EPA-440/9-76-024
NATIONAL
WATER
QUALITY
INVENTORY
1976 Report
to Congress
iFFICE OF WATER PLANNING AND STANDARDS
WASHINGTON,DC. 20460
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This report was prepared pursuant to
Section 305(b) of PL 92-500, which states:
"(b) (1) Each State shall prepare and submit to the Administrator by
January 1, 1975, and shall bring up to date each year thereafter, a report
which shall include—
"(A) a description of the water quality of all navigable waters in
such State during the preceding year, with appropriate supplemental
descriptions as shall be required to take into account seasonal, tidal,
and other variations, correlated with the quality of water required by
the objective of this Act (as identified by the Administrator pursuant to
criteria published under section 304(a) of this Act) and the water qual-
ity described in subparagraph (B) of this paragraph;
"(B) an analysis of the extent to which all navigable waters of such
State provide for the protection and propagation of a balanced popula-
tion of shellfish, fish, and wildlife, and allow recreational activities in
and on the water;
"(C) an analysis of the extent to which the elimination of the dis-
charge of pollutants and a level of water quality which provides for the
protection and propagation of a balanced population of shellfish, fish,
and wildlife and allows recreational activities in and on the water, have
been or will be achieved by the requirements of this Act, together with
recommendations as to additional action necessary to achieve such ob-
jectives and for what waters such additional action is necessary;
"(D) an estimate of (i) the environmental impact, (ii) the economic
and social costs necessary to achieve the objective of this Act in such
State, (iii) the economic and social benefits of such achievement, and
(iv) an estimate of the date of such achievement; and
"(E) a description of the nature and extent of nonpoint sources of
pollutants, and recommendations as to the programs which must be
undertaken to control each category of such sources, including an esti-
mate of the cost of implementing such programs.
"(2) The Administrator shall transmit such State reports, together with
an analysis thereof, to Congress on or before October 1, 1975, and annu-
ally thereafter.
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I522ZJ UNITED STATES ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY
%PRO^ WASHINGTON, D.C. 20460
THE ADMINISTRATOR
June 27, 1977
Dear Mr. President:
Dear Mr. Speaker:
I am transmitting to the Congress the National Water Quality Inventory Report for 1976, as required by
Section 305(b) of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act Amendments of 1972 (Public Law 92-500). It is the third in
a series of reports prepared by the EPA in cooperation with the States and other Federal agencies. It includes, for the
second time, reports from the States and other jurisdictions of the United States. Reports from 46 of the 50 States and
from five of the six other jurisdictions have been received and are being transmitted.
I am particularly concerned because the State reports this year provide fyrther evidence that toxic materials are a
very serious problem in the Nation's waters. The reports place more emphasis than previous ones on the problems
associated with toxic pollutants such as heavy metals, pesticides, and industrial chemicals. This increased emphasis
reflects greater awareness of the extent to which these substances are found in the environment. Despite the fact that
much more information is required before a complete national assessment of the problem can be performed, the data
which are available indicate that control measures for toxic pollutants are urgently needed. The States, the EPA, and
the National Commission on Water Quality all agree on this point.
A key element of our program for controlling toxic substances is to revise our regulations defining the best available
control technology economically achievable (BAT) specifically to control toxic materials. For this reason, we believe
that BAT limitations regarding toxics should be established and implemented as soon as possible, but not later than
1983. More stringent controls will be applied only where the technology-based standards are insufficient to protect
human health or aquatic life or to meet other water quality standards.
The concern over toxic materials should not overshadow the many successes achieved in cleaning up difficult
pollution problems. Our report presents profiles of 17 areas across the country where pollution control programs have
succeeded in reestablishing significant beneficial water uses. These are only a sample of the many successes which have
been reported to us. In addition, the report points out that many States expect further significant improvements from
the control programs currently being implemented.
Sincerely yours.
ttlLj
-**•
Douglas M. Costle
Honorable Walter F. Mondale
President of the Senate
Washington, D.C. 20510
Honorable Thomas P. O'Neill, Jr.
Speaker of the House of Representatives
Washington, D.C. 20515
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Acknowledgment
The major portion of this report is based on submissions from 45 of the 50 States and from five of
the six other jurisdictions of the United States. The Environmental Protection Agency greatly
appreciates the time and effort expended by State and local agencies and by regional commissions in
preparing these reports.
The following individuals from the EPA also made significant contributions during the preparation
of this report: William Nuzzo (Region I); Harry Allen (Region II); Gerald Pollis (Region III); Al
Herndon (Region IV); Steve Dudas, John Wilson (Region V); Tom Reich (Region VI); Dale Parke
(Region VII); Patrick Godsil (Region VIII); Norman Lovelace (Region IX); William Schmidt (Region
X); and others in the EPA's regional offices; Robert An/in, Adelaide Lightner, Alexander McBride and
Mark Sweers, Monitoring and Data Support Division; Henry Vancleave, Oil and Special Materials
Control Division; and others too numerous to mention who were, nevertheless, instrumental in
contributing to the final product. Finally, the information on oil spills was collected and analyzed by
GKY & Associates.
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CONTENTS
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
ii
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY . 1
SCOPE _____ 1
SUMMARY 1
CHAPTER I: CURRENT WATER
QUALITY AND RECENT TRENDS
OVERALL EVALUATION OF CONDITIONS AND TRENDS 3
TRADITIONAL PROBLEMS-SUSPENDED SOLIDS,
OXYGEN DEPLETION, BACTERIA 3
EUTROPHICATION 9
GEOGRAPHICALLY RELATED PROBLEMS-ACID
MINE DRAINAGE, EXCESS SALINITY 9
TOXIC SUBSTANCES 10
BIOLOGICAL MONITORING 13
CHAPTER II: WATER QUALITY GOALS
AND CONTROL PROGRAMS
ESTIMATED ATTAINMENT OF THE 1983 GOALS 15
POINT SOURCE CONTROL PROGRAMS 17
NONPOINT SOURCES 18
WATER QUALITY SUCCESS STORIES-SOME
RESULTS OF THE CONTROL PROGRAMS 19
CHAPTER III: COSTS OF MEETING
THE GOALS OF THE ACT
MUNICIPAL COSTS_ 25
INDUSTRIAL COSTS . 25
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CHAPTER IV: GREAT LAKES WATEfl QUALITY
1 AKF SUPERIOR
1 AKF MICHIGAN
LAKE HURON
LAKE ERIE
1 AKF ONTARIO
CHAPTER V: ANALYSIS OF OIL SPILLS
FEDERAL SPILL PRFVFMTIOM PROGRAMS
MAGNITUDE OF ON SPILLS
TRENDS IN SPII 1 VOIUMES
TABLES
TABLE
1-1 Percpnfagp nf State Waters Mppting Standards
I-2 Estimated Annual Potential Soil Loss In Connecticut
I-3 States Reporting On Lake Eutrophication Conditions
I-4 Toxic Pollutants Reported by States
I-5 States Reporting On Biological Monitoring Programs
11-1 Percentaae of Waters Meeting 1983 Goals
1 1 1-1 Cost Estimates For Municipal Facilities Construction
III-2 State Cost Estimates For Industrial Pollution Control
I V-1 Toxic Pollutants Whose Concentrations in Fish
Tissues Exceed U.S. Food and Drug Administration Limits
V-1 Sources of Oil Spills
V-2 Spill Volume by Sources
V-3 Annual Movement. Production, and Storage
V-4 Soill Volume bv Geographical Location
30
31
32
33
34
37
37
39
4
5
9
12
13
26
27
2Q
37
41
41
IV
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FIGURES
FIGURE
1-1 States Repnrting Silviculture Problems
I-2 States Reporting Mining Problems
I-3 States Reporting Salinity Problems
IV-1 Major Problem Areas Around the Great Lakes (US Waters)
V-1 Oil Spill Volume Per Year
V-2 Rate of Oil Spilled by Sourre
APPENDIX A: STATE AND JURISDICTIONAL SUMMARIES
State of Alabama
State of Alaska
State of Arizona
State of Arkansas
State nf California
State nf Connecticut
State nf Delaware
State of F|nrirla
State of Georgia
Guam
State of Hawaii
State of Idaho
State of Illinois
State of Indiana
State of Kansas
State of Kentucky
7
8
11
31
38
40
A_Fi
A-11
A-13
A-17
A-23
A-25
A-29
A-33
A-37
A-39
A-43
A -47
A-49
A-55
A-59
A R3
A-71
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State of Maine
State of Maryland
State nf Massachusetts
State of Michigan
State of Minnesota
State of Mississippi
State of Missouri
State of Montana
State of Nebraska
Statp of Nevada
State of New Hampshire
State of New Mexico
State of New York
State of North Carolina
State of North Dakota
State of Ohio
State of Oklahoma
State of Oregon
State of Pennsylvania
Puerto Rir.o
State nf Rhode Island
State of South Carolina
State of Tennessee
State of Texas
Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands
State of Utah
A-75
A-79
A-83
A-R7
A-97
A-101
A-105
A-109
A-111
A-113
A-115
A-125
A-179
A-13R
A-14R
A-147
A-1F1R
A- 157
A 1R1
A 1RQ
A 173
A 179
A 1PH
A 1RQ
A 1Q1
A 1Q3
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State of Vermont A-199
State of Virginia A-205
Virgin Islands . A-213
State of Washington ___ A-217
State of West Virginia __^_ A-221
State of Wisconsin _^_ A-223
State of Wyoming A-231
VII
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Scope
This report, the third in the series of National Water Quality Inventory reports, was prepared jointly
by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), by 46 of the 50 States, and by five or six other
jurisdictions of the United States. The submissions from the States and other jurisdictions are being
transmitted to Congress in their entirety under separate cover. This report summarizes the State
submissions and provides a national overview of water quality. It was prepared pursuant to Section
305(b) of the 1972 Federal Water Pollution Control Act Amendments (Public Law 92-500) (see inside
front cover). ,-
Many of the 1976 State reports provided more specific and comprehensive assessments of water
quality and related programs than did last year's initial efforts. In general, however, the primary
emphasis was on topics which were not thoroughly covered in the 1975 reports. Several States which
presented thorough analyses last year Submitted only brief updates for their 1976 reports. Therefore,
readers who wish to review the individual State reports should obtain Copies of both the 1975 and
1976 reports.
The topics which received the greatest amount of additional coverage this year are toxic substances,
quantitative assessments of the percentage of waters currently meeting the goals of the Act and the
percentage expected to meet those gbals by 1983, and analyses of the effectiveness of current pollu-
tion control programs.
The State information was supplemented by two additional studies:
• An analysis of wafer quality conditions in the Great Lakes; and,
• An analysis of data on oil spills.
Summary
In their discussions of current water quality and recent trends the States, for the most part, reiterate
the conclusions found in the 1974 and 1975 National Water Quality Inventory reports. Excessive
bacteria levels which limit recreational uses of water are the most widely reported problem, particular-
ly near urban areas, with high nutrient (phosphorus and nitrogen) concentrations also reported
throughout many areas. Low dissolved oxygen levels are a problem primarily in smaller streams
receiving large volumes of wastes.
Improvements in bacteria and dissolved oxygen levels are being reported in many areas as municipal
and industrial treatment plants are being installed or upgraded. Reduced phosphorus loads are also
being reported, particularly in the Great Lakes area, following the implementation of phosphate
detergent bans and/or phosphorus removal at sewage treatment plants.
Toxic Pollutants
In their 1976 reports, the States place a much greater emphasis on the problem of toxic pollutants,
particularly heavy metals, pesticides, and industrial chemicals. This increased emphasis is due primarily
to recent evidence indicating how widespread the problems with these substances have become.
However, the States noted that there are still many areas where there is little or no information
available on toxic pollutant levels.
Problems with heavy metal contamination were reported by 35 States. The principal sources of
heavy metals include industrial discharges, urban runoff, erosion of soils rich in metals, and rock
deposits containing metals which dissolve in the water. Of these sources, industrial discharges and
urban runoff have the greatest effects on water quality in most areas except for those regions where
mining activity is significant.
Eighteen States across the country reported problems with pesticides in the water, in sediments, or
in fish tissues. However, some States did describe significant improvements following the implementa-
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tion of controls on certain pesticides. For example, Michigan reports that DDT residues in fish were
reduced by over 50 percent after controls were implemented.
Pollution from toxic industrial chemicals was reported by 16 States, including all of the Great Lakes
States. Fish tissues containing polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB) residues above the Food and Drug
Administration tolerance level were found in three of the Great Lakes. The most commonly reported
chemicals were phenols, RGB's, and cyanide.
Attainment of Water Quality Goals
Under PL 92-500, the national goal to be achieved by July 1, 1983, wherever attainable, is "water
quality which provides for the protection and propagation of fish, shellfish, and wildlife, and provides
for recreation in and on the water." This year, 14 States compared current conditions relative to the
goal with the conditions they projected for 1983. While the data presented do not provide an adequate
basis for deriving a composite nationwide quantitative assessment, they do indicate that most of the
14 States expect significant improvements by 1983, and that, in terms of traditional pollutants, well
over 90 percent of their waters are projected to achieve the goals of the Act at most times. These
estimates, however, are not able to account for potential problems from toxic pollutants which may
be discovered when more monitoring data become available.
Evaluation of Control Programs
Many of the States discuss the effectiveness of the control programs mandated by PL 92-500, both
with regard to the legislation itself and to the EPA s implementation of the Act. Much of this
discussion was precipitated by the recent report and recommendations of the National Commission on
Water Quality (NCWQ).
The States, the EPA, and the NCWQ all agree that there should be a fixed schedule for future
federal funding of municipal sewage treatment facilities. The NCWQ recommended between $5 billion
and $10 billion per year for five to ten years. State recommendations also fall within those ranges. The
States, the EPA, and the NCWQ also agree that the States should have greater responsibility for
managing the construction grants program
There is considerably less agreement concerning future controls on industrial discharges. The NCWQ
recommended that case-by-case extensions or exemptions be allowed from the 1977 level (BPT)
treatment requirements of the Act and that the 1983 level (BAT) treatment requirements be post-
poned for five to ten years. The States which discuss the issue generally do not agree with the proposal
to allow exemptions from BPT, although a few do feel that extensions will be necessary in some cases.
Most of them believe that a review of BAT costs and benefits should be done before the requirements
are implemented. The EPA agrees with the States that exemptions from BPT are not warranted.
However, in light of the current agency emphasis on BAT as a means of controlling toxic pollutants
(as reflected in a recent court settlement), the Agency feels that BAT limitations regarding toxics
should be established and implemented as soon as possible, but not later than 1983. The EPA agrees
that BAT required should be reviewed for pollutants other than toxics (see Chapter 11 for a more com-
plete discussion of this issue).
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CHAPTER I
CURRENT WATER QUALITY
AND RECENT TRENDS
The 1975 State report provided a large vol-
ume of useful water quality information, par-
ticularly with regard to conditions and trends
for the traditional pollution indicators such as
dissolved oxygen and turbidity. However, as ini-
tial efforts, there were inevitable gaps in the in-
formation provided, in particular concerning the
degree of presence of toxic substances and the
relationships between reported water quality
and the uses which those waters will support.
This year's reports go a long way toward filling
those two gaps.
Overall Evaluation of
Conditions and Trends
The 1976 reports generally support and rein-
force the conclusions that the States reached
last year; namely that many areas of the country
are showing notable improvement with regard to
those parameters which have been the focus of
pollution control efforts, despite the fact that
severe problems do remain. Chapter II presents a
sample of areas across the country where pollu-
tion abatement has been successful in signifi-
cantly upgrading water quality conditions. These
examples are all described in the 1975 or 1976
State reports.
Twenty-one States presented Statewide eval-
uations of water quality relative to either State
standards, the 1983 goals of the Act, or both
(Table 1-1). These States did not all use the same
basis for evaluating compliance with water qual-
ity standards, and their results reflect the differ-
ent approaches taken.
The five States which assessed the quality of
total stream mileage all reported 90 percent or
more to be meeting State standards or the goals
of the Act (Table 1-1). The results from the eight
States which evaluated the mileage of only ma-
jor streams are not as optimistic (Table 1-1),
especially considering that major streams are
generally those with the most potential bene-
ficial uses. Vermont shows only 62 percent of
the major stream miles meeting goals as com-
pared to 92 percent of the total stream miles,
and the difference for Connecticut is even
greater, 51 percent as compared to 93 percent.
Georgia reports that many of the streams not
meeting criteria are the major ones.
The most common method of assessing water
quality was to determine the percentage of
streams or stream segments which met stan-
dards. For the eleven States using this approach,
the number of waterbodies assessed varied from
23 segments in Delaware to 1,000 streams in
Mississippi. The use of stream segments may
tend to overstate problems or otherwise obscure
the situation because only a small portion of a
segment may be violating goals or standards.
Thus, while Virginia reports that 92 percent of
its total stream miles currently meet the goals of
the Act, only 41 percent of the segments meet
those goals.
The data in Table 1-1 do not provide a suffi-
cient basis for developing a composite nation-
wide assessment of water quality relative to
either State standards or the 1983 goals of
PL 92-500. However, it is apparent that many of
the major streams in both the industrial areas
such as New England and, to a lesser extent, the
agricultural or rural areas such as Nebraska or
Idaho currently are not meeting the goals of
PL 92-500.
Traditional Problems —
Suspended Solids, Oxygen
Depletion, Bacteria
The 1976 State reports place comparatively
less emphasis than the 1975 reports on the most
commonly measured and reported pollution
problems, suspended solids (which are common-
ly reported as turbidity), oxygen depletion, and
bacteria. Nevertheless, these problems are still
widely reported and described.
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TABLE 1-1
PERCENTAGE OF STATE WATERS MEETING STANDARDS
1983 goals State standards
Based on total stream miles
Connecticut (8,394 miles)
Georgia (20,000 miles)
North Carolina (39,974 miles)
Vermont (4,936 miles)
Virginia (27,240 miles)
Based on major stream miles
Connecticut (497 miles)
Maine (1,907 miles)
Massachusetts (1,462 miles)
New Hampshire (1,280 miles)
Pennsylvania (14,163 miles)
Rhode Island (329 miles)
South Carolina (1,642 miles)
Vermont (1,103 miles)
Wisconsin (3,360 miles)
Based on streams or segments
California (94 major rivers)
Delaware (23 segments)
Idaho (220 segments)
Kansas (62 segments)
Minnesota (27 major rivers)
Mississippi (1,000 streams)
Nebraska (not specified)
Tennessee (642 segments)
Texas (297 segments)
Virginia (148 segments)
93
90
92
92
51
62
26
54
64
75
62
91
78
48
40-45
78
92
70
47
67
41
93
94
92
51
90
31
55
79
92
64
89
47
Suspended Solids
High levels of suspended solids can be harmful
to aquatic life by reducing light penetration
required for plant growth and by covering bot-
tom organisms and breeding areas with sedi-
ment. In addition, they can reduce the recrea-
tional value of waters by making them unsuit-
able for swimming or by lowering their aesthetic
appeal. Furthermore, certain industrial and agri-
cultural water uses can be adversely affected by
excess suspended solids levels.
The major source of suspended solids is ero-
sion. Natural erosion can be greatly aggravated
by human activities, such as agriculture, silvicul-
ture, mining, urban runoff, and construction.
Almost every State mentions at least some prob-
lems due to erosion from agricultural lands,
although widespread problems are noted primar-
ily in the Midwest and West Coast States. Many
States are implementing some form of erosion
control program, principally with the assistance
of the U.S. Department of Agriculture Soil Con-
servation Service, and the effect these programs
can have is very significant. Data from the Con-
necticut report shows that the erosion rate from
adequately managed cropland is only about one
fourth of the erosion rate for inadequately man-
aged cropland (Table I-2).
Increased runoff from harvested areas and
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TABLE 1-2
ESTIMATED ANNUAL POTENTIAL SOIL LOSS IN CONNECTICUT
Land use activity
Acres
Erosion Rate
(tons/acre/year)
Total Soil Loss
(tons/year)
Natural Land
Woodland
Streambanks
Agriculture
Active Cropland
Adequately managed
Inadequately managed
Lumbering
Construction
Residential
Non-residential
Urban
Transportation
Construction
Roadbanks (after construction)
Sanding
Town roads,
deposited
Town roads,
swept and cleaned
State highways,
deposited
State highways,
swept and cleaned
1,912,271* .11*
12,542' 75.352
46,129 2.73*
116,871 10.77*
10,000 N.A.
6,954 185.2
3,264 185.2
512,500 .86*
N.A. N.A.
39,099' 6.92
Sanding, Statewide
210,349*
945,039*
125,932
1,258,700
N.A.
1,287,880
604,492
37,000
242,183
614,000
-257,000
Net 356,500
316,250
-168,750
Net 147,500
Net 504,000
'Information from U.S. Soil Conservation Study.
1. Units are bank miles (SCS figures).
2. Units are in tons/bank miles/year (SCS figures).
N.A. = figures are not available.
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transport roads are the major problems associ-
ated with silvicultural activities, which are pri-
marily located in the southern and far western
areas of the country (Figure 1-1). Large-scale
mining activities which contribute significant
loadings from disposal piles and spoil banks are
found in several areas across the country, with
the major concentrations being near the Appala-
chian and Rocky mountains (Figure I-2). States
other than those indicated in Figures 1-1 and I-2
do report problems associated with silviculture
and mining, but the problems are not generally
severe or widespread.
Urban runoff and construction activities con-
tribute large loadings of suspended solids in
localized areas across the country. Construction
activities in particular cause very high erosion
rates. For example, Connecticut reports that the
erosion rate for construction areas is many times
higher than for other types of areas (Table I-2).
Large point source discharges from certain
industries and from municipal plants with inade-
quate treatment can also cause significant
increases in suspended solids, especially in
streams where the natural background levels are
low. This situation is most prevalent in the New
England area, although improvements are occur-
ring.
Oxygen Depletion
Oxygen depletion caused by oxygen-
demanding organic loads can reduce dissolved
oxygen to levels below the concentrations neces-
sary to support aquatic life. In extreme cases
dissolved oxygen depletion can result in anaero-
bic conditions with extensive fish kills and sev-
ere odor problems.
Low dissolved oxygen levels are primarily a
problem where large municipal or industrial
organic waste loads are discharged into smaller
streams which are unable to assimilate these
wastes. Wastes from pulp and paper mills have
historically been a major contributor to dis-
solved oxygen problems, although the imple-
mentation of effective control measures has
greatly reduced the problems from this, industry.
Maine, New Hampshire, Georgia, Oregon, Wash-
ington, and Alaska are among the States report-
ing large improvements in dissolved oxygen lev-
els following the installation of treatment plants
at pulp and paper mills.
Urban runoff also contributes significant
oxygen-demanding loads, although these loads
are not as common a problem in reducing dis-
solved oxygen levels since they usually occur at
higher flows. Natural conditions leading to dis-
solved oxygen depletion include the high organ-
ic loads and low flows in swamp areas, and the
low flows and decreased potential for reaeration
caused by winter ice cover in northern streams.
Bacteria
The most widely reported water pollution
problem is excess concentrations of fecal coli-
form bacteria, which are indicators of harmful
pathogens which make waters unsafe for human
contact recreation. For example, Illinois reports
that the criteria for primary contact recreation
was exceeded at least once at 98 percent of its
sampling stations which measured bacteria
levels. The Kansas report points out that criteria
are exceeded between 50 percent and 90 percent
of the time in most of its streams.
The sources of these bacteria include inade-
quately treated municipal effluents, combined
sewer overflows, urban stormwater, feedlot run-
off, runoff from grazing lands, inadequately
installed private treatment systems (primarily
septic tanks), and natural sources such as migrat-
ing water fowl which congregate in large num-
bers at certain streams or lakes. Some of these
sources such as municipal plants, inadequate pri-
vate systems, and feedlots can be controlled,
although often at a significant cost. Others are
much more difficult to control. The major
sources of bacterial contamination vary with
land use and geographical location; however, for
most parts of the country, urban areas are the
primary problem. The extent to which urban
point sources as opposed to nonpoint sources
are the major contributors of excess bacteria was
not assessed for most areas of the country.
It should be noted that several States, includ-
ing Alabama, Kansas, Nebraska, and New Mexi-
co believe that many of their rivers are not
suited for swimming even in their natural states
because of channel geometries, high flow rates,
high natural turbidity, or high background levels
of bacteria. For these rivers, the States point out
that exceeding the criteria levels for fecal coli-
form bacteria does not preclude any existing or
potential beneficial uses of those waters.
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FIGURE 1-1
STATES REPORTING SILVICULTURE PROBLEMS
SOURCE: STATE 305(b)
SUBMISSIONS
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00
SOURCE: STATE 305{b)
SUBMISSIONS
FIGURE 1-2
STATES REPORTING MINING PROBLEMS
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Eutrophication
The 1976 State reports place much greater
emphasis and contain much more information
on the magnitude of problems caused by high
levels of phosphorus and nitrogen, which are the
primary plant nutrients that control productiv-
ity. Excess nutrient levels accelerate the eutro-
phication or aging process of lakes and reservoirs
by stimulating the growth of algae and other
aquatic plants. In advanced stages, eutrophica-
tion can lead to dissolved oxygen depletion and
odor problems from decomposing algae and
other plants.
Several States, including Vermont, Maryland,
and Florida report that high nutrient levels are
their most serious water quality problem. In
addition, 16 States provided special sections
describing the trophic conditions of lakes and
reservoirs within their boundaries (Table I-3).
TABLE I-3
STATES REPORTING ON
LAKE EUTROPHICATION CONDITIONS
Alabama
Arizona
Delaware
Georgia
Kentucky
Maine
Michigan
Minnesota
Mississippi
New Hampshire
New Mexico
New York
Ohio
Vermont
Washington
Wisconsin
Both phosphorus and nitrogen are found in
municipal and industrial discharges and in urban
and rural runoff, particularly runoff containing
fertilizers. However, phosphorus is generally the
nutrient which needs to be controlled to reduce
eutrophication problems, and the ratio of phos-
phorus to nitrogen is much higher in sewage
treatment plant effluents than in most runoff.
Therefore, controlling phosphorus discharges
from sewage treatment plant effluents is expec-
ted to have significant benefits in reducing
eutrophication problems in heavily populated
regions.
For this reason, several States have imple-
mented or are considering bans on detergents
containing phosphates above a certain level.
Indiana reports that sewage treatment plant
phosphorus loads were reduced by 56 percent
and total stream loadings by 25 percent to 30
percent following the implementation of a State-
wide ban on phosphate detergents. Minnesota
and Vermont estimate that similar reductions
would occur with a phosphate ban in effect,
although the fact that the phosphate content of
detergents has been declining over the last few
years would indicate that the improvements
from a ban might not be as great as in the past.
Michigan, New York, and Ohio also report signi-
ficantly lower phosphorus levels following State
or local bans or limitations on phosphate deter-
gents.
Geographically Related
Problems — Acid Mine
Drainage, Excess Salinity
Certain types of water pollution problems are
related to factors which vary with geographical
location. These problems generally result from a
combination of natural background conditions
and human activities. Two of the most serious of
these problems are acid mine drainage and
excess salinity.
Acid mine drainage occurs when mining oper-
ations expose sulfur-bearing rock to air and
water, the water coming either from runoff or
from underground sources. The exposed miner-
als containing sulfur combine with the air and
water to form sulfuric acid, which then drains
into nearby streams where it seriously damages
all forms of aquatic life. The areas most affec-
ted are those where extensive coal mining opera-
tions have occurred, principally the Appalachian
Mountain States, Illinois, and several of the
Rocky Mountain States. As an indication of how
severe this problem can be, Pennsylvania reports
that: "Abandoned mine drainage, either by itself
or in combination with other pollution sources,
is responsible for 75 percent (2,240 miles) of the
steam miles degraded (in the State)."
A second geographically-related form of pol-
lution is excess salinity. High levels of dissolved
minerals can make water unfit for human con-
sumption, irrigation, livestock watering, or other
uses. Large changes from natural salinity levels
can adversely affect aquatic life. Salinity prob-
lems are generally found in the more arid areas
-------
of the country such as the central and south-
western States. There, naturally high salinity
levels are further increased by irrigation return
flow, which often add significant amounts of
dissolved solids. In addition, several south-
western States such as Texas and Oklahoma
report that the disposal of brines used in drilling
for oil has caused severe salinity problems in cer-
tain areas, although the implementation of con-
trol measures has significantly reduced the prob-
lems in some of these areas.
Another way in which human activity can
increase salinity levels is through excessive con-
sumption of fresh waters, particularly ground-
waters, which results in the intrusion of saline
waters into fresh water areas. This problem
occurs both in coastal areas and in compara-
tively dry inland areas (Figure 1-3).
Toxic Substances
Over the past few years there has been an
increasing concern over the presence of signifi-
cant quantities of toxic substances in the
nation's waters. These substances include heavy
metals such as arsenic, cadmium, chromium,
lead, mercury, and zinc; industrial chemicals
such as cyanides, phenols, and RGB's; pesticides
such as DDT, chlordane, aldrin, and dieldrin;
and other chlorinated hydrocarbons. They can
cause death or reproductive failures in fish and
wildlife, and can be carcinogenic or cause other
severe health problems in humans. Many of
them accumulate and concentrate in the food
chain. Some, such as RGB's, are highly persis-
tent, and once released into the environment,
can remain for decades.
The increased concern with toxic substances
was reflected by the greater degree of monitor-
ing and reporting which was devoted to them for
this year's reports as compared to last year's.
Almost every State at least mentioned some
type of toxic problem, although many of them
pointed out that more monitoring data were
needed to provide an adequate assessment of the
problem of toxic pollutants.
The most commonly described toxic problem
was heavy metals (Table 1-4). Metals problems
are particularly widespread because they can
come from many different sources. The States
east of the Mississippi generally report that
excess toxic metal concentrations are due to
industrial discharges, urban stormwater run-
off, and atmospheric fallout of air pollutants. For
example, Massachusetts describes high metals
concentrations in the Blackstone, Hoosic, Ten
Mile, and Westfield Rivers which are attributed
to specific industrial dischargers. New York,
which has one of the most comprehensive
monitoring programs for toxics, reports high
concentrations of mercury and other metals in
the waters around New York City due to urban
runoff. Most other eastern States report similar
types of problems, with the primary emphasis
being on industrial discharges.
Western States, on the other hand, point to
active and abandoned mining operations as their
primary source of metals contamination. Colo-
rado, Idaho, Arizona, California, Nevada, and
South Dakota all describe this particular prob-
lem as it affects their waters. Excess metal con-
centrations also results from natural conditions.
High arsenic levels in the Yellowstone River in
Wyoming and Montana are from natural rock
formations. Other States report rock deposits
containing lead or other metals which can cause
water quality problems. The most common
natural cause of standards violations for metals,
particularly iron, is erosion of soils containing
those metals. However, if the metal remains in
suspended form the problem is usually not sev-
ere. Metals are particularly toxic to aquatic life
only when they become dissolved in the water,
as is usually the case with metals from industrial
discharges and urban runoff.
The second most widely discussed types of
toxic pollutants are pesticides. Eighteen States
representing all regions of the country report-
ed pesticide problems (Table 1-4). In the eastern
States pesticide loadings are associated with agri-
cultural runoff, whereas in the more arid wes-
tern States, irrigation return flows are a major
source of pesticide pollution. The harmful
effects of DDT and certain other pesticides to
fish, wildlife, and humans have been well docu-
mented. For this reason, DDT, aldrin, and dield-
rin have been banned for almost all uses by the
EPA. The State of Michigan, which had placed
controls on DDT prior to EPA, presented data in
its 1975 report which showed that between
1970 and 1973 the DDT levels in Lake Michigan
fish were reduced by 50 percent to 75 percent
depending on the species.
Certain industrial chemicals, such as cyanides
10
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FIGURE 1-3
STATES REPORTING SALINITY PROBLEMS
SOURCE: STATE 306fl>)
SUBMISSIONS
-------
TABLE 1-4
TOXIC POLLUTANTS REPORTED BY STATES
State
Alabama
Alaska
Arizona
Arkansas
California
Colorado
Connecticut
Delaware
Florida
Guam
Hawaii
Idaho
Illinois
Indiana
Kansas
Kentucky
Maine
Maryland
Massachusetts
Michigan
Minnesota
Mississippi
Missouri
Montana
Nevada
New Hampshire
New Mexico
New York
North Carolina
Ohio
Oklahoma
Pennsylvania
South Carolina
Tennessee
Texas
Trust Territories
Utah
Vermont
Virginia
Washington
West Virginia
Wisconsin
Wyoming
Heavy
metals Pesticides Phenols Cyanide PCB's
X
X
X X
X X
X
xx x
x x
X
x
x
x x
x x x x x
X XXX
X
X XX
X
XX X
XXX X
XXX
X X
X
X X
X X
X
X
XXX X
X X
X XXX
X X
X
X
X XXX
X X
X
X X
X X
XX x
X
Other or
unspecified
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
X
X
x
x
x
x
x
Note: Some toxic pollutant problems may not be reported because of insufficient data.
12
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and phenols, have been recognized as water pol-
lutants for some time, and several of the North-
east and Great Lakes industrial States such as
New York and Indiana have noted improved
conditions as discharges of those materials are
brought under control. A more recently dis-
covered problem has been that of PCB contam-
ination, RGB's have been used for years as a
dielectric fluid in electrical capacitors and trans-
formers and for numerous other industrial appli-
cations. Their adverse health effect on humans
was confirmed in 1968 when 1,000 people in
Japan were severely affected after ingesting rice
oil contaminated with PCB's. Japan has since
banned all manufacture, importation, and most
uses of the substance. The main problem with
PCB's is their persistence; it takes decades for
them to decompose, and millions of pounds
have already been released in the environment.
Therefore, even though their use has been
greatly restricted, especially in the Great Lakes
area, improvements in levels found in sediments
and fish tissues will take years. By far the most
efficient way to control new substances such as
PCB's in the future is to regulate them at the
source before they enter the environment. This
approach is being taken in the recently passed
Toxic Substances Control Act, which also bans
the manufacture of PCB's after two years.
Finally, a few States mentioned the problem
of carcinogenic chlorinated hydrocarbons which
have recently been discovered in drinking water
supplies for 78 cities across the country. These
substances often result from the reaction of the
chlorine used to disinfect water with other mat-
erials in the water. The extent to which these
compounds occur in water other than drinking
water supplies has not been established.
Biological Monitoring
In their reports, 25 States described or pre-
sented the results of biological monitoring activ-
ities they are conducting (Table I-5). The studies
ranged from simple comparisons between the
size of fish caught at different locations to State-
wide evaluations of complex species diversity
indexes. This type of analysis is extremely useful
in assessing the effects of pollution control
efforts since it describes water quality in terms
of the actual goals of the Act ("water quality
which provides for the protection and propaga-
tion of fish, shallfish, and wildlife . . . ") rather
than in terms of chemical constituents. The
States did find that biological and chemical indi-
cators of water do generally agree with each
other, although there were situations where, des-
pite a cleanup of pollutants as indicated by
chemical analyses, aquatic life had not yet been
fully reestablished.
TABLE I-5
STATES REPORTING ON
BIOLOGICAL MONITORING PROGRAMS
Alabama
Arizona
Connecticut
Delaware
District of
Columbia
Florida
Georgia
Hawaii
Illinois
Indiana
Kansas
Maine
Maryland
Michigan
Missouri
New York
North Carolina
Pennsylvania
Rhode Island
South Carolina
Texas
Trust Territories
of the Pacific
Vermont
Virginia
Wisconsin
13
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CHAPTER II
WATER QUALITY GOALS
AND CONTROL PROGRAMS
The 1972 Federal Water Pollution Control
Act Amendments (PL 92-500) state that: "The
objective of this Act is to restore and maintain
the chemical, physical, and biological integrity
of the Nation's waters." One of the goals to be
achieved in attaining this objective is that "...
wherever attainable, an interim goal of water
quality which provides for the protection and
propagation of fish, shellfish, and wildlife and
provides for the recreation in and on the water
be achieved by July 1, 1983." This interim goal
is generally referred to as "fishable and swim-
mable" water quality.
In their 1976 reports, the States were gen-
erally much more specific than in 1975 in their
evaluations of the feasibility and desirability of
the 1983 water quality goals specified in PL
92-500, and in their estimates of what percent-
age of their waters could be expected to meet
those goals after the implementation of the con-
trol program specified in the Act. Those control
programs include the implementation of second-
ary treatment by 1977 and of best practicable
waste treatment technology (BPWTT) by 1983
for municipal sewage treatment plants, and the
implementation of best practicable control tech-
nology currently available (BPT) by 1977 and of
best available control technology economically
achievable (BAT) by 1983 for industrial dis-
chargers.
As of February 28, 1977, the EPA had obli-
gated $12.4 billion of the $18 billion authorized
under PL 92-500 for municipal facilities con-
struction. It is estimated that one-third of the
12,800 municipal plants currently in operation
will provide secondary or some higher level of
treatment by 1977/78. All major industrial per-
mits and almost all minor ones have been issued,
and most dischargers are expected to be in com-
pliance with BPT by 1977/78.
Estimated Attainment
of the 1983 Goals
Chapter I presented data from 21 States on
current water quality conditions relative to State
standards or the 1983 goals. Fourteen of these
States also estimated what percentage of their
waters would achieve the 1983 goals after imple-
mentation of the control programs called for in
the Act (Table 11-1). Problems concerning the
different bases for assessment of those percent-
ages were mentioned in Chapter I. In addition,
most States which provided projections only
estimated future levels of the more common pol-
lutants. Toxic pollutant levels could not be pro-
jected primarily because of the lack of data
available.
With these limitations in mind, most of the 14
States report that they expect a high percentage
of their waters to achieve fishable and swim-
mable standards by 1983. Vermont's and Rhode
Island's relatively low expected percentages for
major stream miles are due in part to those
States' policy of considering segments below
sewage treatment plants as unfit for swimming
regardless of treatment levels because of the pos-
sibility of a malfunction in the treatment sys-
tem. Nebraska expects its percentage to increase
to over 90 percent after 1983 as additional fund-
ing becomes available. Therefore, it appears that
well over 90 percent of the waters of at least
these 14 States can be expected to achieve the
goals of the Act at most times, and where the
goals will not be met, these States report that
human-induced nonpoint source pollution and
natural conditions are generally the limiting fac-
tor.
The results presented in Table 11-1 also indi-
cate that marked improvements are expected in
many States between now and 1983. This is
15
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TABLE 11-1
PERCENTAGE OF WATERS MEETING 1983 GOALS
Current
By 1983
Based on total stream miles
Georgia (20,000 miles)
Vermont (4,936 miles)
Virginia (27,240 miles)
Based on major stream miles
Maine (1,907 miles)
New Hampshire (1,280 miles)
Rhode Island (329 miles)
Vermont (1,103 miles)
Wisconsin (3,360 miles)
Based on streams or segments
90
92
92
62
54
64
62
91
95
96
99.7
91
95
71
82
98
California (94 rivers)
Delaware (23 segments)
Minnesota (27 rivers)
Mississippi (1,000 streams)
Nebraska (not specified)
Tennessee (642 segments)
Texas (297 segments)
Virginia (148 segments)
78
48
78
92
70
47
67
41
91
96
89
99.7
85
94
96
99
especially true in those areas, such as New Eng-
land, whe-e point source discharges are the
major cause of water quality problems. How-
ever, several States in the less populated central
and western areas of the country do not expect
such dramatic improvement from current pro-
grams. For example, Montana reports that of the
4,000 miles of streams with water quality prob-
lems (total stream mileage in Montana is not
known), only about 100 miles will be improved
by further point sources controls. Arizona
believes that further point source controls will
probably not significantly upgrade the six seg-
ments in the State which do not meet water
quality standards. However; Arizona does
emphasize the need for a strong program to pro-
tect against future water quality degradation
from anticipated rapid population growth in sev-
eral areas.
The principal reasons for not meeting the fish-
able and swimmable goals by 1983 in all waters
were described in detail in the 1975 report.
They include: 1) Discharges to very low tlow
streams where waste waters are a large percent-
age of the total stream flow, and it is not tech-
nologically or economically feasible to reduce
pollutant loads to the levels necessary to meet
water quality goals; 2) urban stormwater runoff;
3) agricultural runoff and irrigation return flows;
4) abandoned mine drainage; 5) in-place pollu-
tant deposits; and 6) insufficient funding. Some
waters which will not meet the goals by 1983
should meet them at a later date as nonpoint
source controls are developed and implemented,
and as funding becomes available.
16
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Point Source
Control Programs
Many States addressed policy aspects of the
point source control programs called for in PL
92-500, partly because of anticipated programs
called for in PL 92-500, partly because of antici-
pated Congressional action on amendments to
PL 92-500 and also in response to the National
Commission on Water Quality report and recom-
mendations which were submitted to Congress
in April, 1976.
The National Commission made the following
recommendations concerning municipal and
industrial pollution control requirements. For
municipal treatment plant construction the
Commission recommended that between $5
billion and $10 billion per year be authorized
over the next 5 to 10 years. Also, municipalities
should be granted' extensions to their permit
requirements for implementation of secondary
or more advanced treatment until funding is
available. In addition, exemptions from required
treatment should be allowed in cases where sec-
ondary treatment is not required to protect
water quality, particularly those cases involving
deep ocean outfalls.
For industrial dischargers, the Commission
recommended that case-by-case extensions or
exemptions be permitted from the BPT limita-
tions now required for July 1, 1977 in situations
where severe economic impacts might occur. In
addition, it was recommended that the BAT lim-
itations, now required for Julyl, 1983 be post-
poned for 5 to 10 years until the effects on
water quality of the BPT limitations could be
assessed. At the same time, the Commission
called for the control of toxic pollutants by
1980. Finally, the Commission recommended
that the goal of zero discharge of pollutants by
1985 be replaced by a goal emphasizing reutili-
zation of resources.
All of the States which discussed the issue
agreed with the funding recommendations for
municipal treatment plants. These states report-
ed that the lack of a definite construction grant
funding schedule made the task of developing
meaningful water quality management plans
very difficult. Many States also agreed either
explicitly or implicitly with the idea of extend-
ing the deadline for municipal plants to meet
secondary treatment requirements. The States
pointed out that State and local governments
were not willing to fund large scale treatment
plants on their own when they would be eligible
for 75 percent federal funding by waiting until
funds became available.
The issue of requiring secondary treatment
when alternative, less expensive treatment meth-
ods (such as lagoons or ocean outfalls) would be
sufficient to protect water quality is also dis-
cussed by several States including Rhode Island,
Alabama, and Arizona. This issue is part of a
more general issue raised by about a dozen
States concerning the degree to which the States
should be able to define the priorities for con-
struction grants spending. The EPA has recently
amended its definition of secondary treatment
to drop the universal requirement for disinfec-
tion, which generally consists of chlorination.
Disinfection is now required only when neces-
sary to protect receiving water quality and bene-
ficial uses. The EPA has also proposed an
amendment to PL 92-500 which would place
more of the responsibility for reviewing con-
struction grant applications with the States.
The States were not as supportive of the
National Commission recommendations con-
cerning industrial dischargers. Only Rhode
Island and Alaska raised the possibility of signifi-
cant local unemployment problems resulting
from BPT requirements and Alaska emphasizes
that limitations should remain stringent enough
to meet water quality goals. While a few States
pointed out that in some cases achieving BPT
effluent limitations is not necessary to protect
water quality, others, such as Michigan, pointed
out that requiring uniform minimum levels of
treatment would help to maintain competitive
positions within industry groups. Furthermore,
the Idaho report stated: "It appears that applica-
tions for waivers or modifications (of BPT efflu-
ent limitations) on a case-by-case basis could
result in an administrative nightmare for the
U.S.E.P.A." A third comment on allowing
exemptions from BPT standards comes from the
Wisconsin report: "Indeed, to back away from
established goals at this point would effectively
penalize firms and communities which have
acted responsibly in meeting their obligations."
However, Idaho and Ohio were in favor of allow-
ing extensions of BPT permits beyond the 1977
statutory date because of delays in issuing guide-
17
-------
lines and to allowadjudicatory hearing processes
to be completed where permits were challenged.
Most of the States which discussed the issue
of delaying BAT, including Georgia, Idaho,
Nebraska, Indiana, and Michigan, felt that some
review of BPT effects and of the costs and bene-
fits of going to BAT treatment levels were neces-
sary before the more stringent limitations were
implemented. The EPA is currently undertaking
a thorough review of BAT guidelines as an inte-
gral part of its toxic pollutant control strategy.
This strategy, which was announced after most
of the State reports were prepared, was devel-
oped after it was realized that the previous
method of controlling toxics, which consisted of
establishing limitations on each toxic substance
based on detailed studies of their effects, was
too cumbersome to provide for effective control
of the large number of toxic pollutants being
discovered. The EPA now plans to use BAT tech-
nology-based effluent limitations to control the
discharge of toxic pollutants. More stringent
toxic controls would be used if technology-based
standards are insufficient to protect human
health or aquatic life.
The BAT approach to controlling toxics
would provide each industry with defined treat-
ment technologies for controlling pollutants. It
would also allow the EPA to control large num-
bers of different toxic pollutants without having
to develop detailed standards on each one,
which would be a very lengthy process. Since
the control of toxic substances is such a pressing
issue, and since BAT provides an effective
method for controlling toxics, delaying the
implementation of BAT could have significant
adverse effects on water quality. With the pri-
mary emphasis of BAT being on the control of
toxics and not on more stringent control of trad-
itional pollutants, and with thorough review of
the economic impact of proposed BAT guide-
lines, the EPA does not foresee widespread econ-
omic impacts resulting from the implementation
of those guidelines.
With regard to the goal of zero discharge of
pollutants by 1985, all of the States which dis-
cussed it, including Indiana, Michigan, and
Nevada believed that it was unreasonable and
unattainable under present technology and econ-
omic conditions.
Nonpolnt Sources
In their 1975 reports, many States pointed to
the need for greater emphasis on determining
more accurately the amounts, causes, effects,
and control of nonpoint sources. The 1976
reports indicate that this need still exists,
although most States did provide some addi-
tional information on nonpoint sources. Idaho
devoted almost its entire report to a discussion
of these problems, since most of its water qual-
ity problems are attributable to agricultural, sil-
vicultural, and mining activities.
The information provided on the causes and
effects of nonpoint sources is summarized in
Chapter I in the discussions on the different
types of water quality problems. As was noted
there and in the 1975 report, nonpoint source
effects are widespread, and their severity is
dependent on a large variety of factors including
climate, soil characteristics, land use patterns,
and the extent to which control measures are
being applied.
Quite a number of States have provided some
information on the estimated magnitudes of
nonpoint source loadings for various pollutants.
The National Commission on Water Quality
report also contained some estimates of the rela-
tive magnitude of point source and nonpoint
source loadings for a few parameters. These
reports indicate that nonpoint sources contri-
bute significantly greater loadings of some para-
meters, especially suspended solids, than do
point sources. However, this type of data should
not be the sole criteria for assessing the relative
impacts of nonpoint and point sources. The
State of Florida, while recognizing the impor-
tance of nonpoint source problems, points out
the following with regard to its own nonpoint
source loading estimates:
"Nonpoint sources, in contrast to point
sources, are generally diffuse and may be
more readily assimilated by the receiving
waters than the more concentrated point
source loads. In addition, nonpoint loads are
generally released as pulse loads during rain-
fall events and any associated violations of
water quality standards may be of an inter-
mittent rather than continuing nature. Hence,
while estimates of total non-point pollution
18
-------
loads are necessary to support the evaluation
of water quality problems, more thorough
analysis will be necessary to determine the
relative contributions of point and nonpoint
loads to specific problem areas."
The potential beneficial effects of erosion
control programs on agricultural lands were
described in Chapter I. Other programs designed
to control problems from mining and silvicul-
tural activities are described in several State
reports including Pennsylvania, Illinois, West
Virginia, and Idaho (mining), and Vermont, Vir-
ginia, Oregon and Washington (silviculture). Sev-
eral of these programs have already produced
significant improvements in water quality.
Water Quality
Success Stories —
Some Results of the
Control Programs
The implementation of water pollution pro-
grams on the Federal, State, and local levels has
led to significant improvements in water quality
in many areas across the country. Presented
below are brief descriptions of how pollution
control actions have restored water quality and
beneficial water uses in 17 areas representing all
sections of the nation. These success stories are a
sample of the ones that have been noted recent-
ly. As the programs called for in PL 92-500
become fully implemented, it is expected that
many more areas will be able to report improve-
ments such as the ones described below.
Naugatuck River, Connecticut
The Naugatuck River is a tributary to the
Housatonic River in western Connecticut. His-
torically, its water quality has been poor
throughout much of its length due to discharges
of untreated or inadequately treated municipal
and industrial wastes.
By the 1950's, a stretch of the river below
Torrington was so polluted that according to
state biologists no living organisms could survive.
Installation of wastewater treatment equip-
ment by industrial dischargers and upgrading of
municipal sewage treatment facilities have signi-
ficantly improved the river's water quality. Al-
though much progress is still needed before the
Naugatuck River can continuously meet its
fishable/swimmable standards, fish and other
aquatic life have returned to the same stretches
that could support no life in the 1950's. A fish
sample taken during the summer of, 1975
revealed that smallmouth bass, bluegills, bull-
heads, and other fish were living in one stretch
of the river.
Pemigewasset River, New Hampshire
A 55-mile stretch of the Pemigewasset River
in the Merrimack River Basin, which had previ-
ously been described as being in a nuisance con-
dition, has improved to the point where the
water quality is suitable for canoeing, fishing,
and swimming.
This improvement is attributed to the com-
bined effect of six upgraded municipal treat-
ment plans located in the area and to; proper
operation of a large industrial wastewater treat-
ment plant.
This improved water quality has contributed
greatly to the growth of the summer tourist
industry in the Pemigewasset Basin. Camp-
grounds featuring swimming and boating have
combined with skiing facilities to make this a
year-round resort area.
Mohawk River, New York
The Mohawk River flows through the popu-
lous and heavily industrialized Utica-Rome area,
then flows eastward to the Hudson River.
Before 1972, Utica-Rome and other areas
were discharging raw waste into the river causing
a near-continuous violation of the total coliform
bacteria standard and low dissolved oxygen
levels.
Today the river is getting progressively cleaner
due to the State of New York's Pure Waters Pro-
gram . and to abatement efforts by local com-
munities and the EPA. More than 75 percent of
the industrial wastes discharged into the river are
now being treated, and the remainder are expec-
ted to receive adequate treatment within a few
years.
As a result of these improvements there have
been fewer total coliform bacteria violations and
the dissolved oxygen content is approaching 100
percent of saturation. Fish , saftiples, taken
19
-------
recently by State biologists in the Mohawk River
near Albany included pollution-sensitive fish
such as bass, walleye, perch, and sunfish. It is
expected that these sport fish will increase in
numbers as the river's water quality continues to
improve.
Monongahela River, West
Virginia and Pennsylvania
The 128-mile-long Monongahela River begins
at Fairmont, West Virginia, then flows north to
join the Allegheny River at Pittsburgh to form
the Ohio River.
During the nineteenth century the Mononga-
hela River supported a large and profitable fish-
eries industry. An aquatic study conducted in
1886 identified 40 species of fish in the river
near the Pennsylvania-West Virginia border,
including many pollution-sensitive fish. But dur-
ing the first half of the twentieth century, water
quality degradation caused by acid mine drain-
age in the 87-mile long upper river from Fair-
mont, West Virginia to Charleroi, Pennsylvania,
and heavy industrial development in the 41 mile
stretch above Pittsburgh killed virtually all the
fish in the Monongahela.
By the late 1960's, state water pollution con-
trol agencies in Pennsylvania and West Virginia
stepped up enforcement of treatment require-
ments at mining sites. This treatment involved
neutralizing acid waste to a safe level for aquatic
life.
A study conducted in 1969 and 1970 showed
a great improvement in the fish population in
the upper Monongahela River. Asa result of this
finding, the Pennsylvania Fish Commission
began stocking sport fish in the Upper Mononga-
hela.
Although there is still a great deal of work to
be done to clean up industrial discharges from
steel making plants along the lower Monongahela
River, the river's overall water quality has
improved significantly.
French Broad River,
North Carolina
The French Broad River located in western
North Carolina suffered from extreme water
quality degradation in the 1950's. The dissolved
oxygen level in the reach of the river between
Pisgah Forest and Asheville dropped to nearly
zero. This low dissolved oxygen level caused sev-
ere stress on the living organisms in the river and
the fish population was reduced drastically.
The majority of the pollution load to the river
came from discharges from the Olin Corpora-
tion, the American Enka Corporation, and the
City of Asheville. These discharges contained
high biochemical oxygen demand, high total sus-
pended solids content, and heavy metals. The
color of the water in this reach of the river had
become black, and the river was foam-covered
and malodorous.
Water quality improvements in this area
started after both industries constructed waste
treatment facilities. The American Enka Com-
pany also made a complete change in its produc-
tion process to reduce the heavy metals it was
discharging into the river.
As a result of these abatement activities, the
black color of the water, the foul odor/ and
foaming conditions have disappeared. The dis-
solved oxygen level has reached 60 to 70 percent
of saturation, enabling fish to reappear. While
much abatement work still remains, improve-
ments in water quality in the-French Broad
River are expected to continue.
Savannah River, Georgia
and South Carolina
The Savannah River is one of the principal
interstate streams of the southeastern United
States. Although the river is 310 miles long, only
the lower 22 miles, mostly along the Georgia
side, is heavily urbanized and industrialized.
Due to citizen complaints, in 1963 the U.S.
Department of Health, Education and Welfare
(HEW) conducted a study of the lower 22-mile
stretch.
The HEW study found that the combination
of industrial and municipal waste had severely
polluted the lower Savannah River. Sewage from
an area containing about 146,000 people was
being discharged into the river. Four-fifths of
these discharges were raw sewage.
In addition, industries were discharging proc-
ess wastes, cooling water, and chemical wastes
including oxygen-demanding materials estimated
to be equivalent to those in raw sewage from a
sewered population of approximately
1,000,000.
20
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Because of the heavy pollution load, the dis-
solved oxygen content in the reach was consis-
tently low. This low dissolved oxygen content,
in combination with industrial waste, adversely
affected aquatic life. Approximately 11,000
acres of coastal waters were closed to shellfish-
ing and the sale of commercial fish decreased.
Since then, the State of Georgia and the EPA
have worked together to clean up the lower
Savannah River. According to Georgia's 1975
"Water Quality Report," all major dischargers
have constructed waste treatment facilities.
The effect of these updated facilities on the
river has resulted in a cleaner and more produc-
tive waterway. The number and diversity of
aquatic life has increased and fish are reappear-
ing in parts of the river where they have not
been found in years.
Lower Tombigbee River, Alabama
A five-mile stretch of the Lower Tombigbee
River near Mclntosh, Alabama was once known
as "the fish kill capital of Alabama."
Water quality degradation and fish kills in this
area were caused by a local industry which, prior
to 1974, discharged wastewater containing pesti-
cides and other organics. During this period
there were no young bass in the river up to five
miles below Mclntosh.
In 1971, the State of Alabama initiated legal
action against the industry. Shortly after, the
industry started providing for the required treat-
ment of its wastes. The waste-water is now com-
pletely detoxified and over 85 percent of the
organic chemicals are removed.
Due to these improvements, the river now
meets the State of Alabama's water quality
standards for fish and wildlife. In addition,
young bass have reappeared in the five-mile
stretch below Mclntosh. No serious fish kills
have been reported recently.
Pearl River, Mississippi
Not too long ago, the Pearl River downstream
of Jackson, Mississippi was one of the State's
most polluted waterways. The river received in-
adequately treated and raw sewage from Jackson-
Hinds and Rankin Counties. This raw sewage
accounted for approximately 50 percent of the
total volume from the Jackson-Hinds county
area. As a result, the river between Japkson and
Byron, Mississippi was often odorous and had
zero dissolved oxygen. The predominant biologi-
cal species in this stretch of the river was blood-
worms, indicators of gross pollution. Pollution
conditions became so severe that even the blood-
worm population disappeared.
In 1975, a new municipal wastewater treat-
ment plant and interceptor system were com-
pleted. The new plant presently treats all of the
wastewater from the Jackson-Hinds county area
with an 85-90 percent reduction of BOD, COD,
and suspended solids.
These improvements are significant. The float-
ing organic debris and associated odors are al-
ready gone, and state pollution control experts
expect rapid improvement in the dissolved oxy-
gen content and a reduction of fecal coliform
bacteria.
Salt Creek and Trail Creek, Indiana n
In spite of their poor water quality over the
years, the Indiana Department of Natural
Resources selected Salt Creek and Trail Creek as
salmonid rearing and implanting areas.
In the fall of 1972, substantial fish kills
occurred in Salt Creek and Trail Creek when
chinook salmon attempted to migrate up both
creeks from Lake Michigan. Because of these
fish kills, the Indiana Stream Pollution Control
Board conducted an investigation. The Board
found that discharges from municipal waste-
water treatment plants caused a low dissolved
oxygen content and a high ammonia concentra-
tion which did not allow the passage of migrat-
ing fish.
By altering treatment techniques and using
chemical additives, the municipalities reduced
the ammonia being discharged and improved the
dissolved oxygen content. While water quality
improvement in Salt Creek and Trail Creek has
not been quantified, fishing has improved signifi-
cantly and no fish kills have been reported since
the additional treatment started.
Detroit River, Michigan
The Detroit River is a fast southward flowing
river that connects Lake St. Clair with Lake
Erie. In the late 1800's the river was in excellent
condition, but by the 1950's it was considered
21
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by many to be a dead river.
The river had become a dumping ground for
sewage, chemicals, waste oils, acid, garbage,
paper sludge, and trash. The shoreline was cov-
ered with a quarter-inch film of oil and grease
balls 8 to 10 inches across were washing up to
the shore. Tons of phosphorus that eventually
reached Lake Erie were discharged daily into the
river over the years. Detroit's major tributary,
the Rouge River, flowed an orange color from
the discharge of pickle liquor, an acid used to
process steel. By January of 1948 the Detroit
River was so polluted with oil that 20,000 ducks
were killed when they landed in openings in the
ice. Massive duck kills continued into the late
1950's and early 1960's. In addition to the duck
kills, aquatic life was reduced drastically.
Control programs for the Detroit area munici-
palities and industries, initiated in 1965, started
water quality improvements. A State water engi-
neer estimated that the waste oil and grease
entering the river were reduced 82 percent
between 1963 and 1975.
Today, fishermen are catching walleyes, pike,
muskellunge, smallmouth bass, coho salmon,
perch, sturgeon, and brown trout in the river.
There has not been a major duck kill since 1968
and the once oil-covered shoreline is almost
clean.
The most dramatic water quality improve-
ment has been in the Rouge River. One major
industry along its shore has cut its iron dis-
charges by 91 percent and its oil and grease by
73 percent. The color of the Rouge River is also
returning to normal.
Arkansas River, Arkansas
For many years, the Arkansas River was a
dumping ground for municipal and industrial
wastes. Accumulations of silt and salt, aggra-
vated and increased by man's activities, also con-
tributed to the river's water quality degradation.
In 1955, the Arkansas-White-Red Basin Inter-
agency Committee reported that the river had
been abandoned for any beneficial uses and was
only suitable for transporting waste.
Since then several factors have led to greatly
improved conditions in the Arkansas River. The
McClellan-Kerr Arkansas River Navigation proj-
ect provided bank stabilization to reduce sedi-
ment runoff and flow augmentation to increase
the river's assimilative capacity during low-flow
periods. New sewage treatment plants were con-
structed, and older ones were upgraded. As sew-
age contamination was being reduced by new
munipal wastewater treatment plants, industrial
dischargers also upgraded treatment facilities to
improve the water quality.
Water quality improvement in the Arkansas
River can be attributed to the cooperative
efforts of Federal, State, and local agencies, to
municipalities and industries along the river, and
to the desire of local citizens to improve the
water quality of this important waterway.
Today, the Arkansas River is relatively clean.
The water on the river is now suitable for uses
such as public and industrial water supply, fish-
ing, wildlife propagation, and agriculture. Much
of the river, including a 50-mile reach upstream
of Little Rock, is clean enough to allow primary
contact recreation.
Center Creek, Missouri
Center Creek, which flows through the Joplin
area of southwestern Missouri, suffered from
poor water quality during the 1950's and early
1960's because of wastewaters discharged from
fertilizer and explosives manufacturers into
Grove Creek, a small tributary.
In 1965, relatively few bottom organisms
could be found in the six to eight miles of Cen-
ter Creek below the confluence with Grove
Creek.
Starting in 1967, after the adoption of water
quality standards, the industries along Grove
Creek began construction of pollution control
facilities. As a result, the amounts of dissolved
fluoride, phosphorus, ammonia, and nitrate
nitrogen in the water have been greatly reduced.
Biological data from a 1974 survey showed
indications of a remarkable improvement of
water quality in Center Creek below the con-
fluence of Grove Creek. Pollution-sensitive
organisms such as mayflies and stoneflies were
common. This section of the creek now meets
water quality standards for both fishing and pri-
mary contact recreation.
Red River of the North, North Dakota
The Red River of the North flows toward
Canada along the border of North Dakota and
22
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Minnesota, then finally empties into Canada's
Lake Winnepeg.
A study conducted in 1964 reported that no
game fish were found in a seventeen mile stretch
of the river below Fargo, North Dakota and
Moorhead, Minnesota. The combined wastes
from treatment facilities in these cities and from
sugar beet and potato processing plants had
eliminated all pollution-sensitive aquatic life in
that river stretch.
The effluent from these discharges contained
high levels of nutrients which stimulated algal
growths and bacterial slimes. Huge amounts of
decaying matter consumed the dissolved oxygen
in the water, which resulted in a zero dissolved
oxygen concentration at the Grand Forks intake
in 1965.
A Federal/State enforcement conference was
held in 1965 to develop specific actions aimed at
improving the Red River. This was later given
legal backing by passage of the 1972 Amend-
ments to the Federal Water Pollution Control
Act.
Due to these actions, the potato and sugar
beet processors improved or eliminated dis-
charges, and the municipalities no longer dis-
charged raw waste into the river.
By the mid-1970's, the water quality of the
Red River had improved on the order of 60 to
65 percent in terms of dissolved oxygen and
fecal coliform bacteria. In addition, it was
reported that game fish are back in the river and
are expected to increase in large numbers.
Boise River, Idaho
During the 1960's and early 1970's the J.R.
Simplot Company, a food processor located in
Caldwell, discharged wastewater containing high
concentrations of biochemical oxygen demand-
ing substances, suspended solids, and nutrients
into the Boise River.
These wastes caused sludge banks, excessive
aquatic growths, and low dissolved oxygen levels
in the Boise River. The nutrient load also contri-
buted to algal growth problems in Brownlee and
other downstream reservoirs on the Snake River.
In 1974, the company eliminated the waste-
water discharge into the Boise River by utilizing
a combination primary treatment and spray irri-
gation system.
Significant improvements have resulted from
this treatment. A study by the U.S. Conserva-
tion Service and Agricultural Research Service
indicated that virtually all of the BOD and sus-
pended solids previously entering the river have
been eliminated. The treatment and irrigation
system has also all but eliminated the nitrogen
and phosphorus that caused eutrophication
problems downstream.
The previously deposited sludge banks are
now disappearing and dissolved oxygen concen-
trations are increasing.
Middle Chehalis River, Washington
Before 1970, the Chehalis River near Cen-
tralia/Chehalis was seriously degraded. Low dis-
solved oxygen levels impaired upstream migra-
tion of salmon, and high bacteria levels prevented
recreational uses of the river. These problems
• >' p<
were caused primarily by domestic and indus-
trial waste discharges from the Chehalis waste-
water treatment plant. They were also aggra-
vated by the naturally slow flow in this part of
the Chehalis, which increased algal bloom poten-
tial, elevated water temperatures, and reduced
dissolved oxygen concentrations.
The upgrading of the Chehalis Wastewater
Treatment Plant to secondary treatment in late
1969 dramatically improved water quality in
this river stretch. The river now meets Class A
water standards, which allow for uses such as
potable water supply, fishing, swimming, and
fish and shellfish reproduction and rearing.
Pearl Harbor, Hawaii
Pearl Harbor on the Island of Oahu is one of
the finest natural harbors in the Pacific Ocean. It
covers over 9 square miles of surface area con-
sisting of three locks or embankments.
Since World War II, Pearl Harbor has been
closed to the public for security reasons and
because of excessive pollution. Studies done in
1969 showed that more than four million gal-
lons per day (mgd) of raw sewage and over three
mgd of primary treated sewage were being dis-
charged to the Harbor by the Navy and by
neighboring municipalities. Oyster beds had
been severely contaminated by human sewage.
In addition, the city and county of Honolulu
23
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operated an open, burning dump on the West
Lock which contributed debris and leachate pol-
lution as well as smoke and odors.
In response to an Executive Order in 1970
which required Federal facilities to meet
environmental standards, the Navy moved quick-
ly to control its discharges and worked with the
Army and Air Force to construct a joint sewage
treatment plant which was completed in 1971.
The plant has helped to greatly reduce sewage
contamination, and other new facilities are being
constructed.
Today, there are no raw sewage discharges
into the Harbor, and the open burning dump has
been closed. Due to these improvements the
Navy has extended access of Pearl Harbor to the
public for swimming, boating, and fishing.
Kodiak Harbor and Gibson Cove, Alaska
The city of Kodiak and Gibson Cove are the
hub of Alaska's seafood industry. In 1971, 15
seafood processing plants were operating in
these areas. According to plant records, these
plants discharged an estimated 72 million
pounds of untreated wastes into the waters of
Kodiak Harbor and Gibson Cove. These waters
accumulated over the years and seriously degrad-
ed the water quality. The decomposing sludge
gave off noxious hydrogen sulfide gas. Dissolved
oxygen levels in 1971 were well below the lev.el
necessary to support a healthy biological com-
munity, and floating solid waste produced a sev-
ere aesthetic degradation.
