampling Sites on
Ma1h Stem of River
Sampling Sites on
Tributaries to River
FIGURE 8 LOCATION OF PRIMARY SAMPLING SITES
UTILIZED TO EVALUATE BIOCHEMICAL OXYGEN DEMAND
IN THE SOUTH PLATTE RIVER BASIN
-------
FIGURE 9
Current Concentrations of 5-day Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOOj-Median and Range) For South Platte River Basin 1n Colorado
Based on Selected Data
>~~
60
55
50
i»5
140
35
30
'
20
15
10
5
n
o
.
•
^
0>
4)
O
£"
0
^
o ^~
"«
o
•
*» +J '
1 IJ
LEGEND
• Main Stem Sampling Site
01
]j A Tributary Sampling Site
iz
u
•' • 3 ?
5 ^
V)
1 I . . .! .
550
500
1*50
*tOO 350 300
South Platte River Kilometers
250
200
150
100
-------
4X104 pounds per day (18 metric tons per day) by 1972 and 9.5X104 pounds per
day (43 metric tons per day) by 1976.
The full impact of BODr load reductions of this size cannot be measured
by the existing long-term water quality surveillance stations since the present
BODg loads at some of these stations are at least an order of magnitude less
than the; proposed reduction. For example, average BOD5 loads in 1972 are
estimated to be 12, 11.1, 2.0, and 1.1 metric tons per day at Henderson, Kersey,
Balzac, and Julesburg, respectively. It is suggested that major reductions
in BOD,- loadings will have to be monitored at or quite near their sources
(municipal treatment plants and sugar beet processing plants).
Hydrogen Ion (pH) Measurements
Sampling locations utilized for analysis of pH measurements are shown
in Figure 10. The acidity/alkalinity (pH) of the South Platte River Basin
is not considered to be a strong function of any municipal or industrial
discharges but rather to be controlled by runoff and recharge to the River
system. As a result of its independence from ''control," p.H, along with
temperature, as determined at the long-term stations, is considered to be
a strong factor in determining appropriate stream classifications and sub-
sequent quantitative standards whenever these classifications are strong
functions of the hydrogen ion content and temperature of the water.
Present standards require adherence to a 6.5 to 8.5 (S.U.) range from
the headwaters of the South Platte River to York Street (RK 504.4). Down-
stream of York Street the range is increased to 5 to 9 (S.U.). The present
standards have not been exceeded on the acid side (<7.0 S.U.) at the long-
term stations and those excursions over the basic side (>7.0 S.U.) might
all be related to periods of rapid snow melt or otherwise rapid runoff
(Figure 11).
The standards objectives would lower the upper bound from 8.5 to 8.3
.(S.U.) in the stream reach providing for body contact recreation (Source
to Englewood - RK 523.0) and would raise the lower bound from 5 (S.U.) in the
lower reaches to 6 (S.U.). No significant problems are envisioned with the
more restrictive bounds except in the cases of Cherry Creek and Clear Creek
where some limitations on selected effluents may be necessary to insure
maintenance of the South Platte and the appropriate tributary classification.
Temperature Measurements
Sampling locations utilized for analysis of temperature measurement
are also shown in Figure 10. Along with the hydrogen ion content (pH), the
temperature range of the South Platte River and its tributaries is not con-
sidered to be a strong function of any point-discharges, at least not as far
as the quality of the river system is represented by data from the long-term
stations. Discharges with the potential to affect the temperature of the
South Platte River are thought to be those associated with three power plants
(Arapahoe, Zuni, and Cherokee) the Martin Marietta facility discharging to
Brush Creek, and, perhaps the Coors facilities, discharging to Clear Creek.
- 25 -
-------
KEY
Fort
Collins
Boulder
ro
CD
Sampling Sites on
Main Stem of River
Sampling Sites on
Tributaries to River
FIGURE- 10 LOCATION OF PRIMARY SAMPLING SITES
UTILIZED TO EVALUATE TEMPERATURE AND pH
IN THE SOUTH PLATTE RIVER BASIN
-------
/JGURE II
Current Concentrations of Hydrogen Ion (pH)(Medfan 6 Range) for South Platte River Basin in Colorado
Based on Selected Cata
10
I
ro
I 7
550
$00
LEGEND
• Main Stem Sampling Site
A Tributary Sampling Site
kOO ISO 300
South Platte River Kilometers
250
200
150
too
-------
The summary graph (Figure 12) shows a slight tendency of the upper bound
(of the temperature range) to rise from about 21° C (70° F) to about 24° C
(75° F) as the River moves through the Denver metropolitan area. At Balzac
(RK 280.0) the temperatures range up to about 29° C(85° F) but this high
value is presumed to be a function of the topography, climate, and amount
of water present in the vicinity of this sampling station.
The present water quality standards for the South Platte River set
an upper temperature limit of 21 C(70° F) upstream of Exposition Avenue
(RK 518.4) and 32° C (90° F) downstream from Exposition Avenue to the State
Line. With the exception of values of about 22° C (72° F) that have been
measured on occasion at Bowles Avenue (RK 530.7) and Dartmouth Avenue
(RK 524.1), no problems have been encountered in meeting these temperature
criteria. Of course the data are insufficient to measure the short-range
rise in temperatures near specific outfalls to determine whether abrupt
changes in temperature are caused by such outfalls. The apparent increase
in temperature from 1970 to 1971 suggested by the station-by-station plots
in Appendix A-6 is thought to be related to the decrease in average annual
flow occurring from 1970 to 1971.
The standards objectives could change only the upper bound on the
coldwater fishery portion of the South Platte (upstream of Exposition Avenue
- RK 518.4) from its present limit of 210 C (70° F) to 14.5° C (58° F)
(suitable for all cold water species). The long-term data indicates that
such a standard may be too strict for the upper reaches of the South Platte
River if the fish species introduced or desired are sensitive to the higher
temperatures likely to occur in the River. It may be appropriate to instead
place an upper bound of 18° C (65° F) (suitable for brown trout) on the upper
reaches.
Nutrient Measurements
A selected amount of nutrient data were reviewed to ascertain the
quality of the main stem of the South Platte River in terms of concentrations
of nitrates (as nitrogen), phosphate (as phosphate), and ammonia (as nitrogen).
Nitrate concentrations showed a tendency to fluctuate somewhat sporadi-
cally throughout the river reach. Concentrations increased almost 15 fold to
about 3 mg/1 (as N) as the river passed through the Denver Metropolitan area
(Figure 13). Near the Nebraska State Line a reduction in nitrate concentra-
tion to about 1.5 mg/1 (as N) was observed. Unusually high concentrations
(3 to 4 times normal) were measured at all stations during mid-1970 (see
Appendix A-7). Even with this significant increase the nitrate concentrations
have remained well below the recommended limit of 10 mg/1 (as N) for drinking
water purposes. This does not negate the fact that the presently measured
nitrate concentrations may be a signficant factor in the production of algae
growths in the South Platte River.
Phosphate concentrations rise from about 0.1 mg/1 (as total P04) measured
upstream from Denver (RK 564.5) to about 7 mg/1 downstream at the Henderson
station (RK 485.5). Concentrations then.gradually decrease to about 0.5 mg/1
(T-P04) as the Nebraska State Line is approached. Concentrations of total
phosphorus above 0.1 mg/1 are generally thought to significantly enhance the
- 28 -
-------
FIGURE 12
Current Range In Temperature for South Platte River Basin In Colorado
Based on Selected Data
. 35 — 95
30 - 85
80
25 _
1 75
"""" 7fi
• / u
» 65
,5- 1 60
° C
£ 55
S "
|-10— 0. 50
4)
3
5 u
O MO
•- 35
0 —
30
25
20
15
10
5
•
•
-
•
•
•
1
j
1
1
1
'
,
[
Present Standard
T
J
LI - A
I 1
. [ ' f
i
•
i i i
•
Objective Standard
LEGEND
u >v
t £
•£ l^
"o. fo.
J |J
E U
v >-
y> '2
c Li
i e
*
?.
O C£.
^ •*- ft)
1) K 1-
0) _* I- C 3
-M o o — i ^
j:OL*.4i >£« U1_TDT3 JZ N JJ
O O ^ ^— OJ 4J-r-(D *" 3
w m o (_> x <-?
ill i 1 i t 1 i i
550 500 <«50 1*00 350 300 250 200 150 100
South Platte River Kilometers
-------
FIGURE 13
Current Concentrations of Nutrients (POi,, NOj, NHj) For South Platte River In Colorado
Based on Selected Data
CO
o
LEGEND
N03-N
NH3-N
563.3
350
300
1*02.3 Kilometers 321.9
South Platte River
250 Miles 200
21*1.'*
Downstream -
150
160.9
100
80.5
50
-------
production of algae in streams and lakes (assuming other necessary growth
factors are available).—/ It is evident that control of phosphorus is
required in the South Platte River in and below the Denver Metro Area if
an excessive growth of nuisance algae is to be prevented since nitrogen
concentrations and temperatures are suitable for algal growth. An upward
trend in phosphate concentrations has been observed at Henderson and Kersey
(RK 485.5 and RK 396.7, respectively) since 1970. The factors which have
produced this increase are not completely identifiable, but they may relate
to the increase in organic waste discharge from the Denver Metro Sewage
Disposal District #1 Plant which was discussed in an earlier section dealing
with BOD5 concentrations in the South Platte River.
Ammonia concentrations also increase appreciably as the South Platte
River passes through Denver (from 0.04 mg/1 to 5.8 mg/1) (as nitrogen) and
then decrease downstream to the State Line (0.1 mg/l)(as N). Significant
peaking in ammonia concentrations has been observed during the winter and
spring seasons. However, in 1972 the ammonia concentrations at Henderson
(RK 485.5) did not drop through the summer to the extent noted in the past.
The normal decrease from winter to summer is from about 12. mg/1 NH3 (as N)
to about 1 mg/1 NH3 (as N) but during the 1972 summer season the NHo con-
centration remained at about 10 mg/1 (as N). Increasing effluent flow
from the Denver Metro Sewage Treatment Plant located at RK 502.4 may have
contributed to the increased NH3 concentrations observed in 1972 at the
Henderson site (RK 485.5).
Concern has been expressed over possible ammonia toxicity in the South
Platte River and the possible need for ammonia removal at the Denver Metro
Plant. Recent research indicates that only the un-ionized fraction (NH3) of
ammonia is toxic to fish, and that the highest concentration of un-ionized
ammonia which apparently will not cause any adverse effects is 0.025 mg/1
NH3 as NH3 (0.0206 mg/1 NH3 as N)6/- The un-ionized fraction of total ammonia
is, in large part, a function of pH and temperature, with the fraction in-
creasing as pH and temperature values increase.
Based on long term average values for pH (8.0) and temperature (highs
near 20°C) at the Henderson sampling site (located approximately 17 kilometers
downstream from the Denver Metro Plant discharge), the concentration of total
ammonia (NH3 + NH+) in the river must not exceed 0.54 mg/1 NH3 as N if the
toxic un-ionized ammonia fraction (NH^) is to remain below the recommended
limit of .0206 mg/1 NH3 as N (variables other than pH and temperature are
considered to be insignificant in this calculation). Since the river contains
an average concentration of approximately 6 mg/1 total NHo as N at this loca-
tion, there clearly exists a great potential for serious impairment of the
warm water fishery in this stream reach. These facts present a strong case
for the adoption by the Denver Metro Sewage Treatment Plant of additional
treatment facilities designed for a high degree of ammonia removal.
5/ Proposed Criteria for Water Quality, Vol. I, U.S. Environmental Protection
Agency, Washington, D.C., uctooer, 1973.
6/ The Proposed Criteria for Hater Quality published by the U.S. EPA Agency,
October, 1973, page 95, states: "The acceptable maximum concentration of
un-ionized ammonia in water is 0.02 mg/1."
- 31 -
-------
Comparison of Data from Short-Term and Long-Term Sampling
To determine if there were significant differences in measurement of
parameters between infrequent, long-term sampling and intensive, short-term
sampling, an examination and comparison of sample results under both conditions
was made at the 19th Street sampling location (RK 510.6). These results are
presented in Figures 14 through 19. In general the figures show that long-
term data (regular semi-monthly sampling by the Denver County Health Dept.)
and short-term data (daily sampling coordinated by the Denver Regional Council
of Governments (DRCOG) study program) are in fairly close agreement throughout
the April-July comparison period for dissolved oxygen (DO) and fecal coliform
parameters. The BOD5 values also agree closely during the latter period of
comparison (June-July), but during the earlier period (April-May) the long-
term data is about 50% less than the short-term data. Note also, in Figure
14, the low concentrations of dissolved oxygen (<4 mg/1) which are frequently
encountered at the 19th Street sampling location.
Comparisons were also made between samples collected at frequent (4 hour)
intervals during the day and samples collected, only once during the same day
at the same location. It was found that significant variations in water
quality (particularly BOD5 concentrations) occurred throughout the day at
the 19th Street sampling site (See Figures 17 through 19). The above results
indicate that the long-term data (derived from semi-monthly grab samples)
employed in this report does not always accurately reflect the existing stream
conditions which would be observed through an intensive daily sampling program.
Adequacy of Data
The data presented and reviewed herein are almost all "long-term data,"
that is, they have been collected infrequently at widely-spaced stations.
As such the data.are moderately adequate. The representativeness of the data
is considered questionable in the following areas:
1. The exact sampling locations are not well-defined and, as a
result, the data are comprised of samples which may have been
collected from different river mileage locations or under
different mixing conditions.
2. The time of day for sample collection has not been consistent.
DO samples may be significantly affected by this variable. (In
some cases, this variation may be desirable).
3. Flow data for the sampling locations are not generally obtained
at the time of sample collection.
4. Methods of measuring coliform bacteria vary from agency to agency.
As discussed earlier, these data are not collected in a manner (fre-
quency or duration) to allow accurate evaluation of the potential to violate
quantitative standards. In general, the weakness lies in the fact that the
length of time that a specific concentration exists is not determined.
- 32 -
-------
10
OJ
OJ
1'
V
O!
I 5
-o
-------
FIGURE 15
5000
2500
o
o
« 1000
§
o
E
o
500
250
Comparison of Low versus High Frequency. Measurement of
Fecal Coliform Bacteria Concentrations
19th Street Station (RK 510.6) South Platte River
LEGEND
• Data From High Frequency (""Daily")
Water Quality Monitoring
(DRCOG Study)
^( Data From Low Frequency ("Semi-Monthly")
Water Quality Monitoring
(Denver County:rHea1th Department)
*
0
April
May
i ii
10 20 30
June
July
i i i i ' i
i»0 50 60 70 80
Days
-. 34 -
-------
CO
en
20
18
16
12
a
2 10
FIGURE 16
Comparison of Low versus High Frequency Measurement of
Five-Day Biochemical Oxygen Demand Concentrations
19th Street Station (RK 510.6) South Platte River
LEGEND
Data From High Frequency (••'"Daily") Water
Quality Monitoring (DRCOG Study)
Data From Low Frequency ("Semi-Monthly")
Water Quality Monitoring
(Denver County Health Department)
April
0
May
i i i
June
July
1 1
10 20 30 kO 50 60 70 80 90
Days
-------
FIGURE 17
Comparison of Semi-Monthly versus Hourly Measurements of
Dissolved Oxygen Concentrations
19th Street Station (RK 510.6) South Platte River
GO
01
c
01
01
"O
o
May 10-11, 1972
LEGEND
O
DRCOG Study Data (—"Hourly")
Denver County Health Department Data (*»"Semi-Month1y")
0
0800
1200
1600 2000
Time, Hours
2400
0^00
-------
FIGURE 18
Comparison of Semi-Monthly versus Hourly Measurement of
Fecal Coliform Bacteria Concentrations
19th Street Station (RK 510.6) South Platte River
11
10
LEGEND
o DRCOG Study Data (—"Hourly")
^^ Denver County Health Department Data
(•'"Semi-Monthly")
c_>
ra
1200
1600 , 2000
Timei Hours
2^00
0<400
- 37 -
-------
FIGURE 19
Co
oo
12
10
_ 8
UN
O
O ,
CD O
k Y
2 I-
0800
Comparison of Semi-Monthly versus Hourly Measurements of
Five-Day Biochemical Oxygen Demand Concentrations
19th Street Station (RK 510.6) South Platte River
^ -c—'
July 11-12, 1972
* DRCOG Study Data (-'"Hourly")
^Denver County Health Department Data
(^"Semi-Monthly")
1200
1600 2000
Time, Hours
0*400
-------
Further, the present sampling network does not adequately identify
sources of pollutants. For example, the network does not define the impact
on water temperature of discharges from three power plants located on the
South Platte River nor from a brewery located on Clear Creek or a manufacturing
facility located on Brush Creek. The network does not facilitate the identi-
fication of contributions of contaminants from minor tributaries such as
Lakewood Gulch and various storm sewers.
In addition, the present sampling network is not designed to quantify
variables such as ground water inflow to the streams, the state of existing
aquatic biota, non-point sources of pollution, or the role of sediment
transport and deposition. Therefore accurate modeling of the entire river
system is not presently feasible.
SUMMARY OF LONG-TERM MEASUREMENTS
Present Concentrations - Main Stem
The main stem of the South Platte River.in Colorado undergoes deteri-
oration as it passes through the Denver Metropolitan Area (RK 539.0 to RK
485.5). In terms of coliform bacteria, the highest concentrations are
normally measured at the Franklin Street sampling location (RK 505.3),
averaging about 550,000 total coliform organisms and 3000 fecal coliform
organisms per 100 ml. Concentrations sporadically rise to as much as 100
times these median values. The dissolved oxygen content of the South Platte
River also decreases from a median upstream value of about 8 mg/1 to a median
value of about 6 mg/1, with fluctuations of 2 mg/1 as the River traverses
the metropolitan area. The 5-day biochemical oxygen demand of the river
increases through the metropolitan area to a median value of about 15 mg/1
with fluctuations in excess of 25 mg/1. Temperature and pH data show only
minor deterioration through the metro-area. Nutrient data (NOo, PO^, NHs;
reflect a deterioration, especially in phosphate and ammonia (to about 7 mg/1
and 6 mg/1, respectively), not only through Denver but also downstream as
far as Kersey, about 100 kilometers downstream of the metropolitan area.
The overall deterioration of the South Platte River is not relegated
to just the reach immediately downstream from the major treatment plants,
but rather occurs throughout the Metro area.
Long-Term Trends - Main Stem
Long-term trends in water quality appear to be associated with a decrease
in coliform bacteria in the River since 1966 complicated by a disturbing upward
trend in concentrations measured in the metropolitan area recently. Dissolved
oxygen concentrations have varied in a cyclic yet unpredictable fashion through-
out the period of record and though there is some sign of decreasing water
quality recently, equally low values of D.O. have occurred in periods of the
past. BOD5 .concentrations have remained about the same at most locations
through the period of record except for the Henderson location which has
shown a doubling in concentration during the first quarter of 1973. BODg
concentrations at several locations within metropolitan Denver have also
shown sporadically high values in the more recent data (1972).
- 39 -
-------
To a certain extent, improvements in the water quality of the South
Platte River that appeared imminent in 1970 (when compared to 1966-1968)
have not completely materialized.
Tributaries
The bacteriological quality of the major tributaries to the South Platte
River improved over the period of record. The dissolved oxygen concentrations
fluctuated in a manner similar to that of the South Platte itself whereas
the 6005 concentrations showed a minor tendency to decrease. Of those tri-
butaries for which data were reviewed, the Cache La Poudre carried the highest
median concentrations of bacteria and BOD5 and the lowest median D.O. con-
centration. Clear Creek, by virtue of sporadic excursions of increasing
bacteria and BOD^ concentrations, also warrants designation as a continuing
deterrent to achievement of high quality water in the South Platte River
Basin.
Relationship of Present Quality to "Obective" Classifications
In order to meet the water quality standards or "objective" classifi-
cations herein proposed for the South Platte River Basin, the following.
changes in present water quality must be achieved:
1. Average total coliform bacteria concentrations must be
reduced by an order of magnitude or more in both the
South Platte River through Denver and in all major tri-
butaries downstream of Cherry Creek.
2. Average fecal coliform bacteria concentrations must be
reduced by a factor of three in both the South Platte
River through Denver and the Big Thompson River and
reduced by a factor of 20 in the Cache La Poudre River.
3. Average dissolved oxygen concentrations must be generally
increased to prevent excursions of long duration below the
"objective" standards of 6 and 5 mg/1. This may require
a 20 percent increase in DO or implementation of methods
to reduce the sizable fluctuations (downward) of disssolved
oxygen.
4. In order to achieve the changes listed above, the BODs
concentrations will have to be reduced.
Since the data herein presented and summarized continue to be collected
infrequently, and since variations in concentrations are functions not only
of controllable discharges but also of the season, stream velocities and
flow quantity, channel configuration, mixing, and precipitation/recharge, it
will not be easy to ascertain whether improvements in water quality are achieved
by just reviewing the long-term data. However, monthly review of long-term
data can provide a rough indicator of permanent changes in water quality. Such
changes must then be proven by quantifying the previously mentioned variables
of season, velocity and flow quantity, channel configuration, mixing, and
duration of concentration.
- 40 -
-------
EFFLUENTS TO THE SOUTH PLATTE RIVER AND TRIBUTARIES
The South Platte River is estimated to receive a total of 17.4 cms
("400 MGD) from industrial and municipal discharges. This amount is comprised
almost equally of discharges from municipal water and waste water treatment
plants and industries (see Table 7A). While the discharge amount is somewhat
low compared to discharges from industrialized areas in the East and Midwest,
the amount estimated as being discharged to the South Platte River system is
approximately equal to the four year average annual flow (1969-1972) near
the State Line at Julesburg (~20 cms or ~700 cfs). Therefore, the discharges
can have a significant impact on the quantity and quality of the South Platte
River.
Table 7B lists the known discharges to the South Platte River System
along with water quality monitoring stations and tributary locations. The
industrial data are derived from applications to EPA for discharge permits.
The vast majority of the industrial discharges.come from 24 facilities,
each having estimated flows equal to or in excess of 0.09 cms (~2.0 MGD)
(see Table 7C). The Metropolitan Denver Waste Water Treatment Plant is
estimated to account for over 50 percent of the flow from the municipal
discharges (5.09 cms or 116 MGD).
It seems reasonable to hypothesize that since water quality degradation
of the South Platte River occurs primarily as increases in coliform bacteria
and organic material, municipal discharges share a large part of the responsi-
bility for the degradation.
FUTURE WATER QUALITY SURVEILLANCE PROGRAM
EPA-Region VIII, proposed a comprehensive water quality surveillance system
for the South Platte River Basin in March of 1973.Z/ The proposed system
included 23 main stem stations and 34 tributary stations. Of the total of
57 stations, 25 were occupied at the time of the March, 1973 report. Recent
decreases in funding have forced an intensive review of all comprehensive
monitoring systems and, therefore, the earlier plan is herein modified and
reduced to its essentials.
It is felt that the major objective of the water quality surveillance
network will be to evaluate ambient water quality against water quality
standards. Detection of "spills" or accidental releases will be the re-
sponsibility of point source monitors as opposed to the surveillance network.
Measurements to define the fate of most point and nonpoint discharges must
be conducted as short term (<1 year) surveys. Mixing relationships at
1J "Water Quality Monitoring Plan in South Platte River Basin, Colorado and
Wyoming," Surveillance Branch, Surveillance and Analysis Division, U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency, Region VIII, March, 1973.
- 41 -
-------
TABLE 7A
Major Classifications of Point-Source Discharges
To The South Platte River Basin
Total Discharges
Facilities MGD . CMS
Water Treatment Plants 9.* 0.40
Waste Water Treatment Plants 184.2 8.09
Industry 203.5 8.93
TOTAL 396.9 17.4
- 42 -
-------
GJ
I
TABLE 7B
Discharges of Record In the South Platte River Basin as of 1973
Discharges to South Platte River - Main Stem
Pertinent Operations &
Name
WQS1) - South Platte Colorado
Kassler Water Treatment Plant
Denver Water Board
Martin Marietta Corp
Deer Creek enters @ 336.5 through gravel pit
Plum Creek enters @ 335.5
WQS - Interstate Highway 470 Bridge
Peter Kiewit & Sons
WQS - Bowles Ave Bridge
Englewood Water Treatment Plant
Littleton Waste Water Treatment Plant
see Bear Creek enters @ 326.4
Public Service Company (Arapahoe Station)
WQS - Dartmouth Ave. Bridge
Englewood Waste Water Treatment Plant
WOS - Alameda Ave. Bridge
Type of Facility
Domestic Water
Mfg. Research
Gravel
Construction
Domestic Wtr.