To alleviate these problems the EPA issued
permits in 1973 requiring that the amount of
solid wastes discharged to Kodiak Harbor and
Gibson Cove be substantially reduced. The sea-
food processing plants subsequently installed
small mesh screens to collect solid wastes flow-
ing out of their facilities.
A recent study showed certain improvements
in water quality, most notably in the amount of
sludge and hydrogen sulfide gas in the sludge
deposits on the bottom of Kodiak Harbor and
the adjacent Gibson Cove. Improvements were
found in the dissolved oxygen level, and the
hydrogen sulfide odors were pot as apparent as
they were prior to the installation of the screens,
thus making the harbor and cove more suitable
for aquatic life.
24
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CHAPTER
COSTS OF MEETING THE GOALS OF THE ACT
The 1976 State reports do not provide much
new information for assessing costs associated
with meeting the 1983 goals of PL 92-500, pri-
marily because these reports were prepared
before the results of the 1976 Needs Survey of
municipal construction costs became available.
Since then, the new Needs Survey has been pub-
lished and is summarized in this chapter. A total
of 16 States have provided estimates of indus-
trial control costs. In addition, the National
Commission on Water Quality and the Council
on Environmental Quality have provided
national compilations of water pollution control
costs.
Municipal Costs
The 1976 Needs Survey total estimates are
considerably lower than estimates provided in
the 1974 Needs Survey and by the National
Commission on Water Quality, especially for the
correction of combined sewer overflows and the
control of stormwater runoff (Table 111-1). The
principal reasons for this reduction were the
availability of more comprehensive facility plan-
ning information and the application of uniform
design conditions and reporting criteria. In addi:
tion, the effects of construction grants which
have been awarded to date are also noticeable in
the reduced estimates for the secondary treat-
ment and interceptor sewer categories.
The Council on Environmental Quality did
not estimate actual needs but instead projected
future federal obligations under the municipal
grants program. Using this method, the Council
estimated that the total capital investment
would be $45.9 billion for all categories over the
next ten years.
Industrial Costs
A total of 16 States have provided estimates
of Statewide capital costs to meet the industrial
effluent limitations required under PL 92-500
(Table III-2). These States are responsible for 54
percent of the total national value added by
manufacturing, according to the 1972 City and
County Data Book. Therefore, as a rough
approximation, one could estimate that they
would account for 54 percent of the total
national industrial water pollution control
expenditures. Using this assumption and the fact
that the total estimated costs for these 16 States
was $12.5 billion, the estimate for total national
industrial expenditures for water pollution con-
trol is $23 billion.
The National Commission report estimates
that the costs for meeting BPT requirements
alone will be $37 billion. BAT requirements and
New Source Performance Standards will cost an
additional $23 billion and $20 billion respec-
tively, for a total cost to industry of $80 billion.
The Council on Environmental Quality report
also presented an estimate of total projected
industrial pollution control costs. This esti-
mate, which came to $40.3 billion, included
BAT level treatment for most industries. The
Council states that this figure is the maximum
amount that it expects to be spent to meet EPA
guidelines.
Direct comparisons between the State esti-
mates and the National Commission and CEQ
estimates are difficult for several reasons. First,
the 16 States which did provide estimates may
not be a representative sample of the different
industries which will need to spend substantial
amounts on pollution control. Second, about
half the States based their estimates on BPT
requirements while the other half used BAT
requirements (Table III-2). Third, some States
did not include very small discharges or thermal
discharges in their estimates.
Despite these difficulties, the State estimates
do appear to be considerably lower than both
the CEQ estimate and even the BPT treatment
(overestimate of the National Commission. One
possible explanation for this difference is that
estimates of the type developed by the National
Commission generally assume industry-wide end-
of-pipe treatment as specified in the EPA's efflu-
ent guideline development documents. In prac-
tice, many plants may be able to avoid installa-
tion of expensive treatment facilities by employ-
ing more efficient water usage, by instituting
process changes, or by land application of wastes
25
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TABLE 111-1
COST ESTIMATES FOR MUNICIPAL FACILITIES CONSTRUCTION
(billions of January, 1976 dollars)
Category
I. Secondary treatment
II. More advanced treatment
required by water quality
standards
III A. Correction of sewer
infiltration /inflow
III B. Major sewer rehabilitation
IV A. Collector sewers
IV B. Interceptor sewers
V. Correction of combined
sewer overflow
Total (I-V)
VI. Control of stormwater
Total
1976 Needs
EPA
12.96
21.28
3.02
5.49
16.98
17.92
18.26
95.90
54.13
150.04
Survey
State
13.20
22.05
3.77
5.73
17.79
18.53
19.34
100.42
57.25
157.67
1974 Needs
EPA
17.81
22.24
7.42
10.25
24.58
25.27
43.51
151.08
329.00
480.08
Survey
State
17.81
28.24
7.53
10.25
34.50
28.11
43.62
170.57
329.00
499.57
NCWQ
11.88
27.28
7.59
10.45
14.30
14.85
87.56
173.91
174.47
348.38
NOTE: Totals may not sum due to rounding.
where land is available. Another possible explan-
ation is that, in many States, a large part of the
required facilities are already in place. The State
estimates, which are generally based on surveys
and other techniques using local information,
would be able to detect these factors whereas
national industry-wide estimates would not.
26
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TABLE 111-2
STATE COST ESTIMATES FOR
INDUSTRIAL POLLUTION CONTROL
(millions of dollars)
State Treatment Level
BPT BAT
Delaware 100
Georgia 300
Illinois 1,200
Indiana 1,136
Kansas 158
Michigan 1,200
Minnesota 700
Mississippi 422
Nebraska 243
New York 1,000
North Carolina 353
Ohio 386
Tennessee 1,567
Texas 3,315
Virginia 100
Wisconsin 324
27
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CHAPTER IV
GREAT LAKES WATER QUALITY
Water quality of the Great Lakes, which col-
lectively contain one-fifth of the entire world's
supply of fresh water, has been of concern for
many years. Congress recognized the special
water quality needs and importance of the Great
Lakes; Section 104(f) of PL 92-500 authorized
special research and technical development
work, and Section108 authorized special demon-
stration programs and specific studies in an
effort to focus further attention on the Great
Lakes as an important national as well as inter-
national water resource,
The Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement
between the United States and Canada was
signed on April 15, 1972. The intent of this
agreement is to restore and enhance the water
quality in the Great Lakes system. The adoption
of common water quality objectives is the first
step toward improving the Great Lakes water
quality.
States bordering the Great Lakes are also con-
cerned about the Great Lakes waters within
their State's boundary. However, individual
State programs to prevent further water quality
deterioration in the Great Lakes system have
been focused primarily on improving water qual-
ity in the tributary streams and have not been
adequate for the Great Lakes as whole. It is a pur-
pose of the special provisions of PL 92-500 and
the International Agreement to coordinate and
assist the States in achieving water quality goals.
With the addition and identification of new per-
sistent toxic pollutants in the Great Lakes
(TablelV-1) it is imperative that increased
emphasis be placed on improving water quality.
Under the International Agreement of 1972
the International Joint Commission was assigned
special responsibilities and functions. The Great
Lakes Water Quality Board was established by
the International Joint Commission to assist it in
the exercise of assigned powers and responsibili-
ties. Each year the Great Lakes Water Quality
Board submits an annual report on Great Lakes
water quality to the International Joint Commis-
sion. The Board's assessment of the Great Lakes
water quality as well as other reports such as the
sixth annual report of the Council on Environ-
mental Quality, etc., are reflected in this report
and together constitute the EPA's assessment of
Great Lakes water quality.
TABLE IV-1
TOXIC POLLUTANTS WHOSE CONCENTRATIONS IN FISH TISSUES
EXCEED U.S. FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION LIMITS
Lakes
(1) parts per million.
Pollutant/FDA limit
PCB's/Sppm'1'
Mercury/0.5 ppm
DDT/5 ppm
Lake Superior
Lake Michigan
Lake Huron
Lake Erie
Lake Ontario
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
29
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Lake Superior
The quality of the open waters of Lake Super-
ior meets the water quality standards of the bor-
dering states and the water quality objectives
stated in the International Agreement. However,
degraded conditions do exist in some near-
shore areas as a result of point source discharges,
tributary inflows and erosion. The major prob-
lem areas are Duluth-Superior Harbor, Silver
Bay, and the portions of southern shore of the
lake (Figure IV-1).
Duluth—Superior Harbor
State standards for dissolved oxygen, fecal
coliform bacteria, phenols and copper are vio-
lated in Duluth-Superior Harbor. Levels of nutri-
ents in the harbor are generally above levels nec-
essary to develop algal blooms. The nearshore
waters in the Duluth-Superior area are also high
in coliform bacteria, phosphorus, suspended
solids and turbidity.
The major pollution sources are the Duluth
and Superior sewage treatment plants, a U.S.
Steel plant, harbor traffic, and the St. Louis and
Nemadji Rivers. By mid-1977, the nine sewage
treatment plants in the Duluth area will be
replaced by the Western Lake Superior sanitary
District and the Superior sewage treatment plant
will be completed. Both these plants will provide
secondary treatment with phosphorus removal
and should result in a significant improvement in
water quality conditions.
However, bottom sludges in these polluted
areas affect water quality and contribute to a
low dissolved oxygen problem. These deposits
will continue to have an impact on water quality
for some time, even after point sources are
abated.
Silver Bay
The major source of degradation in Lake
Superior is asbestos fibers from taconite tailings
of the Reserve Mining Company in Silver Bay.
Asbestos is known to cause cancer when inhaled
and poses a cancer risk when ingested. By the
time absolute scientific proof is available the
harm may be irreversible. Asbestos-like fibers
were discovered in the drinking water of Duluth,
Minnesota and nearby communities on Lake
Superior's north shore in 1973.
The EPA, the States of Wisconsin, Michigan
and Minnesota and several environmental organi-
zations filed suit in the federal district court in
an effort to end Reserve's discharge into Lake
Superior. As of the time this report is being pre-
pared, Reserve Mining has been ordered by the
courts to close down its operation by July 1,
1977. In the meantime, the city of Duluth, with
federal support, has taken steps toward installing
a filtration system to remove the fibers from the
drinking water.
Southern Shore
The red clay bluffs area along portions of the
southern shore of Lake Superior is characterized
by increased suspended solids and turbidity
from natural shoreline erosion and tributaries
which flow through the red clay deposits. Con-
trol of the problem is being addressed through
the development of land management schemes
and ongoing erosion control programs involving
precautionary cultivation and construction prac-
tices.
Other Problems - PCB's, Mercury, Pesticides
In addition to these specific, localized prob-
lems, there are other areas where concentrations
of PCB's, mercury, and pesticides in fish
approach or exceed recommended levels.
Concentrations of PCB's, DDT and mercury
exceed the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's
limits (5.0, 4.0 and 0.5 ppm, respectively) in the
fat variety of Lake Superior lake trout. Concen-
trations of PCB's, DDT and mercury average 14.3,
8.4 and 0.68 ppm, respectively, in these fat
trout. The maximum PCB concentration found
in fat lake trout was 61.5 ppm.
Lake Superior lean lake trout generally do not
exceed the FDA guidelines. Concentrations of
PCB's, DDT and mercury averaged 1.68, 0.94 and
0.23 ppm, respectively. The maximum PCB con-
centration in lean lake trout was 8.6 ppm.
There is no indication yet of a downward
trend in PCB concentrations in Lake Superior
lake trout. Because PCB accumulation in fish
and aquatic invertebrates could reach levels hun-
dreds of thousands of times higher than that in
ambient water, EPA has established water qual-
ity criteria of 0.001 parts per billion (ppb) for
PCB levels in lakes and streams.
30
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FIGURE IV-1
MAJOR PROBLEM AREAS AROUND THE GREAT LAKES
(U.S. WATERS)
OSWEQO
ROCHESTER
BUFFALO
N.Y.
PA.
Elevated levels of heavy metals such as zinc,
lead and nickel have been found in harbor and
certain inshore area sediments of Lake Superior.
Lake Michigan
Lake Michigan open waters are generally of
high quality displaying only minor situations
where water quality fails to meet the standards
of the bordering States or the objectives of the
International Agreement. Three areas which
have been identified as having significant water
problems are Milwaukee Harbor, Green Bay, and
the Indiana Harbor Ship Canal (Figure IV-1).
Milwaukee Harbor
The Milwaukee Harbor area is characterized
by high coliform bacteria, BOD, low dissolved
oxygen, and high suspended solids from storm-
water and combined sewer overflows. A study is
underway for deep tunnel storage and treatment
of combined sewage. There is also an ongoing
demonstration project for treating overflows by
chemical coagulation and activated carbon.
Interceptor sewers have been constructed.
Green Bay
Lower Green Bay has been identified as a pol-
luted area being influenced by the highly indus-
trialized and populous Fox River Valley. Dis-
solved oxygen levels have been low over the past
thirty years. During warm weather, critical dis-
solved oxygen conditions are common in the
Fox River, and extend into Green Bay, a dis-
tance of 3 to 5 kilometers (2 to 3 miles). During
cold weather, particularly under ice cover, low
dissolved oxygen conditions extend about 50
km (30 miles) into the Bay. Phosphorus concen-
trations are high in the Bay and in the vicinity of
the Fox River mouth, and large areas of sewage
sludge are found in the bottom sediments. Total
phosphorus limits occasionally exceed the
31
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1.0 mg/1 standard for the bay in spite of the new
phosphorus removal facilities. PCB concentra-
tions in carp and white fish in the Bay exceed
the 5 ppm FDA limit for PCB's. Taste and odor
problems have been experienced in public water
supplies from Green Bay.
All major municipalities in the Fox River Val-
ley have adequate treatment or a remedial pro-
gram under construction. The latest scheduled
completion date is July 1977 for the City of
Fond Du Lac. Programs are underway in most of
the major municipalities to separate sewer sys-
tems and control storm water overflows.
Nine of the 12 papermills located in the Fox
River Valley are in compliance with National
Pollutant Discharge Elimination System
(NPDES) permit schedules. The Consolidated
Paper Company treatment system failed to
attain operational level, and the case was
referred to the Attorney General for resolution.
The Fort Howard Paper Company permit is
pending an adjudicatory hearing and the Apple-
ton Paper Company's permit is being modified.
When these three companies meet their compli-
ance schedules, water quality in the Fox River
and Green Bay is expected to improve.
Indiana Harbor Ship Canal
The Indiana Harbor Ship Canal is the main
source of pollution in the Calumet area of Lake
Michigan. It carries effluents from two munici-
pal treatment plants, East Chicago and Gary,
and the industrial discharges from Atlantic Rich-
field, E.I. DuPont, Inland Steel, United States
Steel and Youngstown Sheet and Tube. The
most noticeable pollutants are ammonia, phen-
ols, oil and grease, zinc, mercury, cyanide and
phosphorus. The municipalities presently are im-
plementing programs for phosphorus removal
and some decreases in phosphorus levels have
been noted. Improvements in the quality of
industrial effluents have also been noted, and
further improvements are expected as final dis-
charge permit limitations are achieved. However,
the canal itself will continue to have problems
until the sludge deposits on the bottom dissipate
or are removed.
Other Problems-PCB's, Pesticides
In addition to these problems, PCB and pesti-
cide residues in Lake Michigan fish were found
to exceed safe levels. Current data for
1974-1975 indicate that PCB concentrations in
Lake Michigan coho salmon, lake trout, and
chubs exceed the FDA limit. These concentra-
tions have not decreased since 1972, despite
recent reductions in the use of PCB's.
Dieldrin residues in Lake Michigan fish have
regularly averaged just below the FDA limit of
0.3 ppm. There has not been a significant
decline since the 1960's.
DDT contamination in several Lake Michigan
species was especially severe in the mid-1960's
and exceeded the FDA limit of 5 ppm. A 1969
ban on DDT use in part of the Lake Michigan
watershed, including Indiana, Michigan and Wis-
consin, led to a signifcant decline of DDT resi-
dues in the lake by 1972. Only in large lake
trout of Lake Michigan are DDT residues above
FDA limits.
Lake Huron
The open waters of Lake Huron are of good
quality and meet state standards and the Inter-
national Agreement objectives. On the U.S. side,
the one major problem area is Saginaw Bay (Fig-
ure IV-1). Problems in Saginaw Bay include en-
richment from excessive nutrients resulting in
high phytoplankton levels, the presence of PCB's
and other organic compounds in fish, polluted
sediments, taste and odor in water supplies,
excess coliform bacteria, high dissolved solids
concentrations, and periodic fouling of beaches
with dead alewives and Cladophora fibers.
The major municipal dischargers contributing
to these problems include Saginaw, Bay City,
Milwaukee, Essexville, and Midland which are in
compliance with interim NPDES discharge per-
mit requirements and are currently providing 80
percent phosphorus removal. Sewer construction
is underway in Saginaw and Bay City to remedy
some of the pollution problems. Facilities under
construction at the City of Flint will provide
tertiary treatment and phosphorus removal by
March 1977.
The most significant dischargers of dissolved
solids and chlorides, Dow Chemical in Midland
and Michigan Chemical Company in St. Louis,
Michigan are scheduled to be in compliance with
NPDES discharge permit requirements by Janu-
ary 1977. A 50-percent improvement in chloride
32
-------
concentration since 1965 has already been
noted. Decreases were noted in the major ions
calcium, magnesium, sodium and potassium.
Elimination of known PCB sources has led to
rapid reduction of PCB residues in fish in the
Saginaw River. In 1971-72, the Saginaw River
had the highest PCB concentrations of any Great
Lake tributary within Michigan boundaries. The
average concentration in the water was 1.1 ppb
(the EPA criteria is .001 ppb). Concentrations as
high as 169 ppm were recorded in the fish. By
August 1973, concentrations in all species tested
were below 5 ppm.
Elevated levels of heavy metals such as zinc,
lead, and nickel have been found in harbor and
inshore area sediments of Lake Huron.
Lake Erie
Lake Erie water quality has been the object of
great concern for both the general public and
scientific investigators for the past decade. This
has resulted in water quality studies by a large
number of agencies.
These data show that, on the whole, condi-
tions appear to be improving compared to the
recent past when widespread problems were
observed. Despite these improvements, which
include reductions in taste and odor problems at
water supply intakes (attributed to phosphorus
controls leading to decreased phytoplankton
production), a total of 24 problem areas have
been identified by the Great Lakes Water Qual-
ity Board. The most significant problems are the
Detroit River, nearshore areas at Toledo, the
Cleveland Harbor area, and the open waters of
the lake, where excessive nutrients have caused
severe eutrophication problems (Figure IV-1).
The remaining areas are generally located at the
mouths of tributaries such as the Black, San-
dusky, Grant, and Ashtabula Rivers in Ohio.
These tributaries in Ohio have been identified as
major sources of inputs of fecal coliform bac-
teria, phosphorus, metals, suspended and dis-
solved solids, oil and grease, and other pollu-
tants. The extent of their impact on the lake is
not known as there is no near-shore surveillance
program in these areas.
Detroit River
The Great Lakes Water Quality Board reports
that there has been a major effort to control
water pollution along the Detroit River during
the last ten years. Great improvements have
been made, particularly in reducing oil and steel
mill pickle liquor entering the river. However,
the near shore areas still have water quality
problems which persist because of the intense
industrial and commercial activity along the
shore, the major municipal sewage treatment
plants, and combined sewer overflows.
The Board's comparison of 1975 water qual-
ity with that of previous years shows a signifi-
cant improvement in pH and dissolved oxygen,
and the international agreement's water quality
objectives for these parameters are now being
met. Problems with high coliform bacteria and
iron concentrations still remain. A new analyti-
cal procedure for phenol which gives improved
sensitivity to low concentrations was adopted in
early 1975. As a result, phenol was detected
throughout the river.
The Board found significant reductions in pol-
lutant loadings being transported to Lake Erie
by the Detroit River, its largest tributary. Chlor-
ide loadings have decreased more than 20 per-
cent since 1968. The total phosphorus load has
decreased by more than 60 percent since 1968,
although 1975 river measurements showed a
slight increase over 1974. Remedial measures
currently underway should further reduce the
total phosphorus loading. The only parameter
which has shown a definite upward trend in
recent years is nitrate, which has more than
doubled since 1968.
The largest municipal sewage treatment plant
in the area-indeed, the largest single source of
treated wastewater in the Great Lakes Basin-is
the City of Detroit Plant. This plant serves more
than 3 million people. Upgrading the Detroit
Wastewater Treatment Plant to provide second-
ary treatment and phosphorus removal is cur-
rently underway. Significant reductions in the
phosphorus and phenol loadings will result as
this facility is completed and fully utilized.
Construction of the Wayne County-
Wyandotte Wastewater Treatment Plant has
recently been completed with the addition of
secondary treatment and phosphorus removal.
These facilities will also significantly reduce the
discharges of phosophorus and phenol to the
Detroit River.
Approximately 80 combined sewer overflows
33
-------
exist along the Rouge and Detroit Rivers and
contribute to the high concentration of coliform
organisms, phosphorus, ammonia, and chlorides
found in the river. Studies on the combined
sewer overflow problem have been initiated and,
coupled with the regional planning underway,
should provide data on the problem and suggest
remedial actions.
Toledo Area
The Toledo area has water quality problems
at the mouth of the Maumee River attributed to
low dissolved oxygen, high fecal coliform counts
and high phosphorus concentrations.
Cleveland Area
Water quality in Cleveland Harbor is degraded
by the Cuyahoga River. Problems exist with low
dissolved oxygen, high concentrations of
ammonia, dissolved solids, zinc, copper, phenols
and cyanide and elevated temperatures.
Numerous municipal and industrial sources
contribute to this problem area. The last eleven
miles of the Cuyahoga, from the Cleveland
Southerly Sewage Treatment Plant to the
mouth, are polluted to such a degree that gen-
eral water quality standards cannot be attained
with the implementation of the best practicable
treatment levels by all dischargers.
Downstream from the Cleveland Southerly
Sewage Treatment Plant discharge, during criti-
cal low flow periods, the Cuyahoga River
remains in violation of the dissolved oxygen,
ammonia and dissolved solids water quality
standards of the State of Ohio. The problems
encountered in this area are caused by the num-
erous sanitary sewer overflows, industrial dis-
chargers, and the Cleveland Southerly Sewage
Treatment Plant effluent. The total pollutant
loadings discharged to this last segment of the
Cuyahoga River are much too high for the river
to assimilate and the flow characteristics of this
area magnify the problem. As the river
approaches Lake Erie its velocity is reduced, cre-
ating an extensive settling basin which must be
dredged frequently to maintain a proper depth
in the navigation channel.
Other Problems—Phosphorus, Dissolved
Oxygen, Mercury
In the western basin of Lake Erie, increases
were apparent in both chlorophyll and total
phosphorus concentrations. The increases ob-
served in total phosphorus in the western and
central basin are believed due to increased resus-
pension of sediments.
In the eastern basin no apparent changes in
levels of chlorophyll a., total phosphorus, or dis-
solved oxygen were apparent. Low dissolved
oxygen levels have historically been a problem in
Lake Erie, especially in the central basin.
Commercial fishing in Lake St. Clair and for
walleye in the west basin of Lake Erie has been
banned since 1970 due to mercury contamina-
tion. Shortly after 1970, mercury was found to
exceed the FDA limit of 0.5 ppm in at least one
species of fish from each of the Great Lakes
except Lake Michigan. Mercury residues in Lake
St. Clair fish have declined steadily since curtail-
ment of industrial discharges of the metal in
1970. The decline of residues in most species is
about 60 percent since 1970 but levels remain
above the 0.5 ppm limit.
In Lake Erie mercury concentrations in wall-
eye, white bass, yellow perch and emerald and
spottail shiners declined significantly between
1970 and 1975. However, in 1975 the concen-
trations in larger size groups of carp, catfish,
freshwater drum, yellow perch, walleye, and
white bass in western Lake Erie still exceeded
the FDA limits.
Pesticide and PCB concentrations in Lake Erie
fish tissues were found to be within recom-
mended limits.
Lake Ontario
Most indicators suggest that Lake Ontario
experienced a period of relatively stable water
quality conditions from 1967 to 1975. Signs of
improvement have been found in the vicinity of
some urban areas, and phosphorus loadings
entering Lake Ontario via the Niagara River have
decreased since 1967. The major problem areas
are Rochester, Oswego Harbor, and the Niagara
River (Figure IV-1).
34
-------
Rochester
The bathing beaches on Lake Ontario near the
mouth of the Genessee River at Rochester re-
main closed because of bacterial contamination.
In addition the lake waters in this area continue
to be degraded due to erosion, urban runoff and
combined, storm, and sanitary sewer overflows.
The EPA has demonstration programs underway
to establish the magnitude of the problem and
to identify cost-effective solutions.
Oswego Harbor
Water quality in Oswego Harbor ranges from
poor to fair because of the direct discharge of
raw and inadequately treated wastes. Secondary
treatment and phosphorus removal facilities are
under construction for the west side of the City
of Oswego to complement the recently com-
pleted facilities for the east side. Upstream dis-
charges, both point and nonpoint, also contri-
bute to pollutant loadings in the Oswego River
and the Oswego Harbor area.
Niagara River
Although the Niagara River serves as a receiv-
ing body for a multitude of municipal and indus-
trial waste discharges, no violations of the dis-
solved oxygen standards have been reported in
the mainstem. Correspondingly, the BOD,
total phosphorus and total coliform levels
remain generally low, with the exception of
local areas along the New York shoreline.
All of the municipal plants discharging to the
Niagara River, with the exception of Niagara
Falls, New York, had primary treatment and dis-
infection prior to 1967. Niagara Falls, while pro-
viding chlorination, simply screens its waste-
water to remove gross solids and will continue to
discharge essentially raw sewage until a second-
ary treatment plant with phosphorus removal is
completed. This plant should be operational
sometime in 1977.
All of the municipalities discharging directly
to the Niagara River as well as the larger com-
munities on the tributaries are, or will be, pro-
viding phosphorus removal facilities. The
1971-72 ban on phosphate detergent appears to
have reduced mean levels of phosphate in muni-
cipal sewage treatment plant effluents by
approximately 50 percent.
Most of the remedial facilities undertaken by
industries are scheduled for completion by July
1, 1977.
Other Problems—Algae,
Bacteria, PCB's, Mercury
In addition to these specific areas, there are
several other problems facing Lake Ontario.
Among the problems having the greatest adverse
affect on the use of Lake Ontario are nuisance
growths of the algae Cladophora, unacceptable
bacterial levels at a number of public beaches,
and PCB and mercury contamination of impor-
tant commercial and sport fish species.
Nutrient levels, along with the normally
occurring conditions of water movement, tem-
perature, light and alkalinity in the lake are such
that Cladophora growth occurs wherever suit-
able substrate exists and continues to cause un-
pleasant shoreline conditions. Currently the
most practical means of controlling Cladophora
is through the reduction of nutrient inputs, par-
ticularly phosphorus.
Open waters have been found to be generally
free out of any fecal contamination. Hetero-
trophic bacteria found in the open waters indi-
cate that nutrient loadings from the Niagara
River, Metropolitan Toronto, and Rochester
areas have a widespread effect on the lake. On
the U.S. side, beaches near Rochester continue
to be affected by sewage and stormwater over-
flows.
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service data for
1970-1973 show that PCB concentrations in
Lake Ontario fish were less than the FDA guide-
line of 5 ppm for 1970 but were greater than 5
ppm from 1971 through 1973. A Canadian
report on PCB's in Lake Ontario fish given on
November 1975 at a National Conference on
PCB's in Chicago, Illinois indicated mean values
of less than 5 ppm for 8 species of fish and a
mean value of 17.14 ppm for the American eel.
The State of New York has found mercury
levels in the some bass species to exceed the 0.5
ppm FDA limit. Mercury levels in fish have not
declined significantly since 1973.
In July, 1976 concentrations of the pesticide
Mirex exceeding the FDA limit of 0.1 ppm were
found in the edible portions of several species of
fish in Lake Ontario. New York State subse-
quently issued an order prohibiting the con-
sumption of seven species of fish. Investigations
to determine the sources of the contamination
are currently underway.
35
-------
CHAPTER V
ANALYSIS OF OIL SPILLS
Pollution from oil spills has been a severe and
highly visible water quality problem for a num-
ber of years. Some of the effects of these spills,
such as covered beaches, large oil slicks, and oil-
soaked dead birds, are obvious. Other ecological
effects can involve subtle changes that over a
long period of time could change the composi-
tion of aquatic communities or damage the abil-
ity of a species to survive.
Spurred by public reaction to the oil produc-
tion platform blowout which released 700,000
gallons of oil off the Santa Barbara coast in
1968, Congress enacted the Water Quality Im-
provements Act of 1970, which gave the EPA and
the U.S. Coast Guard major responsibilities for
preventing and responding to oil spills. These
responsibilities are in addition to the numerous
State programs designed to deal with this prob-
lem. Between 1970 and 1973, the reporting of
oil spills by type and location has improved to
the point where meaningful evaluations of the
data are now possible.
Federal Spill Prevention
Programs
A Memorandum of Understanding between
the Secretary of Transportation and the EPA
Administrator (Nov. 24, 1971) defines preven-
tion responsibility between transportation and
non-transportation related facilities. The EPA is
responsible for all facilities, both onshore and
offshore, that are not related to transportation.
Included are facilities that drill for, produce,
store, process, refine, or consume oil. The Coast
Guard is responsible for transportation related
facilities, including vessels, marine facility trans-
fer operations, railroads, tank trucks, and pipe-
lines. Based on this classification, eight source
categories have been defined (Table V-1).
Magnitude of Oil Spills
Since 1972 the number of oil spills reported
annually has been approximately 10,000 to
12,000, and the total volume of oil spilled has
been approximately 20 million gallons per year
(Figure V-1). For each of the four years for
which data are available, most of the total vol-
ume spilled has been accounted for by a very
small number of major spills, where major spills
are defined as those involving over 100,000 gal-
lons in coastal areas and over 10,000 gallons in
inland areas. The number of major spills has
ranged from 19 to 30, which is less than one half
of one percent of the total number of spills.
TABLE V-1
SOURCES OF OIL SPILLS
Transportation
Vessels
Marine facilities
Onshore (railroads and trucks)
Pipelines
Non-transportation
Offshore (wells)
Onshore bulk storage
Onshore refineries
Onshore facilities (wells)
An analysis of major spills by source for the
three-year period for which data are available
(1973-1975) shows that vessels, pipelines, and
onshore facilities (wells) account for 86 percent
of the total major spill volume during the per-
iod, with vessels alone accounting for 53 percent
(Table V-2). These same three categories also
accounted for 68 percent of the total volume
from small spills (Table V-2). Overall, spills from
vessels alone accounted for 44 percent of the
total volume of oil spilled.
A comparison of the volume of oil spilled as a
percentage of the volume of oil transported for
the different source categories (in 1975) shows
that the greatest problems are associated with
vessels. For every 10,000 gallons of oil trans-
ported in vessels, more than one gallon is spilled
37
-------
22-
20-
18-
16-
O 14 •
I 10'
D 8-
O
6
4 -
2 -
5"
"9
i
li
1971
SPILLS < 100.000 GAL.
SPILLS > 100,000 GAL.
FIGURE V-1
OIL SPILL VOLUME PER YEAR
(M
t-
O)
1972
1973
YEAR
1974
1975
38
-------
(Figure V-2). The next highest spill rates are for
onshore transportation facilities and onshore
wells. The data on oil volume moved by source
category for the years 1973-1975 shows that,
with the exception of a large increased in marine
vessels and facilities volume in 1975, the year-to-
year volume changes have generally been small
(less than 10 percent) (Table V-3).
Geographically, most of the major spill vol-
ume (63 percent) occurred along the Atlantic
and Pacific coasts (Table V-4). On the other
hand, most of the small spill volume (60 per-
cent) occurred in the Great Lakes and inland
areas, with the inland areas accounting for most
of this percentage (Table V-4).
Trends in Spill Volumes
Despite the fact that only three year's worth
of data were available for analysis, significant
trends (chance that trend indication is random
was less than 20 percent) were determined for a
few of the source categories. For spills of less
than 100,000 gallons, there were significant
decreases in the volumes spilled from vessels and
from bulk storage facilities. These trends would
be consistent with known EPA and Coast Guard
program activities.
Major spill trends show significant decreases
in spills from marine facilities and bulk storage
facilities, while significant increases were ob-
served in major spill volumes from vessels and
onshore transportation facilities. However, the
small number of major spills indicates that these
results may not be as meaningful as the small
spill trends.
TABLE V-2
SPILL VOLUME BY SOURCES
(millions of gallons)
Source
Major Spills
1973 1974 1975
Minor Spills
1973 1974 1975
Transportation
Vessels
Marine facilities
Onshore
Pipelines
Non-transporation
Offshore
Onshore (storage)
Onshore (refineries)
Onshore (facilities)
Unknown
Total
4.20 2.62 11.61
1.13 0.94 0.00
0.00 0.00 0.54
1.57 4.10 1.32
0.61 0.00
0.37 0.31
0.00 0.70
2.00 0.12
0.00
0.12
0.00
2.52
0.27 0.16 0.00
10.15 8.95 16.11
1.27 1.30 1.03
0.20 0.37 0.10
0.49 0.68 0.60
0.87 2.30 1.17
0.25 0.14 0.08
0.80 0.69 0.36
0.17 0.05 0.15
0.76 1.30 0.67
0.41 0.38 0.17
5.22 7.21 4.33
39
-------
FIGURE v-2
RATE OF OIL SPILLED BY SOURCE
.0120
.0100 -
.0080 -
8s
o
_l
P .0060 -
(9
<
.0040 -
.0020 -
.0000
TRANSPORTATION
u.
UJ
z
E
tr.
o
M
NON-TRANSPORTATION
UJ
tc.
O
CO
UJ
C9
tc
i
*
tc
o
1
o
CO
UJ
E
UJ
2
cc
o
CC
o
CO
O
1 GALLON SPILLED FOR
EVERY 10.000 MOVED
SPILLS < 100,000 GAL.
SPILLS >100,OOOGAL.
1975
40
-------
TABLE V-3
ANNUAL MOVEMENT,
PRODUCTION AND STORAGE
(billions of gallons)
1973
1974
1975
c Marine vessels
•j= and facilities
1
a Onshore
c
2
K Pipelines
Offshore
(wells)
c
o
15 Onshore
o (bulk storage)
Q.
C
2 Onshore
c (refineries)
o
Onshore
(facilities)
110.4
23.9
280.7
24.8
37.6
190.9
116.9
108.0
18.5
272.2
22.8
39.9
186.4
112.2
190.7
19.3
269.2
21.1
42.4
190.9
107.1
TABLE V-4
SPILL VOLUME BY GEOGRAPHICAL LOCATION
(millions of gallons)
Area
Major Spills
1973 1974 1975
Minor Spills
1973 1974 1975
Inland
Great Lakes
Atlantic Coast
Gulf Coast
Pacific Coast
Total
4.47 3.51 4.72
.00 .33 .00
2.84 2.06 6.60
.20 .00 .00
2.64 3.05 4.79
10.15 8.95 16.11
2.36
.29
1.33
.44
.80
4.74 2.08
.25 .31
.97 .86
.46
.79
.44
.64
5.22 7.21 4.33
41
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APPENDIX A
-------
State and Jurisdictional Summaries
Appendix A provides a listing of summary information submitted by the States and other
Jurisdictions for the National Water Quality Inventory Report for 1976.
These summaries have been excerpted directly from reports received from each State and
Jurisdiction. The reader can obtain more complete information by writing to the applicable agency
included on the title page which precedes each of the following summaries.
A-3
-------
APPENDIX A
Summary - State of Alabama
Complete copies of the State of
Alabama 305(b) Report can be
obtained from the Agency listed
below:
Alabama Water Improvement Commission
State Office Building
Montgomery, A L 36104
A-5
-------
APPENDIX A
Introduction
In 1974, the first water quality report to Congress in
accordance with Section 305(b) of Public Law 92-500 for
the State of Alabama was prepared. The result was a
voluminous report which not only included a statewide
review of water quality for 1974 but also contained
detailed information concerning the fourteen river basins of
Alabama. This information included a description of each
basin, water uses in the basin, water quality of the basin,
and non-point source pollution in the basin. For 1975, the
water quality report to Congress will follow a format
similar to that used for the 1974 report; however, in the
interest of brevity, the report will only concern itself with
water quality.
New information in the form of relative condition
factors for selected Alabama fish is included in the 1975
report, and it is expected that such additions will be
included in subsequent reports as data are made available.
The relative condition factors were computed by using the
formula Kn = W , where W equals the weight of a fish of a
W ^
specific length and W is the computed weight for the same
length, derived from the equation fa = aLb for particular
species in Alabama river systems. The fa values were taken
from Tables for Computing Relative Conditions of Some
Common Freshwater Fishes by W.E. Swingle and E.W.
Shell. After individual values were computed, an overall
average for all fish at the station was reported.
stages of progress, and the expected enhancement of water
quality should be evident.
There are, however, situations where the ultimate
achievement of water quality objectives is most doubtful.
Although improvement in quality may be observed, it is
anticipated that such areas will experience a level of quality
less than that desired for some time into the future. Such
situations are encountered when natural flows of receiving
streams are considerably less than the amount of effluent,
treated, or inadequately treated waste presently entering
the stream.
Total number of trend monitoring stations and
stations meeting water quality objectives are indicated in
Figure 1. Parameter measured at those stations are listed in
Table 1.
TABLE 1
WATER QUALITY DATE AVAILABLE
FROM THE ALABAMA WATER IMPROVEMENT
COMMISSION TREND STATION NETWORK
Water Quality
Completion of 1975 statewide trend station monitor-
ing produced data comparable to that obtained during
1974. There was, however, an 8.3 percent increase in
stations which met current water quality objectives during
1975 as compared to 1974. A total of 43.6 percent of the
trend stations met water quality objectives during 1975,
while 35.3 percent of the trend stations achieved current
water quality objectives during 1974. Various reasons for
this improvement in water quality will be discussed in later
portions of this report.
It must be kept in mind that the majority of the
trend stations were chosen in order to monitor problem
areas in the State and, therefore, the data presented cannot
be used to draw precise analogies with the status of quality
in other areas of the State. It should also be recognized that
the gradual implementation of industrial and/or municipal
treatment facilities will manifest itself in an upgrading of
water quality in trend station data over time.
Although some improvement in water quality was
observed during 1975, two years of monitoring data is still
insufficient for observation of long-term trends. Hopefully,
a period of five to ten years will produce monitoring data
of statistical significance with respect to changes in water
quality. This period should also coincide with the comple-
tion of the majority of treatment facilities now in various
'Air temperature
*Water temperature
*Dissolved oxygen
*DO percent of saturation
"Biochemical oxygen demand
*PH
'Alkalinity
"Hardness
"Color
"Turbidity
* Nitrates
"Chlorides
"Phosphates
"Monthly.
'"Quarterly.
'"Annually.
*Total dissolved solids
"Total suspended solids
* Volatile suspended solids
"Fecal coliform
"Flow
"Weather
"Date collected
"Time collected
""Iron
""Copper
""Zinc
""Chromium
"""Cyanide
Non-point Source Pollution
With the majority of the Commission's available
resources primarily concerned with point source pollution,
degradation of water quality resulting from non-point
source pollution has not been the focus of extensive
evaluation throughout the State. However, with improve-
ments in the point source area, identification and imple-
mentation of non-point source pollution abatement will
ensue as resources permit. The Commission has taken some
initial steps in the area of non-point source pollution, and
it is expected that information obtained from the comple-
tion of the 208 planning processes will help to identify
non-point source pollution and costs associated with
attainment of water quality goals where control of non-
point source pollution is involved.
A-6
-------
APPENDIX A
FIGURE 1
WATER IMPROVEMENT COMMISSION
TREND MONITORING STATIONS AND
WATER QUALITY STATUS
60
CO
50
< 40
CO
£30
ec
iu -.
co 20
10
1974
1975
TOTAL NUMBER OF STATIONS
STATIONS MEETING WATER QUALITY OBJECTIVES
NOTE: TREND STATIONS WERE CHOOSEN TO MONITOR PROBLEM AREAS IN THE
STATE AND DATA OBTAINED AT THESE STATIONS ARE NOT INDICATIVE
OF THE OVERALL STATUS OF THE WATER QUALITY IN THE STATE.
A-7
-------
APPENDIX A
Silviculture
The Commission has adopted certain forest practices
guidelines intended to address water quality problems
which may be associated with silvicultural practices. These
guidelines suggest the use and maintenance of buffer zones
and incorporate other recommendations concerning
silvicultural activities near watercourses. In addition, a
three-year study to evaluate water quality problems and the
effectiveness of these guidelines was initiated during the
summer of 1975 with the hope that data generated from
this study would give some insight into water quality
problems associated with operations in Alabama. In con-
junction with the adoption of guidelines, a cooperative
statewide educational program between the Commission
and the State Forestry Association aimed toward the forest
industry was initiated. The use of radio, television, and
newspapers, along with training sessions, comprise the bulk
of this educational approach.
Construction
Cooperation between the State Highway Department
and the Commission in the form of Commission staff
review of highway project proposals and subsequent recom-
mendations by the staff to ensure water quality is another
step to reduce non-point source pollution.
Non-point source pollution arising from dredge and
fill projects is being kept to a minimum as a result of the
state certification program under the provisions of Section
401(a)(1) of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act
Amendments of 1972. All proposed projects are reviewed
by the staff to ensure that water quality will be maintained
before projects can proceed.
Mining
In 1974, the Commission adopted certain surface
mining regulations in an effort to address non-point source
pollution from the mining of minerals in the State. These
regulations require the submittal of pollution abatement
plans prior to the initiation of mining. This prior planning
for protection of water quality, when coupled with Staff
inspection activity, has been most successful in addressing
the water pollution problems associated with mining.
Agriculture
Non-point source pollution problems which result
from agricultural activities are handled on a compliant
basis. The majority of these compliants are concerned with
feed lot operations and aerial application of pesticides. In
the former instance, relatively simple and inexpensive
treatment and management practices are available, and the
Commission's staff works in close cooperation with the Soil
Conservation Service and other agriculturally oriented
agencies to correct these deficiencies when encountered. In
addition, informational materials relating to proper disposal
of animal waste are made available and distributed
throughout the State.
The Commission's staff worked closely with the
Department of Agriculture in the development of regula-
tions concerning the aerial application of pesticides, and
participates with the Department to correct problems
associated with pesticides where appropriate.
Fish Mortality Associated
with Non-point
Source Pollution
During 1975, twenty-nine (29) fish kills were
investigated by the Commission's staff of which seven (7)
were attributable to non-point source pollution (Table 2),
while during 1974, eleven (11) fish kills were attributable
to this same cause. The reduction for 1975 is manifested in
the reduced number of pesticide related fish kills, and it is
felt to be indicative of an increased awareness of the
problems which can result when the careless use of
economic poisons prevails. It is hoped that in the future,
the number of pesticide related fish kills will decrease as the
users of these economic poisons become increasingly aware
of the hazards involved.
A-8
-------
APPENDIX A
TABLE 2
SUMMARY OF 1975 FISH KILLS BY
RIVER BASIN AND CAUSE
River Basin
Alabama
Coosa
Chattahoochee
Escambia
Mobile
Perdido
Tennessee
Warrior
Total
!3 1 8
£ S
3 11
3
1
1 - 1
5 1
1
11 1 4
4 1 1
29 2 4 2 2
c
1 » | \
1 1 a! * I &
i s 11 * 1 I
z o = a. a H o
1 1
2 1
1
1 1 2
1
1 4 1
2
41 1 625
A-9
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APPENDIX A
Summary - State of Alaska
Complete copies of the State of
Alaska 305(b) Report can be obtained
from the State agency listed below:
State of Alaska Department of Envi-
ronmental Conservation
Pouch O
Juneau, AL 99811
A-11
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APPENDIX A
Since the State of Alaska did not provide a short
summary in its 305(b) Report, this summary consists of
excerpts from that report. The following summary was
provided by EPA Region X.
Current Water Quality
and Recent Trends
Alaska reports that its waters are generally in com-
pliance with water quality standards except in a few areas
that are discussed witithin the document. Some percentage
of waters within Alaska do not meet standards due to
natural conditions. The extent of these conditions was not,
and presently cannot, be quantified. Parameters associated
with man-induced pollution problems in the State include
bacteria, dissolved oxygen, pH, toxic sulfite waste liquor,
oil, and suspended solids.
There is an apparent need for an improved water
quality surveillance program in Alaska (including trend
stations and intensive surveys). Present assessments are
based on marginal-to-inadequate data; interpretations and
extrapolations of the data are unreliable. Obtaining a
minimum data base in Alaska would be costly. Transporta-
tion difficulties and extreme weather conditions make
sample collection costs almost prohibitive. Region X does
not include Alaska stations in the National Water Quality
Surveillance System (NWQSS) because the cost to maintain
even a few stations would exceed its monitoring budget
allotment for the entire four-state region. Additional
surveillance funds earmarked specifically for Alaska would
be necessary for the Region to initiate NWQSS stations in
the State.
Water Quality Goals
and Control Programs
Alaska's water quality standards are its water quality
goals, and control programs are designed to maintain those
standards. In its 305(b) Report for 1976, the State makes
the judgement that most waters presently meet Federal
1983 goals. Point source pollution control programs and
associated improvements are discussed for several areas,
even though most improvements can only be discussed
from a qualitative standpoint. Non-point source programs
are at an infant stage.
Costs and Benefits
Alaska has made an effort toward defining costs
involved in meeting 1983 goals, where there are data
available. The State expresses concern over existing and
proposed effluent guidelines, which may curtail the pulp
and paper and placer industries. Alaska has identified
benefits that will be derived by maintaining good water
quality, but could not quantify them.
Non-point Sources
Alaska has identified six major non-point source
categories of concern. They are siliviculture in southeast
Alaska, where a great amount of logging takes place; urban
runoff in major cities like Anchorage (Alaska's largest city);
village sanitation; road and pipeline construction; waste oil
disposal; and placer mining. Natural high sediment levels
occur in many of the streams in the State; with little water
quality data available, it is virtually impossible to
differentiate between natural and man-caused pollution
from non-point sources. This point is repeatedly addressed
in Alaska's report.
A-12
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APPENDIX A
Summary - State of Arizona
Complete copies of the State of
Arizona 305(b) Report can be
obtained from the State agency listed
below:
Bureau of Water Quality Control
Division of Environmental Health
Services
Arizona Department of Health
Services
1740 West Adams St.
Phoenix, AZ 85007
A-13
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APPENDIX A
Background Information
Arizona has a wide variety of climatic zones, but
most of the State receives less than 20 inches of precipita-
tion a year. Over half the State receives less than 10 inches
per year. Evaporation rates are high.
The quality of surface water in Arizona, in general, is
near levels associated with natural conditions. The State is
fortunate not to have reached the critical point of
environmental deterioration that has occured elsewhere in
this country. Thus, Arizona's water quality program is
concerned more with maintenance than with restoration.
However, it is essential that problems be recognized and
comprehensive plans developed in time to combat future
demands on water resources, provide control of water
quality, and provide control of water pollution. Much of the
water quality information and studies needed to define
problems and provide solutions to water quality problems
in the State is inadequate. Data used to prepare this report
was limited to that which was readily available. Con-
sequently, this report is not as specific as might be
desirable. It is difficult to cite specific violations in water
quality because quantity and quality of data are not
adequate for this purpose at many locations.
Water Quality
and Violations
A total of 336 violations of surface water standards
were observed in 1975; 80 in the Fixed Station Network,
48 in the two intensive surveys, and 208 in the Lake
Eutrophication Survey. Other violations were observed on
miscellaneous samples from time to time, but they have not
been tabulated herein.
Water quality is highly dependent upn the geology
and morphology of the receiving watershed. In this arid
region, surface water comes mainly from surface runoff and
shallow precipitation. Base flow is small and can be highly
mineralized. Runoff from rainfall and snow melt can be of
good mineral quality but high in suspended sediments. In
addition, irrigation of soils can contribute significant
amounts of unleached salts. During the intensive surveys of
the past three years, potential violations in bacteriological,
turbidity, pH, toxic metals, and proposed nutrient
standards were observed. High turbidity levels following
runoff events are common throughout the State. Sources of
this turbidity remain to be identified.
Bacteriological problems are associated with agri-
cultural and recreational waters. The two uses are often
concurrent, making it difficult to judge the sanitary
significance of violations in indicator organisms. Potential
problems have been observed in the Verde River, Oak
Creek, the Colorado River, and the Salt River Lakes
(Roosevelt, Apache, Canyon, and Saguro).
Problems with toxic metals can occur downstream
from mining activities in mineralized areas. Areas of
concern are the lower reaches of the San Francisco River
and San Pedro River, and the reach of the Gila River from
Coolidge Dam to the Ashurst-Hayden Diversion Dam.
Violations of nutrient standards, specifically total
phosphates, are presumed to be related to municipal and
agricultural discharges. However, some contribution may be
attributed to leaching of natural phosphates from soils. This
relative proportion that is contributed by each source
remains to be determined.
Trends
The bulk of data is still too scarce to adequately
delineate major trends in water quality, but, with continued
operation of the Fixed Station Network, this deficiency
will eventually be alleviated.
Some improvements in water quality have occurred in
water bodies that serve as receiving streams for treatment
plant effluents. The improvements are traceable either to an
improvement in the quality of the effluent due to new
plant construction and/or better operating techniques or to
a discontinuance of the discharge altogether.
Water quality in some areas has shown a decline
because development was so rapid that adequate waste
treatment facilities could not keep up. Small existing plants
became overloaded and had to discharge inadequately
treated water. The Pinetop-Lakeside area has been plagued
with failing septic tank systems for years. This problem will
hopefully be remedied soon with the construction of a new
centralized collection and treatment system. Other areas
with similar problems include Greer, Bullhead City, the
Parker Strip and areas near Prescott.
Some degradation of groundwater supplies may have
already taken place. There is concern about the
Globe-Miami area, the area south of Tucson and a new
proposed operation in the Tombstone area. Implementation
of a groundwater monitoring network should determine the
extent of the problem and will undoubtedly uncover some
more problem areas.
Program Impacts
In the past, water quality has been inadequate to
assess, not only current water quality conditions, but also
long-range trends and changes that had resulted from
programs of the Bureau, other agencies, and private
industry. Recent program activities, resulting from Public
Law 92-500, have been significant steps taken to alleviate
this deficiency. Intensive surveys were conducted in an
effort to begin establishing background levels of water
quality. A fixed station network has been implemented to
monitor long-term water quality trends and, hopefully, to
flag serious degradations in surface water quality at the
earliest possible stages. The compliance monitoring
program, an integral part of the National Pollutant
Discharge System (NPDES), has helped to improve general
A-14
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APPENDIX A
maintenance and operation of treatment plants across the
State, resulting in a better quality effluent.
The greatest positive impact has been on the con-
struction of waste treatment facilities. Such construction
has allowed Arizona to maintain the quality of its receiving
waters at near natural levels. Twenty-three treatment
facilities have been built in the five years preceding FY 76.
Twelve facilities were upgraded and eleven were new
systems. Five of the new systems reused the effluent in
some manner, while six facilities created new discharges
which may constitute a degradation rather than an upgrad-
ing of water quality.
The permit program, while controversial, has had the
benefit of forcing facilities to be concerned about the
quality of their effluent. But the program will cause an
unnecessary economic loss by upgrading facilities (such as
lagoons) that are not causing any problems with receiving
waters. Problems will also occur when facilities are unable
to meet monitoring requirements. It is difficult to go from
no self-monitoring to levels required by 1977. This is
particularly true where private laboratories and municipal
laboratories are either nonexistent or at minimal levels. The
changes in test methodology that are occuring will keep test.
procedures in turmoil for sometime. Some facilities will be
reluctant to purchase expensive test equipment for a
particular test (coliform—MPN vs. MF) when test proce-
dures are uncertain.
The impacts of basin planning activities and Section
208 planning activities will take some time to materialize
because they are, by design, long-range planning programs.
However, increased State and Federal presence may have
some immediate beneficial impact on programs dealing with
water pollution. Several of the basin plans, prepared under
contract by outside consultants, are either completed or in
the final draft stages. The rest will soon be completed. The
208 planning process is still in its early stages. The
Governor of Arizona has designated the six regional
Councils of Government (COGs) as the official Section 208
planning agencies. The Bureau's input and role in
coordinating these activities has not yet been determined.
Much of the early program grant documents sub-
mitted in response to deadlines imposed by PL 92-500 and
subsequent EPA regulations were of necessity hastily
prepared and are of questionable value. The time spent
preparing such documents has delayed working aspects of
various State programs. In a State like ours where staffing is
meager, the time lost to ongoing projects has been
significant. Lost working time can be justified by planning
activities that result in future time savings. It remains to be
seen whether or not such savings will be realized.
The facilities inspection program and the operator
training and certification program probably have the most
visible impact on water quality, at least on the quality of
wastewater treatment plant discharges. Deficiencies in plant
operation and maintenance that are discovered during
routine inspections are often corrected either on the spot or
shortly thereafter. As a result of the operator training
program, the general knowledge of Arizona's plant oper-
ators is slowly but steadily improving, the end result being
more competently operated treatment plants.
Water Use
The principal water use in Arizona is irrigation
agriculture. Two-thirds of the water used is pumped from
groundwater reservoirs. Total yearly water use is estimated
at 7.7 million acre-feet, 5 million acre-feet of which was
pumped from groundwater storage.
Future uses will remain similar, but there will be
changes in the use pattern. Municipal and industrial usage
will increase. Agricultural usage may decrease as ground-
water supplies are depleted.
Segments where
Water QuaMty Standards
Will Not be Met
Full implementation of Public Law 92-500 should
help maintain the existing water quality levels of Arizona
waters. Some problem areas will be corrected through
construction and permit activities. However, some problems
may remain. There will be problems with streams that
discharge only following rainfall events. Such streams are
subject to flash flooding and tubidity levels in excess of
State standards. Normally dry streams that receive a
well-treated wastewater discharge may also present prob-
lems. Stream reaches below mineralized areas may have
problems with metals accumulation.
Costs to Achieve
Water Quality Goals
Costs to support the construction grant program and
State water pollution control program, as administered by
the Arizona Department of Health Services through
September of 1981, are estimated at $617,949,000. Total
construction needs are $612,249,000 of the total amount.
Program support should require a minimum of
$5,7000,000, but this level of funding is unlikely. State and
Federal budgets appear to be committed to near current
funding levels for program activities; thus $2,450,000 is apt
to be available rather then $5,700,000. This will mean that
some programs may not be implemented prior to
September 1981 while other programs will receive a lower
priority.
Control of Non-Point Sources
Non-point sources may contribute bacteria, turbidity,
toxic metals and nutrients to Arizona waters in amounts
A-15
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APPENDIX A
sufficient to cause violations in water quality standards, parametric coverage required at primary stations was both
The nature of the problem has yet to be delineated. It will extensive and inflexible, adequate resources were simply
likely take several seasons to identify and quantify such unavailable. The current proposed regulations allow for
problems. Sampling sites for such problem identification more flexibility at "Fixed" stations. The new regulations
need to be established. Some locations for non-point source should allow for study of problem areas that require more
identification were included in the primary monitoring time than that needed for intensive studies but do not
network as required under Section 106 appendix regula- warrant the expense of long-term stations with compre-
tions as published on August 28, 1974. However, other hensive parametric coverage. When data are available to
stations needed for non-point source evaluation could not identify sources and pollutant levels, control measures will
be justified because the Section 106 regulations allowed for be studied. Implementation of such control measures cannot
only intensive surveys and primary stations. Since the be delineated until specific problems have been identified.
A-16
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APPENDIX A
Summary - State of Arkansas
Complete copies of the State of
Arkansas 305(b) Report can be
obtained from the State agency listed
below:
Arkansas Department of Pollution
Control and Ecology
8001 National Drive
Little Rock, AR 72209
A-17
-------
APPENDIX A
Summary
The most significant conclusion from the analysis of
current water water quality is that substantially all of the
waters located in the highly agriculturalized Mississippi
delta region of Arkansas do not now meet the 1983 aquatic
life and recreational water quality goals of the Federal
Water Pollution Act Amendments of 1972. Further, due to
the nature of the problems, it is considered unlikely that
the goals will be met in these waters by 1983 or any time in
the forseeable future (see Figures 1 and 2).
With the exception of the main stem of the White
River and the upper St. Francis River, none of the major
Arkansas delta streams meet all of the water quality
requirements for swimming and the propagation of desir-
able species of fish and aquatic life. In most cases, several of
the appropriate parameters are substantially in violation of
the minimum requirements. In particular, widespread viola-
tions of fecal coliform, dissolved oxygen and turbidity
standards occur, and significant contributions of-a variety
of pesticides are found, including endrin, dieldrin, DDT and
its metabolites, and toxaphene.
FIGURE 1
STREAMS OR SEGMENTS
NOT PRESENTLY MEETING
FISHING AND SWIMMING
1983 GOALS
A-18
-------
APPENDIX A
FIGURE 2
WATERS NOT CURRENTLY
SUPPORTING FISHING AND
SWIMMING BUT EXPECTED
TO BY 1983
In the remainder of the State's waters, 1983 water
quality goals are now being met or, with a few notable
exceptions, are expected to be met by 1983. A number of
streams or segments outside the delta are not now meeting
the goals due to fecal coliform or dissolved oxygen
problems related to point source discharges of inadequately
treated municipal sewage. These problems are expected to
be cleared up by 1983. Greatest improvements are expected
in the main stem of the Arkansas River, which has already
shown substantial water quality gains in recent years. Other
streams are affected by acid mine drainage or oil field brine
problems that will probably improve significantly by 1983
under current programs but will still not meet the stated
goals due to the nature of the pollutant input.
In streams where industrial waste discharges occur,
the improvements that have been or will be noted by
implementation of the best practicable control technology
(BPT) requirements of PL 92-500 are often quite signifi-
cant, but incremental improvements expected by going
from BPT to BAT (best available control ischnology) will
often be obscured because of non-point source pollutant
input to receiving waters. This is particularly true of
industries discharging to south Arkansas streams affected
by oil field brines.
Little detailed information is available on the
eutrophication potential of Arkansas' lakes. When the
results of the 1974 National Eutrophication Survey become
available, they will be included in future editions of this
A-19
-------
APPENDIX A
report. In general, however, the large clearwater impound-
ments in Arkansas contain good to excellent quality water
but are, in some cases, threatened by rapid and uncontrolled
shoreline development, particularly when inadequate
methods of domestic waste disposal are used.
Regular water quality monitoring is presently
performed on approximately 6,150 miles of the State's
potentially fishable, swimmable streams. This total includes
all of the major streams of the State. From a purely water
quality standpoint, all of these streams would be suitable
for the above uses in the absence of man's influences.
However, considering the present effects of man's in-
fluences on the quality of these waters, it is projected that
4,450 miles, or 72 percent, will meet the 1983 goals of PL
92-500. This leaves 1,700 miles, or 28 percent, that will not
meet the goals, generally because of non-point source
pollution.
In 1974, a sewerage works "needs" survey for
Arkansas was completed. The total amount needed for the
correction of all categories of sewerage problems was
calculated to be $1,336,858,000.
There are 351 Arkansas towns without any type of
sewer system, representing a population of 72,248.
Approximately 25 of these communities either have plans
completed or construction plans under way for new sewage
collection and treatment systems.
There have been very few data collected as yet on the
type of treatment needed and costs necessary to meet the
best practicable treatment technology (BPT) and best
available treatment technology (BAT) requirements for
industrial dischargers in 1977 and 1983, respectively.
Possibly an industrial treatment costs questionnaire would
be the best way to produce this information, and this
method will be undertaken if necessary for inclusion in
future reports.
There are three major groups of industries in
Arkansas that are significant both for the number of people
employed and for their polluting potential. These include
the food products industry, the forestry-related products
industry, and the chemical products and petroleum refining
industry. Rough treatment cost estimates were made on
various segments of these industries; however, these at best
provide only vague indications of total costs.
Recent proposals have been made by EPA relative to
permit requirements for point source discharges from
concentrated feedlots, silvicultural activities and agricul-
tural operations, including irrigation return flows. As yet
we have no information on control costs for these point
sources. It might be noted, however, that the establishment
of permit requirements for agricultural discharges, such as
irrigation return flows and fish farming operations, will
have considerable impact in terms of administrative costs
alone in a highly agriculturalized state such as Arkansas,
with concomitant benefits being rather unlikely.
Information on non-point source control costs is
totally lacking. The implementation of Section 208 plan-
ning should produce such information.
An assessment of social and economic benefits
resulting from pollution control programs must first con-
sider the many aspects of recreation found in and on the
waters of the State. There are approximately 10,000 miles
of fishable streams and 600,000 acres of man-made and
natural lakes in Arkansas. During 1973, 437,081 resident
fishing licenses were sold in the State. In 1975, 95,757
trout stamps were issued, and the State ranked 7th
nationally by selling 201,348 non-resident fishing licenses.
There are 32 state parks in Arkansas, most of which
feature water-based recreational facilities. In 1975,
6,943,000 people visited these parks. There are an esti-
mated 300,000 boats on Arkansas' waters, with boating
activities including fishing, sailing, waterskiing and canoe-
ing. During 1975, over 34 million people visited the 20 U.S.
Corps of Engineers recreational facilities in the State. It is
entirely obvious that water-based recreation provides vast
economic and social benefits to the people of Arkansas, and
that prevention and control of water pollution is a
significant factor in preserving and enhancing these
benefits.
In 1975, as a result of water pollution control
programs, the classification of two streams was upgraded to
permit body contact recreation where such had previously
been undesirable due to pollution. Also, two tertiary
treatment facilities were completed, which discharge to the
watershed of the Buffalo National River, providing a
considerable measure of protection for this unique and
immensely valuable natural treasure.
The evalution of non-point source water pollution in
Arkansas and the development of control programs for the
various categories of such pollution is just now getting
started under the areawide wastewater management plan-
ning provisions of Section 208 of PL 92-500.
As mentioned previously, agricultural non-point
source pollution is the category of most significance in
Arkansas. The erosion control programs the U.S. Soil
Conservation Service, if completely implemented, would
result in considerable improvement in the quality of runoff
from agricultural watersheds, but it is questionable whether
this program alone would allow water quality goals to be
met. This would, however, be an important step, and we
would welcome the solution of the financial problems that
have retarded implementation of this program.
The severity of non-point source pollution from the
widespread silvicultural activities in Arkansas is an area of
considerable question and controversy. Representatives of
all aspects of forestry interests as well as the general public
have considered the problem and recommended specific
steps to define and control the problems that are found to
exist. The formation of a research task force for this and
other areas of non-point source pollution is being con-
sidered as a part of the Section 208 planning program.
Acid mine drainage continues to be a problem in the
bauxite mining areas of Arkansas and in other very
localized areas. Control efforts are under way in the bauxite
areas that should alleviate the problems somewhat, but a
A-20
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APPENDIX A
thorough evaluation of the effects of these programs is not areas are Texarkana-Miller County, Little Rock-North Little
scheduled until the summer of 1978. Rock, Fort Smith and Pine Bluff.
Information on non-point source pollution related to Brine pollution from both point and non-point source
construction activities and urban runoff will be forth- pollution in the South Arkansas oil fields is a problem of
coming following completion of Section 208 studies planned long standing and will continue to be a problem for some
or in progress for the areas designated as having substantial time regardless of control efforts. Recent surveys of this
water quality control problems as a result of urban- area, however, have resulted in specific recommendations
industrial concentrations or other factors. These designated designed to minimize the problems as much as possible.
A-21
-------
APPENDIX A
Summary - State of California
Complete copies of the State of
California 305(b) Report can be
obtained from the State agency listed
below:
California State Water Resources Con-
trol Board
1416 Ninth St.
Sacramento, CA 95814
A-23
-------
APPENDIX A
Summary
The purpose of the Annual Water Quality Inventory
report is to present a summary of water quality conditions,
problems and control activities. The Inventory fulfills the
requirement of Section 305(b) of the Federal Water
Pollution Control Act Amendments of 1972 (PL 92-500).
Rather than attempt an exhaustive survey and re-
production of all water quality data gathered in water year
1975 (October 1974-September 1975), a task which would
duplicate the efforts of numerous local, State and Federal
agencies, conditions on selected water bodies have been
highlighted.
Historical data for five major representative rivers are
presented in Chapter 3 to portray long-term water quality
trends. These rivers, the Klamath, Sacramento, San
Joaquin, Truckee and Colorado, are each indicators of
water quality conditions in important areas of California.
Actual data obtained at stations on each of the Priority I
rivers are tabulated in Appendix A to this report. In
addition, the history of Regional Board activities to
improve water quality in San Francisco Bay, Los Angeles-
Long Beach harbors and San Diego Bay is highlighted.
Analysis of water quality data for 1975 indicates that
conditions in California are generally outstanding and water
quality usually meets standards, as shown in Chapter 4.
Water quality problems do exist, however, and summarized
descriptions of these problems are presented in Chapter 5.
The number and severity of water quality problems caused
by point source discharges has markedly decreased in the
last several years, due primarily to the enforcement
activities under the State's Porter-Cologne Act and the
stimulus to facility construction provided by grants from
the State's Clean Water Bond Fund and from Federal
construction grant funds.