Sewage
Power Gen; coal
Sewage
Location Average Flow
RM RK MGD CMS
350.8
339
341.1/2.
334.9
330
329.8
328
327.6
328
325.7
325.1
321.5
564.5
545.5 0.17 7.46X10'3
548.9/ 0.55' 24.1 X10'3
3.2
539.0
531.1 0.3 13.2 X10-3
530.7
527.8 0.28 12.3 X1Q-3
527.2 5.2 .228
527.8 1.3 57.1 X10'3
524.1
523.2 8.6 .377
517.4
Pollutants affecting
water quality
(solids)
Sewage, Metal Plating
(solids, BOD5, Temp.)
Into Brush Creek
(solids)
(solids, BOD5)
(sol ids , Temp. )
(BOD5, solids)
WQS = Water Quality Station
-------
TABLE 7B
Discharges of Record In the South Platte River Basin as of 1973
Discharges to South Platte River - Plum Creek (RK 335.5 on South Platte)
Name
Castle Rock Waste Water Treatment Plant
E.I. DuPont Corp.
Location
Type of Facil ity
Sewage
Manufacturing
RM
335.5
335.57
C ->
RK
539.9
539.97
T rt T
Average Flow
MGD
0.2
0.9
CMS
8.78xlO"3
39.5xlO'3
Pertinent Operations &
Pollutants affecting
water quality
(BOD5)
(solids, BOD5)
(Potential NH3, pH)
-------
TABLE 7B
Discharges of Record In South Platte River Basin As Of 1973
Discharges to South Platte River - Bear Creek (RK 326.4 on South Platte)
Pertinent Operations &
Location Average Flow Pollutants affecting
Name Type of Facility RM RK MGD CMS water quality
I
tn
i
Public Service Company Water Treatment
Plant, Evergreen
Public Service Company Old Water
Treatment Plant, Evergreen
Evergreen Waste Water Treatment Sewage
Plant
Public Service Company-Water
Treatment Plant, Kittridge
WQS - Jefferson-Arap. Co. Line
326.4/30
326.4/30
326.4/25
326.4/20
326.4/4.2
525.3/48.3 0.03 1.3xlO~3
525.3/48.3 0.03 1.3xlO"3
525.3/40.2 0.2 8.78xlO~3 (Solids, BOD5, Bacteria)
525.3/32.2 0.003 .13xlO"3
525.3/6.8
-------
TABLE 7B
Discharges of Record in South Platte River Basin as of 1973
Discharges to South Platte River - Lakewood Gulch
Pertinent Operations
Location Average Flow & Pollutants affecting
Name Type of Facility RM RK MGD CMS Water Quality
South Lakewood Waste Sewage 319.7 • 513.2 1.8 .079 (BOD5, solids)
Water Treatment Plant
cr>
-------
TABLE 7B
Discharges of Record In South Platte River Basin as of 1973
Discharges to South Platte River - Main Stem
Name
Type of Facility
Location
RM RK
Average Flow
MGD ' CMS
Water Treatment Plant
see Rocky Mtn. Ditch enters @ 314.38
WQS - Franklin St. Bridge
Pertinent Operations &
Pollutants affecting
Hater Quality
Gates Rubber Co. (Mississippi
Avenue)
Roberts Food
Public Service Company
(Zuni Plant)
Ellis Foods
see Lakewood Gulch
see Cherry Creek enters @
WQS - 19th St. Bridge
City Ice Company
Burlington Northern RR
Safeway Stores
Denver Northside Waste
mfg. rubber products
Power Gen. -gas, oil
coal
Food Processing,
Canning
317.7
Fueling-car washing
Sewage
322.5
322.35
319
318
318
317.3
317
316
316
314.4
519.0
518.8
513.4
511.8
511.8
510.6
510.1
508.5
508.5
506.0
0.8?
1.67
0.072
44.0
0.06
0.4
0.01 est.
0.07
.035
.073
3.16xlO"3
1.93
2.63xlQ-3
17.6xlO-3
.44xlOest_
3.07xlO'3
(BOD,, solids O&G,
Heavy Metals)
(TDS, pH )
Cooling, ion exchange
(BOD5, solids, Temp. )
Cooling Water (Temp.)
(Solids)
Overflow (BOD5\
(Solids)
Storm Sewer collects
Pond Seepage RM 314.5
314.0
505.3
-------
TABLE 78
Discharges of Record In The South Platte River Basin as of 1973
Discharges to South Platte River - Cherry Creek Enters at 317.7 on South Platte
Name
Pertinent Operations &
Location Average Flow Pollutants affecting
Type of Facility RM RK MGD ^ CMS Water Quality
Glendale Sanitation District
Sewage
317.7/5 511.3/8.0 0.3
13.2xlO"3
WQS - at mouth of Cherry Creek
317.7 / 511.3/0.2
0.1
00
I
-------
TABLE 78
Discharges of Record in South Platte River Basin as of 1973
Discharges to South Platte River - Rocky Mountain Ditch enters @ 314.4
Pertinent Operations
Name
GAP
Type of Facility
Manufacturing
RM
314. 38/
Location
RK
4 505. 93/, ,
Average Flow
MGD ' CMS
0.027 l.lSxlO"3
Pollutants affecting
Water Quality
(pH, Solids)
-pi
10
-------
TABLE 7B
Discharges of Record In the South Platte River Basin as of 1973
Discharges to South Platte River - Main Stem
Pertinent Operations &
1
tn
0
i
Name
Denver Rendering
National By-Products
Public Service Co. (Cherokee Station)
Metro Denver Waste Water Treatment Plant (also
discharges to Burlington Ditch)
see Sand Creek enters @ 312.1
; see Clear Creek enters @ 311.1
South Adams Waste Water Treatment Plant
WQS - Henderson - Bridge to Adams Co. Fairgrounds
Stokely Van Camp
Brighton Waste Water Treatment Plant
Great Western Sugar - Brighton
Type of Facil ity
Power Gen. , Coal
Sewage
Sewage
Food Processing,
Canning
Sewage
Sugar Beet
Processing
Location Average Flow Pollutants affecting
RM RK MGD CMS Water Quality
313
313
312.5
312.2
306.7
301.7
296
295.8
295.6
503.7 0.86
503.7 0.18
502.9 6.5
502.4 116.0
493.6 1.8
485.5
476.4 0.063
476.0 1.3
475.7 2.5
.038 (BOD5, solids)
7.9X10'3 Cooling
.285 (solids, pH)
5.09 (BOD5, solids)
.079 (BOD5, solids)
2.76X10'3 (Temp.)
.057 (BOD5, solids)
.110 Condenser + Irrig. Return
(BOD5, nutrients)
Bacteriological
-------
TABLE 7B
Discharges of Record in South Platte River Basin as of 1973
Discharges to South Platte River - Sand Creek enters South Platte ra 312.1-
Pertinent Operations &
Name
Buckley Air National Guard
Waste Water Treatment Plant
Fitzsimons Hospital Waste
Water Treatment Plant
Stapleton International Airport
i City and County of Denver
en
1 Refinery Corp.
Continental Oil
Type of Facility
Sewage and
Maintenance
Hospital Sewage
Maintenance
Refinery
Refinery
Location
RM RK
312.1/9
312.1/5
312. I/
312.1 -
31 2. 1/
502. 3/
14.5
502. 3/
8.0
502 . 3/
502.3
502.3
Averaae
MGD
0.09
0.23
0.144
0.65
Flow
CMS
3.95xlO-3
lO.OxlO"3
6.3xlO"3
28.5xlO"3
Pollutants affecting
Water Duality
Discharged to Toll Gate Creek
Can be Discharged to Toll
Creek used for irrigation
Bypass of stormwater & ind
waters possible
(BOD5, Solids, N)
(BOD,-, Solids, N)
Gate
Lester Jones Sand and Gravel
Aggregate
312.I/
502.3/
0/F to Sand Creek via Burl.
Ditch
Washing
I/ Discharged to Burlington Ditch which c_an_ overflow to Sand Creek
-------
TABLE 7B
Discharges of Record In the South Platte River Basin as of 1973
Discharges to South Platte River - Clear Creek,Enters South Platte @ 311.1
Pertinent Operations
1
en
r\>
i
Name
Loveland Ski Basin
Mountain Aggregate
American Metals Climax - Urad
Georgetown Waste Water Treatment Plant
Idaho Springs Haste Water Treatment Plant
Golden Water Treatment Plant
WQS - Upstream of Golden
Type of Facility
Recreation (Sewage)
Sewage
Sewage
Domestic Water
Location
RM RK
311
311
311
311
311
.17 500.
49
.17 500
49
.17 500,
38.7
.17 500
19
.17 500,
17.9
flrtnlnh Coors Company
Wheat Ridge Waste Water Treatment Plant
Suburban Sand and Gravel
Brewery, Ceramics,
Sewage, Plating
Sewage
311
311
311
.17
18
.!/
7.7
.17
500.
500.
,67
78.9
.67
78.9
,67
62.3
.67
30.6
,67
28.8
67
30.0
67
12.4
500.67
Average Flow
MGD CHS
0
8
0
0
23
2
0
.2
.93
.3
.59
.0
.1
.58
8.78X10-3
.392
.013
25.9X10-3
1.01
.092
.025
K Pollutants affectinci
Water Duality
(Solids)
(BOD5, Bacteriological)
(•SOD5, Solids,
Cooting
(BOD5, solids.
(Solids)
Temp . )
Bact.)
Clear Creek Valley Waste Water Treatment Plant
Arvada Waste Water Treatment Plant
Cotter Corporation (Sc.hwartzwalder Mine)
Western Paving
Baker Metro Water Treatment Plant
Baker Waste Water Treatment Plant
Western Paving
Peter Kiewit
WQS - Near Mouth
Sewage and Sigman 311.17 500.67 0.5
Meat Co. (0.36 mgd) 7.0 11.3
21.9X10
'3
Sewage
Mining
Domestic Water
Sewage
311
311
311
311
311
311
311.
.17
6
.17
3
.17
4
.17
3.
.17
2,
.17
2.
,17
0.
,7
.8
.0
.4
.5
0
3
500
500
500,
500.
500.
500.
500
.67 1.1
10.8
.67 0.085
6.1
.67 0.084
6.4
.67 1.0
5.5
.67 0.1
4.0
6/ 0.03
3.2
•67
0.5
.048
3.73X10'3
3.69X1Q-3
.044
4.39X10-3
1.3X10-3
(BOD5, solids)
(BOD5, solids)
Discharges to Ralston
Creek
(BOD5, solids)
-------
TABLE 7B
Discharqes of Record in South Platte River Basin as of 1973
Discharges to South Platte River - Big Dry Creek enters South Platte @ 288.6
Name
Type of Facility
Location
RM RK
Average Flow
MGD ' CMS
Pertinent Operations &
Pollutants affecting
water quality
(U.S. AEC)
Dow Chemical Rocky Flats
Nuclear Materials
Manufacturing
288.6/30 464.4/
48.3
0.31
13.6x10
-3
To Great Western Reservoir
en
GO
Broomfield Waste Water
Treatment Plant
Western Electric
Sewage
Manufacturing
288.6/20
288.6/17
464.4/
32.2
464.4/
27.4
0.8
0.13
.035
5.7x10
-3
Cooling (TDS)
Westminster Waste Water
Treatment Plant
Sewage
-------
TABLE 7B
Discharges of Record in South Platte River Basin as of 1973
Discharges to South Platte River - Main Stem
Pertinent Operations &
Name
see Big Dry Creek enters at 288.6
Ft. Lupton Waste Water Treatment
Plant
Platteville Waste Water Treatment
Plant
La Salle Waste Water Treatment
Plant
see St. Vrain Creek enters at
270.0
see Big Thompson River enters
at 260.4
see Cache La Poudre River
enters at 249.0
WQS - Near Kersey
Crow Creek ( Intermittent)
discharges collected in
vicinty of Cheyenne, Wyo.