The major water quality problems facing the State of
California in the next decade will be the most difficult to
resolve. These are nonpoint source problems, which are
generally widespread geographically, difficult to define
exactly, and usually the result of long-held land use
practices. Examples are: Sediment and debris washed into
streams as a result of logging practices; groundwater
mineralization; increasing salinity in the Colorado River
which supplies water to large areas of southern California;
increasing salinity of the Salton Sea, endangering fish life
and the local recreation industry; and seawater intrusion
into formerly usable groundwater aquifers at numerous
points along the coastline. These problems are often due to
complex causes which have their roots in historically
institutionalized practices. Solutions will often be prohibit-
ively expensive, as well as politically difficult to achieve.
However, these are the major issues which the State and
Regional Boards must confront and resolve in order to
make significant progress in solving problems related to the
quality of California's waters.
The cost of achieving the national water quality
objectives established in PL 92-500 will be staggeringly
high. Estimates of the costs of meeting Federal objectives
for treatment of municipal sanitary sewage and storm water
are contained in Chapter 6. A total of 1.6 billion in grants
has been committed from State and federal funding sources
for constructing municipal sewerage facilities. The total
estimated cost of municipal projects needed to meet
Federal 1977 waste treatment standards is 4.2 billion.
A brief summary of the impact on the environment
of wastewater treatment facility construction and imple-
mentation of the control measures necessary to successfully
attach the larger non-point source problems is presented in
Chapter 7.
A-24
-------
APPENDIX A
Summary - State of Connecticut
Complete Copies of the State of
Connecticut 305(b) Report can be
obtained from the State agency listed
below:
Division of Water Compliance and
Hazardous Substances
Department of Environmental Protection
165 Capitol Avenue
Hartford, CT 06115
A-25
-------
APPENDIX
Executive Summary
Water Quality Monitoring
The State of Connecticut presently operates two
types of monitoring programs. These two programs are
dissimilar in nature because they have been established for
different purposes.
The first program is the short-term intensive water
quality program which generates a large volume of water
quality data during a relatively short period of time (several
days). The purpose of this data is to provide a "complete
description" of water quality in a critical stream segment
during critical conditions (lowflow and hightemperature).
The value of this program is that with the data generated by
this monitoring program, mathematical representations of
water quality reactions can be used to predict treatment
levels which will result in the achievement or the mainte-
nance of water quality standards.
The second program is the long-term or trend
monitoring program. The purpose of this program is to
monitor water quality over a long period so that water
quality trends may be discovered. The value of this program
is that documentation of water quality changes provides the
basis of evaluating the effectiveness of water pollution
control programs, and indicates a need for redirection or
expansion of current water pollution control efforts.
Long-term Trend Monitoring
In 1967, a long-term trend monitoring network or
primary monitoring network was established. This network
consisted of 96 stations throughout the State. Sample
collection and analysis were accomplished during the
spring, summer and fall for a total of three samples per
station per year. Parametric coverage consisted of physical,
chemical, and bacteriological parameters. This network has
been replaced by a new monitoring network which was
initiated in July, 1973.
The monitoring network, started in July, 1973,
consists of 43 stations in the entire State. Samples are
collected monthly and are analyzed for physical, chemical,
and bacteriological parameters. Additionally, sediment
samples are anafyzed once per year. This network is
expected to be increased to 90 stations as funding becomes
available. Table 1 lists the physical and chemical parameters
being monitored. In addition to the physical, chemical and
bacteriological parameters, the State is also monitoring
biological communities. At present, there are 30 biological
stations in Connecticut. The inclusion of biological moni-
toring is a necessary advancement in the monitoring
program since Connecticut's Water Quality Standards
state: "The water shall be free from chemical constituents
in concentrations or combinations which would be harmful
to human, animal, or aquatic life..."
Without biological data to relate the chemical data to
the biological communities, compliance or non-compliance
with the above requirement could not adequately be
determined.
TABLE 1
PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL PARAMETERS
MEASURED BY U.S. GEOLOGICAL SURVEY
UNDER CONNECTICUT'S PRESENT
LONG-TERM MONITORING PROGRAM
Date
Time
Salinity (ppt)
Instantaneous discharge (cfs)
Dissolved manganese
Dissolved iron
Dissolved copper
Dissolved calcium
Dissolved zinc
Dissolved magnesium
Dissolved sulfate
Dissolved chloride
Total phosphorous
Dissolved ammonia nitrogen
Total nitrite plus nitrate
Organic nitrogen
Total Kjeidahl nitrogen
Total nitrogen (N)
Total nitrate (N03)
Total organic carbon
Air temperature
Dissolved oxygen
Percent saturation
Weather
Immediate coliform
Fecal coliform
Streptococci (fecal)
MBAS
Color
Turbidity
Oil and grease
Cyanide
Chlorophyll 11-A
Chlorophyll 11-B
Floating algae mats (severity)
pH
Bicarbonate (HC03)
Carbonate (COS)
Alkalinity as CAC03
Hardness (Ca, Mg)
Non-carbonate hardness
Specific conductance
Total residue
Floating debris (severity)
A-26
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APPENDIX A
_ In addition to the biological sampling and analyses,
the following are being provided:
1. An extensive literature survey of existing data
collected by Federal agencies, universities and
private organizations for each body of water
samples. The survey will cover physical
characteristics and land use characteristics.
2. Sampling reports which will contain a
discussion of composition complexity, stability,
and productivity of each biological community
and detailed interpretation of the significance
of these factors with respect to water quality
impacts from local land use patterns and direct
pollution loadings.
3. An evaluation of the program and program
redesign recommendations.
4. A study to determine the most effective
manner in which the Department of
Environmental Protection can absorb and
continue the monitoring program at the end of
the contractual period.
5. A field and classroom training program.
6. A reference library.
7. Reference collections.
8. Field and laboratory equipment.
Linear Regression Analysis
The data gathered by the State's long-term trend
monitoring network were used to make an analysis which
would discern any statistically valid trends over the period
of record. The linear regression analysis uses a time-
dependent variable (along with other variables such as flow
and temperature), to identify trends in the data.
The findings of this study overwhelmingly indicate
that water quality in the State of Connecticut is improving.
Of the 92 tests performed, 67 or 73 percent show signs of
improvement. Of these 35, 40 percent show improvement
at the 90 percent level of confidence and 35 tests show that
the rate of improvement is significant.
Also, of importance is the finding that of the 92 tests
performed only 5 percent show signs of degradation.
As the data base improves and expands in terms of
the number of measurements, it is expected that the data
will show stronger trends. Most of these trends are already
in the direction of improvement. As more measurements
are available the trend of improvement should be strength-
ened.
Most of the improvement which this study reveals is
due to the control of point source pollution through the
application of best practicable wastewater treatment
technology. As the State Water Pollution Control Program
progresses to application of advanced waste treatment
systems and, as necessary, control of non-point source
pollution, improvement in water quality can be expected to
continue.
Basin Planning-Section 303(e)
The phase I basin planning process in Connecticut
will culminate in June, 1976 witb the submittal of the
remaining draft basin plans covering the entire State. These
plans will include loading allocations for water quality
limited segments where feasible. Load allocations for more
complex systems or systems with incomplete data bases are
still being analyzed. These basin plans will then be
incorporated into the annual State strategy for water
pollution control.
Area-wide Waste Treatment Management Plan-
ning-Section 208
Connecticut submitted an application in May of 1975
for an $8.9 million statewide Section 208 program. This
program was not funded by the EPA and the State has
initiated a legal action to obtain the funds. (NOTE: In
1976, the state was awarded a $1 million Section 208 grant
at 75 percent EPA funding).
Facilities Planning—Section 201
The general cost breakdown for Section 201 con-
struction grants is given in the report. Specific grants by
municipality are given in Appendix E of the report, the
Construction Grants List. Advanced waste treatment grant
allocations reflect load allocation analysis from completed
Section 303(e) plans.
NPDES Permit Program-Section 402
In 1975 there were 214 NPDES permits issued. This
brings the total permits issued since 1974 to 589. Of the
cumulative total, 85 major municipal permits were issued in
1974 and 40 minor municipal permits were issued in
1974-75. The remainder of the permits (464) are non-
municipal.
Past Activities
Connecticut began a statewide program of compre-
hensive water pollution control in 1925 when it established
the State Water Commission. This commission established a
pollution abatement program in conjunction with the State
Department of Health. In 1957 the State Legislature
superseded this commission with the Water Resources
Commission. Connecticut drafted the Clean Water Act in
1967. This act called for the restoration of water quality
consistent wtih the uses and wishes of the State's citizens.
The subsequent water quality standards prepared by the
State in 1967, were approved in total by the Federal
government in 1970. These stream classifications were
revised in 1973 by the State to reflect water quality
improvements. The Water Resources Commission acted as
the State Water Pollution Control Agency until the present
Department of Environmental Protection was established
by the General Assembly in 1971.
Before 1972, the State's water quality goals did not
require a minimum standard of "B" for every stream in
A-27
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APPENDIX A
Connecticut. The new goals, in part a result of the 1972
Amendments, will have effects on future growth and
development patterns, due to the cost of attaining and
maintaining these goals. State programs for clean water
have attempted to address water quality problems which
result from many sources including septic system failures,
the discharge of inadequately treated domestic sewage and
industrial wastes, periodic raw sewage discharges resulting
from combined storm and sanitary sewer systems, and the
effects of groundwater and surface water inflow and
infiltration to sewers as well as those of urban runoff and
other "non-point" sources. Much of the momentum gained
under Connecticut's Clean Water Program initiated in 1967
was reduced when the State could no longer pre-finance
water pollution control projects. The momentum was
further reduced due to several procedural requirements of
PL 92-500.
Progress
A survey was conducted in 1975 by the Water
Compliance Unit of DEP to determine the progress made in
upgrading water quality. The survey found that since 1967,
165 stream miles or 25 percent of all State streams
requiring upgrading have been improved to comply with the
1983 water quality goals. These improvements are mainly
attributable to the success of the State's program in
expanding and upgrading treatment plants to secondary
treatment providing extensions of sewer serve where
needed, eliminating or providing appropriate treatment of
industrial waste discharges and eliminating a number of raw
sewage discharges caused by sewer system infiltration and
combined storm and sanitary sewer systems.
A summary of water quality inventory indicates that
all basins suffer from non-point source pollution in varying
degrees. Large river basins with water quality limited
segments like the Connecticut River are hampered in
improvement efforts because of combined sewer and
non-point source problems. As basin plans are completed,
the State will develop its strategy for meeting these future
water quality needs. The progress of improving water
quality will depend largely on the levels of Federal
construction funding realized for this purpose especially
with respect to allocations for combined sewerage facility
correction which are presently non-existent and where
administration requirements limit the ability to realize
project goals with available funds.
A-28
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APPENDIX A
Summary - State of Delaware
Complete copies of the State of
Delaware 305(b) Report can be
obtained from the State agency listed
below:
Division of Environmental Control
Department of Natural Resources and
Environmental Control
Tatnall Building, Capitol Complex
Dover, DE 19901
A-29
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APPENDIX A
Summary
Delaware's streams are generally in very good condi-
tion. As reported last year, ten stream segments are already
meeting the 1983 goals of the Federal Water Pollution
Amendments of 1972. Four additional segments are
expected to meet these goals by next year. The remaining
seven should be able to meet the goals by 1983.
Most of Delaware's streams support the propagation
and maintenance of fish and wildlife. The major area where
this is not the case is the Delaware River from the State
Line to the vicinity of the Chesapeake and Delaware Canal
where pollution prevents some, though not all, species from
flourishing.
Improvements in this section of the river remain
dependent upon the upgrading of major industrial and
municipal treatment facilities upstream in the States of
Pennsylvania and New Jersey. The elimination and/or
control of point sources in the stream basins have high-
lighted non-point sources which include pollution of man-
made origin from urban and industrial areas, and that of
natural origin such as wildlife and waterfowl. During the
remainder of this decade, Delaware will concentrate on
quantifying the effect of the non-point source problems
and attempt optimum control strategy. Completion of
Section 208 Plans by areawide waste management agencies
will assist the State in this effort. An evaluation of the
State's water quality is presented in Table 1 at the end of
this summary.
The United States Environmental Protection Agency
(EPA) has delegated its authority to the Department of
Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC)
for issuing National Pollution Discharge Elimination System
(NPDES) permits. These permits establish a timetable for
meeting the State and Federal requirements of best
practicable technology by July 1, 1977. Some municipal
waste discharges cannot meet the deadline because con-
struction, although underway, will not be completed by
that date. The permit requirements have also eliminated a
number of discharges which are now connected to waste-
water collection and treatment systems or converted to
another type of discharge, e. g., spray irrigation.
Delaware's Water Quality Management Program is a
continuing one and recognizes that issuance of permits
alone does not mean achievement of all standards. It takes
years for plans and programs to be put into effect and, once
completed, additional time is needed for the various stream
segments to recover. In some estuaries it may not be
possible to meet shellfish and swimming criteria for total
and fecal coliforms because of the substantial migratory
bird population.
The State has a continuing concern with ground
water quality degradation and is taking forceful action to
prevent it. The experience with landfalls that have resulted
in aquifer contamination has led to the establishment of
strict, new standards for such disposal methods. Both their
location and construction are carefully regulated. The
expanding population of Delaware has also increased the
demand for septic tank use and this, too, is being carefully
scrutinized and regulated.
Delaware also faces eutrophication problems in most
of its lakes and ponds. The Department has cooperated
with the EPA in the National Eutrophication Survey of
Selected Ponds in the State of Delaware.
Another problem enumerated last year is the en-
croachment of urban development along the shores of the
inland bays. The growth rate of such development has been
slowed because of economic conditions, but the potential
exists for accelerated growth with the improvement of the
economy.
The cost estimates for wastewater treatment facilities
have not changed from last year's report. Many water and
related land use activities will, it is hoped, reduce the total
costs through non-structure control programs.
In order to provide a uniform basis for various
planning activities a special consortium of planners repre-
senting all interested parties was created to study popula-
tion projection procedures. This effort has resulted in a new
population forecast for the coming decade which will be
used by all agencies.
This summarizes Delaware's problems and its plans to
cope with them as we move to make all of our water
quality compatible with the goals established by Congress.
A-30
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APPENDIX A
TABLE 1
1975 SEGMENT EVALUATION
Segment description Segment number Classification WQL/EL State priority Evaluation of water quality
Naaman's Creek
Brandywine Creek
White Clay Creek
Upper Christina
Lower Christina
Red Lion Creek
Chesapeake & Delaware Canal
Blackbird-Appoquinimink
Chesapeake Drainage System
Smyrna River
Leipsic River
St. Jones River
Choptank River
MurderkiH River
Mispillion River
Cedar Creek
Broadkill River
Nanticoke River
Indian River
Little Assawoman
Buntings Branch
Delaware River - River Mile 78.8 to river
59.5 to river
Delaware Bay
Atlantic Ocean
1
2
3
4
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
mile 59.5
mile 48.2
EL
EL
EL
WQL
EL
WQL
WQL
EL
EL
EL
EL
EL
EL
EL
EL
EL
WQL
WQL
WQL
EL
EL
15
12
7
1
1
10
9
4
19
11
14
6
20
13
16
17
8
3
2
5
18
III
I
II
II
III
II
I
II
I
II
II
II
I
II
II
II
III
I
I
II
III
III
II
I
I
NOTE: A detailed assessment of each segment is provided in the text of the report.
KEY:
I ~ Waters of good to excellent water quality which basically meets all water quality criteria with only minor, infrequent violations of
water quality standards.
II - Waters of fair to good water quality which periodically have some problems in one or more water quality criteria.
Ill - Waters in which there is perennial problem in meeting one or more water quality criteria. Most of these are tidal waters impacted
by the natural process of the estuarine system.
A-31
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APPENDIX A
Summary - District of Columbia
Complete copies of the District of
Columbia 305(b) Report can be
obtained from the State Agency listed
below:
Department of Environmental Services
Water Resources Management Admin-
istration
415-12th St. NW Room 307
Washington, D. C. 20004
A-33
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APPENDIX A
This report represents the first annual update of the
305(b) Report for the District of Columbia. It is an
appendix to the 1975 305(b) Report issued in April 1975.
As an appendix, this report details only progress and
problems the District has had in implementing the provi-
sions of the 1972 Federal Water Pollution Control Act (PL
92-500) in the past year. Information concerning previous
water quality trends and historical aspects of the problems
,the District faces can be found in the 1975 305(b) Report.
Construction Progress at
Blue Plains Wastewater
Treatment Plant
Much progress has been made toward the implemen-
tation of full secondary treatment at Blue Plains. During
1975, contracts for additional secondary treatment facili-
ties achieved 90 percent completion. Contracts on solids
processing, primary flow metering, the chemical building,
the multi-media filtration facility, and the central opera-
tions facility were in progress all year. All of these contracts
are approaching completion. Contracts for nitrification
sedimentation, instrumentation, and expansion of a raw
wastewater pumping station were initiated in 1975. These
contracts were 28 percent, 36 percent, 5 percent, and 2
percent complete respectively at the year's end.
Construction during 1975 was slowed by a six-month
labor strike. As a result, construction slipped about six
months behind schedule. Completion of all construction is
now scheduled for late 1978, with facilities coming on line
in mid-1979.
NPDES Permit Program
The District has not elected to seek the authority to
issue NPDES Permits. The District, however, has retained
certification authority. Authority and responsibility for
issuing the permits lies with the EPA. The EPA issued no
permits to industrial or commercial discharges in the
District during 1975.
Monitoring Program
The D.C. Department of Environmental Services'
(DES) Bureau of Wastewater Treatment's monitoring
program remained unchanged throughout 1975. Results
were circulated and monthly summaries released. Some
biological sampling was done in cooperation with William
T. Mason of the Interstate Commission on the Potomac
River Basin. Biological sampling will be upgraded in 1976,
with the addition of a biologist to the Bureau of
Wastewater Treatment laboratory staff.
In addition to the sampling program of the Bureau of
Wastewater Treatment, the DES, Bureau of Air and Water
v Quality Control sampled 24 stations in free flowing
streams, including Rock Creek. The number of stations was
reduced to 10 in 1976. Samples are collected monthly and
processed at the Bureau of Wastewater Treatment's Blue
Plains Laboratory. Due to a lack of staff. Rock Creek
samples were not taken during January, February, May,
July, August, and November.
During 1975, work started on the formulation of
PEP, a comprehensive monitoring plan for the Potomac
Estuary. The Interstate Commission on the Potomac Basin
was requested to formulate a monitoring program which
would address two major issues: First, changes in water
quality which occur as the result of improvements in area
wide waste treatment in the absence of denitrification at
Blue Plains; and second, data required for the calibration
and verification of mathematical models capable of predict-
ing the additional improvements which would occur in
estuarine water quality if denitrification were to be
implemented at Blue Plains. The results of PEP will be
integrated with the District's Water Quality Monitoring
Program in 1976.
Sludge Disposal
Disposal of Blue Plains sewage sludge, both raw and
digested, has been and will continue to be one of the most
serious, difficult, and complex problems facing water
pollution control efforts in the District. During 1975, a
court-ordered agreement specifying the responsibilities of
each of the jurisdictions using the Blue Plains facility, with
regard to sludge disposal, want into effect. Daily operations
of the trenching of sludge have gone relatively smoothly
under the provisions of that agreement.
Trenching, however, cannot continue to be the
method of choice for sludge disposal much longer. One
prime reason for this is the large amount of land which will
be required to hold the increasing daily volume of sludge to
be produced at Blue Plains. Some 600 acres/year would be
required for the 1980 production of 1,800 wet tons/day.
Further, since the disposal sites are not to be used for other
purposes for a minimum of five years, a minimum of 3,000
acres would be required on a continuing basis. An
investment of this size is impractical given the current value
of land in the metropolitan area.
Attempts at providing viable alternative methods of
sludge disposal have been stymied because of the other
environmental problems they may create. A pilot facility
designed to produce a commercial soil builder from the
sludge has run afoul of stringent air pollution control
requirements. Incineration also contributes to the air
pollution problem and is quite costly, and also could
contribute to violations of Federal Ambient Air Quality
Standards. Composting of the raw sludge seems to be
technically feasible and financially attractive, if a market
for the compost can be found. However, no real marketing
to test salability can take place untit the necessary
approvals are obtained and health permits are issued.
A-34
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APPENDIX A
The Blue Plains Technical Committee, in response to
the court requirement that agreement be reached on a
permanent solution to the sludge problem by July 1,1976,
has been developing a program which would provide such a
solution. No final agreement was reached in 1975. When
such an agreement is reached it will balance the risks and
benefits of the alternatives outlined above.
Non-point Source Programs
Through 1975, the District sought EPA approval for
an engineering study of treatment alternatives for combined
sewage overflows. As of this writing, approval for the study
has been given, but contracts have not been signed.
The District has been participating in the develop-
ment of non-point source studies by the Metropolitan
Washington Resources Planning Board (WRPB) for the
Section 208 planning program. As presently conceived,
these studies should provide a firm estimate of the amounts
of non-point source pollutants contributed to the estuary
by land in various kinds of use. Pollutant loadings will also
be related to type, frequency, and duration of storms.
Primary data for the study will be gathered in the
Occoquon a'nd Four Mile Run watersheds of Northern
Virginia, directly across the Potomac from the District.
Demonstration of the applicability of the results of the
Northern Virginia studies to other jurisdictions in the
metropolitan area will be accomplished by using the
Northern Virginia data to preduct pollutant loadings for
watersheds in Montgomery County, Maryland, and then
comparing those predictions to actual data to be taken in
the same Montgomery County watersheds.
The WRPB studies, in conjunction with the District's
combined sewer.engineering study will provide the neces-
sary data base for formulating a rational, efficient, coordi-
nated program for non-point source controls in the metro-
politan area.
1975 Water Quality
Water Quality in the District's three major streams,
the Potomac, the Anacostia, and Rock Creek will be
discussed seperately.
Potomac River
With the exception of coliform bacteria, water
quality in the Potomac mainstem of the District was quite
good. No nuisance algal blooms of note were recorded, and
dissolved oxygen problems, so prominent in the past seem
to have diminished. No violations of DO standards for the
mainstem were recorded in 1975. Water quality in the
Potomac mainstem was probably improved by the high
flows recorded in 1975.
Coliform measurements in the Potomac frequently
violated the District's standards. Because of this, the
Potomac did not meet the FWPCA 1983 goals of 'fishable
and swimmable water.
Anacostia River
Water quality in the Anacostia remains very poor.
Major problems are low dissolved oxygen and high coliform
levels. The extremely poor water quality in the Anacostia is
due both to the District's own urban and combined sewer
runoff and the high levels of pollutants entering the District
from the Anacostia tributaries in Maryland.
Rock Creek
Very scanty data are available from Rock Creek for
1975. No creditable conclusions as to water quality trends
can therefore be drawn. Few dissolved oxygen problems
seem to exist, coliform counts are quite high, and
suspended solids are quite variable, as is to be expected in a
small urban stream.
Future Water Quality
As reported in the 1974 305(b) report, modeling
studies done for the National Commission on Water Quality
indicate that dissolved oxygen standards in the estuary will
be met when full secondary treatment facilities are on line
at Blue Plains. The 1975 Water Quality data gathered by
the District substantiates this conclusion.
Most of the District's remaining water quality prob-
lems are due to non-point sources of pollution, both in the
District and in the surrounding metropolitan area. The
Metropolitan WRPB is undertaking the responsibility for
Section 208 Planning in the metropolitan area. One of the
major responsibilities of the planning effort is to prepare an
areawide scheme for control of non-point source pollutants.
Until this plan is complete it is impossible to speculate on
the extent of future improvements in water quality
problems caused by non-point source pollutants.
Regardless of the plan formulated by the WRPB, the
control of non-point source pollutants in the Washington
Area is expected to be a difficult and complex task.
Therefore it is not anticipated that the 1983 water quality
goals of PL 92-500 will be met in the streams of the District
by 1983. In particular, bacteriological standards violations
will still likely occur, making swimming hazardous. In
addition, there will likely remain the potential for noxious
blooms of algae in the estuary. Large diurnal variations in
dissolved oxygen are likely as a result of such blooms, if
and when they occur, causing temporary but perhaps
critical violations of dissolved oxygen standards.
A-35
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APPENDIX A
Cost of Water
Pollution Control
Costs for water pollution control in the District
have risen markedly since the early 1950's. In fact, costs
per-million-gallons treated will have risen ten-fold when the
facilities currently under construction have been com-
pleted. This is largely due to the approximately 500 million
dollar capital cost of Blue Plains expansion. If denitrifica-
tion facilities are constructed, capital costs will rise yet
another hundred million. O&M costs for the Blue Plains
plant are estimated to be about 35 million per year without
denitrification, and over 46 million per year with denitrifi-
cation.
Costs for storm water treatment in the District
cannot be firmly estimated at this time, but could
conceivably be higher than 1 billion dollars. Since no
NPDES permits have been issued to industrial dischargers,
industrial waste treatment cost estimates are not available
at this time.
Obviously, such large costs will be hard for the
District's taxpayers to bear, even with Federal grants. The
District believes that the benefits to be derived from such
enormous proposed expenditures must be critically
examined.
A-36
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APPENDIX A
Summary - State of Florida
Complete copies of the State of
Florida 305(b) Report can be
obtained from the State agency listed
below:
Department of Pollution Control
2562 Executive Center Circle
Tallahassee, FL 32301
A-37
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APPENDIX A
Summary
The water resources of Florida are among the most
unique, valuable, and widespread of any State in the
Nation. The shoreline of Florida fronts on the Gulf of
Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean. Including saltwater rivers,
islands, bays, and sounds, the shoreline extends for nearly
11,000 linear miles. Inland waters include 1,711 named
streams ranging in length from 0.4 miles to 818 miles.
There are 7,712 named and unnamed lakes ranging in size
from one acre to almost one-half million acres. The only
living coral reef in the continental United States forms the
eastern barrier of the Florida Keys.
The wildlife resources of Florida are numerous and1
diverse. Commercially valuable fisheries harvest shellfish
and finfish. Water sports, including sport fishing, in
conjunction with the mild climate, act as attractions to the
millions of tourists who visit Florida annually.
Freshwater streams are being considered as potential
sources of potable water for the rapidly growing metro-
politan areas of southern Florida, and these same streams
are being proposed for impoundment and industrial
development. Maintaining the quality of its waters must be
a high priority of the State since the economy of Florida,
more than that of most other States, relies on activities
which are dependent upon the aesthetics and the natural
resources associated with plentiful supplies of clean, high
quality water.
Even though clean waters are an economic asset of
considerable value to the people of Florida, considerable
stresses have been placed on the aquatic systems of Florida
by industrial development and by the rapid, recent increase
in the population. (Florida's population has increased by
the greatest absolute number of any State in the past few
years, and it has been projected to double by 1985.)
Florida waters are polluted from several different sources.
Industrial polluters include agricultural processors, chemical
plants, paper mills, and electrical power plants. Domestic
wastes from households and wastes from smaller com-
mercial operations are discharged to the waters of the State
by sewage treatment plants, ocean outfalls, and septic tank
drainage. Pollutants not attributable to specific sources
include storm runoff from urban areas; drainage frpm
farms, forests, and mines; intrusion of saltwater into
depleted freshwater aquifers; and discharges from ports and
marinas. Another major source of pollution in Florida is
dredge and fill activities involving the destruction of
submerged lands and wetlands, disposal of dredged spoil,
and shoreline alteration.
This latter source of pollution is a particular problem
in Florida. Large numbers of people from other parts of the
country are retiring to Florida or are building vacation
houses here. This influx of people has contributed to large
demands for water-front property. This has been met by
land developments in which canals have been dredged
through wetlands and uplands, marshes have been filled,
and canal-front lots are constructed. These land use
practices have stressed the aquatic ecosystem by eliminating
natural drainage and allowing poor water quality conditions
to develop, by removing productive wetlands from the
ecosystem, by reducing the habitat available for larval fish
and shellfish, and by reducing the capacity of the wetlands
to filter pollutants from runoff. These problems taken
together make uncontrolled proliferation of canal systems
and shoreline alteration a serious long-term Florida water
quality problem. In the long term, these activities may have
the potential to damage or to destroy many of the
aesthetics and natural resources which originally attracted
retirees and vacationers to Florida.
More immediate water quality problems are related to
cultural eutrophication, the human-aided and abetted in-
crease in the rate of aging of a body of water. Data
presented in this report show that the levels of nutrients
(nitrogen and phosphorous) in almost every basin segment
in Florida are higher than the accepted norms. Secondary'
water quality problems demonstrated by data in this report
include low levels of dissolved oxygen and high populations
of coliform bacteria. More rarely, high levels of
phytoplankton are found.
The State of Florida has responded to the problem of
water pollution by adopting and implementing a number of
environmental protection statutes (e. g. Chapters 253, 373,
and 403, F. S.). In Florida, the Department of Environ-
mental Regulation is the administering agency for programs
under the Federal Water Pollution Control Act of 1972
(P L. 92-500). The goals of the Federal and State programs
are to manage discharge of domestic and industrial waste,
to control non-point source pollution, and to regulate the
alteration of bottoms and shorelines of State waters. The
State has also adopted minimum conditions for the quality
of its waters and has established a water quality classifica-
tion based on the uses of water bodies.
Point discharges of domestic and industrial wastes are
permitted under State and Federal (NPDES) programs.
Non-point source pollution will be managed by the State
and by the areawide 208 programs and by management
practices to reduce pollutants in runoff. The State has a
well-developed permitting system to require permits for
construction projects affecting submerged lands and wet-
lands. Such projects are evaluated for immediate and
long-term impacts on the aquatic ecosystem. These pro-
grams are.discussed in more detail in Chapters II and III of
this report.
Ten bodies of water in the State did not meet the
Class III water use criteria (safe recreation and fish and
wildlife) in 1975. Six of these waters are expected to be
consistently within these criteria by 1983. Maintaining and
enhanceing water quality in the waters of the State will
require more advanced treatment of domestic wastes,
control of non-point sources of pollution, and greater
protection of wetlands. These programs are necessary to
maintain the quality of the Florida environment, and they
will become even more urgent if the population increases as
rapidly as has been projected.
A-38
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APPENDIX A
Summary-- State of Georgia
Complete copies of the State of
Georgia 305(b) Report can be
obtained from the State agency listed
below:
Environmental Protection Division
Department of Natural Resources
270 Washington St., S.W.
Atlanta, GA 30334
A-39
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APPENDIX A
Summary
Current Water Quality and Trends
Most of Georgia's waters are of good quality. Since
there are more than 1,500 wastewater discharges from
municipalities, industries, and private developments in the
State, and since there are many non-point sources of
pollution which have significant effects on water quality,
the 130 water quality monitoring stations being operated
cannot assess adequately the effects of all point and
non-point sources of water pollution in the State. However,
monitoring stations are located on major streams at sites
which do not reflect much of the human impact on the
State's waterways. Based on this network of stations,
intensive stream surveys, operating reports from wastewater
treatments facilities, and other staff knowledge, water
quality in Georgia can be characterized as good or excellent
for approximately 90 percent of the estimated 20,000 total
miles of streams. Unfortunately, many of those streams not
meeting water quality standards are major ones where
significant water uses are adversely affected.
It is estimated that approximately 90 percent of all
the stream miles in Georgia were meeting fishing and
swimming water quality criteria in 1975. Less than 90
percent of the mileage of major streams met these criteria,
however. It is further estimated that some 5 percent of
Georgia's streams cannot meet the water quality criteria for
fishing or swimming due to natural conditions. These
waters include primarily the swamp-like streams of South
Georgia which exhibit naturally low dissolved oxygen, low
pH (acid), and high water temperatures during summer and
fall months. The fact that these natural waters in South
Georgia and other parts of the State do not meet fishing
and swimming criteria certainly does not mean that they
are not fishable and swimmable. People have recreated in
certain of these waters for years, and fish have thrived in
these streams for thousands of years.
As in past years, water quality criteria violated most
were those for dissolved oxygen and fecal coliform
bacteria. Suspended solids, originating from soil erosion
caused by man's land-disturbing activities, and the resultant
desposition of sediment in streams, continues to be the
largest water quality problem caused by non-point sources
of pollution. Significant water quality deterioration due to
heavy metals, pesticides, toxins, acidity, and alkalinity were
not observed in Georgia in 1975.
Major problem areas in the State during 1975
continue to be the South River downstream from the City
of Atlanta and DeKalb County; the Flint River downstream
from Atlanta, College Park, and Clayton County; and the
Chattahoochee River downstream from Fulton County,
Cobb County, and Atlanta. There continue to be periodic
water quality standards violations downstream from urban/
industrial areas such as Albany, Athens, Augusta, Bruns-
wick, Columbus, Dalton, Macon, Rome, Savannah, and
Valdosta.
The trend-monitoring program has shown that the
water quality is stable at most of the 130 stations around
the State and that definite improvement trends are occuring
at a number of stations. No downward trends of water
quality have been documented.
Water Quality Goals
The Federal goal of having all waters in the United
States meet fishing and swimming criteria by 1983 will not
be accomplished in Georgia. Certain streams in the State
will not be able to meet thse criteria due to their heavily
urbanized watersheds which result in poor quality urban
runoff; other streams are so small in relation to the
amounts of wastewater discharged into them that it will be
economically and perhaps technically impossible for some
discharges to provide sufficiently high degrees of treatment
to allow water quality standards to be met.
It is not possible to predict the locations where and
extend to which human influence will prevent waters in
Georgia from meeting the 1983 Federal goal of meeting
fishing and swimming standards, but it is believed that
those stream segments unable to meet the standards in
1983 will be less than 19 percent of the total stream miles
in the State, if sufficient Federal construction grant
allocations are provided for municipal wastewater treat-
ment needs between now and then. The estimated 5
percent of all stream miles in Georgia which cannot meet
fishing and swimming water quality criteria due to natural
conditions will not change. There are at least two dozen
industries discharging treated wastewater to streams so small
that it is fairly certain that levels of treatment in excess of
best availabletechnology economically achievable (BAT) will
be required if the streams are to meet fishing criteria. There
are some 166 municipally owned wastewater treatment
facilities presently discharging to stream segments where
levels of treatment higher than secondary are needed in
order to meet water quality standards. Facilities Planning
under the Federal grants program should be completed for
nearly all of these municipal discharges by the end of 1977;
this planning will determine what needs to be done and
how much it will cost to solve these water quality
problems. Until the planning is completed, it will not be
known to what extent these municipalities can financially
and administratively implement programs to achieve water
quality standards.
Effects of Control Programs on Water Quality
Georgia's water quality control programs for point
sources of wastewater are currently based on the following
strategies:
1. Require municipalities to use PL 92-500 grants
for construction of treatment facilities where
needed to upgrade the quality of municipal
effluents to secondary treatment standards or
higher treatment standards where required by
water quality in receiving streams; and
A-40
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APPENDIX A
2. Require all industrial dischargers to meet Best
Practicable Technology (BPT) treatment stan-
dards or higher treatment standards where
required by water quality in receiving streams.
Municipal grants are awarded in accordance with
Georgia'a construction grants priority system with the
highest priorities being put on solving the most serious
water pollution problems. Only about 1.5 percent of all
municipal wastewater generated in the State is receiving
primary treatment or no treatment, but in many cases
existing treatment facilities do not meet the Federal
effluent guidelines and/or do not provide treatment suffi-
cient to meet water quality standards. Eighty-four of
Georgia's 106 major industrial dischargers were in various
stages of design or construction of BPT facilities. Of 455
minor industrial dischargers in Georgia, it is estimated that
about 50 percent were providing BPT for their wastewaters
at the end of 1975.
A number of significant water quality improvements
were seen in major streams around the State in 1975 as a
result of the State's control programs. The Lower Savannah
River showed no dissolved oxygen violations at the Fort
Jackson monitoring site for the first year of record (i. e.,
the period of years over which official water quality data
have been collected), due to completion of treatment
facilities at all major sources of organic wastewater. Water
quality in the Ocmulgee River improved substantially as a
result of the start-up of Macon's Rocky Creek water
pollution control plant. Only two violations of dissolved
oxygen criteria were found at the Ocmulgee River auto-
matic monitor downstream of Macon during 1975, as
compared with 144 violations in 1974. Water quality in the
Conasauga River at Tilton downstream from Dalton contin-
ues to show an upward trend due to that City's water
pollution control programs. Again, 1975 was the first year
of record in which no dissolved oxygen violations were
found at the Tilton monitoring site.
Substantial improvements in the quality of the
Chattahoochee River are expected in 1976 since construc-
tion will finally be completed on the City of Atlanta's
R. M. Clayton treatment plant and improved operations are
expected at the other major treatment facilities discharging
to the River. Current control programs underway in DeKalb
and Clayton Counties and the City of Atlanta will
significantly improve the quality of the South and Flint
Rivers in 1979 with completion of the advanced wastewater
systems currently being planned. The quality of the Lower
Savannah River will be increased even further with the
completion of water pollution facilities for the American
Cyanamid Company. Many other improvements less signifi-
cant than these previously named will occur around the
State within the next several years.
Non-point Source Pollution
Control of non-point source pollution was a low
priority with the State Water Quality Control Section prior
to 1975. During 1975, the Water Quality Control Section
initiated a statewide non-point source pollution assessment.
The assessment will be completed during the next two years
and the State will establish priorities and control strategies
for non-point sources as a part of the continuing planning
process. The Erosion and Sedimentation Act passed during
the 1975 session of the Georgia Legislature provides for the
establishment and implementation of a statewide compre-
hensive soil erosion and sediment control program. The
State Environmental Protection Division and local govern-
ments are given certain mandates to promulgate and
enforce ordinances for the control of erosion and sediment-
ation. This will be an integral part of the State's control
programs for non-point sources of water pollution.
Costs and Benefits
In 1975, $75.7 million" were obligated by local, state,
and federal governments for municipal wastewater projects
in Georgia, thus satisfying about 7 percent of the $1.1
billion of needs projected in the 1974 National Needs
Survey for improvements to wastewater treatment plants
and construction of new interceptor sewers, force mains,
and pumping stations. The 1974 needs estimates were for
facilities to meet existing stream standards, but some of the
existing standards are lower than those for fishing and
swimming. The 1974 Needs Survey covers only capital costs
for building municipal wastewater treatment facilities; it
does not reflect municipal operating costs which were in
the tens of millions of dollars during 1975 and which can
only increase in the future. Therefore, the total costs of
meeting the Federal goals will far exceed the estimates
made in the Needs Survey.
It is estimated that Georgia's industries have expen-
ded more that $225 million since 1965 to reach the levels
of treatment provided for industrial wastewaters today, and
an additional $50 million will be spent by these industries
to achieve BPT by 1977. If industries are required to
upgrade treatment to BAT, it is estimated that they will
have to spend an additional $200 to $250 million.
At this time, it is not possible to quantify the social
and economic benefits of water pollution control programs
already completed and to be accomplished in the future. It
was learned in 1975 that fish were returning to areas of the
Lower Savannah River where they had not been in many
years. Successful fishing in the Conasauga River down-
stream from Dalton's wastewater discharge was also
reported-a vast improvement over conditions five years
ago. It will be difficult to quantify the benefits of
improvements in fishing and recreation opportunities that
will accrue throughout the State as a result of the present
water quality control efforts, but they will continue to
accrue. A method for quantifying benefits is needed.
Recommendations
The Congress should delay for at least 5 to 10 years
A-41
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APPENDIX A
the requirement for industries to reach BAT. The effects of
current water pollution control programs should be seen
before decisions are made requiring more treatment. The
Congress should continue to provide a significant level of
funding ($5-$7 billion per year) for the PL 92-500
construction grants program with a fair and equitable
allocation formula for at least another five years, or it will
be impossible for substantial additional progress to be made
in Georgia toward making all waters meet fishable and
swimmable criteria. The Federal grant share must continue
at the 75 percent level to enable local governments to
finance required improvements and establish the necessary
operation and maintenance programs with local funds.
The 1977 deadline should be extended on a case-by-
case basis for publicly owned systems as construction grants
funds are made available. Also, the certification of states to
administer the construction grants program should be
authorized by the Congress with adequate financial support
to enable the states to conduct an efficient and effective
program. In addition, the combination of Step 2 and Step 3
grants into one grant would expedite the program.
A-42
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APPENDIX A
Summary - Guam
Complete copies of the Guam 305(b)
Report can be obtained from the
State agency listed below:
Guam Environmental Protection Agency
Box 2999
Agana, Guam 96910
A-43
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APPENDIX A
Summary
Guam's overall water quality changed little between
the time of our first report to the Congress (April 1975)
and this year's. Between May 20-22, 1976, Typhoon
Pamela struck the Island with winds up to 190 mph. This
storm was a mixed blessing vis-a-vis environmental impact.
In near-shore reef areas and estuaries, sediments were
washed ashore or further out to sea, thus 'cleaning' the
waters and making them less turbid. However, expansion of
eroded areas in southern Guam occured due to the heavy
accompanying rains. In addition, the stripping of most of
the Island's vegetation made these areas more fire prone,
resulting in several extensive grass fires, particularly in the
Umatac Area. The largest impact from a water quality point
of view, however, may be the thrust the storm gave to the
local construction and development industry due to the
infusion of large amounts of Federal aid. Many of these
future projects will no doubt carry with them the asso-
ciated impacts of erosion and siltation and generation of
polluted stormwater.
Bacterial pollution and heavy sediment loads contin-
ues to characterize Guam's central and southern rivers,
particularly the Umatac, Asan, Agana, and Pago. Problems
of uncontrolled sewage discharges from cesspools, pit
privies, and direct drainage into rivers account for a large
number of violations. The continued poor quality of the
Pago River is attributable to the sporadic operation and
maintenance of the Yona Sewage Treatment Plant and the
poor location of its outfall.
Extensive clearing and grading, coupled with areas of
natural erosion, have increased turbidity levels in some river
basins. Although Islandwide permits for clearing and
grading dropped considerably from 1974-5 because of the
lull in construction activity, the erosional effects of the
typhoon, both immediate and long-range, have offset this
reduction.
The percentage of Island homes with improper
sewage disposal or septic tank systems has declined some-
what due to the gradual elimination of substandard
dwellings through urban renewal and a movement toward
construction of permanent concrete dwellings by Island
residents. Coordination between the Guam Environmental
Protection Agency (GEPA) and the Federal Housing Ad-
ministration has helped to check the number of new homes
with improper sewage disposal systems. In addition, the
increased activity in interceptor sewage construction in
Mangilao, Chalan Pago/Ordot, Barrigada, and Maite will
make sewers available to many more homes.
Although actual changes in water quality were not
evident, several events have occured within the past year
which may have a substantial beneficial impact on water
quality in the future.
After several months of negotiation, on January 9,
1976 Gillham, Koebig and Koebig, consultants for the
Government of Guam, were authorized to work on an
Islandwide Wastewater Facilities Plan. This effort is the
initial step in the provision of sewage collection lines, and
treatment to Guam's southern villages, and the expansion
and upgrading of existing lines in the north. Public hearings
were held in March 1976 in the villages of Umatac and
Merizo to present alternative plans for these villages.
Additional hearings are scheduled for Inarajan and Talofofo
in July and August 1976. The entire effort is due for
completion by April 1, 1977.
On November 13, 1975, at the combined request of
GEPA, Bureau of Planning, and the U.S. Geological Survey,
and after a careful review of the available information.
Governor Ricardo J. Bordallo requested that the Adminis-
trator, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), desig-
nate the entire northern portion of Guam, stretching north
from the southern boundaries of Chalan Pago and Ordot,
under Section 1424(e) of the Safe Drinking Water Act, as
our principal water supply source. Such designation by the
EPA will result in the protection of our groundwaters from
any Federal actions which could significantly impair their
quality. Notice of the EPA's intent to designate our
northern aquifer was published in the Federal Register on
April 26, 1976.
In May 1975, the GEPA submitted an application to
EPA for a 100 percent grant, under Section 208 of the
Federal Water Pollution Control Act, for funds to perform
an Islandwide water quality program to study the impact
of, and determine methods to control, erosion, urban
runoff, and land discharges of residential sewage. A major
portion of the 208 program is developing public awareness
of environmental problems and providing input to programs
designed to curb them. The application was subsequently
approved and, on May 13, 1976, a detailed work program
was transmitted to the EPA specifying the objectives,
manpower, training, and cost necessary to achieve the goals
of the two-year program.
After three public hearings and four public GEPA
Board of Directors' meetings, Guam's Revised Water Quali-
ty Standards were adopted on September 25, 1975. The
Standards establish specific pollutant criteria for surface
and potable water, new use classifications for Island waters
(including conservation), and general effluent limitations
for waste discharge. On March 29, 1976, the Standards
were approved by the Federal Government.
In addition to the Water Quality Standards, Regula-
tions for. Well Drilling and Erosion Control were also
adopted by the Agency's Board of Directors during 1975.
GEPA's Water Basin Planning Program, under Section
303(e) of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act, pro-
duced an overall Island water planning profile and a specific
plan for most of northern Guam, classed as Segment A. The
plan identified major water areas, types, and uses and the
location and types of waste discharges affecting these uses.
The Basin Planning Program will be incorporated into the
208 Comprehensive Water Quality Planning Program and a
plan for controlling both point and non-point pollution will
be developed by July 1, I978.
Because so many long-range water quality programs
A-44
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APPENDIX A
were initiated in 1975, evaluation of their impact in regard Guam's third Report to Congress will detail the impact of
to meeting the 1983 national goals cannot be determined, these new pollution control efforts.
A-45
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APPENDIX A
Summary - State of Hawaii
Complete copies of the State of
Hawaii 305(b) Report can be obtained
from the State agency listed below:
Environmental Health Division
Department of Health
P.O. Box 3378
Honolulu, HI 96801
A-47
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APPENDIX A
Introduction and Summary
of Extent of Water
Pollution in Hawaii
Water Quality in the State of Hawaii was reported last
year in a document prepared for the EPA and the Con-
gress of the United States in fulfillment of Section 305(b)
of PL 92-500. It presented a broad overview and assessment
of major water quality problems, critical issues, and needed
control actions as viewed by the State's water pollution
control programs. The issues that were then addressed re-
main fundamentally unchanged in this year's analysis, in
particular, with respect to non-point source pollution. This
is still cited as the major concern of the State.
Considering the same fundamental issues and prob-
lems, it is appropriate in this 305(b) report to draw the
same conclusions as follows:
1. All municipal point discharges are under the
permit system committed to compliance sched-
ules for application of best practicable techno-
logy currently available, but adherence to com-
pliance schedules is dependent entirely upon
availability of construction funds.
2. Almost all industrial point discharges from raw
cane sugar factories have been eliminated by
recycling wastewaters to sugarcane fields for
irrigation. The exception is the non-irrigated
plantations along the Hanakua Coast on the
Island of Hawaii. The topography, climate, and
cane cultivation and harvesting are unique
factors which make the application of conven-
tional technology ineffective and expensive for
achieving water quality standards. Strict
effluent limits based on water quality standards
could incur costs high enough to disrupt eco-
nomic health of these industries unless innova-
tive waste management schemes are developed.
3. Non-point sources of discharges such as storm
runoff, soil erosion, seepage from individual
sewage disposal systems, and agricultural opera-
tions, are a major class of discharges affecting
water quality. Control technology and regula-
tory programs are considered to be related to
land use, for which guidelines are as yet
undeveloped.
4. Two major shellfish growing areas are now
subject to contamination by sewage effluents
and urban runoff. Plans have been developed
for diversion of sewage effluents to other
disposal sites. Further regulatory controls must
be developed to safeguard against contamina-
tion from pesticides and heavy metals in urban
runoff.
5. Regulations governing the design, construction,
installation, operation, and maintenance of
sewage treatment and disposal systems (public
and private) are prescribed in Chapter 38,
Public Health Regulations, Department of
Health, State of Hawaii. Minimum standards
governing treatment and disposal systems have
been in the process of revision.
6. Point source discharges are controlled under the
federally mandated National Pollutant Dis-
charge Elimination System (NPDES) delegated
to the State on November 28, 1974, under
which any discharge into State waters requires a
permit. Permits have been issued to 95 percent
of the major and minor discharges in the State.
7. With progress toward the goal of "zero-
discharge," subsurface emplacement of ef-
fluents and deep ocean outfalls are becoming
more prevalent. Subsurface emplacement of
effluents must be controlled to protect ground-
waters. A permit system for the discharge of
effluents into injection wells is being developed.
8. As point sources of pollution are brought under
control, the major emphasis in water pollution
will shift to control of the pollution that arises
from dispersed areas. The major nonpoint
sources of pollution in Hawaii are runoff:
Urban, agricultural, and construction.
9. Physical controls should include:
Use of impoundments or catch basins to reduce
the rate and amount of runoff;
Watershed treatment to reduce the rate and
amount of runoff; and
Retention of open spaces within the urban
areas to reduce the total amount of runoff.
10. Environmental policies should consist of:
Procedures to control urban litter and to
enforce general sanitary conditions;
Strict performance standards controlling gra-
ding and exposing bare soil during construction;
and
Regulations to control the open storage and
drainage in commercial and industrial areas.
11. Zoning has has been and will continue to be
used as the primary control over the location,
density, and direction or urban growth. With
little modification, these same ordinances can
be used to implement water quality-related land
use plans.
A-48
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APPENDIX A
Summary - State of Idaho
Complete copies of the State of Idaho
305(b) Report can be obtained from
the State agency listed below:
Department of Health and Welfare
Statehouse
Boise, ID 83720
A-49
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APPENDIX A
Summary
This report updates the Water Year 1974 Water
Quality Status Report.
Water quality data presented indicate that significant
reductions in municipal and industrial point source pollu-
tant loads over the past few years have had a measurable
effect in some streams. It is also apparent that non-point
source pollutant loadings have a major impact on stream
water quality so that water quality standards and goals may
not be achieved for many streams until such sources are
considerably reduced.
The NPDES permit program is functioning well in
Idaho with good progress being made in attaining compli-
ance with the 1977 treatment requirements.
Considerable progress has been made in developing a
non-point source pollution control program. The first
non-point source pollution control strategy for Idaho was
developed in March 1976. Agriculture (including irrigated
and non-irrigated croplands, and range and dry pasture) and
silviculture are considered to have the most significant
effect on water quality of all land use activities. The extent
of non-point pollution sources is not expected to decrease
without uniform statewide application of sound manage-
ment practices.
The recommendations for revising Public Law 92-500
by the National Commission on Water Quality are generally
supported with some few exceptions noted in the report.
There are other recommendations pertaining to Sections
208, 305(b) and 404 of the Act, and financing of
agricultural pollution control facilities.
Recommendations
on Public Law 92-500
The following discussion is based on the "Report to
the Congress by the National Commission on Water
Quality" dated March 18,1976 and specifically the section
titled "Recommendations (Summary)" (see Appendix A-1
to this appendix).
The 1977 Requirements
• Recommendation No. I
A. There is a definite need for authority to grant
extensions of time to municipal, industrial and
agricultrual dischargers to meet the 1977
requirements on a case-by-case basis. Such time
extensions should not extend beyond July 1,
1983.
B. Congress should only authorize a deferral of the
1977 requirements on a case-by-case basis and
not, as suggested, a waiving or modification of
the 1977 requirements. It appears that
applications for waivers or modifications on a
case-by-case basis could result in an
administrative nightmare for the EPA.
C. Congress should provide authority for waiving,
deferral, or modification of the 1977 require-
ments on a category-by-category basis, par-
ticularly for existing publicly-owned oxidation
ponds and lagoons and deminimus situations.
However, the States should be provided the
authority to require the application of the 1977
requirements on a case-by-case basis within
each category, if needed, to meet water quality
standards.
The 1983 Goals and Requirements
• Recommendation No. II
A. The 1983 goal of fishable, swimmable waters
must be maintained.
B. Congress should postpone the deadline for
implementation of the 1983 requirements
until: (1) Non-point source control measures
(including irrigation return flows) are imple-
mented; (2) the 1977 requirements are imple-
mented; and (3) the results of these measures
are documented by a complete assessment of
water quality improvements achieved. Addi-
tional Federal funds should be provided to the
States so that a complete assessment may be
made of water quality improvements. After
these three criteria have been completed, a new
Commission, similar to the National Commis-
sion on Water Quality, should evaluate the
progress made and make a determination as to
whether uniform applicaton of more stringent
effluent limitations than the 1977 requirements
is justified and necessary for attainment of
national water quality goals.
Decentralization
• Recomendation No. Ill
Congress should authorize the EPA
Administrator to issue certification to any State to
exercise full authority and responsibility for planning
and for administration of the discharge permit and
construction grants programs. However, many State
pollution control agencies would probably not be
able to apply for such certification unless adequate
Federal or State resources were provided to admini-
ster the programs. When such certification is made,
the EPA staff should be reduced and EPA should
assume a more secondary role to the States. The EPA
should then concentrate on formulating criteria re-
view, allocating Federal resources, research and devel-
opment, and technical assistance.
A-50
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APPENDIX A
In addition, it is strongly recommended that the •
current nation-wide organization of the EPA be modified
and patterned after the more progressive EPA Region X.
The EPA's ten national regions should be decentralized in
order to strengthen individual State programs. EPA Region
X has an operations office in each State within the region.
Since this concept was implemented, the interrelationship
of State/EPA has improved tremendously in Idaho.
Federal Financial Assistance
• Recommendation No. IV
Congress should provide Federal grants for
constructing publicly-owned treatment works by au-
thorizing funding of the program at $5 billion per
year for at least ten years.
Elimination of the Discharge of Pollutants and
Research and Development Needs
• Recommendation No. V
A. Congress should redefine the goal of elimina-
tion of discharge of pollutants by 1985 and,
instead, stress conservation and reuse of re-
sources. When practical, the State should strive
for elimination of pollutant discharges into the
nation's waters.
B. Congress should provide adequate financing to
accelerate practical research directed toward
developing and demonstrating promised tech-
niques for recycling, reuse, land application and
other resource-conserving options for waste
management. Where possible. State water pollu-
tion control agency administration of the re-
search programs should be emphasized.
C. Congress should encourage research on toxic
pollutants and their effects.
D. No comment.
E. See Paragraph B above.
Irrigated Agriculture
• Recommendation No. VI
A. Congress should authorize flexibility in the
application of control requirements in this
category of discharge and recognize the need
for the development of applying resource sys-
tems on a site specific basis. Identified prob-
lems must be resolved within a reasonable
period of time in order to meet water quality
goals.
B. No comment.
Other Recommendations
1. Section 305(b) should be revised to require
State water quality status reports bi-annually
rather than annually.
2. Section 404 should be revised to allow State
operation of dredge and fill permit system
where a State already has adequate authority to
regulate such discharges.
3. Congress should consider the provision of Fed-
eral funding to State and local planning agen-
cies where necessary to implement Section 208
water quality management plans.
4. Congress should consider developing a financing
program which would provide low interest
loans to agriculture interests on a high-priority
basis where structural measures are needed to
control pollutant discharges.
APPENDIX A-1
RECOMMENDATIONS (SUMMARY)
THE 1977 REQUIREMENTS
/. The Commission recommends that
A. Congress authorize granting extensions of time
to municipal, industrial and agricultural dischargers to meet
the 1977 requirements on a case-by-case basis where:
1. The discharger can demonstrate reason-
able progress toward compliance with the July 1,
1977 deadline; or
2. Lack of Federal construction grant funds has
caused delay; or
3. The discharger can demonstrate other good
and sufficient cause;
Provided that in no case shall such extensions of
time extend beyond (a specified date such as September 30,
1980) or until the cause for delay has beeruremoved.
B. Congress authorize waiving, deferral or modifi-
cation of the 1977 requirements on a case-by-case basis
where the discharger demonstrates to the satisfaction of the
Administrator (or a state administrator where a state has
been certified) that adverse environmental impacts of such
action will be minimal or nonexistent, or that the capital or
operation and maintenance costs are disproportionate to
projected environmental gains.
C. Congress authorize waiving, deferral, or modifi-
cation of the 1977 requirements on a category-by-category
basis for near shore ocean discharges of publicly owned
treatment works, pretreatment requirements, existing pub-
licly owned oxidation ponds and lagoons, and de minimus
situation where the Administrator determines that the
adverse environmental impacts of such action will be
minimal or nonexistent, or that the capital or operating and
A-51
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APPENDIX A
maintenance costs are disproportionate to projected envi-
ronmental gains.
THE 1983 GOAL AND REQUIREMENTS
//. The Commission recommends that
A. Congress retain the national goal, ". . . that
whenever attainable, an interim goal of water quality
which provides for the protection and propagation of fish,
shellfish, and wildlife and provides for recreation in and on
the water be achieved by July 1, 1983;"
B. Congress postpone the deadline by which muni-
cipal, agricultural and industrial discharges shall be required
to meet the 1983 requirements from July 1, 1983 to (a
date not less than five and no more than ten years after
1983) provided the following interim actions are assured:
1. Effluent limitations for 1977 are re-
viewed periodically and revised, if appropriate, to
reflect advances in practicable control technology;
2. Periodically review and aggressively en-
force higher levels of treatment than required by the
1977 effluent limitations where the 1977 require-
ments will not achieve Federally approved State water
quality standards and where more stringent limita-
tions will significantly help in achieving water quality
standards;
3. Review and alter new source performance
standards periodically as technology is perfected to
ensure a high level of control or treatment of new
pollutant sources;
4. a. Where possible, toxic pollutants in
toxic concentrations shall be controlled in applicable
effluent limitations and permits.
b. Effluent limitations based on tech-
nology to eliminate the discharge of toxic pollutants
in toxic concentrations into the nation's waters shall
be implemented as soon as possible but no later than
October 1, 1980;
5. a. Apply control or treatment mea-
sures to combined storm and sanitary sewer flows and
to urban stormwater flows when these measures are
cost effective and will significantly help in achieving
water quality standards.
b. Control or treatment measures shall
be applied to agricultural and non-point discharges
when these measures are cost effective and will signi-
ficantly help in achieving water quality standards.
For these measures, Congress could utilize the
capabilities of existing institutions and their re-
sources, and may wish to consider additional Federal
resources to carry out the necessary programs;
6. An on-going national assessment of the
quality of the nation's waters shall be undertaken to
determine progress toward water quality goals and
objectives and the progress periodically reported to
the Congress; and
7. No later than 1985 a Commission similar
to the National Commission on Water Quality shall
evaluate progress toward these goals and make appro-
priate recommendations, at which time Congress may
consider whether uniform application of more strin-
gent effluent limitations that the 1977 requirements
is justified and desirable.
DECENTRALIZATION
///. The Commission recommends that
Congress authorize certification, upon application, to
any state to exercise full authority and responsibility for
planning, and for administration of the discharge permit
and construction grant program, provided:
A. A statewide water quality plan and program is
approved at the time of certification.
B. The state demonstrates
1. It has the appropriate statutory authority
and directions, manpower and appropriations,
administrative or judicial penalties and remedies; and
2. It meets such other qualifications as the
Congress may determine necessary to perform such
functions.
C. That certification be for a period of five or
more years renewable after that based on progress toward
improved water quality, and that the state agrees the
certification may be withdrawn, after public hearing, on a
showing of unsatisfactory progress, but that certification
shall continue in force unless and until it is withdrawn by
the Administrator.
As the certification process proceeds, the Federal role
in the national water quality program should be that of
formulation of criteria review and approval of state
programs, allocation of Federal resources, research and
development and technical assistance, review of state
progress and performance and more detailed supervision of
those functions not certified to the states.
FEDERAL FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE
/ V. The Commission recommends that
Congress provide stability for the program of Federal
grants for the construction of publicly owned control or
treatment works by authorizing and indicating its intent to
fund the progran at (not less that $5 billion nor more than
$10 billion per year) for a fixed term of years (not less than
five nor more than ten) at 75 percent of the cost of
construction, provided that:
A. Priorities for the award of grants for eligible
publicly owned treatment works within a state shall be
established by the state provided that the ordering of
priorities shall be based unon cost effectiveness and upon
the ability of a project to contribute substantially toward
the "goal of water quality which provides for the pro-
tection and propagation of fish, shellfish, and wildlife and
provides for recreation in and on the water."
B. In pursuit of the objective of ultimate
A-52
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APPENDIX A
self-sufficiency for the construction, operation and main-
tenance of publicly owned treatment works, the Congress
reexamine the rationale and the actual performance to date
of the user charge, industrial cost recovery, and pretreat-
ment provisions in the Act.
ELIMINATION OF THE DISCHARGE OF POLLUTANTS
AND RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT NEEDS
V. The Commission recommends that
A. The Congress redefine the goal of the elimina-
tion of discharge of pollutants by 1985 to stress conserva-
tion and reuse of resources while striving to achieve the
objective of restoring and maintaining ".. . the chemical,
physical, and biological integrity of the Nation's waters."
B. The Congress re-enforce the mandate and pro-
vide adequate financing to accelerate research directed
toward the development and demonstration of promising
techniques for recycling, reuse, land application and other
resource-conserving options for waste management, and
that the Congress further encourage:
1. Increasing efforts by industry, agriculture
and the public section, directed toward the develop-
ment, refinement and application of sound control
technologies and treatment options that conserve and
reuse water resources of the production process, and
water-borne nutrients in human and animal waste;
2. Intensified research focused on the devel-
opment and application of more efficient and cost
effective alternative for the control and treatment of
separate and combined sewer overflows; and
3. Appropriate use of the resulting waste
management techniques, through an Environmental
Protection Agency-sponsored technical assistance pro-
gram, to advise communities, industries and agricul-
tural dischargers on the availability and adaptability
of cost effective and environmentally sound treat-
ment options to meet the needs of these dischargers.
C. The Congress should encourage accelerated
research on the identification and measurement of toxic
pollutants and their effects, sources of toxic pollutants in
the environment and the nation's waters, the fate of toxic
pollutants in the aquatic environment and their impacts
upon organisms and upon human health, and the identifica-
tion of sound control technologies for the elimination of
toxic pollutants.
D. Expanded efforts on the collection, evaluation
and utilization of data on pollutant discharges and permit
compliance, and their relationship to the measurement of
improvements in water quality should be initiated at once.
E. Congress should vest leadership for the above
recommended research and development programs with the
Environmental Protection Agency, while encouraging such
research at other levels of government and within the
private sector.
IRRIGATED AGRICULTURE
VI.
The Commission recommends that
A. The Congress recognize the variations in the
physical, hydrological, institutional and economic charac-
teristics of irrigated agricultural activities and authorize
flexibility in the application of control or treatment
^requirements in this category of discharge, including discre-
tionary authority to exempt certain dischargers to catego-
ries of dischargers from monitoring and permit require-
ments, provided that:
1. a. An assessment of the irrigated terri-
tory to the United States be prepared identifying and
classifying by basin and sub-basin and severity of
pollution problems, areas where the practice of
irrigated agriculture along or in conjuntion with
natural conditions and other consumptive water uses
may impact water quality through changes in salinity,
sediment, nutrient or pesticide concentrations or
through other deleterious effects; and
b. Physical, hydrologic, economic and
institutional criteria for exemption from permitting
and monitoring requirements are developed; or
2. The water quality plan and program of a
state, as well as areawide waste management plans,
contain an acceptable strategy for mitigating the
effects of irrigated agricultural discharges including a
program for permitting and monitoring, as necessary,
to achieve and maintain the water quality standards
in a state or basin.
B. Congress explore and, where appropriate, sup-
port salinity alleviation projects to control or reduce
naturally contributed salts to the nation's waters.
A-53
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APPENDIX A
Summary - State of Illinois
Complete copies of the State of
Illinois 305(b) Report can be obtained
from the State agency listed below:
Illinois Environmental Protection Agency
2200 Churchill Road
Springfield, IL 62706
A-55
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APPENDIX A
Executive Summary
This report has been prepared by the Illinois Environ-
mental Protection Agency (IEPA) in satisfaction of the
requirements of Section 305(b).
Current Water Quality and Recent Trends
Water quality sample data collected by the IEPA
during 1975 at some 550 sampling stations located through-
out Illinois is summarized for each of the 123 segments of
14 major river basins located in Illinois. These sample data
were compared with corresponding water quality standards,
and a tabulation of parameters for which one or more
violations of a water quality standard was observed during
1975. While nearly every water quality parameter for which
a numerical standard exists was violated somewhere in the
State during 1975, the most widespread parameter viola-
tions were for fecal coliform, total iron, ammonia nitrogen,
copper, dissolved oxygen, lead, manganese, and total
phosphorous. By far the leading parameter in terms of
number of stations showing violations was fecal coliform—
more than 98 percent of the stations sampled showed at
least one violation.
A water quality index based on chemical sample data
has been defined and correlated with findings of field
biological studies. This index has been computed for each
sampling station using available data for the year 1971
through 1975 so as to provide an analysis of overall water
quality trends for the past five years. Viewed statewide, for
538 stations where comparable data for 1972 and 1975
were available, conditions as measured by the water quality
index improved at 93 stations and deteriorated at 50
stations. No significant change occured at 379 stations. The
net improvement is attributed largely to the upgrading of
sewage treatment facilities which handle sanitary sewage
from municipalities.
Surveys of biological communities in some 140
stream reaches conducted by IEPA biologists since 1968 are
summarized. A large majority of these surveys revealed at
least localized effects on the aquatic habitat by some form
of pollution. Most of these effects are identifiable to some
degree with known point sources, but there are many
instances where non-point sources are at least partially to
blame for degraded conditions.
Water quality studies conducted by other individuals
and agencies in recent years are summarized by the IEPA.