Great Western Sugar - Ft. Morgan
Ft. Morgan Waste Water Treatment
Plant
Brush Waste Water Treatment Plant
WQS - At Balzac
Terra Resources
Great Western Sugar (Sterling)
Sterling Waste Water Treatment
Plant
Platte Valley Rendering
Type of Facil i ty
Sewage
Sewage
Sewage
Sugar Beet Pro-
cessing
Sewage
Sewage
Sugar Beet Pro-
cessing
Sewage
Meat By-product
Processing
RM
287.6
276
273
270.0
260.4
249.0
46.5
241.7
196.2
195.2
185.6
174.0
169
150.4
148.6
150
Location
RK
462.8
444,2
439.3
434.5
419.1
400.7
396.7
389.0
315.7
314.1
298.7
280.0
272.0
242.0
239.1
241.4
Average Flow & Contaminent Affecting
MGD CMS Standards
0.8 .035 (Bacteria, Snlids)
0.1 4.39X10'3 (Bacteria)
0.1 4.39X10'3
Condenser water
10.8 .474 (BOD5, Solids, Nutrients,
Temp. )
2.6 .114 (BOD5, Solids, Bacteria)
1.1 .048 (BOD5, Solids, Bacteria)
0.022 .96X10'3
6.8 .298 Treated Process Water
(B005, Solids, N, Tenp. ,
Bacteria)
2.5 .110 (BOD5, Solids, Bacteria)
0.04 1.75X10'3 (BOD5, Solids, O&G)
-------
TABLE 7B
Discharges of Record in South Platte River Basin as of 1973
Discharges to South Platte River - Dry Creek enters Boulder Creek @ 14.8
Pertinent Operations &
Name Type of Facility Location Average Flow Pollutants affecting
RM RK MGD CHS water quality
Beech Aircraft Mfg, Plating, Rocket 270/14.8/15 434.5/23.8/ 0.003 1.32xlO~4 (Cr)
Testing 24.1
Boulder Water Treatment Plant Domestic Water 270/14.8/10 434.5/23.8/ 3.15 .139
16.1
en
en
-------
TABLE 7B
Discharges of Record in South Platte River Basin as of 1973
Discharges to South Platte River - Coal Creek enters Boulder Creek 0 7.9
Name
Type of Facility
Location
RM RK
Average Flow
MGD CMS
Pertinent Operations &
Pollutants affecting
water quality
Ideal Industries
Cement
Louisville Wastewater Treatment Sewage
Plant
Lafayette Wastewater Treatment Sewage
Plant
Erie Wastewater Treatment Plant Sewage
270/17.6/ 434.5/2S.3/ 0.064
7.9/19 12.7/30.6
270/17.6/ 434.5/2S/3/ 0.2
7.9/9 12.7/14.5
270/17.6/ 434.5/28.3/ 0.1
7.9/5 12.7/8.0
270/17.6/ 434.5/28.3/ 0.1
7.9/1 12.7/1.6
2.8x10
-3
8.78x10
-3
4.39x10
-3
4.39x10
-3
(ROD,-, solids, Bacteria)
(BOD5, Solids, Bacteria)
(BOD5, Solids, Bacteria)
-------
TABLE 7B
Discharges of Record in South Platte River Basin as of 1973
Discharges to South Platte River - Boulder Creek enters St. Vrain Creek ra 17.4
Pertinent Operations &
Name Type of Facility
Boulder Water Treatment Plant Domestic Water
Flat iron Premix
Boulder Wastewater Treatment Sewage
Plant (Pearl Street)
Public Service Company Power Gen - Coal
(Boulder)
C & M Sand and Gravel
Boulder Waste Water Treatment Sewage
Location
RM
270/17. 4/
10
270/17. 4/
22
270/17. 4/
21.3
270/17. 4/
270/17. 4/
20
270/17. 4/
Average Flow
RK MGD • CMS
434. 5/28. O/ 1.53 .067
6.1
434. 5/28. n/ 3.2 .140
35.4
434. 5/28. O/ 4. .176
34.3
434. 5/28. O/ 9.9 .435
434. 5/28. O/ 0.8 .035
32.2
434. 5/28. O/ 7.8 .342
on r
Pollutants affecting
water Quality
(BOD5> Solids)
(BOD5> Solids)
(BOD5, Solids) Discharge
to Lakes
(Solids)
(BOD5, Solids)
See Dry Creek enters @ 14.8
See Coal Creek enters @ 7.9
WQS - Boulder-Weld Co Line
17.8
270./17.4/ 434.5/28.O/
7.0 11.3
-------
TABLE 7B
Discharges of Record in South Platte River Basin as of 1973
Discharges to South Platte River - Saint Vrain Creek enters South Platte @ 270
en
Co
Name Type of Facility
Lyons Waste Water Treatment Plant Sewage
Longmont Water Treatment Plant Domestic Water
Golden Gravel
Longmont Waste Water Treatment Sewage
Plant
Gould Filters
Great Western Sugar Co. '- Sugar Beet Proc.
Longmont
WQS - Weld - Boulder County
Line
see Boulder Creek enters @ 17.4
WQS - Downstream of Longmont
WQS - Near Mouth
Location Average Flow
RM P.K MGD CMS
270/39
270/35
270/25
270/23
270/22
270/21
270/20.8
270/17.4
270/17.2
270/1.3
434.5/62.8 0.1
434.5/56.3 1.63
434.5/40.2 0.004
434.5/37.0 3.7
434.5/35.4 0.038
434.5/33.8 7.0
434.5/33.5
434.5/28.0
434.5/27.7
434.5/2.1
4.39X10'3
7.16X10"2
1.75X10'4
.162
1.67X10"3
.307
Pertinent Operations
& Pnllutants affecting
Water Quality
(BOD5, Bacteria)
Public Service Co. (Ft. St. Vrain) Power Gen.(nuclear) 270/1.0
431.5/1.6
3.0
.132
(BOD5, Solids, Bacteria)
Condenser Water
(BODcj, Solids, Temp, Bact.)
(BOD5, Solids, Temp)
-------
en
i
TABLE 7B
Discharges of Record in South Platte River Basin as of 1973
Discharges to South Platte River - Little Thompson River enters Big Thompson River @ 7.0
Name
Type of Facility
Location
RM
RK
Average Flow
MGD CMS
Johnstown Wastewater Treatment
Plant
Sewage
260.4/7.0/2.
419.1/11.3/ 0.2
3.2
Pertinent Operations
and Pollutants
affecting Water Quality
Berthoud Wastewater Treatment Plant
Carnation Milk Company
Great Western Sugar Company
(Johnstown)
Sewage
Evap. Milk
Sugar Recovery
i MSG Production
260. 4/7. O/
12
260. 4/7. O/
4
260. 4/7. O/
2.0
419. 1/11. 3/
19.3
419. 1/11. 3/
6.4
419. 1/11. 3/
3.2
0.2
0.05
4.0
8.78xlO~3
2.20xlO"3
.176
(BOD5, Solids, Bacteria)
Discharge to Hillsborough
Ditch; intermittent
to Little Thompson River
Condenser & Process
Water (BOD5, Solids,
3.78x10
-3
Nutrients, Bacteria)
(BOD5)
-------
TABLE 7B
Discharges of Record in South Platte River Basin as of 1973
Discharges to South Platte River - Big Thompson River enters South Platte @ 260.4
Pertinent Operations
Name
Controlled Stream Flow
Fish Hatchery 692, Colo. F&G,
Estes Park
Federal Facilities U.S. Rocky
Mountain National Park
Estes Park Waste Water Treatment
Plant
1 Fish Hatchery, Colo. F&G, Drake
Flatiron Paving (Loveland)
i
Loveland Packing Co.
Flatiron Sand & Gravel (Loveland)
Loveland Water Treatment Plant
Loveland Waste Water Treatment
Plant
Great Western Sugar {Loveland)
Greeley Water Treatment Plant
Type of Facility
Fish Rearing
Sewage
Sewage
Fish Rearing
Beef & Pork
Processing
Domestic Water
Sewage
Sugar Beet
Process
Domestic Water
Location
RM RK
260
260
260
260
.4/60.5
.4/60
.4/54.5
.4/42
260. 4/
260.4/25.5
260
.4/
260. 4/
260
.4/24.5
260.4/22.5
260.
4/
419
419
419
419
419
419
419
419
419
419
419
.1/97.4
.1/96.6
.1/87.7
.1/67.6
-I/
.1/41.0
-I/
-I/
.1/39.4
.1/36.2
.!/
Average Flow
MGD CMS
1.
0
0,
3
3,
0.
2
0
2
8.
0.
.8
.024
.9
.9
.0
.05
.5
.15
.7
2
12
.079
1.05X10"3
3.95X10"2
.171
.132
2.19X10'3
.110
6.58X10"3
.118
.360
5.27X10'3
& Contaminent
Standards
(BOD5,
(BOD5,
(BOD5,
(BOD5,
Solids,
Solids)
Solids)
Solids,
Affecting
N)
N)
(Solids)
Process Water
(BOD5)
(Solids)
(BOD5,
Treated
(BOD5,
Solids,
Process
Solids)
Bact.)
Water
see Little Thompson River
enters @ 7.0
WQS - Near Mouth
Floyd Hoag Sand and Gravel
260.4/7.0 419.1/11.3
260.4/0.9 419.1/1.4
Aggregate
Washing
-------
TABLE 7B
Discharges of Record in South Platte River Basin as of 1973
Discharges to South Platte River -Eaton Draw enters Cache La Poudre River @ 6.9
Name
Type of Facility
Location
RM RK
Average Flow
MGD CMS
Pertinent Operations &
Pollutants affecting
Water Quality
Great Western Sugar (Eaton)
Eaton Wastewater Treatment
Plant
Sugar Beet Processing
Sewage
249/6.9/7. 400.7/11.I/ 2.6
(3 discharges) 11.3
249/6.9/6.5 400.7/11.I/ 0.2
10.5
.114 Condenser, Scruber
boilers
(BOD5, Solids, N ,
Bacteria)
8.78xlO"3 (BOD5, Bacteria)
-------
TABLE 7B
Discharges of Record in South Platte River Basin as of 1973
Discharges to South Platte River - Cache La Poudre River enters South Platte @ 249.0
Pertinent Operations
Name
Fish Hatchery - Rustic (Colo F&G)
WQS - upstream Ft. Collins
Fish -Hatchery Belleview Colo. FSG
Fish Hatchery Belleview Colo. F&G
Poudre Premix
Ranchway Feedmills
Greeley Water Treatment Plant
(Boyd Lake-Pcudre)
(Belleview)
Ft. Collins Water Treatment Plant
Ft. Collins Light 3 Power
Lone Star Steel
Ft. Collins tl Waste Water Treat-
ment Plant
Ft. Collins H2 Waste Water Treat-
ment Plant
Boxelder Waste Water Treatment
Plant
Terra Resources
Flatiron Paving
Winsdor Waste Water Treatment
Plant
Mountain Aggregate
Greeley Sand & Gravel
Flatiron Paving
see Eaton Draw enters @ 6.9
Weld County By Products Co.
Manfort of Colorado Packing Co.
Greeley Waste Hater Treatment
Plant
Great Western Sugar Co. (Greeley)
WQS - Hear Greeley
Type of Facility
Fish Rearing
Fish Rearing
Fish Rearing
Concerte
Domestic Water
Domestic Water
Domestic Water
Power Gen .