A report by Nienkerk and Flemal analyzes the
observed values of various dissolved solids from a regional
distribution viewpoint, and thereby points out the impor-
tance of both geology and regional land use differences in
determining so-called "background" concentrations of min-
erals in surface waters.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's Na-
tional Eutrophication Survey has resulted in "Working
Papers" for 31 lakes studied in Illinois. These studies have
led to the conclusion that Illinois lakes which are sustained
by impoundment of surface runoff will receive sufficient
nutrients from non-point sources to become eutrophic very
quickly. Only one of the 31 lakes studied—Cedar Lake in
Lake County—was not classified as eutrophic, and it is one
of the few lakes in the State whose level is maintained
principally by precipitation and groundwater inflow.
A study by Mathis of the Illinois River and some of
its tributaries indicates that higher levels of several heavy
metals and other minerals are found in the bottom
sediments of the Illinois River itself than in three of its
tributaries which do not receive industrial discharges.
Bottom-dwelling clams and worms showed higher tissue
concentrations of these same chemical constituents than
fishes. It was concluded that bottom sediments act as a (
"sink" for heavy metals.
Bulletin 56 of the Illinois State Water Survey,
"Quality of Surface Water in Illinois, 1966-1971," summa-
rizes water quality data collected by the Survey at U.S.
Geological Survey stream gaging stations. It is noted that
maximum total inorganic phosphorous values range from
0.63 mg/l to 4.59 mg/l at the various stations. This can be
compared roughly with the current Illinois water quality
standard of 0.05 mg/l for total phosphorus in lakes or
streams at the point of entry to a lake. It may be concluded
that the current water quality standard for total phosphor-
ous is being achieved consistently almost nowhere.
The "Illinois Soil and Water Conservation Needs
Inventory," published in 1970, indicates that annual
average soil loss due to erosion by county ranges from 8 to
about 11 tons per acre. It is estimated that about 61.6
percent of the acreage of Illinois is in need of some form of
sq[l conservation measure.
A report entitled "Ohio River Main Stem Assessment
of 1975 and Future Water Quality Conditions" by the Ohio
River Valley Water Sanitation Commission presents a
summary of water quality violations on that stream. The
Illinois water quality standards violated at some time during
the year were phenols, total iron, manganese, dissolved
oxygen, and fecal coliform. Combined and storm sewer
discharges were blamed for frequent and extensive viola-
tions of the recreational use standards for fecal coliform.
The importance of non-point sources of pollution as a
major determinant of water quality after 1977 point source
controls are operational was cited.
An unpublished IEPA report summarizing results of
analyses of fish from several areas of the State for
pesticides and polychlorinated biphenyls disclosed the
following facts: Of the three pesticides analyzed-
heptachlor epoxide, dieldrin, and total DDT—only dieldrin
was found to be present at levels approaching or exceeding
the FDA tolerance level (except for a single instance for
heptachlor epoxide in a large carp taken from the Illinois
River). No values of PCB's in excess of the FDA limit were
found, although many values in excess of the analytical
detection limit were found. (No fish from Lake Michigan,
where PCS problems have received wide publicity, were
included in this study.) Thus, based on the limited data
A-56
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APPENDIX A
available, the most serious problem with these four persis-
tent chemicals other than in Lake Michigan is that of high
dieldrin levels which have beeen found in many locations.
Water Quality Goals and Programs
Water quality analyses made during development of
Phase I water quality management plans have identified
those water quality parameters contained in existing Illinois
water quality standards for 1977 for which violations are
expected to continue following implementation of cur-
rently mandated point source controls. For the most part,
the remaining" violations are expected to result from
non-point sources.
The current Illinois water quality standards are
presented. These standards are considered to be generally
consistent with the 1983 national goals that wherever
attainable, water quality will be achieved which provides
for the protection and propagation of fish, shellfish, and
wildlife and provides for recreation in and on the water. It
is recognized that some revision of the current water
quality standards will be required, however, in order to
better reflect background levels of some parameters.
Parameters for which continuing violations of current
standards are projected are fecal coliform, manganese,
boron, total iron, copper, mercuty, total dissolved solids,
chlorides, lead, zinc, sulfates, pH, cadmium, cyanide,
nickel, total phosphorus, silver, dissolved oxygen, and
nitrates.
Phase II water quality management planning—to be
conducted between July 1, 1976 and November 1,
1978—will identify the additional controls, especially "best
management practices" for non-point sources, which will be
required to achieve the 1983 goals. Needed changes to
current water quality standards will also be identified in
that time period.
Costs and Benefits
The costs for control of municipal pollutant sources
as developed for the 1974 Survey of Needs for Municipal
Wastewater Treatment Facilities were updated by applica-
tion of a 1.41 multiplier. The resulting estimate of the total
cost of correcting existing problems from publicly owned
sources and providing capacity for the next twenty years is
$12.2 billion. Of this total, $3.1 billion is for control of
stormwater. The largest category of need is $4.5 billion to
correct combined sewer overflows. Slightly more that $3
billion is needed for improved treatment facilities for dry
weather flows.
For industrial wastes, it is estimated that about $1.2
billion in total capital costs are required to bring industrial
dischargers from 1973 levels of performance to compliance
with 1983 goals. This will entail an annual outlay of $281
million for both capital and operating costs.
Only crude estimates of a few categories of non-point
source control costs can be made at this time. Elimination
of abandoned coal mine drainage problems was estimated
to cost some $346 million at 1974 prices. The 1970
Conservation Needs Inventory estimated that 61.6 percent
of the acreage of Illinois needs conservation measures, but
no dollar cost is available.
No effort is made to quantify for Illinois or individu-
als the benefits to be gained from achievement of the 1983
water quality goals. Numerous qualitative assessments of
these benefits have been compiled previously.
Non-point Sources
A brief summary of the nature and extent of various
categories of non-point sources of pollution is provided.
Agricultural non-point sources, or agricultural runoff,
is the most important category in terms of the number of
stream miles affected. Storm runoff from agricultural land
can carry oxygen-demanding organic matter, soil particles
and minerals leached from the soil, fecal coliform bacteria,
pesticides, fertilizers, and other pollutants into the streams.
The key to reducing the movement of many of these
materials is believed to be the establishment of effective
soil erosion control practices. In addition, reduction of
erosion and subsequent sedimentation will reduce the rate
of siltation of downstream reservoirs.
Silviculture, i. e., timber operations, is not considered
to be a major source of degraded water quality in Illinois,
even though it is a serious problem in other States.
Coal mining—both underground and surface—is an
important industry in Illinois. In terms of the severity of
the pollution which occurs as a result of drainage from
refuse piles, spoil banks, and other mine-related land
features it is the most important non-point pollutant
source. Exposed pyrites form sulfuric acid upon contact
with air and water; this acid not only is toxic when it
directly contacts aquatic life, but it also leaches and
dissolves heavy metals and other minerals from the soil it
contacts, thereby generating additional toxic components.
Some 415 miles of creeks and rivers, plus their minor feeder
tributaties, have been affected by mine drainage in Illinois.
Current regulations are not considered to be appreciably
successful in controlling stream degradation by new mining
activities, and almost no control exists over problems re-
sulting from abandoned mines.
Stream degradation due to construction activity is a
widespread, if not particularly severe, problem in Illinois.
Erosion and subsequent sedimentation frequently destroys
aquatic habitats in the vicinity of construction projects.
More effective erosion control practices are needed.
It has been estimated that some 4,000 miles of
interior streams of Illinois have been channelized in order
to improve drainage from adjacent farm lands. Such
channelization has a profound adverse effect on the water
quality of these streams by increasing turbidity, dissolved
solids concentrations, and stream temperatures, and de-
creasing dissolved oxygen.
Greater consideration should be given to the effects
A-57
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APPENDIX A
on water quality and the aquatic habitat of hydrologic-
hydrographic modifications.
Urban storm runoff affects water quality by carrying
into streams organic matter, lead and petroleum residues
from automobile exhaust, salts and other street de-icing
materials, and other pollutants washed from streets, parking
areas, and rooftops. In urban areas served by
combined sewers, it is difficult to separate the effects of
washoff from those of sanitary wastes which flow into
streams during storm events.
Residual wastes from wastewater treatment facilities
appear not to be a major source of water quality degrada-
tion currently. Existing control programs are adequately
regulating residual waste disposal.
Saltwater intrusion by seawater into fresh water
aquifers is not a problem in Illinois. Some problems do
occur, however, with chlorides from highway de-icing, oil
well brine disposal, and scattered natural salt deposits.
A new identified non-point source of pollution which
is of particular concern relative to Lake Michigan, is that of
fallout or washout from polluted air.
Recommendations
1. Continuation of the Federal construction grant
program for several years into the future is
essential if control of pollution due to munici-
pal wastewater is to be achieved. As a mini-
mum, construction of a minimum of $1.65
billion of eligible projects should be initiated
during the period October 1, 1976 through
September 30, 1980.
2. Improved management techniques and controls
need to be implemented to reduce the effects
of runoff from agricultural land, construction
sites, mining areas, and urban centers.
Existing point source controls should be evalu-
ated and revisions made to increase their
effectiveness. NPDES permits should be issued
to reflect appropriate effluent limits and moni-
toring requirements as dictated by continuing
water quality violations.
Additional controls and the use of more effec-
tive management techniques are necessary to
reduce the pollutional effects of livestock oper-
ations.
Control of combined sewer overflows, elimina-
tion of sanitary sewer overflows, and the
reduction of the pollutional effects of storm
drainage are needed to meet water quality goals
as currently expressed.
The segment water quality analyses should be
reviewed to determine the desirablity of relo-
cating sampling stations so that monitoring can
be more effective where needed and reduced
where no need is apparent.
Ongoing review and revision of water quality
standards is recommended in order to add
standards for new parameters, change values for
existing parameters, and eliminate those values
which prove to be of little or no significance.
Continued efforts to achieve better operation
of treatment facilities and monitoring of pollu-
tant point sources should be undertaken.
A-58
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APPENDIX A
Summary - State of Indiana
Complete copies of the State of
Indiana 305(b) Report can be ob-
tained from the State agency listed
below:
Water Pollution Control Division
Indiana State Board of Health
1330 West Michigan Street
Indianapolis, IN 46206
A-59
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APPENDIX A
Summary
Although virtually all waters of the State of Indiana
have been and are being influenced to some extent by
activities of man, localized water quality problems are
known to result from natural causes as well. The "natural"
or background concentration of various water quality
parameters in a given watershed are influenced by erosion
of prevailing soil types and weathering of exposed rock
outcrops. On the basis of available data, it appears that
these "natural" or background levels of heavy metals,
nutrients and other substances may vary from streams of
one physiographic zone to another, and in some instances
in streams in a single watershed.
This makes it extremely difficult to establish uniform
numerical water quality criteria for the entire State. This
is particularly true in the case of trace metals where criteria
recommended by the U.S. Environmental Protection
Agency (EPA) are exceptionally low.
In 1943, the Indiana General Assembly enacted a
Stream Pollution Control Law (1C 1971, 13-1-3) which
provided for the formation of a seven member Stream
Pollution Control Board. This Board was charged with the
responsibility of abating or preventing pollution of the
waters c
-------
APPENDIX A
combined expanded totals for the State over the last two pollutants by 1985 appears to be not only unattainable but
years, industries have spent an estimated $1.4 billion for unwise for numerous reasons. It is recommended that this
water pollution abatement or control. The expanded total goal be abandoned.
for the next two years to reach the 1977-1983 limits was The ability of the Indiana Stream Pollution Control
found to be approximately $1.14 billion. Board to fully implement programs required by EPA
Despite the expenditure of these funds by municipal- regulations promulgated under the authority granted by
ities and industries, it may be impossible to meet the PL 92-500 will largely depend upon the extent to which the
PL 92-500 goal of making all waters swimmable due to Indiana General Assembly and the EPA provides necessary
natural sources of coliform bacteria. funding.
The PL 92-500 goal of requiring no discharge of
A-61
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APPENDIX A
Summary - State of Kansas
Complete copies of the State of
Kansas 305(b) Report can be obtained
from the State agency listed below:
Division of Environment
Department of Health and Environ-
ment
topeka, KS 66620
A-63
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APPENDIX A
Summary
This section is a summary of the various discussions
given in the succeeding sections of this report. These
discussions, in turn, summarize the water quality informa-
tion given in the tables at the end of the report. The
following topics are presented as an inventory of the
current water quality situation in Kansas.
Point-source Program
The status of the National Pollutant Discharge Elimi-
nation System program for Kansas as of January 1, 1976,
and the status of statewide compliance with the 1977 and
1983 treatment requirements of PL 92-500 as of January 1,
1976, are as follows.
Municipal
point
sources
Industrial
point
sources
Agricultural
point
sources
Total number of sources
Number of NPDES permits
issued/required
Facilities in compliance
1977 requirements
Facilities in compliance
1983 requirements
512
376/386
125
342
216/313
40
173
2,348
186/628
2,118
A-64
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APPENDIX A
Figure 1 is a graphical comparison of the status of
compliance in 1975 with 1974.
Achieving the treatment requirements of PL 92-500
will involve the folfowing areas of implementation:
1. Constructing secondary treatment facilities for
30 municipal plants still providing primary
treatment.
2. Upgrading 337 municipal treatment plants to
comply with currently defined effluent limita-
tions. Because of the construction program
required, the July 1, 1977 compliance date
cannot be met by all dischargers.
3. Constructing 20 industrial treatment plants and
upgrading 173 industrial treatment plants to
comply with currently defined limitations.
4. Constructing waste control facilities for 230
feedlots.
FIGURE 1
SUMMARY OF NPDES PERMIT ISSUANCE AND WASTE TREATMENT COMPLIANCE
(As of January 1.1976)
MUNICIPAL
PERMITS
ISSUED
INDUSTRIAL AGRICULTURAL MUNICIPAL INDUSTRIAL AGRICULTURAL MUNICIPAL INDUSTRIAL AGRICULTURAL
PERMITS PEWITS MEETING MEETING MEETING MEETING MEETING MEETING
ISSUED ISSUED 1177 1177 1177 1M3 1N3 1N3
REQUIREMENTS REQUIREMENTS REQUIREMENTS REQUIREMENTS REQUIREMENTS REQUIREMENTS
* INCLUDING THOSE MEETING 19*3 REQUIREMENTS.
A-65
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APPENDIX A
Non-point Source Evaluation
No specific non-point source control programs have
been implemented to date, but some non-point source
control has been accomplished through other governmental
or voluntary programs. Six non-point source categories are
of present or potential importance in Kansas in terms of
water quality influence: Mineral inflow, rural runoff,
irrigation return flow, mine drainage, urban runoff, and
construction activities. The current evaluation of non-point
source categories yields the following relative ranking of
sources in terms of overall water quality significance and
feasibility of control:
conducts special investigations of water quality problem
areas.
Existing Water Quality
Long-term averages of water quality data from major
rivers in Kansas yield the following general characteriza-
tion: Turbid streams, moderately mineralized, well buf-
fered, with good oxygen characteristics, low organic load-
ing, high nutrient levels, and high bacterial levels. Water
quality trends since 1967 on eight major Kansas rivers
indicate that 72 key parametric averages have shown water
quality improvement or no significant change, and 18 key
parametric averages have shown water quality deterioration,
as summarized below:
Present or potential ,_ .. ...
Feasibility of
water quality
Vr~ . . .,. major control
Non-point category significance
Mineral inflow
Rural runoff
Irrigation return flow
Urban runoff
Mine drainage
Construction activities
Control strategies for
receive in-depth evaluation
Quality Management Plans,
1
2
3
4
5
6
6
3
4
2
5
1
non-point source categories will
in the state's
River Basin Water
1967 1974
Water quality
trend at nine
major loca-
tions (month-
ly avgs.)
Water quality
improvement
No significant
change
Water quality
deterioration
Sal 1
ffl 'E ~° s
> CD c CD
— ^ CD Q_
•- ° X I
Q CQ o I—
6 1
926
1 2
E
o
> is
1 8
'2 -5
I 3 S
Q. 1- Li!
7 9
9
2
ra
c
E
<
5
3
1
S
CD
_C
Q.
O
Q.
"ro
o
6
1
2
V
"O CD
1 1
£ 3
O CO
1 1
2 4
6 4
Total
trends
36
36
18
Phase II, scheduled for comple-
tion in November, 1978. Several specific
now underway.
investigations are
Figure
2 shows these
parametric
trends
at each
of the
Surveillance Network
The Kansas water quality surveillance network has
gathered extensive water quality information from as far
back as the 1890's. Major revisions in the network have
enlarged the scope of data collection since that time. The
network underwent an extensive upgrading in 1975 with
the State assuming responsibility for all water data collec-
tion and analysis, part of which had been shared with the
U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). In addition to the regular
network, the Division cooperates with the USGS in
monitoring groundwater quality, conducts intensive surveys
of specific river basins, monitors eight special projects and
nine river locations.
Water quality in Kansas streams in the last two
decades has been primarily influenced by non-point
sources, point source contributions having had their great-
est impact during the period of the 1930's through the
1950's. At present, instream quality is determined almost
entirely by flow regime. During low-flow periods, the most
significant quality influence is the entrance of mineral
inflow from natural sources. During high-flow periods, most
Kansas surface waters display their poorest quality, with
significant increases in BOD, nutrients, bacterial numbers,
and turbidity from non-point source contributions. Figure
3 shows the influence of non-point runoff for several of
these key parameters.
A-66
-------
FIGURE 2
WATER QUALITY TRENDS IN MAJOR KANSAS RIVERS
(1967-1975)
.....WATER QUALITY DETERIORATION
....NO SIGNIFICANT CHANGE
..WATER QUALITY IMPROVEMENT
O5
100%
N
to
CO
a 7.
Z 70
Ul
GC
i "
i so
a>
at
oc
£ 40
IU
I 30
u.
o
£ »
in
u
£ 10
KANSAS MISSOURI BIG BLUE REPUBLICAN ARKANSAS ARKANSAS VERDIGRIS NEOSHO MARAISDES
RIVER RIVER RIVER RIVER RIVER RIVER RIVER RIVER CYGNESR.
AT AT NEAR NEAR AT AT AT AT NEAR
KANSAS CITY KANSAS CITY OKETO.NBR. HARDY, NBR. COOLlDGE ARKANSAS COFFEYVILLE CHETOPA TRADING
CITY POST
ALL
STATIONS
-a
•o
m
Z
D
X
-------
FIGURE 3
COMPARISON OF POINT SOURCE
AND NON- POINT SOURCE CONTRIBUTIONS
APPENDIX A
10.000,000
1,800,000
co
O
j 100,000
10,000
1,000
V)
HI
O
tt
O
to
tO
Ul
u
c
1
I
i
I
m
m
w
PHOSPHATE
to
GC
§
to
Z
2
NITROGEN
oc
o
co
I
I
BO DC
O
U
oc
3
O
(O
I-
1
20
84
i
ll
o
u
u
UJ
o
BACTERIA
VIOLATIONS
A-68
-------
APPENDIX A
Water Quality Standards Violations
Water quality data from the State surveillance pro-
gram indicated that 130 specific water quality standards
violations occurred in Class B waters during calendar year
1975. No violations were identified in Class A waters. Of
the above violations, 30 were associated with municipal
wastewater discharges, 16 were associated with industrial
wastewater discharges, and the remaining 84 were associa-
ted with rural and urban non-point runoff. Standards
violations associated with municipal discharge occurred in
six segments: Arkansas River AR-1, Arkansas River UA-1,
Kansas River KS-1, Cottonwood River NE-2, Indian Creek
MO-5, and Marmaton River MC-3. Violations associated
with industrial discharge occurred in four segments: Cot-
tonwood River NE-2, Arkansas River UA-1, Walnut River
WA-1, and Cow Creek AR-6. The standards violations are
listed below:
Cause
Fecal
coliform Ammonia DO pH Chloride
Municipal point
source
Industrial point
source
Non-point
runoff
20
4
6 -
3 -
11
84
All dischargers associated with the above violations
are now on implementation schedules for compliance with
1977 treatment requirements, or have facility upgrade
projects in progress. Extreme variance in hydrologic condi-
tions across the State accounted for fewer standards
violations than were recorded in 1974.
Water Uses - 1983 Water Quality Goals
All Class A waters in the State are currently suitable
for all intended uses as defined in the water quality
standards, with the exception of a mineralization problem
in Wilson Reservoir which is limiting municipal and
industrial water supply and agricultural uses of that lake.
All Class A waters in the State are currently meeting the
1983 water quality goals of body contact recreation and
bio-support.
Of the Class B waters, 33 segments are currently
suitable for all intended uses as defined in the water quality
standards. In 26 segments water supply and/or agricultural
uses are limited by natural mineralization. Suitable quality
for secondary contact recreation is marginal in seven
segments where the above listed standards violations asso-
ciated with point sources are occurring. Full bio-support is
being limited locally in two segments as a result of oxygen
stress from organic loading. Since unimpounded surface
waters in the State are generally unusitable for body
contact recreation from the standpoint of channel geo-
metry, flow patterns, and natural pollution sources, the
attainable 1983 water quality goals for streams in Kansas
are currently interpreted as secondary contact recreation
and bio-support. From this standpoint, 55 of the 62
segments are currently meeting the 1983 goals. Figure 4
shows those segments where water use is limited by point
sources and natural mineralization.
Cost/Benefit Implications
The major costs identified in this report for point
source and non-point source control required by PL 92-500
are summarized below:
Initial cost
Annual costs
Point source control
Municipal
Industrial
Agricultural
Total
Non-point source
Rural runoff
Urban runoff
Construction
Mine drainage
Total
$2,086,000,000
155,540,000
2,596,000
$2,244,136,000
control
$1,538,900,000
2,408,700,000
21 ,650,000
$3,969,250,000
$104,150,000
9,300,000
130,000
$113,580,000
$232,100,000
120,435,000
26,281,000
3,000,000
$381,816,000
If applied to the total length of flowing streams and
rivers in Kansas, the $6,213,000,000 expenditure for point
source and non-point source control would result in a
statewide average cost of over $600,000 per mile of stream.
Further cost/benefit investigations now underway in the
1976 Needs Survey and in the Phase II River Basin Water
Quality Management Plans will provide more insight into
the economic benefits of water use. It is not currently
anticipated that major increases in beneficial water use will
be realized in most segments. Resulting increases in
beneficial water uses can only be identified at the present
time for eight of the 62 water quality planning segments.
A-69
-------
APPENDIX A
FIGURE 4
STREAM WATER USE LIMITATIONS
NOTE: ALL STREAMS IN KANSAS
ARE SUBJECT TO USE LIMITATION
DURING PERIODS OFRAPID RUNOFF.
miinti
WATER USE LIMITED BY
NATURAL MINERALIZATION
WATER USE LIMITED BY
POINT SOURCES
A-70
-------
APPENDIX A
Summary - State of Kentucky
Complete copies of the State of
Kentucky 305(b) Report can be
obtained from the State agency listed
below:
Division of Water Quality
Department for Natural Resources
and Environmental Protection
275 East Maine Street
Frankfort, KY 40601
A-71
-------
APPENDIX A
Introduction
This report is written to fulfill the requirement under
PL 92-500, Section 305(b), to provide a report containing a
description of the current water quality and the effects of
water quality programs in Kentucky. The description is to
include an indication of the extent to which water quality
has, can, and will meet the goals of this act under these
programs. To this end, the Kentucky Division of Water
Quality has assembled information on past and current
water quality. Future water quality in Kentucky can only
be predicted in general terms in anticipation of policies and
decisions of local, State and Federal agencies.
The information which has been compiled and is
presented is an update of the 1975 "Kentucky Water
Quality Report to Congress." This report consists of a
re-compilation of water quality data for periods prior to
January 1, 1975, and data collected during calendar year
1975. The water quality data used were collected and re-
ported to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's
(EPA) STOrage and RETrieval (STORET) computer system
by the U.S. Geological Survey. The data was retrieved from
the STORET system and summarized in charts and tables.
The Kentucky Division of Water Quality data on trace ele-
ments and bacteriological analyses were also used. Informa-
tion concerning point source discharges was updated from
the continuing planning efforts under Section 303(e), PL
92-500. The status of municipal construction grants was
updated. A new section on major lakes was added. The U.S.
Army Corps of Engineers provided a summary of the pro-
jects within the three Districts in Kentucky. The Ohio River
Valley Sanitation Commission prepared an assessment of the
"Ohio River Main Stem" which is available for calendar
year 1975.
Summary of Water Quality
in Kentucky
The quality of water in Kentucky is the result of the
interactions of rain waters contacting the earth, flowing
over the land, soaking into and passing through the soil,
over minerals, dissolving minerals into the waters, and the
waters transporting materials to the streams. The materials
with which water contacts on its way to a stream or lake
will dictate what these waters contain once they reach a
stream or lake. Inorganic materials (soil constituents,
calcium, sulfate, chloride, etc.) will make up the bulk of the
dissolved solids and will determine a water's hardness, its
acidity/alkalinity, and other characteristics. Organic mater-
ials carried in the waters will effect to some degree the level
of dissolved oxygen in the water through physical and
biological processes in these waters.
As you read the different sections of this report, each
written for a particular river basin, the characteristics of a
river basin which have an effect on water quality will
become evident. The size of a basin will determine how
sensitive or insensitive to inflow quality a river basin is. A
small basin like the Salt River will react quickly to rains,
while a large impounded basin like Tennessee is relatively
stable and slow to change.
The geology in a basin will affect the type of water
produced. For example within the Kentucky River Basin
(Figure H-2, North Folk Kentucky River, Page 21 2), shows
waters which have contacted disturbed earth in the Eastern
Kentucky coal fields. This water is hard, high in dissolved
solids, high in sulfate, high in acidity at times and high in
chlorides. In contrast, the Red River, Pine Ridge in the
same river basin (Figure H-4, Page 214) shows waters which
have had few dissolved solids added, are relatively soft, have
normal alkalinity and are of generally high quality.
The hydrology of each river basin has been presented.
The term hydrology is used here to mean a summary of the
important aspects of the amount of water which has been
discharged past a measuring location on a stream. Table 1
shows the relative amount which eight of the ten river
basins discharge during an average year.
TABLE I
AVERAGE DISCHARGE FROM
RIVER BASINS IN KENTUCKY
Ohio River
Tennessee River
Cumberland River
Upper Cumberland River
Green River
Salt River
Kentucky River
Licking River
Big Sandy
262,000 cfs
64,000 cfs
27,500 cfs
9,100 cfs
11,000 cfs
3,300 cfs*
7,200 cfs
4,150 cfs
4,450 cfs
NOTE: These are the most downstream stations in each
basin.
*Sum of the two main streams, Rolling Fork and Salt River.
A-72
-------
APPENDIX A
The population within a river basin will have an effect
on streams due to the location and concentration of organic
loads imposed on these streams. Table 2 shows the
population within each basin.
TABLE 2
RIVER BASIN POPULATION IN KENTUCKY
There are 181 construction grants either underway or
pending in Kentucky for municipal wastewater control. Of
these 181, 161 are Step I's (evaluations), 9 are Step ll's
(design) and 11 are Step Ill's (construction). During the last
year, eight plants were given final approval on completed
construction. This completed construction improved ap-
Basin
Mississippi
Ohio
Tennessee
Lower Cumberland
Upper Cumberland
Green
Salt
Kentucky
Licking
Big Sandy
Total
Population
(1970 censes)
56,637
993,001
68,412
92,380
260,000
426,000
507,233
534,000
211,000
112,000
3,261,072
Drainage Population
area density
Kentucky No./Sq.Mi.
1,250
6,090
1,000
1,900
5,077
8,821
2,932
7,033
3,700
2,285
40,088
45.3
163.1 '
68.4
48.6
51.0
48.3
1732
1052
57.0
49.5
81.3
Population greater than 50,000:
Louisville, Owensboro
2 Lexington.
Table 3 shows the point source loads on streams
which are predicted to depress the dissolved oxygen below
summary of the grant status in Kentucky. Each river basin
section contains a list of the facilities receiving grants.
TABLE 4
SUMMARY OF GRANTS TO
MUNICIPALITIES IN KENTUCKY
Basin
Step
Mississippi 7
Ohio 33
Tennessee 5
Lower Cumberland 7
Upper Cumberland 21
Green 27
Salt 9
Kentucky 30
Licking 14
Big Sandy 8
Total 161
I Step II
0
2
0
0
1
0
3
1
2
0
9
Step III
0
3
0
1
0
1
2
2
2
0
11
each basin. This table shows the effect of all treated
effluents on streams in Kentucky in relation to the
predicted dissolved oxygen content during design flows.
Table 3 also shows that municipalities in Kentucky contri-
bute 35 percent, industries contribute 7 percent, and small
discharges contribute 58 percent of the organic point
source loads which may cause dissolved oxygen to be less
than 5.0 mg/l in Kentucky streams.
TABLE 3
POINT SOURCE LOADS* IN KENTUCKY STREAMS
Basin
Mississippi
Ohio
Tennessee
Lower Cumberland
Upper Cumberland
Green
Salt
Kentucky
Licking
Big Sandy
Total
Stream
miles
studied
275
431
248
360
752
1,670
596
868
1,000
560
6,760
Dissolved oxygen predicted less
than 5.0 mg/l
Total
miles
84
85
59
62
167
214
160
145
384
250
1,609
Municipal
13
36
15
40
25
173
61
119
89
10
570
Industrial
26
8
14
0
0
6.8
8
0
46
5
114
Other
45
41
30
22
151
34.5
91
26
249
235
925
*1975 Wasteload Allocation from 303(e) River Basin plans.
NOTE: These are pending and projects underway.
Table 5 shows the municipal dollar needs estimated in
1974 by category in order that cities in Kentucky may
meet water quality criteria and growth expectations.
The trace chemical water quality was compared to
standards set by Kentucky in relation to health and public
water supplies and to proposed EPA standards. The waters
which did not meet these standards are in coal mining areas.
The streams were Tradewater River, Olney (iron greater
than 300 mg/l), and Pond River near Sacramento (fluoride
greater than 1.0 microgram/liter).
The Division of Water instituted bacteriological mon-
itoring at selected public water supply treatment facilities
in FY 74. The data from this program are presented in the
water quality data tables. Since the period of record is only
two years, no concrete conclusions have been drawn from
the data at this time. A preliminary cursory look at this
data indicates that the coliform bacteria (total and fecal)
are high in relation to the State criteria. A simple arithmetic
mean of all total coliform data gives a result of 2,600
colonies per 100ml statewide. This represents 644 obser-
vations of which 263 were greater than the standard or
41 percent exceedance.
When this recreational standard was exceeded or
expected to be exceeded, a determination of fecal coliform
was made. Of 238 observations of fecal coliform, 90 or 38
A-73
-------
APPENDIX A
TABLE 5
1974 NEEDS SURVEY
Category
1974 Needs
(thousands of dollars)
Category I
Secondary treatment
Category II
Advanced treatment
Category III A
Inflow/infiltration correction
Category 1MB
Major sewer system rehabilitation
Category IV A
New collectors
Category IV B
New interceptors
Category V
Correction of combined
sewer overflows
Category VI
Treatment and/or control
of stormwaters
Total
54,751
294,166
62,743
84,181
543,749
412,632
706,559
2,052,631
4,211,412
percent, were greater than 400 colonies per 100ml. The
sixth annual report of the Council on Environmental
Quality on Page 361, Table 18 shows that 67 percent of the
analyses for fecal coliform exceeded the recreation criter-
ion. The arithmetic average of fecal coliform analyses in
Kentucky was 85 colonies per 100ml of stream water
analyzed.
A copy of Kentucky's current regulation
401 KAR 5:025 is included in the report for your reference
in comparing specific quality conditions reported to the
current standards. These standards also appear in each data
section of the river basin reports for each parameter
reported.
A-74
-------
APPENDIX A
Summary - State of Maine
Complete copies of the State of Maine
305(b) Report can be obtained from
the State agency listed below:
Division of Water Quality Evaluation
and Planning
Bureau of Water Quality Control
Department of Environmental Protec-
tion
Statehouse
Augusta, ME 04330
A-75
-------
APPENDIX A
Introduction
with over 5,500 lakes and ponds. Eleven major river basins
are located at least partially within the State's boundaries
The State of Maine, situated in the northeastern (Figure 1). The largest of these, located entirely within the
corner of the United States, covers an area of 33,215 square State, is the Penobscot River Basin with a drainage of 8,910
miles. Some 2,175 square miles (7 percent) are covered square miles.
FIGURE 1 v_
BASIN PLANNING AREAS \/
1 St. John
2 St. Croix
3 Penobscot
4 Kennabec
5 Androscoggin
6 Presumpscot
7 Southern Maine
8 Coastal
^\ROA/^
£
V
x>
£
cC
%
u-
£
10 0 10 20
FEBRUARY 1975
A-76
-------
APPENDIX A
Maine's 3,500 mile coastline abuts the Atlantic Ocean
forming numerous bays and harbors.
The lakes, rivers, and the coastline provide for
numerous activities. Recreational interests include fishing,
boating, swimming, and sightseeing. Many lakes and ponds
serve as the water supply for various communities. Com-
mercial interests include fish and shellfish harvesting. Rivers
in the State provide for power generation, and in some
cases for transportation.
The progress of the on-going effort to clean up
certain waterways of the State and maintain the predomi-
nantly high quality of the others is stated in this report.
This year's 305(b) Report updates last year's comparatively
extensive report and states the projects completed during
the past year and those presently being undertaken.
Summary
Water quality within the State has improved some
during the past year through the construction of treatment
facilities in various municipalities and industries, and has
been measured through the efforts of certain government
agencies. Recent trends show improvement because of these
new facilities, although additional Federal funds are needed
if these trends are to continue.
Table 1 gives the present water quality status within
the State's major river basins. As yet it is too early to
measure the extent of the lasting benefits that have been
derived by the introduction of waste treatment facilities
put into operation last year.
Maine's second largest industry is tourism. Visitors
flock into the State during all four seasons but the influx is
greatest, of course, during the summer season. This is due
chiefly to Maine's climate, camping, and summer resort
areas. The continuance of this thriving industry can only be
guaranteed by maintaining our predominantly high-quality
waters and by improving the quality of those that are not
high quality. The pollution problem is greatest at the
same time the State has its largest number of tourists—
during the summer months. This stresses the need for
adequate planning to ensure that water quality will not be
degraded during high waste generation periods that are
coupled with low flow times.
Maine's largest industry is the fishing industry. Water
quality along the coast obviously has a direct bearing on
how prosperous the fishing industry will be. Many shell-
fishing areas have been closed due to malfunctioning septic
systems, "straight pipes," and some agricultural runoff.
Table 2 lists the shellfishing areas that have been reopened
due to waste treatment facilities.
The cost of constructing waste treatment facilities is
high but must be met to ensure economic stability of
Maine's two largest industries. Reduction in pollution
abatement efforts would have a direct disastrous effect on
both the fishing and tourist industries.
In the past, non-point source pollution has been
largely ignored as a source of water quality degradation. Its
existence had been accepted but little investigation had
been done due to the difficulty of identifying it and the
problems associated with its correction. Recently however,
an increased effort has been taken towards the non-point
source problem. The chief contributors to the problem
come from agricultural and silvicultural activities along with
malfunctioning private septic systems which contaminate
ground water.
TABLE 1
STATE OF MAINE 305(b) WATER QUALITY INVENTORY SUMMARY
1
River basin or
coastal drainage
including
mainstem and
major
tributaries
Penobscot
Kennebec
Androscoggin
St. John
Salmon Falls Piscataqua
Saco
St. Croix
Presumpscot
2
Total miles
379
325
320
351
157
230
87
58
3
Miles now
meeting
Class B
(fishable/
swimmable)
180
152
150
269
120
212
77
21
4
Miles expected
to meet
Class B by
1983
364.4
263.2
313.7
278.6
157
227.5
77
58
5
Miles now
meeting
State WQ
Standards
364.4
263.2
313.7
259.7
157
227.5
77
51.3
6
Miles not
meeting
State WQ
Standards
14.6
61.8
6.3
91.3
-
2.5
20
6.7
7*
Water quality
problems
4,5,6,
4,5
1,2,5,6
2,5,6
5,6
1,5,6
5,6
5,6
8
Point source
causes of
WQ problems
M=Municipal
l = lndustrial
M.I
M
M.I
M.I
M
M.I
I
M.I
9
Non-point
source
causes of
problems
1=Major
2=Minor
3=N/A
3
1
2
1
2
2
3
2
'Column 1-Water Quality Problems: 1. Harmful substances; 2. Physical modification (suspended solids, temperatures etc.); 3. Eutrophication
potential; 4. Salinity, acidity, alkalinity; 5. Oxygen depletion; 6. Health hazards.
A-77
-------
APPENDIX A
TABLE 2
ACRES OF CLAM FLAT AREAS CLEANED UP DUE TO WASTE TREATMENT FACILITIES
Facility
Cape Elizabeth
Mt. Desert Northeast Harbor
Ogunquit S.D.
Thomaston
Waldoboro
Wiscasset
Yarmouth
Class of DEP basin
Receiving water receiving water planning area
Spurwink River
Tidewaters of Mt. Desert
Ogunquit River Estuary
St. George River Estuary
Medomak River Estuary
Sheepscot River Estuary
Royal River Estuary
SC
SB-1
SB-2
SA
SA
SB-1
SB-2
Presumpscot
Coastal
Southern Me.
Coastal
Coastal
Coastal
Presumpscot
Acres of clam flats
cleaned up due to facility*
(Seasonal depuration) 17
240
40
Approx. 1,280
Approx. 980
Seasonal 30
Depuration 31
NOTE: Taken in part from Regional Administrator's Report, Region I - New England, Environmental Quality in New England, July 1975.
*0f these areas cleaned up, approximately 2,500 acres have been opened to harvesting.
More effort in these areas is needed to establish good
conservation practices in agriculture and forestry. More
public participation and awareness is needed in areas
involving individual disposal site selection. Additional work
is needed to determine the extent of the various causes of
non-point source pollution and to discover and implement
various control measures to reduce this problem.
The following specific problem areas exist in some
river basins around the State where water quality standards
are violated.
1. The Little Androscoggin River from South Paris
to Oxford.
2. The Sebasticook River from the Irving Tanning
outfall to the confluence with the Kennebec
River.
3. The East Branch of the Sabasticook River from
Dexter Village to the confluence with the main
branch of the Sebasticook River.
4. The Penobscot River from the confluence of
Millinocket Stream to Weldon Dam.
5. The Presumpscot River from Westbrook to
Falmouth.
6. The St. Croix River from the Georgia Pacific
Co. outfall in Woodland to the head of tide at
Calais.
7. The St. John River from the Fraser PaperCo.,
Ltd. outfall in Madawaska to the U.S. Canadian
border.
8. The Aroostook River from the confluence of
Salmon Brook at Washburn to the U.S. Cana-
dian border.
9. The Prestile Stream from the Vahlsing, Inc.
outfall to the U.S. Canadian border.
10. The Mousam River from the outfall of the
Sanford Sewerage District lagoons to the head
of tide.
11. The Goosefare Brook from the outfall of the
Maremont Corporation in Saco to the head of
tide.
With the exception of the segments on the Pre-
sumpscot River and Prestile Stream, it appears that these
areas will not meet the 1983 goals. Table 1 lists the distances
involved in these segments.
A-78
-------
APPENDIX A
Summary - State of Maryland
Complete copies of the State of
Maryland 305(b) Report can be
obtained from the State agency listed
below:
Maryland Environmental Service
Tawes State Office Building
Annapolis, MD 21404
A-79
-------
APPENDIX A
Introduction
The State of Maryland prepared a very detailed
Section 305(b) Report entitled, "Maryland Water
Quality — 1975," which was released in November 1975. In
the interest of continuing a sustained effort in various other
aspects of the State's water quality management program,
the State concluded for 1976 only to update the respective
sub-basin chapters of the Section 305(b) Report. For that
reason, listed below in the remaining sections of this report,
are the updated materials provided by the Water Quality
Services Section of the Water Resources Administration.
This material has been written based on the sampling work
accomplished in 1975 and the subsequent analysis of it.
The Water Quality Services Section's priorities at the
present time are to continue intensive monitoring to
provide information for wasteload allocations, continue the
non-point source sampling initiated in the Ocean Coastal
area, and use experience gained there in accomplishing
work under contract to the Regional Planning Council, a
designated agency for areawide waste treatment manage-
ment planning in the Baltimore region. The Sections will
also undertake the necessary effort of non-point source
assessment in the non-designated areas of the State. The
Planning section, which has edited this report in final form,
has concentrated its efforts on completing the Phase 1
Water Quality Management Plans and developing the Phase
2 Work Plan for Water Quality Management Planning. The
State has determined these respective activities of the Water
Quality Services and the Planning Sections to be of higher
priority than the additional effort at this time on the
Section 305(b) Report.
Summary
As indicated in the sub-basin sections, in many
segments there have not been any significant changes
discerned in water quality because there has not been any
additional sampling to speak of in 1975. Furthermore,
many segments that were sampled did not indicate any
significant change.
Noteworthy among the improvements are the Pa-
tapsco and Patuxent Basins. It is worth noting that over the
last year, 47,000 acres have been opened for shellfish
harvesting and 23,000 acres closed for a net gain of 23,700
acres of shellfish harvesting opened in the last year.
Noteworthy among the setbacks in terms of water
quality are the continuing difficulties of establishing non-
point source control to the extent of eliminating shellfish
closures in the Patuxent Basin and the particular water
quality problems created by hurricane "Eloise."
Included in each of the nondesignated area sub-basin
chapters is the text from the submitted grant application
for Phase 2 planning that deals with the subject of non-point
source assessment. Additional material on this subject will
be forthcoming as the State initiates and completes its
Phase 2 water quality management planning effort.
An estimate has been made of the cost of preparing
or revising conservation plans for all of the farms in the
State, a continuation of the current soil conservation
service program which is carried out through the conserva-
tion districts in each county of the State. This information
(Tables 1 and 2) is the only detailed information available
at this time on non-point source control.
The State has received a grant offer in the amount of
$148,457 with which to undertake Phase 2 planning in 16
counties. Additional funds are expected in the near future.
Within the last year, Phase 1 Water Quality Manage-
ment Plans have been completed and adopted for the Elk,
Youghiogheny and Lower Susquehanna sub-basins. The
Potomac Metropolitan Area Sub-Basin plan was adopted in
March 1975. In addition, draft plans have been completed
for the North Branch Potomac, Upper Potomac, Middle
Potomac, West Chesapeake, Nanticoke, Pocomoke, Ocean
Coastal and Patuxent sub-basins. The draft Patapsco Plan
on which hearings were held in 1975 is still under revision.
The reader is referred to these plans.
This year's report does not include an updated
summary of the Overview of the Potomac Basin.
The basin plans also carry additional information on
the cost for meeting the point source control needs.
A-80
-------
TABLE 1
APPENDIX A
STATUS OF CONSERVATION PLANNING (1975) BY COUNTY
Conservation
agreements
approved &
on File *
VI
^
U
CO
t-
£1
CD
>
U
agreements
Conservation
o
, M-
•S "2
if
Q. >
(A
0)
u
CO
1
covered by
(/>
C
CO
Q.
O
T3
o>
CO
4-»
tft
111
&i^r
.-: en ^
fe.E §
10 IS °
15 fe.E
Anne Arundel
Harford
Dorchester
Queen Anne's
Kent
Baltimore
Allegany
Caroline
Talbot
Cecil
Howard
Frederick
Washington
Charles
St. Mary's
Garrett
Calve rt
Somerset
Montgomery
Wicomico
Worcester
Prince George's
Carroll
Total
Acres
0-9 " 10+
102 435
35 969
56 1 ,050
41 666
17 692
64 948
72 573
9 969
10 328
49 544
37 616
47 1,315
17 883
31 732
21 649
6 462
84 560
39 740
22 425
30 779
28 948
26 261
19 1,072
862 16,616
Acres
0-9 10+
381 64,150
212 198,861
237 218,346
232 144,949
84 142,804
358 122,565
310 135,629
44 129,571
56 69,071
248 95,184
175 82,146
262 137,382
106 129,854
199 132,307
167 106,024
31 79,424
352 58,633
250 104,996
109 72,479
166 82,429
168 156,768
93 59,098
105 119,958
4,345 2,642,619
Acres
0-9 1 0+
73 290
32 729
27 617
19 360
12 400
50 811
54 475
6 761
6 185
25 330
20 370
33 946
13 683
19 516
15 534
4 251
46 421
39 677
13 208
23 607
22 712
19 223
17 906
587 12,012
Acres
0-9 10+
258 31,392
194 173,654
130 128,111
119 76,105
58 71,020
228 91,424
238 96,749
33 101,781
33 37,165
130 51,193
98 56,534
184 117,984
77 95,650
125 92,010
133 87,112
27 47,631
186 41,645
227 97,145
55 35,837
128 62,814
130 133,978
72 33,213
93 100,338
2,956 1,860,485
Acres
0-9 10+
50 420
44 795
25 450
120 1,093
40 550
1 32 934
86 774
120 1,100
27 385
24 560
108 885
90 2,560
40 920
100 1,080
244 956
25 732
212 934
150 2,000
25 720
212 825
127 987
250 1 ,000
50 2,950
2,301 23,610
Acres in Co.
266,841
286,720
371,198
238,719
181,760
389,260
272,641
204,801
178,560
225,281
159,750
424,961
295,675
293,126
234,878
423,678
140,159
21 2,480
315,606
243,201
309,121
310,258
289,871
6,268,545
Source: Soil Conservation Service, College Park.
'Conservation agreements number includes holdings that are not classed as commercial agriculture. Estimated number of agricultural operation
units in county column does not include non-agriculture operating units which may well be agreements.
TABLE 2
PROJECTED TEN YEAR COSTS OF PLANNING
APPLICATION OF FARM CONSERVATION PLANS IN
THE STATE OF MARYLAND
Alternative
Current program
Accelerated beyond
current program
Total accelerated
program
accomplishment
Indirect costs
Total
Plan production Total estimated cost
(No.) ($1,000,000)
13,775 $15,900,000
10,819 19,400,000
24,594* 35,300,000
$10,600,000
$45,900,000
'Total includes revisions to keep completed plans current; 23,610
operating agricultural units in Maryland in 1975.
A-81
-------
APPENDIX A
Summary - State of Massachusetts
Complete copies of the State of
Massachusetts 305(b) Report can be
obtained from the State agency listed
below:
Commonwealth of Massachusetts
Water Resources Commission
Leverett Saltonstall Building
Government Center
100 Cambridge Street
Boston, MA 02202
A-83
-------
APPENDIX A
Summary
Introduction
The following report was prepared in response to
Section 305(b) of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act
Amendments of 1972 (PL92-500). This report is an
assessment of the present conditions of Massachusetts river
basins as of January 1, 1976. The objectives of this report
are:
1. To present the existing water quality of the
main streams of the State based on the latest
available data;
2. To compare the existing water quality with the
stream classifications; and
3. To evaluate water quality problems preventing
the streams from meeting their assigned goals.
Point Source Water Quality Problems
The Commonwealth of Massachusetts is divided into
twenty-seven major drainage basins for the purpose of
water quality management planning. These basins are the
Massachusetts portions of the following rivers:
river miles are now meeting State Water Quality Standards
(Table 1).
As a result of the existing water quality problems, the
present quality of many of the State's streams are below
desired levels; in fact, many segments are presently in
unsatisfactory conditions. The causes of such extreme
degradation are known and the necessary abatement mea-
sures have been given high priority so that 1983 fishable/
swimmable goals can be met.
Non-point Source Problems
Sections affected by non-point sources are not listed
in this submittal. This information is currently not avail-
able. Existing major untreated discharges in many river
basins mask any effects which might be present from
non-point sources. Water quality surveys will be completed
in the river basins after secondary treatment facilities have
been completed. These surveys, which will be carried out
over the next three years, will locate sources of non-point
pollution.
Hoosic River
Housatonic River
Deerfield River
Westfield River
Farmington River
Connecticut River
Millers River
Chicopee River
French and Quinebaug Rivers
Nashua River
Blackstone River
Merrimack River
Buzzards Bay drainage area
Ten Mile River
Together these basins drain some 9,645 square miles
and comprise 1,462 major river miles. There has been a
great deal of improvement throughout the State over past
years. However, the most critical problems have yet to be
solved. These problems dominate the water quality of the
State's rivers and, in many cases, overshadow the benefits
from the recent improvements. This is best indicated by the
fact that only 440 (30 percent) of Massachusetts' major
Concord and Sudbury Rivers
Assabet River
Shawsheen River
Parker River
Ipswich River
North Coastal drainage area
Boston Harbor
Charles River
North River
South Coastal drainage area
Cape Cod drainage area
The Islands
Taunton River
All known significant point sources of pollution have
been issued National Pollutant Discharge Elimination Sys-
tem (NPDES) permits. These permits indicate the abate-
ment measures necessary to meet the requrred water quality
goals of the State.
Major intensive water quality surveys will be conduc-
ted by the Division in 1977, 1978, and 1979. At that time,
construction of wastewater treatment plants will be either
completed or near completion and the Division of Water
Pollution Control will be able to assess its impact on the
water quality. With the completion of these surveys, an
assessment will be made as to how the treatment plant
construction has helped toward upgrading water quality
and meeting the 1972 requirements. The annual 305(b)
updates will provide information concerning the progress of
water quality towards both the 1972 requirements and the
1983 goals.
Continued emphasis is on construction of municipal
and industrial water pollution control facilities, as well as
evaluation of non-point sources of pollution.
A-84
-------
APPENDIX A
TABLE 1
WATER QUALITY CONDITIONS IN MASSACHUSETTS RIVER BASINS
Drainage basin
Blackstone
Boston Harbor
Charles River
Chicopee
Connecticut
Deerfield
Farmington (total)
(Mass.)
French and Quinebaug
Hoosic (total)
(Mass.)
Housatonic (total)
(Mass.)
Ipswich and Parker
Merrimack (total)
(Mass.)
Millers (total)
(Mass.)
Nashua
North River
Suasco
(Sudbury
(Assabet
Concord
Taunton
Ten Mile
Westfield
Total
% of total miles
River basin or
coastal drainage
(main stem and
major tributaries)
328
265
720
2,949
666
602
149
241
713
165
1,950
500
5,000
1,200
390
350
530
105.4
381
169)
175)
27)
530
49
517
9,645.4
8
1
"nj
+-"
.2
106.8
43.75
80.8
111.5
67.5
69.9
18.4
56.6
42.6
96.3
66.4
1 1 5.39
57.5
103.71
20.6
86.1
134
38.1
114.2
1,429.65
O D)
c cm
w '43 t/i
03
~ Q> CO
5 E 0
30.7
0.0
0.4
43.7
0.0
33.5
18.4
19.1
17.3
26.4
64.1
0.0
6.5
5.43
11.6
0.0
18.0
3.8
68.7
367.63
26%
Miles now
meeting state
WQ standards
35.7
6.9
1.4
66.5
0.0
40.6
18.4
20.3
19.6
30.9
64.1
0.0
6.5
5.43
11.6
0.0
35.2
3.8
73.4
440.33
31%
Miles not
meeting state
WQ standards
71.1
36.85
79.4
45.0
67.5
29.3
0.0
36.3
23.0
65.4
2.3
1 1 5.39
51.0
98.28
9.0
86.1
98.8
34.3
40.3
989.32
69%
A-85
-------
APPENDIX A
Summary - State of Michigan
Complete copies of the State of
Michigan 305(b) Report can be
obtained from the State agency listed
below:
Environmental Protection Bureau
Department of Natural Resources
Stevens T. Mason Building
Lansing, Ml 48926
A-87
-------
APPENDIX A
Summary and Conclusions
What is the Present State of Michigan's Water
Quality?
Michigan's abundant natural resources include over
36,000 miles of rivers and streams, more than 11,000
inland lakes, and 38,500 square miles of Great Lakes
waters. Michigan has selected the Water Quality Index
developed by the National Sanitation Foundation to
present a summary of stream quality. As shown in Figure 1,
most of Michigan's river basins rate good to excellent on
the Water Quality Index scale for water year 1975.
(October 1974 through September 1975). Generally, rivers
in the basins shown as having medium water quality flow
through more populous areas and receive waste loads from
known point sources. Point source pollution control pro-
grams are underway in these basins which should improve
water quality. Any problems which remain will have to be
addressed by non-point source programs.
Recent studies on inland lakes show that approxi-
mately 40 percent of all Michigan lakes surveyed (with sur-
face areas greater than 50 acres) are experiencing aging
problems (eutrophication). Nutrients and pollutants enter
lakes from direct discharges (industries, municipal waste-
water treatment plants) and non-point sources (stormwater
runoff, agricultural runoff). Presently there are 143 lakes
and impoundments (greater than 50 acres) receiving in-
dustrial and/or municipal waste discharges directly or from
tributaries where discharges are within 20 river miles up-
stream of the lake. Nutrient reduction in lakes from point
sources is being achieved through removal of the point
sources or improved treatment prior to discharge. Since
1965, approximately 24 industrial and/or municipal point
sources have been removed from inland lakes. However,
most of the nutrient addition to the lakes is believed to be
the result of non-point sources.
Water quality in the Great Lakes is generally excellent
with a few exceptions. Only a handful of municipalities,
industries, and electrical generating plants discharge wastes
directly to the Great Lakes. By contrast, the connecting
channels of the Great Lakes are subjected to numerous
waste loads from municipal and industrial sources. How-
ever, vigorous corrective programs have achieved overall
improvements in water quality especially in the Detroit
River.
Where Are We Going From Here?
According to PL 92-500, the natural water quality
goals are to provide for the protection and propagation of
fish, and for recreation in and on the water by July 1,
1983. Presently, most of Michigan's waters meet these
goals. With very few exceptions, due mostly to natural
limitations or to toxicity problems (Figure 2), it is expected
that all waters in the State will meet these goals. Michigan
has added an additional goal to provide water quality
suitable for public water supplies.
National effluent goals are set up in three steps. By
July 1, 1977 all publicly owned treatment plants must
provide at least secondary treatment. All other point source
dischargers must achieve the best practicable control
technology (EPCT) as defined by EPA. By July 1, 1983 all
publicly owned treatment works must provide BPCT. All
other point sources must provide the best technology
economically available. Finally, by 1985 all point source
discharge of wastes must be eliminated. Michigan feels
industries will generally meet the 1977 goal. However,
problems with funding levels for the municipal plants will
likely delay their meeting the 1977 goal. The 1983 and
1985 goals should be reviewed and possibly revised to
reflect the actual progress toward the immediate 1977
goals. Consideration should be given to the improvement in
water quality which would be realized through meeting
these goals.
How is Michigan's Abatement Program Working?
Most regulatory efforts in Michigan have been direc-
ted to point source discharges. The effects of major point
sources of pollution are best shown by comparing the water
quality above and below major urban areas (Figure 3).
Historically, the majority of Michigan's pollution problems
have been caused by municipal sewage plant wastes.
Fortunately, these sources can be controlled through
existing technology. Effluent quality for these plants has
improved in recent years (Figure 4). Industrial wastes are
also contributors to the pollution problem. Improvements
in municipal and industrial effluents are directly related to
the time schedules for pollution control established in
permits to discharge. The majority of Michigan industries
are expected to meet final effluent limitations by the end
of 1976. Surveillance programs follow the industries'
compliance with permit conditions. Figure 5 indicates the
shift in emphasis of enforcement activities from time
schedule violations to the failure to meet the final effluent
limits defined in the permits.
Accidental discharges and all spills, and other hazard-
ous pollutants are problems which are not controlled
through programs aimed at point source discharges.
Therefore, Michigan initiated its Pollution Incident Preven-
tion Plan (PIPP) program to prevent accidental losses from
occurring. Accidental losses should continue to create fewer
environmental problems due to the PIPP program.
The control of non-point sources of pollution is
beginning to receive more attention in Michigan. A Soil
Erosion and Sedimentation Control program is underway
which requires counties or local agencies to issue permits
for earth changes which might affect water quality. In
addition, local planning groups are beginning to thoroughly
study the problem of sediment delivery and storm runoff to
Michigan's waters.
A-88
-------
APPENDIX A
FIGURE 1
AVERAGE WATER QUALITY
WATER YEAR 1975
THE AVERAGE WATER QUALITY CONDITIONS, AS MEASURED BY
THE WATER QUALITY INDEX, AT STATIONS SAMPLED BY >
THE MICHIGAN WATER RESOURCES COMMISSION
I I 71 - 100 (GOOD)
{^] 51 - 70 (MEDIUM)
^B 0 SO (POOR)
A-89
-------
APPENDIX A
FIGURE 2
FISHING BANS AND RESTRICTIONS
MERCURY FISH CONSUMPTION WARNING
MERCURY COMMERCIAL FISHING BAN
AND FISH CONSUMPTION WARNING
PCB COMMERCIAL CATFISH FISHING BAN
PCS FISH CONSUMPTION WARNING
AND COMMERCIAL FISHING BAN ON
SOME SPECIES
PBB FISH CONSUMPTION WARNING
PINE RIVER
PCB, DDT AND MERCURY FISH
CONSUMPTION WARNING
A-90
-------
APPENDIX A
SO.-i
O 40.
zee
< ui
i!
o
c
M
ec
in
30.
20.
10.
FIGURE 3
IMPACT OF URBAN AREAS ON WATER QUALITY
WATER YEAR 1975
— 8 MAJOR MUNICIPAL AREAS —
THE DIFFERENCE OF THE WATER QUALITY
INDEX BETWEEN UPSTREAM AND DOWN-
STREAM STATIONS DURING JUNE 76 THROUGH
SEPTEMBER 75 INDICATES THE IMPACT THE
URBAN AREA HAS ON ITS RECEIVING WATER
>cy /
tf&/
&-•/
v?3
V-.'.
£%
Ki%
>sx/^ H>>>;;//
i^;^ [£^
K^i-xl B>";v
MAXIMUM
AVERAGE
!
<
oc
§
tc.
i
M
(9 OC
i
§
SELECTED URBAN AREAS
A-91
-------
APPENDIX A
FIGURE 4
EFFLUENT QUALITY AND CONSTRUCTION GRANT DOLLARS
ALLOCATED FOR MAJOR MUNICIPAL WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANTS
1,400,000
1,200,000
1,000,000
>
CO
no
I 800,000
Q
Q
O
m
600,000
400,000
200,000
.i
,,
kG&
J - 1 - 1
J ' '
1,
1,400
1,200
800
600
400
200
280
240
200
CO
O
160 -
CO
cr
_
O
o
120
80
40
A-92
-------
APPENDIX A
FIGURE 5
NPDES ENFORCEMENT ACTIVITY
EXCLUDES ENFORCEMENT NOTICES FOR NON-NPDES VIOLATIONS, SUCH AS
ACCIDENTAL LOSSES, UNLICENSED WASTE HAULERS, SOIL EROSION, ETC.
1974 - 284 ENFORCEMENT NOTICES ISSUED
FAILURE TO MONITOR
OR REPORT
PERMIT SCHEDULE VIOLATIONS
OR EXTENSIONS
59 %
1975 — 699 ENFORCEMENT NOTICES ISSUED
FAILURE TO MONITOR OR
REPORT
35%
PERMIT SCHEDULE
VIOLATIONS OR
EXTENSIONS
33%
FAILURE TO MEET
EFFLUENT LIMITS
A-93
-------
APPENDIX A
How Much is This Going to Cost?
The costs of implementing PL 92-500 will be borne
principally by municipal and industrial dischargers and
regulatory agencies. Municipalities will generally be re-
quired to meet secondary treatment requirements, pass and
enforce sewer ordinances, regulate industrial wastes in their
system, revise user charges and establish cost recovery
programs. Industries will also be required to meet effluent
limitations, sample and analyze their wastes, and report
regularly to the pollution control agencies. These agencies
in turn must issue and enforce permits, award construction
grants, conduct planning studies and meet other Federal
requirements. A summary of these costs is shown in
Figure 6.
It should be noted that PL 92-500 requires all
discharges to provide a minimum level of waste treatment.
Substantial expenditures are sometimes necessary to pro-
vide this minimum level treatment. In some cases these
expenditures would not have been necessary to maintain
Michigan's Water Quality Standards. Although Federal
requirements may improve or maintain stream quality
above the levels established in Michigan's Water Quality
Standards, the expenditures may not improve the potential
uses of the water (i.e., swimming, fishing, water supply).
However, the policy of setting minimum treatment require-
ments does help to avoid the competitive advantage which
occurs within industry groups when there are great differ-
ences in the ability of the receiving waters to assimilate
wastes. In addition it provides a margin for industrial
expansion and population increase in many cases.
The benefits of improved water quality are difficult
to quantify. Many benefits are intangibles which cannot be
assigned dollar values by traditional economic analysis. In
general the benefits of pollution control include increased
recreational opportunities, increased tourism, aesthetic im-
provements, reduction in treatment costs at public water
supplies, reduced public health hazards, and increases in
property values.
A-94
-------
APPENDIX A
FIGURE 6
PROJECTED POLLUTION CONTROL COSTS 1974-1977
9.0
8.0
7.0
6.0
(A
CD
Z
CA
K
5.0
O 4-0
Q
3.0
2.0
1.0
STORM
WATER
TREATMENT
COMBINED
SEWER
BYPASS
ELIM.
INTERCEP-
TOR
SEWERS
COLLECTING
SEWERS
I/I AND
SEWER
REPAIR
TREATMENT
PLANT
CONSTRUC-
TION
O&M COSTS AND
INDUSTRIAL SURVEILLANCE
PRETREAT-
MENT
O&M
CAPITAL
COSTS
FOR
DIRECT
DISCHARGES
MUNICIPAL COSTS
INDUSTRIAL COSTS
9.0
8.0
7.0
6.0
5.0
4.0
3.0
2.0
1.0
A-95
-------
APPENDIX A
Summary - State of Minnesota
Complete copies of the State of
Minnesota 305(b) Report can be
obtained from the State agency listed
below:
Division of Water Quality
Minnesota Pollution Control Agency
1935 West County Road B-2
Roseville, MN 55113
A-97
-------
APPENDIX A
Summary
This report provides an assessment of the water
quality of the major rivers in Minnesota for the 1975 water
year (October 1, 1974 to September 30, 1975).
Water quality conditions of 26 rivers plus Lake
Superior are assessed in this report. The rivers are grouped
and presented according to the eleven basin planning areas
designated for Section 303(e) basin plans. Data for 13
significant water quality parameters are presented, disucs-
sed and compared with applicable state water quality
standards. For the four major rivers the Mississippi
River, the Minnesota River, the Red River of the North,
and the Rainy River-plots of river mile versus con-
centration of pollutant are also presented. The study
used chemical and physical data from a total of 71 state
monitoring stations in the STOrage and RETrieval (STO-
RET) system. Primary network monitoring stations used in
this report are normally located at points representative of
the most critical reaches in a stream. Therefore, the average
water quality of the stream as a whole will generally be
better than the quality at specific monitoring stations.
The following specific information is given for each
basin planning area: Background information, population,
water uses, number of municipal and industrial point
dischargers, specific water quality problems, and apparent
trends. Probable causes of water quality problems and the
current programs for pollution abatement are also discus-
sed.
The existing water quality in each basin was com-
pared with the national interim goal of the Federal Water
Pollution Control Act. This goal states that "wherever
attainable, an interim goal of water quality which provides
for the protection and propagation of fish, shellfish, and
wildlife and provides for recreation in and on the water be
achieved by July 1, 1983." In lieu of any further classifica-
tion by EPA of what is meant by this objective, this
goal is commonly equated to class 2B in the State of
Minnesota water quality standards. Thus, the frequency of
violations of the State 2B water quality standards is indica-
tive of what areas and to what extent this goal has been
achieved in Minnesota.
This study indicated that the majority of the rivers in
the state are currently in conformance with this goal.
However, large areas of particular rivers and a substantial
number of localized areas presently appear to be in
noncompliance with applicable water quality regulations
and the interim goal. A total of six, or 22 percent, of the
27 waterways assessed in this report are considered to cur-
rently be in noncompliance with either the "fishable" and/
or the ''swimmable" aspect of the 1983 goal. Rivers or
reaches of rivers placed in this category are the Crow River,
the Cannon River, the Cottonwood River, the headwater
tributaries of the Missouri and the Des Moines Rivers, and
the Minneapolis-St. Paul Metro segment of the Mississippi
River. It is emphasized that this is based on the average
quality of all sampling stations on a river, and localized
areas may reflect lower water quality or problems with spe-
cific parameters. This is discussed in the detailed assessment
of individual rivers.
Assuming the current grant programs are continued at
existing funding levels, it is expected that three of these
rivers, or 11 percent of the total 27 rivers assessed, will not
conform with the interim goal by 1983. These three rivers
are: The Missouri and the Des Moines Rivers' headwater
tributaries and the Metro segment of the Mississippi River.
The reason for this projected inability of these rivers to
conform with the goal by 1983 is primarily fiscal. In the
Des Moines and Missouri fiivers headwater tributaries,
increased funding is necessary to both upgrade inadequate
municipal treatment facilities and implement rigorous
non-point source regulatory controls. These two watersheds
have particularly acute non-point source problems attribu-
table to both agricultural activities and natural conditions.
In the Twin Cities Metro segment of the Mississippi River, it
appears that massive amounts of funds would be required
to control or eliminate combined sewer overflows, to
control urban runoff, and to better ensure the removal of
pathogens from municipal treatment plants so that the
swimmable aspect of the 1983 goal could be met.