Sewage
Sewage
Sewage
Sewage
Dog Food
Beef 8 Lamb
Processing
Sewage
Sugar Beet Pro-
cessing
Location
RM RK
249/74
249/56.3
249/49
249/47
249/46
249/46
249/46
249/46
249/45
249/44.1
249/40.2
249/39.2
249/35
249/29
249/23
2-Js/lu
240/10
245/10
249/7.4
249/6
249/5.3
249/4.5
249/2.9
400.7/119.1
400.7/90.6
400.7/78.8
400.7/75.6
400.7/74.0
400.7/74.0
400.7/74.0
400.7/74
400.7/72.4
400.7/71.0
400.7/64.7
400.7/63.1
400.7/56.3
400.7/46.7
400.7/37.0
400.7/16.1
inn. 7/16.1
400.7/1G.1
400.7/11.9
400.7/9.6
400.7/8.5
400.7/7.2
400.7/4.7
Average Flow
MGD CHS
7.4
1.5
11.5
0.004
0.00006
.1
.6
0.7
0.31
0.03
3.9
3.9
0.3
0.009
2.8
0.15
u.26
3."
2.n
0.0004
7.0
7.5 seasonal
.325
.066
.505
1. 76X10-4
2.63X10'6
4.4X10"3
26.3X10-3
.031
.014
1.3X10"3
.171
.171
.013
3. 95X10-4
.123
6.58X10"3
12.3X1U-3
.132
.088
1.76X10'5
.307
.329
& Pollutants affecting
Water Duality
(BOC5, Solids,
(BOD5, Solids,
(BODj, Solids,
PH
pH
Temp. pH
(BOD5, Solids,
(BOD5, Solids,
(B005, Solids,
Bacteria)
N, Bact.)
N, Bact.)
Bacteria)
Bacteria)
Bacteria)
(BOD5) Bacteria)
(TDS)
(BODS)
(TDS)
(Bact.BODj)
lagoon seepage
Cooling 8 Defrost Water-
Hide flume
(BOD5, Solids,
(BOD5, Solids,
Temp, Bacteria
Bacteria)
Nutrients
)
-------
TABLE 7B
Discharge of Record in the South Platte River Basin as of 1973
Discharges to South Platte River - Main Stem
Location
flame
Type of Facility
RM
RK
MGD
Average Flow
CMS
Pertinent Operations &
Pollutants affecting
Water Quality
Crook Waste Water Treatment Facility
Ovid Waste Water Treatment Facility
Great Western Sugar Company (Ovid)
Julesburg Wastewater Treatment Plant
WQS - Near Julesburg
Sewage
Sewage
Sugar Beet Processing
Sewage
118
95.0
94.8
89.6
87.0
189.9
152.9
152.6
144.2
140.0
0.025
0.025
5.0
0.2
1.10X10"3
1.10X10'3
.220
8.78xlO"3
(BOD5, Solids)
(BOD5> Solids)
Treated Process Water
(BODc, Solids, Nutrients,
Racteria )
(BOD5, Solids , Bacteria)
CO
I
-------
TABLE 7C
*
Summary of Major Industrial Discharges in the
South Platte River Basin as of 1973
Facility
Public Service (Zuni)
Public Service (Cherokee)
Great Western - Brighton
American Metals Climax -
Urad
Coors
Great Western
Ft. Morgan
Great Western
Sterling
Great Western
Longmont
Public Service -
Ft. St. Vrain
Flatiron Premix
Public Service -
Valmont
Fish Hatchery
Flatiron Paving
Flatiron Sand ft Gravel
Great Western
Loveland
Great Western
Johnstown
Fish Hatchery - Rustic
Fish Hatchery - Belleview
Flatiron Paving
Greeley Sand & Gravel
Flatiron Paving
Great Western -(Greeley)
Great Western -(Eaton)
Great Western -(Ovid)
Location
RK
511.8
502.9
475.7
500.6/78.9
500.6/30
315.7
242.0
434.5/33.5
435.5/2.1
434.5/28.0/35.4
434. 5/28. O/
419.1/67.6
419. I/
419. I/
419.1/36.2
419. 1/11. 3/
400.7/119.1
400.7/78.8
400.7/46.7
400.7/16.1
400.7/16.1
400.7/7.2
400.7/11.1/11.3
152.6
Receiving Stream
South Platte
South Platte
South Platte
Clear Creek
Clear Creek
South Platte
South Platte
St. Vrain
St. Vrain
Boulder Creek
Boulder Creek
Big Thompson
Big Thompson
Big Thompson
Big Thompson
Little Thompson
Cache La Poudre
Cache La Poudre
Cache La Poudre
Cache La Poudre
Cache La Poudre
' Cache La Poudre-
Eaton Draw
South Platte
MGD
44
6.5
2.5
8.93
23.0
10.8
6.8
7.0
3.0
3.2
9.9
3.9
3.0
2.5
8.2
.4.0
7.4
11.5
2.8
3.0
2.0
7.5
2.6
5.0
CMS
1.932
0.285
0.110
0.392
1.010
0.474
0.298
0.307
0.132
0.140
0.434
0.171
0.132
0.110
0.360
0.176
0.325
0.505
0.123
0.132
0.088
0.329
0.114
0.219
Totals
For the purposes of this table, major industrial discharges are those having discharge
volumes equal to or greater than 0.09 cms or "2 MGD.
- 64 -
-------
most stream and discharge confluences must also be determined by short term
surveys. Obviously, determinations of mixing zone dimensions will dictate
station locations for the water quality surveillance system and until these
dimensions are known, or are specified, locations must be set tentatively.
Similarly, areas of nonpoint source discharges should be determined.
A network comprised of seven stations is herein proposed for the main
stem of the South Platte River. An additional six stations are considered
necessary to monitor the major tributary streams. Station locations and
data to be gathered are presented in Table 8. .
It must be emphasized that the thirteen stations are derived from the
premise that they are long-term (>10 years) stations designed to show long-
term trends and major violations of surface water quality standards. It might
reasonably be expected that an equivalent number of additional stations
would have to operate at other locations at any given time, where the purpose
of the additional stations would be to evaluate or quantify such factors
as the potential of Clear Creek as a fishery, .water quality in the lake formed
by Chatfield Dam, the source of wastes in Clear Creek, the mixing of discharges
from sewage treatment plants and industrial facilities or the impact of Clear
Creek on the quality of the South Platte River. Further, the network of
stations proposed in Table 8 also assumes adequate monitoring of point source
and non-point sources of water quality degradation
- 65 -
-------
TABLE 8
PROPOSED HATER 1UALITV SURVEILLANCE STATIONS FOR SOUTH PLATTE RIVER BASIN IN COLORADO
Station (Description Flow Field DO Color Common Nutrients Ornanics Suspended "Trace" Microhio- Biological Fisheries Radio- Pesticides
and Location
South Platte River 1
9 South Platte
South Platte River 1
@ Colorado 470
Bear Creek 1
near Mouth
South Platte River 1
? Alameda Avenue
Cherry Creek 1
near Mouth
South Platte River 1
near Franklin St.
Clear Creek 1
near Mouth
South Platte River 1
near Henderson
St. Vrain Creek 1
near uouth
Biq Thompson River 1
near "outh
Cache La Poudre 1
River near Mouth
South Platte River 1
near Kersey
South Platte River 1
near Julesburg
Measurements
2 2 2
1 1 2
2 2 2
2 2 2
2 22
1 1 2
2 2 2
1 1 2
2 2 2
2 2 2
2 22
2 2 2
1 1 2
Ions
2 2
2 2
2 2
2 2
2 2
2 2
2 2
2 2
2 2
2 2
2 2
2 2
2 2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
o
2
2
2
2
Solids
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
Elements
5
5
5
5
5
5
5
(1
5
5
5
5
5
logical
2
2
2
2
J
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
5/6
5/6
5/6
5/6
5/6
5/6
5/6
5/6
5/6
5/6
5/6
5/6
0/6
6
6
6
6
6
6
6
6
6
6
6
6
6
looical
5*
C
0
0
0
0
0
0
3"
0
0
5*
0
6
0
0
0
0
0
0
6
6
6
6
6
6
Frequency of measurements indicted thus: 0: None 4: Bi-monthly
1: "Continuous" 5: Quarter! v
2: Weeklv 6: Seasonal* (Hinh-Low Flow)
3: Monthly
Description of Measurements: Field Measurerients: Spec. Cond., pH, Tciim
Common Ions: Si, Ca, Hq, Ma, K, HC03, C03, S04, Cl
Nutrients: T-PO^, 0-Pf)4, HQ3-H, H02-«, NH3-H, TKN
Organics: BOD5, COD, TOC
Trace Elements: B, F, Mn, Fe, Cu, Zn, Sr, Ba, Ph, Mo, Ag, Al, As, HO, Se, Oil & Grease
Microbiological: Total Coliform, Fecal Coliform
Biological: Benthos, Pcriohyton, Bottom Sediment (Sampled Quarterly first 2 yrs, then seasonal)
Fisheries: Fish, Bioassay -(Fish, ftlgal, Invertebrate)
Radiological: * Natural P.adinnuclides, Tritium, Strontium - 90, Gamma Scan
** Tritium, Strontium - 90, Gamma Scan
- 66 -
-------
APPENDIX A
- 67 -
-------
Key For Appendices
Sampling Location
State in which sampling was conducted
Major drainage basin
Major drainage sub basin
BOULDER CR. flT
08 CCLORflOO
MJ550URJ flIVCR
SOUTH FLH1TE
-21COL001
M
BUOR WELO CO LINE
Mean,
Mini mum Vf.li
/ from NF1C--D
Survey
0 700
Tint Oflirs
River kilometers (main stem and tributaries) which denote sampling
locations occupied by the National Field Investigations Center - Denver
(NFIC-D) survey during the Fall of 1971. If no "RK" value is shown, the
NFIC-D samples were collected at the same location as the state and county
samples.
If no NFIC-D data is shown on graph (a dark, vertical line above the
September or December, 1971 points on the horizontal scale) either no sample
was collected by NFIC-D or else the sample value exceeded the upper limit
imposed on the vertical scale and could not be shown.
- 68 -
-------
APPENDIX A - 1
Computer Plots of Total Coliform Concentrations vs. Time at
Long Term Water Quality Monitoring Stations in the South Platte
River
- 69 -
-------
SOUTH PLflTfE BT SOUTH PLflTTE
oe coLOflfloo
MISSOURI RIVER
SOUTH PLATTE
21COLOOI 77777777
0000 FEET
OEPTH
1969
970
1971
1972
o toa 100 100
1970
fy- ^
• 00 1C
I
1971
•H '/A
/I /
Jvl v
1972
\A/S/V
I
I.
5
31
O
O
X
0
•z.
c.
u.
o
o
o
o
SOUTM PLflTTE B83VE LITTLETON (Hfohw./ 1(70)
08 COLORflOO
nJSSCURJ RJVER
SOUTH PLflTTE
21COL001 77777777
•1 ' OCOO fE£T OEPTM
0 5
1970
1971
o too zoo ?oo tioa goo too loo too »oo 1000 uoo 1100
TIME OflTS
SOUTH ."LflTTE'R BT OBRTnOUTH BVE
' 08 CO'.GP.fiCO
M5SOUB1 PJVER 6B5JN
SOUTH PLflTTE RIVER BSSIN
2KOOHOP 211 1201
_| 0000 FEET DEPTH
c 100 soc too eoo toao 1700 ttoo. n
-------
SOUTH PtBTTE B flT flLflHEOfl SVENUE
00 COLORR08
M;SSOURJ. RJVER BBSJN
SOUTH PLSTTE RIVtR SflSJN
21CODMOP Z11120M
0000 FEET DEPTH
t\
1967
1969
1970
1971
1972
700 "00
50 PLSTTE R • FRflNKLIN 3T BRJOCE
08 CCLORflOO
MISSOURI RJVER 6SSJN
SOUTH FLflTTE RIVER SflSJI
21CCOHOP 211120<1
0000 FEET OEPTH
SOUTH PlflTTE fl « 13TH ST 8RJOCE
03 CCLOilAOO
KISSO'JRJ RIVEB BflSJN
SOUTH PLflTTE RIVEfl SflSTN
Z1COOHOP 2111201
_2 0000 fEET 0
700 <«00 (00
1000 t?00
SOUTH PlflTtE BT HENDERSON
08 COlORflOO
njssoun.1 RJVER
SOUTH PLflTTE
21COL001 77777777
0000 fEET DEPTH
-------
ro
i
a
3
SOUTH Piflm NEBfl KERSEY
08 COLORSOO
MISSOURI RJVEfl
SOUTH PLflTTE
21C8L001 77777117
0000 FEET DEPTH
SOUTH PVflTTE.flT BfilZBC
08 COLOBflOO
HlSSOUflJ RlVCfl
SOUTM PLflTTE
21COLOOI 77777777
0000 FEET OEPTH
1968
1971
1972
1968
n
0 700
TIME OflTS
0 200
TIME OflfS
SOUTH PI>TT£ NEBR JULES6U.1C
OB COLOflBOO
MJSSOUflJ fllVfn
SOUTH PtflTTE
21C01.001 77777777
0000 FEET DEPTH
1972
-------
8ERR CREEK PI JErf flflflr CO U«£
08 COLOHflOO
BJSSOUPJ BJVEH
SOUTH PUflTTE
2KOLOO! 71777717
J4 OCOO FEET OEPTH
CHCRBY en BT DENVER. COLO
08 ce'.op.ffoo
MJSSCUP.) P.1VC.1
CO
I
CLEfln CREEK S80VE COLOEN
08 COLORADO
MISSOURI RJVER
SOUTH PLflTTE
JKOL001 77111717
0000 FEET DEPTH
1963
1969
19
1971
OK
500.7/30,
1972
CUEflR CREEK NEflfi MOUTH
08 COLORflOO
MISSOURI RJVER
SOUTH PLSTTE
21CCL001 nilim
0000 FEET DEPTH
-------
ST VflflJN BELOW 1.0NCHONT
08 COLORROO
HJSSOURJ flJVEfl
SOUTH PlflTTE
21COL001 77777777
0000 FEET DEPTH
100 too loo 100 ioo too TOO too 000 1000 i loo 1200 tioo
80UUOEB CH.. ST SLOB MELO CO LJNE
08 COLORflOO
MiSSO'JflJ flJVER
58-Jln PLflTTE
2K8L001 77777777
JJ 0000 f£ET DEPTH
ST. VflflJH NEflH HflUTM
08 COLCBflOO1
nJSSOUR] BIVEfl
SOUTH PLflTTE
51COL001 . 77777777
0000 FEET DEPTH
1972
0 ?00 VOO <00 *00
TIME OfltS
8IC THOM."SQN NEflR MOUTH
08 COLOaflOO
HISSOl'SJ K.'VES
SOUTH PLP1TE
2KCL001 77777777
Jl _ 0000 FEET DEPTH
-------
—I
cn
CflCME Lfl CCUOBE NEflfl GREEUT
08 COLOftHOa
njssousi RIVER
SOUTH ."UflTTe ' .
21COLOOI 77777777
• >4 0000 FEETOEP7M
1968
197Z
CBCME Lfl POUORE S80VE FT COLLJNS
cs coLCP.nDo'
1 KJSSCUfU RJVEP,
SCUlll PLflTTE
21COL001 77777777
Jl 0000 FECT DEPTH
TIME OflTS
-------
APPENDIX A - 2
Computer Plots of Fecal Coliform Concentrations vs. Time at
Long Term Water Quality Monitoring Stations in the South Platte
River
- 76 -
-------
SOUTH PLflTTE fll
08 COLOR/100
HISSOUA) RJVER
SO'JTH PL BITE
21COLOOI
J4
SOUTH PLfllTE
too 100 too sco tcoo noo i?oo nco
lint OflTS
SOUTH PlflTTE R fll BOWLES flVENUE
08 CCL'ORflOO
nissouaj RJVER essjN
SOUTH PLfllTE RIVER 8SSJN
21COOHOP 211120M
2 0000 fEET DEPTH
RIVER
SOUTH PLflTTE
Z1COLOO!
11
77777777
COOP FEET CEPTH
1971
Y
\
'1972
loo coo loo aoo aoo 1000
not? 1700
71HE OfllfS
SOUTH PLflTTE R PT OPRTMOUTH BVE
08 COXORSOO
MIS50URJ RJVER 8flSI«
SOUTH PLflTTE RJVER 8SS1N
21COOHOP .' 2111201
_2 0000 FEET DEPTH
1969
1971
1972
100 1030 U
-------
SOUTH PlflTIE fl «T fl!.flH£Ofl SV£«U£
00 COLORADO
MISSOURI RIVER ensjit
SOUTH PlfiTTE RJVEB SflSJN
21COOHDP 2111201
2 0000 ftE7 OE
196
1970
1971
1972
HUE opts
SO PLS1TE R • FBSNK1.1N ST BRJOCE
OB coLonnoo
MJSSOUFU BIVEB flflSIN
SOUIn PlfllTE RJVEB OflSJN
21COOMOP 211120M
• 2 0000 FE£T OEPTM
1967
1969
1970
'971
1972
SOUTH,PIPTTE fl « I9TH ST BRIDGE
08 COUOBPOO
MISSOURI BiVEfl eflSIN
SOUT.l PLATTE RIVER 6SS1«
21CCOMDP 21112W
_2 0000 f££7 DEPTH
1969
1970
1971
U
tOO 7000
UnE OflfS
SOUTH PUflTTE BT HENDERSON
09 COLCRROO
MISSOURI RIVER
SOUTH FLfllTE
21COL001 '77777777
COCO FEET DEPTH
TIME DBYS
-------
SOUTH PlflTTE NEBfl KERSEf
08 CCCOSSOO
tlJSSCURJ RIVER
scum POniE
J1C3U001 71777777
0000 fEET OtPTM
1968
1971
SOUTH PLSTTE SI BBIZBC
08 CSLCRflOO
MJ55GUnj RJVER
SOUTH PLBTTE
21COL001 77777777
' 0000 FEET DEPTH
TIME OflTS
SOUTH, PLflTTE NEflR JULES8URG '
08 COLORADO
MISSOURI RJV H
SOUTH PLflTTE
21C01.001
-------
BESS CREEK flT JIFF SRflP CO LIKE
OB COLORADO
MISSOURI RJVER
SOUTH PLflTTE
21COLOOI 77777777
W 0000 FEET DEPTH
CHER/U CR fll DENVER. COLO
08 CGLtfRSOO
1968
1969
1972
line
CLESR CREEK S80VE GOLDEN
08 COLORADO
nlSSOURJ RJVER
SOUTH PLflTTE
21COLOOI 77777777
Jl COOP FEET DEPTH
1963
1972
SO FLSTTE RJVER
21COOMOP J111ZOM
2 _ 0000 FEET _ DEPTH
".£ OSYS
CLEAR CREEK NEflR HOUTH
08 COLO.-.POO
MISSOURI 8)V£R
SOUTH PLflTTE
21C5L001 77777777
COCO FEET OEPTC.
-------
57 VflflVN BELOW LONCMONT
08 CO'.ORflOO
MISSOUB; RJVEB
SOUTH PlflTTE
21COL001 77777777
0000 PEE1 DEPTH
e>
3
SI. VBflJN NEflB HOU7H
OS COLOBflDO
MISSOURI BJVCS
SOUTH PLflTTE
2ICOL001
77777717
COOP fEET
DEPTH
1968
1972
TJHE OPlfS
eOULOEB CB. flT BLOB MELD CO LINE
OB COLOBflDO
MJ5SOUB1 RIVEB
SOUTH PLflTTE
21COL001 77777777
M 0000 TE£T DEPTH
1969
1970
1971
n.7
1972
B]C THCnPSON NEflR BOU7H
08 COLORADO
MISSOURI RIVET
SOUTH PLflTTE
21COL001 77777777
M 0000 FEET DEPTH
1972
-------
00
to
CBCHE LB POUORE BBOVE f^ COLLINS
08 COLO>lflOO
MISSOURI RIVER
SOUTH PLfllTE
21COL001 77777777
"4 oono rtn
10 S
1968
0 200
7JME OflYS
1972
MOO COO 100 1090 1200 tHOO 1(00
'CflCME Lfl Pfl'JORE NEflR CREEL 11
03 CaLOSAOO
r.JSSOURJ P.JVER
SOUIti PUflTTE
21COLOOI 77777777
Jl 0000 fEET OEP7M
1968
0 200
TIME OfltS
1000 1200 ' 1«00
-------
APPENDIX A - 3
Computer Plots of Dissolved Oxygen Concentrations vs. Time at
Long Term Water Quality Monitoring Stations in the South Platte
River Basin
- 83 -
-------
SSUTM rioTTE flf
08 COIORBOO
Hissounj Hives
soinn
2ICOLOOI
77777777
0000 FEET
OEPTM
1972
53','TM PLBTTE BBOVE LJULETON
08 C3I.ORBCG
MSSSL'flj RJVEB
SOUTH fljmE
JICflLCOl 77777777
0000 fEET DEPTH
Ii70)
TIME DflTTS
SOUTH PLflTTE « £7 BOWLES flVENUE
08 COLORflOS
MISSOURI RJVER aflSJM
S3UTH PLSTTE RJVER BflSJN
2KOOMOP Z1U20H
_| 0000 fECT DEPTH
auum rLHMt R ST OflRTHOUTM SVE
OB COLORflOO
MISSOURI RIVEfl BSSIN
SOUTH PLflTTE RJVEP, BflSm
J'.CCOHOP ZIUJOI
__2 0000 fEET OCPTfl
I7C3 1KCO
If00 1100
-------
00
en
SOUTH PlflTTE R BT BIBMEOB BVENUE
OS COLORBOO
MISSOURI RJVtfl 8BSJN
SOUTH PLflTTE RJVER BBSJN
21COOHO? 211I20H
2 0000 fEET DEPTH
1972
SOUTH PLBTTE R • 191H'ST 8RJOCE
08 COLORBBO
HJSSOURJ niV£R SflSJH
SOUTH PlflTTE RJVER BBSJN
21COOHDP 211120l<
2 0000 FEET DEPTH
1967
1J72
TIME
SO PLBTTE R « FRflNKLIN ST 8RJOCE
OB COUOHBOO
MISSOURI RJVER BflSIH
SOUTH PLBTTE RJVER eflSIN
21CCOHOP 2111201)