On a statewide basis, available monitoring data
indicates that some of the violations of applicable State
water standards are caused by inadequately treated munici-
pal and industrial point dischargers. The violations caused
by point sources can be expected to be eliminated upon
completion of upgraded municipal and industrial treatment
systems. Industrial facilities are required to upgrade their
treatment if they are currently in noncompliance with the
applicable final affluent standards contained in their Na-
tional Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES)
permits. These final effluent standards are derived from the
Federal requirements of "best practicable technology"
(BPT), or for many of the industries in Minnesota the final
limitation is based upon the more stringent state require-
ments. Pursuant to the Act, industries must provide "best
available technology" (BAT) by July 1, 1983. This require-
ment to progress from BPT to BAT is expected to produce
only a limited amount of improvement -in overall water
quality in Minnesota. Those detectable improvements will
probably be apparent only in the receiving waters immedi-
ately below a few specific industries. This is based upon the
location and relatively limited amount of heavy pollution
orientated industries located in Minnesota and upon the
relatively stringent state effluent standards already applied
to industrial dischargers in Minnesota. Although specific
cost figures are not available for industrial needs, it is
estimated that industrial needs in Minnesota are less than
$700milllion (1973 dollars) or 50 percent of the total
municipal needs in Minnesota.
In the municipal sector, municipal treatment facilities
with construction needs are being delayed until Federal
funds can be obtained by the community. Current levels of
Federal funding for municipal wastewater treatment plants
and the control of non-point sources are hopelessly
A-98
-------
APPENDIX A
insufficient when considered in relation to the total esti-
mated needs in Minnesota. The 1974 Municipal Needs
Survey of Minnesota indicates that the total municipal
needs excluding stormwater treatment are approximately
$1,385 billion (1973 dollars).
Even if all industrial and municipal point sources are
brought into compliance, non-point loadings will continue
to cause and contribute to many water quality problems in
Minnesota. This is particularly apparent in the watersheds
where agricultural activities are the dominant land use.
There is a high probability that agricultural activities are
adversely affecting the water quality in 75 percent of the
State. The highest potential areas are the southcentral and
southwestern sections of the State.
Another significant non-point source problem in
Minnesota is inadequate septic tank systems. At present
there are approximately 300,000 individual disposal sys-
tems in the state coupled with a continuing installation rate
of approximately 10,000 to 12,000 units per year. Water
quality problems associated with septic tank system failures
include contaminated wells, sewage overflow on the surface
and to surface waters, and increased fecal coliform concen-
trations in affected surface waters. The potential for these
problems is at a maximum in shoreline developments and in
the urban fringe areas where the construction of centralized
municipal systems cannot keep pace with development.
In the Minneapolis-St. Paul Twin Cities Metro Area
and in the other urban centers of the State, urban
stormwater runoff is a major water quality problem. To
alleviate this problem, housekeeping and detention and/or
retention programs show the greatest promise for cost-
effective water quality improvement.
Other significant types of non-point sources which
impact water quality in Minnesota include silviculture,
mining, residual waste disposal, construction activities, and
dredging. The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA)
is actively involved in continuing statewide planning to
develop programs for the control or abatement of non-
point source pollution. Key programs in this effort include
Section 208 regionalized planning, the Level B Study in the
Twin Cities Metro Area, and the ongoing activities of the
many local. State, and Federal agencies which have tradi-,
tionally been involved in programs related to non-point
source control.
The Soil Conservation Commission (SCS) has been
involved in the field of non-point source control through-
out its long history. The Commission's primary concern has
been, and continues to be directed toward the control of
erosion and sedimentation. The SCS has done an enormous
amount of research in the area of erosion control. Based on
its knowledge of erosion control, the SCS has estimated
costs for non-point source control. The SCS is certainly not
the only agency which does or will work on non-point
source pollution control.
The cost to adequately control non-point sources of
pollution from cropland and pastureland would total
approximately $320 million (1975 dollars). At present
levels of regulation, funding, and manpower, this job will
take some 50 to 100 years to complete. Another agricul-
tural associated problem is the disposal of animal waste
from cattle and swine operations. This work done by the
SCS can be used in conjunction with work done by other
agencies on non-point sources.
The SCS has estimated that programs which would
noticeably improve water quality by reducing streambank
erosion would require multimillion dollar expenditures,
while corrective measures on lakeshore erosion are esti-
mated at $400 million (1975 dollars). Similarly, the SCS
estimated the cost of programs to correct erosion in
roadside right-of-way areas at $15 million (1974 dollars.)
Annual cost estimates have also been developed for
control of runoff from urban construction sites. Statewide
annual costs are estimated at $6 million (1975 dollars), of
which approximately $3.8 million is attributable to con-
struction activities in the Twin Cities Metro Area.
Recommendations
This report makes the following recommendations:
1. If the interim goal of the Act for swimmable waters is
to be achieved on a statewide basis in Minnesota by
July 1, 1983 or, for that matter, by any later date,
much more money must be allocated to plan and
construct municipal wastewater treatment plants and
to administer existing state programs.
2. In recognition of the water pollution control im-
provements which have been achieved and the ini-
tiative which has been demonstrated by the State
regulatory agencies, it is recommended that the
implementation of the provisions of the Act continue
to be administered on the State level in conjunction
with and in support of existing state programs.
3. The State 305(b) Reports should be required on a
biennial basis rather than on the current yearly basis.
State efforts could more profitably be channeled into
more direct pollution abatement activities while still
reporting progress every two years. Two-year intervals
would also reflect more significant changes and
apparent trends in water quality. This recommen-
dation corresponds to the pending legislative recom-
mendation of both the EPA and the Water Pollution
Control Federation.
4. Regulatory controls on hazardous materials, specifi-
cally polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), should be
implemented by banning or stringently restricting the
use of such materials on a national level since State
controls have already been enacted.
5. Additional funding should be allocated by the Fed-
eral government to the States for expanding addi-
tional monitoring activities. Such expanded programs
would provide an improved data base for future
305(b) Reports and other water pollution abatement
programs.
A-99
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APPENDIX A
6. It is recommended that the U.S. Corps of Engineers
commence a cooperative venture with the EPA and
the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency to monitor
and control the environmental effects of dredging on
waters of the State in order to ensure compliance with
applicable Minnesota water quality standards.
7. In order to meet the interim and subsequent goals of
the Act throughout the entire State of Minnesota,
local and Federal funds will have to be directed at the
control of non-point sources. An adequate non-point
source control program will require a close working
relationship and increased funding for the many
regulatory governmental agencies which are directly
or indirectly involved in the control of non-point
sources.
8. NPS pollution control is to a great degree dependeng
upon an informed populous. Both urban and rural
NPS pollution could be significantly lessened if each
citizen understood how his actions ultimately affects
the State's water quality. Funding should be allocated
for information dissemination and public awareness
programs. Education of the public in NPS control will
not only be a cost-effective program but may also
develop a greater ecological consciousness in each
individual.
9. The EPA should continue to provide funds on a
short-term basis to operate the tertiary wastewater
treatment plant at Ely.
10. Funds should be allocated to support the "Clean
Lakes" program as outlined in the Act. Minnesota
developed a comprehensive, lake inventory which
classifies lakes by eutrophic conditions based on
available data. The continual updating of this inven-
tory and additional Federal funding for the lake
restoration program will be necessary for the contin-
uation of a statewide lake improvement program.
A-100
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APPENDIX A
Summary - State of Mississippi
Complete copies of the State of
Mississippi 305(b) Report can be
obtained from the State agency listed
below:
Mississippi Air and Water Pollution
Control Commission
P.O. Box 827
Jackson, Ml 39205
A-101
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APPENDIX A
Section I: Conclusions
and Recommendations
It has been stated that "it is the national goal that
wherever attainable, an interim goal of water quality which
provides for the protection and propagation of fish,
shellfish, and wildlife and provides for recreation in and on
the water be achieved by July 1, 1983". The water referred
to here is defined as meaning any and all surface water
systems which are confined, impounded, or free-flowing,
and containing water for any period of the year. This
literally includes tens of thousands of lakes, streams,
ditches, and drainage canals, the majority of which are dry
or nearly dry except during periods of heavy rainfall.
Although these waters are required and projected to meet
"fishable, swimmable" standards, it is ridiculous to believe
that anyone is going to be able to fish and swim in a ditch
which contains only a few inches of water.
Nevertheless, there are about 500 streams in the state,
inlcuding these small streams, tributaries, and ditches,
which are not considered to be meeting the "fishable,
swimmable" standards. If it is assumed that there are at
least 25,000 streams, lakes, tributaries, and ditches within
the State, then 98 percent of these waters are currently
meeting fishable, swimmable standards.
However, if the small tributaries and ditches which
have no potential for fishing or swimming are excluded
from this estimate of total streams, the list contains only
about 1,000 bodies of water. Of this list, only about 78
(about 8 percent) are considered to be not meeting
"fishable, swimmable" standards. These streams should be
the major focus of attention in future control programs,
although it will be the goal to address the entire 500
streams not meeting applicable standards.
There are indications of streams in the State in which
it can definitely be said that the violations of water quality
are not man-made. These streams include the upper reaches
of Jourdan River and Black Creek in south Mississippi.
Measurements of pH have been recorded with values
ranging from 3.5 to 5.5, all of which are below the pH
standard for fish and wildlife streams.
Since there are no discharges into this segment, the
unusually low pH measurements have been attributed to
the low pH of groundwater, highly acidic soil conditions,
and the runoff from swampy areas where tannic acid
production is allowed to build up. Indeed, the lowest pH
values recorded have been during and after a heavy rainfall
incident.
Acidic soil conditions and dense pine tree forest are
quite common throughout the southern portion of Missis-
sippi, causing most streams in this area to be naturally
acidic. However, no other stream other than the Jourdan
River is known to be so consistently and grossly in violation
of the normal pH values. This one case constitutes about
0.1 percent of the total streams in the State in which
natural conditions alone cause violations in water quality
standards.
The State of Mississippi has been in the past, and is
now, basically a rural state. The urban-industrial complex,
with which massive pollution is most often associated,
exists only in one area of the State; that being the eastern
portion of the Mississippi Gulf Coast. Although several
urban type areas exist within the State, pollution problems
resulting from this urbanization are relatively insignificant.
Section II: Goals
and Objectives
Introduction
A total of 75 streams do not meet "fishable,
swimmable" standards at the present time due to human
influence. Of these streams, only Tallahalla Creek at Laurel
and Escatawpa River at Moss Point may be unable to meet
the goals of 1983 because of human influence. On the basis
of an assumed total of 1,000 streams in the State, this is less
than 0.2 percent. The reasons, as mentioned in Chapter IV,
are due to specific industrial discharges which treat to
current best applicable technology levels and still violate
the dissolved oxygen standard. Until technology can de-
velop better means of treatment which are economically
achievable, exceptions to "fishable, swimmable" standards
will probably be maintained.
As stated previously, the 75 streams referred to above
are streams which could be used for fishing and/or
swimming most of the time, if it were not for human
influence. If the dry ditches are included, the estimate of
total number of streams in the State has been placed at
25,000. Including the municipal and domestic discharges
into these dry streams, it is estimated that about 200 of
these discharges will not meet "fishable, swimmable"
standards by 1983, due in most cases to a lack of available
funds. This represents about 0.8 percent of the total
number of streams in the State (based on 25,000) in which
human influence will prevent attainment of "fishable,
swimmable" standards by 1983.
The streams in the State in which natural conditions
will preclude fishing and/or swimming in 1983 due to low
pH values caused by acidic soil conditions and runoff from
swampy pine forest areas constitute less than 0.1 percent of
the total number of streams in the State, (based on 1,000
total streams).
Whether a basis of 1,000 streams (those actually
"fishable" and/or "swimmable") is used or 25,000 streams
(including all tributaries and ditches), it can be stated that
over 99 percent of the streams in Mississippi are projected
to meet the "fishable, swimmable" standards by 1983.
Recent Improvements
Since the adoption of PL 92-500, Mississippi munici-
palities have received over 40 million dollars in Federal
A-102
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APPENDIX A
grants and 16 million dollars in State loans for planning and
construction of wastewater treatment facilities. Major cities
in which new sewage treatment plants have been built in
recent years include Jackson, Biloxi, Greenville, Hatties-
burg, Vicksburg, Greenwood, Natchez, Oxford, Corinth,
Yazoo City, Brookhaven, and Grenada.
Probably the largest single improvement in the State
resulting from control programs has been the start-up of the
new Jackson treatment plant and subsequent removal of
several raw sewage discharges into the Pearl River. Although
it is too early for monitoring data to reflect any changes in
water quality, improvements in the Pearl River are visibly
noticable. Similar improvements have resulted in Greenville,
Vicksburg, and Natchez, where raw sewage, previously
dumped into the Mississippi River, is now being treated by
modern activated sludge facilities.
Proper treatment of industrial waste such as Masonite
Corporation on The Tallahala Creek, Bryan Brothers on
Tibbee Creek, and numerous light to heavy industries on
the Escatawpa River have also contributed substantially to
the improvement of the State's waters.
Hundreds of industries have spent millions of dollars
in an attempt to comply with the orders and programs of
the Mississippi Air and Water Pollution Control Commission
and the United States Environmental Protection Agency
(EPA). Where specific limitations on wastewater effluents
could not be achieved, large holding ponds, recycle systems,
spray-irrigation systems, and controlled release programs
have been required, thus keeping those effluents out of
State waters altogether. Specific reductions in pollutants
due to control measures of major discharges are shown in
the appropriate basin analysis. Because historical stream
data below many of these discharges is non-existent,
measured improvements in the stream quality is difficult.
However, the comparison between present effluent quality
and effluent quality prior to taking control measures speak
for themselves.
Recommendations
As was stated in the study, there are about 500
streams, tributaries, and ditches which do not presently
meet "fishable, swimmable" standards. Of this 500, only
about 75 of them actually have the potential for fishing or
swimming. This report recommends that a concentrated
effort, both at the State and Federal level, be made to
achieve "fishable, swimmable" standards in only those
streams which may ever be used for this purpose, and that
the other streams which are normally dry with the
exception of the small amounts of wastewater which are
discharged to them, be controlled only to the level that
they do not become a visible nuisance or health hazard.
It is believed that this goal can be realistically
achieved, with the few exceptions mentioned in this
chapter; but only with sufficient funding. It is thus
recommended that increased Federal and State money be
allocated to Mississippi toward this goal.
Effects Of Control Programs On Water Quality
• Point Source Control
The NPDES program assumed by the State in
May, 1974, now serves as the vehicle for point source
pollution control. Through this program, water qual-
ity improvement is achieved by requirement of a suf-
ficient degree of treatment to meet water quality
standards. Waste load allocations determine maxi-
mum allowable effluent concentrations such that
natural recovery of the receiving stream is initiated.
In that municipal treatment plant discharges repre-
sent the majority of the problem areas in the State,
EPA funding of both new construction and upgrading
of existing facilities through the Section 201 Facili-
ties Planning process is extremely significant to water
quality improvement goals. Continuing progress is en-
sured through planning and construction schedules,
compliance monitoring, ambient trend monitoring,
and special stream studies.
Non-point Source Control
Recent initiation of control programs and
pending action summarize progress to date regarding
non-point source control. Areas of current concern
include:
1. The Mississippi Delta region in the north-
western portion of the State where agri-
cultural runoff in the form of pesticides
and herbicides has adversely affected
many lakes and streams to fishing.
2. The Mississippi Gulf Coast and Jackson,
Mississippi urban areas where urban run-
off may be significant to the water
quality of nearby receiving streams and
bodies of water.
A program to eliminate all sump discharges
and/or discharges from storage containers of pesti-
cides or herbicides by aerial applicators in the Delta
has been formulated and has as its target implementa-
tion date the 1976 application season.
A plan of study has been adopted and work
initiated to somewhat define and quantify the urban
runoff from Jackson, Mississippi, with plans to follow
with similar work on the Gulf Coast in the Gulfport-
Biloxi area.
A-103
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APPENDIX A
Summary - State of Missouri
Complete copies of the State of
Missouri 305(b) Report can be
obtained from the State agency listed
below:
Clean Water Commission
Capital Bldg., Box 154
Jefferson City, MO 65101
A-105
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APPENDIX A
Summary
Point Source
The number of National Pollutant Discharge Elimina-
tion System (NPDES) permits issued has been increasing
each year in the past four years. Table I illustrates this fact
and shows the total number of non-municipal and munici-
pal permits issued as of the end of 1975.
TABLE 1
NPDES PERMITS ISSUED
Non-municipal Municipal
Major Minor Major Minor Total
Fiscal Yr. 1973
Fiscal Yr. 1974
July 1, 1974 - Jan. 1, 1975
Jan. 2, 1975 - Jan. 1, 1976
Total
8
26
13
3
50
1
234
365
1,022
1,622
0
32
60
0
92
0
201
248
48
497
9
493
686
1,073
2,261
Trends in NPDES permits issued indicate that most
major municipalities and industries now hold permits since
only three major industrial and no major municipal permits
were issued in calendar year 1975. It appears that small
industries and commercial establishments which discharge
less than 0.05 MGD and have no special effluent problems
will account for most of the new permits issued in the near
future as they have in 1975.
In 1975, 375 letters of approval for construction or
operation of waste control facilities for feedlots were
issued. Since the beginning of the program in 1970, 1,114
such letters have been written.
In order to achieve the 1977 goals set forth in PL
92-500, the following will be of concern.
1. Construction and upgrading of approximately
91 percent of municipal treatment plants.
2. Construction of and upgrading of an estimated
75-85 percent of non-municipal treatment
plants.
3. Construction of waste control facilities for an
unknown number of feedlots.
Non-point Source
Pollution derived from non-point sources has in the
past not been given the same importance value as has been
given to point-source pollution. The result is that few
programs for the control of non-point source pollution
presently exist. With area-wide 208 planning, it is our
intention to identify agriculturally and silviculturally re-
lated sources of pollution and to initiate processes which
will check this pollution. Definite plans should be formula-
ted by July, 1978.
Water Quality Standards Violations
There are 39 violations (Table 2) of water quality,
with respect to intended use, in six of the eight basins
delineated. Most violations (18) occurred in the lower
Missouri River where runoff, sanitary sewer overflow,
municipal, private, and industrial wastes contributed to
high fecal coliform counts. Even violations were present
in the Grand-Chariton basin where high fecal coliform and
high iron and manganese concentrations result from land
runoff. The violations (4) within the Mississippi River basin
have been attributed to high fecal coliform concentrations
at three stations and high manganese concentration at one
station which have resulted from municipal, private, and
industrial waste and land runoff. High flow and effluents
contribute to high fecal coliform concentrations at three
stations in the Osage-Gasconade basin. The Salt River basin
shows two violations of criteria because of high concentra-
tions of iron and high fecal coliform concentration with
high flow, high turbidity, runoff and municipal waste
effluents all contributing. One specific problem area exists
in the White River basin where extremely low dissolved
oxygen concentrations result from municipal waste efflu-
ent.
From Table 2 it is apparent that areas with violations
exhibit compound problems. Our most urgent problem
appears to be caused by non-point source runoff, creating
high fecal coliform concentrations. Another serious area of
concern is the degradation caused by municipal, private and
industrial point source pollution combined with non-point
source runoff. Point source pollution is presently being
dealt with through the NPDES permit program and the
State, through 208 area-wide planning, is setting up a
broad-based plan in order to approach the non-point source
pollution problem.
A-106
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APPENDIX A
TABLE 2
WATER QUALITY STANDARDS VIOLATIONS
Cause
Fecal coliform Dissolved
Fecal coliform and manganese Iron and manganese Manganese Iron oxygen Total
Municipal and industrial point
sources
Municipal, private, industrial
point sources
Non-point runoff
Municipal point source and
runoff
Municipal and private point
sources and runoff
Municipal, private, and
industrial point source
and runoff
Total
12
4
31
1
1 1
1
17
5
39
Water Uses
Water uses are ranked in Table 3 as percentages of the
total water usage.
TABLE 3
WATER USES AS PERCENTAGES OF
THE TOTAL WATER USAGE
Water use
Propagation of warmwater fisheries
Fishing
Livestock watering
Boating
Drinking water supply
Irrigation
Whole body water contact recreation
Propagation of coldwater fisheries
Percentage of
total water
usage
17.7
,17.7
15.8
12.2
12.1
11.7
11.4
1.4
Although whole body water contact recreation does
not make up a large portion of the total water usage, most
violations of water quality criteria fall under this use. The
fact that whole body water contact recreation makes up the
largest percentage of violations reflects the great number of
instances of high fecal coliform concentrations, previously
stated as the most prevalent water pollution problem. Some
violations for other water uses with large percentages of the
total water use are also related to high fecal coliform
concentration,' although specific variables are necessarily
considered for each water use with various criteria selected
accordingly.
1983 Goals - Swimmable Water
Because of natural conditions in the plains region of
Missouri, north of the Missouri River, many streams and
rivers will never be adequate for whole body water contact
recreation. Little percolation of water into hardpan clay
soils results in erosion and runoff problems. Waterways in
the plains are highly turbid and very shallow with a mud or
muck substrate. Enforcement of water quality standards
will assure that all streams and rivers within the State which
are presently suitable for swimming will continue as such
and will meet 1983 goals.
A-107
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APPENDIX A
Cost Estimates
• Point Source
The estimated cost of total needs for construc-
tion of publicly owned wastewater treatment facili-
ties in order to meet 1983 goals (in terms of 1973
dollars) is $2.3 billion. The portion of this which has
been committed through fiscal year 1976 is $419.8
million, or $104.9 million per year. In terms of the
original estimate (and inflation of 4.6 percent or less),
if this amount is spent yearly, it will take 21.9 years
to meet 1983 goals.
Non-point Source
The U.S.D.A. Soil Conservation Service (1970)
estimated cost for erosion control is $498.8 million,
of which $35.0 million has been spent in the last 5
years (through 1974). At this rate of expenditure,
based on the erosion control needs, calculations
indicate that 65-70 years will be needed to achieve
the desired results.
A-108
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APPENDIX A
Summary - State of Montana
Complete copies of the State of
Montana 305(b) Report can be
obtained from the State agency listed
below:
Water Quality Bureau
Environmental Sciences Division
Department of Health and Environ-
mental Sciences
Cogswell Building
Helena, MT 59601
A-109
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APPENDIX A
Summary
The total mileage of Montana streams is not known.
About 4,000 miles of Montana's streams do not meet the
1983 goals. We have interpreted the goals to mean waters
suitable for all beneficial uses. About 100 miles of these
streams will probably meet the 1983 goals due to improve-
ments in point discharges. This leaves about 3,800 miles of
Montana streams that will not meet the objectives of the
act. Of these 3,800 miles, about 500 miles are degraded
primarily by natural causes.
A sediment control project is being developed to deal
with the 2,500 miles of streams degraded by sediment. At
the present time it is impossible to predict the cost or
effectiveness of the program.
Prospects for controlling dewatering are very slight at
the present time so the approximately 900 miles degraded
by dewatering will not meet the goals of the Act. Saliniza-
tion also appears to be noncontrollable, so 1,400 miles of
streams will continue to be degraded by excessive salts.
Going from best available technology to best practi-
cable technology will have essentially no impact on water
quality in Montana. The cost associated with BPT in
Montana is unknown.
A-110
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APPENDIX A
Summary - State of Nebraska
Complete copies of the State of
Nebraska 305(b) Report can be
obtained from the State agency listed
below:
Water Quality Section
Water Pollution Control Division
Department of Environmental Control
P.O. Box 94653
State House Station
Lincoln, NB 68509
A-111
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APPENDIX A
Abstract
The objective of the Water Pollution Control Act
Amendments of 1972 (PL 92-500) is to restore and
maintain the chemical, physical, and biological integrity of
the Nation's waters. Major goals declared in order to
achieve this objection include: (1)the discharge of pol-
lutants into the navigable waters be eliminated by 1985;
and (2) that wherever attainable, an interim goal of water
quality which provides for the protection and propagation
of fish, shellfish, and wildlife and provides for recreation in
and on the water by July 1, 1983. Through the monitoring,
surveillance, permits and enforcement programs, and proper
planning, the work toward pollution abatement can take
place in an orderly and economically feasible manner.
Further application of PL 92-500 (continued Federal
funding for construction grants to control point sources)
should aid in reaching these objectives and in restoring,
maintaining, and enhancing quality of water in Nebraska. In
addition, a positive attitude, as well as funding, will be
needed from Federal, State, and local governments to work
towards solution of non-point source problems. Should
existing programs be slighted or cut, the water quality
could be degraded to the point of being economically or
physically irretrievable.
Table A-1 in Appendix A of the report delineates the
basins of the State which exhibit major problem areas. The
streams, or parts thereof, are cited, followed by problem(s),
possible cause, and comments for clarification.
A comparison of water quality monitoring data
before and after January 1974 was performed to determine
recent trends in water quality. Table A-2 in Appendix A
lists, by basin, the dissolved oxygen patterns. Lack of
precipitation in 1974 and 1975 hindered any valid conclu-
sions on the trends of water quality directly due to
pollution control but there is a strong indication that these
controls have brought about improvements, especially in
the Papillion Creek Watershed and in Salt Creek.
Natural conditions preclude two to three percent of
the State's waters from meeting "fishable, swimmable"
goals with approximately 70 percent now attaining the
recommended criteria. Due to the scarcity of information
and the lack of moisture in 1974 and 1975, these estimates
may not be accurate.
Assuming progress toward enhancing the waters of
the State will continue, an estimated 85 percent of
Nebraska's waters should meet the goals of PL 92-500 by
1983. Future trends in non-point source pollution control
will influence that percentage.
The point source control program is accomplishing
the task of improving and maintaining the quality of
Nebraska's waters. The attainment of secondary treatment
by 1977 for municipal dischargers remains dependent of
financial and technical resources. Achievement of second-
ary treatment needs the flexibility to be delayed on a
case-by-case basis. Most industrial dischargers are expected
to attain best practicable technology by 1977 and best
available technology by 1983.
Agricultural runoff constitutes the primary source of
non-point source pollution. Erosion and deposition of
sediment are major; land and water resource problems in the
State. Voluntary erosion control programs have not been
totally successful. Therefore, it is apparent that some sort
of a combination of voluntary/mandatory system may need
to be developed. An accelerated conservation treatment
program for the Platte River Basin only has been suggested
with total costs expected to be about $119 million over a
fifty-year period (Platte River Basin-Nebraska Level B
Study, "Water Quality" Technical Paper.)
Meeting the water-quality goals of PL 92-500 has
required vast expenditures by all levels of government and
by private industries. Total costs for municipal wastewater
facilities in Nebraska, based upon the most recent needs
survey, are estimated to exceed $985 million while total
cost for industries top $250 million. Until more non-point
pollution sources have been identified, total costs cannot be
estimated for controlling that source. It is difficult and, at
times, almost impossible to put a dollar value on the benefit
of clean water in the State of Nebraska.
A-112
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APPENDIX A
Summary - State of Nevada
Complete copies of the State of
Nevada 305(b) Report can be
obtained from the State agency listed
below:
Environmental Protection Section
Department of Human Resources
1209 Johnson St.
Carson City, NV 89701
A-113
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APPENDIX A
Summary
The attainment of Nevada's water quality standards,
which already embody the national 1983 water-use goals
(i.e., fishable and swimmable waters), must be based upon
additional controls of pollutants from point sources with
diffuse origins and non-point sources. The foundation of
Nevada's program for the control of such sources is the
planning and implementation activities mandated by Section
208 of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act, as
amended.
As a basic technical approach to the control of
non-point and analagous point sources, the State will
promote the selection and implementation of best manage-
ment practices, as opposed to capital-intensive treatment
structures. A tandem effort is the evaluation and develop-
ment of institutional systems to administer the technical
control measures. This latter effort is well underway as it
applies to most kinds of non-point and analagous point
sources. It now stands the test of implementation.
The need for additional control of pollutants from
non-point and analagous point sources stems from an
analysis of the extent to which water quality of Nevada's
six major hydrologic areas conforms presently with the
national 1983 water-use goals. The goals in five of the areas
are found to be either impaired or are close to being
impaired. In this regard, phosphates, total dissolved solids,
temperature, turbidity, and siltation are the water pollution
constituents of principle concern. The major kinds of
causes include low flows, irrigation, treated sewage dis-
charges, urban runoff, stream bank vegetation removal,
watershed erosion, and channelization.
Standing in contrast to the preponderance of
Nevada's water quality problems, the Federal water pollu-
tion control program presently emphasizes the control of
municipal and industrial point sources. In this context,
Nevada stands well. For example, all but two industrial
discharges have ceased; the remaining two will apply the
best practicable control technology currently available, in
accordance with Federal requirements. As for municipal
discharges, half will soon achieve effluent limitations based
on secondary treatment, as defined by the United States
Environmental Protection Agency. More important, the
wastes of 92 percent of Nevada's sewered population are
presently treated in accordance with Federal requirements.
Also, Federal legislation sets forth, as a goal, that the
discharge of pollutants be eliminated by 1985, although the
legislation contains no requirements for attaining the goal.
It is a goal that is not embraced by the State of Nevada.
The removal of all pollutants from discharges would be
prohibitively expensive, and, in most cases, would result in
less flowing water. This in turn would worsen many existing
water quality problems and impede attainment of the 1983
goals.
The 1985 goal does not recognize, and the Federal
emphasis on municipal and industrial effluent limitations
does not adequately account for, non-point sources, and
analagous point sources, low flows, and many of the other
water pollution factors predominant in Nevada.
A-114
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APPENDIX A
Summary - State of New Hampshire
Complete copies of the State of New
Hampshire 305(b) Report can be
obtained from the State agency listed
below:
Water Supply and Pollution Control
Commission
105 Loudon Road
Prescott Park
Concord, NH 03301
A-115
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APPENDIX A
Introduction and Summary
Water Quality Problems
The State of New Hampshire is divided into five
major basins for the purpose of water quality management
planning. These basins are the New Hampshire portions of
the:
Androscoggin River Basin
Merrimack River Basin
Connecticut River Basin
Piscataqua River and Coastal New Hampshire Basins
Saco River Basin
Major water quality problems by basin are as follows.
• Androscoggin River Basin
The Androscoggin River below Berlin is one of
the most polluted streams in the State of New Hamp-
shire, due primarily to industrial waste discharged by
the Brown Paper Company in Berlin. This is further
aggravated by the discharge of untreated domestic
sewage from the City of Berlin (1970 population
16,12) and the Town of Gorham (1970 population
3,364).
During 1979, all wastewater from the Brown
Company and the domestic wastes from Berlin and
Gorham will be treated with the equivalent of secon-
dary treatment.* The Androscoggin River is then an-
ticipated to be upgraded in quality to at least the
level required by the legal classification fixed by the
New Hampshire Legislature, namely "C" from Berlin
to the Maine-New Hampshire State line.
All municipalities above Berlin, including Errol
and Milan and other small settlements along the river,
are served by sub-surface systems. Point sources of
pollution from individual systems have been deter-
mined but no serious pollution problems exist in the
upper part of the New Hampshire portion of the An-
droscoggin River Basin.
While the population affected by the water
quality problems of the. basin is relatively small, the
magnitude of the problems is significant.
• Merrimack River Basin
Untreated wastes from municipal and industrial
sources make up the bulk of the water quality prob-
lems of the Merrimack River Basin, below Franklin.
Above Franklin, the water quality of the Pemige-
wasset River has improved markedly from a nuisance
condition to Class "B" over the last six years with the
construction and operation of municipal treatment
plants in Lincoln, North Woodstock, Plymouth, Ash-
*This treatment also corresponds to best practicable technology (BPT).
land, New Hampton and Bristol and the industrial
treatment plant for the Franconia Paper Corporation
at Lincoln, coupled with the subsequent closing of
the Franconia Paper Corporation, Lincoln, in April
1972, and the Ashland Paper Company, Ashland, in
August 1969. The New England Pulp and Paper Com-
pany at Lincoln purchased the former Franconia Pa-
per Corporation plant from a subsequent owner, the
Profile Paper Company, in 1975, and is presently re-
cycling its wastewater, thus avoiding any river pollu-
tion.
The following are specific problem areas in the
Merrimack River Basin.
a. Domestic Sewage Discharges
Tilton-Northfield (part of the Winne^
pesaukee Basin Project); Franklin (part of
the Winnepesaukee Basin Project); Con-
cord (treatment plant in Penacook recent-
ly completed, but Concord still discharges
untreated domestic waste directly into
the Merrimack River); Allenstown-
Pembroke (combined sewerage system
and plant is currently under construc-
tion); Manchester (to include parts of
Londonderry, Auburn, Bedford and
Goffstown; joint plant is under construc-
tion); Nashua-Hudson (joint plant is
planned); and Pittsfield (facilities design
being prepared).
b. Industrial Discharges
USM Corporation-Boxboard Division,
West Hopkinton (construction of treat-
ment plant nearing completion); Granite
State Packing Company, Manchester; Seal
Tanning Division of Ohio Leather Com-
pany, Manchester; Waumbec Dyeing and
Fishing Company, Manchester; Hamp-
shire Chemical Company, Nashua; Mo-
hawk Associate (tannery), Nashua; and
several smaller industries in Manchester,
Henniker, and Pittsfield.
All the above domestic and industrial waste dis-
charges will be abated by updating existing treatment
plants, or the construction of new treatment plants as
appropriate, and the receiving waters will be upgraded
to their legal classification.
There are domestic wastes problems in the
southeastern portion of the basin due to large popu-
lation growth and limited surface waters into which
treated waste can be discharged.
This has been designated a Section 208 area-
wide waste treatment management planning area.
To prevent any possible future degradation of
Lake Winnipesaukee, the entire drainage area of the
A-116
-------
APPENDIX A
Winnipesaukee River above its mouth in Franklin has
also been designated a Section 208 areawide waste
treatment management planning area.
• Connecticut River Basin
The major sources of pollution are attributable
to the following communities and industries.
a. Domestic Sewage Discharges
Lebanon (treatment plant now under
constructions); Claremont (outdated
plant needs to be replaced); Keene (out-
dated plant needs to be replaced); and
Hinsdale (no plant at present).
b. Industrial Discharges
Groveton Paper Company, Groveton;
Claremont Paper Mills (Bemis Company),
Claremont; Dartmouth Woolen Mills,
Inc., Claremont; Troy Mills, Inc., Troy;
Homestead Woolen Mills, Inc., West
Swanzey; A.C. Lawrence Leather Com-
pany, Winchester; Paper Service Mills,
Inc., Winchester; Ashuelot Paper Com-
pany, Winchester; Hinsdale Products
Company, Hinsdale; and G.E. Robinson
and Company, Hinsdale.
In addition to the above major wastewater
problems, there are lesser problems caused by un-
treated domestic wastes from the towns of Bethle-
hem, Lisbon, Woodsville, north portion of Charles-
town, North Walpole, Walpole and Winchester.
All of the above discharges will be abated by
updating existing treatment plants or the construc-
tion of modern treatment plants.
• Piscataqua River and New Hampshire Coastal
Basins
Although several municipalities presently have
treatment facilities in operation, upgradings or expan-
sions are necessary in several of the larger communi-
ties. The following are critical areas.
a. Domestic Sewage Discharges
Milton (on Salmon Falls River); Roches-
ter, East Rochester, Gonic (on Cocheco
River); Dover (on Cocheco River); Ports-
mouth (plant expansion and upgrading
necessary); and New Castle (connect to
Portsmouth).
b. Industrial Discharges
Milton Leather Company, Milton;
Spaulding Fibre Company, Milton and
North Rochester; and General Electric
Company, Somersworth.
Other point sources on basin tributaries are
causing a lesser degree of pollution. Local problems
exist in the towns of Raymond, Newfields, Newing-
ton and Greenland which have experienced instances
of sub-surface systems failures. Many other smaller
groupings of recreational areas of Rye and around
Dover and Portsmouth may possibly be contributing
to occasional high counts found by the Commission's
staff which operates an effective estuarine monitoring
program.
There are also domestic wastewater problems
developing in the southern tier of towns of the basin
due to rapid population growth and limited surface
waters into which treated waste can be discharged.
• Saco River Basin
The problems pf the New Hampshire portion of
the basin are in North Conway, a small area in Con-
way, and the Center Ossipee section of the Ossipee
River (a tributary). The problems in North Conway
are associated with failing subsurface systems in the
Pequawket Pond-Page Randall Brook area which will
be alleviated by completing the planned sewerage
system and discharging the collected wastes to the
Conway Municipal Treatment Plant. The solution of
the Center Ossipee problem will require upgrading an
old treatment facility as well as extension of the col-
lection system to enable a few areas to be treated that
are currently being served by failing sub-surface sys-
tems.
The only industry in the New Hampshire por-
tion of the Saco River Basin which presents a water
quality problem is Kearsarge Metallurgical Corpora-
tion, located on Pequawket Pond in Conway. The
wastes from this industry will be discharged to the
Conway Municipal Treatment Plant within 30 days of
completion of the collecting sewer serving the area in
the vicinity of the plant.
A-117
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APPENDIX A
Present and Future Water Quality
As a result of the above listed water quality problems,
the present quality of many of the larger surface waters are
below desired levels. Figure 1 and Table 1 delineates the
approximate present or existing quality of the rivers of New
Hampshire. Figure 2 indicates the legal classification of
surface waters and represents the desired water quality of
the rivers in New Hampshire. The uses assigned to each class
are outlined in Table 2. Note that over 99 percent of the
rivers of New Hampshire are required by State statutes to
meet the goals of "f ishable", "swimmable" waters intended
in the Water Pollution Control Act. Several segments on
principal rivers are presently degraded to D or lower. The
causes of such extreme degradation are known and the
necessary abatement measures are given high priority so
that the goals of the Act will be attained within a year or
two of the schedule set up by the Act. Where classified as
B, the segment presently of C quality will also be upgraded
to B quality (or B* Quality - see Table 3) by the control of
known point and non-point sourcesof pollution.
Abatement Measures
All known significant point sources of pollution have
been issued National Pollutant Discharge Elimination Sys-
tem (NPDES) permits. These permits indicate the necessary
abatement measures to be taken to meet the required water
quality goals of both the State and Federal governments.
Continued emphasis is on construction of municipal and
industrial water pollution control facilities. Major emphasis
is also placed on the sub-division and sub-surface systems
programs. This program involves review and approval of
systems to protect the surface waters and groundwater of
the State.
Lakes
marshy shores and boggy bottoms. At present there are 23
lakes of twenty acres or more that are classified as
eutrophic. In the future there is to be no discharge of any
point nutrient sources into the lakes of New Hampshire.
Where possible, non-point sources will also be controlled by
appropriate preventive measures.
Non-point Sources of Pollution
Non-point sources of pollution include a generalized
type of pollution such as that caused by agriculture
activities (including pesticides and fertilizers), timber cut-
ting activities, construction undertakings, uncollected run-
off from built-up areas, and the like. A non-point source
strategy addresses the means of controlling such activities
so that they will not degrade the surface waters and ground-
water of the State. At present, the more obscure types of
non-point sources are masked by much of the point pollu-
tion sources.
Cost of Achieving Future Goals
The approximate costs for municipal treatment facili-
ties required to achieve the future intended uses of the
streams of New Hampshire were submitted as the "1974
Needs Survey" The adjusted figures from this submission
for the New Hampshire portions of the listed river basins
are:
Androscoggin River Basin
Merrimack River Basin
Connecticut River Basin
Piscataqua River and
Coastal N.H. Basins
Saco River Basin
Total for the State
$ 31,554,000
545,744,000
103,456,000
11 7,805,000
21,038,000
$ 819,517,000
Most lakes of New Hampshire are B quality or better
and are "fishable-swimmable" except for those lakes with
A-118
-------
APPENDIX A
FIGURE 1
EXISTING WATER QUALITY
> C 4 I t
01 «
£XGTNG WE? QUALITY L£6£ND
A • A OUAUTV
• * A Ofl B QUALITY
J* - MOCTCO a OU*UTYM
C- C QLUUTV
-------
APPENDIX A
TABLE 1
STATE OF NEW HAMPSHIRE 305(b) WATER QUALITY INVENTORY SUMMARY OF SELECTED STREAMS
River basin or
coastal drainage
(including main-
stem and major
tributaries)
Androscoggin
Merrimack
Connecticut
Piscataqua and
Coastal
Saco
Total (mileage)
Total (%)**
Total
miles of
selected
streams
98
448
457
183
94
1 ,280*
1 00%
Miles now
meeting
Class B
(fishable/
swimmable)
75
287
150
85
94
691
54.1%
Miles
expected to
meet Class
B by 1983
82
419
444
183
94
1,222
95.5%
Miles now
meeting
State WQ
standards
75
297
150
85
94
701
54.8%
Miles not
meeting
State WQ
standards
23
151
307
98
0
579
45.2%
Water
quality
problems
Note 1, plus
foam, float-
ing solids
Note 1
Note 1
Note 1
-
Point source
causes of WQ
problems
M=Municipal
l=lndustrial
D=lndividual
domestic
M, 1 (paper
mill)
M, 1, D
M, 1. D.
M, 1. D
-
Non-point
source
causes of WQ
problems
1=major
2=minor
2
2
2
2
2
NOTE !:
Low DO, high bacteria, high turbidity, suspended solids.
"Represents 8.8% of the 14,544 miles of identified streams in New Hampshire.
**% of total miles of selected streams.
A-120
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APPENDIX A
FIGURE 2
CLASSIFICATIONS OF
SURFACE WATERS
NEW HAMPSHRE WATER SUPPLY
POLLUTION CONTROL COMMISSION
CLIU »
CLAU •
CLUS C
SB? ~
A-121
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APPENDIX A
TABLE 2
RECOMMENDED USE CLASSIFICATIONS1 AND WATER QUALITY STANDARDS AS OF JANUARY 1, 1970
(Based on Chapter 149 revised statutes annotated New Hampshire
Water Supply and Pollution Control Commission)
Parameter
Dissolved oxygen
Coliform bacteria
per 100 ml
PH
Substances
potentially toxic
Sludge deposits
Oil and grease
Color
Turbidity
Slick, odors and
surface-floating
solids
Temperature
Class A Class B
Potentially acceptable Acceptable for bathing and
for public water supply recreation, fish habitat
after disinfection. No and public water supply
discharge of sewage or after adequate treatment.
other wastes. (Quality No disposal of sewage or
uniformly excellent). wastes unless adequately
treated. (High aesthetic
value).
Not less than 75% sat. Not less than 75% sat
Not more than 50 Not more than 240 in fresh
water. Not more than 70 MPN
in salt or brackish water
Natural 6.5 - 8.0
None Not in toxic concentrations
or combinations
None Not objectionable kinds or
amounts
None None
Not to exceed 15 units Not in objectionable
amounts
Not to exceed 5 units Not to exceed 10 units
in trout water. Not to
exceed 25 units in non-
trout water
None None
No artificial rise NHF&GD, NEIWPCC, or
NTAC-DI -whichever
provides most effective
control
Class C
Acceptable for recreational
boating, fishing, and
industrial water supply
with or without treatment,
depending on individual
requirements. (Third
highest quality).
Not less than 5 PPM 4
Not specified
6.0 - 8.5
Not in toxic concentrations
or combinations
Not objectionable kinds or
amounts
Not objectionable kinds
or amounts
Not in objectionable
amounts
Not to exceed 10 units
in trout water. Not to
exceed 25 units in non-
trout water
Not in objectionable
kinds or amounts
NHF&GD, NEIWPCC or
NTAC-DI - whichever
provides most effective
control
Class D
Aesthetically
acceptable. Suitable
for certain industrial
purposes, power and
navigation.
Not less than 2 PPM
Not specified
Not specified
Not in toxic
concentrations or
combinations
Not objectionable
kinds or amounts.
Not of unreasonable
kind, quantity or
duration
Not of unreasonable
kind, quantity or
duration
Not of unreasonable
kind, quantity or
duration
Not of unreasonable
kind, quantity or
duration
Shall not exceed
90°F
NOTE
The waters in each classification shall satisfy all provisions of all lower classifications.
2 For complete details see Chapter 149 RSA.
3NHF&GD — New Hampshire Fish and Game Department
NEIWPCC - New England Interstate Water Pollution Control Commission
NTAC-DI - National Technical Advisory Committee, Department of the Interior.
A-122
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APPENDIX A
TABLE 3
KEY TO SIGNIFICANCE OF LETTER DESIGNATIONS SHOWN IN FIGURE 1
A B B* C C*
D or Worse
Total coliform bacteria
count per 100 ml
(1) Not known man-
produced pollution**
(2) Known man-produced pollution
Fecal coliform bacteria
count per 100 ml
(1) No known man-
<50
(N.A.)
<240@
<240@
<1,000
(N.A.)
(N.A.)
<1,000
No limit
(N.A.)
'Modified class that meets all criteria except coliform bacteria.
"May include effluent from a wastewater treatment facility supplying the equivalent of secondary treatment.
NOTE: (N.A.) Criteria do not apply; @for fresh water; (9>See Par. 5.1B., Page 5-1 of text.
#Class D is aesthetically acceptable, worse then Class D if obnoxious with foam, floating
solids, oil slicks, odors and the like. It is assumed that with high man-produced pollution
and/or aesthetically degraded appearance, fishing is not a desirable activity. Also not
"fishable" for many species of fish if dissolved oxygen levels are less than 5 mg/1 or
6 mg/1 for prolonged periods.
(N.A.)
No limit
produced pollution**
(2) Known man-produced pollution
Dissolved oxygen
"Swimmable" @@ (safe for bathing)
"Fishable" @@ (suitable for
fishing)
Aesthetically acceptable
(no odors, etc.)
<2
(N.A.)
>75%
sat.
Yes
Yes
Yes
(N.A.)
(N.A.)
>75%
sat.
Yes
Yes
Yes
<200
(N.A.)
>75
sat.
Yes
Yes
Yes
(N.A.)
(N.A.)
>5
mg/l
No
Yes
Yes
No limit
(N.A.)
>5
mg/l
No
Yes
Yes
(N.A.)
No limit
(N.A.)
No
#
#
A-123
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APPENDIX A
Summary - State of New Mexico
Complete copies of the State of New
Mexico 305(b) Report can be
obtained from the State agency listed
below:
Water Quality Section
Environmental Improvement Agency
P.O. Box 2348
Santa Fe, NM 87501
A-125
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APPENDIX A
The following 1976 Update of the report titled Water
Quality in New Mexico, dated May 1975, was adopted by
the New Mexico Water Quality Control Commission at its
June 14, 1975 meeting for submission to the Congress of
the United States pursuant to Section 305(b) of the Federal
Water Pollution Control Act.
Water Quality in
New Mexico - 1976 Update
The basic conclusions and discussion of overall water
quality in New Mexico, published in May 1975, remain
valid. No dramatic changes have occured in the past year
because of the long-term nature of water quality manage-
ment problems and programs. Management programs have
been refined and point source control efforts have resulted
in water quality improvement in several specific areas. A
statewide non-point source planning effort has been
initiated. As part of New Mexico's continuing water quality
management program, broad goals and specific five-year
objectives have been defined.
Goals and Objectives, 1976 - 1981
Water quality management goals in New Mexico are:
1. To maintain or improve the quality of existing
surface waters, such as mountain streams and
storage reservoirs, which are still capable of
supporting natural life systems, and to protect
water for recreational uses, where the water can
physically be used for these purposes.
2. To maintain or improve, where necessary, the
quality of other surface waters for designated
uses and to protect the quality of all ground
water which has a natural concentration of
10,000 mg/l or less TDS for present and
potential future use as domestic and agricul-
tural water supply. (Policies affecting ground
water will be re-drafted, as appropriate, if the
New Mexico Water Quality Control Commission
adopts language other than this proposed lan-
guage in ground water effluent regulations).
In striving to meet these goals, the State has taken
into account the nature and history of New Mexico's
stream systems. Withdrawals and subsequent depletions
from these streams often result in higher concentrations of
contaminants in the remaining water supply as the con-
sumptive use of water leaves progressively less water to
carry the same load. This is especially true if the consti-
tuents in the water diverted for use are returned to the
source. In general, it is the policy of the Water Quality
Control Commission to consider as acceptable degradation
those increase concentrations which result from the return
of the weight of the constituents diverted.
In view of these State goals and policies and the goals
of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act, the following
strategic objectives have been established to guide water
quality management efforts in New Mexico for the next
five years:
1. To supplement the water quality management
decision-making process that involves broad
based public participation and officials of State
and local units of government who conduct
activities related to water quality management.
2. To pursue effective remedial actions and/or
enforcement procedures as a result of violations
of existing regulations or stream standards,
violations of permit conditions, and nuisance
conditions.
3. To develop procedures which will protect the
quality of New Mexico's ground water re-
sources and to establish a ground water quality
program to demonstrate that major ground
water resources are being maintained suitable
for use.
4. To review and revise stream standards as ap-
propriate, with special emphasis on protecting
high-quality mountain streams and the State's
storage reservoirs.
5. To develop the relationships between nutrient
loads and the trophic conditions of major New
Mexico reservoirs.
6. To implement the established prohibition
against toxic substances being present in receiv-
ing waters in concentrations which, directly or
through uptake in the aquatic food chain
and/or storage in animal tissues, can be
magnified to levels which are toxic to man or
other organisms.
7. To obtain authority for the State to operate the
National Pollutant Discharge Elimination Sys-
tem permit program by July, 1977.
8. Within the limits of available resources, to
inventory and analyse the effects of various
nonpoint sources on water quality and to
develop a plan of implementation in coordina-
tion with all levels of government.
Progress Achieved,
May, 1975-May, 1976
Water Quality
• Stream Quality
The bacteriological quality of the San Juan
River has improved significantly as a result of
effective disinfection of Farmington's municipal
wastewater. Despite minor increases in fecal coliform
levels in the San Juan River below Farmington as a
result of seasonal and non-point source influences,
the bacteriological quality of this segment remained
A-126
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APPENDIX A
well within the level established by the stream stand-
ard throughout the past year. The highest fecal coli-
form counts were recorded at Fruitland, but the log
means of 31 samples taken between January, 1975
and January, 1976 is only 245 colonies per 100 ml.
Monitoring stations above Kirtland and at Shiprock
recorded similarly low levels.
On the Rio Grande, monthly samples of fecalcoli-
form levels are alightly less than 1974 levels at the
Otowi Bridge sampling station. However, the groups
of sampling stations at Isleta and San Marcial show
mixed results at both locations. The City of Socorro
is now chlorinating its wastewater effluent. The infre-
quent sampling of bacterological quality of the Rio
Grande is not adequate to document actual trends in
the river.
Reservoir Quality
Continued reservoir quality surveys, in which
algal assay and other nutrient analysis methods are
utilized, are documenting that different water quality
management programs are required for the various
major New Mexico reservoirs. Initial findings indicate
that nuisance algal blooms in some reservoirs can
possibly be controlled by limiting phosphorus reach-
ing the reservoir from major point sources. Data
collected at Cochiti Reservoir, which reached
permanent pool status in late 1975, indicate that this
reservoir is phosphorus limited. In Elephant Butte
Reservoir, however, data suggest that algal growth is
nitrogen limited and that phosphorus removal from
the major point source above Elephant Butte
Reservoir (i.e., the Albuquerque wastewater treat-
ment plant— would not be cost-effective. In other
New Mexico reservoirs and lakes the effectiveness of
limiting phosphorus or nitrogen loadings is still being
evaluated.
Standards and Regulations Development
• Stream Standards
In cooperation with the U.S. Forest Service, the
Environmental Improvement Agency has gathered
water quality data for numerous high mountain
streams throughout the State. The existing New
Mexico Water Quality Standards will be subject to
public review in October and November of 1976 and
the Environmental Improvement Agency will propose
that additional standards be adopted for many
mountain streams. Basically, numerical stream
standards for total residual chlorine, ammonia and
nitrate nitrogen will be proposed. Such standards will
adequately protect existing water quality in high
mountain streams.
Ground Water Effluent Regulations
Regulations governing discharges to ground
water have been drafted and the New Mexico Water
Quality Control Commission will hold a public
hearing regarding these proposed regulations in June,
1976. The regulations set ground water standards,
with the basic intent of protecting ground water for
domestic and agricultural use by controlling discharge
of specific contaminants to the subsurface. Typical
sources to be controlled under these regulations are
animal confinement or domestic wastewater disposal
lagoons, injection wells, tailings ponds and land
application of wastewaters. Included in the regulation
requirements, as appropriate, are the submission and
approval of discharge plans, bonding of dischargers,
lining of lagoons and monitoring of ground water
quality. Adoption of these, or similar, ground water
effluent regulations would provide a necessary and
basic management tool to control present and
potential ground water contamination.
Compliance Monitoring and Special Studies
• Compliance Monitoring
The Environmental Improvement Agency has
developed the capability to conduct compliance
monitoring inspections at NPDES permitted facilities.
Compliance monitoring inspections are required to
document the municipal and five industrial permitted
facilities. Non-compliance with existing effluent
limitations has been documented at seven facilities.
The issuance of administrative orders requiring cor-
rective action by the permit holder is the responsi-
bility of the United States Environmental Protection
Agency (EPA).
• Grants Mineral Belt Study
The Environmental Improvement Agency and
the EPA completed a regional ground and surface
water sampling survey in the Grants Mineral Belt. The
survey was designed to assess the impacts of waste
discharges from uranium mining and milling activities
on surface and ground water quality in the Grants
Mineral Belt. Samples were collected during February,
1975, and a selective resampling was conducted in
August, 1975. Significant ground water contamination
was not observed, with the exception of an area south
and southwest of the United Nuclear-Homestake
Partners mill. Surface flow into two streams was
composed entirely of discharges containing water
contaminants from four mines and two ion-exchange
plants. One company is now operating barium
chloride treatment plants for radium removal at the
A-127
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APPENDIX A
Ambrosia Lake area and is constructing other treat-
ment facilities. The survey results are being used at
State and Federal levels to provide the basis for an
examination of: Regulations affecting the uranium
mining and milling industry; inadequacies in ground
water sampling networks; and milling processes which
contribute to potential water contamination prob-
lems.
Non-point Source Planning
A statewide non-point source planning effort
has been initiated, institutional arrangements have
been defined and a two-year planning program will
commence July 1, 1976. The level of detail and
timing of water quality plan preparation pursuant to
Section 208 of the Federal Water Pollution Control
Act depends upon the water quality problems of the
area and the water quality decisions made. Specific
planning areas include the Albuquerque metropolitan
area and Navajo Reservation lands. Planning will be
concentrated on major water quality objectives (see
above).
Middle Rio Grande Nutrient Analysis
A two-year survey of the Middle Rio Grande
between Albuquerque and San Marcial has
demonstrated that inorganic nitrogen and
orthophosphate are elevated significantly below
Albuquerque by the city's wastewater discharge.
However, through transformations and losses in the
130-mile reach, the inorganic nitrogen is reduced to
low concentrations at the downstream monitoring
station at San Marcial. Because of the critical nature
of nitrogen loading on Elephant Butte Reservoir (see
"Reservoir Quality"), nutrient loadings to the
reservoir will receive additional field and laboratory
study. A preliminary nitrogen mass balance has been
developed. Initial findings suggest that crop exports
are not major nitrogen sinks and that non-point
sources are not the major contributors to nitrogen
loads, although the impact of urban runoff is not
known at this time.
A-128
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APPENDIX A
Summary - State of New York
Complete copies of the State of New
York 305(b) Report can be obtained
from the State agency listed below:
Division of Pure Waters
New York State Department of
Environmental Conservation
Albany, NY 12301
A-129
-------
APPENDIX A
Annual Statewide
Assessment - 1976
Major Accomplishments Since the 1975 Report
The identified surface waste source discharge inven-
tory has increased from 2,202 reported last year to the
current level of 3,077 this year. Similarly, the major
dischargers category has increased from a previous level of
457 to the current level of 833. Permits issued to the major
dischargers have increased from 57 percent last year to 86
percent this year. 90 percent of these major dischargers are
expected to comply with the 1977 goals of the Act as
indicated by the compliance timetables in the issued
permits.
As of March 31, 1976, construction grants funds for
municipal treatment works totaling $119 million had been
approved. By June 30, 1976, this figure is expected to
increase to $495 million. Last year, 85 percent of the
"approved" category of New York State's total municipal
construction grants program were for projects in the five
priority basins: Atlantic Ocean. Long Island Sound; Lower
Hudson River; Lake Erie/Niagara River; Seneca-Oneida-
Oswego River and Mohawk River. This year the relative
proportion will "drop" to 83 percent even though $240
million worth of new projects will be approved. This
reflects the increased emphasis given to solving water
quality problems in the other lower priority basins. Results
of these expenditures will not be reflected in water quality
improvements for some years hence, depending on the
length of the construction schedule.
Data processing capabilities have been expanded over
the past year and the pollutant discharge elimination
system permit master file has become operational for
tracking progress of dischargers in meeting requirements for
effluent standards and compliance dates. The-self monitor-
ing aspects of this system are similarly nearing operational
status and will provide for automated mailing and updating
of the discharge monitoring reports (DMRs) directly into
the computerized system. Retrieval capabilities have
already been exercised for tracking DMR submittals and in
dealing with toxic substance dischargers which will be
further used in selecting candidates for compliance
monitoring sampling. Table 1 shows the status of selected
New York State water pollution control program elements.
Changes in Water Quality Since the 1975 Report
There has been no substantive change in quality of
the State's water bodies during the past year. Although
there are isolated instances where a few new plants have
become operational, the major problem areas previously
identified are still awaiting completion of complex treat-
ment systems (i.e., New York City, Niagara Frontier, and
Central New York) before water quality responses can be
expected. On a similar note, basin water quality assessments
do continue to identify water quality problems directly
associated with contamination by discharges from
combined sewers and urban runoff. This category of
pollution is the single most important obstacle to achieving
water quality objectives. Ironically, the United States
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is continually
attempting to restrict project eligibility for correction of
combined sewer discharges under PL 92-500. Consequently,
multitudinous problems and delays are created in attempt-
ing to pursue a rational State program for water pollution
control at the six major urban/industrial areas where
combined sewer discharges are manifested. As a result, as
indicated in various of the basin water quality assessments,
bathing beaches and shellfishing waters periodically
affected by discharges from combined sewers will continue
to experience frustrating periods of closure.
Figure 1 shows trends in water quality of the various
major New York State rivers. These trends utilize the water
quality index (WQI) as developed by the National Sanita-
tion Foundation at Ann Arbor, Michigan. Ten years of
monitoring records are represented from which nine key
parameters indicative of the conventional pollution cate-
gories are extracted for WQI computations.
The eight major rivers shown are only a few examples
of the trend data available. In the Niagara River, the quality
of Lake Erie outflow measurably increases at the Lake
Ontario inflow, in spite of the significant "discharges along
the Niagara Frontier, a tribute to the tremendous self-
purifying capability of Niagara Falls and the pollution
abatement effort. Hudson River water quality reflects the
abuses of pollutant discharges which lower its "good to
excellent" rating above Corinth, to a rating of "bad to
medium" below the Capital District, some 80 miles
downriver. The Oswego River at Oswego, New York,
reflects the combination of effects of canalization, hydro-
electric regulation and drainage from the highly developed
central New York area with a steady "medium" rating.
On the Mohawk River, the monitoring station below
Fonda, New York, dramatically illustrates the beneficial
impacts of the tertiary treatment plant serving the
Johnstown-Gloversville area andthe Oneida County Sewer
District secondary plant completed in early 1970's.
Similarly, completion of secondary treatment facilities in
the Binghamton and Elmira areas are reflected in improved
Susquehanna and Chemung River quality respectively.
Abatement efforts by Eastman Kodak on the lower
Genesee River have had limited effect on water quality
improvement pending correction of the City of Rochester's
combined sewer overflow problem.
Synopsis of the State Biological Monitoring Pro-
gram
In 1972, a biological monitoring component to the
State's Primary Water Quality Monitoring Network was
A-130
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TABLE 1
SUMMARY OF SELECTED NEW YORK STATE WATER POLLUTION CONTROL PROGRAM ELEMENTS
CO
Basin
L. Erie-Niagara River
Allegheny River
L. Ontario Minor Trib.
Genesee River
Chemung River
Susquehanna River
Seneca-Oneida-Oswego
Black River
St. Lawrence River
Lake Champlain
Upper Hudson River
Mohawk River
Lower Hudson River
Delaware River
Newark River
Housatonic River
Atlantic-Long Island Sound
Total
Area Avg. annual
(sq. mi.) flow-(cfs)
2,300
1,921
2,457
2,373
1,740
4,517
5,067
1,916
5,539
2,900
4,070
3,456
5,276
2,362
265
168
1,406
47,733
2,563
3,242
4,344
2,664
1,760
7,050
6,363
3,900
8,808
3,686
6,557
5,707
7,994
4,497
440
262
1,000
70,837
Total
discharges
258
95
184
111
72
117
277
52
112
52
81
170
633
286
40
14
523
3,077
Principle discharges
Construction grants status
($x106 ) WQ surveillance status
% Meeting FY 76-project
Total Permitted MGD 1977 goals Approved priority list '74 Needs*
102
35
82
30
20
40
98
16
26
17
28
42
108
18
4
2
165
833
90
31
67
25
15
38
87
15
25
12
24
36
101
12
2
0
137
717
728
43.8
219
74
46
84
270
50.8
70
69.8
89.3
166.3
595
23.5
4.1
3.2
1,839
13,648.1
71
87
84
88
93
87
83
93
100
92
92
94
93
100
100
N/A
97
90
559
42
409
100
20
67
282
20
26
35
55
131
1,313
7
•; 9
-
-1.654
4,729
128
10
287
14
18
18
107
2
14
5
69
34
177
29
-
-
642
1,554
900
62
437
162
192
264
520
43
95
110
89
454
1,949
104
124
10
10,547
16,063
Physical/
chemical
15
6
3
10
6
8
12
2
5
4
11
16
14
5
0
0
5
122
Biological
(26)"
9
12
8
10
10
32
(20)
((20))"
((10),"
12
40
20
16
0
0
0
251
APPENDIX A
"Costs in June 1973 dollars, exclusive of Category VI — Treatment and/or Control of Stormwaters.
**Figuresin( ) to be established during FY 76-77, figures in (( )) to be established during FY 77-78.
"*Asof March 31,1976. List will be updated in final submittal.
-------
APPENDIX A
FIGURE 1
WATER QUALITY INDEX TRENDS
to
Nltjtrt KMr * U«*» Ontario l«»l»
i I i i I I
W«v kiile* Cwltcl Mtlrlct
i i i i i i ? i
Moli«»li Ml««r »1 Fend*
I i i i i I i 5 i I
fp.
Mlvtr bttov EotlfiMfi-Ko
\ /
so^-s-1-
Hu4wn Nl*«r at W««rford
i i i i i
I I I i i I t S S I
vv
I I i I i I i flT
Ri»«f at Sr»rtl»»oe
^/W^A^" ^
III I i g's'
Hvdwn Rl«ir ol Corinth
i I i i ? I i £ 1 f
Rlv«r o
i 1 I I I i i i S
A-132
-------
APPENDIX A
inaugurated. The approach utilized artificial substrates for
obtaining quantitative samples of macroinvertebrates
indigenous to the subject waterbodies. Seasonal harvesting
of the samplers followed by picking, sorting and taxonomic
identifications have been successful in analyzing biological
community structures, species diversity and similarity
coefficients and equitability. This information provides the
capability to assess the biological health of the State's
major river systems and a valuable insight to the adequacy
of existing water quality standards and related pollution
abatement efforts in protecting aquatic resources. Based on
this information, together with conventional physical/
chemical data, standards revision, where necessary, can be
made on a rational basis tailored to the waterbody under
consideration.
The program was set up to cover the State's major
river systems on a five-year cyclic basis. That is, a river,
once surveyed, will not normally be resampled until five
years later. Indicator organisms, identified in the first
round, will serve as an overall measure of changes in
biological health resulting from pollution abatement (or
slippage) in the intervening years. More recently, macro-
invertebrate samples have shown a significant potential for
reflecting annual bio-accumulation of substances such as
PCBs. Integration with longer term accumulations reflected
•by fish flesh sampling, yields a powerful tool in assessing
chronic or acute levels of pollutant contamination.
To date, 175 biological monitoring stations have been
established in ten of the State's 17 major basins. Forty-six
(46) more stations will be established in FY 76-77 and the
remaining 30 stations of a statewide total of 251 will be
done in FY 77-78.
Toxic Substances Monitoring Program
The Department's Division of Fish & Wildlife
initiated analyses of fish flesh for DDT in the early 1960's
because of data suggesting adverse affects of chlorinated
hydrocarbons on reproductive capabilities of fish and
wildlife resources. Results of this investigation led to State
restrictions on use of DDT in 1971. However, research
indicated that DDT analyses could be biased through
contamination with similar compounds, such as poly-
chlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). Therefore, from 1970 to
August, 1975, PCBs were evaluated in all fish flesh analyses
as a peripheral activity to DDT sampling.
Disclosures in mid-1975 of high PCB levels in fish by
EPA sampling precipitated a shift in the Department's mon-
itoring scheme. An intensified sampling program of fish
populations (predator, forage, and rough species), water
columns, and bed sediments was launched in August, 1975,
at stations selected in most large industrialized waterways
throughout the State and in several Adirondack streams.
The objectives of this effort were to: (a) ascertain general
ambient conditions; (b) assess the PCB problem statewide;
and (c) trackdown sources causing identified "hot spots", if
any.
The report presents a summary of the stations
sampled in the various waterways, and the results of PCB
analyses in composite fish flesh samples (weighted mean),
water column, and bottom sediments. PCB concentrations
exceeding the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's
"actionable".level were noted in the Hudson River, Lake
Ontario, Mohawk River, Genesee River, Onondaga Lake
and Lake George. To date, advisories on consumption of
fish were issued only for Lake Ontario, the Hudson River,
Onondaga Lake (mercury) and lake trout in Lake George
(mercury).