2 0000 TEET DEPTH
1972
SOUTH PLflTTE BT HENDERSON
OB COLORBOO,
MJSSOUflJ RJVER
SOUTH PLBTTE
2ICOL001 ' 77777777
J4 0000 rEE7 DEPTH
1972
uoa «oo
-------
SOUTH PlflTTE NEBB KER5E1T
08 COUCKflpO
MISSCURJ RIVER
SOUTH PIBTTE
2ICOL001 77777777
ij 0000 FEET DEPTH
00
cr>
1968
1972
o 200
11HE OSTS
•00 eoo
SOUTH riBTTE NEfifl JULES8URC
08 COLORflOq
MISSOURI RJVEfl
SOUTH PLflTTE
21COLC01 77777777
0000 fECT OEPTH
SOUTH PLBTTE BT Bfl'-tflC
08 COLORPOg
MISSOURI RJVER
SOUTH PUflTTE
2ICOL001 77777777
0000 fEET OEPTH
0 ZOO
T1HE OBITS
tooo . 1200 moo 'too
-------
BEPR CREEK B1 JEFF SRSP CO UNE
08 C3LORBOO.
MISSOURI RIVER
SOUTH PLflTTE
21COLOOI 77777777
J4 0000 FEET DEPTH
1972
100 700 700
nt OBITS
1000 1100 1X00
CLEflR CREEK S80VE GOLDEN
08 COLORMO-
nJSSO'JRI RIVER
SOUTH pLflm
21COLOOI 77777777
0000 FEET DEPTH
1968
1969
1970
1971
1972
CHERflr CR flT OEHVER. COLO
08 COLORADO
M13SOURJ RIVER
SO PLfl'IE RIVER
2ICOOHOP J11120M
2 ocoo FEET DEPTH
700 HOO 000 100 1000 al?QO 1KOO 1COO 1AOO 7000 7200
CLEfln CREEK NEflR MOUTM
08 COLOPflOb
MISSOURI RIVER
SOUTH flflTTE
Z1COL001 77777777
0000 FEET DEPTH
1968
1972
-------
oo
oo
ST VRPJN BEIOH LONCHONT
08 COLORHOO
HISSOURJ RJVER
SOUTH rifllTE
2ICOL001 77777777
0000
OEP1H
1972
a 100 ?oo 100 voo 100
TlflE OflTS
Bouiotn CB. m BLOR HELD co LINE
08 COLORflOO
(11SSOURI BJVtR
SOUTH rism
21COL001 77777777
U OOCO fEET OEFTH
ST. VP.3.-N NEP3
OB coLonsao
MJSSCL'PJ RJVEB
SClHM TLSTTE
2!CCLOC1
J)
77777777
OCCO fCC7
. 1968
1972
0 203 llOO
TIME OPTS
8JC THOMPSON NEBR
08 COUSHflDO
nJSSO'JRJ R;VER
21C3L001
M
77777777
0000 FEET flEPTH
1966
1972
1100 noo
-------
00
vo
C«CH£ Lfl POUORE flSOVE FT COLLINS
08 COLOflflOJ
KISSOURJ HJVER
SOUTH PLflTTE
21COL001 77T777T7
11 0000 fEtT OE
1766
o too
TIME OflYS
1972
CBCME LO POUORE NESR CREELET
08 CCLORS50
njssouij R;VER
SOUTH PLBT7E
21COLOOI 77777777
<4 0000 TEET OtPTM
1968
0 700
TIME OflfS
1972
-------
APPENDIX A - 4
Computer Plots of 5-Day Biochemical Oxygen Demand Concentrations
vs. Time at Long Term Water Quality Stations in the South Platte
River Basin
- 90 -
-------
SOUTH ri/niE m SOUTH
08 COLORAOl)
MISSOURI RIVER
SOUTH PLflTTE
21COIOOI 77771777
H. 0000 FEET DEPTH
700 loo too £00 aoo 100 aoo 500 1000 noo 1200
TIME CftfS
SOUTH .-IfltTE.n ST BOWLES BVErlUE
08 COLORfiDO
MISSOURI RIVER BflSlH
SOUTH PLBT7E RIVER BflSIN
21CODHOP 21112011
2 0000 FEET DEPTH
SOUTH fLOTTE B80VE LITTLETON {Hljtw«y Ii70)
08 COLORflOO
HISSOUHI RIVER
SOUTH PLflTTE
21CCL001 77777777
_U ^^__ 0000 FEET DEPTH
700 IOC HOO '500 fOO 700 100 100 1000 1100 1700 1100
TIHE OBI'S
SOUTH rifm.£ R B7 OflRTMOUTH BVE
C8 COLORflDO
HJSSOUfll RIVER 8BSIN
SOUTH FLBT1E RIVER'BBSIH
21COOHOP 21112011
_2 0000 fEET DEPTH
1972
?nc 'toa ceo 400 1000 1200
1100 1100 7300 7700
-------
TV)
SOUTH piflm R m fliSHEos BVENUE
os COLORAOB
MISSOURI RJVEP. 80S IN
SOUTH r'u
-------
SOUTH PlflTTE NEBR KERSEY
08 COLORSDO
flJSSOURI RIVER
SOUTH FLBTTE
21COL001 77177777
>4 0000 FEET DEPTH
to
CO
SOUTH P1.BTTE. flT SfiLZflC
08 COLOSBOO
HIS50URJ SJVER
SOUTH PLSTTE
2ICOLOO! 77777777
0000 FtCT DEPTH
SOUTH PLBTTE NEHR JULE5BURO
08 COUOHHOO
MISSOURI RIVER
SOUTH PlSTTE
21COLOOI 77777777
OOCO FEET DEPTH
Tilt 2f.T5
-------
I
vo
8EPB CREEK flT JEFf flfW CO UNE
06 COL9RSOO
NJSSOUR1 RJVER
SOUTH PLflTTE
2ICOL001 71777777
0000 fECT OEP7H
100 200 100 VOO 190 100 TOO 100 900 1000 1100 1200 1)00
o
CLEfl« CREEK BBOVE COLOEN
08 COLORflOO
NJSSOUfl] BIVER
50U1H PLS17E
J1COLOOI 77777777
0000 FEET DEPTH
CHERRY in S7 OEMVEP, CCLO
06 CCIOIWJ
K1SGOURJ PJV£R
so PLflT-E R;VEB
ZiCOO.IO.0 2111201
2 0000 FEET OEMH
>00 2000 2200'
CLERfl CREEK NEHR MOUTH
06 CfllCRflOO
MISSOURI RIVER
SOUTH PLflTTE
21COU001 ' 77777777
0000 FEET DEPTH
-------
57 VRpJN.eELOH LOKGMONT
06 COLORBDO
MISSOURI BIVER
SOUTH Plum
2IC01001 77717777
Jl _ 0000 fin DEPTH
1969
too too ibo xbo • sbo voo too tb<
OBIS
BOULDER V. AT BLOB UEIO CO LINE
08 COLORPOO
MISSOURI RJVEB
SOUTH TLflTTE
21COL001 77777777
14 _ 0000 FEET DEPTH
500 1000 1100 UOO 1100
1972
ST. VRfliN NEBR MOUTM
08 COLOHflOu
MISSOURI RIVER
SOUTH rUBTTE
21COUOO) 77777777
1) 0000 TEET DEP7M
BIG THOMPSON NEBB MOUTH
08 COLORflCO
MJSSOURJ RJVER
SOUTH PLBTTE
21COL001 77777777
l| 0000 FEET OEPTH
1000 1200 UOO 1*00
-------
cr>
i
CflCME LB NJUORE P80VE FT COLLINS
08 COLORRDO
MISSOURI RJVER
SOUTH PL/me
21COLOOI 77777717
M 0000 fEET DEPTH
tea ?oo
TINE OfltS
CflCME Lfl ROUOBE NEBR
06 COLORflOO
.I.'SSOURJ RIVER
SOUTH
21COLOOI
J4
1968
c too
TIME OflYS
77777777
0000 TEET
OEC7H
197J
tOO 600 1000 1700 1UOO 1«00
-------
APPENDIX A - 5
Computer Plots of Hydrogen Ion Concentrations (pi!) vs. Time
at Long Term Water Quality Monitoring Stations in the South
Platte River Basin
- 97 -
-------
SOUTH PLBTTE BT SOUTH PLflTTE
08 COLOHROO
BJ530URJ RIVER
SOUTH ri.B'KC
21COL001 77777777
<4 0000 FEET OCPTH
I9W
1970
1971
1972
0 tOO 700 109 HOO 100 tOO 700 »00 tOO 1000 1100 1700 1100
TIME OflfS
SO. PLRTTE R RT LITTLETON. COLO (Bowles Avenue)
08 COLOHBDO
MISSOURI RIVER
SO PLBTTE'RIVER
2ICOOHOP 211I20U
2 0000 FEET DEPTH
1968
L
1969
1970
1971
1972
wo eoo
1000 1200
SOUTM PLBTTE RBOVE LITTLETON (Highway l<70)
00 COLORADO
HIS50UH1 HJVER
SCU'H PLBTTE
21COL001 77777777
. 0000 fEET DCPTH
1969
1970
1971
1972
0 100 ZOO tOO KOO £00 fOO 700 BOO 900 1000 1100 1200 1700 1*00
TJME OflYS
• - - - - - - Od. /
SO. PLBTTE R RT ENGLEHOOB, COLO (Dartmouth Ave.)
08 COLORHDO
MISSOURI RIVER
SO PLflTTE HIVEH
2IC03HDP • 2111201)
2 0000 FEET DEPTH
1972
too 1100
(100 BOO 1000 IfOO UCO 1000 IIOO 7000
-------
SO. PLBTTE R BT DENVER. COLO (Alemeii» Ave.)
08 CO'.OHBDO
MISSOURI RIVER ''
SO PLBTTE, RIVER
JiCOOriOP JI11JOU
2 0000 FEET DEPTH
1967
1968
1967
1970
1971
1972
TIM
too «oo BOO eoo IOQO izi
DATS
1100 l»00 l>00 2000
Sf.iVXI Sl/CR HRiI/:
-;M PLIII' si/ia HI.JIN
.••:'•:.•:? 3n: -i
1967
1968
1969
/;i
'.".'< /L
1970
RK
1971
1972
SO. PLRTTE R BT DENVER. COLO <19th Street)
08 CCLOSaCO
' MISSOURI RIVER
SO PLflTTE RIVER
21COOHGP ZltlZIV
2 0000 FEET DEPTH
I
1968
1969
1970
1971
1972
»co ebo »oa iboo izoo liioo ISM laoo
TIME OBTS
SOUTH PlflTTS PT MENOERSOU
08 COLORADO
HlSSOUni RIVER
SOUTH riflTTE
S1C3L001 77777777
H 0000 FEET DEPTH
1968
1969
1970
1971
1972
"00 S03
-------
SOUTH PUBTTE NEBR KERSEY
08 COL8HBOO
MISSOURI RIVER
SOUTH PLBTTE
21COL001 77777777
J4 0000 FEET DEPTH
SOUTH PLBTTE BT 8BIZBC
08 COLOflflDC.
HJSSOUni HJVER
SOUTH PUBTTE
21COLOOI 77777777
' 0000 FEET DEPTH
o
o
1968
1969
1970
1971
1972
1968
1969
1970
1971.
197Z
t too
TIME OBTS
o . :oo
TIMF POYS
t«00 UOO
SOUTH PLBT7E NEflR JULESBURC
08 COi.ORflDO
niSSOURj' RIVER
SOUTH PLB1TE
21COLOOI 77777777
0000 f£ET DEPTH
1968
1969
1970
1971
1972
-------
BEflfl CREEK BT JEFF BRBP CO DUE
08 COLORBOO
HJSSOURJ RIVER
SOUTH PLBT1E
21COL001 77777777
0000 FEET OEPTM
1968
1969
1970
0 700 tOO *00 100
TIME OflYS
CLEBR CREEK BBOVE GOLDEN
08 COLOflflOO.
M15SOURJ RJVEH
SOUTM PLBTTE
21COU001 77777777
M 0000 FEET DEPTH
1963
1969
1970
1971
1972
1972
CnCHSir CB n~ DENVER. CC',0
c
o^-ir1 ret:
1967
1968
1969
L
,* i ''•• :
'^~ \ ' ''i\J
'/4t'V
1970
''kit
' • ' i
f ' •
1971
i'
A
T
*
1972
"•--I
ClEflfl CREEK NEBR BOUTM
08 CCLORfiHO
nissouni RIVER
SOUTH PlflTTE
2ICOL001 ' 77777777
COOP FEET OEP7M
1968
1969
1970
1971
1972
903 100
10-10 1)00 11PC
-------
o
ro
57 VRB1H 8ELOM LONGHON7
08 COLORADO
MISSOURI RIVER
SOUTH riflm
2IC01001 77777777
0000 FEE7 OEP7H
1969
1970
1971
1972
0 100 100 300 • 1.00 500
TIME OflYS
BOULDER Cn. ftl BLOR UELO CO LINE
oa coLonflsa
MISSOURI BJVEfl
SOUTH PLflTTE
2ICOL001 77777777
M 0000 FEET OEP7M
1966
1970
RK
k. 5/28.0/11
1971
1972
57. VflSJN NEfld KOU7M
08 CGLCHSDO
Mjsscua; RIVER
SOUTH TLflTTE
21COL001
77777777
COCO fEE7
1968
1969
1970
1971
1972
Tlr.E OflYS
9IC 7HOMPSON NEPR MOU7M
08 COLORHOO'
nlSSOURI RIVCR
SOUTH PLBT7E
21CDLOOI ' 77777777
M 0000 TEE7
OEP7j1_
1968
1969
1970
1971
1972
-------
CACHE LR POUOHE B88VC FT COLLINS
08 COLORflOO
MISSOURI RIVER
SOUTH PL/THE
21COL001 71177777
0000 FEET DEPTH
o
CO
1968
1969
1970
1971
1972
CBCHE Lfl "POUDflE N£BR CREELET
08 COLOPROC
nISSCUfll RIVER
SOUTH PLPTTE
eiCOLOOl 77777777
Jt 0000 FEET DEPTH
1968.
1969
1970
WO.7/0.1
197t
1972
0 YOO
TIKE OflTS
0 190
TIME OflTfS
«00 «00 *04 1000
-------
APPENDIX A - 6
Computer Plots.of Temperature vs. Time at Long Term Water
Quality Monitoring Stations in the South Platte River Basin
- 104 -
-------
o
(Jl
SOUTH PLSTTE ST SOUTH PLflTTE
08 COLORflOO'
nissouflj nivcn
SOUTH PLflTTE
21COLOOI 71777777
If 0000 FEET OEPTH
SOUTH PLBTTE S80VE LITTLETON (mshw.y 1.70)
08 COLORflOO
MISSOUBJ RIVIB
SOUTH PLflTTE
21COLOOI 77777777
0000_fEE7 DEPTH
0 100 too 700 too 500 MO 700
TIKE OPTS
900 1000 1100 1700 1100 11CO
SOUTH fLflTTE B BT 60MLES RVENUE
08 COLORflOO
MISSOURI B1VER BflSIN
SOUTH PLflTTE MV£R 8BSIN
21COOHOP 2I1120U
2 0000 FEET OEPTH
1970
1972
TIME OflTS
SOUTH PLfllTE B BT DARTMOUTH BVE
08 COIORROO
MISSOURI RIVER 8SSIN
SOUTH PLflTTE BJVEB 6HSIN
21COOHOP 2UI20M
3 • 0000 TEET OEPTH
1970
1972
-------
SOUTH PIBT1E R B7 fllflHEOfl flVENUE
08 COLORflOO
MISSOURI RIVCR BBSIN
SOUTH PLB77E RIVER BBSIN
21COOHOP 21U20H
2 0000 fEET OEP7H
o
CTi
1970
1972
onrs
SO PlflTU n « FP.flNKLIN 57 BRIDGE
08 COLOBROO.
njssounj RIVER BBSIN
SOUTH PLflTTE RJVER BflSIN
21COOMOP 21 I 1201
2 0000 TEET OtPTH
1970
SOUTH PLSHE R o 1S7H 57 BRIDGE
00 COlORflOO
nissouni RIVCR BASIN
SOU7H PLB77E RJVER 8flSI«
21COOHOP 211120U
2 0000 FEC7 0
1972
o too too )oa iioo soo
TIME OflYS
SOUTH FLB77E B7 HENDERSON
08 COLORflOO
MISSOUP.I RiVtR
SOUTH PLB7TE
21COL001 71777777
JJ 0000 FEET OEP7H
1963
1972
-------
I
K-*
O
SOUTH PLflTTE MEPR KEBSET
08 COLQRflOO.
MISSOURI RJVER
SOUTH PIBTTE
21COL001 77777777
II 0000 FEET DEPTH
5CUTM PLH7TE. BT SflllflC
06 COLCaPOC
HISSOUBJ BIVER
SOUTH PLBTTE
21COIOCI 77777777
H 0000 FEET DEPTH
1972
zoo
nave
too - too BOO looo tzo0 uoo tioo
SOUTH PLHTTt NEBrt JULESBUflC
08 COLOnflOO
HISSOURJ RIVER
SOUTH FLfllTE
21COL001 77777717
J) 0000 fEET DEP7M
17CO 1*00 1*00
-------
o
oo
8EPR CREEK ST JEFF flfldr CO UNE
08 CCLCRPOO
nJSSOUR! RIVER
SOUTH PI.P77E
21COL001 77771777
M 0000 FEET DEPTH
too too 100 noo SOD tea 100 loo too 1000 1100 1:00 1100 tuoo
CLEflR CREEK RBOVE COLOEN
OB CCLORflOO
MISSOURI RIVER
SOUTH PLPTTE
ZICO'.OOI 77777777
0000 FEET OCP7M
CHERflT CR P^ DENVER. COLO
OS COLOflWS
r.JSSOU.^1 RIVER
SO P!.flT7E RIVER
21COOMOP 2I1!20'J
2 0000 FEET
X
OEPTM
1970
1972
TIME DfllfS
CLEflR CREEK NEOR HOU7M
08 COLORHOO
MJSSCUfU RIVER
SOUTH PLflTIE
21COL001 ' 77777777
0000 FEET OiPTH
t>68
1972
-------
o
IO
57 VflflJM 8ELOW LONG.10N7
08 CCLORflOO
MISSOURI RIVER
SOUTH plBTTE
21COL001 77777771
ji OODO rm DEPTH
1969
1972
o too zao 100 400 SM too "700 too BOO 1000 uoo
TIME OflYS
80ULOEB Cfl. f-l 8LOR WELD CO LINE
08 COLCflflOO
MISSOURI BIVEB
SOUTH PLBTTE
Z1COLOOI 77777777
M 0000 FEET DEPTH
1966
1972
ST. VRflJN NEflH
08 COLOR/160
MJSSOUR) HJVEfl
SOUTH PLBTTt
21COL001
77777777
0003 T£E7 DEPTH
BJC •;HO,".°SON NESP. MOUTH
08 COLORf!00
MIS50URJ RIVER
SOUTH fLPTTE
21COLOOI ' 77777777
I) 0000 FEET DEPTH
too
CflfS
-------
o
I
CSCHt tB POUORE S80VE fT COLLINS
09 COL08SOO
MISSOURI R/VER
SOUTH PLB7TE
21COLOOI 77777777
W • 0000 F££7 OtPTH
1968
0' >og
7JHE OflTS
1972
IOM 1T00 UOO 1IM
CRCME LB POUOUE NEBR CREELET
08 C0l0flfl30
nissouni RJVER
SOUTH rUflTTE
21COL001 77777777
>4 0000 FEET OEP7M
UJ ^
19M
0 ZOO
TIME OBITS
1972
moo UM
-------
APPENDIX A - 7
Computer Plots of Nutrient Concentrations vs. Time at Long Term
Water Quality Monitoring Stations in the Main Stem South Platte
River
- Ill -
-------
SOUTH PIS7TE «T SOUTH
08 COUORflOO
Hissoimj nivcn
SOUTH PlflTTE
mflLOOl 7777">777
0000 FECT OEPTH
PO
«o 000 1000 1100 isco
TJHE OfltS
SCUTH PISTTE flT HEHOERSCN
08 COLORPbo
MISSOURI nmn
SOUTH PLflTTE
21COL001 77777777
14 0000 fEET DEPTH
SOUTH PLflTTE A80VE UTUETOM (Highway (.70)
08 COLORflOO
nissouni 'RIVER
SOUTH PLPTTE
2ICOL001 77777777
0008 fEET DEPTH
o w
100 200
TJHE OflTTS
•00 100 693 aM 1000 1100 1200
looo I'oo
-------
SOUTH PlflTTE NEflR KERStT
08 COLOBPOO •
flJSSOURJ RJVER
SOUTH PIRTTE
21C8i.001 77777777
J< 0000 fill OEPIH
0 100 200 100 103
line DAYS
1972
SOUTH PlflTTE Htm JULES8UBC
06 COLORfiQO
MISSaURJ RJVER
SOUTH PLBTTE
21COL001 77777777
V 0000 FEET DEPTH
-x. ^
1972
ico 200 loo MOO ioo no 100 eoo
C OfltS
BOO looo 1100 uoa i«o mo*
-------
P7 SOOTH nsnt
08 COLORflOO
HI ssou'sr RIVER
SOUTH PI.ST7E
21COL001 77777777
>J 0000 FEET OEP7H
? :
SOU1M PIOT7E flSDVC
08 COLORflQO
HJSSOUBJ RIVER
SOU1H PUflTTE
21COL001
_M
(Highway 470)
77777777
oooo TEET
OEP7H
1970
1971
1972
0 100 700 100 100 500 «00 100 «00 *00 1000 1100 1700
7JHE OfllfS
7JHE OR13
SOUTH PLflTTE m HEHOERSON
OS COLOBfldo
MJS50URJ RJVER
SOUTH PlfllTE
21COL001 77777777
0000 FEE7 OCPTll
-------
en •
i
SOUTH n.«m NESR
08 COLORADO
nissouflJ fuvtn
SOUTH PlflTTE
21COIOOI
M
77777717
0000 FEtT
1972
SOU1H PlfllJE HERB JULES8URG
08 COLORfiCO
flJSSOURJ RJVER
SOUTH PLflTTE
21COU001 77777777
M 0000 TEET
1972
1JHE OflfS
0 109 290 1«9 100 500 100 100 ^90 400 1000 1100 1790 1?6» 1*100
TIME Oflirs
-------
SOUTH PlflTTE »T SOUTH PLflTTE
08 COLORADO
HJSSOURJ BJVEB
SOUTH PLBTTE
21COUOOI 77777777
Jl 0000 fCET DEPTH
0 S
1970
1971
1971
SOUTH PUflTTE flBOVE LJT71C70N (Hlghwy I|70)
03 COLORADO
r.jsseuRj
souin
Z1COL001 77717777
0000 FEET DEPTH
0 tCO 200 100 1400 SCO 100 100 «00 000 1000 1100 1700
Tint OPTfS
SOUTH PLflTTE flT HEHOER5CN
08 COLORR00
HJSSOUflJ RJVEfl
SOUTH PlflTTE
21COL001 77777777
H 0000 FEET OEPTH
tOO 700 100 1100 SOO 100 100 «00 909 tOOO \IOO 1200
1972
-------
SOUTH rlflTT£ Ntflfl KERSEY
06 COLORADO
flJSSOURJ HJVEn
SOUTH PlflTTE
Z1COL001 77777717
0000 fEET OEPTM
1972
SOUTH PLflTTE NEflS JULESBURC
08 COLOflflOa
MJSSOU8J RIVER
SOUTH PLflTTE
JKCLOOi 77777777
0000 FEET DEPTH
790
n«TS
«|QO 409 *00 1000 1700
100 700 100 HOO 500 «e9 100 600 900 1000 1100 1700 1100 11100
-------
TECHNICAL REPORT DATA
(Please read Instructions on the reverse before completing)
1. REPORT NO.
EPA-908/2-74-002
3. RECIPIENT'S ACCESSION>NO.
4. TITLE AND SUBTITLE
Summary Report on the Long Term Water Quality of the
South PLatte River Basin 1966-1972
5. REPORT DATE
August 1974 - Preparation
6. PERFORMING ORGANIZATION CODE
7. AUTHOR(S)
John E. Hardaway and Robert 1. Fox
8. PERFORMING ORGANIZATION REPORT NO.
S&A/TIB-19
9. PERFORMING ORG'\NIZATION NAME AND ADDRESS
10. PROGRAM ELEMENT NO.
Technical Investigations Branch
Surveillance & Analysis Division
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region VIII
Denver, Colorado 80203
11. CONTRACT/GRANT NO.
12. SPONSORING AGENCY NAME AND ADDRESS
13. TYPE OF REPORT AND PERIOD COVERED
Summary 1966-1972
14. SPONSORING AGENCY CODE
15. SUPPLEMENTARY NOTES
16. ABSTRACT
An analysis of water quality data from twenty-one water quality surveillance stations
located in the South Platte River Basin of Colorado was conducted. The data collected
from 1968 through 1972 indicate significant deterioration of surface water quality in
the Denver Metropolitan Area. Total and Fecal Coliform concentrations have increased
by two to three orders of magnitude in recent years along with increased BODs concen-
trations, and Dissolved Oxygen concentrations have sometimes dropped below acceptable
limits (<5 mg/1). The analysis indicates a need to improve water quality with respect
to these parameters in order to achieve proposed water quality objectives. A monitor-
ing system is proposed to improve data reliability and provide information on pre-
viously undefined variables.
KEY WORDS AND DOCUMENT ANALYSIS
DESCRIPTORS
b.IDENTIFIERS/OPEN ENDED TERMS C. COSATI Field/Group
Standards, Objectives, Parameters, Moni-
toring, Wastewater Discharges, Data Vari-
ability, Analysis Techniques
Surface Water Quality,
Surveillance Stations,
South Platte River
3. DISTRIBUTION STATEMENT
Release to the Public
19. SECURITY CLASS (ThisReport)
Unclassified
21. NO. OF PAGES
117
20. SECURITY CLASS (Thispage)
Unclassified
22. PRICE
EPA Form 2220-1 (9-73)
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PAGE NOT
AVAILABLE
DIGITALLY
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