Coincident with the concern for PCBs, DDT, and
mercury, was the need for a better handle on toxic
substances in general. Because water column and bottom
sediment sampling are subject to too many vagaries, it was
decided to further utilize fish populations as the media for
detection of a broader scope of toxic substances: Metals
arsenic, cadmium, chromium, copper, lead, mercury and
zinc; and pesticides aldrin, benzene hexachloride (BHC),
chlordane, DDT's, endrin-dieldrin, heptachlor, heptachlor
epoxide, mirex, PCBs, picloram, and other organic com-
pounds as necessary.
Fish of various species will be collected over a
three-year cycle from about 140 statewide sampling loca-
tions and utilized for analysis. If toxicants are present in
the aquatic environment, they should be found in the tissue
of fish, especially if the compounds are persistent and
biomagnify. Analysis of these individuals will therefore
supply data on the current environmental health of each
waterway.
Part II of this program addresses data interpretation
and bioassay aspects. Funding for Part I is provided by
regular State purposes funds while Part II is proposed for
funding under the supplemental Section 106 funds.
Water Quality Accidents Summary
During the past three calendar years there have been
more than 2,000 water quality accidents reported which
accounted for more than 4.5 million gallons of petroleum
products and other hazardous substances being spilled into
the environment. To date in 1976, there have been 410
water quality accidents reported involving over 3,511,500
million gallons of oil and other hazardous substances.
Year
Summary
Number of spills
Volume oil (gallons)
1973
1974
1975
1976
585
590
870
410
2,164,000
1,868,000
508,000
3,511,500
A-133
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APPENDIX A
General Department objectives include the following:
• Ensure immediate investigation of all reported
water quality accidents (WQAs) for evaluation
of environmental hazards;
• Ensure immediate response to all reported
WQAs to minimize environmental damage;
• Ensure that the primary responsibilities for spill
control and cleanup is placed with the dis-
charger;
• Obtain information on the character and status
of WQAs for evaluation of response efforts and
to inform the general public; and
• Obtain information on causes and effects of
WQAs for appropriate legal action, for remedial
actions to limit adverse environmental impacts
and for development of an approach for the
prevention of future spillages of oil and
hazardous substances.
Toward these ends, the Department maintains a
policy and procedures item on Water Quality Accidents
(Chapter 1810 of DEC Policy and Procedures Manual). A
24-hour "hot line" (Area Code 518^457-7362) is
maintained as is an updated Notification Roster listing all
Federal, State, county and local officials having jurisdiction
in any part of the State.
A-134
-------
APPENDIX A
Summary - State of North Carolina
Complete copies of the State of North
Carolina 305(b) Report can be
obtained from the State agency listed
below:
Division of Environmental Manage-
ment
Department 1, of Natural and
Economic Resources
Raleigh, NC 27611
A-135
-------
APPENDIX A
MOUNTAINS
Introduction
The State of North Carolina encompasses an area of
52,712 square miles of which 49,067 is land and 3,645 is
inland waters. According to the 1970 census, the popula-
tion of the State is estimated at 5,082,000. There are an
estimated 40,000 miles of streams and 1,382 identified
surface water dischargers within the State.
North Carolina is divided into three distinct regions,
each of which has its own unique water resource benefits
and problems. The Mountain region is characterized by its
high mountain peaks (223 mountains have elevations
greater than 5,000 feet), dense woodlands and relatively
sparse population. The water quality in this region is good
with the many spring-fed mountain streams providing high
quality waters which support many excellent trout
fisheries. While the cold turbulent waters of this region are
capable of assimilating much larger quantities of oxygen-
consuming materials than the Piedmont and Coastal waters,
the protection of sensitive fish species such as mountain
trout requires the prevention of even slight degradation of
water quality.
The Piedmont region is characterized by much lower
elevations and gently rolling hills. Since this region is the
most populated and industrialized area of the State, a
COASTAL PLAIN
tremendous demand is placed on water resources. Not only
does the Piedment region contribute the heaviest waste load
to the waters, but it also has the greatest demand for clean
water for public and industrial consumption and for
recreation. As would be expected, the majority of the
state's water quality problems occur in this region.
The Coastal Plain region is characterized by generally
flat terrain spanning from the higher elevations near the
Piedmont to the low lying swamplands in the east to the
sandy beaches of the coast. The water quality in this region
is generally good except in areas of dense population. The
waters in this region have higher temperatures and are slow
moving and sluggish, thus they can assimilate much less
oxygen demanding substances. Drainage from the swamp-
lands often cause naturally occurring low oxygen levels, low
pH, and high color and turbidity in streams in the area.
Since the coastal waters receive the residues from the
interior parts of the State, there is a potential for water
quality problems, especially deposits of harmful substances
and nutrient over-enrichment, in the bays and sounds inside
the Outer Banks. The protection of fish and shellfish in the
coastal waters is an important consideration in this region
since the harvesting of shellfish and commercial and sport
fishing is a major commercial resource of the area.
A-136
-------
APPENDIX A
Section 1 - Program Status
Discharge Compliance
This is an inventory of major municipal and private
facilities within the State. A total is shown for municipal
facilities required to maintain secondary treatment and for
those facilities limited by water quality standards. Totals
for privately owned facilities are for facilities required to
provide best practicable treatment (or secondary treatment)
and those limited by water quality standards. For each
category the number of facilities in compliance with
required treatment levels at the beginning and end of the
reporting period is shown to indicate the increment of
achievement.
Type
facility
Municipal
Private
State/Federal/County
Water
quality-
limited
219
336
66
Number in
compliance
at beginning
of period
40
127
18
Number in Secondary s
compliance treatment .s
at end of /^
period / BPCT
46 153
1 51 486
18 122
Number in
compliance
at beginning
of period
64
302
60
Number in
compliance
at end of
period
68
331
62
Program Achievements
The following is an inventory of major program
achievements during calendar year 1975:
• Planning Element
a. 303(e) Phase I Basin Plan (as of December 31,
1975)
i. Completed: All (14)
ii. Public hearing held: 5
iii. Adopted by N.C. Environmental Manage-
ment Commission: 5
b. 208 Planning Coordination
i. Preliminary work plans reviewed: 5
ii. Final work plans reviewed and
certified: 1
• Permits Program
a. NPDES permits issued: 319
b. State permits issued for construction and oper-
ation of waste treatment facilities: 408
• Municipal Facilities Management
a. 201 Facility Planning Area Delineations
i. Tentative: 41
ii. Final: 56
b. Step I Grant Applications approved by
EPA: 112
i. Total of eligible project
costs: $5,543,231
c.
d.
e.
f.
ii.
iii.
Step
EPA
ii. Total of Federal grants (75%):
$4,293,099
iii. Total of State grants (12.5%): $715,515
201 Facilities Plans
i. Completed and submitted to State for
review: 34
Certified by State: 13
Approved by EPA: 6
II Grant Applications Approved by
2
Total of eligible project costs:
$1,316,645
Total of Federal grants (75%): $987,484
Total of State grants (12.5%): $164,580
Construction drawings and specifications
reviewed: 6
Step III Grant Applications Approved by
EPA:10
i. Total of eligible project costs:
$74,741,356
Federal grants (75%):
in.
Total of
$56,056,107
Total of
$9,342,268
State grants (12.5%):
Monitoring Element
a. Intensive Water Quality Surveys Completed: 27
b. Primary Sampling Network
i. Number of sampling visits: 4,560
ii., Field analyses made: 19,779
iii. Laboratory analyses made: 22,999
A-137
-------
APPENDIX A
c. Lake Studies
i. Number of lakes sampled: 28
ii. Number of station visits: 1,353
d. Biological Sampling
i. Stream stations: 136; number sampled;
94 •
Estuary stations: 21; number sampled; 9
Lake studies: 29; number sampled; 15
Special studies: 5
Program Objectives
The following is an inventory of major program
objectives for calendar year 1976:
• Planning Element
a.
b.
303(e) Phase I Basin Plans (14 total)*
i. Public hearing to be held: 9
ii. To be adopted by N.C. Environmental
Management Commission: 9
208 Planning Coordination
i. Preliminary work plans projected to be
reviewed: 12
ii. Final work plans projected to be reviewed
and certified: 18
'All Section 303(e) Basin Plans will be revised
during calendar year 1976.
» Permits Program
a. NPDES Permits projected to be issued: 574
b. State and Federal permit implementation
schedule milestone dates
i. Preliminary plans to be completed: 2
ii. Final plans to be completed: 34
iii. Facilities plans to be completed: 7
iv. Construction to be initiated: 77
v. Construction to be completed: 180
vi. Number of facilities required to attain
operational level to meet final effluent
limits: 387
vii. Facilities required to cease discharge: 6
• Municipal Facilities Management
a. Step I Grant Applications projected to be
approved: 55
i. Total of projected eligible project costs:
$1,823,699
ii. Total of projected Federal grants (75%):
$1,367,776
iii. Total of projected State grants (12.5%):
$224,961
b. 201 Facilities Plans
i. Projected to be certified by State: 43
ii. Projected to be approved by EPA: 32
c. Step II Grant applications projected to be
approved: 29
d. Step III Grant applications projected to be
approved: 8
Monitoring Element
a. Intensive Water Quality Surveys Scheduled: 25
b. Primary Sampling Network
i Number of station visits scheduled: 4,440
ii. Number of field analyses projected:
26,600
iii. Number of laboratory analyses projected:
30,895
c. Lake Studies
i. Number of lakes projected to be sampled:
32
ii. Number of station visits projected: 2,663
d. Biological Sampling
i. Stream stations: 150; number of sampling
visits projected; 226
ii. Estuary stations: 5; number of sampling
visits projected; 15
iii. Lake studies: 19; number projected to be
sampled; 19
Pollution Control Costs
• Municipal and Industrial Treatment Costs
Total cost (Average)
Capital
Operating
(annual)
Industrial costs-to meet $353,477,500 $72,678,980
1983 goals
Municipal costs - per 1974 $2,158,705,810 $18,000,018
needs survey
Industrial costs are based on Effluent Guide-
lines Economic Assessment Information provided by
EPA. Costs estimates were made for most of the
major industry in North Carolina. However, several
hundred of the smaller industries and the power
generating plants are not included in the above cost
estimates. Municipal costs have been updated to
reflect January 1976 dollars via the 1976 Needs
"Printout of Record" which is based on the 1974
Survey of Needs for Municipal Wastewater Treatment
Facilities. Annual municipal operation and mainte-
nance costs were estimated from existing facilities
and are 1975 cost estimates.
A-138
-------
APPENDIX A
• Non-point Source Control Costs
Cost estimates for the control of non-point
source pollution are unavailable on a statewide basis.
As designated and/or non-designated Section 208
studies provide more detailed information relative to
the magnitude, sources, and controls of non-point
source pollution, control cost evaluations will be
made. Such costs will be reported in future 305(b)
Reports.
Section 2 - Current Water
Quality, Trends, Objectives
Monitoring
• Data Summary — Primary Monitoring Network
The Primary Monitoring Network consists of
369 fixed stations on the mainstem or major
flowing streams of the State and on major tributaries
to those streams. This network is maintained to
collect data on the present status of water quality and
evaluate historical trends in water quality.
The water quality data for each primary station
have been evaluated by parameter groups. The follow-
ing statewide evaluation of the current water quality,
with respect to each parameter group, is based on the
station evaluations, special studies, and undocu-
mented general knowledge (Table 1).
• Harmful Substances
The parameters evaluated in this group include
cadmium, total chromium, cobalt, copper,.iron, lead,
manganese, zinc, arsenic, pesticides, and phenols.
Iron, manganese, and mercury were found to be at
significantly high levels in several of the river basins in
the State. Iron and manganese, while they do pose
problems in public water supplies, do not appear to
be controllable to a significant degree since they are
believed to be naturally occurring due to the iron and
manganese bearing clays common to the Piedmont
region of the State. The source of mercury in the
waters has not yet been definitely established. A
special study conducted in the Haw and Deep River
drainage areas revealed higher than background levels
of mercury in the bottom muds of streams receiving
wastes from municipalities where mercury discharges
had been higher than normal prior to the 1971 drive
to eliminate mercury as a source of pollution. While
this study does indicate that municipal discharges
contributed to high mercury levels in bottom muds,
the extent to which these discharges are now con-
tributing to the mercury problem and the contribu-
tion of non-point sources is unknown. Levels
determined from bottom muds not having received
mercury pollution were found to be at concentrations
of 10 ug/gram or less. This may be a background level
for this part of North Carolina. Further studies of the
problem are planned for FY 1977.
Physical Modification
The parameters evaluated in this group include
temperature, turbidity, suspended and total solids,
color, and Secchi disc. While physical modification
does not appear to be as serious a problem as other
parameter groups, some degradation was noted with
respect to turbidity and suspended solids. Many of
the streams in the Piedmont area of the State are
often highly turbial because of .soil and clay loss and
resuspension during rainfall events. The Sediment
Control Act of 1974, when fully implemented,
should significantly reduce sedimentation from con-
struction operations, a principal source of suspended
and settleable solids.
Eutrophication Potential
The parameters evaluated in this group include
nitrate + nitrogen, total phosphorous, and ortho-
phosphate. An evaluation of the existing water
quality with respect to eutrophication potential was
not made for each primary station. While there have
been only a few occurrences of severe algae blooms in
the State, the potential for such occurrences does
exist. Of particular concern are existing and planned
reservoirs receiving large quantities of treated
domestic and industrial wastes, as well as under-
termined quantities of nutrients from non-point
sources. Evaluation of the eutrophication potential is
greatly hampered by the lack of sound information
on levels of nutrients in slow-moving streams and
short retention time reservoirs which would, when
present, cause over-enrichment problems. The control
of the discharge of nutrients is further hampered by
the lack of quantitative standards' for the major
nutrients (nitrogen and phosphorous). A study
presently being conducted on the Chowan River
should yield valuable information in evaluating over-
enrichment problems in the estuary systems.
Salinity, Acidity, and Alkalinity
The parameters evaluated in this group include
pH, alkalinity, specific conductance, salinity, and
acidity. With the exception of a few isolated problem
areas receiving industrial waste with an abnormal pH
or high salinity, the parameters in this group do not
appear to pose significant water quality problems in
this State. Most of the industrial waste problems are
expected to be corrected by July 1977.
A-139
-------
APPENDIX A
TABLE 1
WATER QUALITY CONDITIONS
AND TRENDS
Water Quality
Parameter group Poor % Fair % Good % Excellent %
Harmful substances 21 57 19 189 64 48 16
Physical modification - 0 31 107 31 240 68
Salinity, acidity 62 35 10 248 71 61 17
Oxygen depletion 93 29 8 150 43 162 46
Health hazard 30 9 49 14 161 47 101 30
Station summaries 41 37 11 294 84 15 4
Trend
Parameter group Improving % Stable % Degrading %
Harmful substances
Physical modification
Eutrophication potential
Salinity, acidity
Oxygen depletion
Health hazard
Station summaries
35
9
1
8
37
25
10
11
3
1
2
11
7
3
260
341
314
334
310
313
340
88
97
98
96
88
92
97
1
-
2
8
3
3
_
1
0
1
2
1
1
0
Oxygen Depletion
The parameters evaluated in this group include
dissolved oxygen, total Kjeldahl, ammonia, BOD, and
COD. Dissolved oxygen levels in the major rivers in
the State, with the exception of a relatively short
segment of Tar River, are within limits recommended
for the protection and propagation of fish and
wildlife. However, water quality problems with
respect to dissolved oxygen do exist in several of the
smaller streams, particularly in the densely populated
areas of the Piedmont. Of particular concern are the
streams in flat terrain with a critical low flow of 0.0
cfs. These streams are unable to assimilate the small
amounts of waste they presently receive unless
treatment in excess of BAT is provided. Since many
of the dischargers of this type are small facilities (less
than 20,000 gallons per day), the economic burden of
this degree of treatment is felt to be unrealistic. While
dissolved oxygen concentrations in the State have
shown some improvement in the past year, it is
anticipated that the achievement of 1977 effluent
limitations in 1976 and early 1977 will produce
significant improvement in dissolved oxygen con-
centrations throughout the State.
Health Hazard
The parameters evaluated in this group include
fecal coliform and total coliform. Elevated bacterio-
logical levels is the most noticeable and widespread
water quality problem in the State. While significant
improvement has been noted in certain drainage areas
due to increased number of facilities providing more
adequate disinfection, severe problems still exist in
densely populated area. The non-point source con-
tribution to the coliform contamination of the waters
is considered to be substantial. Unless effective
control measures of the non-point source contribu-
tion are developed, achievement of fecal coliform
standards for protection of bathing waters could be a
major pitfall in achieving the 1983 water quality
goals. Total coliform levels in shellfish waters subject
to drainage from developed areas have shown a
marked increase in recent years (based on shellfish
sanitation data). It is anticipated that some reversal of
this trend will result from the completion and
implementation of Section 208 studies for these
areas. Bacteriological studies of the major recreational
lakes in the State indicate that these waters are
relatively free of fecal coliform contaminants.
Table 1 is a summary of water quality condi-
tions and trends found at all primary stations
where sufficient data existed for evaluation. Since the
primary sampling network was established to provide
a representative sampling of water quality in the
State, this table should reflect the general quality of
the waters of North Carolina. The existing water
quality is described as follows:
Poor: Pollutants were found to be in excess of
recommended levels most of the time.
Fair: Pollutants were found to be in excess of
recommended levels some of the time.
Good: Pollutants were seldom found to be in
excess of recommended levels, but slight
degradation was noted.
Excellent: Pollutants were never found in excess of
recommended levels, and no degradation
was noted.
Water quality trends are described as improving,
stable, or degrading. These trends were evaluated on
the basis of existing data and although flow and
temperature were considered in determining the
trend, more or less favorable flow and temperature
conditions may reverse the trend in future years As
the data base is broadened to reflect variations re-
A-140
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APPENDIX A
suiting from climatic conditions, trend characteristics
will be more responsive to changes in point and non-
point controls.
Biological Network
Biological monitoring as an integrated part of
other monitoring programs consists of collecting and
identifying bottom-dwelling animals, attached algae,
aquatic plants, and fish at selected stations. The
stations selected are primarily stream stations; how-
ever, some sampling is done involving reservoirs and
estuaries. Biological monitoring is a means of detect-
ing subtle changes over long periods of time, abrupt
changes that need investigation, or evidence of a need
for more stringent regulatory controls. The North
Carolina Biological Monitoring Network was estab-
lished in 1975.
Since this program is still in its infant stage, the
statewide coverage is not sufficient to evaluate bio-
logically based water quality on a statewide or basin
basis. In addition, no historical data are available to
detect biologically based water quality improvements
or long-term trends. The State summary of stream
stations is included for general information but
should not be considered as a representative statewide
sample.
State Summary
Stream Stations
Clean: 29
Slightly degraded: 34
Degraded: 33
Lake Stations
Lake Name
Lake James
Lake Rhodhiss
Lake Hickory
Lookout Shoals Lake
Hiwassee Lake
Fontana Lake
Santeetlah Lake
Lake Wheeler
John H. Kerr
Lake Gaston
Roanoke Rapids Lake
Rocky Mount Reservoir
W. Kerr Scott
High Rock Lake
96 stations sampled
14 lakes sampled
Status
Mesotrophic
Early eutrophic
Early eutrophic
Early eutrophic
Early mesotrophic
Aging oligotrophic
Aging oligotrophic
Eutrophic
Mesotrophic
Mesotrophic
Mesotrophic
Mesotrophic
Eutrophic
Early eutrophic
Bacteriological Lake Studies
The following lakes were sampled during the
summer of 1974 to determine the bacteriological
quality of the waters.
Lake name
Acres
Attendance
(people/year)
Lake Lure
White Lake
Singletary Lake
Black Lake
Whispering Pines Lakes
(six lakes)
Lake James
Lake Rhodhiss
Lake Hickory
Lookout Shoals Lake
Lake Norman
Mountain Island Lake
Lake Wylie
Hiwassee Lake
Apalachia Lake
Fontana Lake
Lake Santeetlah
John H. Kerr Reservoir
Lake Gaston
Roanoke Rapids Lake
W. Kerr Scott Reservoir
High Rock Lake
Badin Lake
Lake Tillery
Total
1,500
1,068
572
1,418
387
6,510
3,515
4,110
1,270
32,510
3,235
12,455
6,280
1,123
10,670
2,863
83,200
20,300
4,900
4,000
1 5,886
5,973
5,260
229,005
50,000
250,000
5,000
7,000
Not available
239,000
263,000
420,000
126,000
2,232,000
121,000
6,029,000
315,000
1 1 ,000
644,000
10,000
3,710,000
130,000
1 79,000
595,000
25,000
1 5,000
500,000
1 5,876,000
Fecal coliform levels in the recreational areas of
these lakes were found to be within acceptable limits,
indicating that the waters are satisfactory for recrea-
tion in and on the waters.
Intensive Surveys - Special Studies
Intensive water quality surveys were carried out
on 11 streams to provide data for the verification of
water quality models. Most of the segments studied
are located below existing waste treatment facilities,
with the result that water quality violations were
found in several cases.
Sixteen Class "D" streams in the upper Neuse
drainage area were studied in December 1975, for
possible reclassification. Those streams draining the
heavily urban areas of Raleigh exhibited depressed
DO values and fecal coliform violations. Streams in
the surrounding suburban areas were generally found
to be clean and free of violations. Eighty-four other
A-141
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Class "D" streams are being studied, with sampling
scheduled for completion by July 1, 1976.
Several special studies were initiated or con-
tinued during 1 975, which address specific existing or
potential water quality problems in the State. Two
monitoring programs are being conducted in the First
Colony Farms and Open Ground Farms areas to
assess the impact of land clearing, soil preparation,
crop cultivation, and cattle production on the water
quality of streams surrounding these two megafarm
operations in eastern North Carolina. The Chowan
River and estuary system study in northeast North
Carolina is a continuing project designed for the
formulation and evaluation of the nutrient budget
and development of predictive models for this type of
river/estuary system. Mercury studies in the upper
Cape Fear drainage area revealed higher than back-
ground levels of mercury in the bottom muds of
streams receiving wastes from municipalities where
mercury discharges had been higher than normal prior
to the 1971 drive to eliminate mercury as a source of
pollution. Further studies are planned to assess the
magnitude and possible solutions to this problem.
Oil and Chemical Spills, Fish Kills
Oil and Chemical Spills
Number of spills reported: 151
Number reaching watercourse: 93
Number resulting in adverse water quality: 81
Number of recommended assessments: 19
Fish Kills
Number of fish kills investigated: 12
Number of recommended assessments: 5
Non-point Source Pollution
• Estimated Pollution Loads
Estimated number of Ibs/day of pollutants
reaching surface waters of the State contributed by
agricultural activities are:
Beef Dairy Swine Poultry Fertilizer Total
Number 719,399139,1891,390,82172,955,776
BOD 21,582 24,446 214,184 36,478 - 298,690
TOC 71,939 32,013 216,966 51,069 - 371,988
N 5,755 4,732 12,517 14,591 7,400 44,996
PO4 2,158 3,758 6,954 2,189 146 182
APPENDIX A
These data are based on 1973 agriculture sta-
tistics. The actual pollutant loads are believed to
fluctuate greatly from year to year as crop and live-
stock production is adjusted to meet market de-
mands.
Land use, by thousands of acres, has been esti-
mated as follows (1975 figures):
Total Urban Water Cropland and pasture Forest Other
31,190.4 1,461.7 2,565.1
8,197.7
18,355.5 610.4
Major crop production, by thousands of acres,
have been estimated as follows: (1974 figures),
Corn —
Wheat
Oats
Barley —
Rye -
Sorghums —
1,720
325
170
70
105
100
Soybeans
Peanuts
Cotton
Tobacco
Hay
Potatoes
- 1,475
168
158
- 1,187
325
39.7
The woods products industry is well developed
in many areas of the State, and sediment depo-
sitions occur from both harvesting and the building of
logging roads. However, the degree of impact of these
operations on water quality has not been assessed.
Urban runoff is known to cause significant
water quality problems in several areas of the
State, particularly in the densely populated areas of
Raleigh Durham, Winston-Salem, Charlotte, Asheville,
and other areas. This problem is being addressed in
Raleigh-Durham and Asheville through Section 208
studies.
The actual impact of the above non-point
source pollutant loads cannot, at the present
time, be determined. However through the Phase II
Water Quality Management Planning Process and/or
the designated Section 208 planning process, these
figures will be further refined and an evaluation of
the impacts and controls will be mgde.
Adequacy of State Erosion Control Programs
In 1973, Rules and Regulations for Erosion and
Sediment Control were promulgated pursuant to G.S.
113A Article 4. This much-needed regulation has
resulted in 1,500 erosion control plans to date, which
demonstrate the excellent beginning being made in
this area.
A-142
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APPENDIX A
Section 3 -
Water Quality Standards
Existing Standards
The classifications and water quality standards
applicable to the streams of North Carolina are in tabular
form below. This information is based upon the classifica-
tions and applicable standards effective January 1, 1976.
Class
A-l
A-ll
A-llandB
B
C and SC
SA
SB
D
Total
Miles
202
4,844
254
1,235
*31,173
1,186
484
596
*39.974
Percent
0.5
12.1
0.6
3.1
78.0
3.0
1.2
1.5
100.0
'Estimated.
• Attainment of Fishable (1977) Goal
PERCENT WHICH WILL MEET 1977 GOAL. A
total of 98.5 percent of the streams in the State are
assigned classifications and water quality standards which
will protect the waters for fish and wildlife propagation and
secondary recreation. The exact mileage of streams which
do not meet these standards is unavailable; however, the
number is estimated to be approximately 5.5 percent of the
total.
If the construction of proposed wastewater treatment
facilities proceeds in accordance with projected schedules,
and if all wastewater treatment facilities are properly
maintained and operated, meeting effluent limitations
established in Section 303(e) Basin Plans, all streams which
are presently assigned classifications and water quality
standards for the protection of fish and wildlife propaga-
tion and secondary recreation will meet these standards.
However, it is anticipated that total compliance with these
standards will not occur until after July 1977, because of
time constraints required to meet recent standards revisions
and delays in completing municipal facilities scheduled
under the grants program.
STREAMS WHICH WILL NOT MEET 1977
GOAL. There are presently 180 streams or segments of
streams, comprising a total of 596 miles, which remain
Class "D". Of these, 19 stream segments of 96 miles of
streams, have been approved by the Regional Administra-
tion, EPA, for the retention of the "D" classification, due
to naturally poor quality, man-made pollution or
technological limitations. The remaining 161 stream seg-
ments are presently being evaluated and will be given
consideration for upgrading for fish and wildlife propaga-
tion, and secondary recreation upon completion of the
evaluations. Final action is scheduled to be taken relative to
these streams during FY 1977.
• Attainment of Swimmable (1983) Goal
Evaluation of the waters in the state for
swimming uses over and above the 8.4 percent
presently assigned classifications and water quality
standards for the protection of sucK uses has yet to
be accomplished. It will be necessary to conduct rigid
evaluations and studies of all of the streams in the
State to determine the best usage and the quality of
the waters prior to an assessment of those streams
which will be acceptable for swimming uses. Since
this must be done, it is reasonable to assume that
such will not be completed until mid-1977. In the
meantime, the further development of the continuing
planning process, particularly the acquisition of data
generated from studies in the designated Section 208
areas will provide valuable information which can be
used in the evaluations.
Upon completion of the evaluations, proposals
for reclassification will be submitted to the Regional
Administrator, EPA, for comment and approval. Sub-
sequently, proposals will be submitted to the En-
vironmental Management Commission for authoriza-
tion of public hearings for consideration of the pro-
posals for reclassification or retention of the pre-
sently assigned classifications. Upon completion of
this process, it will be possible to project the attain-
ment of the 1983 water quality goals.
A-143
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APPENDIX A
Summary - State of North Dakota
Complete copies of the State of North
Dakota 305(b) Report can be
obtained from the State agency listed
below:
Division of Water Supply and Pollu-
tion Control
Department of Health
Bismarck, ND 58505
A-145
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APPENDIX A
Summary and Evaluation
An evaluation and comparison of surface water
quality has been determined from data compiled from the
North Dakota State Department of Health Water Quality
Monitoring Program. Data from calendar years 1972 and
1975 were used for the evaluation and comparison. The
monitoring stations selected involved the four major river
basins in the State as follows:
Missouri River Basin
James River Basin
Red River Basin
Souris River Basin
4 Stations
2 Stations
3 Stations
1 Station
Six parameters of quality were compared at each
station. Identical parameters were used for each station.
The Department's Surface Water Quality Standards, revised
in the fall of 1973, were used as a basis for determining the
number of violations which occurred for each of the years
noted above for the comparison and evaluation. The
following is the sum total of all violations noted for each of
the six parameters covered in this study:
Dissolved oxygen
Phosphates (PO4)
Coliform
Fecal coliform
Total dissolved solids
Chlorides
Calendar
year 1972
5
44
57
35
42
0
Calendar
year 1975
4
50
19
18
33
1
Due to a change in laboratory procedures, nutrients
(nitrates and phosphates) are discussed in the non-point
pollution section which appears later in the report.
For waters suitable for recreation, fishing and wild-
life, the prime parameters considered are dissolved oxygen,
coliform and fecal coliform bacteria and nutrients. Total
dissolved solids and chlorides are of lesser importance for
the above-noted users, but have influence on quality as it
relates to municipal, industrial and agricultural users.
While the total number of dissolved oxygen violations
was not considered high in 1972, the number of violations
in 1975 dropped to four. This is a 20 percent reduction.
Reductions in coliform and fecal coliform violations were
67 percent and 49 percent from 1972 to 1975. There was a
12 percent increase in phosphate violations noted in 1975
as compared to 1972. The number of noted TDS violations
were reduced 22 percent from 1972 to 1975. Only one
chloride violation occurred. This occurred in 1975.
The surface waters at the stations evaluated in this
report met the State's Water Quality Standards for
dissolved oxygen, coliform, fecal coliform bacteria and
total dissolved solids more consistently in 1975 than in
1972. Based on the reduced number of violations for these
four parameters, there was an improvement in water
quality, relative to these parameters, from 1972 to 1975.
As there was an increase in the phosphate violations, this
indicates that there was a degradation of the surface waters,
relative to this parameter from 1972 to 1975. The
appearance of one chloride violation in 1975 cannot be
considered to constitute a degradation of the surface waters
for the chloride parameter at these stations.
Stream flows are a factor that must be considered in
quality control. Comparative stream flows for the two years
evaluated reveal that flows in the James River were
considerably higher in 1975 as compared to 1972, while
flows in the Souris River were slightly higher in 1975 as
compared to 1972. Flows in the Red River Mainstem were
higher in 1975 compared to 1972, but flows in the
Sheyenne River (one of its tributaries) were about the same
for the two years. Flows in the Missouri River Mainstem
were about the same, while flows in the Little Missouri
River (one of its tributaries) were lower and flows in the
Heart River (another tributary) were slightly higher in 1975
compared to 1972. The Department, based on a consider-
able number of years of stream sampling and survey
experience, has noted that stream water quality, following
spring thaw runoff or rains and during higher flows will
usually have the following characteristics as compared to
low flow conditions: (1) Increased coliform counts
normally after runoff from spring thaw or rains; (2) Lower
TDS; and (3) generally no corresponding drop in
phosphates which would be compatible with the lower
TDS. The streams in the western half of the State, with the
exception of the Mainstem Missouri River, have historically
had high TDS due to springs feeding the streams and soil
conditions in that area. The Department expects to conduct
further stream studies on some of these streams (note
discussion on non-point sources in the report) to determine
possible problem areas. It is possible that the State's Water
Quality Standards for TDS and phosphates are too stringent
as they presently apply to these streams even though all
controllable point and non-point source problems can be
handled satisfactorily.
With the exception of a few installations, all munici-
pal treatment facilities use the waste stabilization lagoon
method of waste treatment. The use of these facilities
enables the municipalities to hold all wastes from discharg-
ing to the receiving streams during cold weather months
when streams are ice-covered. Discharges from these facili-
ties are made only with Departmental approval and
generally under open water conditions. Exceptions would
occur when the facility does not have adequate retention
capacity. The municipalities with inadequate capacities are
on the Department's priority listing for future Federal grant
funding when available.
A-146
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APPENDIX A
Summary - State of Ohio
Complete copies of the State of Ohio
305(b) Report can be obtained from
the State agency listed below:
Ohio Environmental Protection Agency
P.O. Box 118
Columbus, OH 43215
A-147
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APPENDIX A
Since the State of Ohio did not provide a short TABLE 1
summary in its 305(b) Report, this summary consists of
selected excerpts from that report. MAJOR DRAINAGE BASINS IN OHIO WITH
NUMBER OF AMBIENT SAMPLING STATIONS*
Water Quality in Ohio
_. DM- r* * i D j *u i- * • Stream Mainstem Tributaries Total
The water Pollution Control Board, the first organiza-
tion for the control of water pollution in Ohio, was
established by law in 1951. During its 20-year existence, it Lake Ene Drainage Basm
established and administered a water permit system. Public
and industrial entities spent over $1 billion each on water Maumee River Basin 3 1_» 22
pollution abatement equipment during its existence. Portage River Basin 1 - 1
On October 23, 1972, the Ohio EPA was formed by Sandusky River Basin 2 1 3
consolidating environmental programs from several State Huron Rlver Basm 2-2
departments into one agency. These included the Water Vermilion River Basin 1 ~ 1
Pollution Control Board and portions of the water planning Black Rlver Basm 1 ~ 1
functions operated under the Ohio Department of Natural Rocky River Basm 2-2
Resources. The Ohio EPA water pollution control programs Cuyah°9a Rlver Basin 5 7 12
are designed to be consistent with the requirements of PL Cha9nn River Basm 1 - 1
92-500. The Ohio EPA currently administers the NPDES Grand Rlver Basm 1 ~ 1
permit system for the State, performs ambient water Ashtabula Rlver Basm 1 - 1
quality surveillance, and develops State water quality Conneaut Creek Basm 1 ~ _L
standards. To date, Ohio EPA has issued 3,244 permits to 48
both municipal and industrial sources.
Data used in this report were compiled during water Ohio River Drainage Basin
year 1975 (October 1974 through September 1975). The
sampling program consisted of 124 sites which were Mahoning River Basin 6 39
sampled on a regular basis for a variety of chemical Muskingum River Basin — — —
parameters. Table 1 lists the major drainage basins of the Scioto River Basin 3 14 17
State along with the number of Ohio EPA ambient Hocking River Basin 6 5 11
sampling stations located both on the mainstem and Great Miami River Basin 7 18 25
tributaries within each basin. Data from other sources were Mill Creek Basin 3 1 4
used wherever possible. Little Miami River Basin 4 6 10
For the purposes of this report, the State of Ohio was
divided into four regions. Figure 1 illustrates the four
regions of the State, while Figure 2 shows the major rivers
in each region. An analysis of the water quality in each 124
region is provided in the report.
*ln addition, data from intensive survey stations or other sources
are included in the report wherever possible.
A-148
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APPENDIX A
FIGURE 1
REGIONS IN OHIO SHOWING MAJOR DRAINAGE BASINS
A-149
-------
APPENDIX A
FIGURE 2
REGIONS IN OHIO SHOWING MAJOR RIVERS
A-150
-------
APPENDIX A
Relationship to
National Goals
With the implementation of the provisions of the Act,
water quality will improve in varying degrees throughout
the State; however, the goals of "fishable, swimmable"
waters will not be met at all times in all waters of the State.
Small streams receiving effluents from significant
dischargers (where the effluent comprises 60 percent of. the
stream flow at low flow conditions) will not meet these
goals even with "best available control technology
economically achievable" (BACTEA) at all point sources.
Water quality problems resulting from non-point sources
and natural seasonal change will not be affected by the
achievement of BACTEA, and will continue to cause water
quality standards violations and limit water uses.
The remainder of this chapter is devoted to a
description by region of the problem areas that will exist
after BACTEA is achieved at all point sources.
Northwest Region
Numerous small tributaries in the Maumee River
Basin will continue to experience problems associated with
rural septic tank dischargers and non-point sources.
Significant dischargers located on small tributaries
will limit water uses in the Huron and Portage River Basins.
These areas in the Portage Basin include Rader Creek
below McComb, Wolf Creek below Gibsonburg, Bull Creek
below Jersey City, and Poe Ditch and the North Branch
below Bowling Green. Poe Ditch and the North Branch are
significant problem areas in the Portage. Poe Ditch is
essentially dry except for the discharge from the Bowling
Green sewage treatment plant. Little dilution is available
from the North Branch during dry weather. Achievement of
Water Quality Standards in these two streams is uncertain.
Jacob Creek below Willard and Rattlesnake Creek below
Norwalk are similar areas in the Huron River Basin.
In the Sandusky, most areas will be suitable for pub-
lic, industrial, and agricultural water supplies, and will sup-
port a diverse community of warm water fish. Combined
sewer overflows will continue to restrict uses below munici-
palities (particularly Bucyrus and Fremont).
Northeast Region
Water quality in the Vermilion, upper Black, upper
Grand, Rocky, Ashtabula except Fields Brook, upper
Cuyahoga, Little Beaver, Chagrin and Conneau Creek will
generally meet the intended uses of the Act. Primary
contact recreation will be restricted in some areas due to
bacterial contamination from non-point sources, and there
will continue to be problems below some dischargers.
Fields Brook, (Ashtabula River Basin), the lower
Mahoning, lower Cuyahoga, and the lower Grand, may not
be suitable for all uses intended by the Act.
Future uses of the lower Grand River are dependent
upon the future of the Diamond Shamrock facility. It is not
economically possible for them to achieve effluent limita-
tions that would permit attainment of stream standards for
dissolved solids and chlorides. To meet the current stream
standards, Diamond Shamrock will have to re-route their
discharge to Lake Erie or shut down their plant. The other
alternative is a modification of stream standards for this
section of the river. Until this situation is resolved, future
uses of the water cannot be estimated.
Because of the high concentration of industrial and
municipal dischargers to the lower Cuyahoga River, it be-
came necessary to modify stream standards in this area.-
This portion of the river has been designated as an indus-
trial water supply and secondary contact recreation.
The mainstem of the Mahoning from Warren to the
State line and Fields Brook in the Ashtabula River Basin
will be suitable for industrial water supply only.
Southeast Region
With a few exceptions, all streams other than mining
streams in this region will meet all intended uses of the Act.
Dissolved oxygen and fecal coliform violations will
probably continue to occur below major population cen-
ters, and sewage treatment plants, limiting primary contact
recreation and aquatic life in these areas.
A problem peculiar to this region which will not be
solved by the application of "best available treatment" is
that of streams affected by mine drainage. Many streams,
including Moxahala Creek, Brush Creek, and some smaller
tributaries, are severely degraded by acid mine drainage
from abandoned strip and deep mines. These are, to a great
extent, non-point sources for which no "best available
treatment" exists. This drainage can only be eliminated by
long-term land reclamation programs.
Upper Stillwater Creek, among others, is severely
affected by neutralized mine drainage, containing high
concentrations of dissolved solids and sulfates. This prob-
lem is due to both active and inactive mining, and will be
solved only by long-range land reclamation.
Southwest Region
Most areas in this region will be suitable for all uses
except primary contact recreation due to bacterial con-
tamination from non-point sources.
Areas that will not meet the 1983 goals even with
BACTEA at all point sources are: Duck Creek (Little
Miami), lower Mill Creek and West Fork of Mill Creek,
Scioto River below Columbus, Paint Creek (Scioto River)
below Mead Paper, and Little Scioto River below Marion.
Duck Creek in the Little Miami River Basin received
combined sewer overflow discharges from the Cincinnati
area and, hence, will not be suitable for primary contact
recreation.
A-151
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APPENDIX A
The West Fork of Mill Creek and the lower Mill Creek
will be suitable only for industrial water supply even with
BACTEA at all point sources because of the Cincinnati
bypass system.
The volume of effluent with respect to stream flow is
the problem in the Scioto River below Columbus. During
critical flow times effluent from the city of Columbus
accounts for almost 95 percent of the stream flow in the
Scioto River downstream of the city. Dissolved oxygen will
be the problem parameter.
Available technology is the limiting factor for the
area in Paint Creek below Mead Paper. Violations of
dissolved oxygen will continue to occur; however, the
magnitude of the violations should be small.
Modeling for the 1974 Waste Load Allocation Report
indicated that better than BACTEA must be achieved by
industrial and municipal dischargers in the Little Scioto
River from Marion to the mouth to meet water quality
standards.
Control Actions and Costs
Section 305(b) of PL 92-500 requires that an esti-
mate be made of: (1)the environmental impact; (2) the
economic and social costs necessary to achieve the objec-
tives of the Act; (3) the economic and social benefits of
such achievement; and (4) an estimate of the date of such
achievement.
No new information has become available for asses-
sing these areas since the 1975 305(b) Report was written.
The best estimate of costs in Ohio can still be found in the
1974 Ohio Municipal Needs Survey which was submitted to
the EPA in August, 1974. The summary sheet abstracted
from that report is shown as Table 2. An estimate of
$7,647 million was made of the costs of building waste-
water treatment plants, repairing and rehabilitating sewer
systems, and building new interceptor sewers. In addition,
an estimate of $6,570 million was made for the collection
and treatment of storm waters. The combined total is
$14,217 million. This is a per capita cost of $600, based on
projected 1990 population.
The survey shows $26 million is required at plants
which must meet "secondary treatment" levels, with
$1,500 million needed at plants required to meet an
effluent limitation more stringent than secondary treat-
ment. An evaluation of the basis for these totals indicated
two important facts: (a) the need for advanced wastewater
treatment to meet water quality standards due to the
prevalence of low flow streams in Ohio; and (b) the
pollution abatement program conducted in Ohio prior to
the enactment of PL 92-500 resulted in the installation of
facilities designed for secondary treatment.
The cost of the needed sewer systems in Categories
III and IV total $2,322 million, while the costs of
correcting bypass problems associated with combined
sewers was $3,790 million. The cost for treatment of storm
TABLE 2
MUNICIPAL WASTEWATER TREATMENT
FACILITIES-1974 SURVEY OF NEEDS
Category I:
Category II:
Category IMA:
Category 1MB:
Category IVA:
Category IVB:
Category V:
Sub-total
Category VI:
Total
Facilities to meet "second-
ary treatment"
Facilities to meet advanced
treatment or water quality
standards
Sewer costs for correcting
"infiltration/inflow" prob-
lems
Sewer costs for replace-
ment/rehabilitation
Construction of collection
sewers
Construction of new in-
terceptors
Correction of bypassing
problems due to combined
sewers
Treatment and control of
storm waters
June 1973
(Millions of dollars)
26
1,508
635
115
626
946
3,790
7,646
6,570
14,216
waters in urban areas was estimated at $6,570 million.
A correcponding estimate was made for the cost of
industrial wastewater treatment facilities, as shown in Table
3. The $386 million is on the low side because of the
exclusions noted. The costs for very small facilities were
not estimated, although the total cost could be substantial
because of the large number.
The use of alternative approaches to solving pollution
problems, and the social and economic factors involved are
worthy of discussion. One example of this is the elimina-
tion of phosphorus from wastewater by banning the use of
phosphate containing detergents. This approach was taken
by the City of Akron as an alternate to removing
phosphorus from the wastewater to meet the requirements
of the International Joint Commission (IJC) agreement.
The IJC agreement imposes an effluent limitation of
1.0 mg/1 phosphorus (as P) on all municipalities discharging
over 1.0 MGD into the Lake Erie drainage basin.
The City of Akron imposed a ban on phosphate
containing detergents effective January 1973. All of the
suburbs of Akron that are tributary to the Akron waste-
A-152
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APPENDIX A
water treatment system instituted phosphate detergent bans
by May 1973. These actions reduced the phosphorus
entering the wastewater treatment facility by 14 percent
between 1972 and 1973. This was followed by another 14
percent reduction in influent loading in 1974. The effluent
from the facility decreased with time as the stock of
phosphate detergent was used up. The data show that the
phosphorus concentration was approaching the limitation
of 1.0 mg/1 at the end of 1974. There appears to be a
seasonal effect superimposed on a long period trend in that
the concentration data for the spring months of 1973,
1974, and 1975 are about equal. However, there is a
significant difference in concentrations for the fall months
of 1973 and 1974. The concentrations for the fall months
of 1975 are about equal with the fall months of 1974. If
the indicated trend continues, the City of Akron may
achieve the phsophorus limitation by the alternative means.
Very intensive assessment of the social and economic
costs and benefits of attaining the objectives of the Act will
be required in several areas in Ohio where a combination of
natural conditions and long-term industrial/municipal
development has resulted in a water use pattern that may
prevent the attainment of all of the goals of the Act. Two
areas that illustrate this are the lower Cuyahoga River and
the mainstem of the Mahoning River. The Ohio EPA has
recognized the special problem of the lower Cuyahoga
River by adopting special water quality standards, EP-1-09,
that classified the water for use as an industrial water
supply and secondary contact. In addition, the need for a
minimum dissolved oxygen level was eliminated for the late
summer months. The water quality standards for the
Mahoning River are still under consideration.
Major industry in Ohio can be placed in two
categories: Those with, and those without effective NPDES
permits. Ohio law and regulations do not allow an NPDES
permit to become effective if an adjudication hearing has
been requested. Approximately 50 percent of the major
industrial dischargers fall into that category.
The report persents the compliance status for Ohio
major dischargers with effective NPDES permits. For those
industries that received permits in 1973 and 1974, both
approval of plans and completion of construction were
ahead of the schedules in the NPDES permits. In many
cases, the industry was at or near compliance when the
NPDES permit was issued and became effective. Portions of
the initial planning was completed by many industries
before the NPDES permits became effective. As abatement
programs continued, the plans were approved and construc-
tion completed as the permits became effective. Therefore,
looking at this partial grouping, the compliance picture
appears optimistic.
For the remaining permits in the adjudication
process, it is an entirely different situation. In this group,
many will not meet the statutory deadline of July 1, 1977
due to a lack of Federal effluent guidelines and time to
construct necessary facilities. Currently, many industries
are caught in an impossible situation where they cannot
meet ^ the July 1, 1977 deadline and, therefore, cannot
obtain a permit that places them on a compliance schedule.
Until changes are made in PL 92-500, this problem will
continue. Extensions beyond the July 1, 1977 compliance
date must be permitted on a case-by-case basis.
Non-point Sources
Reduction of potential pollution hazards from non-
point sources on all lands in Ohio could be aided greatly by
a strong policy on proper land use. Improper uses and rapid
changes in land use result in runoff and erosion. Much of
the land in Ohio that would be best suited for agriculture is
being used for urbanization development and highways. In
1960, non-agricultural uses of land accounted for 3.5
million acres. A figure of 5.5 million acres in non-
agricultural uses is projected for 1985 and 7.1 million acres
by the year 2000.
Harvested cropland is expected to decrease by 15
percent by the year 2000. This decrease will be ac-
companied by a reduction in the overall quality of the
cropland, since less productive land will be brought into
cultivation. This will result in an increased cost of crop
production per acre as well as increases in potential erosion,
runoff and other pollution hazards.
Problems with non-point source pollution are
generally associated with rainfall and the resulting high
flows in the streams and rivers. These problems, therefore,
tend to be most severe in the late winter-early spring season
in contrast to the critical period in late summer for point
sources of pollution. Non-point pollution in Ohio is derived
from agriculture, mining, construction and urban runoff
sources.
A-153
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APPENDIX A
TABLE 3
COST ESTIMATES IN OHIO FOR INDUSTRIAL
WASTEWATER POLLUTION ABATEMENT FACILITIES
Hocking River $ 480,000
Scioto River 3,060,000
Grand and Ashtabula Rivers 1,330,000
Maumee River 9,680,000
Sandusky River 1,430,000
Central Ohio River and Tributaries 39,850,000
Tuscarawas R iver 11,730,000
Little Beaver River 530,000
Southeast Ohio River and Tributaries 29,700,000
Southwest Ohio River and Tributaries 5,310,000
Little Miami River and Mill Creek 380,000
Huron, Vermilion and Black Rivers 1 7,960,000
Rocky, Chagrin and Cuyahoga Rivers 60,660,000
Great Miami and Wabash Rivers 18,910,000
Walhonding River 1,550,000
Portage River 600,000
Muskingum River 13,160,000
Mahoning River 127,700,000
Lake Erie 41,980,000
Total $386,000,000
NOTE:
• The cost figure was arrived at by estimating on a
permit-by-permit basis the approximate cost per facility.
All costs for entities located within a defined drainage
area were tabulated and added to come up with the
totals by basin. Then the costs for all drainage basins
were added together for the total statewide cost figure.
• All industrial permits (manufacturing and business
service entities) and proposed permits on file with
Central Office WM&E as of February 7, 1975 were used
for cost estimating. Surface mine abatement costs were
included by basin for three hundred mines.
• Existing power plants' costs for pollution sources other
than thermal were estimated, but costs for cooling
facilities at Hutchings, Gavin, and Davis-Besse were
included.
• This estimate did not include costs on abatement
facilities at the municipal power plants, state-owned
power plants, water treatment plants, gas stations,
agricultural runoff, and general non-stream runoff from
most industrial manufacturing sites, pretreatment of
industrial wastes going to municipal sewage plants, and
cooling facilities for most of the public utility steam
electric power plants.
A-154
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APPENDIX A
Summary - State of Oklahoma
Complete copies of the State of
Oklahoma 305(b) Report can be
obtained from the State agency listed
below:
Department of Pollution Control
Box 53504
N.E. 10th & Stonewall
Oklahoma City, OK 73105
A-155
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APPENDIX A
Summary
In this report an attempt has been made to evaluate
the surface waters in Oklahoma using, with one exception,
major streams or stream segments. Most pollution, on the
other hand, occurs in the smaller streams where the flow is
less and the impact greater. In addition, there have been
approximately 2,000 sample sites selected. This monitoring
program is less than five years old and oriented toward
quality control. In some areas, monitoring has begun the
last year or two. This monitoring program has been directed
primarily at the smaller streams where problems are more
likely to occur. One result of this is that more is known
about streams like Cottonwood Creek near Oklahoma City
than about its parent stream, the Cimarron River.
It has also been pointed out that this report does not
address itself to toxicity parameters such as heavy metals,
pesticides, phenols, etc. Because of this, a stream may
appear to be of good quality when it might contain
significant amounts of toxic materials. A separate report
has been prepared by the Oklahoma State Department of
Agriculture relative to chlorinated hydrocarbon pesticide
residues in Oklahoma streams indicating that, in general,
few problems exist. Additionally this report does not
address itself to bacteria. It is unfortunate that there are
insufficient data on these parameters for adequate evalua-
tion. However, toxicity parameters can sometimes be
correlated with other parameters. For example, increase in
phosphate and nitrate values from agricultural areas can
indicate a concurrent rise in pesticide concentrations.
This is the second major attempt at a statewide
evaluation of water quality and it has served as a learning
experience. Additionally, it points out certain deficiencies,
both in quality of the water in certain areas and the
monitoring program in others. Steps have already been
taken to correct some of these deficiencies by reviewing the
monitoring program with an eye toward more data of a
uniform nature to be available for the next evaluation.
In evaluating each stream, two evaluations were
made: Trend-over-distance evaluation for 1975 water year
data; and trend-over-time for all available data. The
trend-over-distance evaluations show that most of our
streams, as expected, are of better quality near the
headwaters than near the mouth resulting in overall
decreases in quality. This decrease in quality is most often
due to the increasing mineral content of the water with
nutrients, .usually, but not always, being an additional
degradation factor.
The trend-over-time study shows a mixture of trends
with some major streams improving, others becoming
worse, and two remaining fairly uniform. This was again
due to mineral values with all but a few major streams
showing overall improvement in nutrient values.
Because this evaluation used unweighted values,
mineral values tended to dominate the general quality
except in southeastern Oklahoma where minerals and
nutrients are of the same order of magnitude. Relatively
severe problems with minerals occur in the Elm and North
Forks of the Red River, the Cimarron River, and the Salt
Fork of the Arkansas River. Streams with major nutrient
problem areas include the North Canadian River, the Deep
Fork of the Canadian River, and the Arkansas River below
Keystone Dam.
Major non-point mineral sources include the salt and
gypsum formations in the drainage of the Elm Fork of the
Red River, the Great Salt Plains on the Salt Fork of the
Arkansas, and the drainage of the Salt Creek near Watonga.
Nutrient non-point sources include agriculture areas in the
southwest and recreation areas along the lakes. Urban area
non-point sources contribute to both mineral and nutrient
levels as well as many other problem-causing compounds.
These urban areas also include the majority of the
point sources. Urban areas in the State include the
Oklahoma City metropolitan area (Oklahoma City,
Edmond, Midwest City, Norman, Moore, etc.), the Tulsa
metropolitan area (Tulsa, Sapulpa, Broken Arrow, etc.),
Muskogee and Lawton-Ft. Sill.
Streams with the best quality include'the Little River
near Broken Bow, the Kiamichi River, and the Illinois
River. Those with the porrest quality are those mentioned
earlier in connection with mineral and nutrient problems.
Only two streams, the North Fork of the Red River and the
Salt Fork of the Arkansas, were in violation of the annual
stream standards. Those violations were apparently due to
non-point mineral sources.
Monitoring was least intense in the southwest and the
north central parts of the State and most intense in the
central and eastern parts. Mineral data were available more
often than was nutrient data.
The final summary, based on available data, is that
the major streams in Oklahoma, although there were
problem areas, were in fair condition in the 1975 water
year, and are apparently improving as a result of point
source control. Intensified control of point source dis-
charges as implementation schedules approach 1977 will
result in further upgrading. Nutrient control for point
sources may be necessary to upgrade tributary quality.
Non-point source control particularly oriented toward
minerals would greatly enhance statewide quality.
A-156
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APPENDIX A
Summary - State of Oregon
Complete copies of the State of
Oregon 305(b) Report can be
obtained from the State agency listed
below:
Oregon Department of Environmental
Quality
1234 W. Morrison St.
Portland, OR 97205
A-157
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APPENDIX A
Summary and Conclusions
Oregon's basic water quality control program remains
essentially as it was described in the Department of
Environmental Quality's (DEQ) water quality control status
report of April, 1975.
The major activities and accomplishments of the
Department's water pollution control program over the past
year were in the following categories.
Monitoring and Surveillance
The DEQ revised its water quality monitoring net-
work, pursuant to EPA regulations, and implemented the
prescribed system of primary and secondary stations.
Instead of continuing the use of some 1,000 stations
statewide, the Department now utilizes a total of 74
stations — 9 in the primary category and 65 as secondary
stations. Primary stations were located at critical points in
major streams statewide. They will be sampled once per
month, year after year to establish long-term trends in
water quality. Secondary stations were generally located on
lesser streams or on tributaries to large streams, and they
will be sampled monthly for one year out of each
three-year period.
Any monitoring in addition to that at regular primary
and secondary stations will be classified as special studies.
In effect, the monitoring schedule will require full coverage
of the State every three years.
A broader range of analyses will be made on the
fewer samples. Potentially deleterious substances in solu-
tion will be given greater attention and scrutiny.
Non-Point Source Wastes
Pursuant to Section 208 of PL 92-500, the DEQ has
begun the development of an intensive program for dealing
with the statewide impacts of non-point source wastes on
water quality. The EPA recently granted the State $1.2
million to be matched by $400,000 in State monies to fund
six program elements:
Forest practices $ 140,000
Agricultural practices 347,000
Septic tank and vault toilet sludge disposal 100,000
Assessment of non-point source waste im-
pacts 345,000
Coordination of land use planning 50,000
Water quantity-quality management 25,000
Program management (staffing and services) 593,000
Total $1,600,000
The program funding begins with FY 76 and will be
effective through November, 1978.
Oregon designated four areas in the State for local
Section 208 planning efforts. The local Council of Govern-
ments at Portland, Salem, Eugene and Medford are in
charge of these operations.
Status of Water Quality
The quality of Oregon's waters remains good, ade-
quate to serve the recognized beneficial uses where quanti-
ties remain sufficient. Standards are generally met through-
out the State. Statewide water quality monitoring still
shows three major water quality aberations: (1) Seasonal
turbidity increases paralleling peak runoff periods; (2)
seasonal coliform bacterial elevations, also aligned with
runoff intensity; and (3) elevated stream temperatures due
to solar heating on diminished flows. While these three
aberations are not truly violations of water quality stan-
dards, they are undesirable conditions that man may
improve through better land and water use practices. Thus,
it is that these three aberations are the focal points of the
statewide Section 208 planning process.
Flows in the Tualatin River were augmented from
the Scoggin Dam project for the first time in the summer of
1976. Minimum summer flows were increased from essen-
tially zero in the middle sections to a minimum of 250 cfs.
The net result was a stream that met water quality
standards for the first time in many years.
The State's 1975 water quality status report identi-
fied major ammonia waste loads that exerted excessive
dissolved oxygen demands on the Willamette River. These
waste sources have been substantially reduced to the point
of little measurable impact in 1975. Further evaluation
studies of the matter will be conducted during low flow,
1976.
Water Quality Permits
In early 1976, the DEQ developed a fee schedule for
processing water quality permits and conducting the re-
quired compliance inspections. It becomes effective on all
permit renewals after July 1, 1976.
In the 1975 305 (b) Report, the DEQ stated that it
had received 785 applications for NPDES permits; 526 were
issued, and 259 were pending. As of June 1, 1976, the DEQ
had received 795 NPDES applications: 768 have been
issued and 27 are pending. Also, 126 State water quality
permits, out of a current total of 149, have been issued.
Log Handling Policy
In 1975 the DEQ developed a policy for managing log
handling in public waters. Its basic tenets are for easy
let-down devices to minimize wood debris generation at log
dumps and positive methods for log debris collection and
removal from the water. Further, it will restrict the
handling of logs in waters where water quality standards are
not met.
Sewerage Works Construction
In the 1975 report, four communities were listed as
discharging sewage with no treatment. Since then, treatment
A-158
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APPENDIX A
facilities have been placed in operation in Senaca and
Nehalem (North Tillamook County Sanitary Authority).
Cloverdale Sanitary District facilities are under construc-
tion. Facilities for Wheeler will be under construction as
soon as a Step III grant is awarded.
In early 1975, the Unified Sewerage, Agency of
Washington County initiated construction of a 15.0 MGD
advanced waste treatment plant. The Agency's consultant
proposed to complete the project under a Construction
Management Services (CMS) approach. The consultant
projected savings at two million dollars and 9 months in
time over the traditional contracting approach of construc-
tion. As of this time, the project savings are projected to be
the original $2 million plus another $2.5 million.
All savings in time and money were accomplished
within existing grant rules and regulations. It appears CMS
can be a useful tool in sewerage works construction.
A-159
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APPENDIX A
Summary - State of Pennsylvania
Complete copies of the State of
Pennsylvania 305 (b) Report can be
obtained from the State agency listed
below.
Pennsylvania Department of Environ-
mental Resources
Bureau of Water Quality Management
P.O. Box 2063
Harrisburg, PA 17120
A-161
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APPENDIX A
Introduction
This is the second in a series of annual publications
prepared in response to Section 305(b) of PL 92-500
which requires the States to report an annual assessment of
water quality. This report, prepared by the Bureau of Water
Quality Management, Pennsylvania Department of Environ-
mental Resources, provides an opportunity to report both
to Congress and to Pennsylvanians on progress that has
been made in water pollution control and on problems that
remain. This year's report is more comprehensive and
detailed as compared to the initial 1975 report and reflects
an improved data base over last year. Much of the
information again comes from estimates made by staff
members familiar with local areas. This information, cou-
pled with data collected through special surveys, routine
monitoring, and data available from other governmental
agencies gives us the picture presented in the report.
In future years, we expect to have a more precise data
base for report preparation because of information being
developed in the current Comprehensive Water Quality
Management Program (COWAMP) now under way in our
State. The COWAMP program will identify specific water
quality management problems, propose solutions to the
problems and provide for future monitoring.
Pennsylvania has had a sewage pollution control
program since 1905. The State's first comprehensive water
pollution control legislation was enacted in 1937 and is
known as the "Clean Streams Law" This law has been
strengthened by amendments a number of times, the
most recent being in 1970. It provides the State with an
excellent legal framework for managing water quality. Most
of the past emphasis in Pennsylvania's water quality
management program, as well as those of the rest of the
Nation, has been toward elimination of point source
pollution (sewage and industrial waste discharges). How-
ever, pollution from non-point sources, such as storm
runoff, abandoned mine drainage, agricultural and earth
moving operations, and discharges of polluted ground water
has significant adverse impact in some areas of the State.
Much has been accomplished in pollution abatement
in the State and there is a trend of water quality
improvement. There are, however, a number of significant
problems that remain and a need for major resources to
correct these problems.
Summary
Pollution Sources
Water pollution problems in Pennsylvania are attri-
butable to a variety of sources. The sources are considered
in two general categories: Point and non-point sources.
Point sources are those such as sewage discharges, industrial
waste discharges and storm or combined sewer drainage
that are conveyed to a water body in a pipe or channel.
Non-point sources include discharges of polluted ground
water, storm water runoff, drainage from abandoned mines,
and agricultural runoff. In addition to the point and
non-point source pollutants, many of which are chronic in
nature, problems of an acute nature are created by the
addition of substances in the State's waters through spills
and accidents which are most often related to storage or
transport of materials.
The State of Pennsylvania has a total area of
approximately 45,333 square miles. Pollution problems
vary with the population concentration, type of industry or
mineral resources in an area, and very often the geology and
topography of an area. The nearly 12 million people who
live and work in Pennsylvania are not uniformly distributed
over the State and, therefore, the intensity of population-
based pollution problems are not uniformly distributed.
In areas with heavy industrial and population concen-
trations, sewage and industrial wastes are the major
pollution sources. Storm and combined sewer runoff add to
the pollution problems. In western and parts of central
Pennsylvania, drainage from bituminous coal mines
(primarily abandoned mines) creates serious water quality
problems. The same situation exists in the anthracite area
of northeastern Pennsylvania. Approximately 2,000 miles
of major streams in Pennsylvania are adversely affected by
drainage from abandoned coal mines. Figure 1 shows the
magnitude of the mine drainage problem in the State's
major river basins.
Other pollution sources in Pennsylvania include oil
well and refinery operations in northwestern Pennsylvania,
construction and other earth moving operations which have
created serious erosion and sedimentation problems, and a
significant number of power plants scattered throughout
the State which discharge heat — also a potential pollutant.
A description of the State's water pollution control
program can be found in the annual State strategy and
program plan prepared by the Bureau of Water Quality
Management and submitted to the U.S. Environmental Pro-
tection Agency.
Assessment of Water Quality
The success or effectiveness of Pennsylvania's water
quality management program can best be measured by the
improvement in quality of polluted or degraded water and
by the adequacy of protection of good quality waters.
From 1971 through 1975, there was a net increase of 712
miles of State streams showing improvement. In 1975, 152
miles of streams improved, while 37 miles were degraded
for a net gain of 127 miles of streams improved during the
year. The major improvement was 40 miles of the Ohio
River mainstem, which was due to upgrading from primary
to secondary treatment at the Allegheny County Sanitary
Authority and smaller treatment plants along the Ohio
River. A second major improvement occurred in 12 miles of
the Monongahela River (Greene and Fayette Counties) and
A-162
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APPENDIX A
FIGURE 1
TONS OF ACID DISCHARGED PER DAY BY THE
MAJOR RIVER SYSTEMS OF PENNSYLVANIA
LAKE ERIE BASIN
SUSQUEHAHNA
RIVER SASIN
NORTH BRANCH
SUSQUEHANNA
RIVER BASIN
WEST BRANCH
ALIEGHENY-MONONGAHEIA RIVER
BASIN
OHIO
RIVER
BASIN
DELAWARE
RIVER
BASIN
Lewistown
SUSQUEHANNA RIVER BASIN MAIN STEM
ZOO I Harrlsburg
OKAC RIVER OASIN
A-163
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APPENDIX A
was due to mine drainage abatement activities. Shorter
stretches of more than 40 other streams throughout the
State showed improvements due to upgrading or elimina-
tion of waste discharges, mine drainage treatment and
abatement activities, and changes in industrial operations.
A tabulation of stream quality changes (improvement
and degradation for the years 1971 through 1975) is
summarized by major drainage basin below. A detailed
tabulation can be found in Part I of the report.
PENNSYLVANIA STREAM QUALITY
(1971-1975)
Drainage basin
Delaware
Susquehanna
Ohio
Lake Erie
Potomac
Total
Miles of
stream
improved
75
349
460
31
5
920
Miles of
stream
degraded
3
96
84
25
0
208
Net
improvement
72
253
376
6
5
712
further defined as to parameter group responsible for
failure to meet water quality standards. If there are
pollution problems, an indication of the progress toward
correcting the problems is provided. These estimates are the
best available at present.
Summarized below on the drainage basin basis is a
status report on compliance with water quality criteria. On
an overall basis, approximately 80 percent of the State's
major streams comply with water quality criteria. Major
streams are those with stream quality monitoring stations
and those described in the 1917 Pennsylvania Gazetteer of
Streams.
COMPLIANCE WITH WATER
QUALITY CRITERIA
Drainage Miles of Percent of stream miles
basin major streams meeting criteria
Delaware
Susquehanna
Ohio
Lake Erie
Potomac
2,370
6,434
4,841
100
418
72
80
80
90
98
Water quality standards were established for
Pennsylvania's surface waters between 1967 and 1973.
These water quality standards were designed to protect
stream uses that would be possible if there were no
pollution and included specific numerical water quality
criteria to protect these uses. Water quality standards are in
effect for all of the State's waters and are monitored
routinely at 235 locations. We do not have monitoring
stations or survey information on every stream. Part II of
the report includes a meeting water quality criteria and an
identification of the major problems. Major problems are
At the present time, 2,989 miles or approximately 20
percent of major stream miles in Pennsylvania fail to meet
water quality standards. Abandoned mine drainage, either
by itself or in combination with other pollution sources, is
responsible for 75 percent (2,240 miles) of the stream miles
degraded (Figure 2). Bacteria criteria are not included in
water quality assessments due to lack of good data and
experience has shown that due to the uncontrolled nature
of non-point runoff, bacteria criteria are exceeded in most
streams during some portion of the year.
A-164
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APPENDIX A
FIGURE 2
MILES OF STREAMS NOT MEETING WATER QUALITY
STANDARDS AND TYPES OF POLLUTION RESPONSIBLE
1975--TOTAL 2,988 MILES
ORGANIC
749 MILES
(25%)
TOXIC/
INORGANIC2
897 MILES
(30%)
COMBINATION3
1,342 MILES
(45%)
ORGANIC pollution includes municipal and industrial wastes; farmland and urban runoff;
and power generation and construction related pollutants.
TOXIC/INORGANIC poilition includes industrial waste, abandoned mine drainage, and
oil and gas extraction related pollutants.
COMBINATION includes areas that have both ORGANIC and TOXIC/INORGANIC
pollution sources.
A-165
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APPENDIX A
Projecting to 1983, 2,253 miles of major streams in
Pennsylvania will fail to meet established water quality
goals. Mine drainage from abandoned mines, either by itself
or in combination with other pollution sources, will
account for 2,021 miles or 87 percent of the stream miles
which are not expected to meet the established goals.
(FigureS).
It is apparent that progress in attaining the 1983
"fishable-swimmable" goals as set forth in PL 92-500 are
being realized. Improved industrial waste treatment facili-
ties and construction and upgrading of municipal facilities
continues to result in improved water quality conditions.
However, the magnitude of the non-point pollutional
sources, especially abandoned mine acid drainage, will no
doubt prevent the full achievement of the 1983 goals in
Pennsylvania.
FIGURE 3
MILES OF STREAMS WHICH ARE NOT EXPECTED TO MEET
1983 WATER QUALITY STANDARDS AND STREAM MILES
AFFECTED-TOTAL 2,253 MILES
TOXIC/INORGANIC2
1,009 MILES
(45%)
ORGANIC
232 MILES
(10%)
COMBINATION3
1,012 MILES
(45%)
ORGANIC pollution includes municipal and industrial wastes; farmland and urban runoff;
and power generation and construction related pollutants.
TOXIC/INORGANIC pollution includes industrial waste, abandoned mine drainage, and
oil and gas extraction related pollutants.
COMBINATION includes areas that have both ORGANIC and TOXIC/INORGANIC
pollution sources.
A-166
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APPENDIX A
Water Pollution Control Expenditures
Progress in water pollution control is brought about
by investments at the local, State and Federal levels.
Everyone pays for water pollution control through taxes,
sewer bills and the cost of products. The following table
presents some expenditure and pollution abatement needs
that illustrate recent Federal and State government invest-
ments made in grants and abatement projects and some
estimates of remaining needs. Cost figures were not
available for the local share of municipal projects, but most
of the grant funds for sewage treatment plant construction
were made on a 75 percent Federal and 25 percent local
basis. Cost data are not available for industrial investments
at the present time. We expect to have improved estimates
available in the future from the State's COWAMP program.
Estimates of storm water management need a consid-
erable amount of refinement, but represent the best
available data at present.
Supplemental Water Quality Reports
Water Quality Inventory Reports for the Delaware
and Ohio Rivers as prepared by the Delaware River Basin
Commission and Ohio River Valley Water Sanitation
Commission are included in Appendix C of the report.
WATER POLLUTION CONTROL
EXPENDITURES (1971-75) AND NEEDS
(Millions of dollars)
State and federal Estimated pollution
government expenditures abatement needs
Sewage collected
and treatment
Abandoned mine
drainage pollution
and abatement
Industrial pollution
abatement
673
90
(No data
available)
3,185
1,000
(No estimate
available)
Erosion and sediment
control
1.5
(No estimate
available)
Storm water
management
Total
(No data
available)
764.5
9,300
13,507
A-167
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APPENDIX A
Summary - Puerto Rico
Complete copies of the Puerto Rico
305(b) Report can be obtained
from the State agency listed below:
Environmental Quality Board
1550 Ponce de Leon Avenue
Santurce, PR 00910
A-169
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APPENDIX A
Summary
Current Water Quality and Recent Trends
The most important requirement in performing a
water quality analysis is to have water quality data. In order
to adequately evaluate long-term water quality trends, an
extensive record of historical water quality data is essential.
An abundant record of data will produce the information
required to clearly define the changes and trends in the
water quality picture over the years. Unfortunately, this
source of information is lacking in Puerto Rico.
For the surface waters of the island, it was decided to
limit the analysis to the data recently collected as part of
the routine monitoring network of surface waters carried
on by the U.S. Geological Survey. It was felt that these last
two years' worth of data would serve as a good baseline
from which to evaluate progress and trends in future 305
(b) Reports.
The general trends noted in the surface waters over
the last two years indicate that there have been some
improvements in water quality with respect to dissolved
oxygen and coliform bacteria. This is especially true for the
coliform bacteria since the data indicate a greater-than 70
percent improvement in total coliform concentrations from
1974 to 1975. This improvement is attributed to both the
sewering of rural areas and construction of new treatment
facilities, as well as to the addition of adequate chlorination
facilities at the existing plants. The extent of the problem is
still great, however, as 31 of the 55 stations monitored for
total coliforms in 1975 are still in contravention of the
standard.
The analysis of the quality of the coastal waters of
Puerto Rico is based on all the available data. The data
collected as part of the routine monitoring network of
coastal waters carried out by the Puerto Rico Environmen-
tal Quality Board during the last two years will serve as an
indicator of current water quality as well as a baseline for
future reports. In addition to this data, a summary was
made of all existing data prior to 1974. This included all
surveys made at various locations around the island during
the last ten years. This was done to establish a baseline
quality for this report, and it is recommended that in the
future, this data be phased out and replaced with the
routine monitoring data.
The general trends noted in the dissolved oxygen
analysis indicate that in almost all cases where dissolved
oxygen data are available from pre-1974 sources, the
concentration has improved according to 1974-1976 data
for similar locations. It can be seen that the specific
increases in coastal water dissolved oxygen are a direct
result of the increase in the dissolved oxygen of the river
near which the sample was taken.
The existing quality of the coastal waters is good as is
evidenced by the fact that of the 40 routine monitoring
stations for FY 75 only two showed mean valves for
dissolved oxygen at less than the standards.
With respect to coliform bacteria, which is considered
to be a more significant parameter in determining the
recreational uses of the coastal waters, it can be seen that
there is a marked improvement in total coliform concen-
trations between pre-1974 and current sources.
In terms of existing water quality, it should be noted
that there are still coastal waters in violation of the
applicable water quality standard, but these violations
represent a small percentage of the total stations sampled.
The San Juan beachfront represents a key area in the
economic future of Puerto Rico. This high-tourism area has
long had water quality problems related to extremely high
coliform counts, and currently certain beaches still have
warning signs posted. The large percentage of illegal
sanitary sewer connections to storm sewers was the chief
reason for the degraded quality of the waters in this area.
Corrective measures have been taken, and an analysis
comparing the results of the bacteriological surveys of
December 1975 and January 1976 with those of a 1974
EPA survey was made. In addition to samples taken along
the beach, localized samples were taken around each of the
two major outfall pipes in the study area.
This water quality study of Condado Beach indicates
that there has been an improvement of the bacteriological
quality of the discharges of the ourfall since the EPA survey
in 1974. However, there still exist health hazards to those
who would use the area as there are geometric means of
fecal coliform for morning samples exceeding the 200/100
ml standard.
The Condado Lagoon has shown remarkable improve-
ment in water quality, as was presented in last year's report.
Significant decreases in both total and fecal coliform have
been observed since 1971. The current quality of the
lagoon is still satisfactory and it is being used for recrea-
tional purposes. The three stations that are sampled in the
lagoon as part of the routine monitoring network re-affirm
the fact that conditions have improved since 1975 but suf-
ficient data are not available to draw definite conclusions
regarding changes that have occurred since the 1974 sur-
veys.
The results from a report on the water quality in San
Juan Bay is presented as a brief analysis of the dissolved
oxygen trends in this system. Water quality surveys are
available in the system for the summer of 1969, January
1971 and December 1973. It can be seen from these results
that there has been no improvement in the dissolved
oxygen concentration in the San Juan Bay systems over the
years of these studies.
The current waterborne diseases situation in Puerto
Rico is relatively unchanged from what was reported last
year. All surface waters of Puerto Rico must still be
assumed to harbor Shistosoma mansoni, the parasite caus-
ing the disease Schistosomiasis. Incidence of the disease is
about 14 percent islandwide and ranges up to 27 percent in
the most heavily afflicted areas.
A-170
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APPENDIX A
Water Quality Goals and Control Programs
The situation in Puerto Rico with respect to water
quality goals is basically unchanged since last year's report.
The fundamental problem facing this end is the presence of
the parasitic disease Schistosomiasis. It is felt that the goals
of the Water Pollution Control Act are attainable in Puerto
Rico but whether or not they can be attained by 1983 is
another story. It is felt that after the July 1977 milestone
there will be a better overview in this regard.
Costs and Benefits
The municipal needs were determined to be $603
million (1973 dollars) in the 1974 "Needs" survey. This is
the cost that was presented in last year's report. In order to
update this figure, the total cost estimate presented in the
most recent priority list was tabulated to be $959.4 million.
This represents the majority of projects scheduled for
construction but is not a complete list since there are
certain projects for which no cost information has been
compiled to date.
At this time there is no information available con-
cerning the costs involved with applying water quality
management techniques to industrial or non-point sources
of pollution.
The benefits to be derived by providing secondary
treatment at regional plants employing long ocean outfalls
are still questioned. It seems clear that budgetary consider-
ations will exercise a strong influence on future planning of
treatment levels in Puerto Rico.
Non-Point Sources of Pollution
Though no new data have been generated, and very
few observations have been carried out in this respect, it
seems clear that the non-point pollution situation in Puerto
Rico has changed very little since last year. The major
non-point sources are attributed to rural populations
discharging raw wastes to receiving waters, siltation runoff,
pesticide contamination and agricultural runoff.
A-171
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APPENDIX A
Summary - State of Rhode Island
Complete copies of the State of
Rhode Island 305(b) Report can be
obtained from the State agency listed
below:
Division of Water Pollution Control
Rhode Island Department of Health
State Office Building
Davis Street
Providence, Rl 02908
A-173
-------
APPENDIX A
Introduction
This report seeks to summarize: (a) Existing water
quality; (b) effect of point sources of discharge; (c) waters
expected to meet water quality criteria for 1977 and 1983,
with an analysis of conditions possibly preventing this
achievement; and (d) costs of achieving the objectives of PL
92-500. In the discussion of water quality, the basin
approach is taken, incorporating basins established for the
303(e) continuing planning process. The report is based on
information contained in the water pollution control plans
for the seven basins for Rhode Island (Blackstone, Moosup,
Moshassuck, Narragansett Bay, Pawcatuck, Pawtuxet, and
Woonasquatucket, as shown in Figure I), the 1975/305(b)
Report, the 1974 Needs Survey, and 1975 Construction
Grant Priority Report. Table I presents a summary by basin
of the status of meeting water quality objectives. More
detailed information can be found in reports listed in the
reference section.
Rhode Island has a combined land and inland water
area of 1,058 square miles. It has a salt water shoreline of
419 miles in length. While Rhode Island is the nation's
second most densely populated State, 70 percent remains
undeveloped. The goa| of the State's Statewide Planning
Program is to retain, through proper land use planning, an
open space at 50 percent of the total land area through
1990.
Rhode Island's economic base has changed signifi-
cantly from the time the textile industry replaced agricul-
ture in the middle 19th century as the major industry. In
recent years, jewelry and machine-tool manufacturing has
replaced the textile industry as the major manufacturing
industries. In 1971, it was estimated that non-manufactur-
ing employment provided more than three-fifths of the jobs
available. From 1965 to 1970, employment in manufactur-
ing declined by 600 jobs while employment in non-
manufacturing service industries increased by 25,000 jobs.
Many rural communities have sought to increase their
tax base by zoning rural areas for industrial use. Yet a
recent survey reported that one-quarter of all industrially-
zoned sites in Rhode Island were characterized by unfavor-
able soil and topographical conditions. One-sixth lacked
public water, three-fifths lacked public sewers, and two-
thirds lacked rail service. It is our intent through the State
land use plan and the issuance of State approvals for treated
waste discharges to discourage or prohibit industrial growth
in rural areas where public sewers are not available,
especially where industries require large amounts of water
and would consequently produce large volumes of waste for
disposal. Recently established industrial parks, provided
with public water and sewerage, are still under-utilized.
Water Quality
In the 305(b) Report for 1975, only those rivers and
major tributaries considered to be in an "impacted area"
(i.e., waters presently in a downgraded condition or in areas
where future growth could have an impact) were con-
sidered. However, to be in conformance with the EPA
reporting system, where all major tributaries are considered
(even in rural areas with water quality now A or B) we
have amended our reporting format. Therefore, a direct
comparison between 1975 and 1976305(b) Reports cannot
be easily made, except for Narragansett Bay and Moosup
River, which have no additions and the Moshassuck and
Woonasquatucket Rivers, which show little change with the
addition of smaller Class B tributaries. This format then
should be taken as setting the baseline for future water
quality improvement.
Rhode Island maintains a monitoring program of
both major surface waters and waste treatment plants.
From Table 1, 64 percent of the major rivers and their
tributaries now meet 1983 goals and 92 percent of
Narragansett Bay acreage is Class SB (suitable for bathing)
or better. Even with the proposed vast expenditure of
funds, only 71 percent of the river miles and 96 percent of
Narragansett Bay will meet the 1983 goals of swimmable
waters. These percentages partly reflect the Health Depart-
ment's policy of classifying areas around outfalls of even
tertiary sewage treatment plants C (SC), unsuitable for
swimming, realizing that such treatment works are not
accident-proof. The public should bear in mind that these
estimates of achievement may themselves be over-
optimistic. Conditions affecting these achievements in-
clude adequate Federal and State funding adherence to
construction schedules, availability of equipment, public
acceptance of project costs and adherence with NEPA
requirements. _
In addition to an extensive surface water quality
monitoring program and waste discharge monitoring pro-
gram, Rhode Island conducts a ground water quality
monitoring program of the major aquifers of the State as
part of the water supply protection program. Rhode
Island's ground waters are of exceptionally high quality
and, with the exception of aesthetic problems in areas with
naturally occurring iron and manganese concentrations,
produce an adequate water supply for many suburban
communities. As deep well injection of wastes is not
permitted in this State, it is expected that ground water
quality will continue to be quite acceptable in quality. An
overall review of ground water in Rhode Island (quality,
yield) will be considered in the Section 208 project in order
to identify existing and potential aquifiers and to develop
future management strategy for aquifer protection.
A-174
-------
APPENDIX A
FIGURE 1
RHODE ISLAND
RIVER BASINS
A.BIackstone
B.Moosup
C.Moshassuck
D. Narragansett
E.Pawcaluck
F. Pawtuxet
ir' G.Woonasquatucket
I -» Vv**" ' /»•»'«•«'•'
- \'T"'--L.A,---
A-175
-------
APPENDIX A
TABLE 1
STATE OF RHODE ISLAND 305(b) WATER QUALITY INVENTORY SUMMARY - APRIL 1976
1
River basin or
drainage
(including main-
stem and major
tributaries)3
2 3
Total Miles now
miles meeting
Class B
(fishable/
swimmable)
or better
4
Miles
expected to
meet Class
B by 7355
5
Miles no w
meeting
State WQ
standards
6
Miles not
meeting
State WQ
standards
7
Water
quality
problems*
8
Point-source
causes of WQ
problems
M=Municipal
l=lndustrial
9
Non-point
source-
caused
problems
1=major
2=minor
3=N/A
Blackstone River
Moosup River
Moshassuck River
Narragansett Bay
Pawcatuck River
Pawtuxet RiverD
Woonasquatucket River
Total river miles
88.8
25.2
17.4
117,764ac
115.0
59.7
22.6
328.7
47.9
25.2
8.2
107,959ac
93.9
28.3
7.9
211.4
53.7
25.2
9.9
112,832ac
102.5
29.8
12.8
233.9
75.5
25.2
14.1
107,959ac
111.0
56.4
19.8
302.0
13.3 5,6
0
3.3 5,6
9,805ac 6
4.0 5,6
3.3 5,6
2.8 5,6
26.7
M,l 2
- -
M 1
M,l 1
M,l unknown
M,l 2
M 1
"Column 7-Water Quality Problems:
1. Harmful substances; 2. Physical modification (suspended solids, temperature, etc.); 3. Eutrophication potential; 4. Salinity, acidity,
alkalinity; 5. Oxygen depletion; 6. High coliform.
aDoes not include Ten Mile River Basin. See Massachusetts River Basin Plan Reports.
bPawtuxet River — Does not include Flat River Reservoir and tributaries thereto (Existing Class A and B).
Lake Management
Eutrophication in public lakes and ponds in the State
are a minor problem in Rhode Island. Those problems
occurring are associated with discharges of treated waste-
waters. Compliance with permits issued under the NPDES
permit system is expected to abate these problems. Prob-
lems of an aesthetic nature are expected to continue in the
many privately-owned, man-made ponds in the State. Due
to development along the shores and tributaries to these
ponds with the associated use of lawn fertilizers and
individual sewage disposal systems, nutrients will continue
to leach into the ponds. Excessive pond weed growth is
presently being attacked by physical removal of the weeds.
A comprehensive management program for privately-
controlled ponds is yet to be developed.
Non-point Sources
The problem of non-point sources of pollution will be
considered in separate inputs into the Section 208 planning
process. For the next two years, emphasis will be placed on
quantification of non-point source problems, while major
emphasis will be placed on abatement of pollution from
point sources. National water pollution abatement strategy
calls for non-point pollution correction in Phase II
(1978-1983), and it is expected that implementation of
needed controls will take place during that time period.
The following tasks have been established as part of
the Section 208 project, relative to non-point sources:
Soils and Surficial Geology
Landfull Sites
(08066S)
(08106S)
A-176
-------
APPENDIX A
Urban Runoff (08136S)
Erosion and Sedimentation (08146)
Marinas (08156S)
Individual Subsurface Disposal Systems (08116S)
Achievement of 1983 Goals
The achievement of water quality criteria adopted in
1973 by the year 1978 is dependent upon (a) availability of
both Federal and State construction grant funds and (b)
early implementation of projects, (c) procedural impound-
ment, and (d) NEPA provisions which delay pollution
abatement projects. To date, both funds and progress in
implementation have been deficient. Procedural impound-
ments have delayed exigent projects. It is expected that not
all waters will meet the established goals set for 1978.
Lack of Federal and State funds have been comple-
mented by a delay through complicated new regulations
and citizen use of the National Environmental Protection
Act of 1969 (NEPA) as a means of delaying projects.
Construction of needed sewage treatment works to abate
pollution brings as its consequences to the community
increased taxes and increased growth. Persons fearful of
these two consequences have found it possible to delay
projects by pressuring EPA to rescind earlier negative
declarations for the need of impact statements and to begin
studies anew, even as late as the day of awarding construc-
tion contracts (Block Island). Thus, where "frivolous and
harassing legal action" is guarded against in PL 92-500,
NEPA provides an opportunity for the very same action
under the guise of considering "all aspects of environmental
impact," regardless of the lack of need for a prolonged
study, it is our opinion that growth should be controlled by
zoning what has been adopted in most communities rather
than controlling utility expansion. By delaying projects in a
period of skyrocketing construction costs, the project soon
exceeds the funds appropriated and the project is stalled
until additional financing can be found.
On 12 January 1976, the State of Rhode Island
responded to the Staff Draft Report on Impacts of PL
92-500, prepared by the National Commission on Water
Quality. The draft report concluded that nationwide the
economic impact of PL 92-500 on industry would be
minimal, affecting only "marginal" industries and busi-
nesses. However, by using information developed by Rhode
Island's Department of Economic Development, it was
pointed out that much of the industry in Rhode Island met
the definition of marginal industry and the resulting job
loss due to plant closings which could not meet the goals of
the EPA program would be devastating to Rhode Island.
Table 2 presents a summary of the estimated costs in
meeting the goals of PL 92-500 in Rhode Island. It is
obvious that the funds appropriated by the Federal
government, at present rates, can in no way meet the 75
percent Federal share of the cost, even where correction of
ruban runoff problems (Category VI) is not included.
Table 3 presents recently-developed cost estimates for
upgrading the lower Pawtuxet River from an "E" classifica-
tion at its lower reaches to either "D" or "C" by 1983.
Discussions are now underway with respective communities
and industries concerning upgrading this waterway. The
cost estimates serve as examples of the magnitude of
expenditures required to achieve even realistic goals. It is
becoming apparent that to reach higher water quality, the
costs become enormous and the benefits realized are of
questionable value when compared to the costs of achieving
them.
In the EPA Program Guidance Memorandum-61,
dated 16 December 1975, John T. Rhett, Deputy Assistant
Administrator for Water Program Operations (WH-546),set
forth EPA policy which deemphasized the use of construc-
tion grant funds for storm water discharge pollution
abatement unless cost effective: "...in many cases the
benefits obtained by construction of treatment works for
(reducing pollution from separate storm water discharges)
will be small compared with the costs and other techniques
of control and prevention will be more cost-effective. The
policy of the Agency is, therefore, that construction grants
shall not be used for construction of treatment works to
control pollution from separate discharges of storm water
except under unusual conditions where the project clearly
has been demonstrated to meet planning requirements and
criteria described...for combined sewer overflows."
It is apparent that rethinking of national goals is
required, even if an inflationary economy is controlled, to
reach objectives in line with resources.
A-177
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APPENDIX A
TABLE 2
ESTIMATE OF COSTS FOR MEETING 1983 WATER POLLUTION
CONTROL GOALS, RHODE ISLAND (3)-1974
Basin I
Blackstone River 15.9
Moshassuck River
and
Woonasquatucket River 18.74
Narragansett Bay 30.8
Pawcatuck River 2.9
Pawtuxet River —
Total 68.3
Millions of 1973 dollars
II IMA 1MB IVA
_ 37.0
2.37 - 22.95
2.8 0.7 0.5 91.2
0.2 - - 3.7
27.2* 0.4 - 37.7
30.2 3.5 0.5 192.7
IVB
15.1
51.1
46.8
2.1
17.1
133.7
V Subtotal
68.0
46.58 141.60
40.4 213.0
8.9
0.15 83.1
86.9 515.8
VI
95.7
218.9
308.9
18.7
284.7
927.3
Total
163.7
360.5
521.9
27.6
367.8
1 ,443.0
*See Table 3 for latest costs on cleanup of Pawtuxet River.
l=Cost for secondary treatment (BPT).
M=Needed additional treatment (WQL).
IIIA= Infiltration-inflow correction.
MIB=Replacement or rehabilitation of wastewater collection systems.
IVA=New collector sewer systems.
IVB=New interceptor sewers.
V=Correction of combined sewer overflows.
VNTreatment and/or control of stormwater.
TABLE 3
CAPITAL AND O & M COSTS FOR SEWAGE TREATMENT FACILITIES
FOR THE PAWTUXET RIVER-1976 COSTS ADJUSTED TO ENR 2400
AND RECENT RHODE ISLAND CONSTRUCTION GRANTS
Treatment
plant
Warwick
West Warwick
Cranston
Total
Average
Daily
Flow
MGD
5
7.5
23
Treatment required
to attain Class "D"*
Capital costs
$ 7,000
8,900
25,400
$41,300
,000
,000
,000
,000
Annual
$
1,
$1,
O&
370,
460,
150,
980,
M costs
000
000
000
000
Treatment required
to attain Class "C"**
Capital costs
$ 8,
10,
28,
$47,
200,
700,
700,
600,
000
000
000
000
Annual 0 & M costs
$ 410
520
1,260
$2,190
,000
,000
,000
,000
*Conventional secondary treatment with increased aeration and settling capacity to provide some nitrification.
'Two-stage biological nitrification.
A-178
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APPENDIX A
Summary - State of South Carolina
Complete copies of the State of South
Carolina 305(b) Report can be
obtained from the State agency listed
below:
Department of Health and Environ-
mental Control
J. Marion Sims Building
1600 Bull St.
Columbia, SC 29201
A-179
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APPENDIX A
Introduction
South Carolina is blessed with an abundance of fresh
water from the eastern slopes of the Appalachian Moun-
tains to the Atlantic Ocean. It is further blessed with an
abundance of coastline with a wide costal plain accompa-
nied by ecologically sensitive marshland. It has been the
policy of the State of South Carolina to protect these
resources for the benefit of the people of South Carolina
and the nation.
The South Carolina Department of Health and
Environmental Control (DHEC) has classified streams in the
northwestern portion of the State according to the highest
fresh water classification, Class AA, to protect these waters
for trout survival. All of the major lakes and reservoirs have
been classified Class A to protect these waters for
recreational use. Many of the streams in the State also are
classified Class A for recreation. All of the remaining fresh
water streams have been classified for multipurpose use,
Class B, requiring quality suitable for domestic water
supplies after treatment. Those areas along the coast
suitable for shellfish have been classified in the highest salt
water classification, Class SA, designed to protect those
waters for shellfish gathering. The remaining coastal waters
are classified, Class SB and Class SC, for multipurpose use.
One of the goals of the Federal Water Pollution
Control Act Amendments of 1972 is "water quality which
provides for the protection and propagation of fish,
shellfish, and wildlife and provides for recreation in and on
the water be achieved by July 1, 1983; (Section 101 (a)
(2)). The State streams classified as outlined above com-
pares favorably with the National goals. Assuming adequate
Federal funding, timely guidelines by the U.S. Environmen-
tal Protection Agency, and co-implementation of the Act
by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the
State, water quality to meet the stated goals should be
realized. Data presented in Chapter I of the report will
address the State's current water quality level with regard
to this 1983 goal, "swimmable, fishable" waters. This
analysis is based upon the State's Class A and Class SA
standards.
At the time of this report, South Carolina is reviewing
its Water Quality Standards. Any revisions that come as a
result of the review process should bring the State's water
quality standards closer to the 1983 goal. The review is
tentatively projected to be complete by the end of 1976.
This report, designed to inform the U.S. Congress and
the public in general, will at times address subjects on a
statewide basis and at other times will address subjects on a
basinwide basis. The State of South Carolina is presently
developing Basin Plans [Section 303(e) FWPCAA 72].
There are four basins in the State; the Santee-Cooper Basin,
the Savannah Basin, the Edisto-Combahee Basin, and the
Pee Dee Basin. Completion of these Basin Plans will provide
a detailed analysis of each of these four basins sub-divided
into sub-basins. Basin Plans analyze a variety of subjects
such as water quality, costs of providing adequate waste-
water treatment, population, non-point source pollution,
the degree of treatment necessary to maintain water
quality, and others. These Basin Plans, however, have not
been completed. Of the four basins, the Santee-Cooper
Basin Plan and Edisto-Combahee Basin Plan are complete.
The water quality assessment portion of the Savannah and
Pee Dee Basin Plans, have been completed during Septem-
ber, 1975, provides water quality information for those
basins. Basin analyses are presented in Chapter I of the
report.
Summary
Current Water Quality
The conditions of the waters of the State of South
Carolina were reviewed using a combination of biological
data and stream water quality data. Generally, the waters
were of good to moderately good quality, in most cases
meeting the present standards. It was seen that currently 75
percent of the State's waters meet the "swimmable, fishable"
goal. An examination by basin of the "swimmable, fish-
able" goal showed the percentages of waters meeting the
goal ranged from 87 percent to 62 percent.
Control Program
Various State programs cover a wide range of
activities in pollution control and management. Construc-
tion grant projects for municipal facilities are actively being
processed without compromising their quality. Facilities
Plans (Section 201 of PL 92-500) have been approved for
six metropolitan areas. In the field of industrial control,
1975 was a metamorphosis year with emphasis shifting
from NPDES permit issuance to permit enforcement. State
construction permit issuance increased, reflecting the up
grading of treatment plants and the effectiveness of the
NPDES permits. It is projected that all NPDES permits will
be issued by the end of 1976.
Under Section 401 (PL 92-500), a total of 569 State
Water Quality Certifications were issued by the DHEC
during 1974-75 to applicants for Federal permits or
licenses.
Section 208 Areawide Planning continued with the
approval of their work plans projected for late April of
1976. A brief description of each Section 208 area is in-
cluded. An analysis of the Fiscal Year 1976 Program Plan
for South Carolina showed that many major dischargers are
currently meeting 1977 standards.
Special programs such as oil spill prevention and fish
kill investigation are all contributing to the control of
potential pollution problems. Shellfish monitoring along
South Carolina's coast checks areas which are safe for
shellfishing and prohibits the taking of shellfish from areas
potentially hazardousjto public health.
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APPENDIX A
Costs and Benefits
Costs given were taken from the 1974 "Needs
Survey". These costs were broken into five categories and
estimates of each were made. No updates of the 1974 sur-
vey have been made.
The benefits of water pollution control were
discussed very generally. Statewide, many programs are too
recent to show definite water quality benefits.
Non-point Sources
Because of their very nature, non-point sources have
not had the recognition, attention, or evaluation that point
sources have received. In the Santee-Cooper basin, non-
point problems were prevalent around urban areas, and to
some degree throughout the basin. The Edisto basin also
showed problems prevalent near urban areas and some
degree basinwide. Non-point sources were not widespread
in the Savannah basin, being mostly confined to urban
areas. In the Pee Dee basin the more severe and numerous
problems occurred around urban areas and less severe
problems in rural areas. Within these problem areas in each
basin, the DHEC will conduct surveys to locate and identify
the type and volume of the non-point source effluents.
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APPENDIX A
Summary - State of Tennessee
Complete copies of the State of
Tennessee 305(b) Report can be
obtained from the State agency listed
below:
Tennessee Division of Water Quality
Control
Department of Public Health
621 Cordell Hull Building
Nashville, TN 37219
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APPENDIX A
Introduction
The organization of this report is based on the 13
hydrologic basins as described in Tennessee's Continuing
Planning Process pursuant to Section 303(e) of the Federal
Water Pollution Control Act. These are described again in
this report. Unfortunately, not all of the 303(e) basin plans
have been completed, but all are underway and all available
information is used.
An overview of water pollution problems in Tennes-
see indicates that, in general, the quality of waters in the
State is very good. There are no gross pollution problems
encompassing lengthy segments of streams. Rather, most of
the pollution is confined to short segments of streams and
is the result of one or two point source discharges. The
main areas which suffer pollution from multiple dischargers
are the Chattanooga area, the Upper Holston River in the
Kingsport area and to some extent, the areas associated
with Nashville, Knoxville and Memphis.
Point source pollution in Tennessee results from the
discharge of domestic sewage from such sources as munici-
palities, schools, hospitals and shopping centers and from
the discharge of industrial waste from such sources as
chemical plants, paper mills and metal plating companies.
Pollution resulting from agricultural activities is not
believed to be a major problem. It is currently being
investigated through basin planning efforts and through
special monitoring related to feedlots. Agricultural activities
which are known to affect water quality in Tennessee are
confined feeding operations, plowing areas subject to
erosion, use of chemicals (i.e., fertilizers, herbicides and
pesticides), some watershed projects and some drainage
projects.
There is a considerable amount of surface mining
activity in Tennessee, some of which has a very detrimental
affect on water quality. Most of these problem areas are
located in the Upper Cumberland River Basin and in the
Clinch River Basin and are the result of surface mining for
coal in mountainous areas. Because of the energy problems
which currently exist, there is likely to be an increase in
strip mining for coal with an ensuing increase in water
quality problems and in environmental degradation. Strong
laws and an expanded program in this area will be necessary
to prevent pollution and maintain water quality. Another
energy related matter that needs careful and increasing
attention is that of nuclear power plants. Water quality may
be threatened by both thermal discharges and accidental
loss of radioactive materials. State regulatory agencies, as
yet, have been given little control or credited with having
much expertise relative to this rapidly expanding industry.
Eutrophication problems are not extensive but some
problems do exist in reservoirs receiving a heavy load of
nutrients, when the reservoir has a long retention time.
A mixture of point source pollution and non-point
pollution problems often occur in and around heavily
populated areas as a result of spills followed by storm
run-off, improperly designated or placed septic tank sys-
tems and construction projects.
Although the 305(b) Report is expected to deal
mostly with the problems, some positive points should be
emphasized. Tennessee is blessed with an abundance of
natural resources ranging from its mountains, forests and
fast flowing streams in the east to its fertile croplands and
low-lying wetlands in the west. Tennesseans have long
valued clean water and partly as a result of superior water
quality, there has developed a large recreation-based indus-
try in Tennessee. One objective of the recreation industry is
to protect and maintain high water quality. The industry
has played a very important part in supporting the Division
of Water Quality Control during its 30 years of existence
and has aided in getting enacted Tennessee's present Water
Quality Control Act which was signed into Law in 1971
and is undoubtedly one of the strongest in the United
States.
The Tennessee Act, in conjunction iwht the Federal
Water Pollution Control Act, should ensure the mainten-
ance and improvement of water quality. Unfortunately, the
implementation of the Federal Act has had a negative
impact on the State program by increasing paperwork,
complicating interagency decision-making, and causing
needless duplication of. effort. Some unnecessary delays
have been experienced, especially with regard to the
federally funded municipal construction grant program. It
is hoped and expected that this negative impact is tempor-
ary and that the State and Federal Acts will soon
complement each other.
One obvious problem in the preparation of the 305
(b) Report is the requirement that it be prepared and
submitted on an annual basis. However, updates and
revisions to the basin plans are required on two-year
intervals. Although basin planning is an on-going process,
substantial changes in the status of particular basin plans
may not be obvious on an annual basis, and therefore may
reflect little change when viewed in this report.
Summary
Basins are summarized in the same sequence as
corresponds to their priority rank which was determined
through Tennessee's basin ranking system.
Lower Tennessee
Within the Lower Tennessee River basin lies the City
of Chattanooga, one of the four major metropolitan areas
in Tennessee. Due to high population density and industrial
development, many water quality problems exist in this
area of the basin. There are also several other areas of either
high population or industrial development in the basin
which have significant water quality degradation. Only
about a third of the municipal treatment systems in the
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basin are meeting effluent standards.
There are currently 48 segments designated in the
basin. In 14 segments, standards are being met. In 14
segments, there are no specific delaying factors to prevent
meeting the 1977 goal. In 15 segments, delaying factors
exist but the 1983 goal could possibly be met. In 5
segments, it is believed to be impossible to meet the 1983
goal due to the complexity of the pollution problems (see
Table!).
Holston
APPENDIX A
Of the 21 municipal treatment systems in the basin, 8
are presently not meeting secondary treatment standards,
and 4 have only primary treatment.
There are currently 72 segments designated in the
basin. In 24 segments, standards are being met. In 6
segments, there are no specific delaying factors to prevent
meeting the 1977 goal. In 36 segments, delaying factors
exist but the 1983 goal could possibly be met. In 6
segments, it is probably impossible to meet the 1983 goal
due to the complexity of the problems.
Lower Cumberland
Within the Holston basin is the Tri-Cities area of
Kingsport, Johnson City, and Bristol which is a major
industrial area with many complex pollution problems. The
most extensive water quality degradation in the basin exists
in the immediate area of Kingsport. Stream segments
classified for fish and aquatic life in this area frequently
experience conditions of low dissolved oxygen, extremes in
pH, excessive concentrations of toxic compounds, high
concentrations of solids, and extreme temperature varia-
tion.
TABLE 1
Within the Lower Cumberland basin lies the Nashville
metropolitan area. The city is located on the main stem of
the Cumberland River, but most of the pollution problems
are associated with tributaries in the densely populated and
heavily industrialized sectors rather than in the main stem
of the river.
The most extensive water quality degradation in this
basin is in the Stones River below J. Percy Priest Dam and
SUMMARY - GOALS OF THE ACT
Basin
Lower Tennessee
Holston
Lower Cumberland
Clinch
Upper Tennessee
Memphis area
French Broad
Duck
Obion-Forked Deer
Tenn. River-Western Valley
Upper Cumberland
Elk
Hatchie
No. segments
meeting
standards
14
24
64
30
20
10
34
20
10
17
33
19
5
1977 goal
possible
14
6
1
1
5
2
5
5
1
-
1
4
1
1983 goal
possible
15
36
8
30
13
28
14
12
46
17
20
7
12
1983 goal Total
cannot be segments
met designated
5 48
6 72
8 81
61
5 43
7 47
53
37
57
34
7 61
30
18
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in the Stones River tributaries near the City of Murfrees-
boro. Violations of water quality standards in this area have
included the parameters of dissolved oxygen, solids, fecal
coliform, temperature and toxic materials.
The Harpeth River and its tributaries have some water
quality problems, but overall, some of the highest water
quality in the basin is found here. Great effort will be
necessary to protect the waters of the Harpeth because of
the rapidly increasing population within this area.
Clinch
There are relatively few industrial and municipal
sources of pollution within this basin. The most significant
are associated with the Cities of Harriman, Oak Ridge,
Crossville and Kingston, and the industries of Mead
Corporation and the Atomic Energy Commission. The
greatest cause of degradation to water quality in the
watershed is related to surface mining activity. Tennessee
has a surface mining law which should prevent, to some
extent, further degradation by currently operating mines.
Existing areas that were stripped and not properly re-
claimed will continue to cause problems for many years
unless a program is initiated to reclaim the damaged areas.
There is presently no indication that the State will
undertake such a program. There is much high quality
water remaining in this basin, and the need for its
preservation is great.
Upper Tennessee
Within the Upper Tennessee basin lies the City of
Knoxville, one of the four major metropolitan areas in
Tennessee. Due to the high population density and many
major industries, there are many water quality problems in
the Knoxville area. Outside of this area, water quality in the
basin is generally good. The most significant problems
related to municipalities are associated with the Cities of
Knoxville, Spring City, Sweetwater, Alcoa, Maryville, Madi-
sonville and Rockwood, while the most significant prob-
lems related to industries are associated with dyeing and
metal processing.
The main stem of the Tennessee River is considered
to be in violation of dissolved oxygen standards from time
to time throughout the summer months for some 122
stream miles. This problem is not solely due to discharges;
it is believed to be the result of Tennessee Valley Authority
impoundments and the water release practices of the
agency.
There are 17 municipal systems in the basin. Of these,
5 systems are presently not meeting the secondary treat-
ment requirements, and 2 systems have only primary
treatment. Of the total systems, 12 need to upgrade
treatment to secondary or tertiary to meet water quality
standards.
Memphis Area
The Memphis Area basin has the largest population
density of any basin in Tennessee. This causes no great
water quality problem to the Mississippi River, the basin's
major stream, but does cause intense water quality prob-
lems within tributary streams that flow through the City of
Memphis. The Loosahatchie River, Wolf River, Nonconnah
Creek and their tributaries are polluted by sewage and
industrial waste near the City of Memphis. Many of these
streams have had recurring fish kills. Two large treatment
plants are under construction and several large interceptors
are under construction or completed. Once completed,
these projects should improve water quality immensely in
this basin. Due to the complexity of the problems in this
area, an area-wide management plan (PL 92-500, Section
208) is being prepared and will be necessary to reveal the
solutions to many non-point source and land use problems.
French Broad
This basin does not contain any complex problem
areas but does contain many problems as a result of single
point sources. Three major streams in the basin do not meet
stream standards due to polluted stream flow from North
Carolina, these being the French Broad, the Nolichucky,
and the Pigeon. This interestate problem has existed for
many years and it is hoped that the Federal Water Pollution
Control Act (PL 92-500) will bring about abatement in as
short a time as possible.
Municipalities currently causing pollution in this
basin include Newport, Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, Jones-
boro and Erwin. There are 41 industries which have
discharges while only 15 are considered as having adequate
treatment. Many different types of industry are repre-
sented, some with wastewater very difficult to treat. In the
Gatlinburg-Great Smoky Mountain National Park area,
sedimentation has been a problem as a result of construc-
tion of housing developments on steep mountain slopes.
This has damaged some small streams where the need for
preservation of pure water is very great. Tennessee does not
presently have adequate means to control this kind of
non-point source.
Duck River
In general, the Duck River basin has good water
quality and most of the streams are classified and support
aquatic life and recreation. Localized water quality prob-
lems do exist in the basin. Seven municipalities and seven
industries have inadequate treatment and are impairing
stream usage.
Most of the industrial waste discharges are associated
with the phosphate industry. This industry accounts for 87
percent of the total industrial wastewater discharged in the
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APPENDIX A
basin. Problems associated with surface mining include ore
processing and production of phosphate chemicals. Many of
the problems have occurred because of accidental spills; on
several occasions these have caused fish kills. These ac-
cidents are preventable and precautionary measures are now
being required by the State.
Orbion — Forked Deer
Since most of the land in this basin is devoted to
agriculture, most water quality problems are related either
directly or indirectly to agriculture. Pollution problems are
caused by non-point source runoff from cropland of silt,
fertilizers, pesticides and herbicides.
A major cause of water quality degradation in the
basin is drainage projects, drainage of natural wetlands, and
channelization of streams. Most of the agriculturally related
problems are tied closely to Federal programs or are under
Federal controls. The State does not now have adequate
means to deal with water quality degradation caused by
agriculture.
Many of the municipalities in the basin use the lagoon
method of treatment for wastewater. This method will not,
in most cases, meet the requirements of PL 92-500.
However, it may, with certain modifications, be the best
method of treatment in this part of Tennessee.
Tennessee River/Western Valley
The Western Valley of the Tennessee River divides
the flat agricultural land of West Tennessee and the more
hilly lands of Middle Tennessee. Tributaries to the west are
thus affected more by farming activity while those to the
east are more affected by industry.
Probably the most significant problem in the basin is
the remaining high concentration of mercury in the
mainstem of the river. Although the source of the mercury,
which was discharged by the Diamond Shamrock Company
in Alabama, was detected and stopped in 1970, the metal is
still found at high levels in sediments and in fish flesh.
Mercury levels are closely monitored by the State and the
Tennessee Valley Authority, but no estimate can be made
regarding how long levels will remain high.
Most of the basin waters meet the goal of fishable,
swimmable waters specified by the Federal Act.
Upper Cumberland
This basin lies in the Cumberland Mountain region
and has few problems related to dense population or
industry. Water quality is excellent except in those areas
which have been strip mined for coal. Surface mining for
coal has caused many problems including degraded water
quality. Tennessee now has an Act which provides for
regulation of surface mining and has intensified regulatory
activity in this field. It should be noted, however, that past
mining, where reclamation was not adequate, continues to
cause pollution in the waters of the basin and no method
currently exists to deal with this situation. In fact, most of
the early mining companies were small and many no longer
exist; also, many of the original land owners are gone,
leaving State or Federal regulatory agencies with the
problem of placing responsibility for reclamation and
pollution abatement.
Elk River
In general, the water quality of this basin is very
good. Most of the streams are classified and used for all
reasonable uses, i.e., they meet the goals of fishable,
swimmable waters. Several localized problems do exist that
are causing impairment of stream uses in the tributaries
involved. Three municipalities and one industry are creating
pollution problems through inadequately treated waste-
water discharges.
There is relatively little industrialization in this basin.
The largest industrial discharger, by volume of waste, is the
Arnold Engineering Development Center, a Federal facility
which accounts for approximately 94 percent of the total
industrial wastewater discharged in the basin.
Hatchie River
The Hatchie basin lies in rural West Tennessee and
has, by far, the highest quality water of the West Tennessee
basins. The existing problems are about the same as those
described for the Obion-Forked Deer, i.e., they relate
primarily to agriculture.
The Hatchie River has been designated as a State
scenic river and preservation of its pure waters is a high
priority. Except for high levels of silt, most of the waters in
the basin meet the goals of fishable, swimmable waters. The
State has not classified most of the streams for swimming
because of the muddy character of the water.
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APPENDIX A
Summary - State of Texas
Complete copies of the State of Texas
305(b) Report can be obtained from
the State agency listed below:
Texas Water Quality Board
Administrative Operations Division
P.O. Box 13246, Capitol Station
Austin, TX 78711
A-189
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APPENDIX A
The State of Texas did not provide a short summary 1973 1976
to its 305(b) Report, but provided the following data Standards** Standards***
summary sheet.
No. of No. of
Water use deemed suitable segments % segments %
Statewide Summary Sheet
Contact recreation 183 63.5 221 74.4
1. Total number of dischargers in State — 3,81 7.
a. Total municipal dischargers-1,922. Non-contact recreation 280 97.2 295 99.3
b. Total industrial dischargers — 1,452.
c. Other dischargers - 443. Propagation of fish and 282 97.9 291 98
2. Number of permanent instream sampling stations - w;|H|jfe
618*
3. Projected cost of municipal facility - Domestic raw water 161 55.9 173 58 2
$2,982,150,328. supp|y
4. Projected cost of industrial facility —
$3,315,434,206.
5. Projected total cost to meet 1983 goal (less non-point 'Sampling stations for other waters not located within a specific
sources - $6,297,584, 534. segment equals 116.
6. Gross comparison of water quality trends:
**1973 standards based on 288 segments.
***1976 standards based on 297 segments.
A-190
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APPENDIX A
Summary - Trust Territory
of The Pacific Islands
CompJete copies of the Trust
Territory of the Pacific Islands 305
(b) Report can be obtained from the
State agency listed below:
Division of Environmental Health
Department of Health Services
Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands
Saipan, Mariana Islands 96950
A-191
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APPENDIX A
Summary
Water pollution from municipal sources results in
water quality below existing Trust Territory standards in
most district centers in the Trust Territory and remains a
major public health problem.
Parasitic protozoans and worms, hepatitis and a
variety of waterborne or water-associated bacterial and viral
diseases are endemic to the eastern and western districts of
the Trust Territory and frequently reach epidemic propor-
tions.
Construction of wastewater collection and/or treat-
ment facilities remains a high-priority program in all district
centers and in certain population dense sub-district centers.
Districts with completed wastewater treatment or sewer
systems face the problem of funding for individual house
hookups and necessary secondary collection lines. This
ongoing problem has been partially resolved by recent
notification from the U.S. Department of Housing and
Urban Development (HUD) that the Trust Territory has
qualified for Block Grants under Title I of the Community
Development Act of 1974 to finance house-sewer connec-
tions on a 100-percent grant basis. Additionally, the
Farmers Home Administration has indicated that the Trust
Territory qualifies for low interest (1 percent), 10-year
loans, available for construction of flush toilets and other
sanitary facilities. These programs will provide valuable
assistance to low-income families who cannot afford the
outright purchase of proper sanitary facilities or sewer
hookups.
Although these Federal programs will provide needed
assistance in reducing pollution from municipal sources, it
is unlikely that most district center areas will achieve the
1983 goals of the Act. Urbanization, rapid population
growth, substandard housing, improper solid waste manage-
ment practices, wastewater treatment plant operation and
maintenance problems and non-point sources will preclude
the Trust Territory from the "fishable" and "swimmable"
goals of the Act.
Bacteriological water quality data based upon
monthly sampling at defined lagoon monitoring stations has
indicated relatively constant patterns of nearshore pollution
in several district centers. These patterns have, with few
exceptions, remained unchanged for the past three years.
Baseline water current and underwater ecological
surveys were conducted during the past year at proposed
outfall sites in three districts and in one sub-district. These
surveys have provided sound guidelines as to optimum
placement of outfalls and diffusers, with respect to public
health and ecological concerns, and will also provide a data
base for evaluating the impact of treated wastewater
effluent in tropical marine environments.
Operation and maintenance problems at existing
wastewater treatment plants, lack of trained treatment
plant operators and overall cost-effectiveness dictate the
need for a close examination of alternative treatment
methods in line with available resources and technology and
conforming to the definition of "best practicable waste
treatment technology".
Research is needed on low-cost oxidation and
stabilization ponds which may offer an efficient and
cost-effective means of wastewater treatment adaptable to
many small islands and rural population centers. The
Territory's equatorial solar radiation, lack of seasonal
climatic extremes, temperatures of about 82°F, and the
prevailing tradewinds should a priori be ideal for proper
waste stabilization in simple, non-mechanical oxidation or
stabilization ponds. Provided with sufficient research and
proper management guidelines, coastal mangrove swamps,
which are abundant around most high islands, could serve
as natural sewage stabilization basins. The current scientific
literature indicates that mangrove swamps may well be
effective treatment areas and nutrient sinks for tropical
coastal environments.
Oil population incidents in district center ports
continued on the decline for the past year with few
significant spills reported. Offshore oil spills or bilge
pumping continue to occur by vessels of unknown registry.
Collectively, these events have reduced the recreational
value and jeopardized valuable marine habitat areas on the
islands of Saipan, Tinian and Rota. The United States Coast
Guard, Guam, does not have a sufficient surveillance or
response capability to reduce the frequency of these
offshore events.
Hazardous chemical problems still center in the Truk
Atoll where numerous sunken World War II Japanese cargo
vessels continue to release toxic explosive ordnance chemi-
cals into lagoon waters (in addition to aviation gasoline and
fuel oil). In November 1975, a vessel containing 500-700
tons of ordnance was located within one-half mile of a
major population center. Despite attention given to this
potential pollution and public safety problem in interna-
tional scientific journals, trade magazines and other periodi-
cals, no support has yet been demonstrated to undertake a
study and determination of the ultimate disposition of
these hazardous cargoes.
Recently promulgated "Regulations to Control Earth-
moving and Sedimentation in the TTPI" combined with the
recent revision and expansion of Section 404 of the
FWPCA under the Corps of Engineers have already made
significant progress in reducing pollution from one landfill
dump which is believed to be a significant non-point source.
Unfortunately, growing program administration require-
ments did not permit a survey and estimate of non-point
source problems on a district-wide basis. Non-point sources,
primarily silt and sediments resulting from urban runoff
and poor construction practices, continue to degrade water
quality and reduce the recreational, ecological and fishery
value of many estuaries, reefs and ocean waters. Non-point
source surveys will be the major effort of the district staff
during FY 1977.
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APPENDIX A
Summary - State of Utah
Complete copies of the State of Utah
305(b) Report can be obtained from
the State agency listed below:
Bureau of Water Quality
Environmental Health Services Branch
Division of Health
Department of Social Services
221 State Capitol
Salt Lake City, UT 84114
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APPENDIX A
Description of the Water
Quality of all Navigable
Waters in the State of Utah
The Great Salt Lake
The Great Salt Lake must be included in this
description since it is a navigable water. However, because
of the high mineral content of the waters, it is somewhat
difficult to talk about water quality in the usual sense,
because the average alkalinity of the water ranges up to
280,000 - 290,000 parts-per-million and higher.
Even though the harsh environment restricts the
number of kinds of organisms which exist in the lake, these
few kinds of organisms can reproduce in large numbers. As
an example, the algae Dunaliella alone may exceed 300
million organisms/liter. The Great Salt Lake, therefore,
must be considered biologically as a highly productive body
of water.
Reservoirs and Lakes
The inventory of Utah lakes was published in Utah's
1975 Section 305(b) Report. The data on these lakes were
classified according to acres of lakes and reservoirs per
drainage basin, and were also broken down into trout and
non-trout categories.
It has not been possible, in most instances, to do
extensive water quality analyses on Utah's lakes and
reservoirs. Several different programs are in effect now
which will yield the kind of data necessary to complete the
inventory in more detail.
The 1975 Section 305(b) Report pointed out that
most reservoirs in the State are eutrophic and many of the
high mountain lakes are oligotrophic. Additional data have
been difficult to gather for this year's report but increased
research activity has been initiated.
Rivers and Streams
An analysis of the streams and rivers in Utah was
written in the 1975 Section 305(b) Report for Utah. These
data stated that rivers and streams, with few short reach
exceptions, which were generally located below major
population centers, were meeting 1983 goals. Figure 1
displays the stream stations that are currently exceeding (at
least two different occasions) the recommended water
quality criteria for either BOD and coiiform (total and
fecal) or both. Table 1 enumerates that frequency that
selected stations exceeded the recommended criteria (Class
"C" and Public Water Supply). Dissolved oxygen, pH, BOD,
and coliforms were usually sampled monthly. Arsenic,
cadmium, fluoride, lead, sulfate, total dissolved solids, and
total iron were sampled quarterly.
Analysis of Which Waters
Will Meet 1983 Goals
The Utah Division of Health has assigned the great
Salt Lake a classification of "S" because of its special
properties which do not fit into standard water classifica-
tions. While these waters are protected under water
pollution control requirements, the parameters of the 1983
goals probably do no apply.
The beneficial uses of the Great Salt Lake are
primarily for minerals extraction, industrial usage, and also
for recreation. The "S" classification requires protection
under Utah law " . .as class 'A' waters except for specific
waste discharges ... and shall not interfere with existing
uses of said water."
Most of the natural lakes in the State are located in
high mountainous areas. The quality of these waters is
generally good to excellent. These waters are not being
extensively sampled and analyzed because of their high
quality and because of their generally isolated location;
nearly all are expected to meet 1983 goals.
Most of the reservoirs, however, are euthrophic and
the determination of whether or not each reservoir will
meet 1983 goals must wait for further analysis. Each
areawide Section 208 agency is examining the more
important reservoirs inside its jurisdiction. These analyses,
and many of the interim reports, will be published soon.
Even though these data are not available in time for
incorporation into this draft, some will be available for
inclusion in the 1977 report. The Statewide Section 208
Planning Process will be underway shortly and these
outputs will be available for the 305(b) Report in FY77 or
later.
Analysis of How the
Elimination of Discharges
will Provide for the
Protection of Fish, Wildlife,
Recreation, and 1983
Goal Achievement
Fish and Wildlife
The following analysis will demonstrate how fish and
wildlife are affected by present discharges, and will indicate
how elimination of these discharges will affect game
animals and other forms of wildlife.
Fish in Utah rivers and streams are sometimes
affected by poor water quality. The following data are
based primarily upon trout fisheries because this group of
fish is the primary sport object and because there are more
data available for game fish.
A-194
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APPENDIX A
FIGURE 1
STATE OF UTAH STREAM
STATIONS THAT EXCEED THE
RECOMMENDED WATER
QUALITY CRITERIA FOR BOD
AND COLIFORM
A-195
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APPENDIX A
TABLE 1
FREQUENCY OF SELECTED WATERS THAT EXCEEDED RECOMMENDED
WATER QUALITY CRITERIA
Waterbody
Jordan River
Kanab Creek
Malad River
Ogden River
Pana River
Price River
Provo Rivei
Red Creek
San Juan River
San Rafael River
Santa Clara River
Sevier River
Sevier River
Spanish Fork River
Spring Creek
Strawberry River
Virgin River
Weber River
White River
Bear River
Beaver River
Colorado River
Dirty Devil River
Dolores River
Duchesne River
Escalante River
Fremont River
Green River
STORE!
Number
491-580
491-502
331-158
491 005
000-034
222-H1 1
491-460
555-049
555-026
555-118
331-553
331-534
331-600
555-230
555-055
555-079
555-030
000-214
494-728
494-110
494-694
494-063
494-141
331-543
331-532
555 081
491-001
491-012
491-408
222-M13
222-C07
222-C06
222-W16
222-W15
555-009
555-008
000-44B
000-09A
000-006
000-02A
000-001
494-031
555-045
491-304
555-037
555-044
555-350
555-097
555-302
555-090
555-070
491-202
555-010
555-361
555-310
DO
2
pH
1
5
1
2
2
2
1
1
6
1
2
2
2
2
2
2
1
1
5
1
2
2
7
2
4
2
4
3
4
3
3
1
2
2
1
1
2
3
2
4
2
1
4
1
2
1
4
2
BOD
8
2
2
6
1
2
2
1
1
1
As*
1
1
Cd*
1
1
1
F*
1
Pb*
1
1
1
1
1
SO4*
2
2
1
1
1
1
1
1
2
1
2
~^
1
1
1
1
1
TDS*
1
1
1
2
1
2
1
1
1
1
1
1
2
1
2
1
2
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
T.Fe*
1
1
1
2
1
2
1
1
2
1
1
1
2
1
1
1
2
2
1
1
1
1
1
2
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
2
1
1
1
Coliform
Total
4
1
5
2
2
2
2
1
2
1
1
4
2
2
2
1
1
Fecal
2
3
1
1
1
4
1
2
2
1
1
"Based on one or two samples
A-196
-------
APPENDIX A
Fish populations in the Colorado River and lower
portions of the Green River are limited because of the high
natural salinity and silt loadings. Elimination of discharges
in these areas would not appreciably improve the habitat
for fish.
The Sevier and Bear Rivers have a situation where
salinity and solids, most of which are due to agricultural
practices, restrict or destroy fishery potential along their
drainages. Both of these streams originate in high pristine
watersheds but the fishery potential is destroyed before the
terminus of the rivers. Agricultural Best Management
Practices may extend the reaches of the fishable waters in
these streams but the heavy re-use of these waters will
probably always curtail prime fishing habitat in the lower
sections of these rivers.
The upper reaches of the Virgin River have relatively
good quality water and gamef ish are not restricted because
of water quality. LaVerkin Springs, a highly saline natural
hot spring degrades, the quality of the water below the
point which gamefish can tolerate. Furthermore, there are
endemic and endangered species of non-game fish in the
river that might not be able to compete with game fish if
the quality of these reaches were improved.
The lower sections of the Provo and Jordan Rivers are
the only reaches of rivers in the State where municipal or
industrial discharges are a major factor in determining
whether or not fish can survive. The elimination or the
substantial reduction of these discharges could be effective
in extending the length of fishable waters for only relatively
short distances.
Water Quality in Utah is not generally a restricting
factor for waterfowl. Most waterfowl management areas in
the State are located along the north, east, and southern
shores of the Great Salt Lake. The sources of water for
these marsh areas are not generally of acceptable quality for
fish but support some of the finest waterfowl areas in the
Nation. The elimination of discharges will not measurably
increase protection for Utah's waterfowl.
Upland and big game are not restricted by the
discharges in the State and the elimination of these
discharges will not give any increased protection.
Sufficient data are not available on the habitat and
the relationship of water quality to non-game wildlife to
make statements as to whether or not the elimination of
discharges would give a significantly higher level of protec-
tion to this segment of the wildlife population.
Recreation In and On the Water
The State of Utah agrees with the desirability of
achieving water quality wherever attainable which provides
for recreation in and on the water. However, the State
Division of Health is generally unable to certify that waters
are safe for swimming at all times, for the following
reasons:
(a) There is no convenient method of pre-
determining the influence of bathers on water
quality parameters that indicates whether or
not a segment is swimmable. Consequently,
numerical water quality criteria (such as the
present limit of 1,000 coliform/100 ml) are
difficult to apply to effectively protect swim-
ming as a sement's designated use;
(b) Swimming in some segments, which have swim-
mable water quality when bathers are absent,
may raise the pathogen levels enough to present
health hazards; and
(c) Runoff and wave action caused by storms can
temporarily render waters unsafe for swimming
because of elevated levels of pollution and
turbidity.
Although the Utah State Division of Health has not
designated many waters as swimmable, this does not
prevent people from swimming in high quality waters at
their own discretion.
Partly to be consistent with bordering States, swim-
ming has been designated as a use for three interstate
waters: Flaming Gorge Reservoir, Lake Powell, and Bear
Lake. These designations can be withdrawn if the waters
become unsafe for swimming.
Analysis of How Goals Have or
Will be Achieved by the Act
In its 305(b) Report for 1975, the State of Utah
expressed its opinion of Public Law 92-500, the Federal
Water Pollution Control Act, Amendment of 1972. A
summary of that statement follows:
1. As a result of the passage of Utah's Water
Pollution Control Act of 1953, impetus was
generated for local communities to initiate their
own funding and construction of secondary
treatment facilities.
2. Utah is close to the goal of having all of the
State's sewered population served by secondary
(or higher) treatment facilities.
3. The Federal legislative action, particularly that
of 1972, has in many ways hindered Utah's
municipal treatment program. Federal imposi-
tion of requirements upon State efforts are
often inappropriate to meet local needs.
4. Federal requirements that are imposed upon
the States are not matched by adequate funding
to accomplish these requirements.
5. While the Act stipulates that "It is the policy of
Congress to recognize, preserve and protect the
primary responsibilities of the states," other
features of the Act prevent the administrative
agencies from implementing that intent.
The Division of Health will soon be able to make
specific recommendations as to courses of actions based on
its ongoing programs.
A-197
-------
APPENDIX A
1. The areawide Section 208 planning agencies in
Utah are now ten months into their two-year
planning phase. All of these agencies are doing
extensive monitoring and analysis of the water
quality problems in their areas. The Section
208 agencies are releasing interim reports. While
these documents have not been received by the
Division of Health for comment and evaluation
at this time, certain tentative data will be
available for inclusion in the final copy of the
305(b) Report due at the end of August.
2. The data from the State's primary monitoring
network are being incorporated into the new
continuous planning process that has been
proposed by the new 130-131 regulations. The
recommendations will be included in future
305(b) Reports but will not be ready in the
report for 1976.
3. Utah is applying for $196,800 to complete the
Statewide 208 planning program. The grant
application has been forwarded to the EPA.
The outputs of this planning process will be
reported in future 305(b) Reports.
4. Utah is waiting on the release of the EPA
"Clean Lakes" study. While this report is not
yet available for inclusion in this draft, it is
hoped that it will be received in time for inclu-
sion in the final inventory.
Estimates of Costs and
Benefits of the Act
Environmental Impact of the Act
The impact which the Act will have upon the waters
of the State of Utah cannot yet be clearly determined. The
intent of the Act was to ensure the improved quality of
water; however, at least two prerequisites must be achieved
before this can be accomplished. The States must be given
the authority to implement programs in their area. In
addition, the programs which are required by the Federal
government must be fully funded. If the above prerequisites
are not met, adequate progress toward the goal of the act
cannot be achieved.
Social and Economic Costs of Implementing the
Act
It is certain that substantial costs will be incurred to
implement PL 92-500. It is premature to even attempt to
estimate the dollar costs of implementing the Act. The cost
of building and maintaining municipal facilities and the
supporting sewers, equipment, and attending programs; the
cost of controlling and reducing industrial pollution; the
cost of locating non-point sources of pollution and imple-
menting best management practices and other remedial
measures; the cost of implementing regulatory agencies as
well as continued program costs at the local. State, regional,
and Federal levels, are impossible to determine at this early
stage of the program.
These increased monetary costs will have a severe
impact on many marginal industries, and some of the
changes in agricultural practices will change rural life styles
in many areas.
Social and Economic Benefits from the Act
Until major components of the plan, such as Section
208, have been completed, it will not be possible to
estimate the economic benefits of the Act. When these
outputs become available, it will be possible to make more
accurate projections.
One of the major benefits that will accrue from this
Act, however, will be an increased level of public health. As
levels of treatment are increased and greater numbers of the
population receive adequate waste treatment, the public
will certainly benefit. As the higher level of treatment is
initiated in various stream reaches the possible contact with
pathogens, particularly viruses, will be reduced. This will
allow the pursuit of boating and other water-oriented
recreational activities except swimming with a greatly
reduced probability of contacting disease.
Another projected benefit will possibly be from the
non-point evaluation and correction. As non-point sources
of pollution are sought out, many will be found to be pre-
viously unrecognized point sources. While many of the true
non-point sources in Utah are natural sources, many other
true non-point sources can be corrected. As Section 208
plans and recommendations are finalized, and as the con-
tinuing planning process refines the plans, it will be possible
to more accurately determine benefits. Non-point source
pollution control will reduce siltation and salinity in the
major Utah streams. This will add to the aesthetic appeal of
these streams and could, in some instances, improve con-
ditions particularly for boating and fishing.
A-198
-------
APPENDIX A
Summary - State of Vermont
Complete copies of the State of
Vermont 305(b) Report can be
obtained from the State agency listed
below:
Department of Water Resources
Agency of Environmental Conservation
State Office Building
Montpelier, VT 05602
A-199
-------
APPENDIX A
Introduction
Vermont's pollution control problems are signifi-
cantly different from those of the major urban areas of the
United States. Low-density population centers and the
absence of heavy industrialization has kept the concentra-
tion of contaminants in Vermont waters low. This leaves
Vermont in a position to maintain or achieve very high
water quality standards in the majority of its waters. This
relationship of low concentration of contaminants and high
water quality objective requires somewhat nonconventional
attainment methods. Vermont is continually developing
abatement methodologies using approaches consistent with
Federal regulations but particularly applicable to the
unique situation in which the State finds itself.
1975 Overview of Problems
and Progress in the State
Water Pollution
Control Program
Essentially, all Vermont communities capable of
achieving water pollution abatement by the municipal
approach are substantially along in the engineering planning
process of developing preliminary/final plans and specifica-
tions for the needed wastewater treatment facilities. Un-
treated discharges from small widely scattered municipali-
ties, a number of small industries, and from isolated
individual homes in remote areas still require corrective
action.
Table 1 summarizes the status of the municipal
wastewater pollution control facilities operating at the end
of calendar year 1975. These facilities currently serve
approximately 80 percent of the sewerable population of
the State.
To obtain the high water quality objectives desired by
the citizens of Vermont by eliminating the remaining
pollution sources created by municipalities, construction of
approximately 60 small municipal sewer systems and/or
treatment facilities will be necessary together with the
upgrading of 36 existing facilities. These new facilities are
expected to cost in excess of $125 million. The soil
conditions, geographic configuration, and remoteness of the
majority of these remaining small communities precludes
the regional concepts of wastewater treatment and thus
derive the benefits of the economy of scale. These remote,
substantially residential communities with their very limi-
ted tax base, must bear an extremely high cost for pollution
abatement. It is an essential factor in Vermont's pollution
control program that the cost of pollution abatement be
equalized so that these remote communities can afford the
ever-increasing cost for pollution control facilities.
Vermont intends to continue to construct wastewater
treatment facilities as rapidly as funding and the develop-
ment of planning required to meet Federal regulations will
permit. Priority for constructing and upgrading facilities
still places emphasis on those facilities that will place the
maximum amount of water into full compliance with water
quality standards, with equal priority being given to those
discharges affecting standing bodies of water. First priority
will still be given to pollution sources discharging to
standing bodies of water and to upstream sources necessary
to close gaps in drainage basin water quality attainment
programs.
TABLE 1
SUMMARY OF MUNICIPAL WASTEWATER
POLLUTION CONTROL FACILITIES-1975
Number of operating facilities 67
Number of facilities discharging 65
Number of facilities not discharging (offstream) 2
Number of primary facilities discharging 22
Number of secondary facilities discharging 43
Number of major* primary facilities discharging 14
Number of minor** primary facilities discharging 7
Number of minor primary facilities not discharging 1
Number of major secondary facilities discharging 26
Number of minor secondary facilities discharging 16
Number of major secondary facilities not discharging 1
* Major municipal wastewater pollution control facilities are those
facilities with average daily flows in excess of two hundred fifty
thousand gallons (250,000).
**Minor municipal wastewater pollution control facilities are those
facilities with average daily flow less than two hundred fifty
thousand gallons (250,000).
An update of Vermont's 1974 Facilities Needs Survey
has not been included as a part of this report because of the
unavailability of needs records. A fire in early March 1976
destroyed all available records. It is the intention of the
Environmental Engineering Division of the Agency of
Environmental Conservation to have an update of the
State's facilities needs available by the fall of 1976.
Waste load allocations have not been made a critical
factor in the design of treatment facilities in the past.
Preliminary assessment of future design waste loadings and
receiving waters could develop significant dissolved oxygen
deficits at design treatment loadings reducing the water
quality below present standards. Table 2 lists those re-
ceiving waters (segments) that will require additional water
quality studies to verify these preliminary assimilative
capacity assessments.
It is critical that these needed water quality studies be
conducted at the earliest possible time so that this
information can be used to design new wastewater pollu-
tion control facilities or existing facilities.
Vermont's basic water quality problems are still
A-200
-------
APPENDIX A
concerned with over-enrichment of standing bodies of
water by nutrients — phosphorus and nitrogen — and by
coliform bacteriological organisms in flowing waters. Ver-
mont also has a substantial number of fragile upland
streams where existing high quality water must be protec-
ted from degradation.
In an effort to retard the over-enrichment of standing
bodies of water in Vermont, a major commitment was
made to begin to reduce the amount of phosphorus
entering Vermont waters from point sources. The point
source additions of phosphorus to Vermont waters are
chiefly domestic waste discharges. Whereas certain practices
could help to minimize the effects of non-point source
additions of nutrients to our waterways, it is the point
sources which are most readily controllable.
TABLE 2
RECEIVING WATERS REQUIRING ADDITIONAL
WATER QUALITY SOURCES FOR DETERMINATION
OF FUTURE ASSIMILATIVE CAPACITY CAPABILITIES
River Basin
Segment
Description
Winooski River Main stem
Stevens Branch
Jail Branch
Otter Creek Main stem
Passumpsic River Water Andric
Brook
Walloomsac River Main stem
Hoosic River Main stem
LaPlatte River Main stem
Stevens Brook Main stem
Sacketts Brook Main stem
Below discharge from IBM
to confluence with Lake
Champlain («*I5 miles)
Below discharge from
Barre City to confluence
with Winooski River
Proposed discharge point
of East Barre Wastewater
Treatment Facility to
Stevens Branch
Below Rutland City dis-
charge to confluence with
Lake Champlain C«70
miles)
Below discharge from
proposed Danville Waste-
water Pollution Control
Facility (2.0 miles)
Below discharge from
Bennington to New York
State line
Below Pownal Tannery to
New York State line
Below Hinesburg Waste-
water Treatment Facility
Below City of St. Albans
Below Putney
Recent studies of standing bodies of water in Ver-
mont indicate that either nitrogen or phosphorus is the
limiting nutrient. Phosphorus of the two elements is the
most easily controlled. Based upon recent studies, approxi-
mately 50 percent of the phosphorus in domestic sewage
originates in household detergents. It was determined that
enactment of a ban on phosphorus in household cleaning
products would reduce by about 25 percent the total
amount of phosphorus received by Vermont waters. It is
fully realized by the Department of Water Resources that a
phosphorus detergent ban alone will not be a "cure-all" nor
even an instant cure to all of our eutrophication concerns.
It may take up to 5 or even up to 10 years to show
pronounced and demonstrable effects. This action coupled
with phosphorus removal facilities at selected wastewater
treatment facilities, a program to which the Department is
committed but is also greatly dependent upon the receipt
of Federal funds, should reduce greatly the phosphorus
input from point sources.
In the closing hours of Vermont's 1976 Legislative
Session, several key issues failed to be resolved regarding
the banning of phosphate detergents. Consequently, the bill
to ban phosphate detergents failed to receive approval in
1976.
The magnitude of the contribution of non-point
source nutrients to Vermont waters is not fully known.
Recent studies by the Department of Water Resources and
the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
on Lake Champlain, Lake Memphremagog, Lake Bomoseen,
Lake St. Catherine, as well as a number of smaller lakes
indicate that non-point nutrient contributions are signifi-
cant. Two studies were initiated during 1975 — LaPlatte
River - Shelburne Bay/Stevens Brook - St. Albans Bay
Study and the Sleepers River Project — to begin to assess
non-point source nutrient loadings. Preliminary results
should be available from these studies by late August 1976.
Once available, the data will be used to assess watersheds
with similar land use practices and non-point source
pollution loadings. The Department of Water Resources is
currently negotiating with EPA's Region I for funding to
support a two-year non-point source study of the Black
River Basin in northern Vermont. An initial effort to
identify potentially troublesome non-point source areas
throughout Vermont has been made in conjunction with
the Department's first phase Section 303(e) continuing
water quality management planning process.
The level of coliform bacteriological organisms in
flowing waters occasionally presents itself as a basic water
quality problem in Vermont. Data collected from water-
ways receiving virtually no point source discharges continue
to show levels in excess of the criteria established in the
water quality standards. Non-point runoff originating from
agricultural, forested and urban areas are essentially respon-
sible for these elevated bacteriological levels. Being non-
point in nature, these non-point sources are not currently
economically controllable. Continued sampling will enable
us to further evaluate this problem in Vermont.
A-201
-------
APPENDIX A
The Department plans to have completed by June 30,
1976 all of its first phase Section 303(e) basin planning. At
present, 11 of Vermont's 15 designated water quality
management basins have gone to public hearing for review.
These plans deal primarily with the water quality aspects of
water resources management. As such, each basin plan
inventories the significant waste discharges in a basin: It
identifies water quality standards and areas where certain
parameters fall below standards; assesses future waste
treatment needs; cites effluent limitations and schedules of
compliance contained in temporary pollution permits and
discharge permits; assesses existing controls over residual
wastes; identifies the trophic state of lakes; and describes
the basin monitoring and surveillance programs. These plans
would enable the development of a management program
that will result in achieving and maintaining water quality
which is equal to or better than adopted water quality
standards.
Vermont's water quality monitoring programs con-
tinue to be an integral aspect of the State's water pollution
control program. During 1975, the statewide primary
monitoring network was operated utilizing approximately
60 stations. These stations have for the majority been
located at the mouths of the major waterways flowing from
the State. The remaining stations are located above and
below potential problem areas. Additional network stations
are established following review of data obtained from
basin monitoring surveys or as a result of the review of a
NPDES discharge permit. Three new primary monitoring
stations were established in 1975: (1) Moose River—above
and below Fairbanks-Morse discharge; (2) Passumpsic River
— above and below E.H.V. Weidmann discharge; and (3)
Ompompanoosuc River — just below Copperas Brook
confluence with Ompompanoosuc River. Data collected in
conjunction with Vermont's primary monitoring network
system is currently being stored in the Water Quality file of
the STOrage and RETrieval (STORET) system. The data
will be used to develop water quality trends throughout
Vermont as more data become available. Extreme seasonal
water quality variations in Vermont does not allow for
developing trends with the current available data.
All primary network stations were sampled four to
five times for the following list of chemical analyses:
Dissolved oxygen, temperature, pH, turbidity, conductivity,
chloride, total hardness, calcium hardness, alkalinity,' total
phosphorus, ammonia nitrogen, nitrite-nitrate nitrogen,
total coliform and fecal coliform.
Compliance monitoring represents a major aspect of
Vermont's monitoring program. This program is directed at
verifying effluent quality reported by municipal and indus-
trial wastewater pollution control facilities discharging
under authority of either an NPDES permit or a State
discharge permit. Each facility is visited at least once
annually by the Department for verification of effluent
quality. Self-monitoring reports submitted to the Depart-
ment by permit holders are reviewed on a continuous basis
as they are received. The Environmental Engineering
Division made approximately 500 reconnaissance inspec-
tions during 1975.
As mentioned in the 1974 Water Quality Assessment
305(b) Report, the Department of Water Resources con-
ducted studies of various lakes to determine the trophic
levels and their problems of eutrophication. The lakes
studied were Lake Caspian, Lake Elmore, Lake Eden, Lake
Parker, Lake Bomeseen, Lake St. Catherine and Lake
Hortonia. These studies were completed and comprehensive
reports including recommendations for restorative activities
have been completed. These reports are awaiting publica-
tion at which time they will be made available to the
public.
In the fall of 1975, eleven new lakes were selected for
similar studies. These lakes included Holland Pond, Lake
Salem, Lake Carmi, Lake Fairlee, Lake Groton, Beebe
Pond, Sunrise Lake, Sunset Lake, Echo Lake, Lake Am-
herst and Lake Rescue. At this time both the fall and
winter sampling of these lakes has been completed and the
spring work is commencing. These studies will terminate in
the fall of 1976 and reports similar to those written in 1975
will be completed.
In addition to the lake survey program, the Depart-
ment is responsible for assessing and recording treatment of
aquatic nuisance conditions. These nuisances generally are
related to excessive weed and algae growths in the lakes in
Vermont. The Chief Biologist is responsible for administer-
ing permit applications for the use of pesticides in State
waters.
In an attempt to minimize pesticide use in our waters,
we have explored the use of alternative methods. During
the summer of 1975, we participated in a weed harvesting
project which took place on Lake Bomoseen in Castleton,
Vermont. Large harvesters were used to reap and dispose of
over 100 acres of weed growth. The results are promising
and it is hopeful that we may participate in an expanded
program in 1976.
Table 3 summarizes the State's water quality inven-
tory including non-segmented river miles which are those
river miles upstream of the upper-most discharges in a given
basin. It has been assumed for the purposes of this report
that all non-segmented river miles are currently meeting
water quality standards since these waters are not receiving
any pollution discharge and non-point problems are minor.
On the basis of the information reported in Table 3,
Vermont has approximately 5,000 miles of streams and
rivers. Forty-three percent (2,100 miles) of these stream/
river miles have drainage areas of 10 square miles or greater.
Seventy-eight percent (3,800 miles) are non-segmented river
miles and twenty-two percent are segmented. Currently, 62
percent of the segmented river miles are meeting Class B
standards with an additional 20 percent expected to meet
them by 1983. This will increase from ninety-two percent
to ninety-six percent the total miles meeting Class B
standards.
A-202
-------
APPENDIX A
Deerfield
Connecticut
TABLE 3
STATE OF VERMONT 305(b) WATER QUALITY INVENTORY SUMMARY
Basin
Battenkill
Walloomsac
Hoosic
Poultney
Mettawee
Otter Creek
Little Otter
Creek
Lewis Creek
Lake
Champlain
Missisquoi
River
Lamoille
River
Winooski River
White River
Ottauquechee
Black
West, Williams
Saxtons
Total
No, miles
1 223
2 176
3 467
4 116
&5
6 245
7 412
8 599
9 452
10 244
11 341
with drainage
area of 10
square miles
or greater
90
91
317
54
153
183
255
147
110
167
Total seg-
mented miles'
46
44
83
25
88
90
115
69
65
76
Total sag-
now mooting
Class B (fish-
able, swim-
mablo)
25
36
70
19
61
21
72
54
19
71
monted miles
expected to
meet Class B
by 1983
43
40
76
20
82
69
95
59
38
74
Total seg-
mented miles
now meeting
State WQ stds.
27
38
77
23
20
14
85
59
37
74
Total seg-
mented miles
now not
meeting state
WQ stds.
19
6
6
2
67
70
30
10
28
2
Total non-
segmented
miles*"
177
132
384
91
157
322
484
383
179
265
now meeting
Class B (fish-
able, swim-
mablel
202
168
454
110
218
343
556
437
198
336
expected
to meet
Class B by
1983
220
172
460
111
239
391
579
442
217
339
12 155
13 679
& 16
65
152
34
238
24
153
34
170
16
172
18
66
121
441
'Segmented miles: River miles affected by municipal and industrial discharges.
"Non-segmented miles: River miles without polluting discharges and assumed to be meeting water quality standards.
145
594
155
611
Stevens, Wells
Waits,
Ompompanoosuc
Passumpsic
L. Memphremagog
Black
Barton, Clyde
Total
% of total
miles
14 271 114
15 315 142
17 241 104
4,936 2,144
43
16
47
67
1,103
22
6
20
35
686
14
12
28
61
901
18
6
25
35
708
14
10
22
32
388
8
255
268
174
3,833
78
261
288
209
4,519
92
267
296
235
4,734
96
A-203
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APPENDIX A
Summary - State of Virginia
Complete copies of the State of
Virginia 305(b) Report can be
obtained from the State agency listed
below:
Virginia State Water Control Board
P.O.Box 11143
Richmond, VA 23230
A-205
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APPENDIX A
Summary
Virginia is a water-rich State with nine major river
systems, or basins, totaling over 27,000 miles of streams
and over 500 square miles of coastal wetlands and
embayments. Water pollution control is made complex by
estuarine characteristics, sensitivity of shellfish areas and
the relatively low flows of many streams. High water
quality and absence of significant pollution problems, in
except relatively few areas of the State, reflect a long-
standing and aggressive water pollution control program.
Stream Segment Inventory
In 1973, the Virginia State Water Control Board
(SWCB) prepared an inventory and provisional classification
of 148 stream segments of interest for pollution control in
its submittal of the State Continuing Planning Process,
pursuant to Section 303(e) of the Federal Water Pollution
Control Act of 1972. These segments include:
• 69 segments that should be able to meet water
quality standards using point source controls as
required by Congress to be available by 1977.
These were designated as "effluent-limited" seg-
ments.
• 79 segments where more stringent controls
might be required to meet standards, or where
new sources might threaten to degrade water
quality. These were designated as "water quality
limited" segments.
The stream segments were reviewed and updated, and
a discussion of each segment can be found in the river basin
chapters of the report.
Figure 1 displays the stream segment classification for
the State of Virginia. Also shown is the status of the
individual stream segments relative to the 305(b) (1) (B)
criteria* for the years 1975 and 1983. As can be seen, the
total number of streams in 1975 not meeting the criteria as
compared to those that are, is not excessively larg". A point
to remember is that these segments were defined in areas of
interest for pollution control. With this point in nind and
the fact that these were defined in 1973 and that Virginia
has had an aggressive pollution control program, 87 (58.8
percent) of the segments are not meeting 305 (b) (1) (B)
criteria in 1975. However, it is projected that because of
pollution control projects now underway and planned that
97 segments (65.5 percent) will meet the criteria by the
year 1977.
"This is defined as "the extent to which all navigable wa-
ters . . . provide for the protection and propagation of a
balanced population of shellfish, fish and wildlife, and
allow recreational activities in and on the water."
By 1983, as Figure 1 shows, it is projected that two
segments may not meet the objectives of the Act. One of
these segments (Number 1), the North Fork Holston River,
has a mercury and dissolved solids pollution problem.
Average total dissolved solids exceed 500 mg/l as a result
of discharges from natural salt springs and an abandoned
industrial plant which utilized the Solvay and electrolytic
chlorine processes for the production of soda ash, chlorine
and related products. Mercury deposits from the plant in
the river sediments continue to be absorbed by fish beyond
Food and Drug Administration limits. Total dissolved solids
and mercury concentrations in the river should decrease
with time, but again it is difficult to predict if water quality
standards and the national goal of the Act will be met by
1983 by such a natural decay process. However, investiga-
tions have been initiated to determine what can be done to
alleviate the problem.**
Contrary Creek (Number 2, Figure 1) is subject to
pollution by non-point sources containing high concentra-
tions of dissolved metals from three inactive mines and
their spoil piles. The pyrite-laden acid waste is leaching into
Contrary Creek. The SWCB has received an EPA Demon-
stration Grant to be used in reclaiming the mine waste areas
and abating the water quality problem. A feasibility study
is also being developed to address the dissolved metals
problem. Because of the complexity of the problem, it is
difficult to project a date for complying with the national
goals of the Act. Thus, the segment is qualified as possibly
not meeting the 1983 national goal.
Table 1 is another analysis of the segment classifica-
tion of Virginia streams as compared to stream miles and
the 305(b) (1) (B) criteria. The total stream miles in each of
Virginia's nine river basins is compared to the national goal
of the Act for the years 1975, 1977 and 1983. The table
shows of the total 27,240 miles of the streams only 2,288.2
miles (8.4 percent) are not presently (1975) meeting the
criteria of the Act. In 1977, this is reduced to 1,430.9 miles
(5.2 percent) and in 1983 only 90.5 miles of stream or 0.3
percent of the total 27,240 miles may not meet the
national goal. These areas were previously discussed above.
The data displayed in Table 1 are indicative of Virginia's
aggressive pollution control programs being administered
through Federal and State grant programs. Pollution prob-
lems are, without exception, limited to discrete stream
segments, generally not more than a few miles of stream.
Pollution abatement projects under construction by munici-
palities or called for in the National Pollutant Discharge
Elimination System (NPDES) should eliminate most of
these problems within the next five to eight years.
**Section 115 ("In-place Toxic Pollutants") of PL 92-500
provides that the EPA Administrator is to identify the loca-
tion of in-place pollutants (emphasis on toxic pollutants) in
the Nation's waterways, and that acting through the Secre-
tary of the Army, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, is to
make contracts for the removal and disposal of such materi-
als. PL 92-500 authorized $15 million to be appropriated to
carry out the provisions of this section.
A-206
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FIGURE 1
STREAM SEGMENTS NOT MEETING 305 (b) (1) (B) CRITERIA IN 1975 AND 1983
ro
o
RIVER BASINS SEGMENT CLASSIFICATION
FO* THE
STATE OF VIRGINIA
' 30S (b) (1) (B) CRITERIA - NAVIGABLE WATER SHALL BE Of THE QUALITY TO PROVIDE FOR THE PROTECTION AND PROPAGATION OF A
BALANCED POPULATION OP SHELLFISH. FISH. AND WILDLIFE. AND ALLOW RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES IN AND
ON THE WATER.
TJ
TJ
m
z
D
X
-------
APPENDIX A
TABLE 1
SUMMARY OF VIRGINIA STREAM MILES NOT MEETING 305(b) (1)(B) CRITERIA
1975
1977
1983
Basin
*Potomac-Shenandoah
James
Rappahannock
Roanoke
Chowan-Dismal Swamp
Tennessee and Big Sandy
Small coastal basins
and Chesapeake Bay
York
New
Total
Total stream
miles in basin
3,430
5,560
2,190
4,550
2,680
4,140
860
2,040
1,790
27,240
Stream miles
not meeting
criteria
278.0
292.0
168.6
255.0
329.3
424.4
110.5
251.0
179.4
2,288.2
%of
total
8.1
5.2
7.7
5.6
12.3
10.2
12.8
12.3
10.0
8.4
Stream miles
not meeting
criteria
21.1
217.8
28.6
183.9
176.6
336.2
104.5
233.5
128.7
1,430.9
%of
total
0.6
3.9
1.3
4.0
6.6
8.1
12.1
11.4
7.2
5.2
Stream miles
not meeting
criteria
0
0
0
0
0
81.0
0
9.5
0
90.5
%of
total
0
0
0
0
0
2.0
0
0.5
0
0.3
'This report does not address the main stem of the Potomac River, only those streams located in Virginia are included.
Source: Virginia State Water Control Board.
Pollution Control Program Results
High water quality and absence of significant pollu-
tion problems reflect a long-standing and aggressive water
pollution control program in Virginia. Total pounds of
pollutants (BOD5 and suspended solids) from municipali-
ties, including their connected industrial load, have declined
consistently for the past few years despite continued
population and industrial growth. At the end of 1975 these
stood at approximately 120,000 Ibs/day and 100,00 Ibs/
day for BOD5 and suspended solids, respectively, as
compared to maximum monthly averages of approximately
237,000 Ibs/day (BOD5) and 153,000 Ibs/day (SS) in
earlier years (see Chapter 11-NPDES). Almost all Virginia
communities have sewage treatment and most have secon-
dary or higher levels of treatment. Phosphate removal has
been obtained at six existing plants through the use of
"interim" chemical addition systems (generally required by
the SWCB) resulting in a reduction in phosphorus discharge
of 5,000-6,000 pounds. All industrial plants have, under
Virginia's permit system, installed waste treatment systems
and most are relatively effective. At the end of 1975, these
permits allowed a total BOD5 discharge of approximately
354,000 Ibs/day and call for a reduction to approximately
140,000 Ibs/day in the future (1977-1980).
Mining Waste Discharges
Virginia has extensive soft coal resources in four of
its southwestern counties (Buchanan, Dickenson, Russell
and Wise). All major operating mines are under discharge
permits (75) and ten hold no-discharge permits issued by
the SWCB. No significant water pollution control problems
are associated with either active or worked out deep mines.
A-208
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APPENDIX A
Agriculture Waste Discharges
Waste discharges from agriculture have been control-
led to a significant degree through treatment of wastes by
lagoons, controlled livestock access to streams in coastal
shellfish waters, and through participation in Soil Conserva-
tion Service programs.
Federal Facilities Discharges
Waste discharges from Federal facilities are estimated
at about five percent of total municipal loads. However, the
Commonwealth has been unable to obtain reliable informa-
tion on waste treatment practices at Federal installations.
Vessel Discharges
The State has approximately 11,600 registered vessels
and its Hampton Roads and naval facility ports, visited by
an estimated 3,900 vessels, are among the greatest in the
world. The State has adopted regulations governing the
disposal of vessel wastes; however, the unwillingness or
inability of the United State Coast Guard to promulgate
regulations has muted the efforts of the State.
Combined Sewers
Virginia's older communities (14 signigicant problem
areas) have combined sewer systems in portions of their
service areas. These systems allow periodic discharge of
significant quantities of untreated sewage and are partially
responsible for degraded water quality in adjacent or
downstream waters. The SWCB has worked with these
communities over the years in their attempt to minimize
the problem. At the present time, the three major areas
(cities of Alexandria, Lynchburg, and Richmond) have been
recommended for grant assistance to make feasibility
studies to determine the most cost-effective methods to
eliminate and control the problem.
Oil and Hazardous Material Spills
During 1975, the SWCB received 322 reports of oil
pollution in Virginia. The reports involved a total spillage of
366,982 gallons. The United States Coast Guard (Hampton
Roads) received an additional 566 spill reports in Virginia
waters during calendar year 1975. These spills involved
184,621 gallons of petroleum product. There were 21
hazardous chemical spills during 1975 involving 40,050
pounds and 47,049 gallons of material.
Non-point Source Urban Pollution
There is a demonstrated significant problem in only
one area of the State (the Occoquan Watershed in the
Washington metropolitan area), although the problem may
also be a contributing factor to water quality deterioration
in the Potomac estuary downstream from the Washington
metropolitan area. Nutrient removal systems are under con-
struction at those points at which a cause-effect relativity
has been established.
Pesticides
In 1973, the SWCB initiated a seasonal pesticide
monitoring program consisting of about 150 stations
throughout Virginia. Stations were located at suspect or
potential problem areas. Although pesticides are used
extensively there is little evidence that other than relatively
few localized problems exist.
In 1975 an unusual problem became apparent when it
was discovered that toxic pesticide ingredient, Kepone, was
being discharged to the Hopewell Sewage Treatment Plant
from an industrial discharger. This and other incidents
caused the closing of the lower James River by the Gover-
nor of Virginia for fishing and other uses.
The Kepone controversy is being investigated through
Federal hearings and the SWBC is cooperating with the
Governor's Kepone Task Force to gather information on
the extent of the hazard. Special river surveys are being
performed to determine the concentration and distribution
of Kepone in the estuarine waters and sediments. Observa-
tion wells are being monitored to determine the distribu-
tion, concentration and transport of Kepone in the ground-
water. Surveys of selected streams are being performed
during the rainfall-runoff events to determine the concen-
tration of Kepone in the water and thus the extent to
which Kepone was carried by wind away from its source to
surrounding land areas. Fish in the estuary are also being
studied to determine the concentration of Kepone in their
tissues and this information along with information from
the sediment samples will provide the Task Force with an
analysis of the extent to which Kepone has been taken up
in the food chain. All of these surveys combined will enable
the Task Force to make an evaluation of the extent of the
hazard, if any, that is present and to decide upon the prop-
er measures necessary to minimize any hazards that may
exist.
Fish Kills
During 1975, 168 fish kills were reported in Virignia's
waters. These represent not only pollution-caused fish kills
but also natural kills as well as kills occurring in private
ponds, in most cases resulting from nutrient enrichment
from livestock and fertilizer runoff.
Approximately 15 percent of Virginia's fish kills are
pollution related. The majority of these kills are isolated
incidents resulting from one-time spills, accidents, or other
mishaps occurring throughout the State's nine major river
basins.
A-209
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APPENDIX A
In-Place Pollutants
Toxic qualities of in-place pollutants are recognized
in only four areas of Virginia (Hopewell, North Folk
Holston, Elizabeth River and Contrary Creek). Programs for
eliminating the problems are being investigated.
Sediment/Turbidity
Sediment discharges have a physical effect in some
reservoirs, and are detrimental to the ecology of upper
estuarine areas of the major river basins, but there are
inadequate data to quantify the effects. Turbidity problems
have been found in Levisa Fork and those southwest
Virginia basins below coal mines from high settleable solids
concentrations. Swift Creek Reservoir near Richmond is the
subject of a special study to quantify the turbidity problem
there. There are no data for other parts of the State which
would indicate problems.
Basin Water Quality Trends
Analysis of the SWCB ambient water quality network
data were performed for each river basin in Virginia in an
attempt to determine water quality trends. The data were
compared for two time periods, 1968-71 and 1972-75, to
reference levels chosen to reflect those levels that would
protect aquatic life or the public health. From the
interpretation of these analyses, water quality trends can be
determined.
Potomac-Shenendoah Basin
With the exception of an increase in certain nutrients,
the general water quality in the Potomac-Shenandoah Basin
in Virginia is quite good. Trends of improving water quality
have appeared for the following water quality parameters:
Dissolved oxygen, pH, fecal coliform bacteria, total
phosphate and ammonia. Total orthophosphate, nitrate and
Kjeldahl nitrogen showed varying degrees of worsening
trends which are not limited to isolate areas.
James Basin
With the exception of certain notable water quality
problem areas, the water quality in the James River Basin is
good. Improving trends have appeared for the following
water quality parameters: Dissolved oxygen, pH, fecal and
total coliform bacteria, total phosphate, total nitrate, total
Kjeldahl nitrogen and ammonia.
Water temperature, suspended solids, nitrites and
chlorides showed slight trends of improvement over
conditions that are minoi initially. Orthophosphates were
the pollutants that consistently appeared with worsening
trends and these are confined to a few areas of the basin.
Rappahannock Basin
Except for the Fredericksburg area, the water quality
in the Rappanannock River Basin is very good. Trends of
improving water quality have appeared for the following
water quality parameters: Fecal and total coliforms, total
Kjeldahl nitrogen, ammonia and total phosphate. Small
improving trends are associated with dissolved oxygen, pH
and water temperature which had minor reference level
"violations" for both time periods.
Orthophosphates, nitrites and nitrates showed
worsening trends in limited areas of the basin.
Roanoke Basin
Fecal coliform bacteria, pH, total phosphate, am-
monia and total Kjeldahl nitrogen show an improving water
quality trend in the Roanoke River Basin. Orthophosphate
and suspended solids show a slight worsening trend.
Dissolved oxygen and water temperature did not show any
appreciable change for the two time period comparisons.
Chowan-Dismal Swamp Basins
Dissolved oxygen, pH and fecal coliform bacteria
tend to show an improving trend for the 1972-75 time
period. Nutrients appear to have a worsening trend. Total
orthophosphate, phosphate and Kjeldahl nitrogen reference
level "violations" increased for the more recent time
period. However, many areas in the basin have high nutrient
values because of natural swamp conditions.
Tennessee-Big Sandy Basin
Trends of improving water quality exist in the
Tennessee-Big Sandy River Basin for the following water
quality parameters: Dissolved oxygen, fecal coliform
bacteria, water temperature, pH, suspended solids, total
phosphate, total Kjeldahl nitrogen and chlorides.
Slightly worsening trends for orthosphosphates,
ammonia and nitrate occurred, but these small increases in
the level of the pollutants are dwarfed by the substantial
improvements in the eight parameters listed above.
Small Coastal Basins and Chesapeake Bay
Trends of improving water quality have appeared for
the following water quality parameters: Total suspended
solids, pH, fecal and total coliform bacteria, total
phosphate, total Kjeldahl nitrogen and ammonia.
Dissolved oxygen, water temperature, nitrate and
nitrite show slight but almost insignificant worsening
trends. Orthophosphate was the pollutant that consistently
showed up with a worsening trend confined to a few areas
of the basin.
A-210
-------
APPENDIX A
York Basin
In general, the western headwaters of the York River
Basin appear to be of excellent water quality, with some
water quality problems evidenced in the Pamunkey,
Mattaponi and York Rivers. Trends of improving water
quality appeared for the following parameters: Dissolved
oxygen, pH, fecal coliform bacteria and total Kjeldahl
nitrogen.
Orthosphosphates, nitrates, nitrites and ammonia
show worsening trends in the Basin. However, the nitrate
and nitrite trends are not as significant as those for
orthophosphates.
New Basin
In the New River Basin, trends of improving water
quality appear for the following parameters: Suspended
solids, pH, fecal coliform bacteria, total phosphate and
total Kjeldahl nitrogen. Dissolved oxygen and water
temperature are more or less at status quo with few
"violations" of reference levels in both time periods.
There is a significant worsening trend for ortho-
phosphates possibly indicating a greater amount of runoff
from agricultural areas.
Data Base
Conclusions as to water quality and water quality
trends can be no better than the data base. The conclusions
of this report are based on the SWCB staff's investigations,
and analyses and interpretations of:
1. Ambient monitoring of water quality by the
SWCB and the State Health Department of
Shellfish Sanitation;
2. Special studies;
3. Biological monitoring;
4. Groundwater monitoring;
5. Permit compliance monitoring;
6. Pollution complaints — including fish kills and
oil and hazardous chemical spill investigations;
7. Mathematical models; and
8. Stream gaging and water level recording.
The ambient water quality data base is sufficient for
analyzing the water quality in Virginia's streams. However,
stream flow is non-existent for this data base at the present
time, and therefore stream loadings of various pollutants
are very difficult to obtain. System software should be
developed to incorporate the average daily stream flows
from the United States Geological Survey stream gaging
network, of which the SWCB is a contributing agency, into
the STOrage and RETrieved (STORET) data base. This
addition would enhance the data analyses.
The interpretations of the permit compliance
monitoring and pollution complaints data bases were used
as background for discussion. Mathematical modeling,
although not used specifically in this exposition, is used by
the SWBC to issue NPDES permits and for a better under-
standing of the river systems in Virginia.
Although there may be some discontinuities in the
data base, the SWCB will attempt to close these as
experience and utilization of the various data bases deem
necessary.
A-211
-------
APPENDIX A
Summary - Virgin Islands
Complete copies of the 305(b) Report
for the Virgin Islands can be obtained
from the State agency listed below:
Division of Natural Resources Manage-
ment
Department of Conservation and Cul-
tural Affairs
Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas, VI 00801
A-213
-------
APPENDIX A
Summary
This report was prepared by the Division of Natural
Resources Management, Virgin Islands Department of
Conservation and Cultural Affairs with data and other
inputs secured by its monitoring program and those of
other agencies of the Virgin Islands Government. It was
prepared as required by Section 305(b) of the 1972 Federal
Water Pollution Control Act Amendments (Public Law
92-500) which calls for a report by each State assessing the
water quality of all navigable waters and the waters of the
contiguous zone.
Estimated cost for control actions to eliminate all
pollution of the coastal waters of the Virgin Islands is:
Segment A - St. Thomas $18,404,436
Segment B - St. John 1,920,000
Segment C - St. Croix 36,703,649
$57,028,085
All waters of the Virgin Islands are classified as
effluent-limited.
The Virgin Islands are in STORET Basin No. 19. The
basin has been broken down into three segments (Figure 1)
as follows:
1. Segment A — St. Thomas, 52.8 miles of shoreline
2. Segment B - St. John, 49.7 miles of shoreline.
3. Segmert C — St. Croix, 70.3 miles of shoreline.
All of the waters in Segments A, B, and C are
maintained in compliance with the Virgin Islands' Water
Quality Standards.
Monitoring information contained in Appendix B of
the report shows that water quality has improved in both
Segments A and C as a result of water pollution control
programs over the last five years. The most improvement
has occurred in the harbor of Charlotte Amalie in Segment
"A" This is a result of the construction of the Charlotte
Amalie Sewerage System, which removed two-and-a-half
million gallons per day of raw sewage from the waters of
the harbor. Three interceptors, two force mains and two
pumping stations are utilized to collect and transport
sewage, previously discharged to the harbor, to a primary
sewage treatment plant. The treated effluent is discharged
through an ocean outfall, 2,650 feet from shore at a depth
of seventy feet.
Fecal coliform counts have fallen from a high of
10,000 per 100 ml to less than 70 per 100 ml. Average
Secchi depth reading have increased from less than three
meters to four meters. Dissolved oxygen levels have
increased from an average of 6.0 PPM to an average of 6.6
PPM.
Water quality monitoring for Segment B indicates
that water quality which was previously excellent in this
segment, has not changed.
In Segment C, the greatest increase in water quality
has occurred along the south shore of St. Croix.
Dredging activities for developing and maintaining
shipping channels to provide access to facilities owned by
Hess Oil Virgin Islands Corporation in 1966-67 and Harvey
Alumina Virgin Islands Corporation in 1963-64, distributed
fine-grained clay deposits in a manner that caused extreme
turbidity and excessive pollution along 13.8 miles, or about
47 percent, of the south coastline of the island. Enumera-
tion of inorganic suspended solids, most assumed to be
particles of clay, showed these particles exceeded densities
of 150,000,000 per liter. Water clarity was reduced as much
as 95 percent in many places in these turbid reaches. These
conditions caused severe pollution that was almost cata-
stropic in scope: Pollution extended seaward from the
shore up to a distance estimated to be at least one mile;
reefs were not readily visible, thus endangering navigation;
recreational values were totally lost; seafood animals, once
abundant, were decimated to unharvestable levels; and land
values were seriously reduced. These turbid waters termina-
ted abruptly at Sandy Point near the southwest cape of St.
Croix, where there was a dramatic change in water clarity.
Water quality adjacent to the industrial complex on
the south shore of St. Croix is presently good. Average
values for all water quality parameters in this area are
approximately equal to average values observed in clean
waters elsewhere. Levels of most parameters also fall within
the ranges observed elsewhere.
Waters outside areas of municipal and industrial
development are generally clean. Quality of these waters is
essentially identical around all three islands. Temperature
averages 28.2°C (82.8°F). Dissolved oxygen varies from 4.4
to 8.9 mg/l. The mean dissolved oxygen level of 6.8 mg/l is
well within the 5.5 mg/l required by the approved
Federal-State Water Quality Standards. In Trunk Bay, St.
John—where the standards require that natural conditions
be maintained—the dissolved oxygen level is 6.5 mg/l. The
prevailing total and fecal coliform levels are below 0.5
organisms per 100 ml. Nitrate and total nitrogen levels
average 0.07 mg/l and total organic carbon averages 9.7
mg/l. Dissolved copper, cadmium, chromium and lead levels
are less than 100 mg/l. Zinc and aluminum levels are
approximately 300 mg/l. Mercury averages only 0.23 mg/l.
Average levels of copper, cadmium, zinc, chromium, lead
and mercury in bottom sediments are 13.5, 13.1, 20.0, 7.6,
38.4 and 0.022 mg/kg, respectively (based on dry weight).
In addition benthic communities have recovered
substantially from past damages.
All reefs between Hess and Sandy Point were
adversely affected by high turbidity and suspended and
settling sediment caused by dredging. However, all of these
reefs have begun to recover although recovery is being
inhibited by the continued presence of high concentrations
of sediment in the nearshore waters.
The following sources of pollution of Southshore
waters were also eliminated or modified.
1. Waters from the V.I. Rum Distillery, Ltd.
which were previously discharged at the shore-
line were piped 3,000 feet from shore. Here the
prevailing currents now carry the brown
colored "lees" parrallel to shore until they are
dissipated.
A-214
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APPENDIX A
ATLANTIC
-N-
FIGURE 1
BASIN SEGMENTS IN
THE VIRGIN ISLANDS
CARIBBEAN
SEA
SCALE
1012345 MILES
SEGMENT "C"
ST. CROIX
Frcdcrihstcd
A-215
-------
APPENDIX A
2. The open burning dump and marine landfill was
converted into a sanitary landfill. This
eliminated the discharge of tin cans, bottles and
other floatables, as well as leachings from the
dump as sources of pollution.
3. Martin-Marietta Alumina discharges of hot salt-
water from both their process cooling and
desalting plants were eliminated by the installa-
tion of a nineteen-acre cooling pond. Changing
the main points of discharge to the deeper
water of their channel from the shallow shore-
line on the western end of their property has
also eliminated the constant reintrainment of
clay fines deposited by the previous dredging
operations, and those discharged to shore water
by run off during heavy rains.
4. The construction of a primary sewage treat-
ment plant and a 9,000-foot ocean outfall
removed the discharge of raw sewage from
inshore waters.
Present cause of the high turbidity and suspended and
settling sediment near shore (TerEco Corporation 1973), is
the re-intrainment of clay fines by wave action. These clay
particles are the result of erosion of clay soils in the
immediate shore areas by wave action as well as stormwater
runoff. Additionally, there is leaching by wave action of the
lower seaward side of the dredge—spoil settling basin on the
western end of Cane Garden Bay constructed by Hess
during their last dredging operations. The walls of the basin
and jetty are protected by large boulders, but these do not
prevent leaching of the fine material by wave action. It is
expected that leaching of these fines will gradually cease.
The discharge of 300,000 GPD of raw sewage to
Frederiksted Harbor ceased in November 1974 with the
activation of the Strand Street Interceptor and the
Frederiksted Pumping Station and Force Main. The sewage
is now receiving treatment at the St. Croix Sewage
Treatment Plant located at Krause Lagoon. Water quality in
the harbor, which was previously good has not changed.
However, the slight sewage slick from the two former dis-
charges can no longer be seen.
No progress has been made in reducing the moderate
pollution of Christiansted Harbor. However construction of
the system of interceptors, force mains, and pumping
stations to collect and transport all sewage generated by the
town to the St. Croix Sewage Treatment Plant is underway.
Completion of this system is expected late in 1976.
A-216
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APPENDIX A
Summary - State of Washington
The Washington Department of
Ecology (DOE) produced a water
quality assessment of lakes (Volume
III) as its 1976 305(b) submission.
Volume III is to be used in conjunc-
tion with the two water quality status
volumes submitted in 1975 to satisfy
the requirements of Section 305(b).
Complete copies of the State of Wash-
ington 305(b) Report can be obtained
from the State agency listed below:
Department of Ecology
P.O. Box 820
Olympia,WA 98504
A-217
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APPENDIX A
Executive Summary
The nearly 8,000 lakes, ponds, and reservoirs of
Washington provide water for irrigation, drinking supplies,
power, and a multitude of recreational activities. Prior to
1975, management of these lakes was on an informal basis
consisting of special studies to assess lake conditions
without an active effort to protect and preserve their
valuable roles.
It has always been implicitly implied that Washington
lakes should be allowed to evolve naturally, and not be
subjected to cultural eutrophication. This philosophy is
born out in the State Water Quality Standards, which state
that temperature, dissolved oxygen, and pH shall not
measurably change from natural conditions. Two events
have moved lake management into an active program in
Washington State: 1) Completion of reconnaissance survey
of 750 major Washington lakes by the United States
Geological Survey (USGS) and the Department of Ecology;
and 2) the establishment of a lake rehabilitation program
by the Department of Ecology.
The reconnaissance survey, now published as "Recon-
naissance Data on Lakes in Washington", Water Supply
Bulletin 43 (Bortleson, et al., 1976), provides the
preliminary information essential to guide the preservation
of lakes and lake restoration. The results of the survey
showed lakes in the eastern half of the State tended to be
more eutrophic. This was reflected in the major nutrient
levels and water clarity. For example, total phosphorus
concentrations exceeding 0.020 mg/1 were found in 74
percent of eastside lakes and in only 27 percent of westside
lakes. Water clarity, measured by Secchi disc, was less than
6 feet in 25 percent of western Washington lakes, but in 49
percent of eastern Washington lakes.
An examination of Table 1 shows that water clarity
(Secchi disc less than 6 feet) is the most prevalent problem
closely followed by oxygen depletion in the bottom waters
(oxygen concentration less than ten percent of saturation).
Visual observations by USGS researchers pinpointed 80
lakes in which the entire bottom was covered by submerged
vegetation and 154 lakes which had dense algal blooms at
the time of sampling.
The Department of Ecology has set up a matching
grant program (50-50 split) under the Washington Future
Program to help local entities to restore the water quality
of lakes. Grants to determine the feasibility of rehabilitat-
ing lakes have been awarded to six projects while 13
projects are under consideration for actual implementation
of construction. The availability of Federal funds will
determine, to a large extent, if any of these projects will be
undertaken. Unfortunately, the EPA has not seen the need
to allocate the $300 million available under Section 314 of
Public Law 92-500, but rather has released only $19 million
for nationwide distribution under Section 104h. During
this period, the Department of Ecology has available $7.35
million for restoration projects in Washington State alone.
In conclusion, the assessment of lake water quality
has identified major problem areas to be water clarity,
dissolved oxygen, algal blooms, and macrophyte infesta-
tions. The next step is to identify those lakes that have
been impacted by pollution and move to rehabilitate them.
Although Table 1 suggests that many problem lakes exist,
many of the lakes are actually in a natural state and merely
at an advanced stage of succession. Since only four lakes are
subject to treated sewage effluent, nonpoint pollution is the
principal cause of lake degradation.
A-218
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APPENDIX A
TABLE 1
DISTRIBUTION OF LAKE QUALITY PROBLEMS IN WASHINGTON STATE
Number of Problem Lakes
Region
1
1
1
1
1
1
2
2
3
3
3
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
5
5
5
5
5
5
6
6
6
6
6
6
6
6
7
7
7
State total
County
Clallam
Jefferson
Island
San Jaun
Skagit
Whatcom
King
Snohomish
Kitsap
Mason
Pierce
Clark
Cowlitz
Grays Harbor
Lewis
Pacific
Skamania
Thurston
Chelan
Ferry
Kittitas
Klickitat
Okanogan
Yakima
Adams
Benton
Douglas
Franklin
Grant
Lincoln
Walla Wai la
Whitman
Pend Oreille
Spokane
Stevens
Water clarity
1
2
4
2
5
7
21
5
2
2
18
3
3
1
1
3
5
12
2
1
-
2
8
g
15
2
7
14
32
34
4
9
6
19
1
258
Macrophytes
—
—
1
2
3
g
2
1
6
g
1
1
—
1
—
—
7
—
-
3
—
1
—
2
2
4
8
4
—
1
6
3
3
80
Algal blooms
1
2
3
2
6
5
g
5
2
2
10
2
—
1
—
1
3
4
4
2
1
—
10
2
4
—
5
7
ig
25
-
6
2
g
—
154
Oxygen depletion
4
5
4
2
6
8
35
30
2
3
21
3
1
1
1
—
1
12
4
3
—
—
30
-
3
—
5
-
13
8
—
—
8
16
18
247
A-219
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APPENDIX A
Summary - State of West Virginia
Complete copies of the State of West
Virginia 305(b) Report can be
obtained from the State agency listed
below:
Division of Water Resources
Department of Natural Resources
1201 Greenbrier Street
Charleston, WV 25311
A-221
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APPENDIX A
Introduction
This report was prepared by the West Virginia
Department of Natural Resources, Division of Water Re-
sources, pursuant to Section 305(b) (1) of the Federal
Water Pollution Control Act Amendments of 1972 (Public
Law 92-500). The report is an inventory of water quality in
the State and is submitted through the Administrator,
United States Environmental Protection Agency, for the
Congress. The chapter on the Ohio River was prepared by
ORSANCO at the request of the State of West Virginia.
Summary
Total and fecal coliform are in violation of State
standards in most segments of the State's waters. These
waters are generally designated for water recreation, water
supply and the propagation of aquatic life. Required
improvements in municipal and some industrial discharges
will minimize the fecal coliform levels in the river basin.
Non-point sources of total and fecal coliform bacteria will
be the primary problem in determining future compliance
with State standards.
The dissolved oxygen levels are of a good quality in
all river basins of the State except the segment of the
Kanawha River below Charleston, West Virginia. Math-
ematical calculations of stream loadings indicate that the
oxygen level of this stream segment may not meet State
standards during low flow conditions. However, the oxygen-
consuming compounds have been markedly reduced by
improvements in secondary treatment of industrial waste
sources and secondary municipal waste treatment.
Common indicators of water quality such as
temperature, dissolved solids, pH, acidity, alkalinity,
chlorides, sulfates, nitrates, and phosphorus are of good
quality throughout the year in most of the State's rivers.
One exception is drainage from the mining industry on the
Monongahela River and its three major tributaries; the
Cheat River, West Fork River, and Tygart Valley River.
Low pH values in violation of State standards and sulfates
which often exceed reference levels for water supplies are
characteristic in these streams.
The abandoned mine drainage problem persists in the
State, but a program plan has been initiated to study these
areas. Preparation of feasibility reports, and determining
the required engineering and initiation of the construction
work needed to control the mine drainage, will depend on
needed State and Federal funding.
Heavy metals and toxic substances are normally
below State standards. On occasion, cadmium, arsenic, and
lead have exceeded State standards. Total iron and
manganese exceed reference levels set for water supplies in
all major rivers of the State. The metals in the water do not
appear to be related to point sources, but more to urban
and rural runoff.
Suspended solids in the Big Sandy-Tug Fork,
Guyandotte, Kanawha, and Monongahela Basins appear to
be associated with the mining industry, road construction,
silviculture and urban runoff. Concentrations are generally
seasonal with high solids associated with high winter flows.
In the Potomac Basin, the suspended solids are
generally in an acceptably good quality range.
A-222
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APPENDIX A
Summary - State of Wisconsin
Complete copies of the State of
Wisconsin 305(b) Report can be
obtained from the State agency listed
below:
Department of Natural Resources
P.O. Box 7921
Madison, Wl 53707
A-223
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APPENDIX A
Summary
Wisconsin water quality during calendar year 1975
has been evaluated using information gained from basin
surveys, monthly sampling at selected locations and
detailed surveys conducted on streams receiving excessive
amounts of wastes from point sources. Representative
waterways in 19 basins have been rated as meeting State
standards, intermittently violating standards, or having
significant violations. Figure 1 shows the status of these
streams.
The 1983 goals of supporting fish and aquatic life and
providing recreational uses are met on 3,055 miles of the
3,360 miles of streams evaluated. This indicates that the
vast majority of Wisconsin's streams are of very high
quality. About 305 miles are degraded by point-source
pollutant discharges. It is estimated that 700 miles of
sample streams are affected by non-point sources such that
occasional standards violations occur. Some 500 miles of
small headwater streams not included in the sample are
degraded by point source discharges.
The ability of a stream to support aquatic life and
desired uses is dependent upon a variety of factors, both
natural and relating to human influences. Specific standards
exist only for parameters which have significant effects
upon aquatic life and are generally amenable to treat-
ment. Minimum standards have been established for dis-
solved oxygen, fecal coliform bacteria counts, temperature
and pH. Standards for other parameters effected primarily
by non-point source pollutants are expected to be adopted
in the near future.
Dissolved oxygen depletion occurs below many
Wisconsin municipalities and industries resulting from
discharges of organic pollutants. Serious problems result
during periods of high temperature and low flow on the
Upper Wisconsin, Lower Fox, Oconto, Peshtigo and
Flambeau Rivers from discharge of papermill wastes.
Oxygen depletion is also a serious problem during periods
of winter ice cover, especially on portions of the Wisconsin
River and Green Bay. Other waste sources cause oxygen
depletion though seldom to the extent seen on major paper
mill rivers. Most small municipal discharges, for example,
affect distances of streams averaging from two to seven
miles.
Bacterial contamination of Wisconsin streams by
point and non-point sources continues to be a problem as
indicated by fecal coliform counts taken during routine
monitoring. High counts of fecal coliform bacteria occur in
numerous situations. Wildlife populations, especially in
marshy areas, often cause elevated counts. Bacterial con-
tamination of the Rock River below the Horicon marsh, a
tremendous area for geese, is an example. More common
causes are inadequate disinfection at sewage treatment
plants, overflows or leakage from old or overloaded
municipal sanitary systems and losses from private sanitary
systems. Though high fecal coliform counts indicate con-
tamination, they do not necessarily mean that a public
health hazard exists. Fecal coliform bacteria are indicator
organisms whose presence in large numbers shows that the
probability of disease organisms being present is increased.
Violations of pH standards are uncommon and when
they occur, generally affect only localized areas around
outfalls. Violations of the pH standard were measured at
two of the primary monitoring stations during 1975.
Temperature problems are also very uncommon in
Wisconsin despite the relatively large number of electrical
generating plants located in the State. Studies of cooling
water discharges to Lake Michigan and the Mississippi River
have uncovered few instances of environmental harm.
Though thermal discharges to smaller water bodies are more
likely to cause serious water quality problems, existing
plants are believed to be providing adequate treatment. A
close watch is being kept on the growing electrical power
industry in Wisconsin.
Nutrient enrichment is a common problem especially
in the southern part of the State. All categories of pollutant
sources contribute to this problem. Municipal sewage
treatment plants discharging to streams flowing into Lakes
Michigan and Superior are required to provide phosphorus
removal. Facilities have been installed at existing plants to
meet this requirement and phosphorus loadings to the lakes
have been significantly reduced. Agricultural contributions
of phosphorus are reduced with improved land management
practices since phosphorus is adsorbed to soil particles and
is lost as soils are eroded. Loss of nitrogen is more difficult
to control since it more readily dissolves in water.
Suspended solids and nuisance growths of algae and
rooted aquatic plants cause aesthetic problems on many
streams that meet quality criteria established in State
standards. The more productive streams in southern and
eastern Wisconsin generally exhibit weed growth and algae
problems due in large part to availability of nutrients.
Sediment loadings depend on soil type, topography and
land use. Heavy loadings of suspended sediments occur in
southwest Wisconsin where slopes are steep and in northern
areas where extensive areas of red clay soils are found.
Serious aesthetic degradation occurs on some stream
segments immediately below waste discharges, notably
certain pulp and paper mills. A number of mills discharge
large amounts of solids which accumulate on river bottoms.
As these materials decompose, odorous gasses are produced
which at times lift matts of fibrous sludge to the surface
producing very objectionable aesthetic problems. Organisms
growing in polluted water such as slimes and sludgeworms
also cause aesthetic conditions that are objectionable to
most people. Water quality improvements noted below have
generated significant improvement in aesthetic conditions
on some major Wisconsin rivers.
Several types of hazardous materials discharged to
surface waters have reached dangerous levels in water or in
the tissues of aquatic organisms. A group of industrial
chemicals, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB), is an
important example. Levels of PCBs in fish taken from Lake
Michigan, Green Bay, Lake Pepin on the Mississippi River
A-224
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APPENDIX A
FIGURE 1
WATER QUALITY STATUS
OF WISCONSIN MAINSTEM STREAM
SEGMENTS
•:, •: i ' -' "• >
-.-.• » V. J ; v
\.?_^ ..J...:--r._ ") ':•;
SEGMENTS MEETING WATER QUALITY STANDARDS
SEGMENTS WITH INTERMITTENT STANDARDS VIOLATIONS
/ SEGMENTS WITH SIGNIFICANT STANDARDS VIOLATIONS
and the Fox River near Portage have exceeded tolerance
levels recommended by the Food and Drug Administration.
Sources of PCBs in Wisconsin include municipal treatment
plants, paper mills that recycle wastepaper, some aluminum
foundries, and fallout from the air. State legislation was
developed during 1975 to limit discharges of these
chemicals to surface waters.
Loss of pesticides to surface waters is a problem since
some of the chemicals used are accumulated in the food
chain causing changes in behavior, impaired reproduction
and, in some cases, death of predator species. Pesticides
that are allowed only limited use in Wisconsin include
ODD, endrin, aldrin, dieldrin, heptachlor, lindane, BHC and
alkyl mercury compounds. Use of DDT has been banned in
Wisconsin.
Mercury contamination constitutes a health problem
on sections of the Wisconsin, Chippewa, and Flambeau
Rivers as fish taken from these streams commonly exceed
A-225
-------
APPENDIX A
the tolerance level established by the Federal Food and
Drug Administration. Fishermen have been advised to limit
consumption of fish from these waters to one meal per
week. Another toxic metal problem is localized contamina-
tion of the Menominee River in Marinette by arsenic. The
company involved is studying improved process methods
and has upgraded chemical storage facilities.
During 1975, 188 spills of hazardous materials were
reported. Gasoline or oil were involved in 160 cases and 16
involved toxic materials. Most of the spills (102) occurred
at fixed facilities, while 33 involved autos or trucks and 19
were marine or railroad spills. One spill involved a pipeline.
Five pollution-caused fish kills were reported during
1975. Four were heavy kills involving game fish. Causes of
the kills were determined to be related to industrial
operations in three cases, discharge from a municipal
treatment plant in one case, and manure runoff from a
holding pond in another.
Most water quality improvement noted so far results
from programs existing before passage of PL 92-500. The
most obvious changes are aesthetic improvements resulting
from elimination of gross pollution. Reduction of solids
discharges from the St. Regis Paper Company at
Rhinelander is a prime example. Portions of the Fox River
have also exhibited aesthetic improvements as well as
apparent improvements in DO concentrations. Improve-
ments indicated by data from monthly monitoring over the
past ten years include decreases in fecal coliform counts on
the Wolf, Chippewa and Sugar Rivers, and apparent
improvements in nutrient loadings on the Rock and Fox
(Illinois) Rivers.
Wisconsin lakes have been classified according to their
trophic status. According to the scheme developed, 30
percent of the lakes are oligotrophic, 50 percent are
mesotrophic and 20 percent are eutrophic. Satellite photo-
imagery is beirig used to further refine the lake classifica-
tion system.
Abatement of most point-source pollution problems
is believed to be possible by 1983 if adequate funding is
provided for municipal construction and legislative support
is not withdrawn. Indeed, to back away from established
goals at this point would effectively penalize firms and
communities which have acted responsibly in meeting their
obligations.
The interim goal of best practicable treatment has
been met by 21 of Wisconsin's 73 major industrial
dischargers, 41 additional firms are expected to meet 1977
effluent limits, and 11 are expected to fail to meet the
1977 limits. Of the 557 municipalities discharging to
surface waters, 115 (21 percent) have treatment systems
capable of meeting 1977 standards. Secondary treatment
plants in 386 communities require upgrading or replace-
ment and 56 primary treatment plants need to be replaced
with more advanced systems. If 1983 goals are not
abandoned, support of fish and aquatic life is expected to
be attained on 98 percent of Wisconsin streams. One
percent will have occasional violations and the remaining
one percent will not meet standards because of background
conditions or irreversible cultural alterations. Problems
expected to remain include storm sewer discharges,
combined sewer overflows, uncontrolled urban and
agricultural runoff and some point source pollutant dis-
charges. Figures 2 and 3 show the projected status of
Wisconsin streams after attainment of 1983 goals.
Wicsonsin administrative programs have been very
successful in meeting the demands of the ambitious
program outlined in PL 92-500. The Wisconsin Pollution
Discharge Elimination System, the State permit program, is
the heart of the facilities management program. Permits
have been issued to 950 industries discharging to surface
waters and groundwater discharge permits for 350 dis-
chargers are presently being drafted. A total of 557
municipal dischargers have received permits. An enforce-
ment program is being developed to assure compliance with
permit limits while considering funding limitations. The
construction grants program has been very successful in
committing available Federal and State funds for treatment
plant construction and rehabilitation. The greatest delay
has been in completion of facilities planning requirements.
Approximately five and one-half years of work is required
for a municipality to complete this process and construct a
plant. The facilities planning process includes infiltration/
inflow analysis, sewer system evaluation, and a cost
effectiveness analysis which includes an assessment of
environmental effects of the project. The operator training
and certification program, an area of facilities management
that is becoming increasingly important as more complex
facilities are built, has been expanded in recent years.
Training courses are taught by Department district staff,
local vocational schools and the University of Wisconsin
Extension.
Water quality planning activities have been combined
for the next few years, focusing on Section 208 areawide
planning. Three agencies, the Southeast Wisconsin Regional
Planning Commission, the Fox Valley Water Quality Plan-
ning Agency and the Dane County Planning Commission
have been designated as areawide planning agencies. Plan-
ning for all nondesignated areas will be done by the
Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR).
Several types of monitoring and surveillance activities
provide the data base needed to conduct the State water
quality program. Compliance with permit conditions is
checked using self-monitoring reports submitted by facili-
ties operators. Periodic 24-hour surveys provide verification
of the accuracy of self-monitoring reports and allow district
engineers to advise operating personnel as to how plant
operation can be improved. Water quality surveillance
activities include monthly sampling at 51 stations through-
out the State, hourly sampling by automatic units at 11
locations on the Wisconsin and Fox Rivers, and detailed
surveys of each drainage basin every four years. Additional
detailed river surveys provide data needed to develop
mathematical models of rivers for which wasteload alloca-
tions are needed.
A-226
-------
APPENDIX A
FIGURE 2
WATER QUALITY PROJECTIONS
FOR WISCONSIN MAINSTEM STREAM
SEGMENTS
' SEGMENTS MEETING CURRENT WATER QUALITY STANDARDS
...•* SEGMENTS EXPECTED TO MEET CURRENT STANDARDS BY 1983
,' SEGMENTS EXPECTED TO HAVE OCCASIONAL STANDARDS
VIOLATIONS AFTER 1983
Wisconsin's inland take renewal program is attempting
to slow the ageing process of selcted lakes uisng innovative
new techniques. Feasibility studies are done by consultants
to determine if a lake is likely to respond to treatment.
Projects are being implemented on five Wisconsin lakes thus
far.
The objectives of Wisconsin's non-point source pollu-
tion control program are identification of pollutants,
determination of impacts on water quality, proposal of
remedial measures, evaluation of economic and social
impacts of such measures, education of the public, and
implementation of needed controls. The existing Soil
Conservation Service program is able to fulfill a large part
of the need for rural non-point source control, though their
A-227
-------
APPENDIX A
FIGURE 3
-.: -6
"f- WISCONSIN HEADWATER STREAMS
WITH POTENTIAL
WATER QUALITY PROBLEMS
O SEGMENTS EXPECTED TO MEET STANDARDS BY 1983
A SEGMENTS NOT EXPECTED TO MEET STANDARDS IN 1983
0 SEGMENTS EXPECTED TO MEET STANDARDS OVER PORTIONS OF THEIR LENGTH
. NO PREDICTION MADE
programs are applied on a voluntary basis only. The Board
of Soil and Water Conservation Districts will play an
important role in developing the State non-point source
program. The districts are participating in assessment of the
magnitude of non-point source problems, and will provide
needed local input in policy making.
Non-point source monitoring activities to date have
been concentrated on a few areas with very intensive
sampling for a wide range of pollutants. Projects are
currently being conducted in the urbanizing Menomonee
River basin. White Clay Lake in Shawano County, Washing-
ton County, and the red clay area of Ashland, Bayfield,
Douglas and Iron Counties. Monitoring is to be expanded in
1976 with DNR district staff doing non-point source
sampling instead of the normal basin surveys. Analysis of
information collected and development of non-point source
policies will be a major part of the Section 208 areawide
planning process. In this way, regulatory policies can be
A-228
-------
APPENDIX A
developed, based on inputs from many disciplines and full
public participation.
Nine municipal construction projects received Federal
funding during 1975 representing a total investment of $77
million. This brings the total investment in Federal projects
under PL 92-500 to $257 million for 21 facilities. State
financing has allowed completion of 375 projects since
1970 with the State grant share totaling $102,880,523.
Fiscal analysis of State grant programs indicates that a
backlog of $428 million will exist in 1983 if Federal
funding continues at the FY 1975 rate. If municipal needs
through 1983 are to be met, Wisconsin's annual appropria-
tion must be increased from $80 million to $100 million.
Costs for Wisconsin industries to meet 1977 standards
are estimated at $324 million in capital investment and $47
million in O&M (1972 dollars) according to EPA's Eco-
nomics of Clean Water—1973. A survey of Wisconsin indus-
tries during January of 1975 indicated few severe economic
impacts through 13 plant closings are projected, caused in
part by pollution control requirements. No closings of large
plants or substantial loss of employment is expected. Pre-
dicted environmental impacts of 1977 requirements include
production of an additional 332,000 tons per year of solid
wastes and a 4 percent increase in industry energy use.
A study of recreational use of small polluted and
clean streams was conducted during the summer of 1975.
Owners of property adjacent to streams and people found
using the streams were interviewed. Property owners were
found to use polluted streams an average of 20 days per
year per household and clean streams an average of 53 days
per year per household. During the survey, 32 recreational
users were encountered on clean streams and only six on
polluted streams. From survey results, it is estimated that
recreational benefits from improvement of small streams
will be 700 hours per year per stream mile.
General recommendations to Congress have been
developed by way of comments on the National Commis-
sion on Water Quality Staff Draft Report. Continuation of
1983 goals is urged to ensure continuing progress in our
cleanup efforts and equitable treatment of all dischargers.
Changes in the allocation formula for construction grants
funds are recommended to allow more equitable distribu-
tion of funds. Greater emphasis on good operation and
maintenance of treatment systems is needed and finally,
further decentralization of authority to the States and steps
to eliminate duplication of effort by the EPA and the
States is recommended. Several more specific recommen-
dations have been made by the Wisconsin staff (Section 3.4
of the report). It is our hope that decision makers will make
time to consider these recommendations in detail.
A-229
-------
APPENDIX A
Summary • State of Wyoming
Complete copies of the State of
Wyoming 305(b) Report can be
obtained from the State agency listed
below:
Water Quality Division
Department of Environmental Quality
State Office Building West
Cheyenne, WY 82002
A-231
-------
APPENDIX A
Summary
An overall assessment of water quality in Wyoming
would indicate the waters of the State are sustaining fish
and wildlife suitable for recreation. Best available data
indicate that there are very few pollution sources interfer-
ing with the production or maintenance of fish populations.
The State's water quality, based on 1975 data, is
characterized by a general coliform problem attributed
from natural runoff conditions and numerous municipal
point source discharges. The lack of Section 201 construc-
tion funding will be a contraint in alleviating this condition.
Currently, 13 segments are not meeting Wyoming's
Water Quality Standards, principally coliform. Eleven seg-
ments are not meeting the 1983 swimmable criteria as
defined. Five of these segments are questionable in meeting
the 1983 goals due to municipal wastewater discharges.
Only two of the eleven segments are expected to meet the
goals as a result of current municipal facility upgrading. It is
expected that four segments will not meet the swimmable
goal due in part to non-point source pollution.
The development of energy resources in Wyoming
poses a potential for degradation of water quality in most
areas of the State. Rapid population growth has created
many problems with existing waste treatment facilities.
New and expanded industrial development will continue to
bring municipal and industrial pollution problems to certain
regions. Increased resource development will necessitate
additional surveillance and monitoring activities for those
areas affected.
The major sources of non-point pollution in Wyoming
comes from surface runoff and irrigation return flows. By
comparison, other agricultural and industrial uses con-
tribute little to the degradation of surface water quality.
Produced water from oil field operations contribute salinity
to some water courses, although impact has not been to-
tally assessed. The State strategy for addressing control of
non-point source pollution is based upon the development
and implementation of best management practices which
will be identified through the Section 208 planning process.
Some potential for eutrophication is evident on
North Platte River segments below Casper, Lingle, and the
Laramie River. The Section 201 construction program
should help to eliminate this condition below Casper.
It is estimated that only half of the major industrial
facilities in the State are meeting best practical treatment
guidelines. Almost all of the oil well treaters have the
facility capability to meet the standards. As of January 1,
1976, only ten municipal facilities are meeting 1977
secondary treatment standards.
Social-economic benefits associated with enhance-
ment of degraded watercourses will be minimal, if any.
Primary policy issues for the Water Quality Division
remains with the preservation of existing high quality water
and control of pollution in areas impacted by energy
development.
* U. S. GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE : 1977 720-117/2006
A-232
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